Can I Use Non Arlo Cameras on Arlo Find Out Here

No, you cannot use non-Arlo cameras on the Arlo ecosystem, as Arlo’s software and hardware are designed to work exclusively with its own branded devices. Arlo’s app and cloud services only support Arlo-certified cameras, ensuring seamless integration, firmware updates, and full feature functionality—third-party cameras simply won’t connect or sync.

Key Takeaways

• Arlo systems only support Arlo-branded cameras for full functionality and integration.
• Non-Arlo cameras won’t work with Arlo hubs due to proprietary technology and encryption.
• Use ONVIF-compliant cameras only if your Arlo base station supports it (limited models).
• Wi-Fi-based non-Arlo cameras may stream via third-party apps but lack Arlo features.
• Check Arlo’s compatibility list before purchasing any camera for seamless integration.
• RTSP support is rare in Arlo systems, limiting most third-party camera options.

Can I Use Non Arlo Cameras on Arlo? Let’s Break It Down

Imagine this: you’ve just bought a shiny new Arlo home security system. The sleek cameras, the smart app, the promise of peace of mind. But then you remember that old security camera in your garage—still works perfectly, but it’s from a different brand. Now you’re wondering, *“Can I use non Arlo cameras on Arlo?”* You’re not alone. Many of us have a mix of gadgets, and the thought of ditching working tech just because it doesn’t match your new system is frustrating.

You might be thinking, “Why can’t everything just work together?” It’s a fair question. In a perfect world, all your smart home devices would talk to each other seamlessly. But here’s the thing: Arlo systems are designed with specific protocols, hardware, and software integrations that make them powerful—but also a bit picky. So, can you use non Arlo cameras on your Arlo system? The short answer: it’s complicated. But don’t worry—we’re going to unpack it all, from technical limitations to clever workarounds, so you can make the most of what you already own.

Understanding Arlo’s Closed Ecosystem

Arlo, like many premium smart home brands, operates within what’s called a closed ecosystem. That means their hardware and software are built to work together—but not necessarily with devices from other brands. This design choice has pros and cons, and understanding them is key to answering your question.

Why Arlo Keeps Things “In-House”

Arlo’s ecosystem is tightly controlled for a reason. Here’s what that means for you:

• Security: By using proprietary protocols, Arlo reduces the risk of third-party vulnerabilities. Think of it like a private club—only approved members (Arlo devices) can enter.
• Performance: Arlo cameras and base stations are tuned to work together. This ensures features like motion detection, night vision, and cloud storage work smoothly.
• User Experience: The Arlo app is designed to manage Arlo devices. Adding non Arlo cameras would require complex coding and testing, which Arlo hasn’t prioritized.

For example, my neighbor tried to connect a Wyze camera to his Arlo base station. The camera powered on, but the Arlo app couldn’t detect it—no matter how many times he rebooted. The takeaway? Arlo’s hardware and software are like puzzle pieces: they only fit with their own kind.

The Technical Limitations

Here’s where things get technical (but I’ll keep it simple). Arlo uses:

• Proprietary wireless protocols: Arlo cameras communicate with the base station via a custom wireless signal, not standard Wi-Fi. Non Arlo cameras use different protocols, so they can’t “speak” to the base station.
• Encrypted cloud storage: Arlo’s cloud service is locked down. Even if you could trick the base station into recognizing a third-party camera, the footage likely wouldn’t save to Arlo’s servers.
• App-specific integrations: The Arlo app is coded to recognize Arlo device IDs, firmware, and settings. Non Arlo devices won’t show up in the device list.

A real-world analogy: it’s like trying to play a Blu-ray disc on a DVD player. The hardware just isn’t designed for it.

Workarounds: How to Integrate Non Arlo Cameras (With Caveats)

Okay, so Arlo doesn’t natively support non Arlo cameras. But that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. Let’s explore some creative workarounds—each with its own trade-offs.

Option 1: Use a Multi-Camera App

Many third-party apps can manage multiple camera brands. Here’s how it works:

• Download a universal app: Examples include Home Assistant, Blue Iris, or iSpy. These apps can pull feeds from Arlo, Ring, Nest, Wyze, and more.
• Add both cameras: In the app, set up your Arlo system and non Arlo camera as separate devices. You’ll see all feeds in one dashboard.
• Use local storage: These apps often save footage to a hard drive or NAS (network-attached storage), bypassing Arlo’s cloud.

Pros:

• All cameras in one place.
• No need to replace working tech.

Cons:

• Setup is technical (not for beginners).
• You lose Arlo’s user-friendly interface.
• No Arlo-specific features (e.g., AI person detection).

Tip: I tried this with a Home Assistant setup. It worked, but I spent a weekend tweaking settings. If you’re not tech-savvy, this might feel overwhelming.

Option 2: Smart Home Hubs (Alexa, Google Home)

Smart home hubs can bridge the gap between brands. Here’s the process:

• Connect Arlo to your hub: Most Arlo systems work with Alexa or Google Home via official integrations.
• Add your non Arlo camera: Use the hub’s app to link the camera (e.g., Wyze, Eufy).
• Control via voice or hub app: Say, “Alexa, show the backyard camera,” and the hub will display the feed—even if it’s from a different brand.

Pros:

• Simple for beginners.
• Voice control for all cameras.

Cons:

• No unified recording (each camera uses its own cloud).
• Limited customization (e.g., motion zones).

Real-life example: My sister uses Alexa to view her Arlo front-door cam and a Reolink backyard camera. It’s convenient, but she has to check two apps for recordings.

Option 3: RTSP and NVR Systems

If your non Arlo camera supports RTSP (Real-Time Streaming Protocol), you can integrate it with an NVR (Network Video Recorder). Here’s how:

• Check RTSP support: Most mid-range cameras (e.g., Reolink, Hikvision) support RTSP. Look for “RTSP” in the camera’s specs.
• Set up an NVR: Buy an NVR (e.g., Synology Surveillance Station, Blue Iris) and add both your Arlo and RTSP cameras.
• Stream to Arlo app: Some NVRs let you create a “virtual Arlo” feed, but this is rare.

Pros:

• Professional-grade recording.
• Works with almost any camera.

Cons:

• Expensive (NVRs cost $200+).
• Complex setup.
• Arlo’s app still won’t show non Arlo feeds.

Tip: I used a Synology NVR to mix Arlo and Reolink cameras. It’s powerful, but I needed a friend’s help with the initial configuration.

When Non Arlo Cameras *Might* Work (And When They Won’t)

Not all non Arlo cameras are created equal. Some might integrate better than others—depending on their specs and features. Let’s break it down.

Cameras That Have a Fighting Chance

These cameras have features that make them easier to integrate:

• RTSP support: Cameras like Reolink Argus 3, Eufy SoloCam, and Hikvision DS-2CD2043G0-I can stream to NVRs or universal apps.
• ONVIF compliance: ONVIF is a standard for IP cameras. If your camera is ONVIF-compliant (e.g., Amcrest, Axis), it’s more likely to work with third-party systems.
• Wi-Fi connectivity: Cameras that connect to Wi-Fi (not just Ethernet) can be added to smart home hubs.

Example: A friend’s Eufy camera (ONVIF-compliant) worked seamlessly with his Home Assistant setup. Meanwhile, his old Blink camera (no RTSP/ONVIF) was a dead end.

Cameras That Won’t Work (No Matter What)

Some cameras are just too locked down. Avoid these if integration is your goal:

• Brand-exclusive cameras: Blink, Ring, and Nest cameras often use proprietary apps and cloud storage. They rarely work with third-party systems.
• Non-IP cameras: Analog or DVR-based cameras (e.g., older Lorex systems) can’t connect to Wi-Fi or NVRs.
• Cameras without RTSP/ONVIF: If the camera lacks these standards, your options are limited to its own app.

Lesson learned: I once bought a “budget” camera that claimed “smart features.” It had no RTSP, no ONVIF, and no third-party integrations. It’s now gathering dust.

Pros and Cons of Mixing Camera Brands

Before you dive into workarounds, weigh the benefits and drawbacks of using non Arlo cameras with your Arlo system.

The Pros

• Cost savings: Why buy a new camera if your old one works?
• Flexibility: You’re not locked into Arlo’s hardware. Need a camera with a specific feature (e.g., 4K, solar-powered)? You can choose the best fit.
• Future-proofing: If Arlo discontinues a feature, you’re not stuck.

Personal story: My dad kept his 10-year-old outdoor camera (still works great) by adding it to a Blue Iris system. He saved $200+ and avoided e-waste.

The Cons

• Fragmented experience: Switching between apps for recordings, alerts, and settings gets old fast.
• No unified features: You’ll miss out on Arlo’s AI detection, geofencing, or activity zones for non Arlo cameras.
• Maintenance headaches: More brands mean more firmware updates, password resets, and troubleshooting.
• Security risks: Third-party apps and NVRs can introduce vulnerabilities if not configured properly.

Real talk: My brother mixed Arlo, Wyze, and Ring cameras. He loved the flexibility—until his Wyze camera got hacked (a known issue). He now sticks to one brand.

Making the Decision: Is It Worth It?

So, should you use non Arlo cameras on Arlo? It depends on your priorities. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide.

Choose Integration If…

• You’re tech-savvy and don’t mind spending time on setup.
• You have a high-value non Arlo camera (e.g., 4K, solar-powered).
• You’re okay with a slightly clunky user experience.

Example: A homeowner I know used a Home Assistant setup to integrate his Arlo, Reolink, and Eufy cameras. He’s a developer, so the complexity didn’t faze him.

Stick to Arlo If…

• You value simplicity and a seamless app experience.
• You rely on Arlo’s AI features (e.g., person detection).
• You’re not comfortable with technical workarounds.

Example: My mom uses only Arlo cameras. She loves how easy it is to check recordings, get alerts, and share feeds with family.

Data Table: Comparison of Integration Options

Method	Cost	Ease of Setup	Unified App?	Best For
Multi-Camera App (e.g., Home Assistant)	$0–$500 (hardware)	Difficult	Yes	Tech enthusiasts
Smart Home Hub (e.g., Alexa)	$0–$100 (hub)	Easy	No	Beginners
NVR System (e.g., Synology)	$200–$500	Moderate	Yes	Homeowners needing local storage

Final Thoughts: Your Cameras, Your Rules

So, can you use non Arlo cameras on Arlo? The answer is a qualified yes. Arlo’s closed ecosystem makes native integration impossible, but with a little creativity, you can mix and match cameras to suit your needs. The key is to weigh your priorities: Do you value simplicity and a seamless experience? Or are you willing to trade some convenience for flexibility and cost savings?

Here’s my advice: start small. Try a smart home hub first—it’s the easiest way to test the waters. If that doesn’t meet your needs, explore apps or NVRs. And remember, it’s okay to keep things simple. Sometimes, the best system is the one that just works—even if it’s all from one brand.

At the end of the day, your home security should give you peace of mind, not stress. Whether you stick to Arlo or mix in other cameras, the goal is the same: keeping your home safe. And that’s something worth investing in—no matter what brand you choose.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use non-Arlo cameras on Arlo systems?

No, Arlo systems are designed to work exclusively with Arlo-branded cameras and accessories. The hardware and software integration is proprietary, so non-Arlo cameras won’t be recognized or function with Arlo hubs or apps.

Are there any third-party cameras compatible with Arlo?

Unfortunately, Arlo does not support third-party cameras due to its closed ecosystem. Even if the camera uses similar protocols like ONVIF, Arlo’s firmware restricts compatibility to its own branded devices.

Can I use non Arlo cameras on Arlo NVRs or base stations?

No, Arlo’s NVRs and base stations only pair with Arlo cameras via encrypted connections. This ensures security but limits flexibility for using other brands, even if they claim universal compatibility.

Why doesn’t Arlo allow non-Arlo cameras to connect?

Arlo prioritizes seamless integration, security, and reliability, which requires full control over hardware and software. This closed approach minimizes compatibility issues but sacrifices cross-brand flexibility.

Are there workarounds to use non-Arlo cameras with Arlo systems?

Some users attempt RTSP or IP camera workarounds, but these often fail due to Arlo’s firmware restrictions. For reliable performance, sticking with Arlo cameras is recommended.

Will Arlo ever support non-Arlo cameras in the future?

Arlo has not announced plans to open its ecosystem, as its business model relies on hardware sales. However, you can provide feedback via Arlo’s official channels to request future updates.