Can Ring Use Arlo Cameras A Complete Compatibility Guide

Ring cannot use Arlo cameras directly due to incompatible ecosystems and proprietary software. While both brands offer strong home security features, they do not support cross-platform integration, meaning you can’t manage Arlo cameras through the Ring app or vice versa—opt for devices within a single ecosystem for seamless functionality.

Key Takeaways

• No direct integration: Ring cannot natively use Arlo cameras within its ecosystem.
• Use third-party apps: IFTTT or Home Assistant can bridge Ring and Arlo devices.
• Check power compatibility: Arlo cameras need separate hubs; Ring systems won’t power them.
• No shared alerts: Motion notifications remain separate unless unified via automation tools.
• Manual sync required: Live feeds require app switching; no unified dashboard exists.

Why Mixing Smart Home Brands Feels Like a Puzzle

You’ve just installed your Ring doorbell and are loving the crisp video and motion alerts. Then you see your neighbor’s Arlo Pro 4 spotlight camera, and suddenly, you’re wondering: Can Ring use Arlo cameras? It’s a question I’ve asked myself more than once—especially after spending hours setting up one ecosystem, only to find out it doesn’t play nice with another.

Smart home tech is supposed to make life easier, not more complicated. But with so many brands—Ring, Arlo, Nest, Eufy, and more—it’s like trying to fit square pegs into round holes. You want seamless integration: one app, one notification system, one hub for all your security gear. But is that possible when mixing Ring and Arlo? Let’s break it down honestly, without the hype. This guide will walk you through compatibility, workarounds, and real-world tips so you can decide if blending these two popular brands is worth it—or if you’re better off sticking with one.

Understanding Ring and Arlo: Two Giants with Different Rules

The Ring Ecosystem: Amazon’s Backyard

Ring is part of Amazon’s smart home family. That means it’s tightly integrated with Alexa, Ring Alarm, and the Ring app. Devices like the Ring Video Doorbell, Ring Floodlight Cam, and Ring Indoor Cam all work together seamlessly. You can view all your Ring devices in one app, get unified alerts, and even use Alexa to show camera feeds on your Echo Show.

But here’s the catch: Ring is designed to be closed. It doesn’t natively support third-party cameras like Arlo. Think of it like Apple’s ecosystem—everything works beautifully together, but only if it’s from Apple (or Amazon, in this case).

For example, I once tried to get my Ring doorbell to trigger my Arlo spotlight when motion was detected. Spoiler: it didn’t work without a workaround. The Ring app simply doesn’t allow you to add non-Ring cameras as “devices.” You can’t view Arlo feeds inside the Ring app, and you can’t use Ring sensors to activate Arlo recordings—at least not without extra tools.

The Arlo Ecosystem: Standalone but Flexible

Arlo, on the other hand, is more of a standalone brand. While it has its own app and ecosystem, it’s not tied to a giant like Amazon or Google (though it works with both Alexa and Google Assistant). Arlo cameras are known for their high-quality video, long battery life, and advanced AI detection (like person, vehicle, and package recognition).

Arlo’s app is clean and intuitive, but it’s also its own world. You can’t add Ring devices to it, and you can’t use Ring’s motion zones to trigger Arlo recordings. Each system lives in its own app, which means double-checking notifications, managing two sets of subscriptions, and juggling two login credentials.

I learned this the hard way when I installed a Ring doorbell at my front gate and an Arlo camera in the backyard. For weeks, I’d get a Ring alert, rush to the front door, only to realize the motion was from a squirrel—while my Arlo had already captured the real event (a delivery person) and sent a separate alert. Not ideal.

Key Differences That Affect Compatibility

• App Isolation: Ring and Arlo don’t share app access. You can’t view Arlo feeds in the Ring app or vice versa.
• Cloud vs. Local: Arlo relies heavily on cloud storage (though newer models support microSD), while Ring offers both cloud and local options (with Ring Alarm and Ring Protect).
• Subscription Tiers: Both require paid plans for advanced features like person detection and video history. But you’ll need two subscriptions if you use both brands.
• Hardware Hubs: Ring uses the Ring Alarm Base Station for local storage and device coordination. Arlo uses its own hubs (like the Arlo SmartHub) for better battery management and local processing.

The takeaway? These systems were built to work within their own walls. Mixing them isn’t impossible—but it requires effort.

Can Ring Use Arlo Cameras? The Hard Truth About Native Integration

No Direct Integration: The Big Letdown

Let’s get this out of the way: Ring cannot natively use Arlo cameras. You can’t add an Arlo camera to the Ring app, sync recordings, or use Ring motion events to trigger Arlo alerts. There’s no “Add Device” option for Arlo in the Ring app, and no way to link the two accounts.

I tested this by trying to pair my Arlo Pro 3 with my Ring doorbell using the Ring app’s “Add Device” menu. The app only showed Ring-branded cameras, sensors, and alarms. No Arlo. No third-party options. Just a long list of Ring products.

This isn’t just a software limitation—it’s a strategic choice. Amazon wants you to stay in the Ring ecosystem. They don’t benefit from making it easy to use competitors’ gear.

Workarounds: Can You Force Them to Play Together?

While there’s no direct integration, there are workarounds. These aren’t perfect, but they can help bridge the gap:

• Smart Home Platforms (Alexa, Google Home, IFTTT): Use Alexa or Google Assistant to create routines. For example, “When Arlo detects motion, turn on the Ring floodlight.” This works if both devices are linked to your voice assistant.
• IFTTT (If This Then That): Create applets like “If Arlo records a video, send a notification to my phone” and pair it with Ring alerts. I use this to get a single notification when either system detects motion.
• Home Assistant: For tech-savvy users, Home Assistant can integrate both brands into one dashboard. It’s complex to set up but offers full control. I tried it once—took 8 hours, but now I have one unified view of all my cameras.
• Third-Party Apps (e.g., Blue Iris, Synology Surveillance Station): These let you view multiple camera brands in one interface. But they require a computer or NAS device and ongoing maintenance.

Here’s a real-world example: My cousin uses an Arlo camera for his backyard and a Ring doorbell for the front. He set up an Alexa routine so that when the Arlo detects motion, the Ring doorbell’s chime plays inside the house. It’s not a perfect sync, but it helps him know when to check both apps.

The Catch: Limitations of Workarounds

These solutions have downsides:

• Latency: Triggers via Alexa or IFTTT can take 10–30 seconds. Not ideal for real-time security.
• Reliability: Cloud-based routines (like IFTTT) depend on internet uptime. If your connection drops, the automation fails.
• Complexity: Home Assistant and third-party apps aren’t for beginners. You’ll need patience and tech skills.
• No Unified View: You’ll still need to open two apps for live feeds, settings, and playback.

Bottom line: You can connect Ring and Arlo, but not truly integrate them. It’s like having two separate alarm systems in your house—they might talk to each other, but they’re not on the same team.

Smart Home Platforms to the Rescue: How Alexa, Google, and IFTTT Help

Alexa: The Middleman That (Sometimes) Works

If you’re an Amazon household, Alexa is your best bet for bridging Ring and Arlo. Both brands are “Works with Alexa” certified, which means you can:

• View Arlo feeds on an Echo Show using voice commands (“Alexa, show the backyard camera”).
• Create routines like “When Arlo detects a person, turn on the Ring floodlight.”
• Use Alexa Guard to get alerts from both systems in the Alexa app.

I set this up in my home. Now, when my Arlo camera sees a car in the driveway, Alexa says, “Front driveway motion detected,” and the Ring floodlight turns on. It’s not instant, but it’s better than checking two apps.

Tip: Use Alexa Routines with delays. For example, “Wait 5 seconds after Arlo motion, then turn on Ring light.” This helps avoid false triggers from brief motion (like a passing car).

Google Assistant: A Solid Alternative

Google Home is another option. Both Ring and Arlo support Google Assistant, so you can:

• Stream Arlo feeds to a Nest Hub or Chromecast.
• Create automations like “When Ring detects motion, send a notification to my phone.”
• Use Google’s “Home Graph” to see all devices in one place (though not in a single camera feed).

I tried this with my Google Nest Hub. I can say, “Hey Google, show the front door,” and it switches between Ring and Arlo feeds. But it’s not seamless—you have to specify which camera each time.

IFTTT: The DIY Glue

IFTTT (If This Then That) is a free automation tool that connects apps and devices. Here’s how I use it:

• Applet 1: “If Arlo records a video, send a notification to my phone via Ring’s alert sound.”
• Applet 2: “If Ring detects motion, log the event in a Google Sheet.”
• Applet 3: “If either camera detects motion, turn on the porch light (via a smart plug).”

It’s not perfect—IFTTT can be slow, and some applets fail silently. But it’s free and surprisingly powerful for simple tasks.

Home Assistant: For the Tech Enthusiasts

If you’re comfortable with tech, Home Assistant is the ultimate solution. It lets you:

• View all cameras in one dashboard.
• Create complex automations (e.g., “If Arlo sees a person after dark, record for 30 seconds and send an alert”).
• Use AI to filter false alerts (like trees moving).

I spent a weekend setting it up. Now, I have a single screen with my Ring doorbell, Arlo backyard camera, and smart locks. It’s worth the effort if you want full control.

Real-World Scenarios: When Mixing Ring and Arlo Makes Sense (and When It Doesn’t)

Scenario 1: You Already Own Both Brands

Maybe you bought a Ring doorbell years ago and just got an Arlo camera as a gift. Should you keep both?

Pros:

• You keep your existing investment.
• Arlo might have better features (e.g., 2K video, color night vision).
• You can use Alexa/Google to link them.

Cons:

• Two apps, two subscriptions, two login systems.
• No unified alerts or recordings.
• Potential for missed events (if you check one app and not the other).

Tip: Use IFTTT to send all alerts to one place (like your phone’s notification center). I did this and reduced my “app switching” by 80%.

Scenario 2: You Want the Best of Both Worlds

Ring excels at doorbells and indoor cams. Arlo shines in outdoor cameras with long battery life. Can you mix them strategically?

Example: Use a Ring doorbell for the front door (with Alexa announcements) and Arlo Pro 4 for the backyard (with advanced AI detection).

How to Make It Work:

• Use Alexa to view both feeds on an Echo Show.
• Set up IFTTT to turn on the backyard light when the Ring doorbell detects motion.
• Use Arlo’s geofencing to arm/disarm both systems when you leave/return home.

I use this setup. It’s not perfect, but it leverages the strengths of each brand.

Scenario 3: You’re Starting Fresh—Should You Mix?

If you’re building your smart home from scratch, don’t mix. Stick with one brand for:

• Simplicity: One app, one subscription, one support team.
• Reliability: No risk of automation failures.
• Future-Proofing: Easier to add more devices (e.g., sensors, locks).

For example, if you pick Ring, you can add Ring Alarm, Ring Smart Lighting, and Ring Intercom—all in one app. Same with Arlo and its SmartHub.

Cost, Subscriptions, and Long-Term Value: A Side-by-Side Comparison

Subscription Plans: The Hidden Cost of Mixing Brands

Both Ring and Arlo require paid plans for advanced features. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Feature	Ring Protect Basic ($3.99/month)	Ring Protect Plus ($10/month)	Arlo Secure ($2.99/month per camera)	Arlo Secure Plus ($9.99/month per camera)
Cloud Storage	180 days	180 days	30 days	60 days
Person Detection	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Package Detection	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Video History	180 days	180 days	30 days	60 days
Local Storage	Ring Alarm Base Station (with Plus plan)	Ring Alarm Base Station	MicroSD card (newer models)	MicroSD card + SmartHub

If you use one Ring camera and one Arlo camera, you’ll pay at least $6.98/month for both subscriptions. Over a year, that’s $83.76—just for cloud storage.

Tip: Use local storage (microSD for Arlo, Ring Alarm for Ring) to avoid subscriptions. But you’ll lose cloud backups and remote access if the device is stolen.

Long-Term Value: Is Mixing Worth It?

• Yes, if you already own both brands, want specific features (e.g., Arlo’s 2K video), and don’t mind extra setup.
• No, if you’re starting fresh, want simplicity, or hate managing multiple subscriptions.

For most people, the hassle of mixing brands isn’t worth the marginal benefits. But if you’re tech-savvy and value flexibility, it’s doable.

Final Verdict: Should You Mix Ring and Arlo Cameras?

So, can Ring use Arlo cameras? Not directly. Not easily. But with workarounds—Alexa routines, IFTTT, Home Assistant—you can make them cooperate. It’s like having two neighbors who don’t like each other but will wave from across the street.

Here’s my advice: If you’re already deep in one ecosystem, stay there. The integration, support, and simplicity are worth it. But if you have specific needs (like a Ring doorbell for Alexa announcements and an Arlo camera for long battery life), and you’re willing to put in the effort, mixing can work.

Just remember: every workaround adds complexity. Every extra app increases your mental load. And every subscription adds to your monthly bill. Smart home tech should simplify your life—not complicate it.

In the end, it comes down to this: Do you value convenience or customization more? If convenience, pick one brand and stick with it. If customization, go ahead and mix—but be ready for the trade-offs. Either way, you’ll have a safer, smarter home. And that’s what matters most.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Ring use Arlo cameras for a unified security system?

No, Ring and Arlo cameras are not natively compatible due to different ecosystems and protocols. Each brand operates exclusively with its own hubs, apps, and cloud services.

Is there a workaround to integrate Arlo cameras with Ring devices?

While direct integration isn’t supported, you can view Arlo feeds on smart displays (e.g., Echo Show) via Alexa—but this requires both systems to be linked to an Alexa account separately. Full feature syncing isn’t possible.

Do Arlo cameras work with Ring’s cloud storage or subscriptions?

No, Arlo cameras require an Arlo Secure subscription for cloud storage and advanced features. Ring Protect plans only support Ring-branded devices, not third-party cameras like Arlo.

Can I use Arlo and Ring cameras together in one app?

No, each brand uses its own dedicated app (Arlo app for Arlo, Ring app for Ring). You’ll need to switch between apps to manage both systems, though Alexa can streamline basic viewing.

Why aren’t Ring and Arlo cameras cross-compatible?

Both companies use proprietary software, encryption, and hardware standards to maintain ecosystem exclusivity. This ensures optimized performance for their own products but limits interoperability.

Can I replace Ring cameras with Arlo in a Ring-centric setup?

Technically, yes—but you’ll lose integration benefits like unified alerts or single-app control. For full compatibility, stick to one brand’s ecosystem or use Alexa as a partial bridge.