Arlo Pro 4 vs 5S – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

Arlo Pro 5S & Arlo Pro 4 share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Arlo Pro 5S rather than the Arlo Pro 4. 

Why Do I Recommend The Arlo Pro 5S

  • The Arlo Pro 5S has dual-band Wi-Fi connectivity for faster and more reliable streaming across both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks, while the Arlo Pro 4 uses only 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi.
  • Arlo Pro 5S features Low Power Mode for extending battery life by up to 30% in long-term monitoring situations, whereas the Arlo Pro 4 does not support any dedicated low-power optimization.
  • It includes SecureLink technology for maintaining connectivity and functionality during Wi-Fi or power outages when paired with a hub, while the Arlo Pro 4 lacks SecureLink and fully depends on active Wi-Fi.
  • The Arlo Pro 5S has an upgraded image sensor for clearer details and better color accuracy in low-light conditions, whereas the Arlo Pro 4 uses an older sensor.
  • Arlo Pro 5S supports color night vision without needing the spotlight to activate, allowing discreet surveillance in dark environments, while the Arlo Pro 4 relies more on its spotlight for producing color at night.
  • It comes with enhanced 12-bit digital zoom for sharper close-up inspection of subjects, whereas the Arlo Pro 4 uses a lower-grade zoom that loses more detail at higher levels.
  • The Arlo Pro 5S has a quoted battery life of up to eight months for fewer recharge interruptions, while the Arlo Pro 4 typically lasts around three to six months.
  • Arlo Pro 5S is fully optimized with the latest Arlo Security System for seamless integration and advanced redundancy features, while the Arlo Pro 4 lacks the same level of system optimization.

Maybe the Arlo Pro 4 price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Arlo Pro 5S. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

Side By Side Comparison

FeatureArlo Pro 5SArlo Pro 4
Dual-band Wi-Fi supportYesNo
Low Power ModeYesNo
Improved Image SensorYesNo
SecureLink ConnectivityYesNo
2K Resolution (2560×1440)YesNo
Auto-zoom / TrackingEnhancedStandard or lower zoom capability
Battery EfficiencyHigherStandard efficiency
Color Night VisionYesNo
Field of View (160°)Wider and auto-correctingStandard 160° field
DIY Wi-Fi Direct ConnectionYesRequires base station or other setup
Strategic Hub CompatibilityFully optimized with Arlo Security SystemCompatible, but less synergy
Faster Video LoadingYesSlower
Better Resilience in OutagesYesNo
Extended Battery Life (8 mo)Claimed – up to ~8 monthsAround 3–6 months
12-bit Sensor Color AccuracyYesNo
PriceCheck Arlo Pro 5S PriceCheck Arlo Pro 4 Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • 2K Video Resolution: Both cameras deliver crisp, detailed video at 2560 × 1440 resolution, ensuring fine visual clarity.
  • High Dynamic Range (HDR): They utilize HDR to balance bright and dark areas in a single frame, enhancing image quality in challenging lighting.
  • 160° Field of View: A wide 160° viewing angle helps each camera capture more of a scene from a single position.
  • Color Night Vision: Even at night, both cameras can produce color imagery—not just monochrome—if conditions allow.
  • Integrated Spotlight: Each camera includes a built-in spotlight that automatically activates in low-light scenarios (and can also be controlled manually).
  • Integrated Siren: Both models feature a built-in siren, offering audible alerts that can be triggered manually or by motion/audio detection.
  • Auto Zoom & Tracking: Each camera supports auto zoom and subject tracking technology to keep detected objects centered and clear in the frame.
  • Two-Way Conversational Audio: Full duplex audio allows simultaneous speaking and listening, enabling smooth, real-time interaction through both cameras.
  • Wire-Free, Battery-Powered Design: Both are designed to operate wirelessly with rechargeable batteries, offering flexible installation without needing constant power outlets.
  • Weather-Resistant Build: Both are ruggedly constructed for outdoor use, capable of withstanding rain, heat, cold, and varying environmental conditions.
  • Compatible with Arlo App: They share the same mobile app interface—including setup, live viewing, and settings—for a seamless user experience.
  • Subscription Support (Arlo Secure): Both include a trial for Arlo’s subscription services, which unlock cloud recording, smart alerts, and extended features.
  • DIY Magnetic Mount Installation: Each camera supports simple, tool-free mounting using magnets—making placement quick and adjustable without wiring.
  • Smart Home Integration: Fully compatible with leading smart-home platforms—such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT, and Samsung SmartThings—both integrate neatly into smart ecosystems.
  • Motion Detection Notifications: Both cameras offer motion-based alerts that can notify you via app or other configured channels when activity is detected.

Common Features

FeatureArlo Pro 5SArlo Pro 4
2K Video ResolutionYesYes
High Dynamic Range (HDR)YesYes
160° Field of ViewYesYes
Color Night VisionYesYes
Integrated SpotlightYesYes
Integrated SirenYesYes
Auto Zoom & TrackingYesYes
Two-Way Conversational AudioYesYes
Wire-Free, Battery-PoweredYesYes
Weather-Resistant BuildYesYes
Compatible with Arlo AppYesYes
Subscription Support (Arlo Secure)YesYes
DIY Magnetic Mount InstallationYesYes
Smart Home Integration (Alexa, Google, IFTTT, SmartThings)YesYes
Motion Detection NotificationsYesYes
Price Check Arlo Pro 5S Price Check Arlo Pro 4 Price

FAQ

What resolution do the Arlo Pro 5S and Arlo Pro 4 record in?
Both the Arlo Pro 5S and Arlo Pro 4 record in 2K resolution (2560×1440), providing sharp video quality with clear details suitable for identifying faces, objects, and license plates.

Do both cameras support HDR?
Yes, both cameras include HDR (High Dynamic Range), which enhances image quality in challenging lighting conditions by balancing shadows and highlights.

Can the Arlo Pro 5S and Pro 4 record in color at night?
Yes, both cameras support color night vision when there is enough ambient light or when the built-in spotlight is activated.

Do these cameras have integrated spotlights?
Yes, both the Arlo Pro 5S and Pro 4 feature integrated spotlights that can turn on automatically with motion or be manually controlled through the app.

Is there a built-in siren on both models?
Yes, both include a built-in siren that can be triggered remotely or automatically to deter intruders.

Are the Arlo Pro 5S and Pro 4 wireless?
Yes, both models are completely wire-free and powered by rechargeable batteries, allowing flexible installation without needing external wiring.

Can both cameras be used outdoors?
Yes, both cameras are weather-resistant and designed to withstand rain, heat, cold, and direct sunlight, making them suitable for outdoor installation.

Do the Arlo Pro 5S and Pro 4 support two-way audio?
Yes, both cameras feature full-duplex two-way audio, which allows for real-time conversation where you can listen and speak simultaneously.

Are these cameras compatible with smart home systems?
Yes, both the Arlo Pro 5S and Pro 4 are compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT, and Samsung SmartThings for smart home integration.

Do both cameras use the same Arlo mobile app?
Yes, both cameras operate through the Arlo Secure app, giving users a unified platform for setup, live viewing, and managing notifications.

Is motion detection available on both cameras?
Yes, both the Arlo Pro 5S and Pro 4 include advanced motion detection that alerts you instantly when activity is detected in their field of view.

Do they require a subscription to use?
Both cameras work without a subscription for live streaming and basic alerts, but an Arlo Secure subscription unlocks advanced features like cloud recording, AI-based detection, and smarter notifications.

How wide is the field of view on each camera?
Both cameras provide a wide 160-degree field of view, allowing them to capture more of the surroundings from a single placement.

Do both cameras come with magnetic mounting options?
Yes, each model includes magnetic mounts for quick and flexible DIY installation, making it easy to reposition the camera when needed.

Do the Arlo Pro 5S and Pro 4 include trial access to Arlo Secure?
Yes, both typically come with a trial of Arlo Secure, which allows users to test cloud storage, smart alerts, and premium features before committing to a subscription.