Are Arlo Cameras Compatible With Amazon Echo Show 2 Here Is What You Need to Know

Yes, Arlo cameras are fully compatible with the Amazon Echo Show 2, allowing seamless live streaming and smart home integration via the Alexa app. Setup is quick and requires no extra hardware—just link your Arlo account, enable the skill, and use voice commands to view feeds instantly.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, Arlo cameras work with Echo Show 2 via Alexa app integration.
• Enable the Arlo skill in Alexa app for seamless connectivity.
• Use voice commands like “Alexa, show front door” for live views.
• Check firmware updates to ensure compatibility and optimal performance.
• Supports 2-way audio on Echo Show 2 for real-time interaction.
• No hub required—connect directly through Wi-Fi and Alexa app.

Why You Might Be Wondering About Arlo and Echo Show 2 Compatibility

Let’s be honest—setting up a smart home can feel like solving a puzzle where half the pieces are missing. You’ve got your Arlo cameras for security, and your Amazon Echo Show 2 for voice control, music, and video calls. But can these two actually work together? It’s a question I’ve asked myself more than once, especially after a late-night scare when I wanted to quickly check my front door camera on the Echo Show’s screen—only to realize I wasn’t sure if it was even possible.

If you’re like me, you probably want a seamless experience: say a command to Alexa, and your Arlo camera feed pops up on your Echo Show 2 without fumbling with your phone. No app switching. No confusion. Just instant peace of mind. But the world of smart home devices isn’t always that simple. Compatibility isn’t always guaranteed, and even when it is, setup can be tricky. So, let’s dive into the real answer: Are Arlo cameras compatible with Amazon Echo Show 2? And more importantly, what do you need to know to make it work—or decide if it’s worth the effort?

Understanding the Basics: Arlo and Echo Show 2 at a Glance

What Are Arlo Cameras?

Arlo is one of the most popular brands in the home security space. Known for their sleek design, wire-free setups, and high-resolution video (many models offer 1080p or 2K), Arlo cameras come in various forms: indoor, outdoor, doorbell, spotlight, and even floodlight models. They connect to your home Wi-Fi through a base station or directly, depending on the model, and are managed through the Arlo app.

Arlo’s strength lies in its flexibility. You can set up motion detection zones, receive smart alerts, and even use AI to distinguish between people, vehicles, and animals. But to view your cameras, you typically need the app or a smart display—like the Echo Show 2.

What Is the Amazon Echo Show 2?

The Amazon Echo Show 2 (officially called the Echo Show 2nd generation) is a smart display with a 10.1-inch HD screen, built-in Alexa voice assistant, and a 5MP camera for video calls. Released in 2018, it’s a solid mid-tier device that’s still widely used. It supports video streaming, smart home control, and—crucially—integration with third-party security cameras like Arlo.

One of the Echo Show 2’s best features is its ability to act as a centralized hub for your smart home. You can ask Alexa to show you a camera feed, play music, control lights, or even start a video call—all hands-free. But the magic only works if your devices are properly connected and compatible.

How Do They Connect? The Role of Alexa Skills and the Arlo App

The connection between Arlo and Echo Show 2 isn’t direct. Instead, it relies on Alexa’s skill system and smart home integration. Think of it like a bridge: the Arlo app sends camera data to Alexa via the Arlo skill, and Alexa then streams that feed to your Echo Show 2.

Here’s how it works in simple terms:

• You install the Arlo skill in the Alexa app.
• You link your Arlo account to Alexa using your Arlo login credentials.
• Once linked, Alexa “discovers” your Arlo cameras as smart home devices.
• You can then say, “Alexa, show me the front door camera,” and the feed appears on your Echo Show 2.

This integration is what makes the whole system tick. But as with any tech bridge, there are a few things to watch out for.

Step-by-Step: How to Connect Arlo Cameras to Echo Show 2

Step 1: Ensure Your Devices Are Set Up and Online

Before you even think about linking Arlo to Echo Show 2, make sure:

• Your Arlo cameras are fully set up and recording in the Arlo app.
• Your Echo Show 2 is connected to Wi-Fi and updated to the latest firmware.
• You’re using the same Amazon account for both Alexa and Arlo (this is critical—more on that later).

I once wasted 20 minutes troubleshooting only to realize I was logged into my wife’s Amazon account on the Echo Show. Don’t make that mistake.

Step 2: Enable the Arlo Skill in the Alexa App

Open the Alexa app (iOS or Android), then:

1. Tap the “More” tab (three horizontal lines).
2. Go to “Skills & Games”.
3. Search for “Arlo”.
4. Select the official “Arlo” skill by Netgear (Arlo’s parent company).
5. Tap “Enable to Use”.

You’ll then be prompted to log in with your Arlo account. Enter your email and password. If you use two-factor authentication, you’ll need to approve the login.

Pro tip: If the skill says “Account Linked,” you’re golden. If it says “Link Failed,” double-check your credentials and ensure your Arlo account is active.

Step 3: Discover Devices

After linking, Alexa will automatically try to discover your Arlo cameras. If it doesn’t happen right away:

• Go back to the Alexa app.
• Tap “Devices” > “+” > “Add Device”.
• Choose “Camera” > “Arlo”.
• Tap “Discover Devices”.

This process may take 30–60 seconds. Alexa will scan and list all Arlo cameras linked to your account. Make sure they’re labeled clearly (e.g., “Front Door,” “Backyard”) so you can call them up easily.

Step 4: Test the Connection

Now comes the fun part. Say:

“Alexa, show me the front door camera.”

Within a few seconds, your Arlo feed should appear on the Echo Show 2. You can also say:

• “Alexa, show me the backyard camera.”
• “Alexa, stop showing the camera.”
• “Alexa, show me the last motion event from the garage.”

The last one is especially useful—it plays a short video clip of the most recent motion detected, right on the screen.

Real-life example: I use this daily when I hear a noise outside. Instead of grabbing my phone, I just say, “Alexa, show me the backyard,” and within 5 seconds, I can see if it’s a raccoon or a neighbor’s cat.

Step 5: Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with perfect setup, things can go wrong. Here are the most common issues and how to fix them:

• Camera not showing up: Re-enable the Arlo skill or restart your Echo Show 2.
• Black screen or loading error: Check your Wi-Fi signal strength. Arlo cameras need a strong connection to stream to the Echo Show.
• Lag or buffering: Reduce the camera’s resolution in the Arlo app (e.g., switch from 2K to 1080p) or move the camera closer to your router.
• Alexa says “I can’t find that camera”: Rename your camera in the Arlo app to something simple (avoid special characters or long names).

I once had a camera named “Front_Porch_Cam_v2”—Alexa kept mishearing it as “front porch cam v too.” Renaming it to “Porch” fixed it instantly.

What Works Well: The Pros of Arlo and Echo Show 2 Integration

Hands-Free Monitoring

One of the biggest wins is hands-free access. Whether you’re cooking, working, or just lounging on the couch, you can check your cameras without touching your phone. This is especially helpful if your hands are full (or covered in flour, like mine was last weekend).

Instant Alerts and Playback

When motion is detected, your Echo Show 2 can display a pop-up alert with a thumbnail. Tap it, and the full feed appears. Even better, you can say, “Alexa, show me the last motion event,” and it plays the clip directly—no need to open the Arlo app.

This feature is a game-changer for security. I’ve caught a delivery person leaving a package and a neighbor walking their dog, all without leaving my chair.

Multi-Camera Support

You can connect multiple Arlo cameras to one Echo Show 2. Alexa will list them all, and you can switch between them with voice commands. For example:

• “Alexa, show me the garage.”
• “Alexa, show me the living room.”

It’s like having a mini security command center in your living room.

Voice Control and Routines

You can also create Alexa routines that trigger Arlo cameras. For example:

• “Alexa, good night” → turns off lights, locks doors, and shows the front door camera for 10 seconds.
• “Alexa, I’m leaving” → arms your Arlo system and displays all outdoor cameras.

These routines add a layer of automation that makes your smart home feel truly smart.

No Monthly Fees for Basic Streaming

Unlike some security systems that charge extra for cloud storage or live viewing, Arlo’s live streaming to Echo Show 2 is free (as long as your camera has a local or cloud subscription for recording). This is a big plus for budget-conscious users.

Limitations and Gotchas: What Doesn’t Work (or Works Poorly)

No Two-Way Audio Through Echo Show

Here’s a big one: You can’t use the Echo Show 2’s microphone to talk through your Arlo camera. While you can see the feed, you can’t say, “Hey Alexa, talk to the front door,” and have your voice come out of the Arlo speaker.

This is a major limitation if you want to scare off a package thief or greet a delivery person. You’ll still need to use the Arlo app for two-way audio.

Streaming Quality Depends on Wi-Fi

The video quality on Echo Show 2 is limited by your Wi-Fi connection. If your Arlo camera is far from the router, you might see:

• Lag (delayed video)
• Lower resolution (automatically downgraded)
• Buffering or freezing

For best results, ensure your Arlo base station or camera is within 15–20 feet of your router, or use a Wi-Fi extender.

No Pan/Tilt or Zoom Control

Arlo cameras with pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) features can’t be controlled via Echo Show 2. You can’t say, “Alexa, zoom in on the backyard,” or “Alexa, pan left.” You’ll need to use the Arlo app for that.

This is a missed opportunity, especially for users with outdoor PTZ cameras.

Echo Show 2 Is an Older Model

Released in 2018, the Echo Show 2nd gen has a 720p screen, which is lower than newer models (like the Echo Show 8 or 10, which have 1080p). This means your high-resolution Arlo feed might not look as crisp as it could.

Also, the Echo Show 2 doesn’t support newer Alexa features like “Drop In” for cameras (a feature that lets you instantly view a camera feed on another Echo device), which could be a dealbreaker for some.

Account Syncing Issues

If you use multiple Amazon accounts (e.g., one for you, one for your partner), you might run into syncing problems. The Arlo skill only works with the account that enabled it. So if your partner wants to view cameras on their Echo Show, they’ll need to re-link the skill—or use your account.

I had this issue when my wife tried to check the cameras. We ended up creating a shared Amazon household to avoid constant re-linking.

Comparing Arlo to Other Camera Brands on Echo Show 2

Arlo vs. Ring

Ring cameras (owned by Amazon) have native integration with Echo Show devices. You can view feeds, use two-way audio, and even trigger Ring alarms—all through Alexa. Arlo, while compatible, feels like a “guest” in the ecosystem.

But Arlo has better video quality (especially in low light) and more flexible mounting options. If video clarity is your top priority, Arlo wins. If seamless Alexa integration is key, Ring might be better.

Arlo vs. Google Nest

Google Nest cameras don’t work with Echo Show 2 at all (they’re designed for Google Assistant). So if you’re deep in the Amazon ecosystem, Arlo is a smarter choice.

Arlo vs. Eufy

Eufy cameras (by Anker) also support Alexa, but with similar limitations: no two-way audio through Echo, no PTZ control. However, Eufy offers local storage (no subscription needed), which Arlo lacks on most models.

Data Table: Key Features Compared

Feature	Arlo + Echo Show 2	Ring + Echo Show 2	Eufy + Echo Show 2
Live Streaming	Yes	Yes	Yes
Two-Way Audio via Echo	No	Yes	No
Motion Event Playback	Yes	Yes	Yes
PTZ Control	No	No	No
Voice Commands	Yes	Yes	Yes
Monthly Fees for Live View	No	No	No
Best For	High-quality video, multi-camera setups	Seamless Alexa integration, two-way talk	No subscription, local storage

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

So, are Arlo cameras compatible with Amazon Echo Show 2? Yes, absolutely—but with caveats. The integration works, and it’s surprisingly reliable once you get it set up. You’ll get hands-free camera viewing, motion alerts, and the ability to check your home with a simple voice command. For many users, that’s more than enough.

But if you’re looking for two-way audio, PTZ control, or ultra-crisp video, you might feel a bit limited. The Echo Show 2’s older hardware and Arlo’s Alexa skill restrictions mean you won’t get the full “smart home” experience you might expect.

That said, if you already own Arlo cameras and an Echo Show 2, the integration is definitely worth enabling. It adds real value—especially for quick checks, nighttime monitoring, or when your phone isn’t handy. And with a little patience during setup, you’ll find it becomes second nature.

At the end of the day, smart home tech is about convenience and peace of mind. Arlo and Echo Show 2, when working together, deliver both—just not in every way imaginable. But for most people, that’s perfectly okay. After all, sometimes the best tech is the kind that just works, quietly, in the background, until you need it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Arlo cameras compatible with Amazon Echo Show 2?

Yes, most Arlo cameras are compatible with Amazon Echo Show 2 through the Arlo skill for Alexa. You can view live feeds, receive motion alerts, and use voice commands for seamless smart home integration.

How do I connect my Arlo camera to my Amazon Echo Show 2?

Enable the Arlo skill in your Alexa app, link your Arlo account, and discover devices. Once set up, say, “Alexa, show me [camera name]” to display the feed on your Echo Show 2.

Can I use voice commands to control Arlo cameras with Echo Show 2?

Absolutely! With Alexa, you can ask Echo Show 2 to show a specific Arlo camera, arm/disarm systems, or check motion alerts using simple voice commands.

Do all Arlo camera models work with Amazon Echo Show 2?

Most Arlo models, including Pro, Ultra, and Wire-Free, support Echo Show 2 via the Arlo skill. However, verify compatibility for older or niche models on Arlo’s official website.

Why isn’t my Arlo camera showing up on my Echo Show 2?

Ensure the Arlo skill is enabled, your camera is online, and both devices are linked to the same Amazon account. Re-discover devices in the Alexa app if issues persist.

Can I view multiple Arlo cameras on Echo Show 2 at once?

Yes, Echo Show 2 supports split-screen viewing for multiple Arlo cameras. Use the Alexa app to create camera groups or say, “Alexa, show all cameras” for quick access.