Arlo Ultra 2 Spotlight Camera review

With 4K resolution and brand-agnostic smart home support could this be the ultimate in home security?

Arlo Ultra 2 security camera
(Image: © Adam Juniper)

Digital Camera World Verdict

One of the best camera systems on the market, with good looks, excellent video quality, and a solid deterrent effect from the spotlights. Arlo’s hub is good, too, and opens up wide compatibility, though you’re still likely to end up paying a subscription for the AI advantage. The only real complaint is the curious selection of mounting options.

Pros

  • +

    4K HDR video with color night vision

  • +

    Works with Apple HomeKit as well as Alexa, Google Assistant, etc.

  • +

    8-megapixel image sensor

  • +

    Two-way talk and noise-canceling mic

  • +

    Up to 6 months charge per camera

  • +

    Cameras can be charged in-situ

Cons

  • -

    Mustn’t lose charging cable

  • -

    Only one of each type of wall mount

  • -

    Hub needs an Ethernet socket on your router/switch

  • -

    Larger homes might need additional hubs

Why you can trust Digital Camera World Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out how we test.

Wi-Fi and always-on internet has heralded a marked change in the best outdoor security devices. There is no need for cables to the cameras if they can hold their own power, and no need for a recording device if suitable cloud alternatives can be provided. For a subscription fee, of course.

Significant players in the market are owned by major players in the smart assistant world: Ring (Amazon/Alexa), Blink (Amazon), and Nest (Google). These firms have the additional incentive to guide people toward their platform.

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Adam Juniper
Managing Editor

With over 20 years of expertise as a tech journalist, Adam brings a wealth of knowledge across a vast number of product categories, including timelapse cameras, home security cameras, NVR cameras, photography books, webcams, 3D printers and 3D scanners, borescopes, radar detectors… and, above all, drones. 

Adam is our resident expert on all aspects of camera drones and drone photography, from buying guides on the best choices for aerial photographers of all ability levels to the latest rules and regulations on piloting drones. 

He is the author of a number of books including The Complete Guide to Drones, The Smart Smart Home Handbook, 101 Tips for DSLR Video and The Drone Pilot's Handbook