Home security is a top priority, and these days there are two distinct approaches to keeping your camera system running at its best. One path is through manufacturer subscription plans like Arlo Secure, which add cloud recording and smart features to your Arlo security cameras. The other path is via service-based support from brands like ZenithCam, which doesn’t sell cameras but instead offers expert assistance for camera owners. In this article, we’ll compare Arlo’s subscription plans to ZenithCam’s service plans, highlighting how each works and which might suit your needs. If you already own security cameras (of any brand) and want reliable help optimizing them, read on to see how ZenithCam’s Basic and Premium support plans stack up against Arlo’s Secure and Secure Plus subscriptions.
Arlo is a well-known camera manufacturer that offers subscription plans to unlock the full capabilities of its security cameras. Arlo’s two main plans are Arlo Secure (the standard plan) and Arlo Secure Plus (the advanced plan). These subscriptions are designed exclusively for Arlo camera owners and focus on cloud video storage and smart security features:
Arlo Secure (Standard Plan): This entry-level paid plan provides 30 days of rolling cloud video storage for your Arlo cameras, so you can review recordings for up to a month. It supports video recording in HD/2K quality (and up to 4K in some regions) for crystal-clear playback. Arlo Secure also unlocks advanced object detection—your cameras can distinguish between people, pets, vehicles, and packages, reducing false alerts. Additional perks include interactive notifications (allowing you to view an animated video preview and take quick action from your phone’s lock screen) and detection of smoke/CO alarm sounds to alert you of potential emergencies. Essentially, Arlo Secure adds a layer of smart automation and cloud convenience on top of the basic live view your cameras have out of the box.
Arlo Secure Plus (Advanced Plan): The Secure Plus plan includes everything in Arlo Secure and adds further benefits for those who want top-tier protection. With Secure Plus, you get support for 4K video recording in the cloud (ideal if you own Arlo Ultra or other 4K-capable models, ensuring you don’t lose any detail in your footage). The cloud storage duration remains 30 days (in some regions, extended to 60 days). A key addition is Emergency Response (e911) – from the Arlo app you can quickly contact emergency services near your home, which is crucial if you’re traveling or unable to dial 911 directly. For users who have the Arlo Home Security System, Arlo Secure Plus also unlocks the option of 24/7 professional monitoring, where a trained security team can monitor alarms and dispatch help. This makes Secure Plus not just a camera plan but a more comprehensive security subscription. Secure Plus is ideal for Arlo users who want the absolute maximum features, such as the highest video quality recordings and an extra layer of emergency coverage.
Pricing: Arlo’s plans are subscription-based, billed monthly or annually. For example, Arlo Secure is around $7.99 per month for a single camera (or about $17.99/month for an unlimited-camera package at one location). Arlo Secure Plus costs roughly $24.99 per month for an unlimited-camera plan with the advanced features. (Pricing may vary by region and promotions.) These fees are in addition to the cost of the Arlo cameras themselves, which are purchased separately. It’s also worth noting that without a subscription, newer Arlo cameras have very limited cloud capabilities – you’d be relying on live view or local storage only. That’s why many Arlo owners opt for one of these plans to get cloud recording and smart alerts.
ZenithCam takes a completely different approach. ZenithCam is a service-based brand that does not manufacture or sell camera hardware at all. Instead, ZenithCam offers expert assistance and technical support to owners of any security camera brand. Whether you have Arlo cameras, Ring doorbells, Nest Cams, a mix of different brands, or a custom CCTV system, ZenithCam’s team is there to help you set it up, troubleshoot issues, and optimize your surveillance setup. Think of ZenithCam as your personal tech support for security cameras – a service you subscribe to for peace of mind and hands-on help, rather than a cloud storage plan.
ZenithCam currently offers two service plans: ZenithCam Basic and ZenithCam Premium. Both are paid monthly service subscriptions focused on helping you get the most out of your existing cameras, but they cater to different levels of support needs:
ZenithCam Basic (Support Plan): The Basic plan is perfect for homeowners or small businesses who have a camera system and occasionally need some help. This plan provides personalized setup assistance – for example, if you purchase a new camera (of any brand), ZenithCam experts will guide you through installation and configuration step by step. You also get ongoing troubleshooting support during regular business hours. If your cameras go offline, you’re unsure how to adjust a setting, or you need to connect your camera’s app to your phone, the ZenithCam support team is just a call or email away to walk you through it. Basic plan subscribers receive help with optimizing settings (such as motion sensitivity or scheduling), advice on camera placement for better coverage, and answers to general questions about using their surveillance system. In short, ZenithCam Basic is an affordable way to have a “security camera guru” on call when you need guidance, without having to sift through forums or manuals on your own.
ZenithCam Premium (Advanced Support Plan): The Premium plan is a more comprehensive support package for power users, larger properties, or anyone who wants a higher level of service. It includes all the assistance of the Basic plan, plus additional benefits. Premium subscribers enjoy priority support, meaning their requests are handled first with faster response times – crucial if an important camera in your system is down and you need urgent help. Premium also offers extended support hours (including nights or weekends) for critical issues, ensuring you’re never without help when something goes wrong. Moreover, ZenithCam Premium provides in-depth system optimization and customization guidance. This can include personalized consultations on how to integrate multiple camera systems or brands into one interface, advanced network configuration to ensure smooth camera streaming, and regular check-ins or system health reviews. Essentially, with the Premium plan you have a dedicated expert who not only helps when something breaks, but actively works with you to fine-tune your security setup for reliability and performance. This level of service is great for users who have a complex surveillance setup, such as several cameras covering a big property or a small business environment, and who cannot afford downtime or inefficiency in their security system.
Key difference: Unlike Arlo’s plans, ZenithCam’s Basic and Premium services do not provide cloud storage or camera features directly. Instead, they complement whatever camera hardware and software you already use. You keep using your camera’s own app or recording method (be it an SD card, NVR, or a third-party cloud), and ZenithCam simply ensures you’re getting it all set up correctly and resolves any problems along the way. The value is in the human support and expertise, rather than software features. Now, to clearly see how these offerings differ, let’s put Arlo and ZenithCam side by side.
To better understand the contrast between Arlo’s subscription plans and ZenithCam’s support services, here’s a comparison table. It outlines what you get with Arlo Secure / Secure Plus versus ZenithCam Basic / Premium:
| Feature/Service | Arlo Secure (Plan) | Arlo Secure Plus (Plan) | ZenithCam Basic (Service) | ZenithCam Premium (Service) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hardware Provided | Requires Arlo cameras (sold separately) – Arlo plan only works with Arlo devices. | Requires Arlo cameras (sold separately) – works with Arlo devices (needed for 4K features, etc). | No hardware provided – works with any existing camera you own (any brand). | No hardware provided – works with any existing camera system (brand-agnostic support). |
| Cloud Video Storage | Yes – 30 days cloud storage for video clips (rolling). | Yes – 30 days cloud storage (clips saved in cloud; some regions 60 days). | Not included – you continue using your camera’s own storage (SD card, DVR/NVR, or third-party cloud). ZenithCam can assist in setting up storage solutions, but doesn’t host video. | Not included – use your existing storage method. ZenithCam provides guidance on optimizing storage use (e.g., setting up local backups), but no cloud service. |
| Video Resolution Support | Up to 2K recording quality saved to cloud (higher resolutions downscaled in cloud). | Up to 4K recording quality supported in cloud (for 4K-capable Arlo models). | N/A – ZenithCam isn’t a recording service, but supports any camera resolution. If your camera is 1080p, 2K, 4K, etc., ZenithCam will help you make sure you’re recording at the best possible quality. | N/A – supports any camera resolution. ZenithCam can help configure your system to use the highest quality your devices allow. |
| Smart Alerts & AI Detection | Yes – AI-based detection of people, vehicles, animals, packages; rich notifications on phone. | Yes – includes all Arlo Secure smart detection features (people, animals, etc.). | Service-oriented: Helps you configure motion detection zones, sensitivity, and alerts on your cameras’ own apps. If your camera system has AI features (like person detection on a Nest Cam or similar), ZenithCam will guide you in enabling and tuning them. | Service-oriented: Advanced alert optimization and customization. ZenithCam experts can help set up third-party analytics or integrate multiple systems for smarter notifications, tailored to your needs. |
| Professional Monitoring | Not included with standard plan. (Arlo users monitor their cameras themselves via app notifications.) | Optional/Included for those with Arlo Security System – offers 24/7 professional monitoring and emergency dispatch for alarms. | Not included – ZenithCam is not a 24/7 monitoring center. You or your security company will monitor the camera feeds; ZenithCam’s role is support and setup. | Not included – no live monitoring. However, ZenithCam can advise on connecting your system to a monitoring service or setting up alerts to your phone so you act as the monitor. |
| Emergency Call Feature (e911) | Not available on basic plan. | Yes – e911 feature lets you call local emergency services through the Arlo app, useful if you’re away from home. | Guidance only – ZenithCam can help you configure emergency contact features of your system (for example, setting up your camera app to quickly dial police or trigger a siren), but it doesn’t provide an emergency calling service of its own. | Guidance only – can assist in setting up any available emergency outreach features in your security ecosystem, but no direct emergency dispatch service provided by ZenithCam. |
| Setup Assistance | Self-setup (DIY) – Arlo provides instructions and online FAQs. Direct one-on-one setup help is not included in the subscription. | Self-setup (DIY) – same as Arlo Secure, you install cameras yourself; no personalized setup service from Arlo. | Yes – Personalized setup help. ZenithCam Basic includes one-on-one guidance for installing cameras, connecting them to Wi-Fi/NVR, and configuring apps/settings. It’s like having a tech support agent walk you through the process. | Yes – White-glove setup service. ZenithCam Premium offers in-depth assistance for setting up complex systems (multiple cameras, network configs, smart home integration). They will virtually hand-hold through advanced setup steps to ensure everything works together. |
| Ongoing Technical Support | Standard product support via Arlo customer service (queries handled in order, during support hours; primarily for Arlo hardware issues). | Standard Arlo customer support (with possibly priority for top-tier customers, but still limited to Arlo products). | Yes – Continuous support. Basic plan gives you access to ZenithCam’s experts for troubleshooting issues (camera offline, app not working, etc.) via email or phone during business hours. Support covers any camera brand or software questions you have. | Yes – Priority expert support. Premium plan provides faster response times, extended hours support (nights/weekends), and a dedicated point of contact. Great for urgent issues or business-critical surveillance systems. |
| System Optimization | Limited – Arlo’s plan mainly focuses on camera features, not optimizing your whole setup. (You might get tips via Arlo’s help center, but no custom optimization service.) | Limited – similar to standard plan; focus is on features Arlo enables, not on customizing your unique setup beyond app settings. | Yes – Basic optimization guidance. ZenithCam will advise on best camera placement, app settings, and maintenance tips so your existing system runs smoothly. They might suggest better angles, lighting considerations, or app configurations. | Yes – Comprehensive optimization. ZenithCam Premium includes scheduled check-ups or consultations to continually improve your system. For example, analyzing coverage gaps, assisting with firmware updates, integrating new devices, and tailoring the system as your needs evolve. |
| Compatibility | Only works with Arlo products. (Arlo Secure plans are exclusive to Arlo’s own cameras and doorbells.) | Only works with Arlo products. (To benefit, you must stay within Arlo’s ecosystem.) | Works with any camera brand. ZenithCam support is brand-agnostic: Arlo, Ring, Nest, Hikvision, Dahua, Lorex, you name it – if you have it, they’ll help you with it. | Works with any camera brand or mixed system. No matter how many different camera brands or security gadgets you use, ZenithCam can support the entire setup under one service plan. |
| Cost Structure | Paid subscription (monthly/annual). Example: ~$7.99/month (1 cam) or ~$12.99–$17.99/month (multi-cam). Cancel anytime. | Higher-tier subscription. Example: ~$19.99–$24.99/month for all cameras with advanced features. Cancel anytime. | Paid service plan (monthly). Affordable rate designed for occasional support needs. Cancel anytime – no long-term contract required. | Paid service plan (monthly). Premium price for premium service. Still flexible month-to-month. Consider it an investment in keeping your security system professionally maintained. |
| Ideal For | Arlo camera owners who want cloud recording and smart detection features with minimal hassle. Great for users who prefer an all-in-one solution (hardware + cloud service from one brand). | Arlo owners who want the maximum protection and features Arlo offers – including higher video quality and integration with emergency services. Ideal if you’ve built your security fully around Arlo’s ecosystem. | Security camera owners (any brand) who prefer DIY but want backup help. Ideal for someone comfortable with basic tech but who likes knowing expert support is available when needed for setup or occasional problems. | Home or business owners with existing cameras (especially multiple or different brands) who want ongoing expert assistance. Perfect if you have a complex setup or limited time/tech know-how, and you value having a dedicated support partner to keep your system running flawlessly. |
(Table: Comparing key aspects of Arlo’s subscription plans vs. ZenithCam’s service plans.)
As you can see, Arlo Secure and Secure Plus are centered on delivering technological features (cloud storage, AI detections, etc.) for Arlo devices, whereas ZenithCam Basic and Premium are purely service-oriented, focusing on the human support element for any security camera system. If you have Arlo cameras, an Arlo Secure plan will enhance those cameras’ capabilities directly through the Arlo app. In contrast, a ZenithCam service plan won’t change your camera’s software features, but it will make it easier for you to install, manage, and troubleshoot your cameras by providing expert guidance.
If you already own security cameras (especially if they are from different brands or part of a custom setup), you might wonder what benefits a service like ZenithCam offers compared to a manufacturer’s subscription. Here are a few reasons why ZenithCam’s support-based model can be extremely valuable:
No New Hardware Needed: ZenithCam doesn’t require you to buy any new cameras or gear. You might already have a mix of cameras set up around your home or office. With ZenithCam, you can improve and maintain that system without investing in an all-new ecosystem. This is cost-effective and convenient – keep using what you have, just use it better with professional help.
Brand-Agnostic Support: Perhaps you have an Arlo camera covering the front door, a Ring doorbell at the porch, and a couple of older IP cameras watching other areas. Getting support for such a mixed system is difficult, because each manufacturer will only help with their own product. ZenithCam, however, is one point of contact that understands all kinds of security cameras. They can help integrate your devices and make them work in harmony (for example, setting up all your camera feeds in one viewing app if possible, or ensuring each device is configured correctly). This unified support is a huge advantage if your security setup isn’t all from one brand.
Personalized, Human Assistance: A big downside of many tech products (cameras included) is the lack of accessible support – you often have to dig through online forums or wait on hold for customer service. With ZenithCam, you’re essentially subscribing to a concierge-style tech support. Instead of generic instructions, you get to talk to real experts who remember your setup and preferences. They can walk you through issues in plain language. This human touch means less frustration and quicker resolutions when you face a problem. It’s like having a “camera guy/gal” in your contacts whom you can call whenever you need help.
Optimization and Peace of Mind: Security isn’t just about buying good cameras; it’s also about installing them correctly, keeping them running, and knowing how to use them effectively. ZenithCam’s service model shines here – their team can proactively help optimize your system. For example, they might suggest repositioning a camera for a wider view of your driveway, or help you tweak motion detection zones to reduce false alarms from tree branches. They can remind you to keep firmware up-to-date (and even assist with the updates). All these little things add up to a more reliable security system. As a user, you gain peace of mind that your cameras are set up right and that if anything goes wrong, you have experts to turn to immediately.
Focus on Support vs. Features: Arlo’s plans are great if you specifically want the features they offer (cloud recording, smart alerts). But they don’t help if, say, your Wi-Fi network is causing camera drops, or you’re confused by the settings – those remain your responsibility to figure out. ZenithCam’s entire business is helping you solve those kinds of issues. They complement the features your cameras already have (whether you use local storage or a third-party cloud, etc.) by making sure you can actually utilize those features properly. For many people, especially those who aren’t tech-savvy or don’t have time to troubleshoot, this support is more valuable than another app feature. It can mean the difference between a security camera system that you feel confident in versus one that constantly annoys you with hiccups.
It’s helpful to compare Arlo and ZenithCam directly to understand the differences. Below is a comparison of Arlo’s Secure plans versus ZenithCam’s plans, feature by feature. This will highlight where ZenithCam shines and how Arlo’s offerings stack up in contrast:
| Feature / Service | Arlo Secure (Basic) | Arlo Secure Plus (Advanced) | ZenithCam Basic | ZenithCam Premium |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cloud Video History | 60 days (recently upgraded from 30). | 60 days (same retention period as base plan). | 30 days. | 60 days. |
| Max Cloud Video Quality | Up to 2K (higher-res cameras get downscaled). | Up to 4K (full quality for 4K cameras). | Up to 2K. | Up to 4K. |
| AI Smart Detection | Yes – People, vehicles, animals, packages (with rich notifications). | Yes – (Same object detection as Secure plan). | Yes – People and vehicle detection; custom motion zones. | Yes – (Same AI detection as Basic). |
| Emergency Dispatch Option | No (notifications only; user must call 911 themselves if needed). | Yes – In-app “Emergency Response” calls first responders to your location. | No (standard alerts only). | No (Premium offers video call alerts to user, but no direct dispatcher service). |
| Special Alert Method | Push notifications with image previews. | Push notifications; emergency call button in app. | Push notifications (mobile alerts). | Push + camera-to-phone video call for critical alerts (user receives a live call). |
| Setup & Installation Help | Basic self-setup (instructions included in box and online). No personalized setup service. | Basic self-setup (no change; plan doesn’t add setup services). | Guided self-setup (tutorials, online help). | Personalized setup assistance (one-on-one guidance session available). |
| Customer Support Level | Standard support (limited hours; community forum, etc.). | Standard support (no priority; Arlo doesn’t differentiate by plan). | Standard support (email/chat during support hours). | Priority support (24/7 availability; faster response, phone support). |
| Devices Covered by Plan | Single camera for $9.99/mo, or multiple cameras (unlimited) for $19.99/mo. | Unlimited cameras (intended for multi-cam setups, one price covers all on account). | ~Up to 3 cameras included (suitable for small setups). | Unlimited cameras included (covers any number of devices). |
| Monthly Price | $9.99 (1 cam) or $19.99 (multi-cam). | ~$19.99–$24.99 (unlimited cams; higher tier features). | ~$5.99 (covers small setup). | ~$12.99 (covers entire setup). |
In summary, ZenithCam’s service model is all about you, the user. It’s not tied to selling you equipment or locking you into a particular platform. Instead, it meets you where you are – with whatever cameras you’ve chosen – and helps you make that setup as secure and effective as possible. For anyone who has invested in cameras (maybe even an Arlo camera among others) but wants more hands-on help and customization than a typical subscription provides, ZenithCam fills that gap nicely.
Both Arlo and ZenithCam ultimately aim to enhance your security camera experience, but they do so in very different ways. Arlo’s Secure plans are ideal if you have Arlo cameras and want to unlock cloud storage and smart detection features seamlessly through the Arlo ecosystem. On the other hand, ZenithCam’s Basic and Premium plans don’t give you new app features, but they offer something equally important: expert support and peace of mind for any camera setup. If you’re the kind of person who values having an on-call expert to ensure your cameras are always running optimally (without having to become a tech expert yourself), ZenithCam is a compelling choice. It’s especially valuable for those who already own cameras and are looking for reliable support and guidance rather than new hardware.
ZenithCam simplifies CCTV camera setup and troubleshooting with step-by-step guides and expert advice, empowering you to secure your home or office with ease. All trademarks and brand names are property of their respective owners, and ZenithCam is not affiliated with or endorsed by any third-party brands.
