Are Arlo Cameras Able to Display Video on a Monitor Here Is How

Yes, Arlo cameras can display video on a monitor using several straightforward methods, including connecting through the Arlo app on a smart TV, streaming to compatible Chromecast or AirPlay 2 devices, or using an Arlo SmartHub with HDMI output. This seamless integration allows real-time viewing of live feeds or recorded footage directly on your screen, enhancing home security monitoring with ease and flexibility.

Key Takeaways

• Direct HDMI connection: Use an HDMI cable to connect Arlo base station to a monitor for live video.
• Arlo app required: Stream camera feeds to a monitor via the Arlo app on a connected smart device.
• NVR/DVR integration: Pair Arlo cameras with compatible NVRs for seamless monitor display.
• Smart TV compatibility: Cast Arlo feeds to a monitor using Chromecast or AirPlay-enabled smart TVs.
• No native monitor support: Arlo cameras lack direct plug-and-play monitor compatibility without additional hardware.

Are Arlo Cameras Able to Display Video on a Monitor? Here’s How

Imagine this: you’re relaxing on your couch, sipping coffee, and glancing at your living room monitor to see who’s at the front door. No phone, no app—just a seamless video feed from your Arlo camera, right there on a screen you already use. Sounds convenient, right? But is it actually possible? If you’ve ever asked, “Are Arlo cameras able to display video on a monitor?”—you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common questions from homeowners and tech enthusiasts alike who want a simpler, more intuitive way to monitor their property.

Arlo cameras are known for their smart features, sleek design, and wireless flexibility. But their default setup—streaming video to a phone or tablet—can feel limiting when you’re juggling multiple devices or just want a more traditional viewing experience. Maybe you’re tired of checking your phone every time the doorbell rings. Or perhaps you’re setting up a home security command center and want all your camera feeds on a central screen. Whatever your reason, the good news is: yes, Arlo cameras can display video on a monitor, but it’s not always as simple as plugging in a cable. The method depends on your Arlo model, your monitor type, and how much setup you’re willing to do. Let’s dive into the how, why, and what to expect so you can make the most of your Arlo system.

Understanding Arlo Camera Models and Their Display Capabilities

Which Arlo Models Support Monitor Output?

Not all Arlo cameras are created equal when it comes to direct video output. The ability to display video on a monitor depends largely on the hardware and ecosystem of your specific Arlo model. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Arlo Pro, Pro 2, Pro 3, Pro 4, and Pro 5: These models connect to a base station (like the Arlo SmartHub or Arlo Base Station), which can be linked to a monitor via HDMI. This is your best bet for direct, real-time display.
• Arlo Ultra and Ultra 2: High-resolution cameras that also use a base station. They support HDMI output, but you’ll need the Arlo SmartHub for full compatibility.
• Arlo Essential, Essential Spotlight, and Essential Indoor: These are Wi-Fi-only cameras that connect directly to your router. They don’t have a base station, so direct monitor output is trickier—but not impossible (more on that later).
• Arlo Video Doorbell (wired and wireless): While primarily app-based, some models can integrate with smart displays like Echo Show, which act as monitors. Direct HDMI output isn’t supported, but smart display integration is a solid workaround.

Base Station vs. Wi-Fi-Only: The Key Difference

The presence of a base station is the game-changer. Think of the base station as the “brain” of your Arlo system. It stores footage locally (if you have an SD card), processes video, and—crucially—can output video to a monitor via HDMI. Without a base station, your camera streams directly to the cloud and your phone, making direct monitor access more complex. For example, an Arlo Pro 4 connected to a base station can send a live feed to a TV or monitor using an HDMI cable. But an Arlo Essential, which skips the base station, needs a middleman—like a smart hub, streaming device, or software—to get video on a screen.

Pro Tip: If monitor display is a priority, consider investing in an Arlo system with a base station. The extra cost pays off in flexibility and ease of use.

How to Connect Arlo Cameras to a Monitor: Step-by-Step Methods

Method 1: Using the Arlo Base Station (Simplest for Pro/Ultra)

If you have an Arlo Pro, Ultra, or any model with a base station, this is your easiest path. Here’s how:

1. Connect the base station to power and your router using the included Ethernet cable. This ensures stable connectivity.
2. Link the base station to your monitor using an HDMI cable. Plug one end into the base station’s HDMI port and the other into your monitor or TV’s HDMI input.
3. Power on the monitor and switch to the correct HDMI input (e.g., HDMI 1). You should see the Arlo base station’s home screen.
4. Navigate using the base station’s on-screen menu to select a camera feed, view recorded clips, or switch between multiple cameras. Some base stations even support split-screen views!

Real-life example: A friend of mine uses this setup in his garage. He mounted a small TV to the wall, connected it to his Arlo Pro 3 base station, and now he can see who’s pulling into the driveway—without pulling out his phone. He calls it his “security dashboard.”

Method 2: Smart Displays and Streaming Devices (For Wi-Fi-Only Cameras)

No base station? No problem. If you have an Arlo Essential or a doorbell, use a smart display or streaming device:

• Amazon Echo Show: Open the Alexa app, link your Arlo account, and say, “Alexa, show the front door camera.” The feed appears on the Echo Show’s screen. Works with any Arlo camera.
• Google Nest Hub: Similar to Alexa, but requires the Google Home app. Say, “Hey Google, show the backyard camera.”
• Roku, Fire TV, or Apple TV: Download the Arlo app from the device’s app store. Log in to your Arlo account and access live or recorded feeds on your TV.

Pro Tip: For smoother performance, connect your streaming device to Wi-Fi via Ethernet (if possible). Wi-Fi lag can cause delays in live feeds.

Method 3: Computer or Laptop as a Monitor (Advanced but Flexible)

If you have a spare laptop or PC, you can turn it into a dedicated Arlo monitor:

1. Install the Arlo desktop app (available for Windows and macOS).
2. Log in to your Arlo account and select the cameras you want to view.
3. Use full-screen mode for a clean, distraction-free display.
4. Optional: Use screen mirroring software (like Miracast or AirPlay) to cast the laptop screen to a larger monitor or TV.

This method is great for small businesses or parents who want to monitor a baby’s room on a desktop. Just remember: the laptop needs to stay on and connected to Wi-Fi.

Overcoming Common Challenges: Latency, Resolution, and Compatibility

Latency: Why Is the Feed Delayed?

One of the most frustrating issues is latency—the slight delay between what the camera sees and what you see on the monitor. This can range from 2–5 seconds (or more) depending on your setup. Here’s why it happens:

• Wi-Fi congestion: If your network is busy (e.g., streaming Netflix while monitoring cameras), the Arlo feed competes for bandwidth.
• Cloud processing: Arlo cameras send video to the cloud, which processes and re-streams it. This adds a delay.
• Device limitations: Older monitors, TVs, or streaming devices may not process video as quickly as newer models.

How to fix it:

• Use a base station with Ethernet (reduces Wi-Fi dependency).
• Upgrade to a 5 GHz Wi-Fi network (less interference than 2.4 GHz).
• Reduce camera resolution in the Arlo app (e.g., switch from 4K to 1080p).

Resolution and Image Quality: What to Expect

Arlo cameras offer resolutions from 1080p (Essential) to 4K (Ultra). But your monitor’s resolution matters too. A 4K Arlo feed on a 1080p monitor won’t look sharper—it’s just downsampled. To get the most out of your setup:

• Match your camera and monitor resolution (e.g., 4K camera + 4K monitor).
• Adjust camera settings in the Arlo app (e.g., turn off HDR if it causes flickering).
• For outdoor cameras, use a monitor with good brightness (≥300 nits) to see details in direct sunlight.

Compatibility Issues: When Devices Don’t Play Nice

Not all monitors and Arlo models work seamlessly together. Common issues include:

• HDMI handshake errors: The base station and monitor fail to communicate. Fix: Try a different HDMI cable or restart both devices.
• Smart display app glitches: The Alexa or Google Home app freezes. Fix: Reinstall the app or restart the device.
• Arlo app not available: Some older Fire TV models don’t support the Arlo app. Check the app store first.

Pro Tip: Before buying a monitor, check its specs. Look for “HDMI 2.0” or higher and “HDR support” for the best compatibility.

Creative Uses for Arlo Video on a Monitor (Beyond Home Security)

Baby Monitoring Without a Dedicated Monitor

Many parents use Arlo cameras as baby monitors, but holding a phone all night is exhausting. Instead, set up a tablet or small monitor in the nursery:

• Use an Echo Show 8 on a nightstand for hands-free viewing.
• Mount a 10” HDMI monitor on the wall for a wide-angle view.
• Enable motion alerts so the monitor lights up only when the baby moves.

Real-life example: A mom I know uses her Arlo Pro 2 with a base station connected to a 24” monitor. She keeps it on “night mode” (black-and-white IR) and can check on her baby without disturbing the room’s darkness.

Retail or Small Business Surveillance

Small shops, cafes, and offices can use Arlo cameras to monitor customer traffic, staff activity, or inventory. For example:

• Place a monitor behind the counter to view all camera feeds at once.
• Use a base station’s split-screen mode to see the front door, back room, and cash register simultaneously.
• Set up motion alerts to trigger the monitor to turn on when someone enters after hours.

Pro Tip: For businesses, consider Arlo’s subscription plans (like Arlo Secure) to store footage for 30+ days and access advanced features like object detection.

Pet Monitoring and Training

Pet owners love Arlo cameras for checking in on furry friends. But a monitor makes it even better:

• Mount a screen in the living room to see if your dog is napping or chewing the couch.
• Use two-way audio (via a smart display) to call your pet from another room.
• Record clips of misbehavior to review with a trainer.

Comparing Arlo Monitor Options: Pros, Cons, and Costs

Method	Best For	Setup Difficulty	Latency	Cost
Base Station + HDMI Monitor	Home security, 24/7 monitoring	Easy (if you have a base station)	Low (1–3 seconds)	$100–$300 (monitor + cables)
Smart Display (Echo Show, Nest Hub)	Wi-Fi-only cameras, quick checks	Easy (voice commands)	Medium (3–5 seconds)	$50–$200 (smart display)
Streaming Device (Fire TV, Apple TV)	TV integration, multiple feeds	Medium (app setup)	Medium (3–6 seconds)	$30–$150 (device + cables)
Computer/Laptop as Monitor	Custom setups, advanced users	Hard (software tweaks)	Low–Medium (depends on PC)	$0 (if you have a spare device)

Key Takeaways:

• The base station method is best for reliability and low latency.
• Smart displays are the easiest for beginners but have higher latency.
• Streaming devices offer a balance of cost and functionality.
• Computers are flexible but require more effort.

Final Thoughts: Making the Most of Your Arlo Monitor Setup

So, are Arlo cameras able to display video on a monitor? Absolutely—but the “how” depends on your gear and goals. If you have a base station, it’s as simple as plugging in an HDMI cable. For Wi-Fi-only cameras, smart displays and streaming devices bridge the gap. And if you’re tech-savvy, a computer can be a powerful (and free) monitor alternative.

The real magic happens when you tailor the setup to your needs. Want a hands-free way to check the front door? Use an Echo Show. Need a 24/7 security dashboard? A base station with a wall-mounted monitor has you covered. Just remember: latency, resolution, and compatibility are your biggest hurdles. Tackle them with the right hardware and settings, and you’ll have a seamless, intuitive viewing experience.

At the end of the day, Arlo cameras are designed for flexibility. Whether you’re a busy parent, a small business owner, or just someone who hates checking their phone every five minutes, there’s a monitor solution that fits. So grab that HDMI cable, download the app, or set up your smart display—and enjoy seeing your home in a whole new way. After all, peace of mind shouldn’t require squinting at a tiny screen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Arlo cameras display video directly on a monitor?

Yes, Arlo cameras can display video on a monitor, but they require a compatible hub or base station (like Arlo SmartHub or base station) connected to the monitor via HDMI. This setup streams live feeds from your cameras to the monitor in real time.

How can I view my Arlo cameras on a TV or monitor?

To view Arlo cameras on a TV or monitor, connect your Arlo SmartHub or base station to the display using an HDMI cable. Then, use the Arlo app to configure the display settings for continuous or motion-activated viewing.

Do Arlo cameras work with external monitors without Wi-Fi?

Arlo cameras require Wi-Fi or an internet connection to stream video, but local viewing on a monitor via an Arlo SmartHub is possible without Wi-Fi once set up. The hub stores and streams footage locally to the connected monitor.

Are Arlo cameras able to display video on a monitor without a subscription?

Yes, Arlo cameras can display video on a monitor without a subscription using local storage via a SmartHub. However, cloud-based features like remote viewing or AI detection require an Arlo Secure subscription.

Can I connect multiple Arlo cameras to one monitor?

Yes, you can connect multiple Arlo cameras to a single monitor by syncing them to an Arlo SmartHub or base station. The monitor will display a split-screen view or cycle through feeds, depending on your settings.

What type of monitor works best for Arlo camera displays?

Most HDMI-compatible monitors or TVs work well with Arlo cameras. For optimal performance, choose a monitor with HD (1080p) or 4K resolution to match your camera’s video quality and ensure clear, detailed footage.