Are Arlo Cameras Compatible With Alarmcom The Truth Revealed

Arlo cameras are not natively compatible with Alarm.com, meaning you can’t directly integrate them into the Alarm.com ecosystem for unified monitoring and automation. However, workarounds like IFTTT or third-party hubs may offer limited connectivity, though functionality will be restricted compared to native Alarm.com cameras—check your system specs before investing.

Key Takeaways

• Direct integration is limited: Arlo cameras don’t natively support Alarm.com without a bridge.
• Use a compatible hub: Pair Arlo with Alarm.com via a SmartThings or Hubitat hub.
• Check firmware updates: Ensure Arlo devices run the latest firmware for better compatibility.
• Verify Alarm.com plan: Some features require a premium Alarm.com subscription.
• Manual setup required: Linking Arlo to Alarm.com often needs custom automation rules.
• Prioritize security: Always enable two-factor authentication on both platforms.

The Big Question: Are Arlo Cameras Compatible With Alarm.com?

Let’s face it—home security can feel like a tech jungle. You’ve got cameras, sensors, hubs, and apps all vying for attention. And when you’re trying to piece together a seamless system, compatibility becomes everything. I remember when I first bought my Arlo Pro 3 cameras. I loved their sleek design, crisp 2K video, and easy setup. But then came the moment of truth: “Wait… will these work with my Alarm.com-powered security system?” I stared at my phone, wondering if I’d just made a $300 mistake.

If you’ve ever been in that boat, you’re not alone. The question “Are Arlo cameras compatible with Alarm.com?” pops up constantly in forums, Reddit threads, and even my own inbox. People want the flexibility of Arlo’s wireless, weatherproof cameras but also crave the professional monitoring, automation, and remote access that Alarm.com offers through its network of authorized dealers. So, is it possible? Can you have your cake and eat it too? The short answer: not directly. But as with most things in tech, there are workarounds, trade-offs, and nuances that make this a much richer conversation than a simple yes or no.

Understanding the Players: Arlo vs. Alarm.com

What Makes Arlo Cameras Stand Out?

Arlo, a brand under Netgear, has built a reputation for wire-free, easy-to-install smart cameras that prioritize convenience and high-quality video. Their lineup includes indoor and outdoor models with features like:

• 2K HDR video resolution
• Color night vision (in newer models)
• Two-way audio
• Smart motion detection with person, vehicle, and package alerts
• Local storage via microSD (on select models)
• Cloud storage with Arlo Smart subscription

One of Arlo’s biggest selling points? No mandatory professional monitoring. You can set up the cameras yourself, control them via the Arlo app, and even integrate them with platforms like Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, and IFTTT. This makes Arlo a favorite for DIYers who want control without contracts.

What Is Alarm.com and How Does It Work?

Alarm.com, on the other hand, is a professional home security and automation platform used by thousands of licensed security dealers across the U.S. and Canada. Unlike Arlo, Alarm.com doesn’t sell direct to consumers. Instead, you buy an Alarm.com-powered system through a local provider (think companies like ADT, Frontpoint, or a local security installer).

Alarm.com’s strengths include:

• Professional 24/7 monitoring (with police/fire dispatch)
• Remote arm/disarm via app or web
• Smart home automation (thermostats, lights, locks)
• Video verification for alarms (reduces false dispatches)
• Customizable alerts and automation rules
• Integration with third-party devices (Z-Wave, Zigbee, etc.)

But here’s the catch: Alarm.com has its own ecosystem of compatible cameras—like those from DSC, Interlogix, and its own Alarm.com-branded models. These cameras are designed to work seamlessly with the platform, often offering features like encrypted video, motion-triggered clips uploaded to the cloud, and integration with alarm events (e.g., “Front door opened” triggers camera recording).

The Core Difference: Closed vs. Open Ecosystems

Think of Arlo as the “Apple” of security cameras—closed, user-friendly, and focused on the end-to-end experience. Alarm.com is more like a “custom-built PC”—modular, professional, and designed for integration with a broader system. This fundamental difference is why direct compatibility is so rare.

For example, Arlo cameras use their own cloud infrastructure and communication protocols. Alarm.com, meanwhile, relies on a central hub (like a DSC PowerSeries panel) that communicates with its own devices using specific encryption and data formats. It’s like trying to plug an Android phone into an iPhone’s Lightning port—they’re both phones, but the connectors don’t match.

The Truth About Direct Compatibility (Spoiler: It’s a No)

Why Alarm.com Doesn’t Support Arlo Natively

Let’s cut to the chase: Arlo cameras do not integrate directly with Alarm.com. You can’t add an Arlo camera to an Alarm.com account through the official app or dealer portal. Here’s why:

• Proprietary Protocols: Alarm.com uses its own video streaming and encryption standards. Arlo uses its own (including RTMP and HLS). They don’t speak the same language.
• Cloud Architecture: Arlo cameras stream to the Arlo cloud, while Alarm.com expects video to route through its own servers for monitoring and verification.
• Professional Monitoring Requirements: Alarm.com dealers need full control over video feeds for alarm verification. Arlo’s consumer-focused model doesn’t support this level of access.
• Business Model: Alarm.com partners with camera manufacturers to co-develop hardware. Arlo competes with those partners, so there’s little incentive to collaborate.

I learned this the hard way when I tried to add my Arlo camera to my Frontpoint (Alarm.com-based) system. The app simply didn’t recognize the device. My dealer confirmed: “We can’t support Arlo cameras—they’re not in our compatibility list.”

What About the Alarm.com App’s “Add Camera” Feature?

You might notice the Alarm.com app has an “Add Camera” option. Don’t get your hopes up. This only works with specific Alarm.com-certified cameras, such as:

• ADC-VC727P (indoor PTZ)
• ADC-V724 (outdoor 1080p)
• ADC-VC827P (doorbell cam)
• DSC PowerSeries NEO cameras

These cameras are built to work with Alarm.com’s video verification, automation, and monitoring features. Arlo isn’t on this list—and likely never will be.

Real-World Impact: What You Lose Without Direct Integration

If you use Arlo and Alarm.com separately, you miss out on:

• Video Verification: When your alarm triggers, Alarm.com can’t pull a clip from your Arlo camera to verify a break-in. This means more false dispatches (and potential fines).
• Unified Alerts: Arlo alerts come through the Arlo app; Alarm.com alerts come through its app. You’re juggling two notifications.
• Automation: You can’t create rules like “If front door opens, turn on porch light and show Arlo front door feed on Alarm.com dashboard.”
• Remote Viewing: While you can view Arlo feeds on your phone, they won’t appear in the Alarm.com web portal or dealer dashboard.

Workarounds: How to Use Arlo With Alarm.com (With Trade-Offs)

Option 1: Use Both Systems Side by Side

The simplest (but least elegant) solution is to run both systems independently. Keep your Alarm.com panel for monitoring, sensors, and automation, and use Arlo cameras for video. Here’s how:

• Set Up Arlo Separately: Install Arlo cameras using the Arlo app. Subscribe to Arlo Smart (if you want cloud storage).
• Use Both Apps: Check the Alarm.com app for system status and the Arlo app for live feeds.
• Manual Correlation: If your Alarm.com alarm goes off, open the Arlo app to check for motion clips.

Pros:

• Full access to Arlo’s features (e.g., AI detection, color night vision)
• No need to replace existing cameras
• Works immediately

Cons:

• Two apps, two logins
• No automation between systems
• Risk of missing Arlo alerts if you’re not actively checking

Tip: Use phone widgets to keep both apps’ shortcuts on your home screen. I also set up a routine in Google Home to say “Good morning” and show my Arlo front door feed on my Nest Hub—it’s not perfect, but it helps.

Option 2: Third-Party Integrations (IFTTT, Home Assistant)

If you’re tech-savvy, you can bridge the gap with automation platforms like IFTTT (If This Then That) or Home Assistant.

Using IFTTT

IFTTT has pre-built applets for Arlo and Alarm.com. For example:

• “When Arlo detects motion, send a notification to Alarm.com via email”
• “If Alarm.com alarm is triggered, send a push notification to your phone with a link to Arlo live feed”

To set this up:

1. Create an IFTTT account and connect your Arlo and Alarm.com services.
2. Search for existing applets (e.g., “Arlo motion to Alarm.com email”).
3. Customize the applet with your email or phone number.

Limitations: IFTTT can’t pull live video or trigger Alarm.com actions directly. It’s more of a notification bridge.

Using Home Assistant

Home Assistant (HA) is a powerful open-source home automation hub. With HA, you can:

• Stream Arlo camera feeds to a dashboard
• Trigger Arlo recordings when Alarm.com sensors activate
• Create custom alerts (e.g., “Back door opened + Arlo motion = send SMS”)

Tip: Use the “Arlo for Home Assistant” integration and “Alarm.com” integration. You’ll need to run HA on a Raspberry Pi or server, but it’s worth it for full control.

Option 3: Replace Arlo With Alarm.com-Compatible Cameras

If seamless integration is your priority, consider replacing Arlo with Alarm.com-certified cameras. For example:

• ADC-V724 (outdoor, 1080p, weatherproof)
• ADC-VC727P (indoor, pan-tilt-zoom)
• ADC-VC827P (doorbell, 1080p, two-way talk)

Pros:

• Full integration with Alarm.com monitoring and automation
• Video verification for alarms
• Single app for everything

Cons:

• Lower video quality than Arlo Pro 3/4 (most are 1080p)
• No color night vision (IR only)
• Wired power (less flexible for outdoor installs)
• Higher cost through dealers

Real Talk: I replaced two Arlo cameras with ADC-V724s for my back yard. The video is good enough, but I miss Arlo’s 2K clarity and easy battery swaps. It’s a trade-off between convenience and integration.

Data Table: Arlo vs. Alarm.com Cameras – Key Features Compared

Feature	Arlo Pro 4 (Wireless)	Alarm.com ADC-V724 (Wired)
Video Resolution	2K HDR	1080p
Night Vision	Color (with spotlight)	IR (black & white)
Power Source	Rechargeable battery or solar	PoE (Power over Ethernet)
Storage	Cloud (Arlo Smart) or microSD	Cloud (Alarm.com) or SD card
Motion Detection	AI (person/vehicle/package)	Basic (motion zones)
Alarm.com Integration	❌ Not supported	✅ Full support
Professional Monitoring	❌ No	✅ Yes (via dealer)
Price (MSRP)	$199 (single cam)	$229 (single cam, through dealer)

Note: Alarm.com cameras often require a dealer subscription (e.g., $30–$50/month) for monitoring and cloud storage. Arlo’s cloud storage starts at $2.99/month per camera.

Expert Tips: Maximizing Your Setup (No Matter What You Choose)

1. Prioritize Your Needs

Ask yourself:

• Do I need professional monitoring? If yes, Alarm.com-compatible cameras are worth the trade-offs.
• Do I value wireless convenience and 2K video? Arlo might be better, even with dual apps.
• Am I willing to DIY automation? Home Assistant can bridge the gap.

2. Leverage Local Storage

Both Arlo and Alarm.com cameras support SD cards. Use them to:

• Reduce cloud storage costs
• Ensure clips are saved if the internet goes down
• Keep sensitive footage off the cloud

Tip: Use a 256GB card in your Arlo camera. For Alarm.com, check the max supported size (usually 128GB).

3. Optimize Motion Detection

False alerts are the #1 complaint with smart cameras. To reduce them:

• Arlo: Use activity zones and AI detection (requires Arlo Smart)
• Alarm.com: Adjust motion sensitivity in the app and avoid aiming cameras at trees or busy streets

4. Consider a Hybrid Approach

Use Alarm.com-compatible cameras for critical areas (front door, back yard) and Arlo for secondary spots (garage, side gate). This gives you the best of both worlds.

For example, my setup:

• Front door: ADC-VC827P (Alarm.com doorbell)
• Back yard: ADC-V724 (wired, full integration)
• Side gate: Arlo Pro 3 (wireless, easy to move)

5. Talk to Your Dealer

Alarm.com dealers sometimes offer custom integrations. For example, one dealer told me they could use a third-party NVR to pull Arlo feeds into the Alarm.com dashboard (though it’s not officially supported). It never hurts to ask!

Final Verdict: The Bottom Line

So, are Arlo cameras compatible with Alarm.com? Directly? No. But that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. The real answer depends on what you value most in your home security setup.

If you’re all-in on professional monitoring, automation, and a unified system, bite the bullet and switch to Alarm.com-certified cameras. Yes, you’ll sacrifice some video quality and wireless convenience, but you’ll gain peace of mind knowing your entire system works together—especially during an emergency.

But if you’re a DIYer who loves Arlo’s flexibility and cutting-edge features, don’t despair. You can absolutely use Arlo cameras alongside your Alarm.com system. It’ll take a little more effort (two apps, manual checks, maybe some IFTTT tinkering), but you’ll keep the cameras you love while still benefiting from professional monitoring for sensors, locks, and automation.

And for the tech enthusiasts? Dive into Home Assistant. It’s the ultimate Swiss Army knife for mixed ecosystems. I spent a weekend setting it up, and now I have a single dashboard that shows my Alarm.com status, Arlo feeds, and even triggers custom alerts. It’s not for everyone, but it’s a game-changer if you’re willing to learn.

At the end of the day, home security isn’t about having the “perfect” system—it’s about having a system that works for you. Whether that means choosing one brand or creatively combining two, what matters is that you feel safe, in control, and confident in your setup. And hey, if you ever need a sounding board, I’ve been there. We’re all just trying to figure it out—one camera at a time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Arlo cameras compatible with Alarm.com?

No, Arlo cameras are not natively compatible with Alarm.com. While both platforms offer robust security features, they operate on separate ecosystems and do not integrate directly through official channels.

Can I use my Arlo cameras with Alarm.com for professional monitoring?

Unfortunately, you cannot use Arlo cameras for Alarm.com’s professional monitoring services. Alarm.com requires its own branded devices or select third-party equipment that has been certified for integration.

Is there a workaround to connect Arlo cameras to Alarm.com?

Some users attempt workarounds using screen-sharing tools or IP camera bridges, but these methods are unreliable and not officially supported. For seamless functionality, it’s best to use Alarm.com-certified cameras.

Why doesn’t Alarm.com support Arlo camera compatibility?

Alarm.com maintains strict compatibility standards to ensure performance and reliability. Arlo’s proprietary software and communication protocols differ significantly from Alarm.com’s requirements, preventing official integration.

Which security cameras work with Alarm.com?

Alarm.com supports a range of its own branded cameras and select third-party devices, including certain IP cameras from brands like Qolsys and DSC. Always check Alarm.com’s compatibility list before purchasing.

Can I switch from Arlo to Alarm.com without replacing all my equipment?

You’ll likely need to replace Arlo cameras with Alarm.com-compatible models for full functionality. However, some sensors or hubs may be reusable depending on your Alarm.com plan and system configuration.