Are Arlo Cameras Compatible With Simplisafe A Complete Guide

Arlo cameras are not natively compatible with SimpliSafe systems, meaning you can’t integrate them directly through official apps or hubs. However, workarounds like IFTTT or third-party platforms allow limited automation between the two brands for basic alerts and triggers. For seamless functionality, SimpliSafe’s own cameras remain the best choice.

Key Takeaways

• No native compatibility: Arlo and SimpliSafe systems don’t integrate directly out of the box.
• Use third-party apps: Leverage IFTTT or Home Assistant for limited cross-platform functionality.
• Cloud storage conflicts: Footage won’t sync between Arlo and SimpliSafe cloud services.
• Manual monitoring required: Switch between separate apps for full surveillance coverage.
• Stick to one ecosystem: SimpliSafe cameras offer seamless integration with its own hub and sensors.
• Future updates unlikely: No official plans for compatibility from either brand.

The Smart Home Dilemma: Mixing Arlo and SimpliSafe

Imagine this: You’ve just moved into a new home, and you’re determined to make it a fortress of peace and security. You’ve heard great things about Arlo cameras—their sleek design, night vision, and crystal-clear video quality. But when it comes to a full security system, SimpliSafe catches your eye with its no-contract monitoring, easy DIY setup, and trusted reputation. Now comes the big question: Are Arlo cameras compatible with SimpliSafe? Can you have the best of both worlds—top-tier cameras and a reliable, user-friendly security system?

If you’ve ever stood in your living room, camera in one hand and a SimpliSafe sensor in the other, wondering if they’ll play nice together, you’re not alone. Many smart homeowners face this dilemma. You want a cohesive, seamless security ecosystem, not a collection of disconnected devices that don’t talk to each other. The good news? While Arlo and SimpliSafe aren’t officially partnered, there are ways to make them work together—with some caveats. This guide will walk you through the compatibility landscape, the pros and cons, workarounds, and real-life setups so you can make an informed decision without pulling your hair out.

Understanding Arlo and SimpliSafe: The Basics

What Are Arlo Cameras?

Arlo, a brand under Netgear, specializes in wireless, Wi-Fi-based security cameras. They’re known for their weather-resistant outdoor models, advanced motion detection, AI-powered alerts (like person, package, or vehicle detection), and integration with smart home platforms like Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit. Popular models include the Arlo Pro 4, Arlo Ultra, and Arlo Essential series. These cameras typically connect to a base station or directly to your Wi-Fi, and they rely on cloud storage (with optional local backup).

What Is SimpliSafe?

SimpliSafe is a DIY home security system that offers a full suite of devices: door/window sensors, motion detectors, glass break sensors, panic buttons, and indoor/outdoor cameras. Unlike Arlo, SimpliSafe is a closed ecosystem—its devices are designed to work together via a central hub (the SimpliSafe base station) and a cellular backup connection. SimpliSafe also offers professional monitoring (optional) with 24/7 support, panic response, and emergency dispatch.

Key Differences in Philosophy

• Connectivity: Arlo uses Wi-Fi and cloud-centric storage. SimpliSafe uses a proprietary wireless protocol (RF) between sensors and the base station, with cellular backup for monitoring.

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• Ecosystem: Arlo is more open, supporting third-party integrations. SimpliSafe is tightly integrated but limited in third-party compatibility.
• Monitoring: SimpliSafe includes monitoring in its plans. Arlo requires separate subscriptions for cloud storage and advanced features.
• Setup: Both are DIY, but SimpliSafe’s system is designed to work out of the box with minimal configuration.

These differences explain why direct compatibility isn’t baked in—but it doesn’t mean it’s impossible.

Are Arlo Cameras Officially Compatible With SimpliSafe?

The Short Answer: No (But There’s Nuance)

Let’s cut to the chase: Arlo cameras are not officially compatible with SimpliSafe. SimpliSafe does not support Arlo devices in its app, and Arlo doesn’t list SimpliSafe as a partner. You can’t arm or disarm your Arlo system through the SimpliSafe app, and Arlo won’t trigger SimpliSafe sensors or vice versa.

SimpliSafe’s ecosystem is built around its own devices. For example, when a SimpliSafe door sensor detects an open door, it can trigger the SimpliSafe camera to record. But if you have an Arlo camera, it won’t “know” about that sensor event. The two systems live in separate digital worlds.

Why Don’t They Work Together?

• Different Communication Protocols: Arlo uses Wi-Fi and cloud APIs. SimpliSafe uses RF and cellular, with no public API for third-party integrations.
• No Shared App or Hub: There’s no single dashboard where you can view Arlo feeds and SimpliSafe sensor status side by side.
• Lack of Automation Triggers: You can’t set up a rule like, “If SimpliSafe detects motion, start recording on Arlo.”
• Proprietary Ecosystems: SimpliSafe wants you to use its cameras. Arlo wants you to use its ecosystem (like Arlo Secure for monitoring).

So if you’re looking for plug-and-play integration, you’ll be disappointed. But don’t give up yet—there are workarounds.

Workarounds and Integration Options

Option 1: Use Both Systems Side by Side

The simplest solution? Run both systems independently. Use SimpliSafe for entry points (doors, windows, motion) and Arlo for high-quality video coverage (front porch, backyard, driveway). You’ll have:

• SimpliSafe app for arming/disarming, sensor alerts, and monitoring.
• Arlo app for live video, motion detection, cloud storage, and smart alerts.

Pros: Full functionality of both systems. No technical hurdles.

Cons: Two apps, two subscriptions, two logins. Slightly more complex daily management.

Pro Tip: Place Arlo cameras where SimpliSafe’s indoor camera can’t reach—like your front gate or backyard. Use SimpliSafe sensors to trigger lights or alarms, while Arlo handles visual verification.

Option 2: Smart Home Automation (IFTTT or Alexa)

Here’s where things get fun. You can use IFTTT (If This Then That) or Amazon Alexa routines to create limited automation between Arlo and SimpliSafe.

• IFTTT Example: “If SimpliSafe is armed, turn on Arlo’s motion recording.” Or, “If Arlo detects a person at the front door, send a notification to your phone and turn on the porch light.”
• Alexa Routine Example: “When SimpliSafe detects motion, show Arlo’s front door camera on your Echo Show.”

How It Works:

1. Connect both Arlo and SimpliSafe to your Alexa account (via the Alexa app).
2. Go to the Alexa app > Routines > Create Routine.
3. Set a trigger: “SimpliSafe sensor detected motion.”
4. Set an action: “Show video from Arlo Front Door camera.”
5. Save and test.

Pros: Adds automation. Reduces app switching. Works with voice commands.

Cons: Limited to basic triggers. Not real-time (delays up to 30 seconds). No two-way communication.

Real-Life Example: One homeowner set up a routine where if the SimpliSafe motion detector in the living room triggered at night, the Arlo camera in the hallway would start recording and send a push notification. It’s not perfect, but it adds a layer of coordination.

Option 3: Use a Smart Hub (Samsung SmartThings)

Samsung SmartThings supports both Arlo and SimpliSafe (via IFTTT or community-developed integrations). You can create more advanced automations:

• “If SimpliSafe is armed and Arlo detects motion, sound the SimpliSafe alarm.”
• “If Arlo sees a package, send a photo to your Google Home Hub.”

Steps:

1. Set up a SmartThings hub.
2. Add Arlo as a device (via SmartThings integration).
3. Connect SimpliSafe to IFTTT, then link IFTTT to SmartThings.
4. Create custom automations in SmartThings.

Pros: More powerful than IFTTT alone. Centralized control.

Cons: Requires extra hardware (SmartThings hub). Setup is technical. May have reliability issues.

Option 4: Use a Third-Party Automation Platform (Home Assistant)

For tech-savvy users, Home Assistant offers the deepest integration. It can pull data from both Arlo and SimpliSafe (via community add-ons) and create custom dashboards, automations, and alerts.

• Create a single dashboard showing Arlo feeds and SimpliSafe sensor status.
• Set up complex rules: “If SimpliSafe is armed and Arlo detects motion for more than 10 seconds, call the police.”
• Use AI to reduce false alerts (e.g., ignore Arlo alerts during SimpliSafe’s “home” mode).

Pros: Total control. No subscriptions. Works offline.

Cons: Steep learning curve. Requires a server (Raspberry Pi or NAS). Not beginner-friendly.

Pros and Cons of Mixing Arlo and SimpliSafe

The Good: Why You Might Want Both

• Superior Video Quality: Arlo cameras (especially Pro and Ultra models) offer 2K or 4K resolution, color night vision, and wider fields of view than SimpliSafe’s cameras.
• Flexible Placement: Arlo’s wireless design means you can place cameras anywhere with Wi-Fi—no need for wiring or a base station nearby.
• Advanced AI Detection: Arlo can distinguish between people, packages, vehicles, and animals, reducing false alerts.
• Smart Home Integration: Arlo works with Alexa, Google, Apple, and IFTTT—great if you have other smart devices.
• No Contracts: Like SimpliSafe, Arlo offers no long-term contracts (though cloud storage requires a subscription).

The Not-So-Good: The Trade-Offs

• Two Apps, Two Subscriptions: You’ll pay for both SimpliSafe monitoring and Arlo Secure (if you want cloud storage and AI detection).
• No True Integration: You can’t arm/disarm both systems together. No shared alerts or automation without workarounds.
• Wi-Fi Dependency: Arlo cameras rely on Wi-Fi. If your internet goes down, you lose live streaming and cloud access (though local recording may still work).
• Battery Management: Arlo cameras (especially wireless ones) require frequent battery changes or solar charging. SimpliSafe sensors last 3–5 years on a single battery.
• Setup Complexity: Running two systems means double the setup, troubleshooting, and maintenance.

Cost Comparison (Annual, Approximate)

Service	SimpliSafe	Arlo
Monitoring/Cloud Storage	$24.99/month (Fast Protect)	$2.99–$14.99/month (Arlo Secure)
Total (12 Months)	$299.88	$35.88–$179.88
Combined Total	$335.76–$479.76
Key Features Included	24/7 monitoring, emergency dispatch, video storage (if you have SimpliSafe cameras)	Cloud storage, AI detection, smart alerts, activity zones

As you can see, combining both systems can get pricey. But if you value Arlo’s video quality and SimpliSafe’s reliability, it might be worth it.

Real-World Scenarios: Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Mix Arlo and SimpliSafe

Ideal for These Situations

• Large Properties: If you have a big yard, driveway, or multiple entry points, Arlo’s wireless cameras can cover areas SimpliSafe’s wired cameras can’t.
• High-Traffic Areas: Use Arlo for package delivery monitoring (AI can detect packages) and SimpliSafe for door/window sensors.
• Tech-Savvy Homeowners: If you’re comfortable with IFTTT, Alexa routines, or Home Assistant, you can bridge the gap.
• Existing Users: If you already have Arlo cameras and want to add SimpliSafe (or vice versa), it’s a smart upgrade path.

Not Ideal for These Situations

• Simple Setups: If you just need a basic system for a small apartment, pick one or the other. SimpliSafe’s all-in-one approach is easier.
• Budget-Conscious Buyers: The combined cost of two subscriptions and devices can be steep.
• Minimalists: If you hate juggling multiple apps, stick with one ecosystem.
• Renters: Arlo’s wireless design is great for renters, but SimpliSafe’s sensors require wall mounting. Choose based on your lease terms.

Real-Life Example: The Smith Family

The Smiths live in a two-story house with a large front yard and a detached garage. They wanted:

• Reliable entry detection (doors, windows).
• Video coverage of the front porch (for packages) and garage (for cars).
• 24/7 monitoring.

They chose SimpliSafe for sensors and monitoring and added Arlo Pro 4 cameras for the front porch and garage. They used Alexa routines to show Arlo feeds on their Echo Show when SimpliSafe detected motion. They pay $30/month for SimpliSafe monitoring and $10/month for Arlo Secure. It’s not seamless, but it gives them peace of mind.

Final Thoughts: Should You Combine Arlo and SimpliSafe?

So, are Arlo cameras compatible with SimpliSafe? Not officially—but with creativity, you can make them work together. Think of it like a blended family: they don’t share DNA, but with effort, they can coexist and even thrive.

If you value high-quality video, flexible camera placement, and advanced AI features, Arlo is a fantastic choice. If you prioritize reliable monitoring, easy setup, and a cohesive sensor system, SimpliSafe shines. By using both, you get the strengths of each—just don’t expect them to hold hands and sing kumbaya.

The key is setting realistic expectations. You won’t get one app, one dashboard, or one subscription. But with tools like Alexa, IFTTT, or Home Assistant, you can create a semi-integrated system that feels unified. And in the end, that’s what matters: feeling safe, not overwhelmed.

Before you buy, ask yourself:

• How much time am I willing to spend setting up automations?
• Can I handle two apps and two subscriptions?
• Do I really need Arlo’s video quality, or is SimpliSafe’s camera enough?

If the answer is “yes,” go for it. Your smart home doesn’t have to be perfect—just effective. And with Arlo and SimpliSafe working in tandem, you’re one step closer to that peace of mind you’ve been searching for.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Arlo cameras compatible with Simplisafe systems?

No, Arlo cameras are not natively compatible with Simplisafe systems. Both brands use proprietary software and hubs, which prevents direct integration for live viewing, alerts, or automation within a single app.

Can I use Arlo and Simplisafe cameras together in one security setup?

While you can’t sync them in one interface, you can use Arlo and Simplisafe cameras side-by-side by managing each through their respective apps. This allows a hybrid setup but requires switching between platforms for monitoring.

Is there a workaround to integrate Arlo cameras with Simplisafe?

There’s no official integration, but tech-savvy users may use third-party services like IFTTT or Home Assistant to bridge limited functions (e.g., motion-triggered alerts). However, full compatibility—like shared automation or unified feeds—isn’t possible.

Why aren’t Arlo and Simplisafe compatible despite both being popular brands?

Arlo and Simplisafe prioritize ecosystem lock-in, using closed software and hardware protocols. This ensures reliability within their own systems but limits cross-brand compatibility, a common issue in the smart home industry.

Does Simplisafe support any third-party cameras like Arlo?

Simplisafe’s system is designed to work exclusively with its own devices. While Simplisafe offers a range of cameras, it doesn’t support third-party cameras like Arlo, Ring, or Nest for unified control.

Are there plans for future Arlo-Simplisafe compatibility?

Neither brand has announced plans for integration. Compatibility would require collaboration on API access and hardware protocols, which is unlikely due to competitive market positioning and proprietary ecosystems.