When it comes to home security, Arlo is one of the most popular and trusted names in the industry. With a wide range of security cameras and accessories, Arlo has established itself as a leader in the smart home security market. However, one question that often arises among Arlo enthusiasts is: Does Arlo have an annual plan? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Arlo’s pricing plans, explore the different options available, and help you make an informed decision about the best plan for your needs.
Understanding Arlo’s Pricing Structure
Before we dive into the annual plan question, it’s essential to understand Arlo’s pricing structure. Arlo offers a variety of plans to cater to different needs and budgets. These plans are primarily based on the number of cameras you have and the level of features you require. Here’s a brief overview of Arlo’s pricing structure:
- Free Plan:** Arlo’s free plan is perfect for those who want to try out the service or have a limited number of cameras. It includes motion detection, alerts, and 7-day cloud storage for a single camera.
- Premium Plan:** This plan costs $2.99 per month per camera and offers advanced features like 30-day cloud storage, object detection, and more.
- Elite Plan:** The Elite plan is the most advanced option, priced at $4.99 per month per camera. It includes 60-day cloud storage, advanced object detection, and customized activity zones.
The Search for an Annual Plan
Now that we’ve covered Arlo’s pricing structure, let’s get back to the question at hand: Does Arlo have an annual plan? The answer is a bit more complicated than a simple yes or no.
Arlo’s Monthly Plans: A Cost-Effective Option?
Arlo’s monthly plans seem to be the most popular choice among users, and for good reason. These plans offer flexibility and affordability, making them an attractive option for those who want to try out the service or have a limited budget. However, one drawback of these plans is that they can add up quickly, especially if you have multiple cameras.
For example, if you have three cameras and opt for the Premium plan, your monthly cost would be $8.97 (3 cameras x $2.99 per camera). While this might not seem like a lot, it can add up to $107.64 per year.
The Case for an Annual Plan
An annual plan, on the other hand, could provide significant cost savings for Arlo users. If Arlo offered an annual plan, users could potentially save money by paying a one-time fee for the entire year. This would eliminate the need for monthly payments and provide a more predictable cost structure.
For instance, if Arlo offered an annual plan for $99.99 per year ( equivalent to $8.33 per month), users could save around $7.65 per year compared to the monthly Premium plan.
Workarounds and Alternatives
While Arlo doesn’t currently offer an annual plan, there are some workarounds and alternatives you can explore:
Arlo’s 3-Year Warranty and Support
Arlo offers a 3-year warranty on its devices, which can provide peace of mind for users. Additionally, Arlo’s customer support team is available to assist with any issues or concerns you may have.
Third-Party Discounts and Promotions
Keep an eye on third-party retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, or Walmart, which often offer discounts and promotions on Arlo devices and plans. You can also sign up for Arlo’s newsletter or follow their social media accounts to stay informed about any promotions or special offers.
Competitor Comparison
If Arlo’s pricing plans don’t meet your needs, it’s worth exploring competitor offerings. For example, Nest Aware offers an annual plan starting at $60 per year, which might be a more cost-effective option for some users.
| Service | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Arlo Premium | $2.99 per camera | No annual plan |
| Nest Aware | $6 per month | $60 per year |
Conclusion
While Arlo doesn’t currently offer an annual plan, it’s clear that there are benefits to having one. An annual plan could provide cost savings, simplify the payment process, and offer a more predictable cost structure. If you’re an Arlo user or considering becoming one, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of the current pricing plans and explore workarounds and alternatives.
As the smart home security market continues to evolve, it’s possible that Arlo may introduce an annual plan in the future. Until then, users can take advantage of third-party discounts, warranties, and support to get the most out of their Arlo experience.
Remember, home security is a top priority, and finding the right plan for your needs can make all the difference. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and stay protected with Arlo.
What are the different pricing plans offered by Arlo?
Arlo offers three different pricing plans: the Premier plan, the Elite plan, and the Ultimate plan. The Premier plan is the most basic plan, offering 2K video quality, 7-day cloud recording, and three months of video history. The Elite plan offers more advanced features such as 2K video quality, 14-day cloud recording, and six months of video history. The Ultimate plan is the most advanced plan, offering 4K video quality, 30-day cloud recording, and one year of video history.
The prices for each plan vary depending on the number of cameras and the duration of the plan. For example, the Premier plan costs $3.99 per camera per month for a monthly subscription, while the Ultimate plan costs $14.99 per camera per month for a monthly subscription. Discounts are available for annual subscriptions, with the Premier plan costing $2.99 per camera per month and the Ultimate plan costing $12.99 per camera per month.
What is the difference between a monthly and an annual subscription?
The main difference between a monthly and an annual subscription is the duration of the plan. A monthly subscription is a pay-as-you-go plan, where you pay for the service on a month-to-month basis. This plan is ideal for those who want to try out the service or need it for a short period. An annual subscription, on the other hand, is a long-term commitment, where you pay for the service for a year upfront.
The benefits of an annual subscription include discounts on the monthly price, priority customer support, and a 30-day money-back guarantee. Additionally, annual subscribers get access to exclusive features such as advanced object detection and personalized alerts. However, annual subscribers are locked into a contract for a year and will be charged the full amount upfront.
Can I cancel my subscription at any time?
Yes, you can cancel your subscription at any time. However, the refund policy varies depending on the type of subscription you have. For monthly subscribers, you can cancel your subscription and get a refund for the current month. For annual subscribers, you can cancel your subscription and get a refund for the remaining months, minus a cancellation fee.
It’s worth noting that if you cancel your subscription, you will no longer have access to the Arlo app, and your cameras will no longer be connected to the cloud. You will also lose access to any recorded video footage stored on the cloud.
What is the Arlo Advantage program?
The Arlo Advantage program is a paid program that provides additional benefits to Arlo subscribers. The program offers extended warranties, priority customer support, and exclusive discounts on new devices and accessories. Members of the program also get access to advanced features such as advanced object detection and personalized alerts.
The Arlo Advantage program is available as an add-on to any Arlo subscription plan. The program costs $1.99 per camera per month or $19.99 per year per camera. While the program is not mandatory, it is highly recommended for those who want to get the most out of their Arlo system.
Can I change my subscription plan at any time?
Yes, you can change your subscription plan at any time. If you want to upgrade or downgrade your plan, you can simply log in to your Arlo account and adjust your plan settings. The change will take effect immediately, and you will be charged the new rate from the next billing cycle.
However, if you’re an annual subscriber, you may need to pay a prorated amount for the remaining months of your contract before you can change your plan. Additionally, if you want to change your plan type (e.g., from Premier to Elite), you may need to contact Arlo customer support to assist with the change.
Are there any discounts available for student, senior, or military personnel?
Yes, Arlo offers discounts for student, senior, and military personnel. Students with a valid .edu email address can get a 10% discount on their subscription plan. Seniors (65 years and older) can get a 15% discount on their subscription plan. Military personnel and veterans can get a 20% discount on their subscription plan.
To get the discount, simply sign up for an Arlo account and verify your status through Arlo’s discount program. The discount will be applied to your subscription plan, and you’ll get to enjoy the Arlo service at a lower rate.
What happens to my recorded video footage if I cancel my subscription?
If you cancel your subscription, you will no longer have access to your recorded video footage stored on the cloud. Arlo’s cloud storage is only available to active subscribers, and once your subscription is canceled, your footage will be deleted from the cloud.
However, you can download your footage to a local storage device or computer before canceling your subscription. Arlo recommends that you download your footage regularly to ensure that you have a backup in case you need to cancel your subscription.