EufyCam 2 vs. 2c vs. Arlo Pro 3
Today I will be reviewing the eufyCam 2 vs. 2C vs. Arlo Pro 3. With crime rates always getting up, the importance of security systems cannot be denied. Installing one in your home helps protect your family from intruders and burglars. Even the mere presence of a security camera can strike fear to these wayward troublemakers.
However, installing a surveillance camera can be complicated if you have a wired system. Running data cables and wires through your house is grueling.
You have to tear your house apart to install one. Is there any alternative to this complex installation?
- The eufyCam 2 records videos at 1080p and boasts of having a Sony STARVIS sensor that makes nighttime footage almost as clear as day. This wireless system is a compelling option for those who are seeking reliable home security without having to pay a monthly subscription. While the two-camera kit is sufficient for small homes, you may add more cameras as needed.
- The eufyCam 2C has fewer features compared to its sibling, the eufyCam 2. But if you are looking for an affordable wireless system for your home inside and out, this is the way to go. The camera footage quality is also excellent at 1080p.
- The Arlo Pro 3 costs a lot more than its competitors because it has a robust feature set, including the 2K HD resolution, colored night vision, and a motion-activated spotlight, among others. While the upfront cost is already expensive, it gets even more expensive after the Arlo Smart Plan three-month-trial expires. But if you are looking only for the best, you could never go wrong with this system.
Main Differences
- Resolution
Both the eufyCam 2 and 2c have 1080p resolution. The Arlo Pro 3, on the other hand, outperforms the two eufyCam models in this category with its 2K (2560 x 1440) video resolution. - Cloud Storage
The lack of monthly obligations is one of the major attractions of the eufyCam 2 and 2c. Although Arlo may claim that the Pro 3 may still work without any subscription, you won’t be able to take advantage of the innovative features that make this product ahead of its league. - Battery
Both the eufyCam 2 and 2c use non-removable Li-ion batteries, while the Arlo Pro 3 equips a removable Li-polymer battery. The eufyCam 2C and Arlo Pro 3 have a maximum of three months’ battery life. On the other hand, the eufyCam 2 can last up to 365 days per charge.
Table Comparison
eufyCam 2
The eufyCam 2 by Anker is the upgraded version of eufy’s flagship battery-powered camera, the eufyCam. This wireless home security system.
If its packaging isn’t obvious enough, it boasts of having 365 days’ worth of battery life. I already had the eufyCam 2 installed in our outdoor kitchen for four months, and its battery life still has 74% left. The reason is that the camera is mostly on standby mode.
Besides the fact that the eufyCam 2 is a breeze to set up, another thing I like about this security system is that there are no mandatory monthly fees. It is a one-time purchase!
- 1080p resolution and 140° field of view
- May last up to 365 days per charge
- No hidden charges and mandatory subscriptions
- Offers 16 GB of military-grade storage
- Equipped with Sony STARVIS sensor for clearer night view
- Intelligently distinguish humans from other objects
- Optimizes image quality of human faces
- Compatible with Apple Homekit, Google Assistant, and Amazon Alexa
- IP67-rated water-resistance
- Operating temperatures ranging – 4° to 122 °F
- 100 dB intruder siren
- Lacks a built-in spotlight for increased lighting during nighttime
- Does not work when the Internet is down
- Has a slightly distorted view
- Batteries aren’t removable
eufyCam 2C
The eufyCam 2C is a perfect example that you can snag one of the best wireless security camera systems for a couple hundred dollars. This system strikes a balance between features, performance, price, and user-friendliness. The two-camera kit is easy to set up, and it works outdoors all-year-round.
The eufyCam 2C records 1080p videos, and it is compatible with the same HomeBase as the eufyCam 2. Therefore, you can use both models simultaneously. Considering the features it offers, the lack of any subscription makes it an attractive option. If you have little reason to spend more, the eufyCam 2C would fit your needs.
- 1080p resolution and 135° field of view
- May last up to 180 days per charge
- No hidden charges and mandatory subscriptions
- Offers 16 GB of military-grade storage
- Integrated spotlight
- Intelligently distinguish humans from other objects
- Optimizes image quality of human faces
- Compatible with Apple Homekit, Google Assistant, and Amazon Alexa
- IP67-rated water-resistance
- Operating temperatures ranging – 4° to 122 °F
- 100 dB intruder siren
- Has a shorter battery life and smaller field of view
- Batteries aren’t removable
- Does not work when the Internet is down
Arlo Pro 3
The Arlo Pro 3 doesn’t come cheap, but you will get a lot of value for your money. This includes two high-quality cameras that deliver razor-sharp 2K video with excellent contrast and vivid colors. The two-way audio sounded clean on both ends, and the built-in alarm is loud enough to ward off trespassers.
However, you will have to subscribe to an Arlo Smart Plan to enjoy premium features. At the cost of $3 per month, you can already take advantage of Smart Alerts, which did me a great job of identifying people from animals and vehicles.
This pricey indoor/outdoor camera system is a cinch to install. If the battery is running low, you can always recharge the camera using its one-of-a-kind magnetic charger. This unit also supports third-party integrations, such as Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant voice commands.
- 2K HDR resolution
- 160° field of view
- Colored night vision
- Integrated spotlight
- Intelligently distinguish humans, animals, and vehicles
- Compatible with Apple Homekit, Google Assistant, and Amazon Alexa
- IP65-rated water-resistance
- Operating temperatures ranging – 4° to 113 °F
- 80-decibel intruder siren
- Premium AI features via an Arlo Smart Plan
- Minor performance issues with multiple 2K streams
- Require a paid subscription to avail advanced features
Face to Face Comparison
In today’s review of the eufyCam 2 vs. 2C vs. Arlo Pro 3, I am going to go over the design and feature sets of each model. Let’s dive in!
Design
eufyCam 2
The eufyCam 2 consists of the HomeBase 2 and two of the eufyCam 2 cameras that measure 4.25 x 2.25 x 2.25 inches each.
A motion sensor and four infrared LEDs are arrayed around the lens of each camera, while the speaker and microphone sit at the underside. Likewise, a metal thread for mounting and microUSB port for charging are found at the back of the cameras.
The eufyCam 2 has a watertight housing with four star-shaped screws next to the microUSB charging port. Although this gizmo has a water resistance rated at IP67, I still recommend you place the unit underneath an eave to increase the longevity of the product. As for the bitter cold, you can expect the eufyCam 2 to operate from – 4° to 122 °F.
As for the HomeBase 2, you will find the speaker, power supply, USB port, Ethernet port, alarm button, and reset hole behind it. There is also a speaker underneath the base station.
There are two types of mounts included in the box: an indoor mount with a magnetic dome where the camera sits. There is also another outdoor mount, which has a screw attachment. The attachment fastens into the back of the camera, holding it in a fixed position.
All in all, the eufyCam 2 looks like its predecessor with its black and white color scheme. The hub, however, has been redesigned to resemble closely like the low-profile camera. The white monolith measures five inches tall, with a footprint of 3.5 x 3.5 inches.
eufyCam 2C
The eufyCam 2C uses the same HomeBase as the eufyCam 2, which you will need to plug directly into your router using the provided Ethernet cable. Of course, there are two eufyCam 2C cameras, a pair of mounts with screws and fixings, a power adapter, and a USB-A microUSB charging cable.
The eufyCam 2C features the same curved white and black aesthetic, but it is a lot smaller than expected, measuring just 3.2 x 1.89 x 2.24 inches.
There is a slight notch underneath the camera, which reveals the microUSB charging point when pulled up.
Similar to the eufyCam 2, its chassis has a weather-resistance rated at IP67.
Arlo Pro 3
What came with the Arlo Pro 3 are two cameras, SmartHub, related cables to hook up the base station, one battery per camera, and a proprietary charging cable to charge those cameras. Now, I also received two different mounts.
I got a tripod-style mount where you screw in the back of the camera onto the mount. Also, I have a magnetic mount where the back of the camera magnet latches on to that mount. The manufacturer has included one of each type of mount for the two cameras.
I am a big fan of the sleek and elegant design of the Arlo Pro 3. The SmartHub has a chic minimalistic look to it, too.
The front of the Arlo Pro 3 includes the integrated spotlight, lens, infrared LEDs, and light sensors. You will find the PIR motion sensor and speaker in the lower half portion of the front, as well. At the back, you have the metal thread to install the camera with a traditional screw and mount.
The bottom is where you attach the magnetic charging cable. There is a push button to open up the camera from the front. Push the button and you will see the front end pop out. This is where you will insert the battery.
The Arlo Pro 3 is a weatherproof camera with operating temperatures ranging from -4 to 113°F.
Battery Life and Capacity
eufyCam 2
The eufyCam 2 comes equipped with four 18650 Li-ion cells, which is the same battery Tesla uses for their electric cars.
The camera takes eight hours to complete a charge from a depleted state. The blue indicator light will turn on while charging and it will automatically turn off when it is full. Take note that these batteries are non-removable and non-replaceable. But according to the manufacturer, the battery pack can last up to 300 charging cycles.
Does that mean the unit can last for 300 years, given that you only need to charge once a year? I don’t think so! Besides, 365 days is merely an estimation. If you install the surveillance system in front of a busy street, I am pretty sure the battery life will deplete fast.
The way the 13, 000 mAh li-ion battery pack can last a year is because the camera does not record consistently 24 hours a day. Here’s the thing: the camera sits in standby until its motion sensor notices movement within the activity zones I created, such as a moving car or a raccoon rummaging the trash can.
Only then will the actual camera send that footage to the base station. Since the camera only streams whenever it senses motion or while I manually check the footage, it conserves battery life exceptionally well.
eufyCam 2C
The eufyCam 2C is powered by the same type of internal battery as the eufyCam 2. But unlike the latter, this model can last only up to three to six months between charges.
Be warned that the battery drains a lot faster if you are connecting your camera with the HomeKit. This is something eufy did not warn us about.
When it comes to charging, it utilizes micro-USB, which has a port covered by a small rubber flap located on the bottom of the camera.
Arlo Pro 3
The Arlo Pro 3 uses 4800 mAh li-polymer batteries. According to the manufacturer, the battery pack can last for about three to six months. Now, you must be thinking, “How do I charge the batteries?”
Initially, you will have to place the battery pack inside the camera. Once the cells are set up, there is no need for you to open it up again. You don’t have to unscrew everything, either. Simply take your magnetic charger and let it stick at the bottom of your camera.
Give it a few hours and you are good for another three or six months.
Resolution and Video Quality
eufyCam 2
I was genuinely impressed with the video quality of the eufyCam 2. The 2-megapixel glass lens captures daylight video in a stunningly clear and colorful 1080p resolution. Likewise, the camera provides a 140-degree field of view, giving me ample coverage of the surrounding environment.
However, there is a slight distortion, which I wouldn’t typically see with high-end cameras, such as the likes of Arlo Pro 3. Nevertheless, the eufyCam 2 makes up with its face recognition. Fitted with Smart Image Enhancement, the advanced AI optimizes the image quality so that the face of a person gets clearer.
What’s more, the eufyCam 2 comes equipped with a Sony STARVIS sensor. This unique sensor makes the camera capable of filming and streaming HD footage even at night. As a result, I finally got to see the critters that were stealing tomatoes from my garden.
eufyCam 2C
Daytime 1080p video recordings are about as crisp and detailed as the eufyCam 2. The only difference, which is barely noticeable, is that the 2C has a 135-degree field of view, instead of 145 degrees.
Although the eufyCam 2C does not have a Sony Starvis sensor, it includes an integrated floodlight, which greatly improved the quality of the nighttime footage. Hence, you can still identify individuals that will do any criminal activity around your property.
Arlo Pro 3
The Arlo Pro 3 has a 4-megapixel lens that records in 2K video quality. The 2560 x 1440 resolution is exactly half of the Ultra HD 4K resolution. Don’t even try to deny that you are wowed! However, you may also choose to record footage in 1080p or 720p. On a side note, the manufacturer also developed Arlo Ultra, which records in 4K resolution.
That crystal clear quality extends to its night vision, where Arlo Pro 3 beat the game with a feature called “Spotlight,” which is basically a colored version of night vision. The said feature allows the built-in spotlight to light up when detects motion at night and records footage with a 6500-degree Kelvin color temperature.
Thanks to the auto-track and 12x digital zoom, I finally identified who my garden thieves were.
Audio and Alarms
eufyCam 2
Another quality I love about the eufyCam 2 is that it has a massive speaker that allows two-way communication. Can this really be true? Yup! I was able to call out my puppy Scovidoo for dragging a pillow outside the house.
Scovidoo was standing within approximately 25 feet of the camera, and I could hear him, “Arf! Arf! Arf!” Unfortunately, you wouldn’t be able to hear much during a windy day.
Okay, I know what you are thinking: what if someone steals away the camera? If some troublemaker does try to take the camera, it will trigger a 100-decibel alarm for you and your neighbors to hear. Know that 100 dB is as loud as a motorcycle engine or a power lawnmower. You may also trigger this alarm manually.
The eufyCam 2C is also good in terms of conversation capability. I found it was easy to carry on a conversation with the UPS guy, thanks to the two-way audio. Also, I can adjust the volume using the app.
eufyCam 2C
The eufyCam 2C also has a built-in theft sensor, which is triggered by activity. When triggered, the camera will belt out a 100-decibel alarm.
You may also trigger the alarm manually using the app. To prevent false alarms, such as playing pets, I adjusted the sensitivity so that the camera will only get triggered by activity due to human-sized intruders.
Arlo Pro 3
The clarity of the footage with the Arlo Pro 3 extends to the audio experience. A full duplex two-way audio and a single microphone with noise and echo cancellation are embedded inside the camera. I could hear my guests talking about their dislike of pineapples on pizzas while I was dialing Pizza Hut from the other room.
By the way, the Arlo Pro 3 is capable of distinguishing between people, animals, and vehicles. I could also adjust the motion sensitivity using the Arlo app and set up activity zones. These features are quite handy if none of your family members will admit to stealing cash. In my case, I was notified that it was my dog, not my daughter, who took a piece of the cake I just placed on the table.
Also, the Arlo Pro 3 cameras have an integrated 80-decibel siren that you may activate manually to ward off naughty teens or garden-level thieves. Best of all, it offers a 911 Emergency Service feature that will dispatch responders to my home when there is suspicious activity within my custom activity zones.
Smart Home Integration
eufyCam 2
The eufyCam 2 works with Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant, and Amazon Echo devices.
With Apple HomeKit, I can activate the video stream via iPad or AppleTV.
eufyCam 2C
The eufyCam 2C supports Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant, and Amazon Alexa.
However, eufy described this feature as “Beta” and so, there might be instances where you can’t get your Google Assistant to show a live stream on your smart TV.
Arlo Pro 3
The Arlo Pro 3 integrates with two major smart platforms: Amazon and Google.
Therefore, I can use my voice and link my Arlo Pro 3 with either Google and Amazon virtual assistant to watch my footage for me wherever I want.
Storage Options
eufyCam 2
Thankfully, Anker heard our cry to exclude premium services. Unlike the Arlo Pro 3, I am not required to store videos in the cloud for a fee. Everything is stored in the HomeBase 2, which has 16 GB of storage.
Paying monthly subscriptions is the last thing I need. But if you are willing to pay extra, you may get additional storage in the cloud through a Basic Plan or a Premier Plan. The Basic Plan gives you a month’s worth of storage for $3, while the Premier Plan supports up to 10 cameras for $10 per month.
eufyCam 2C
Similar to the eufyCam 2, the 2C is not associated with any cloud subscription. Up to 16 GB of footage is automatically stored in the HomeBase, which is good for around three months of recordings. However, there is also an option to store recordings in the cloud for a small fee of $3 per month.
Arlo Pro 3
If I want to expand my surveillance system using the Arlo Pro 3 SmartHub, I can link up to six cameras to its base station. But if having extra subscription costs turns you off, I don’t think you should look at the Arlo Pro 3.
While I personally don’t want to deal with paid subscriptions, I respect Arlo for their efforts of maintaining their services secure and reliable. So, it makes perfect sense that using their cloud service will cost you money.
You may still use the Arlo Pro 3 without their paid cloud service, though. You may install a 128 GB SD card into the SmartHub to save videos directly into the base station itself.
Then again, this unit is designed so much to work through the subscription. To boot, saving footage with 2K resolution can eat up the memory quite fast.
Installation
eufyCam 2
Getting started only takes a few minutes. Here’s how I did it:
- There are two ways to connect the HomeBase 2. First, I plugged the Ethernet cable in. You may use Wi-Fi, but initially, you need to plug the base station into your router.
- I downloaded the Eufy Security app and connected the HomeBase 2 to my router’s LAN port. Make sure your phone is connected to the same Wi-Fi router the HomeBase 2 is linked to.
- I waited for the red LED status indicator to turn from red to blue.
- Then I scanned the QR code at the bottom of the HomeBase 2, followed by pressing the sync button found at the back of the hub.
- Time to add the cameras! But first, I had to place the cameras within a meter range of the HomeBase 2.
- Using the app, I clicked “Add Device,” “eufyCam 2,” and “HomeBase 2.”
- Next, I pressed the sync button for two seconds until I heard a beep. At this moment, the HomeBase 2 was emitting sound waves to locate the camera.
- After hearing the voice prompt, I immediately named my cameras “Snoopy” and “Nosey.” Of course, you can name your cameras whatever you want, and connect a maximum of 16 of eufyCam 2 cameras to a single HomeBase 2.
- Time to mount the cameras! Eufy is thoughtful enough to include a white stencil, which guided me where to drill holes for the outdoor mount.
- Then I removed the sticker and fastened the plastic base to the exterior wall using two screws. Once the base is secure, I can clip in the little ball-like mount and screw the whole camera snuggly into place.
eufyCam 2C
Both the eufyCam 2 and 2C use the HomeBase 2. Since I already have an account with eufy, I was able to get the eufyCam 2C up and running in a few minutes.
But if you are setting up a new system, you will be following the same procedure as I did with the eufyCam 2.
- Start by plugging the HomeBase into the wall so that you can connect it with your router.
- Download the eufy app for your Android or iOs device to create an account. Select the system and add the first camera.
- The mounts themselves are straightforward. Also, the app will show you the strength of the Wi-Fi signal so that you can choose the best location before you start screwing.
- While the magnetic ball joint gives me complete freedom to select which angle I want to install the camera, I prefer installing it with the traditional screw and mount.
Arlo Pro 3
When it comes to mounting, I have a lot of options using the magnetic mount.
- I can also simply put the camera down on a table. But first, I have to take the SmartHub and plug it into power.
- Then I downloaded the Arlo app and created a new account. You may sign in if you already have an existing one. After that, I went through and added the base station and linked the cameras.
- When it is set up, you can name your cameras. I named mine “St. Michael” and “St. Gabriel.” It showed that I have activated my three-month-trial of the Smart Plan.
- From there, you want to figure out where you want to install the cameras. By the way, you can’t put your cameras too far away from the base station because the distance can affect the quality of the Wi-Fi signal. You may also check the app to get an idea of where to place your camera.
- Screw in the mounts, and you are ready to go!
You may also use the magnetic mount. I like to use the magnetic mount to install the camera indoors because you can put it vertically or horizontally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Eufy better than Arlo?
Can I use the Arlo Pro 3 without a subscription?
Do you need an Internet connection to use the eufyCam 2, 2c, and Arlo Pro 3?
Is Eufy made in China?
Does Eufy support HomeKit?
What is Sony STARVIS?
How do you charge the Arlo Pro 3?
Conclusion
The Arlo Pro 3 boasts of an array of features that add real convenience. This includes user-friendly app controls, crystal clear 2K resolution, colored night vision, and a lot more.
Unfortunately, most of the admirable AI features are locked behind a subscription service. That is why the average homeowner might find this system an overkill, given the upfront cost plus monthly fees. If you are not happy about it, you might want to consider getting the eufyCam 2 and 2C, instead.
The eufyCam 2 and 2C are alike in many ways. Both models ditch subscriptions and are compatible with the same HomeBase that can save up to 16 GB of footage. In terms of performance, both the eufyCam 2 and eufyCam 2C capture video in 1080p.
The only difference between the eufyCam 2 and 2C is that the latter has a night LED and only has 180 days of battery life.
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