Can Use Arlo Cameras with Simplisafe Security A Complete Guide

Yes, you can use Arlo cameras with SimpliSafe security systems, but integration is limited and requires workarounds since the two platforms aren’t natively compatible. Using third-party apps like IFTTT or Home Assistant enables basic automation and alerts, letting you view Arlo feeds alongside SimpliSafe sensors—ideal for users wanting multi-brand flexibility without replacing existing hardware.

Key Takeaways

• No native integration: Arlo and Simplisafe don’t officially support direct camera pairing.
• Use third-party apps: IFTTT or Home Assistant can bridge Arlo and Simplisafe systems.
• SimpliCam works best: Stick to Simplisafe cameras for seamless compatibility and alerts.
• Manual sync required: Set up alerts and routines to sync motion events across platforms.
• Cloud storage separate: Footage saves to each system’s cloud; no shared access.
• Wi-Fi bandwidth impact: Running both systems may strain your network connection.

Why You Might Want to Combine Arlo and Simplisafe

Imagine this: You’re halfway through your morning coffee when your phone buzzes with a motion alert. You open the app and see your front yard—but it’s not your Simplisafe camera that sent the alert. It’s your trusty Arlo Pro 4, perched on the porch, catching every detail in crisp 2K resolution. You smile. Your home feels safer because you’ve layered two powerful systems together. That’s the dream, right? But is it possible? Can you use Arlo cameras with Simplisafe security?

Home security today isn’t just about picking one brand and sticking to it. Many of us end up with a mix of devices—maybe you started with Simplisafe for its sleek base station and 24/7 monitoring, but later added Arlo cameras for their superior video quality, weather resistance, and smart detection features. The good news? You’re not alone. Thousands of homeowners want to know if these two popular systems can coexist. The short answer: yes, you can use Arlo cameras with Simplisafe, but it’s not a plug-and-play integration. This guide walks you through the realities, the workarounds, the pros, the cons, and how to make it work—without pulling your hair out.

Understanding the Core Systems: Arlo vs. Simplisafe

How Arlo Cameras Work

Arlo, a brand under Netgear, is known for its wireless, battery-powered security cameras that connect directly to your home Wi-Fi or a dedicated base station (like the Arlo SmartHub). These cameras are designed for flexibility—easy to install, weather-resistant, and packed with AI-powered features like person, package, and vehicle detection. They support local storage via microSD cards (on certain models) and cloud storage through Arlo Secure subscriptions. The key point? Arlo cameras are standalone devices that operate independently of any security system, relying on their own app for alerts, live views, and recordings.

For example, the Arlo Pro 5S offers 2K HDR video, color night vision, and two-way audio. You can set up activity zones, schedule recordings, and even use geofencing to arm/disarm the camera when you leave or return home. But here’s the catch: Arlo doesn’t have a central alarm panel or professional monitoring. It’s a video-first system.

How Simplisafe Security Works

Simplisafe, on the other hand, is a full-fledged home security system. It includes a central hub (called the Base Station), sensors (door/window, motion, glass break), a keypad, and optional professional monitoring. Simplisafe cameras (like the SimpliCam and Video Doorbell) integrate natively with the system—meaning they trigger alarms, show up in the Simplisafe app, and can be armed/disarmed with the rest of your system. The Base Station acts as the brain, coordinating sensors and sending alerts to your phone or monitoring center.

One major perk: Simplisafe’s monitoring plans include 24/7 professional response, cellular backup, and police/fire dispatch. But its cameras are less advanced than Arlo’s in terms of resolution, AI detection, and customization. For instance, Simplisafe’s indoor camera records in 1080p with basic motion detection—no person or package filtering unless you pay for the higher-tier monitoring plan.

Key Differences That Affect Compatibility

• App Ecosystem: Arlo uses the Arlo app; Simplisafe uses the Simplisafe app. They don’t share data or alerts.

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• Alarm Integration: Simplisafe cameras trigger the Base Station’s siren and alarm. Arlo cameras don’t communicate with the Base Station at all.
• Monitoring: Simplisafe’s professional monitoring covers its own devices. Arlo requires a separate Arlo Secure plan for emergency response (if available in your region).
• Installation & Power: Arlo is mostly wireless; Simplisafe’s sensors are wireless, but the Base Station and cameras are wired or plug-in.

Bottom line: You’re not replacing one with the other. You’re using both as complementary tools—Arlo for superior video, Simplisafe for system-wide alerts and monitoring.

How to Use Arlo Cameras with Simplisafe (The Workarounds)

Option 1: Run Both Apps Side-by-Side

This is the most common and easiest method. You keep your Arlo and Simplisafe systems completely separate but use them together. Here’s how:

• Install both apps on your phone. Use the Simplisafe app to arm/disarm your sensors and check alarm status. Use the Arlo app to view camera feeds, set up activity zones, and receive motion alerts.

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• Sync your routines manually. For example, when you arm your Simplisafe system, also arm your Arlo cameras (or set them to “Away” mode). When you disarm Simplisafe, disarm Arlo too. This avoids false alerts when you’re home.
• Use geofencing (if available). Arlo supports location-based automation. Set it to arm when your phone leaves home and disarm when you return. Simplisafe also has this feature. You can align the two by setting similar geofence radii (e.g., 500 feet).
• Create a routine in your phone. On iPhone, use Shortcuts. On Android, use Tasker or Routines. Example: “When Simplisafe is armed, send a notification to arm Arlo cameras.”

Tip: Name your Arlo cameras clearly (e.g., “Arlo Front Door”) so you don’t confuse them with Simplisafe’s cameras in your notifications.

Option 2: Use IFTTT for Limited Automation

IFTTT (If This, Then That) is a free web service that connects apps and devices. It can bridge Arlo and Simplisafe for basic automation:

• Trigger: Simplisafe is armed (via IFTTT integration).
• Action: Arlo camera starts recording or sends a push notification.

However, there are limitations:

• IFTTT can’t disarm Arlo when Simplisafe is disarmed—only trigger actions on arming.
• Delays: IFTTT actions can take 1–5 minutes, which isn’t ideal for security.
• No two-way sync: Arlo alerts won’t trigger Simplisafe alarms.

Example: Set up an IFTTT applet so that when Simplisafe is armed, your Arlo camera turns on a spotlight (if it has one) or records a 30-second clip. It’s not seamless, but it adds a layer of coordination.

Option 3: Use a Smart Home Hub (Advanced)

If you’re tech-savvy, consider a hub like Home Assistant or Hubitat. These platforms can pull data from both Arlo and Simplisafe APIs and create custom automations:

• When Simplisafe is armed, turn on Arlo cameras and set activity zones to “high sensitivity.”
• When Arlo detects a person at night, send a notification to your Simplisafe app (via a custom script).
• Use a dashboard (like Home Assistant’s Lovelace) to view both systems on one screen.

Note: This requires technical knowledge and may violate terms of service if you use third-party tools to access Simplisafe’s API. But for DIY enthusiasts, it’s a powerful option.

What You Can’t Do (Yet)

• No native alarm sync: Arlo motion won’t trigger Simplisafe’s siren or monitoring center.
• No shared recordings: Arlo videos stay in the Arlo app; Simplisafe videos stay in its app.
• No centralized control: You’ll always need two apps unless you use a third-party dashboard.

Real-life example: Sarah in Austin uses Arlo Pro 4 cameras for her backyard and driveway (great night vision!) and Simplisafe for her door/window sensors and indoor camera. She arms both systems at night via the apps and uses IFTTT to make her Arlo spotlight turn on when Simplisafe is armed. “It’s not perfect,” she says, “but I feel covered from all angles.”

Benefits of Using Arlo with Simplisafe

Superior Video Quality and Features

Arlo’s 2K and 4K cameras deliver sharper images than Simplisafe’s 1080p offerings. This matters when you need to identify faces, license plates, or package details. Arlo’s AI detection (person, package, animal, vehicle) also reduces false alerts. For instance, your Arlo camera might ignore a passing squirrel but alert you to a delivery person.

Plus, Arlo’s weather resistance (IP65 or IP66) makes them ideal for outdoor use. The Arlo Ultra 2 even has a built-in spotlight and siren—features Simplisafe’s outdoor camera lacks.

Flexibility and Scalability

Arlo’s wireless design lets you place cameras anywhere—under eaves, on trees, or in hard-to-reach spots. No wiring needed. Simplisafe’s cameras, while easy to install, are limited by power outlets and Wi-Fi range.

Need a camera in the backyard? Just stick an Arlo there. Want a temporary setup for a rental property? Arlo’s portability is a win. You can scale up or down without rewiring.

Redundancy and Peace of Mind

Using two systems adds redundancy. If your Wi-Fi drops, Simplisafe’s Base Station uses cellular backup (if you have monitoring). Arlo cameras with local storage (like the Arlo Pro 3 with a SmartHub) keep recording even when the internet is down.

It’s like wearing a seatbelt and airbag. Simplisafe’s sensors detect a break-in; Arlo’s camera captures the evidence. You’re covered from multiple angles.

Customization for Your Needs

You can tailor each system to its strengths:

• Use Simplisafe for entry points (doors, windows) and motion sensors in living areas.
• Use Arlo for high-risk zones (backyard, garage, driveway) where video evidence is crucial.
• Use Arlo’s geofencing to automate outdoor lighting or record clips when you’re away.

Pro tip: Pair Arlo’s package detection with Simplisafe’s door sensor. If your door opens while Arlo sees a package, you get a double alert—great for deterring porch pirates.

Challenges and Limitations (Be Realistic)

No Seamless Integration

The biggest hurdle? No native sync. You’ll manage two apps, two subscriptions (if you use cloud storage), and two sets of alerts. This can be overwhelming if you’re not tech-inclined.

Imagine: You get a motion alert from Arlo. You open the Arlo app, see a raccoon, and dismiss it. But then you get a Simplisafe alert from the same area. Was it the raccoon or a real threat? Without integration, you’re playing detective.

Subscription Costs Add Up

Both systems have optional paid plans:

• Simplisafe: Professional monitoring starts at $19.99/month. Cloud storage for cameras is $9.99/month (or included in higher plans).
• Arlo: Arlo Secure starts at $2.99/camera/month for 30-day cloud storage and AI detection. Premium plans ($9.99/camera/month) add 24/7 emergency response.

If you have 4 Arlo cameras, that’s $12–$40/month on top of Simplisafe’s fees. Local storage (microSD cards) can reduce Arlo costs, but you lose cloud backups.

Potential for False Alerts

Arlo’s AI is great but not perfect. It might flag a shadow as a person or a pet as an intruder. Simplisafe’s motion sensors can also trigger false alarms (e.g., from a pet or curtain movement).

Without sync, you might get duplicate alerts. Solution? Fine-tune both systems:

• Adjust Arlo’s sensitivity and activity zones.
• Use Simplisafe’s pet mode (if you have pets).
• Set up “quiet hours” for both apps to reduce nighttime alerts.

Technical Hurdles

• Wi-Fi congestion: Too many devices on one network can slow speeds. Use a separate 2.4GHz network for Arlo cameras.
• Battery life: Arlo’s wireless cameras need recharging every 3–6 months. Use solar panels (sold separately) for outdoor cameras.
• App reliability: Both apps occasionally have bugs. Keep them updated.

Real-world tip: Mike in Seattle had Arlo and Simplisafe but got frustrated with false alerts. He fixed it by placing Arlo cameras lower (to avoid tree movement) and using Simplisafe’s “away mode” only when he’s truly away.

Real-World Setup Examples and Best Practices

Example 1: The Urban Apartment Dweller

Setup:

• Simplisafe: Entry sensors on front and back doors, motion sensor in living room, Base Station.
• Arlo: Arlo Essential Indoor Camera in the hallway, Arlo Pro 4 at the front door.

Workflow:

• Arm Simplisafe when leaving. Arlo cameras are set to “Away” via geofencing.
• When Arlo detects a person, it sends a push notification. Simplisafe’s door sensor also alerts if a door opens.
• Use IFTTT to turn on Arlo’s spotlight when Simplisafe is armed.

Result: “I get a full picture,” says Lena. “Arlo shows who’s at the door; Simplisafe tells me if the door opens.”

Example 2: The Suburban Family Home

Setup:

• Simplisafe: Sensors on all doors/windows, glass break sensors, indoor camera in kids’ playroom.
• Arlo: Arlo Ultra 2 in backyard, Arlo Pro 4 at garage, Arlo Doorbell.

Workflow:

• Arm both systems at night. Arlo’s AI detects package deliveries and sends alerts.
• Use Home Assistant to create a dashboard showing live feeds from both systems.
• Arlo’s geofencing disarms cameras when the family arrives.

Result: “The backyard camera caught a raccoon stealing trash,” says David. “Simplisafe’s glass break sensor would’ve caught a break-in.”

Best Practices for a Smooth Experience

• Label everything: Name sensors and cameras clearly in both apps.
• Test regularly: Check battery levels, Wi-Fi signal, and app notifications weekly.
• Use local storage: Reduce costs by using microSD cards for Arlo (if supported).
• Optimize Wi-Fi: Use a mesh network or Wi-Fi extender if cameras are far from the router.
• Set up emergency contacts: In both apps, add family members or neighbors to receive alerts.

Data Table: Arlo + Simplisafe Feature Comparison

Feature	Arlo Cameras	Simplisafe System	Combined Use
Video Resolution	Up to 4K (Arlo Ultra 2)	1080p (SimpliCam)	Best of both: High-res video + system alerts
AI Detection	Person, package, vehicle, animal	Basic motion (advanced detection requires plan)	Arlo for smart alerts; Simplisafe for basic coverage
Alarm Integration	No (standalone)	Yes (triggers Base Station siren)	No sync, but both provide alerts
Monitoring	Arlo Secure (24/7 response, extra cost)	Simplisafe Professional Monitoring	Redundant coverage (choose one or both)
Power	Battery, solar, or wired	Wired or plug-in	Flexible placement with Arlo; reliable power with Simplisafe
App	Arlo app	Simplisafe app	Two apps required (no integration)

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

So, can you use Arlo cameras with Simplisafe security? Absolutely. But it’s not a magic bullet. You’re trading seamless integration for flexibility, superior video, and layered protection. Think of it like building a custom security suite—one that plays to each system’s strengths.

Is it perfect? No. You’ll juggle two apps, pay for two subscriptions (if you want cloud features), and spend time setting up workarounds. But for many, the trade-off is worth it. If you value crisp video, AI detection, and outdoor coverage (Arlo), and also want reliable sensors, professional monitoring, and a central alarm (Simplisafe), combining them makes sense.

My advice? Start small. Add one Arlo camera to your Simplisafe setup. Test it for a month. See how the alerts feel, how the apps work together, and whether the redundancy brings you peace of mind. If it does, scale up. If not, you can always stick with one system.

At the end of the day, home security isn’t about brands—it’s about confidence. And if using Arlo cameras with Simplisafe makes you feel safer, then you’ve already won.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Arlo cameras with SimpliSafe security systems?

Arlo and SimpliSafe are separate ecosystems and don’t natively integrate, but you can use both systems side-by-side. This means you’ll manage them through different apps, but they can coexist for layered home security.

Is there a way to connect Arlo cameras to SimpliSafe for unified monitoring?

No direct integration exists to connect Arlo cameras to SimpliSafe for unified monitoring. However, you can use both systems independently and access their feeds simultaneously via their respective mobile apps or web portals.

Do Arlo cameras work with SimpliSafe’s professional monitoring service?

Arlo cameras cannot be directly linked to SimpliSafe’s professional monitoring. SimpliSafe’s service only covers their own branded devices, so Arlo alerts would require separate self-monitoring or Arlo’s subscription plan.

What are the benefits of using Arlo cameras with SimpliSafe security?

Pairing Arlo cameras with SimpliSafe lets you combine SimpliSafe’s robust sensors and alarms with Arlo’s advanced camera features (e.g., AI detection, 4K video). This hybrid approach offers flexibility without replacing either system.

Can I view Arlo and SimpliSafe camera feeds in one place?

There’s no native way to merge Arlo and SimpliSafe feeds, but third-party smart home platforms like Home Assistant or IFTTT may offer limited automation. Most users toggle between both apps for live views.

Are there compatibility issues when using Arlo cameras with SimpliSafe?

No technical compatibility issues arise since both systems operate independently. The main drawback is managing two separate apps and subscriptions, but this doesn’t affect their performance as standalone devices.