Arlo Pro 5S vs Google Nest Cam Outdoor (Wired, 2nd Gen)
Compare features and trade-offs. Catalog scores are editorial assessments, not customer review averages or proof of hands-on testing.
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Facts and prices checked
Arlo for flexibility, Nest for always-on power in a Google home
The Arlo Pro 5S is the better pick for most buyers. It is wire-free, records 2K HDR across a 160-degree view, and can record locally through the optional Arlo Pro Smart Hub. The Google Nest Cam Outdoor (Wired, 2nd Gen) makes sense if you have an outlet nearby and already use Google Home: it never needs charging, has a 152-degree view, and costs less up front. Its weak spot is storage. Without Google Home Premium you get only about six hours of clip history and there is no local storage option, while Standard costs $10 a month and 24/7 history needs the $20 Advanced plan. Arlo's single-camera Smart Aware plan is $9.99 a month, so plan costs are close.
Key differences
| Arlo Pro 5S | Google Nest Cam Outdoor (Wired, 2nd Gen) | |
|---|---|---|
| Power | Removable rechargeable battery; optional solar panel | Wired to an outlet; no battery |
| Video | 2K (2560 x 1440) HDR | 2K HDR at 30 fps |
| Field of view | 160 degrees diagonal | 152 degrees diagonal |
| Free history | Live view and basic motion alerts; no saved cloud clips without a plan | About six hours of cloud clip history |
| Local storage | Possible with the Arlo Pro Smart Hub, sold separately | None offered |
| Subscription (US, 2026) | Smart Aware: $9.99/month one camera, $19.99/month unlimited | Google Home Premium Standard $10/month (30 days events), Advanced $20/month (60 days events plus 10 days 24/7) |
| Price | $249.99 list, frequently discounted | $149.99 launch price |
Choose Arlo Pro 5S if…
- there is no outlet where you want to mount the camera.
- you want a local recording option through the Arlo Pro Smart Hub.
- you want a slightly wider 160-degree view and a camera you can move without rewiring.
Choose Google Nest Cam Outdoor (Wired, 2nd Gen) if…
- you have an outlet nearby and never want to charge a battery.
- you already use the Google Home app to run your smart home.
- you want 24/7 recording, available on the Advanced plan.