Arlo is renowned for its wireless camera, boasting excellent performance and features. However, it comes at a premium price and requires a cloud storage service to access its advanced features. If you’re on a tight budget and looking for a cost-effective alternative to feature-packed outdoor security cameras, consider the Wyze outdoor camera. Wyze offers a more economical solution with products that are one-third of the cost of Arlo, yet with comparable performance.
Wyze Cam
Wyze is a brand that produces affordable smart home devices, including security cameras. Their cameras are designed to be easy to set up and use, and they offer a variety of features such as motion detection, two-way audio, and night vision. Wyze cameras are also compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, which allows for voice control and integration with other smart home devices.
There are currently several Wyze camera models available, including indoor and outdoor cameras. The indoor cameras include the Wyze Cam v3, Wyze Cam Pan, and Wyze Cam v2. The outdoor camera is called the Wyze Cam Outdoor.
One of the standout features of Wyze cameras is their price point. They are significantly less expensive than many other smart home cameras on the market, making them accessible to a wider range of consumers. Additionally, Wyze offers free cloud storage for 12-second video clips, as well as the option for local storage via a microSD card.
Overall, Wyze cameras are a popular choice for those looking for an affordable, yet functional, security camera option for their home.
Wyze Cam Outdoor
The Wyze Cam Outdoor is a compact outdoor security camera that has evolved into the Wyze Cam v3, featuring a built-in spotlight that transforms it into a mini floodlight camera. Wyze prides itself on offering the most affordable outdoor security cameras on the market without sacrificing quality or performance.
For a product that costs under $50, it’s definitely worth considering. Now, let’s compare the Wyze Cam with the highly sought-after Arlo Pro 4 wire-free camera.
Wyze cam v3 vs v2
The Wyze Cam v3 is the latest upgrade to its predecessor, the Wyze Cam v2. The v3 boasts brighter night video quality compared to the v2. The addition of the spotlight kit allows it to function similarly to other floodlight cameras, albeit with less brightness. For a brighter floodlight option, consider comparing the Arlo and Ring floodlight cameras.
Refer to Table 1 below for a comparison between versions 2 and 3. While there is not a significant difference in dimensions between the two versions, the v3 is slightly larger than the v2.
Starlight
The Wyze outdoor camera features a premium Starlight CMOS image sensor that delivers brighter performance in low-light conditions. This camera can provide significantly brighter video in ambient light, as it can absorb up to 25x more light than a standard CMOS image sensor.
The Starlight CMOS image sensor is generally considered to be superior to standard CMOS sensors when it comes to low light performance. This is because Starlight sensors are designed to be more sensitive to light, allowing them to capture better quality images in low light conditions. They are also able to reduce noise and produce sharper images, even in challenging lighting conditions. Overall, the use of a Starlight CMOS sensor can significantly improve the performance of a security camera, especially when it comes to nighttime surveillance.
Moreover, the latest Wyze Cam v3 has a wider aperture (f/1.6) than its predecessor, the Wyze Cam v2 (f/2.0). The wider the lens diaphragm opens, the more light it can capture, resulting in faster object capture.
Outdoor / Indoor
The Wyze Cam v3 is not only equipped with a Starlight image sensor and a wider aperture lens but also features a wider viewing angle. Its robust housing is designed to withstand varying weather conditions, boasting an IP65 weatherproof rating. Thanks to this rating, the camera can be upgraded by adding a floodlight kit, also known as the Wyze Cam spotlight bundle.
See more details on the following table 1 below.
Table 1. Wyze cam v3 vs v2
| Wyze version | Wyze Cam V3 | Wyze Cam V2 |
| Image sensor | CMOS Starlight image sensor | ½.9 inch CMOS image sensor |
| Resolution | 1080p full HD @20 fps | Full HD 2MP (1920 x 1080) |
| Lens | Glass lens with f/1.6 | 2.8 mm focal lens; f/2.0 |
| Field of view angle | 130 degree | 110 degree |
| Zoom | 8x digital zoom | 8x digital zoom |
| Night vision | Color with starlight night vision, B/W night vision with 4x 940nm, 4x 850nm IR LEDs | 4x IR LEDs 850nm range up to 30ft (10m) |
| Siren | Built-in mini siren | N/A |
| Audio | Simultaneous 2-way talk, built-in ECM microphone and 80dB speaker | Two way audio with built-in speaker and microphone |
| Storage | Available micro SD card slot up to 32GB with overwrite | Local 32GB micro SD Card with overwrite; Free 14-day AWS cloud storage |
| Wifi connectivity | Single band 802.11 b/g/n @2.4GHz | Single band 802.11 b/g/n @2.4GHz |
| Works with | Alexa; Google Assistant; | Alexa; Google Assistant; |
| Smart features | Motion or sound detection with video clip alerts to mobile device With customize detection zone and sound sensitivity settings, Smoke and CO alerts | Motion or sound detection with video clip alerts to mobile device With customize detection zone and sound sensitivity settings |
| Time lapse | Support | Support |
| Outdoor | Yes, IP65 weatherproof | No |
| Dimension | 2.1 in x 2.0 in x 2.3 in / (52 mm x 51 mm x 58.5 mm) | 2.20 in x 1.97 in x 1.97 in / (56 mm x 50mm x 50mm) |
Priced at under $50, how can this product capture the interest of budget-conscious consumers seeking affordable security cameras, especially when it costs one-third of the new Arlo Pro 4 wire-free camera? Let’s examine the specifications comparison between these two products.
Wyze Outdoor Camera vs Arlo
At first glance, most people would dismiss comparing the popular Arlo with the Wyze outdoor camera as absurd. While it’s true that the Wyze Cam Outdoor is not a comparable product to the Arlo, the real question is how much of a difference there is between the cheapest Wyze Cam v3 and the most popular Arlo camera.
It’s akin to the legend of ‘David vs Goliath’ in the world of security cameras. Refer to Table 2 below for a detailed comparison between the Goliath Arlo Pro 4 wire-free camera and the David Wyze floodlight camera – the latter being the Wyze Cam v3 plus spotlight kit.
The camera
The first noticeable difference between the Arlo and Wyze cameras is their respective video resolutions. The Arlo boasts a 4MP image sensor, providing up to 2k resolution, which is twice as high as that of the Wyze Cam. Moreover, Arlo’s digital version of WDR (wide dynamic range) enables it to handle two different extreme light conditions in the same frame, such as bright light and shadows, resulting in a balanced and vivid image.
On the other hand, the Wyze Cam can only provide full HD (1080p) resolution, but it compensates with a Starlight CMOS image sensor that delivers brighter and sharper images in low light conditions.
In terms of viewing angles, the Arlo has a wider 160-degree view angle, and you can zoom in up to 12x digitally using the Arlo app on your mobile device. With its 2k resolution, the result is much better than the Wyze, which only supports up to 8x digital zoom using its app.
Spotlight
Arlo Pro 4 wire-free camera is equipped with an integrated bright LED spotlight that delivers 42lm brightness and a 6500K white color temperature, similar to daylight. In contrast, Wyze cam v3 does not have an integrated spotlight, but it can be upgraded with a spotlight kit to function as a small floodlight, providing up to 70 lm brightness with a 5000k color temperature, similar to natural white.
However, both spotlights are less bright compared to general floodlight cameras, which usually come with a brightness range of 2000 to 3000 lumens. For more information, you can also refer to the comparison between Arlo and eufy floodlight cameras.
Storage
The Arlo camera only allows for live view and motion detection notifications without subscribing to the Arlo Secure plan or a cloud storage service. On the other hand, Wyze offers a different approach with their storage options. Wyze provides free lifetime cloud storage for storing clip footage (for up to 12 seconds) that is stored for 14 days. Additionally, Wyze has a micro SD card memory slot that allows for up to 32GB of local storage.
In contrast, Arlo does not offer local memory storage options, but if you already have an Arlo hub, you can connect a USB disk for local memory storage.
Wire-free
Another factor to consider is the wire-free feature of Arlo, which is powered by a rechargeable battery in addition to an AC adapter. However, when using high-intensity spotlights, the battery life may decrease quickly. On the other hand, the Wyze outdoor camera, which has a larger spotlight, doesn’t have this problem because it is powered by a power adapter. However, you will need to ensure that the power outlet is securely located if you choose to place the camera outdoors.
Wired vs Wire-free camera
In terms of power resources, wire-free and wired security cameras have their own set of advantages and disadvantages. Wire-Free Security Cameras is easy to install and setup and let you place anywhere without worrying about wiring or power outlets. However, the battery life is limited depending on usage and camera features.
Wired Security Cameras offers higher video quality and resolution, and more reliable and consistent connectivity compared to wireless cameras. With wired connection power, it can be connected to a DVR or NVR for continuous recording and storage without worrying of being out of power resources. However, the con of wired security camera is when the power outages may affect the camera’s functionality.
Ultimately, the choice between wire-free and wired security cameras will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Consider factors such as budget, ease of installation, video quality, and connectivity when making your decision.
Smart Plan
Wyze camera offers a service called the Cam Plus subscription plan, which provides additional features such as continuous recording, person detection, and more.
When comparing Wyze with Arlo’s Secure Plan, there are some similarities and differences. Both Cam Plus and Arlo Secure offer continuous recording, person detection, and cloud storage for video footage. However, Arlo Secure offers additional features such as activity zones, e911 emergency call service, and rich notifications with images.
In terms of pricing, Wyze’s Cam Plus subscription is very affordable, starting at just $1.99 per month per camera. Arlo’s Secure Plan, on the other hand, is more expensive, starting at $9.99 per month per camera.
Another important difference is that Wyze cameras are primarily designed for indoor use, but the Wyze cam outdoor can be used both indoor and outdoor surveillance same as Arlo cameras.
Overall, if you are on a tight budget, Wyze’s Cam Plus subscription plan is a good option. However, if you require more advanced features, outdoor capabilities, and are willing to pay a higher price, Arlo’s Secure Plan may be a better choice.
Without Subscription Plan
Both Wyze and Arlo offer standard features without a subscription plan, which can be accessed for free. Here are some of the basic features:
Wyze:
- Live streaming: Users can access live footage from their Wyze cameras using the Wyze app on their smartphone or tablet.
- Motion and sound detection: The Wyze camera can detect motion and sound, and users can receive alerts on their phone or tablet when activity is detected.
- Free 14-day cloud storage: Wyze cameras come with free cloud storage for up to 14 days of video footage.
Arlo:
- Live streaming: Users can access live footage from their Arlo cameras using the Arlo app on their Smartphone or tablet.
- Motion detection: The Arlo camera can detect motion, and users can receive alerts on their phone or tablet when activity is detected.
- Free 7-day cloud storage: Arlo cameras come with free cloud storage for up to 7 days of video footage.
It’s important to note that while these basic features are available without a subscription plan, some advanced features such as continuous recording, person detection, and more require a subscription plan.
Now, have a look at the following spec and feature comparison table between Arlo and Wyze cameras.
Table 2 Arlo vs Wyze cam
| Wyze version | Wyze Cam V3 | Arlo Pro 4 Spotlight |
| Image sensor | CMOS Starlight image sensor | 1/3” 4MP CMOS image sensor |
| Resolution | 1080p full HD @20 fps | Max video resolution 2560 x 1440 (2k); 1080p; 720p with HDR |
| Lens | Glass lens with f/1.6 | Fixed lens No details |
| Field of view angle | 130 degree | 160 degree diagonal |
| Zoom | 8x digital zoom | 12x digital zoom |
| Spotlight | Separate spotlight kit 70 lumens 4000 ~ 5000 K color temperature | Integrated LEDs 42Lux @1m with 6500K color temperature |
| Night vision | Color with starlight night vision, B/W night vision with 4x 940nm long range visible IR LED, 4x 850nm IR LEDs invisible light | Color with spotlight for more detail, or color with ambient light; B/W with high powered IR LEDs 850nm and IR Cut filter |
| Siren | Built-in mini siren, trigger manually via wyze app | Yes, trigger automatically or manually via Arlo app |
| Audio | Simultaneous 2-way talk, built-in ECM microphone and 80dB speaker | Full duplex audio with single microphone with noise and echo cancellation |
| Storage | Available micro SD card slot up to 32GB with overwrite Free cloud storage for 12-seconds footage and saved for 14-days | Live view, no local storage but can connect to base station with storage Cloud storage plan |
| Wifi connectivity | Single band 802.11 b/g/n @2.4GHz | 802.11b/g/n single band @2.4GHz |
| Need hub connection? | No | No |
| Works with | Alexa; Google Assistant; | Alexa, Google assistant; Apple home kit; Smartthings |
| Smart features | Motion or sound detection with video clip alerts to mobile device With customize detection zone and sound sensitivity settings, Smoke and CO alerts | Motion detection with auto track and zoom With Arlo secure plan: emergency response 24/7 hours; animated video preview; unlimited cloud storage for 30 days |
| Smart plan | Person detection; full motion recording; Vehicle, pet, and package detection | Person, Package, Vehicle, & Animal Detection; Smoke/CO Alarm Detection; Activity zone; call a friend etc |
| Time lapse | Support | CVR – continuous video recording plan is available |
| Outdoor | Yes, IP65 weatherproof | Yes, UV and weather resistant |
| Magnetic mount | Yes, | Yes |
| Power | Power Adapter: Indoor 5V/1A Outdoor Power Adapter (sold separately) | Rechargeable battery; 5V 2A Output AC; AC Adapter Input: 100-240V AC, 50/60Hz |
| Dimension | 2.1 in x 2.0 in x 2.3 in / (52 mm x 51 mm x 58.5 mm) | 3.5 in x 2.01 in x 3.08 in (89mm x 52mm x 78.4mm) |
| Price in Amazon (Sep 2021) | $49.96 | $179.99 |
After considering the pros and cons of each camera discussed above, you can now decide which one is suitable to meet your budget and home security needs. If budget is a concern, you may want to consider the Wyze outdoor camera, while if richer features are a priority (with the addition of an Arlo secure plan), the Arlo Pro 4 may be a better option.
Click the product’s link below to read more detail and shop in Amazon (#ads).
- Click here to SHOP Wyze cam v3 in Amazon Or Click here to see in Best Buy
- Or click here to SHOP Arlo pro 4 camera in Amazon Or Click here to shop in Best Buy
Related products
To add better level of home security you may to consider doorbell camera, see most popular Nest doorbell vs Arlo doorbell. Or you may also like to read this Ring doorbell vs Arlo doorbell, and read users guidelines in selecting the best doorbell without subscription plan.
Should you frequently use webcam for working from home, consider this most popular Nexigo vs Logitech 4k webcams. Or you may also consider new Obsbot webcam vs Logitech webcams. Obsbot comes with AI powered auto tracking webcam.