Are Arlo Cameras Compatible With ADT Pulse A Complete Guide

Arlo cameras are not natively compatible with ADT Pulse, meaning you cannot directly integrate them into the ADT Pulse ecosystem for centralized control. However, workarounds like IFTTT or third-party hubs may enable limited functionality, though features like live viewing and alerts within the ADT app remain restricted—making native ADT equipment a more seamless choice.

Key Takeaways

• No native compatibility: Arlo cameras don’t directly integrate with ADT Pulse systems.
• Use third-party hubs: Connect Arlo to ADT via compatible smart home platforms like SmartThings.
• Check app support: ADT Pulse app won’t display Arlo feeds but can manage alerts.
• Manual setup required: Pairing demands technical steps; follow guides carefully for success.
• Prioritize security: Ensure both systems use strong, unique passwords to prevent breaches.
• Future updates possible: Monitor Arlo/ADT announcements for official integration improvements.

Why Compatibility Matters When Choosing Your Home Security System

Imagine this: You’ve just moved into a new home, and you’re excited to set up your smart security system. You’ve already got a few Arlo cameras from your last place, and you love how easy they are to use and how great the video quality is. But now, you’re considering switching to ADT Pulse—a well-known name in home security with professional monitoring and a sleek app. The big question on your mind? Can I use my Arlo cameras with ADT Pulse?

You’re not alone. Many homeowners face this dilemma when upgrading or switching security systems. The truth is, mixing and matching devices from different brands isn’t always straightforward. While both Arlo and ADT offer top-notch security features, their ecosystems don’t always play nice together. In this guide, we’ll dive deep into whether Arlo cameras are compatible with ADT Pulse, what workarounds exist, and how to make the most of your setup—whether you’re sticking with one system or trying to blend the best of both worlds.

Understanding Arlo and ADT Pulse: A Quick Overview

What Is Arlo?

Arlo is a popular brand of wire-free, Wi-Fi-enabled security cameras known for their sleek design, high-resolution video (up to 4K on newer models), and smart features like motion detection, night vision, and two-way audio. Arlo cameras are designed to work within the Arlo ecosystem, which includes:

• Arlo SmartHub or Arlo Base Station (for local storage and better connectivity)
• Arlo app (for remote access, alerts, and camera management)
• Optional cloud storage (via Arlo Secure subscription)

Many users love Arlo for its DIY setup, no contracts, and flexibility. You can start with one camera and expand over time without needing a professional installer.

What Is ADT Pulse?

ADT Pulse is a professional home security system that combines monitored protection with smart home automation. Unlike Arlo, ADT Pulse is typically installed by a technician and includes:

• Door/window sensors, motion detectors, and control panels
• 24/7 professional monitoring (with emergency dispatch)
• ADT Pulse app for remote control and alerts
• Integration with Z-Wave smart home devices (like lights, locks, and thermostats)

ADT Pulse is ideal for users who want peace of mind with round-the-clock monitoring and a more traditional, professionally managed system. However, it often requires a contract and monthly fees.

Key Differences in Ecosystems

The main difference between Arlo and ADT Pulse lies in their ecosystem design. Arlo is built for DIY users who want full control and easy setup. ADT Pulse, on the other hand, is designed for users who prefer a hands-off, professionally managed system.

This difference becomes crucial when you ask: Can these two systems work together? The short answer is: not natively. But don’t worry—there are ways to make them coexist, and we’ll cover those next.

Are Arlo Cameras Officially Compatible With ADT Pulse?

The Official Stance: No Direct Integration

Let’s get the hard truth out of the way: Arlo cameras are not officially compatible with ADT Pulse. ADT has its own line of cameras (like ADT Command or ADT Pro Series), and the Pulse system is designed to work primarily with these devices. The ADT Pulse app doesn’t support adding Arlo cameras directly.

This is because both systems use different:

• Communication protocols (Wi-Fi vs. Z-Wave/Cellular for ADT sensors)
• Cloud platforms and data handling
• Authentication and encryption methods

Trying to “pair” an Arlo camera with the ADT Pulse app will result in an error or simply not work. For example, if you try to scan the QR code of an Arlo camera in the ADT app, it won’t recognize the device. Similarly, ADT doesn’t provide APIs or SDKs for third-party camera integration.

Why ADT Doesn’t Support Third-Party Cameras

ADT’s business model relies on offering a complete, end-to-end security solution. By using only ADT-branded cameras, they ensure:

• Consistent video quality and performance
• Reliable cloud storage and data security
• Seamless integration with monitoring services
• Better customer support and warranty coverage

Allowing third-party cameras could introduce compatibility issues, security vulnerabilities, or support headaches. For example, if an Arlo camera goes offline, ADT’s monitoring team wouldn’t know how to troubleshoot it—and that could delay emergency response.

Real-World Example: A User’s Experience

Take Sarah, a homeowner in Austin, Texas. She had three Arlo Pro 4 cameras and loved their video quality. When she upgraded to ADT Pulse for professional monitoring, she assumed her Arlo cameras would “just work” with the new system. She was wrong.

“I tried everything,” she told me. “I downloaded the ADT app, scanned the Arlo QR codes, even called ADT support. They said, ‘Sorry, we only support our own cameras.’ I ended up keeping my Arlo cameras but using them separately. It’s not ideal, but at least I still have good coverage.”

Sarah’s story is common. While it’s disappointing, it’s not the end of the road. There are workarounds—and we’ll explore them in the next section.

Workarounds: How to Use Arlo Cameras Alongside ADT Pulse

Option 1: Run Both Systems Independently

The simplest workaround is to use both systems side by side. Keep your Arlo cameras connected to the Arlo app and your ADT Pulse system running separately. This way:

• You get the benefits of professional monitoring (via ADT)
• You retain the high-quality video and smart features of Arlo
• You can access both apps on your phone or tablet

How to set it up:

1. Install your ADT Pulse system as usual (with technician help, if needed).
2. Keep your Arlo cameras powered and connected to your Wi-Fi.
3. Use the Arlo app for camera alerts and recordings.
4. Use the ADT Pulse app for sensor alerts, automation, and monitoring.

Pros:

• No extra hardware or costs
• Full functionality of both systems

Cons:

• You need to check two apps for alerts
• No unified “smart home” experience
• No way to trigger ADT actions from Arlo motion (e.g., turn on lights)

Tip: Set up notifications for both apps to “vibrate only” or use different alert sounds so you can tell which system triggered an alert.

Option 2: Use a Smart Home Hub (IFTTT or Home Assistant)

If you’re tech-savvy, you can use a smart home hub to bridge the gap between Arlo and ADT Pulse. Two popular options are:

• IFTTT (If This Then That): A free automation tool that connects apps and devices.
• Home Assistant: A self-hosted smart home platform with advanced automation.

Example with IFTTT:

You can create an applet that says: “When Arlo detects motion, send a notification to the ADT Pulse app.” While it won’t show the video in ADT, it will alert you to check the Arlo app.

Steps:

1. Create accounts on IFTTT and enable the Arlo and ADT Pulse services.
2. Create an applet: “If Arlo camera detects motion, then send a push notification.”
3. Customize the message (e.g., “Backyard motion detected—check Arlo app”).

Limitations:

• No video streaming to ADT Pulse
• Delay in notifications (IFTTT can be slow)
• ADT Pulse doesn’t have full IFTTT support (only basic triggers)

Example with Home Assistant:

Home Assistant offers deeper integration. You can:

• Stream Arlo camera feeds to a dashboard
• Trigger ADT sensors (if Z-Wave compatible) from Arlo motion
• Create custom automations (e.g., “If Arlo detects motion at night, turn on porch lights and disarm ADT”)

Note: Home Assistant requires a Raspberry Pi or dedicated server and some technical setup. But if you love tinkering, it’s worth it.

Option 3: Use a Third-Party NVR or Video Management System (VMS)

If you’re serious about video surveillance, consider using a Network Video Recorder (NVR) or Video Management System (VMS) like Blue Iris, Milestone, or Synology Surveillance Station.

These systems can:

• Pull video streams from Arlo cameras (via RTSP or ONVIF)
• Integrate with ADT sensors (if they support Z-Wave or IP alerts)
• Provide centralized recording, alerts, and remote access

Example: You set up Blue Iris to record all Arlo camera feeds. When motion is detected, it sends an alert to your phone and triggers a Z-Wave light (connected to ADT) to turn on.

Pros:

• Professional-grade video management
• Full control over storage and privacy

Cons:

• High cost (NVR hardware + software licenses)
• Complex setup and maintenance

Comparing Arlo and ADT Cameras: Which Should You Use?

Video Quality and Features

Let’s compare the two systems head-to-head:

Feature	Arlo Pro 4	ADT Command Camera
Resolution	2K (2560 x 1440)	1080p (1920 x 1080)
Night Vision	Color night vision (with spotlight)	Infrared (black and white)
Two-Way Audio	Yes	Yes
Weather Resistance	IP65 (dust/water resistant)	IP54 (splash resistant)
Power Source	Rechargeable battery or solar	Hardwired
Storage	Cloud (Arlo Secure) or local (microSD)	Cloud (ADT Secure)
AI Detection	Person, vehicle, package detection	Basic motion detection

As you can see, Arlo cameras generally offer better video quality and smarter features. The Arlo Pro 4 has 2K resolution, color night vision, and advanced AI detection—features that ADT’s Command camera lacks.

Monitoring and Support

Here’s where ADT shines:

• Professional monitoring: ADT’s 24/7 team can dispatch police or fire if an alarm is triggered.
• Guaranteed response: ADT promises a response within 30 seconds of an alarm.
• Customer support: ADT offers phone, chat, and on-site support.

Arlo, on the other hand, is self-monitored. You’re responsible for checking alerts and contacting emergency services if needed. While Arlo offers a SmartHub with local storage (so video isn’t lost if the internet goes down), it doesn’t provide professional monitoring unless you add a third-party service.

Cost Comparison

Let’s break down the costs for a 3-camera setup:

Cost Type	Arlo (3x Pro 4)	ADT Pulse (3x Command Cameras)
Hardware	$599 ($199 per camera)	$499 (included with monitoring plan)
Monthly Monitoring	$0 (self-monitored) or $10–$25 (Arlo Secure)	$45–$60 (includes monitoring and cloud storage)
Contract	No contract	36-month contract
Installation	DIY (free)	Professional (included)

Arlo is cheaper upfront and offers more flexibility. ADT is more expensive but includes professional monitoring and installation.

Tips for a Smooth Hybrid Setup (If You’re Using Both)

1. Use a Strong Wi-Fi Network

Both Arlo and ADT rely on Wi-Fi for alerts and video streaming. Make sure your network is:

• Strong and stable (use a mesh Wi-Fi system if needed)
• Dedicated to security devices (create a separate network or VLAN)
• Protected with strong passwords and WPA3 encryption

Tip: Place your router centrally and avoid interference from microwaves, cordless phones, or thick walls.

2. Label Your Cameras Clearly

If you’re using both Arlo and ADT cameras, label them in the app. For example:

• “Arlo – Front Door”
• “ADT – Backyard”

This makes it easier to identify which camera triggered an alert.

3. Sync Alerts with Smart Home Devices

Even if you can’t integrate the systems directly, you can use smart lights or plugs to create a unified response. For example:

• When Arlo detects motion at night, turn on a smart porch light (via IFTTT).
• When ADT detects a door opening, turn on a smart indoor light (via ADT automation).

4. Test Your Setup Regularly

Set a monthly reminder to:

• Check that all cameras are online
• Test motion detection and alerts
• Verify battery levels (for Arlo)
• Update firmware on all devices

Final Thoughts: Should You Mix Arlo and ADT Pulse?

So, are Arlo cameras compatible with ADT Pulse? Technically, no. But that doesn’t mean you can’t use them together. If you already own Arlo cameras and want the peace of mind of ADT’s professional monitoring, a hybrid setup is a smart compromise.

Think of it like having two layers of security: Arlo for high-quality video and smart features, and ADT for 24/7 monitoring and emergency response. While it requires a bit more effort to manage two apps, the combined protection can be worth it.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your priorities:

• If you value flexibility and video quality, stick with Arlo (and consider adding a monitoring service like Noonlight).
• If you want hands-off, guaranteed protection, go all-in with ADT and use their cameras.
• If you want the best of both worlds, run both systems side by side and use smart home tools to bridge the gap.

Remember, home security isn’t one-size-fits-all. The goal is to feel safe and in control—whether that’s with one system or a blend of the best tools available. And now that you know how Arlo and ADT Pulse can (and can’t) work together, you’re one step closer to building the perfect setup for your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Arlo cameras compatible with ADT Pulse systems?

No, Arlo cameras are not officially compatible with ADT Pulse systems, as they use different proprietary platforms and communication protocols. While both are popular security brands, they’re designed to work within their own ecosystems.

Can I integrate my Arlo cameras into ADT Pulse for unified monitoring?

Unfortunately, direct integration between Arlo cameras and ADT Pulse isn’t supported. You’d need to manage Arlo devices through the Arlo app and ADT Pulse separately for live viewing and alerts.

Is there a workaround to use Arlo cameras with ADT Pulse?

Some users have connected Arlo cameras via third-party automation platforms like IFTTT, but functionality is limited and not officially endorsed. For full compatibility, consider using ADT’s own Pulse-compatible cameras instead.

Do ADT Pulse hubs support Arlo camera connectivity?

No, ADT Pulse hubs don’t support Arlo camera connectivity. The hub is designed to work exclusively with ADT-certified devices for seamless integration and professional monitoring services.

Will ADT Pulse ever support Arlo camera compatibility?

There’s no official announcement about future compatibility between ADT Pulse and Arlo cameras. For updates, check both companies’ websites, but currently, separate systems remain the only option.

What are the best alternatives if I want Arlo and ADT Pulse to work together?

For a unified experience, use ADT’s own cameras with Pulse or switch entirely to Arlo’s ecosystem with professional monitoring via Arlo Secure. This ensures full feature access without compatibility issues.