UniFi Protect vs Arlo, Ring, and Nest
A detailed comparison to help you choose the right security camera system for your home or business.
At a Glance
| Feature | UniFi Protect | Arlo | Ring | Nest |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Fees | None | $0-$15/month | $0-$20/month | $0-$30/month |
| Video Storage | Local (NVR) | Cloud | Cloud | Cloud |
| Max Cameras | Unlimited | Unlimited (paid) | Unlimited (paid) | Unlimited (paid) |
| Video Quality | Up to 4K | Up to 4K | Up to 1080p | Up to 4K |
| Power | PoE (wired) | Battery/Plug | Battery/Hardwired | Plug/Hardwired |
| Installation | Professional | DIY | DIY | DIY/Pro |
UniFi Protect
Best for: Tech-savvy users, businesses, privacy-focused✓ Pros
- • No monthly fees - ever
- • Local storage - your data stays private
- • 4K video quality
- • Unlimited cameras
- • Professional-grade reliability
- • AI person/vehicle detection
- • No internet required for local viewing
✗ Cons
- • Requires ethernet wiring (PoE)
- • Higher upfront cost
- • More complex setup
- • Usually needs professional installation
- • No battery-powered options
Bottom line: Best choice if you want the highest quality, no monthly fees, and don't mind running ethernet cables. Ideal for permanent installations.
Arlo
Best for: Renters, flexibility, indoor/outdoor mix✓ Pros
- • Completely wireless (battery)
- • Easy DIY installation
- • Great video quality (up to 4K)
- • Flexible placement
- • Weather-resistant
- • Good app experience
✗ Cons
- • Monthly fees for cloud storage ($10-15/mo)
- • Battery life varies (1-6 months)
- • Lag in live view sometimes
- • Advanced features require subscription
- • Can get expensive with multiple cameras
Bottom line: Great if you need flexibility and can't run wires. Be prepared for ongoing subscription costs and battery maintenance.
Ring (Amazon)
Best for: Smart home integration, doorbells, budget-conscious✓ Pros
- • Excellent doorbell cameras
- • Affordable entry point
- • Good Amazon/Alexa integration
- • Neighbors app for community alerts
- • Professional monitoring available
- • Easy installation
✗ Cons
- • Requires subscription for recording ($4-20/mo)
- • Privacy concerns (Amazon ownership)
- • Limited to 1080p video
- • Wired cameras need Ring-specific wiring
- • Some features only work in US
Bottom line: Best doorbell cameras in the business. Good for basic home security if you're okay with Amazon and subscription fees.
Nest (Google)
Best for: Google Home users, AI features, smart integration✓ Pros
- • Excellent AI detection (familiar faces)
- • Great Google Home integration
- • High-quality 4K video
- • 24/7 continuous recording option
- • Beautiful design
- • Good app experience
✗ Cons
- • Most expensive subscription ($6-30/mo)
- • Limited without subscription
- • Privacy concerns (Google ownership)
- • Limited camera selection
- • No local storage option
Bottom line: Best AI features and Google integration. Most expensive option, especially for multiple cameras.
3-Year Total Cost of Ownership
Based on 4-camera system with cloud storage
Note: UniFi Protect has higher upfront costs but saves money long-term with no monthly fees. Ring is cheapest initially but limited to 1080p. Nest is most expensive due to high subscription costs.
Our Recommendation
Choose UniFi Protect If:
- ✓You want no monthly fees
- ✓Privacy is important to you
- ✓You can run ethernet cables
- ✓You want professional reliability
- ✓You need 4K quality
Choose Arlo/Ring/Nest If:
- ✓You need quick, easy setup
- ✓You can't run cables
- ✓You're okay with subscription fees
- ✓You rent your home
- ✓You want battery-powered cameras
Need Help Deciding?
We offer free consultations to help you choose the right system for your specific needs. Based in Surrey, serving Vancouver and the Lower Mainland.