Can You Add Arlo Doorbell Camera to Arlo Pro System Easily

Yes, you can seamlessly add an Arlo Doorbell Camera to your existing Arlo Pro system using the same Arlo app, ensuring unified monitoring and alerts. Setup is quick and wireless, requiring no additional hub and allowing integration within minutes—ideal for expanding your smart home security with minimal effort.

Key Takeaways

• Seamless integration: Add Arlo Doorbell to Arlo Pro via the same app effortlessly.
• Unified account: Use one Arlo account to manage both devices without extra steps.
• No hub needed: Both systems connect directly to Wi-Fi for easy setup.
• Shared alerts: Receive notifications for doorbell and camera events in one place.
• Scalable security: Expand your system anytime with compatible Arlo devices.
• Same app controls: Adjust settings, view feeds, and manage recordings uniformly.

Can You Add Arlo Doorbell Camera to Arlo Pro System Easily

Imagine this: you’ve just set up your Arlo Pro system—those sleek, weather-resistant cameras that give you peace of mind whether you’re at home or away. You’ve got eyes on your backyard, driveway, and side gate. But then it hits you: what about your front door? That’s where package thieves, unexpected guests, and late-night knocks happen. So, you start wondering, “Can I add an Arlo doorbell camera to my Arlo Pro system?”

You’re not alone. Many Arlo users face this exact dilemma. You’ve invested in a reliable home security ecosystem, and now you want to expand it—seamlessly. The good news? Arlo has designed its ecosystem to be modular and user-friendly, but like any tech setup, there are nuances. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or someone who just wants things to “just work,” this guide walks you through everything you need to know. From compatibility checks to step-by-step setup, we’ll explore how easy (or tricky) it really is to add an Arlo doorbell camera to your existing Arlo Pro system. No fluff, no sales pitch—just real talk from someone who’s been there.

Understanding Arlo’s Ecosystem: Pro System vs. Doorbell Cameras

What Makes the Arlo Pro System Unique?

The Arlo Pro system is known for its wireless, battery-powered cameras, easy installation, and integration with the Arlo app. Whether it’s the Arlo Pro 3, Pro 4, or Pro 5S, these cameras typically connect to a base station (like the Arlo SmartHub or Pro 2/3 base) that acts as a central hub. This setup offers benefits like:

• Local video storage (if using a microSD card)
• Extended battery life via optimized communication
• Better range and signal stability
• Support for features like AI-powered person/vehicle detection

For example, my own Arlo Pro 4 setup uses the SmartHub. It’s tucked in a closet, and the cameras connect reliably up to 300 feet away. The system runs smoothly, and I love the 2K HDR video quality. But the front door? That was still a blind spot—until I added a doorbell camera.

Types of Arlo Doorbell Cameras

Arlo offers two main doorbell camera options:

• Arlo Video Doorbell (wired): Requires existing doorbell wiring (16–24V AC). Offers 1536p video, 180° field of view, and two-way audio.
• Arlo Video Doorbell (wireless): Battery-powered, no wiring needed. Slightly lower resolution (1080p) but easier to install. Uses Wi-Fi directly—no base station.

Both models integrate with the Arlo app and support motion alerts, night vision, and cloud or local storage (with a SmartHub). The key difference lies in how they connect to your network—and that’s where compatibility with your Pro system comes into play.

Why Compatibility Matters

You might think, “It’s all Arlo—shouldn’t it just work?” Not always. The wired Arlo doorbell can connect to a SmartHub (same as Pro cameras), enabling local storage and extended features. The wireless version, however, connects directly to your home Wi-Fi. This means it won’t use the SmartHub, but it can still appear in the same Arlo app alongside your Pro cameras.

So, yes—you can add an Arlo doorbell camera to your Arlo Pro system. But the how and what features you gain depend on which doorbell model you choose.

Step-by-Step Guide: Adding an Arlo Doorbell to Your Pro System

Step 1: Choose the Right Doorbell Model

Before you buy, decide: wired or wireless?

• Wired doorbell: Best if you have existing doorbell wiring and want to use your SmartHub for local storage. Ideal for maximizing ecosystem integration.
• Wireless doorbell: Great for renters or homes without wiring. Easier install, but relies on Wi-Fi and battery (recharge every 3–6 months).

Personal tip: I went with the wired version because I already had a SmartHub. I wanted all my footage stored locally—no monthly cloud fees. Plus, I liked the idea of the doorbell using the same hub as my outdoor Pro cameras.

Step 2: Prepare Your Arlo App and Account

Make sure your Arlo app is updated (iOS/Android). Log in with the same account you use for your Pro system. This ensures all devices appear in one unified dashboard.

Also, check your Arlo subscription (if you have one). While basic features like live view and motion alerts are free, advanced AI detection, longer cloud storage, and activity zones may require a paid plan (Arlo Secure or Secure Plus).

Pro tip: If you’re using a SmartHub, ensure it’s connected and online. Open the app, go to Settings > My Devices > [SmartHub], and verify it shows “Online.”

Step 3: Install the Doorbell

For the wired doorbell:

1. Turn off power to your existing doorbell at the circuit breaker.
2. Remove the old doorbell and disconnect wires.
3. Mount the Arlo doorbell bracket using the included screws.
4. Connect the wires to the Arlo terminal (polarity doesn’t matter).
5. Attach the doorbell to the bracket and secure it.
6. Turn power back on.

For the wireless doorbell:

1. Charge the battery fully (takes ~2 hours).
2. Mount the bracket using screws or adhesive (included).
3. Attach the doorbell and ensure it’s secure.

Real-world note: I installed the wired version in about 30 minutes. The hardest part was fishing the wires through the wall. But the Arlo app’s step-by-step guide made it foolproof. The wireless version? Even easier—just stick it on with the adhesive mount (though I used screws for extra security).

Step 4: Add the Doorbell to the Arlo App

Open the Arlo app and tap the “+” icon. Select “Video Doorbell”, then follow the prompts:

• For wired: Choose “Wired Doorbell,” then “Connect to SmartHub.” The app will search for nearby SmartHubs.
• For wireless: Choose “Wireless Doorbell,” then connect to your Wi-Fi network. Enter your Wi-Fi password when prompted.

The app will guide you through naming the doorbell (e.g., “Front Door”), setting up motion zones, and enabling notifications. You’ll also be prompted to set up a chime kit (if using the wired version with an indoor chime).

Tip: During setup, the doorbell will play a tone. Make sure you’re near the door to hear it. If not, restart the process or check your power supply.

Step 5: Test and Customize

Once added, test:

• Live view: Tap the doorbell in the app. You should see a real-time feed.
• Two-way audio: Tap the mic icon and speak. The person at the door should hear you.
• Motion alerts: Walk in front of the doorbell. You should get a push notification.
• Chime: If wired, ring the doorbell to test indoor chime.

Customize settings like:

• Activity zones (to reduce false alerts from passing cars)
• Video quality (higher = more data usage)
• Night vision mode (auto, color, or black-and-white)

My experience: I set up activity zones to ignore the street and focus on the porch. It cut my false alerts by 70% overnight.

Key Benefits of Integrating a Doorbell with Your Arlo Pro System

Unified App Experience

One of the biggest perks? All your cameras—doorbell and Pro—live in the same Arlo app. No switching between apps. You get:

• A single dashboard to view live feeds, playback recordings, and adjust settings.
• Shared motion alerts (e.g., “Motion detected at Front Door” and “Motion detected at Backyard”).
• Consistent user interface and controls.

For example, when my package arrives, I can check the doorbell feed, then switch to the backyard camera to see if my dog is barking. It’s seamless.

Enhanced Security Coverage

Adding a doorbell camera completes your home security setup. Now you have:

• Perimeter monitoring (Pro cameras)
• Entry-point monitoring (doorbell)

This combo is powerful. I once caught a delivery driver leaving a package on the porch. The doorbell notified me, and I used two-way audio to say, “Thanks! I see it.” The driver smiled and waved—problem solved without a missed delivery.

Local Storage Options (With SmartHub)

If you use the wired doorbell with a SmartHub, you can store doorbell footage locally on a microSD card. Benefits include:

• No monthly cloud fees
• Faster playback (no buffering)
• Greater privacy (footage stays on your property)

My SmartHub has a 256GB microSD card. It stores about 30 days of 1080p footage from all my cameras—including the doorbell. I’ve never had a storage issue.

AI and Smart Features

Both Arlo Pro cameras and doorbells support:

• Person detection: Alerts you only when a person (not a pet or car) is detected.
• Package detection: Notifies you when a package is delivered.
• Facial recognition (with paid subscription): Labels familiar faces (e.g., “Mom”).

I use package detection religiously. It’s saved me from porch pirates twice.

Remote Access and Automation

With all devices in one app, you can:

• View feeds from anywhere (using mobile data or Wi-Fi).
• Use Arlo Smart for automation (e.g., “When doorbell rings, turn on porch light”).
• Integrate with smart home platforms like Google Home, Alexa, or Apple HomeKit.

I have a routine: when the doorbell rings, my Echo Show displays the live feed. It’s like having a virtual door peephole.

Common Challenges and How to Solve Them

Wi-Fi vs. SmartHub Connectivity

Wireless doorbell: Connects directly to Wi-Fi. This can cause issues if:

• Your Wi-Fi signal is weak near the door.
• You have a crowded network (many devices).

Solution: Use a Wi-Fi extender or mesh network (like Google Nest Wifi) to boost signal. Place the extender halfway between your router and the doorbell.

Wired doorbell: Uses SmartHub. If the SmartHub is far from the door, signal strength may drop.

Solution: Place the SmartHub closer to the door or use an Arlo Range Extender (sold separately).

Battery Life (Wireless Doorbell)

The wireless doorbell battery lasts 3–6 months, depending on usage. Heavy motion detection or frequent live viewing drains it faster.

Tips to extend battery life:

• Lower motion sensitivity.
• Reduce video quality (e.g., from 1080p to 720p).
• Limit live view sessions.

I charge mine every 5 months. The app sends a low-battery alert, so I never get caught off-guard.

Power Supply Issues (Wired Doorbell)

If your existing doorbell wiring is old or underpowered, the Arlo doorbell may not get enough voltage (needs 16–24V AC).

Signs of power issues:

• Doorbell won’t turn on.
• Chime doesn’t work.
• App shows “Low Power” warning.

Solution: Install an Arlo Power Supply (sold separately) to boost voltage. Or, hire an electrician to upgrade your wiring.

App Glitches and Syncing Delays

Sometimes, the doorbell won’t appear in the app immediately after setup. Or, it may take a few minutes to sync with the SmartHub.

Fixes:

• Restart the doorbell (unplug power for 30 seconds).
• Restart the SmartHub.
• Update the Arlo app and doorbell firmware.

I’ve had this happen twice. A simple restart fixed it both times.

False Alerts and Over-Sensitivity

Doorbells can trigger alerts from passing cars, animals, or shadows.

Solutions:

• Adjust activity zones to focus on the porch.
• Lower motion sensitivity in the app.
• Use AI filters (person/package detection).

I once got 20 alerts from a cat walking by. After tweaking zones, it dropped to 1–2 per day.

Data Table: Arlo Doorbell vs. Arlo Pro Cameras – Key Specs

Feature	Arlo Video Doorbell (Wired)	Arlo Video Doorbell (Wireless)	Arlo Pro 5S/4/3
Video Resolution	1536p	1080p	2K (Pro 5S/4), 1080p (Pro 3)
Field of View	180°	160°	160°
Power Source	Wired (16–24V AC)	Battery (rechargeable)	Battery (rechargeable)
Connectivity	SmartHub or Wi-Fi	Wi-Fi only	SmartHub or Wi-Fi
Local Storage	Yes (with SmartHub + microSD)	Yes (with SmartHub + microSD)	Yes (with SmartHub + microSD)
Two-Way Audio	Yes	Yes	Yes
Night Vision	Color (with spotlight), Black & White	Color (with spotlight), Black & White	Color (with spotlight), Black & White
AI Features	Person, package, vehicle detection	Person, package, vehicle detection	Person, package, vehicle detection
Smart Home Integration	Google, Alexa, Apple HomeKit	Google, Alexa, Apple HomeKit	Google, Alexa, Apple HomeKit

Final Verdict: Is It Easy to Add an Arlo Doorbell to Your Pro System?

So, can you add an Arlo doorbell camera to your Arlo Pro system easily? The short answer: yes, but it depends on your setup.

If you have a SmartHub and choose the wired doorbell, the process is smooth. You get full ecosystem integration—local storage, unified app, and consistent features. It’s like adding another camera to your existing network. The installation takes 30–60 minutes, and the app guides you every step of the way.

If you go wireless, it’s even easier to install (no wiring), but you lose the SmartHub connection. You’ll still get all the features in the app, but footage won’t use your local storage unless you add a SmartHub later. Battery life and Wi-Fi strength become bigger factors.

My take: I’d recommend the wired doorbell for most Pro system users. The upfront effort pays off in reliability, storage, and long-term convenience. But if you’re renting or hate drilling holes, the wireless version is a solid alternative.

One thing’s for sure: Arlo’s ecosystem is designed to grow with you. Whether you’re adding a doorbell, a floodlight camera, or extra Pro units, the process is intuitive. You’re not locked into a single product—you’re building a custom security network that fits your home.

And that’s the real win. You started with the Arlo Pro system for peace of mind. Now, with a doorbell camera, you’ve filled in the last gap. Your home isn’t just monitored—it’s connected. From the front porch to the backyard, you’re in control. And that’s something every homeowner can appreciate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you add Arlo Doorbell Camera to Arlo Pro system without compatibility issues?

Yes, the Arlo Doorbell Camera (wired or wireless) is fully compatible with the Arlo Pro system. Both devices use the same Arlo app and sync seamlessly through your Arlo SmartHub or base station.

Do I need extra equipment to integrate an Arlo Doorbell Camera into my existing Arlo Pro setup?

No additional hardware is needed if you already own an Arlo Pro system with a SmartHub or base station. Just connect the doorbell via the Arlo app—your existing subscription and cloud storage will extend to the new camera.

How do I add the Arlo Doorbell Camera to my Arlo Pro system using the app?

Open the Arlo app, tap “Add Device,” and follow the prompts to pair your Arlo Doorbell Camera. The system will automatically detect and link it to your Arlo Pro network within minutes.

Will my Arlo Pro system’s subscription cover recordings from the Arlo Doorbell Camera?

Yes, your existing Arlo Smart subscription (if active) applies to all devices, including the doorbell. Without a subscription, you’ll still get live streaming and basic alerts, but cloud recording requires a plan.

Can you add Arlo Doorbell Camera to Arlo Pro system if I use multiple cameras?

Absolutely. The Arlo Pro system supports up to 15 cameras per base station, including doorbells. Manage all devices, adjust settings, and view feeds in one unified dashboard.

Does the Arlo Doorbell Camera work with Arlo Pro 2 or Pro 3 base stations?

Yes, the Arlo Doorbell Camera is backward compatible with both Arlo Pro 2 and Pro 3 base stations. Ensure your base station’s firmware is updated for optimal performance.