When it comes to smart home security devices, more features doesn’t always mean a better product. For outdoor security cameras in particular, it’s far better to have a model that’s easy to operate and offers solid performance than one with a bunch of bells and whistles that you may not use—or worse, cost extra to access.
This is precisely how we feel about the Arlo Essential XL outdoor security camera. While it has plenty of upmarket features available with its premium subscription, like AI recognition of moving images and smart activity zones, after we finished testing, the camera stood out most for how well it performs all of the basics. It provides clear footage, quality night vision, a long-lasting battery, and active motion-detection technology—all for $150.
First Impressions
Right out of the box, the first thing we noticed is that the security camera felt hefty in hand despite its plastic exterior. Setup and installation was very straightforward, too. All that’s required is screwing in the base with the included wall mount and screw kit, then sliding the camera onto the base and it’s ready to go. There’s no need for an electrician or a complex understanding of the wiring in your home. In fact, you don’t even need separate batteries. The security camera has a built-in internal rechargeable battery that uses a USB-C connection port to charge.
After charging the battery and downloading the Arlo Secure app, connecting the camera was just as easy. The outdoor camera connects to your local Wi-Fi network and uploads footage to the app through that internet connection.
The Arlo Essential XL is a relatively compact security camera despite what its name might suggest. It’s only slightly larger than its predecessor with a battery that’s four times larger, for an estimated battery life that’s four times that of the original model.
Arlo Arlo Essential XL Security Camera 2K
Cons
- Advanced features require Arlo subscription
Key Specs
| Video Resolution | 2K |
|---|---|
| Field of View | 130 degrees |
| Power Source | Battery |
| IP Rating | IP67 |
Testing the Arlo Essential XL
It has great resolution and range for the price.
Of all the outdoor security cameras we had in our testing pool, the Arlo was without question the most user-friendly in terms of app functionality and accessing live footage. It also boasts excellent resolution and solid range compared to other similarly priced models.
Most security cams in the under-$200 category only offer 1080p, whereas the Arlo boasts 2K resolution. We were impressed with the depth and clarity of the footage even at night. Its color night vision prevented black-and-white or green-tinted video, a feature that’s definitely a step up from many of the other options we tested at similar price points, which only have night vision in black and white.
Standard range for outdoor security cameras is 150 to 400 feet. The Arlo Essential XL’s range is 300 feet, which puts it at the upper end for cams in its class. Its field of view is on the higher end, too. Most outdoor security camera cap off at around 110 degrees; the Arlo bumps it up to 130 degrees. As for weatherproofing, the Arlo is again at the top of its class with an IP67 rating.
It has solid features without a subscription.
The Arlo Essential XL’s lineup of standard features is where it shines most. There’s an integrated spotlight to switch on manually or set to go off automatically when motion is detected at night—a feature we liked for more than just its security benefits. If this camera is mounted near a door, it doubles as a porch light to provide extra visibility when you’re coming home in the evening and need to find your keys.
Two-way audio is another plus for listening in and responding to whatever the camera picks up. This is particularly useful for deliveries or visitors who come by when you aren’t home. In practice, it would be an easy way to give delivery drivers instructions on where to leave or hide any packages if you don’t have a delivery box.
The speakers can do more than just broadcast your voice, too. Through the app you can also sound an alarm to ward off any potential intruders. In testing, this alarm wasn’t exactly blaring, but definitely enough to startle us.
The Arlo Essential XL is also programmed with motion-sensing technology that automatically alerts you to nearby motion it captures on video—and it connects to the spotlight we mentioned above. That means it’s possible to set the spotlight to activate in tandem with the motion-detection software to get a notification to your phone so you can check the live-stream footage.
The Drawbacks
Advanced features cost extra.
Like most security cameras, accessing the Arlo’s advanced features requires a monthly subscription. While cost is always a factor, we do think the premium membership is worth considering for things like storing up to 60 days of recording history and AI recognition software, which increases accuracy of alerts over time. We also appreciated the activity and privacy zone feature, which lets you focus on a designated area so you don’t get unwanted alerts from things like passersby in the distance.
Slight lag is a slight issue.
The only real issue we had with the camera was the slight lag (about 30 seconds) from motion notification to accessing the live feed. While this isn’t a dealbreaker it could make a difference in a situation where you need the footage right away. Luckily, all motion-activated video can be accessed later through the app if necessary.
Final Thoughts
The Arlo Essential XL outdoor security camera gets all the basics right. It’s relatively inconspicuous, easy to set up, quick to connect, offers excellent battery life, and provides clear footage. It also comes with a few included extra features that we liked a lot, such as two-way audio, color night vision, motion detection, and a built-in spotlight.
The free features that are readily available are solid and the paid ones are worth the added cost if you live in a high-traffic area. We recommend taking advantage of the 30-day free trial before committing to a subscription.
Whether you end up with the subscription or not, this outdoor security cam provides all the functionality you need in a compact, wireless package that works perfectly for renters and homeowners alike.
Tom Price is a Reviews Editor for Popular Mechanics, and also contributes to Runner’s World, and Bicycling. He has previously covered product reviews, startup news, and even professional wrestling. In his free time, he enjoys watching pretentious TV, low-brow movies, and exercising for beauty, not health. If you are interested in exploring more of his work, check out his website.
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