Long-Time Arlo User Impressed by Anona Aurora + SmartBase

I have been using Arlo cameras for over a decade problem, and I was quite happy with it, but it lacks the features that I need most unless I subscribe to their cloud storage service. Was looking for a replacement and found this gem. Why did I switch? 1. Anona allows me to define security zones without having to pay for their cloud storage service. 2. Cameras come with solar panels as part of the package and works very well the cameras. I had to buy 3rd party solar panels for the Arlo cameras because the OEM solar panels are really expensive. 3. Offers privacy zones, which Arlo does not offer. Essentially I can block out areas in the captured video and they will show up blacked out in the video. 4. The biggest issues with the Arlo cameras was I cannot access the video stored on the base station unless I setup port forwarding on my home router. My current internet provides does not support port forwarding so I was not able to access videos when I was away from the house which kind of defats the purpose. Only way I can do that with Arlo is by subscribing to their service. Anona allows me to view the video from anywhere over wifi or cell service. 5. Anona cameras come with 64GB of built-in storage and of course also support upto 512GB of storage when using the base station. Pros: 1. Hardware quality is top notch. I have been using their 2k cameras close to 2 years now and still functions as new and never had any issues with the hardware. 2. Setting up the cameras by themselves or connecting them to the base station was a breeze. 3. 4k video is really exceptional. 4. Premium features like, security areas, privacy zones, access video from any where, package detection, pet detection, person detection are all free. I have to pay for all these features with ny current cameras, which can add up over the years in terms of cost. 5. Base station is half the size of Arlo base station and the built-in speaker and siren is just as loud. 6. Night video is in color even in low light compared to black and white with my Arlo cameras, unless it is pitch black outside. 7. The Anona base station supports both WiFi and Ethernet connections, which means I don't have to place the base station next to my router Like I have to do now with the Arlo base station. 8. Support is very responsive and have always gotten back to me as soon as I logged a ticket. Cons: The app can use improvement. When it comes to apps, Arlo is top-notch. Anona can certainly improve the app. While the app is very functional and the features work and has a lot more features compared to Arlo app, the look and feel certainly needs improvement.