Can Arlo Cameras Connect to TV A Complete Guide

Yes, Arlo cameras can connect to your TV seamlessly using methods like screen mirroring, HDMI adapters, or smart home integrations such as Google Chromecast and Amazon Fire TV. This allows real-time monitoring and playback directly on your TV screen, enhancing home security visibility without needing a smartphone or tablet.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, Arlo cameras can connect to TVs via HDMI, casting, or smart home integrations.
• Use an Arlo SmartHub for seamless wired or wireless TV connectivity and better performance.
• Cast to Chromecast or AirPlay to stream live footage directly from the Arlo app.
• Enable motion alerts on TV by syncing cameras with Alexa or Google Assistant for real-time updates.
• Check compatibility first—not all Arlo models support direct TV connections without accessories.
• Optimize video quality by adjusting camera settings for smooth HD streaming on larger screens.

Why Connecting Your Arlo Camera to TV Is a Game-Changer

Imagine this: you’re relaxing on the couch, flipping through your favorite show, when suddenly you remember the package you were expecting. Instead of getting up, walking to your phone, and opening the Arlo app, you just grab your TV remote and switch to your front porch camera. Instantly, there it is—your package, safe and sound. That’s the magic of connecting your Arlo camera to your TV. It’s not just about convenience; it’s about peace of mind, real-time monitoring, and making smart home tech feel truly seamless.

Arlo cameras are already a popular choice for home security, thanks to their sleek design, reliable performance, and smart features. But many users don’t realize that their Arlo setup can go beyond phones and tablets. Whether you want to keep an eye on your kids playing in the backyard while cooking dinner or check who’s at the front door without interrupting your movie night, connecting your Arlo camera to your TV opens up a whole new level of functionality. The good news? It’s easier than you might think—and in this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know.

Understanding Your Arlo Camera and TV Compatibility

Before you start connecting your Arlo camera to your TV, it’s important to understand the compatibility between your devices. Not all Arlo models or TVs work the same way, and knowing the differences will save you time and frustration.

Which Arlo Cameras Support TV Viewing?

Most modern Arlo cameras—including the Arlo Pro 4, Arlo Ultra, Arlo Essential, Arlo Go, and Arlo Video Doorbell—support streaming to a TV, but the method varies. Older models like the original Arlo or Arlo Pro 2 may have limited options, especially if they rely solely on the Arlo app without integration with smart platforms.

The key factor? Your camera must be connected to the Arlo SmartHub or Base Station, which acts as the central hub for your system. This is crucial because the hub enables features like local storage and direct streaming to compatible devices, including TVs via certain methods.

For example, if you have an Arlo Pro 4 connected to a SmartHub, you can use it with smart TV platforms. But if you’re using a standalone Arlo Essential (Wi-Fi only, no hub), your options are more limited to app-based casting or screen mirroring.

TV Compatibility: Smart vs. Non-Smart TVs

Your TV’s capabilities play a big role in how you’ll connect your Arlo camera. Here’s the breakdown:

• Smart TVs (Samsung, LG, Sony, TCL, Vizio, etc.): These are the easiest to work with. If your TV runs on platforms like Android TV, Roku TV, or Amazon Fire TV, you can install the Arlo app directly or use built-in casting features like Google Cast or AirPlay.

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• Non-Smart TVs (older models): Don’t worry—you’re not out of luck. You can use streaming devices like Google Chromecast, Amazon Fire TV Stick, or Apple TV to bridge the gap. These plug into your HDMI port and turn your regular TV into a smart one.
• TVs with HDMI input: Almost all modern TVs have this, so as long as you have a compatible streaming device, you’re covered.

Pro Tip: Check your TV’s manual or settings to see if it supports screen mirroring or has a built-in casting feature. Many Samsung TVs, for instance, have “Screen Mirroring” in the settings menu, which works great with Android phones and Chromecast.

Method 1: Using the Arlo App on Smart TVs (Direct Streaming)

If you have a smart TV, the easiest way to connect your Arlo camera is by using the Arlo app directly on your TV. This method gives you full access to your camera feeds, live viewing, and even two-way talk—all without touching your phone.

Step-by-Step: Installing the Arlo App on Your Smart TV

Let’s say you have a Sony Bravia with Android TV. Here’s how to get started:

1. Turn on your TV and go to the Google Play Store (available on Android TV and some other smart platforms).
2. Search for “Arlo” in the search bar.
3. Download and install the Arlo app (officially called “Arlo Smart Home”).
4. Open the app and log in with your Arlo account (the same one you use on your phone).
5. Once logged in, your cameras will appear on the screen. Tap on any camera to view live feed.
6. Use the remote to navigate between cameras, access recordings, or even use two-way audio if your camera supports it.

This method is smooth, intuitive, and doesn’t require extra hardware. I’ve used it with my Arlo Ultra 2, and the video quality on my 4K TV is crystal clear—almost like being there in person.

Supported Smart TV Platforms

• Android TV: Full Arlo app support. Works with Sony, TCL, Philips, and others.
• Fire TV (Amazon): Arlo app available via the Amazon Appstore. Works with Fire TV Stick and Fire TV Edition TVs.
• Roku TV: Arlo app available in the Roku Channel Store. Works with TCL, Hisense, Sharp, and others.
• Apple TV: While there’s no native Arlo app, you can use AirPlay (covered in Method 3).

Real-Life Example: My neighbor, Sarah, has a TCL Roku TV. She installed the Arlo app, and now her kids can wave at her from the backyard while she’s watching a movie. “It’s like having eyes in the back of my head,” she joked. “And no more yelling across the house!”

Limitations to Keep in Mind

While this method is great, it’s not perfect:

• The Arlo app on TVs may not support all features (e.g., advanced motion zones, AI detection) that are available on the mobile app.
• Some older smart TVs may experience slight lag during live viewing, especially with high-resolution cameras like the Arlo Ultra.
• You’ll need a stable Wi-Fi connection. If your TV is far from the router, consider using a Wi-Fi extender.

Method 2: Casting from Your Phone or Tablet (Screen Mirroring)

If your TV doesn’t have the Arlo app or you prefer using your phone, casting is a simple and effective alternative. This method lets you “mirror” your phone or tablet screen to your TV in real time.

Using Google Chromecast (Android & iOS)

Chromecast is one of the most popular casting devices, and it works seamlessly with Arlo.

1. Plug your Google Chromecast into an HDMI port on your TV.
2. Connect your phone and Chromecast to the same Wi-Fi network.
3. Open the Arlo app on your phone.
4. Tap the Cast icon (looks like a rectangle with Wi-Fi waves) in the top-right corner.
5. Select your Chromecast device from the list.
6. Your phone screen will appear on the TV. Open any Arlo camera feed, and it will stream live.

Tip: You can minimize the Arlo app or lock your phone—the feed will continue streaming on the TV. This is perfect for background monitoring while you do other things.

Using Apple AirPlay (iPhone & iPad)

If you’re in the Apple ecosystem, AirPlay is your best friend.

1. Ensure your Apple TV or AirPlay-compatible smart TV is on the same Wi-Fi as your iPhone.
2. Open the Arlo app and select the camera you want to view.
3. Swipe down from the top-right corner to open Control Center.
4. Tap Screen Mirroring and select your Apple TV.
5. Enter the on-screen code if prompted.
6. Your entire phone screen will appear on the TV. Open the Arlo camera feed, and you’re set.

Real-Life Example: I used this method during a family BBQ. While grilling, I casted my backyard Arlo camera to my TV so guests could see the kids playing safely. One friend said, “This is genius—I’m doing this at my house!”

Using Samsung Smart View (Samsung Phones & TVs)

If you have a Samsung phone and TV, you can use Smart View for quick casting.

• Swipe down from the top of your phone screen and tap Smart View.
• Select your Samsung TV from the list.
• Open the Arlo app and start viewing your camera.

Note: This method works best with newer Samsung devices and may not be available on all models.

Method 3: Using Streaming Devices (Fire Stick, Roku, Apple TV)

If your TV doesn’t support casting or the Arlo app directly, a streaming device is your best bet. These small, affordable gadgets plug into your HDMI port and unlock smart features.

Fire TV Stick (Amazon)

The Fire TV Stick is affordable and easy to use.

1. Plug the Fire Stick into your TV’s HDMI port.
2. Set it up and connect to Wi-Fi.
3. Go to the Amazon Appstore and search for “Arlo Smart Home.”
4. Download and install the app.
5. Log in with your Arlo account and start viewing.

Bonus: You can use voice commands with Alexa. Just say, “Alexa, show me the front door camera,” and it appears on screen.

Roku Streaming Stick

Roku devices are user-friendly and widely compatible.

• Plug in the Roku stick and follow setup instructions.
• Go to the Roku Channel Store and install the Arlo app.
• Log in and access your cameras.

Tip: Roku’s interface is simple, making it great for less tech-savvy users.

Apple TV

While there’s no native Arlo app, you can still use Apple TV with AirPlay (as described in Method 2) or by using the Arlo web portal via the Safari browser on Apple TV.

To use the web portal:

1. Open Safari on Apple TV.
2. Go to my.arlo.com.
3. Log in with your Arlo account.
4. Navigate to your camera feeds using the remote.

Note: This method is a bit clunky but works in a pinch.

Advanced Setup: Using a Computer or NVR for TV Viewing

For power users or those with multiple cameras, connecting your Arlo system to a computer or NVR (Network Video Recorder) can offer more control and flexibility.

Using Arlo’s Web Portal on a Laptop

You can stream your Arlo cameras to your TV by connecting a laptop via HDMI.

1. Open a web browser on your laptop.
2. Go to my.arlo.com and log in.
3. Select the camera you want to view.
4. Connect your laptop to your TV using an HDMI cable.
5. Extend or duplicate your screen (Windows: Win + P; Mac: System Settings > Displays).
6. Maximize the Arlo feed on the TV screen.

Real-Life Use: A small business owner I know uses this method to monitor his shop’s back entrance during meetings. “It’s discreet, and I can keep an eye on deliveries without leaving the room,” he said.

Using an NVR (Network Video Recorder)

If you have an Arlo SmartHub or Base Station, you can enable local recording and connect the hub to your TV using an HDMI cable (if supported) or via a network-connected NVR.

• Set up your SmartHub with local storage (microSD card or external drive).
• Use a third-party NVR software (like Blue Iris or Milestone) to access Arlo feeds over your network.
• Stream the NVR interface to your TV via a PC or dedicated media player.

Note: This method requires technical know-how and may not be necessary for most home users.

Data Table: Arlo Camera & TV Compatibility Overview

Arlo Camera Model	Smart TV App	Chromecast/AirPlay	Streaming Device (Fire/Roku)	HDMI/Computer
Arlo Pro 4	Yes (Android/Fire/Roku)	Yes	Yes	Yes
Arlo Ultra 2	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Arlo Essential (Wi-Fi)	Limited (via casting)	Yes	Yes	Yes
Arlo Go	No	Yes	Yes	Yes
Arlo Video Doorbell	Yes (Android/Fire/Roku)	Yes	Yes	Yes

Note: Compatibility assumes camera is connected to a SmartHub or Base Station for full features.

Final Thoughts: Is Connecting Arlo to TV Worth It?

So, can Arlo cameras connect to TV? Absolutely—and for many people, it’s a total game-changer. Whether you’re using a smart TV app, casting from your phone, or plugging in a Fire Stick, the process is straightforward and the benefits are real. You get larger, clearer views, hands-free monitoring, and a more integrated smart home experience.

That said, it’s not without its quirks. Some methods have slight lag, older devices may not support all features, and setup can take a few tries. But once it’s working, it’s hard to go back. I’ve found myself checking my driveway camera during dinner or peeking at my backyard while working from the living room—all without reaching for my phone.

The key is choosing the right method for your setup. If you have a smart TV, start with the Arlo app. If not, a $30 Fire Stick or Chromecast can work wonders. And if you’re tech-savvy, exploring NVR or computer streaming opens up even more possibilities.

At the end of the day, connecting your Arlo camera to your TV isn’t just about convenience—it’s about feeling more connected to your home, more in control, and more at peace. And really, isn’t that what smart home tech is all about?

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Arlo cameras connect to a TV directly?

Arlo cameras cannot connect directly to a TV via HDMI or USB. However, you can view footage on your TV by streaming through supported apps on smart TVs, streaming devices (like Roku or Fire TV), or casting from the Arlo app.

How do I connect my Arlo camera to my TV using a smartphone?

Use screen mirroring or casting (e.g., Chromecast, AirPlay) from your smartphone to your smart TV. Open the Arlo app on your phone, select the live feed, and cast it to your TV for real-time viewing. Ensure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network.

Which smart TV platforms support the Arlo app?

The Arlo app is available on select smart TV platforms, including Samsung Tizen, LG webOS, and Android TV. Download the app directly from your TV’s app store, log in, and access your camera feeds without additional hardware.

Can I connect my Arlo cameras to a TV without Wi-Fi?

No, Arlo cameras require a Wi-Fi connection to stream footage to a TV. Without Wi-Fi, you’d need to use local storage (like a microSD card) and manually transfer files to a USB drive for TV playback.

Is there a way to view Arlo cameras on a TV with Alexa?

Yes! Use an Amazon Fire TV or Echo Show device. Enable the Arlo skill in the Alexa app, link your account, and say, “Alexa, show [camera name]” to view live feeds on your TV or Echo Show screen.

Do Arlo cameras work with Apple TV?

Arlo doesn’t have a native Apple TV app, but you can use AirPlay to stream camera feeds from your iPhone or iPad to Apple TV. Open the Arlo app, tap the AirPlay icon, and select your Apple TV to mirror the feed.