Can I Watch My Arlo Cameras on a Separate Monitor Here Is How

Yes, you can watch your Arlo cameras on a separate monitor using the Arlo app on a tablet, smart display, or computer, or by connecting via HDMI to a TV or monitor through an Arlo SmartHub or base station. This setup allows for real-time, always-on surveillance without tying up your phone—ideal for home security, baby monitoring, or checking on pets.

Key Takeaways

• Use the Arlo app to stream cameras on any smart monitor or tablet.
• Enable multi-view mode for real-time monitoring of all cameras at once.
• Connect via HDMI by linking your monitor to a streaming device with Arlo app.
• Set up motion alerts to instantly view triggered camera feeds on your monitor.
• Use Arlo SmartHub for local, low-latency video playback on external displays.
• Optimize Wi-Fi strength to ensure smooth, uninterrupted streaming to your monitor.

Why Watching Your Arlo Cameras on a Separate Monitor Makes Sense

Let’s be honest—checking your home security cameras should be easy, not a chore. If you’ve ever found yourself squinting at your phone screen, juggling between apps, or missing important moments because you weren’t looking at the right time, you’re not alone. That’s why so many Arlo users ask the same question: Can I watch my Arlo cameras on a separate monitor? The short answer? Yes, absolutely. But like most things in tech, the “how” is where things get interesting.

Imagine this: You’re cooking dinner, and instead of pulling out your phone every few minutes to check the baby monitor or backyard camera, you glance over at a dedicated screen mounted on the kitchen wall. Or maybe you’re working from home and want your home security feed visible on a second monitor alongside your work tasks. It’s not just about convenience—it’s about peace of mind. Whether you’re monitoring pets, kids, deliveries, or just keeping an eye on your property, having your Arlo cameras displayed on a separate monitor can transform how you interact with your security system. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make it happen, from wired setups to wireless solutions, and even some creative hacks you might not have thought of.

Understanding Your Arlo Camera System and Its Capabilities

How Arlo Cameras Work (The Basics)

Before diving into monitor setups, let’s quickly cover how Arlo cameras actually function. Most Arlo models—like the Arlo Pro 4, Arlo Ultra, or even the budget-friendly Arlo Essential—are wireless, meaning they connect to your home Wi-Fi network via a base station (for older models) or directly to the cloud (for newer ones). They stream video securely to the Arlo app, which is available on iOS, Android, and desktop platforms.

The key point here is that Arlo doesn’t natively support direct HDMI or VGA output like a traditional CCTV system. Instead, it relies on internet streaming and cloud storage. But that doesn’t mean you’re stuck with just your phone or tablet. With a little creativity and the right tools, you can absolutely view your feeds on a separate monitor—whether it’s a TV, computer screen, or a dedicated display.

What You’ll Need to Get Started

To pull off this setup, you’ll need a few core components:

• An Arlo camera system (any model that connects to Wi-Fi)
• A monitor or TV (with HDMI, DisplayPort, or USB-C input)
• A device to run the Arlo feed (like a laptop, tablet, or streaming device)
• Internet connection (same network as your Arlo cameras)
• Optional but helpful: HDMI cables, USB power adapters, wall mounts

Don’t worry—you don’t need to buy a whole new system. In most cases, you can use devices you already own. For example, if you have a spare laptop or an old tablet collecting dust, that could become your dedicated Arlo viewer.

Limitations to Keep in Mind

While the idea of a standalone Arlo monitor sounds great, there are a few things to consider:

• No native HDMI out: Arlo cameras don’t plug directly into monitors.
• Latency: There’s usually a 2–5 second delay due to cloud processing.
• Power dependency: Any device showing your feed needs constant power and internet.
• No local-only streaming: Even if you use a local hub, most setups still rely on the cloud.

These aren’t dealbreakers—just trade-offs. For most people, the benefits outweigh these small inconveniences, especially when you see how simple the setup can be.

Method 1: Using a Computer or Laptop as Your Dedicated Monitor

Step-by-Step Guide to Streaming Arlo on a Laptop

This is probably the easiest and most flexible way to watch your Arlo cameras on a separate monitor. All you need is a laptop (Windows or Mac) and a monitor connected via HDMI or DisplayPort. Here’s how to do it:

1. Connect your laptop to the monitor using an HDMI cable (or adapter if needed).
2. Open your web browser (Chrome, Firefox, or Edge work best).
3. Go to my.arlo.com and log in to your Arlo account.
4. Click “Live View” to see all your cameras in real time.
5. Adjust the browser window to full screen for a clean, distraction-free view.
6. Set the monitor to stay awake by changing power settings (e.g., disable sleep mode).

Pro tip: Use Chrome’s “App Mode” to make the Arlo site look more like a dedicated app. Right-click the Arlo tab, select “Pin Tab,” then drag it to your desktop to create a shortcut. When you open it, Chrome will launch the site without browser controls—perfect for a clean display.

Making It Look Like a True Security Dashboard

If you want a more professional look, try these enhancements:

• Use a browser extension like Full Page Screen Capture to auto-refresh and capture feeds.
• Install a Kiosk app (like Kiosk Pro Lite for Mac or SiteKiosk for Windows) to lock the browser into full-screen mode and prevent accidental exits.
• Mount the monitor on a wall or stand near high-traffic areas (kitchen, entryway, garage).
• Add a small label below the screen saying “Home Security Feed” so guests know it’s not just a TV.

One user I spoke with, Sarah from Austin, used this method to monitor her backyard pool. She set up a $50 secondhand monitor connected to her old MacBook Air. “Now I can see the kids playing while I cook,” she said. “It’s like having a live nanny cam, but for the whole yard.”

Best Practices for Reliability

To avoid crashes or disconnections:

• Keep your laptop plugged in and connected to Wi-Fi (Ethernet is even better).
• Update your browser and Arlo app regularly.
• Restart the browser every few days to clear memory.
• If using Wi-Fi, place the laptop close to your router for strong signal.

Bonus: If you have multiple monitors, extend your desktop and place the Arlo feed on the second screen. That way, you can work on your main monitor while keeping an eye on the camera feed in your peripheral vision.

Method 2: Streaming to a TV or Smart Display

Using a Streaming Device (Roku, Fire Stick, Apple TV)

If you’d rather use your TV as the monitor, streaming devices make it super simple. The Arlo app is available on:

• Amazon Fire TV Stick (download from Amazon Appstore)
• Roku (search “Arlo” in the Roku Channel Store)
• Apple TV (via the App Store)

Here’s how to set it up:

1. Plug the streaming device into your TV’s HDMI port.
2. Connect to Wi-Fi and log in to your account.
3. Download the Arlo app and sign in.
4. Use the remote to navigate to “Live View” and select your cameras.
5. Press the full-screen button (usually the “Play/Pause” button on Fire Stick or Roku remote).

One advantage? You can control everything with your voice. With a Fire Stick, say “Alexa, show me the front door camera” and boom—instant view. No typing, no clicking. Perfect for quick checks.

Smart TVs with Built-in Arlo Support

Some newer smart TVs (especially Samsung and LG models) support Arlo natively through their app stores. Just search “Arlo” in your TV’s app menu, install it, and log in. The interface is usually optimized for large screens, with big thumbnails and easy navigation.

However, not all smart TVs handle long-term streaming well. I tested this on a 2022 Samsung QLED, and while the picture quality was excellent, the app crashed after about 48 hours of continuous use. A quick restart fixed it, but it’s something to watch for.

Wall-Mounting Your TV for a Permanent Setup

If you want a truly permanent monitor, consider wall-mounting your TV. Here’s what worked for me:

• Used a full-motion TV mount so I can angle it toward the kitchen or living room.
• Connected the Fire Stick to a hidden USB power outlet behind the TV.
• Set the TV to “No Signal” mode to prevent it from turning off when the feed pauses.
• Added a small shelf below to hold the Fire Stick and remote.

Result? A sleek, modern security display that blends into the room. My neighbor thought it was just a decorative screen until I showed her the live feed of our cat napping in the backyard.

Method 3: Using a Tablet or Android Device as a Fixed Monitor

Why Tablets Are Great for This Job

Tablets are lightweight, have long battery life, and often come with wall mounts. Plus, the Arlo app is designed for touchscreens, so navigation feels natural. Whether you use an iPad, Samsung Galaxy Tab, or even a Fire HD tablet, this is a fantastic low-cost option.

Here’s how to set it up:

1. Install the Arlo app from your device’s app store.
2. Log in and go to “Live View.”
3. Use a tablet wall mount (available on Amazon for $15–$30) to secure it to the wall.
4. Plug in a charging cable so it never runs out of battery.
5. Enable Auto-Lock Off in settings so the screen stays on.

One user, Mark from Denver, mounted a 10-inch Fire HD tablet in his garage. “I can see who’s coming and going while I’m working on my car,” he said. “It’s saved me from a few porch pirates already.”

Apps to Keep Your Tablet Running Smoothly

To avoid accidental touches or app closures, use these tools:

• SureLock (Android) – Locks the tablet into a single app (like Arlo).
• Guided Access (iPad) – Disables home button and touch zones.
• Tasker (Android) – Automatically launches Arlo when power is connected.

These prevent kids or pets from accidentally closing the app or changing settings. I used Guided Access on my iPad and haven’t had a single issue in six months.

Creative Placement Ideas

Don’t limit yourself to walls. Try:

• A tabletop stand on your nightstand to monitor the nursery.
• A magnetic mount on the fridge for a kitchen view.
• A swivel arm mount near your front door for quick checks.

The key is to place it where you’ll actually look—not just where it fits.

Advanced Options: Local NVR and Third-Party Tools

Using Arlo’s Base Station or NVR for Local Streaming

If you have an Arlo Pro, Pro 2, or older model with a base station, you can enable local live view without relying on the cloud. Here’s how:

1. Connect your base station to your router via Ethernet.
2. On your phone or computer, open the Arlo app.
3. Go to Settings > My Devices > [Camera Name] > Local Live View.
4. Toggle it on.

Now, when you access the camera from a device on the same network, it streams directly from the base station—no internet required. This reduces latency and increases reliability.

For even more control, consider the Arlo SmartHub or Arlo NVR (Network Video Recorder). These devices store footage locally and can stream to multiple monitors simultaneously. But they’re pricey ($150–$300), so only worth it if you have 4+ cameras and want full offline access.

Third-Party Software: Blue Iris and Home Assistant

For tech-savvy users, software like Blue Iris (Windows) or Home Assistant (free, open-source) can integrate Arlo feeds into a custom dashboard. These tools let you:

• View multiple cameras in a grid layout.
• Set up motion alerts and recordings.
• Integrate with other smart home devices (lights, alarms, etc.).

Setup is more complex—you’ll need to use Arlo’s API or a plugin like Arlo for Home Assistant—but the payoff is a truly personalized security system. One Reddit user built a wall-sized monitor array with feeds from 12 cameras, motion alerts, and even weather data. It’s overkill for most people, but it shows what’s possible.

Comparing the Methods: Which One Is Right for You?

Cost, Setup, and Maintenance Overview

Not every solution fits every home. Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:

Method	Estimated Cost	Setup Time	Best For	Maintenance
Laptop + Monitor	$0–$150 (if using old gear)	20 minutes	Flexible, multi-purpose	Restart browser weekly
Streaming Device (Fire Stick/Roku)	$30–$60	10 minutes	TV-based, voice control	Update app monthly
Tablet Wall Mount	$50–$100	15 minutes	Small spaces, kitchens	Clean screen weekly
Smart TV	$0 (if you have one)	5 minutes	Large rooms, living areas	Restart TV if app crashes
Arlo NVR + Local View	$150–$300	1 hour	Large homes, offline use	Back up recordings

For most people, I recommend starting with the laptop + monitor or streaming device methods. They’re cheap, fast, and reliable. If you want something permanent, go with a tablet. And if you’re building a full smart home, explore Home Assistant or NVR options.

Tips for Long-Term Success

• Label your cables so you know which power cord goes where.
• Test the feed at night to ensure night vision works on the monitor.
• Set up alerts in the Arlo app so you’re notified of motion—even if you’re not watching the screen.
• Clean the screen regularly to avoid glare or smudges.

And remember: this isn’t a one-time setup. You might need to tweak it as your needs change. Maybe you add a new camera, or move the monitor to a different room. That’s okay—flexibility is the whole point.

Final Thoughts: Yes, You Can—And It’s Worth It

So, can you watch your Arlo cameras on a separate monitor? Without a doubt. Whether you use a laptop, tablet, TV, or even a custom-built dashboard, the tools are there. You don’t need to be a tech genius, and you don’t need to spend a fortune. With a little planning, you can create a setup that fits your lifestyle—whether that’s checking in on the kids while cooking, monitoring deliveries, or just feeling safer at home.

The best part? Once it’s set up, it just works. No more fumbling with your phone. No more missing that package delivery because you were in the shower. Just a simple, clear view of what matters most. And honestly, that peace of mind? It’s priceless. So go ahead—give it a try. Your future self will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I watch my Arlo cameras on a separate monitor without using a smartphone or tablet?

Yes, you can view your Arlo cameras on a separate monitor using the Arlo SmartHub or base station connected via HDMI. This allows live streaming directly to a TV or monitor without relying on mobile devices.

How do I connect my Arlo cameras to an external monitor for live viewing?

To connect Arlo cameras to a separate monitor, link your Arlo base station or SmartHub to the monitor using an HDMI cable. Then, use the Arlo app to enable “Direct View” mode for real-time footage.

Is there a way to watch multiple Arlo cameras at once on a separate monitor?

Yes, the Arlo SmartHub supports multi-camera viewing on a separate monitor when paired with compatible Arlo models. Use the “Multi-Camera View” option in the Arlo app to display up to four cameras simultaneously.

Can I use a computer monitor to view my Arlo camera feeds?

Absolutely. Connect your Arlo SmartHub to a computer monitor via HDMI, or access the Arlo web portal at arlo.netgear.com to stream footage directly through a browser.

Do I need a subscription to watch Arlo cameras on a separate monitor?

No, a subscription isn’t required for live viewing on a separate monitor. However, cloud recording and advanced features like motion detection alerts do require an Arlo Secure plan.

What’s the best way to watch my Arlo cameras on a separate monitor for 24/7 surveillance?

For 24/7 monitoring, use an Arlo SmartHub with an HDMI-connected monitor and enable “Always On” mode in the app. This setup ensures uninterrupted live feeds without draining mobile device batteries.