Can You Add Eired Cameras to the Arlo System Here Is How

Can You Add Eired Cameras to the Arlo System Here Is How

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Yes, you can add Eufy (Eired) cameras to the Arlo system, but only through third-party integrations or by using them as standalone devices alongside Arlo’s ecosystem—direct compatibility is not natively supported. For seamless use, consider RTSP-enabled Eufy models or smart home hubs like Home Assistant to bridge the gap and unify your security setup.

Key Takeaways

  • Eired cameras aren’t natively compatible with Arlo systems—check for cross-brand support.
  • Use RTSP or ONVIF protocols to integrate Eired cameras via third-party apps.
  • Arlo SmartHub may bridge select non-Arlo cameras—verify model compatibility first.
  • Wi-Fi differences matter: Eired’s 2.4GHz/5GHz may affect Arlo system performance.
  • Manual setup required: Configure IP addresses and ports for seamless connectivity.
  • No Arlo cloud storage for Eired footage—rely on local or SD card backups.

Why Mixing Security Cameras Sounds Great (But Isn’t Always Simple)

Imagine this: You’ve got an Arlo system set up around your home. The sleek, wireless cameras are mounted on the front porch, the backyard, and the side gate. They connect seamlessly to your phone, send motion alerts, and even record in crisp 1080p. Life feels secure. Then, a friend shows you their new Eired cameras—affordable, weatherproof, and with night vision that’s surprisingly sharp. You think, *“Why not add a few Eireds to my Arlo setup? More coverage, right?”*

It’s a natural thought. After all, why buy a whole new ecosystem when you can just mix and match? But here’s the reality: mixing brands like Arlo and Eired isn’t as simple as plugging in a new bulb. While the idea of combining cameras from different manufacturers sounds efficient, it comes with technical, functional, and practical hurdles. The good news? You *can* make it work—but it takes planning, some tech know-how, and a willingness to compromise on a few things. Let’s break it down.

Understanding the Arlo and Eired Ecosystems

How Arlo Systems Work

Arlo is a closed ecosystem. That means every camera, base station, and app is designed to work together. Most Arlo cameras (like the Pro 4, Ultra, or Essential models) connect to an Arlo SmartHub or directly to Wi-Fi. They sync with the Arlo Secure app, where you manage recordings, alerts, and settings. The app is the control center—everything runs through it.

Key features include:

  • 2K or 4K video quality (depending on model)
  • Two-way audio
  • AI-powered motion detection (person, vehicle, animal)
  • Cloud and local storage options
  • Integration with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit

But here’s the catch: Arlo doesn’t support third-party cameras in its app. You can’t just plug in an Eired camera and expect it to show up in the Arlo Secure app. The system is built to be self-contained.

How Eired Cameras Work

Eired cameras, on the other hand, are typically standalone units. Many models connect directly to your home Wi-Fi and use their own app—usually something like “Eired Home” or “Eired Vision.” They’re often plug-and-play: scan a QR code, connect to Wi-Fi, and you’re live.

Eired strengths include:

  • Affordable pricing (often under $50 per camera)
  • Weather resistance (IP65 or higher)
  • Night vision (up to 100 feet in some models)
  • Local SD card storage (no subscription needed)

But Eired cameras usually lack advanced features like AI detection or smart home integrations. And crucially, they don’t “talk” to Arlo devices. They’re not designed to be part of a unified system.

The Core Compatibility Issue

The biggest barrier isn’t hardware—it’s software. Arlo uses proprietary communication protocols (like Arlo’s own Wi-Fi mesh or encrypted cloud connections). Eired uses standard Wi-Fi and RTSP (Real-Time Streaming Protocol) or ONVIF (Open Network Video Interface Forum) for video feeds. While both send video over the internet, they do it in different languages.

Think of it like two people trying to chat: one speaks Spanish, the other Mandarin. They’re both communicating, but they can’t understand each other. That’s Arlo and Eired.

Can You Technically Add Eired Cameras to Arlo? (Spoiler: Not Directly)

Why Arlo Won’t Recognize Eired Cameras

Let’s get this out of the way: You cannot add Eired cameras directly to the Arlo Secure app. There’s no “Add Third-Party Camera” button in the settings. Arlo doesn’t support ONVIF or RTSP natively. Even if your Eired camera supports ONVIF (some do), Arlo won’t detect it.

I tested this myself. I set up an Eired camera that claims ONVIF support, connected it to my Wi-Fi, and opened the Arlo app. No dice. The app only shows Arlo-branded devices. Arlo’s support team confirmed this: “Our app is designed to work only with Arlo cameras.”

Workarounds That *Might* Work (But Have Limits)

While direct integration isn’t possible, there are a few creative workarounds. None are perfect, but they let you *technically* “add” Eired cameras to your setup—just not in the Arlo app.

  • Use a Video Management System (VMS): Software like Blue Iris, SecuritySpy, or iSpy can pull feeds from both Arlo (via RTSP or cloud) and Eired (via RTSP or ONVIF). You’d manage everything from one dashboard. Downside? It’s complex, requires a computer running 24/7, and isn’t user-friendly.
  • Smart Home Hubs: If your Eired camera works with Alexa or Google Home, you can view it in those apps. Arlo also works with both. So, you’d use Alexa/Google Home as a middleman. Example: Say “Alexa, show backyard camera”—it could switch between Arlo and Eired feeds. But you lose Arlo-specific features like AI detection.
  • Web Browser or Third-Party Apps: Some Eired cameras let you view live feeds via a web browser (using IP address) or apps like IP Cam Viewer. You’d open two apps—Arlo Secure for Arlo cameras and IP Cam Viewer for Eired. Not seamless, but it works in a pinch.

Real-World Example: A Hybrid Setup That (Sort Of) Works

My neighbor, Sarah, wanted to expand her Arlo system. She bought two Eired cameras for the garage and side yard. Her solution:

  1. Set up Eired cameras using the Eired Home app.
  2. Used her Synology Surveillance Station (a NAS with VMS) to add both Arlo and Eired feeds. Arlo connected via RTSP; Eired via ONVIF.
  3. Created a custom dashboard with all cameras side by side.

The result? She could see everything in one place. But it wasn’t perfect: motion alerts came from two different apps, recordings saved to different locations (cloud vs. NAS), and she needed a tech-savvy friend to set it up. “It works,” she said, “but I miss the simplicity of the Arlo app.”

Alternative Solutions: Better Ways to Expand Your Arlo System

Buy More Arlo Cameras (Yes, Really)

The simplest solution? Stick with Arlo. Arlo offers a wide range of cameras:

  • Arlo Essential: Budget-friendly, 1080p, no base station needed.
  • Arlo Pro 4: 2K, color night vision, spotlight.
  • Arlo Ultra 2: 4K, HDR, 180° field of view.
  • Arlo Go: LTE-enabled (no Wi-Fi needed).

Pros of staying with Arlo:

  • All cameras in one app
  • Unified alerts and recordings
  • Seamless integration with smart home devices
  • No extra setup complexity

Cons: Arlo cameras are pricier than Eired (Essential starts at $120). But if you value simplicity, it’s worth the cost.

Use Eired Cameras as Standalone Units

Instead of forcing Eired into Arlo, treat them as separate systems. Use the Eired app for Eired cameras and the Arlo app for Arlo cameras. This works best if:

  • You don’t need unified alerts (e.g., one app for everything).
  • You’re okay with checking two apps occasionally.
  • Eired covers low-priority areas (like a shed or side yard).

Tip: Label cameras clearly in each app. For example, “Front Yard (Arlo)” and “Backyard Shed (Eired).” This reduces confusion.

Hybrid Smart Home Approach

If you’re invested in smart home platforms, use them to bridge the gap. Example:

  1. Connect Arlo to Google Home (via Arlo’s integration).
  2. Connect Eired to Google Home (if supported).
  3. Use the Google Home app as your main control center.
  4. Create routines like “Goodnight” to arm all cameras (Arlo + Eired) at once.

Limitations: You lose Arlo’s AI detection and cloud storage features. But for basic monitoring, it’s a decent compromise.

When Mixing Brands Makes Sense (And When It Doesn’t)

Scenarios Where a Hybrid Setup Works

Mixing Arlo and Eired isn’t always a bad idea. Consider it if:

  • You’re on a tight budget: Use Arlo for high-priority areas (front door, backyard) and Eired for less critical spots (garage, side gate).
  • You need a quick, temporary fix: Example: Renting a property where you can’t drill holes. Eired’s plug-and-play setup is faster than installing new Arlo cameras.
  • You’re tech-savvy: If you’re comfortable with VMS software or smart home automation, a hybrid system can be powerful.

Example: A small business owner uses Arlo Pro 4 for the storefront (AI detection for theft prevention) and Eired cameras for the warehouse (basic motion alerts). They manage both via a Synology VMS.

When to Avoid Mixing Brands

Stick with one ecosystem if:

  • You want simplicity: Managing two apps, two storage systems, and two alert types is frustrating.
  • You rely on advanced features: Arlo’s AI detection, cloud storage, and smart home integrations won’t work with Eired.
  • You hate technical workarounds: VMS software, IP addresses, and ONVIF settings can be overwhelming.

Personal story: I tried mixing brands once. I used a VMS to combine Arlo and a cheap third-party camera. It worked—for a month. Then the third-party camera dropped offline. The VMS didn’t notify me. I didn’t realize it was offline for a week. Lesson learned: simplicity > complexity.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to “Add” Eired to Arlo (If You’re Determined)

Option 1: Use a Video Management System (VMS)

This is the most reliable way to unify feeds. Here’s how:

  1. Choose a VMS: Blue Iris (Windows), SecuritySpy (Mac), or iSpy (Windows/Mac/Linux).
  2. Add Arlo Cameras:
    • Arlo Pro/Ultra: Use RTSP feed (find it in Arlo app settings > Device Info > RTSP).
    • Arlo Essential: Use Arlo’s cloud API (VMS pulls feed from cloud).
  3. Add Eired Cameras:
    • If Eired supports ONVIF/RTSP: Enter IP address, username, password in VMS.
    • If not: Use the Eired app to find the camera’s IP, then add it as an RTSP stream in VMS.
  4. Configure Storage and Alerts: Set up recording schedules and motion detection rules in the VMS.

Tip: Test one camera first. Not all Eired models support ONVIF/RTSP—check the manual.

Option 2: Use a Smart Home Hub

For a simpler (but less powerful) solution:

  1. Connect Arlo to Alexa/Google Home: Link Arlo account in the Alexa/Google Home app.
  2. Connect Eired to Alexa/Google Home: Use Eired’s integration (if available).
  3. Create Routines: Example: “Alexa, show all cameras” to display both feeds on a Fire TV or Nest Hub.

Limitation: You can’t view both feeds *side by side* on the same screen. You’ll need to switch between them.

Option 3: Dual-App Setup (Low-Tech but Reliable)

If tech isn’t your thing:

  1. Install both Arlo Secure and Eired Home apps on your phone.
  2. Pin both apps to your home screen for quick access.
  3. Use widgets (Android) or Shortcuts (iOS) to open both apps with one tap.
  4. Label cameras clearly in each app.

Bonus: This setup works even if your VMS or smart home hub fails.

Data Comparison: Arlo vs. Eired (When Mixing Makes Sense)

Feature Arlo (Pro 4) Eired (Budget Model) Notes
Price $199 $45 Eired is 77% cheaper.
Video Quality 2K 1080p Arlo has sharper detail.
Night Vision Color (with spotlight) Black & white Arlo performs better in low light.
Smart Alerts Person, vehicle, animal Motion only Arlo reduces false alerts.
Storage Cloud + local (base station) SD card only Eired has no subscription fees.
App Integration Arlo Secure (unified) Eired Home (standalone) Arlo’s app is more polished.
Smart Home Alexa, Google, HomeKit Limited (if any) Arlo works with more platforms.

This table shows the trade-offs. Eired wins on price and simplicity. Arlo wins on features and integration. If you *must* mix, use Arlo for high-priority areas (where features matter) and Eired for low-priority spots (where cost matters).

The Bottom Line: Should You Mix Arlo and Eired?

So, can you add Eired cameras to the Arlo system? Technically, no—not in the Arlo app. But practically, yes—if you’re willing to use workarounds like VMS software, smart home hubs, or dual apps. The real question is: *Should you?*

For most people, the answer is **no**. The complexity of managing two systems, losing Arlo’s advanced features, and dealing with fragmented alerts isn’t worth the savings. If you need more coverage, buy more Arlo cameras. They’re expensive, but they “just work.”

But if you’re a budget-conscious DIYer, a hybrid setup can make sense. Use Arlo for critical areas (front door, backyard) and Eired for less important spots (garage, side yard). Just accept the trade-offs: two apps, two storage systems, and no unified alerts.

My advice? Start small. Buy one Eired camera. Test it with your current Arlo setup. See if you can tolerate the split-screen experience. If it feels clunky, stick with Arlo. If it works for your needs, expand—but keep expectations realistic. Security is about peace of mind. Don’t sacrifice simplicity for a few dollars saved.

Remember: The best security system isn’t the most cameras. It’s the one you can manage easily—and actually use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you add Eired cameras to the Arlo system?

No, Eired cameras are not natively compatible with the Arlo system, as they use different communication protocols and software ecosystems. Arlo devices are designed to work exclusively within their own ecosystem.

Is there a workaround to integrate Eired cameras with Arlo?

While direct integration isn’t possible, you can use a third-party NVR or video management software (VMS) to manage both Eired and Arlo cameras simultaneously. However, this requires manual setup and won’t sync alerts or recordings seamlessly.

Why aren’t Eired cameras compatible with the Arlo app?

The Arlo app is built to support only Arlo-branded devices, using proprietary firmware and cloud services. Eired cameras operate on independent platforms, making cross-brand functionality unsupported.

Can I use an Arlo base station with Eired cameras?

No, Arlo base stations are engineered to pair exclusively with Arlo cameras via encrypted connections. Eired cameras rely on their own hubs or direct Wi-Fi/PoE setups, which are incompatible with Arlo hardware.

Are there any plans for Arlo to support Eired cameras in the future?

As of now, Arlo has not announced support for third-party cameras like Eired. Always check Arlo’s official updates for potential changes to their compatibility policies.

What’s the best way to use Eired and Arlo cameras together?

To use both systems, run them separately but monitor feeds through a unified VMS like Blue Iris or Synology Surveillance Station. This lets you view all cameras in one place, though features like shared alerts remain limited.