Do Any Other Cameras Work With Arlo Find Out Here

Only Arlo-branded cameras are fully compatible with Arlo systems, ensuring seamless integration, cloud storage, and app functionality. While third-party cameras may connect via ONVIF or local RTSP in some base stations, features like AI detection, alerts, and Arlo Smart subscriptions won’t work reliably—limiting performance and user experience.

Key Takeaways

• Arlo systems are proprietary: Most third-party cameras won’t integrate natively.
• Check ONVIF support: Some Arlo models work with ONVIF-compatible cameras.
• Use Arlo Bridge: Enables select non-Arlo cameras to connect via HomeKit.
• RTSP is limited: Only certain Arlo cams support RTSP for external feeds.
• Stick to Arlo for full features: Non-Arlo cams lack AI alerts and cloud storage.
• Test compatibility first: Verify third-party camera specs before purchasing.

Why Compatibility Matters in Smart Home Security

Imagine this: You’ve just installed your shiny new Arlo Pro 5S camera. The setup was smooth, the video quality is crisp, and you’re feeling pretty confident about your home’s safety. Then, a few weeks later, you spot a blind spot near your backyard gate—one that your current camera doesn’t cover. You think, *“No problem, I’ll just add another camera.”* But then the question hits you: Do any other cameras work with Arlo?

It’s a common dilemma. Many of us start with one or two Arlo cameras, drawn in by their sleek design, easy app setup, and reliable cloud storage. But as our security needs grow, we want to expand—without starting over. The idea of buying a different brand and hoping it plays nice with your existing Arlo ecosystem can feel like inviting a stranger to a family dinner. Will they get along? Will the food be good? Or will it just be awkward?

You’re not alone in asking this. Whether you’re trying to fill a coverage gap, replace an older Arlo model, or just want to mix and match for better value, understanding cross-camera compatibility is key. In this post, I’ll walk you through what works, what doesn’t, and how to build a smart security system that feels seamless—without breaking the bank or your sanity.

Understanding the Arlo Ecosystem: How It Works

Before we dive into whether other cameras can work with Arlo, let’s get a clear picture of what the Arlo ecosystem actually is. Think of it like your home’s security brain: it’s not just the cameras, but the whole network of devices, apps, and services that work together.

Arlo’s Core Components

At its heart, Arlo relies on a few key pieces:

• Cameras: Whether wired, battery-powered, or solar-charged, all Arlo cameras connect to your home Wi-Fi or a base station.
• Base Station or Wi-Fi Connection: Some older models (like the Arlo Pro 2) use a hub, while newer ones (Pro 4, Ultra 2) connect directly to Wi-Fi. The base station helps manage multiple cameras and stores local video backups.
• Arlo App: This is your control center. From live viewing to motion alerts and cloud storage, everything runs through the app.
• Cloud Storage & Smart Features: Arlo offers AI-powered detection (like person, package, or vehicle alerts) and optional cloud plans for video history.

How Cameras “Talk” to the App

Here’s where things get interesting. Arlo cameras use a proprietary communication protocol. That means they’re built to work *only* within the Arlo app and ecosystem. Unlike open-source platforms like Home Assistant, Arlo doesn’t publish its API or device specs for third-party developers. So, when you plug in a camera, it authenticates with Arlo’s servers using unique firmware and encryption.

For example, if you try to connect a Wyze Cam to the Arlo app, it won’t work—not because the camera is bad, but because it speaks a different “language.” The Arlo app simply doesn’t recognize it.

Real-World Example: The “One App” Dream

I once tried to add a Ring Stick Up Cam to my Arlo setup because it was on sale. I thought, *“Hey, both are popular brands—maybe they’ll sync up?”* Nope. The Arlo app didn’t even detect the Ring camera. I ended up with two apps, two login accounts, and a cluttered phone screen. Not ideal.

The takeaway? Arlo’s ecosystem is closed by design. It prioritizes security, stability, and a unified user experience—but that comes at the cost of flexibility.

Do Third-Party Cameras Work With Arlo? The Short Answer

Let’s cut to the chase: No, other brand cameras do not natively work with the Arlo app. You can’t plug in a Google Nest Cam, Eufy, or Blink camera and expect it to show up in your Arlo feed. The Arlo app only recognizes Arlo-branded devices.

Why Arlo Doesn’t Allow Third-Party Devices

There are a few reasons behind this:

• Security: Arlo wants to control firmware updates and data handling to prevent vulnerabilities. Opening the door to third-party devices increases risk.
• User Experience: A unified interface with consistent features (like motion zones, AI detection, and siren control) only works if all devices follow the same rules.
• Business Model: Arlo makes money from hardware sales and subscription plans. Allowing competitors into their app would undermine both.

But Wait—Are There Workarounds?

While direct integration isn’t possible, there *are* indirect ways to use other cameras alongside Arlo. These won’t make them appear in the Arlo app, but they can coexist in your smart home. Think of it like having two different smart assistants—Alexa and Google Assistant—on the same network. They don’t merge, but you can still use both.

For example:

• Use a Smart Home Hub: Devices like Apple HomeKit (with compatible cameras), Google Home, or Home Assistant can pull in feeds from multiple brands into one dashboard.
• IP Camera Streams: If a camera supports RTSP (Real-Time Streaming Protocol), you can sometimes embed its live feed into a custom dashboard or NVR (Network Video Recorder).
• Third-Party Apps: Apps like Blue Iris or SecuritySpy let you monitor feeds from different cameras in one place—even if they’re not in the Arlo app.

When Workarounds Make Sense

Let’s say you already own a Reolink Argus 3 (which is great for night vision) but want to add a Arlo Pro 5S for its two-way audio and siren. You can’t combine them in the Arlo app, but you *can*:

• Set both to record to their respective cloud plans (Arlo and Reolink).
• Use a Home Assistant dashboard to view both feeds on one screen.
• Set up motion alerts in each app to send notifications to your phone.

It’s not seamless, but it’s functional. And for many users, that’s enough.

Mixing Arlo Generations: Can Older and Newer Models Work Together?

Now, what if you’re *not* trying to add a different brand—just a different Arlo model? Like, can an Arlo Pro 3 work with an Arlo Ultra 2? The answer is a resounding yes—and this is where Arlo shines.

Arlo’s Generational Compatibility

Arlo is one of the few brands that maintains strong backward and forward compatibility. As long as your cameras are from the Arlo line, they’ll work together in the same app. Here’s how it works:

• Same App, Same Account: All Arlo cameras appear in the Arlo app, regardless of model or generation.
• Mixed Base Stations: If you have older cameras using a base station (like Pro 2 or Pro 3), you can still add newer Wi-Fi-only cameras (like Pro 4 or Essential). The base station isn’t required for newer models, but it won’t hurt either.
• Feature Parity: While newer models have better AI detection, 4K video, or color night vision, they’ll still sync alerts, schedules, and modes with older ones.

Real-World Example: My Mixed Setup

I have a mix of Arlo Pro 3 (indoor), Arlo Pro 4 (outdoor), and an Arlo Essential Spotlight (front porch). They all show up in the Arlo app. I can:

• Arm/disarm all cameras at once.
• Set custom motion zones (even though the Pro 4 has more advanced AI).
• Use the same cloud plan for all (I pay for the 4K plan, and it covers all cameras).

The only downside? The older Pro 3 doesn’t support 4K, so I don’t get the full benefit of my premium plan on that camera. But it still records in 2K, and the motion detection is reliable.

What About Base Stations?

Here’s a common confusion point: Do you *need* a base station if you have newer Arlo models?

• No, but it helps. Newer Arlo cameras connect directly to Wi-Fi, so they don’t require a base station.
• But a base station offers benefits: It provides a backup storage option (local USB drive), reduces Wi-Fi load, and extends range for battery-powered cameras.
• You can mix and match: Use a base station for older cameras and Wi-Fi for newer ones—all in the same app.

Tip: If you’re expanding your system, consider keeping your old base station. It can still manage older cameras while your newer ones connect directly to Wi-Fi.

Smart Home Integrations: How Arlo Plays With Other Platforms

Even though other cameras don’t work *in* the Arlo app, Arlo itself plays nicely with major smart home platforms. This is your best bet for creating a unified experience.

Arlo + Apple HomeKit

Arlo is one of the few security camera brands that supports Apple HomeKit Secure Video. This means:

• Your Arlo cameras appear in the Apple Home app.
• Video is end-to-end encrypted and stored in iCloud.
• You can view feeds, get alerts, and control cameras using Siri.

Limitation: Only certain Arlo models support HomeKit (like Pro 3, Pro 4, and Ultra). Also, HomeKit doesn’t let you add non-Arlo cameras to the same feed—but you *can* use HomeKit-compatible cameras (like Eufy or Logitech) alongside Arlo in the Home app.

Arlo + Google Home

Arlo works with Google Assistant:

• Use voice commands: “Hey Google, show the backyard camera.”
• View Arlo feeds on Google Nest Hub or Chromecast.
• Integrate with other Google-compatible devices (like lights or door locks).

Bonus: You can use Google Home Routines to trigger actions. For example: “When Arlo detects motion, turn on the porch light.”

Arlo + Amazon Alexa

Arlo has deep Alexa integration:

• View feeds on Echo Show or Fire TV.
• Use voice commands: “Alexa, show the front door.”
• Create routines: “When motion is detected, send a notification to my phone.”

Pro Tip: Pair Arlo with Amazon Sidewalk for extended range (if supported). It uses nearby Wi-Fi networks to boost signal—great for large properties.

Home Assistant: The Ultimate Unifier

If you’re tech-savvy, Home Assistant is a game-changer. It’s an open-source platform that lets you:

• Pull live feeds from Arlo, Ring, Eufy, and more into one dashboard.
• Create custom automations (e.g., “If Arlo detects a person, turn on Eufy floodlights”).
• Store video locally (no cloud fees).

It’s not for everyone—setup takes time—but for power users, it’s the closest thing to a “universal” security system.

When to Stick With Arlo vs. Mixing Brands

Now that we’ve covered the options, how do you decide whether to stay all-in on Arlo or mix in other brands? Let’s break it down.

Stick With Arlo If…

• You want simplicity: One app, one subscription, one login. No juggling multiple accounts.
• You’re expanding your current system: Adding another Arlo camera is plug-and-play.
• You use Arlo-specific features: Like the siren, color night vision, or AI detection (which are hard to replicate).
• You have an Arlo Smart Hub or doorbell: These integrate tightly with cameras.

Consider Mixing Brands If…

• You have specific needs Arlo can’t meet: For example, a Eufy Dual Cam offers 2K video *and* a wide-angle lens—something Arlo doesn’t have.
• Cost is a concern: Some brands (like Wyze or Blink) offer similar features at lower prices.
• You’re building a custom system: Using Home Assistant or a NVR, you can mix and match for the best value.
• You need local storage only: Some third-party cameras offer free local storage (no subscription), unlike Arlo’s cloud-heavy model.

Cost Comparison Table: Arlo vs. Alternatives

Feature	Arlo Pro 5S	Eufy SoloCam S340	Wyze Cam v3	Google Nest Cam (Battery)
Video Quality	2K HDR	2K + Wide Angle	1080p	1080p
Night Vision	Color (with spotlight)	Color (dual IR)	Color (spotlight)	Black & White
Cloud Storage	Required (plans start at $2.99/month)	Optional (free local storage)	Optional (free 14-day cloud or local)	Required (plans start at $6/month)
AI Detection	Person, package, vehicle	Person, pet, vehicle	Person, pet, vehicle	Person, animal, vehicle
Works with Arlo?	Yes (native)	No (but works in Home Assistant)	No (but works in Home Assistant)	No (but works with Google Home)
Price (approx.)	$249.99	$199.99	$35.98	$179.99

My Recommendation

If you’re already invested in Arlo, stick with it for expansion. The seamless app experience and feature consistency are worth the premium. But if you’re starting fresh or need a specific feature (like local storage or a wide-angle lens), don’t be afraid to mix—especially if you use Home Assistant or a smart hub to unify everything.

Final Thoughts: Building Your Ideal Security System

So, do any other cameras work with Arlo? Not directly in the app—but that doesn’t mean you’re stuck with one brand forever. The smart home world is more flexible than it seems.

Think of your security system like a puzzle. Arlo is a great piece—reliable, easy to use, and feature-rich. But sometimes, you need a different shape to fill the gap. Whether it’s a budget-friendly Wyze Cam, a wide-angle Eufy, or a Google Nest for voice control, mixing brands can actually make your system *better*—as long as you plan it right.

My advice? Start with what you have. If you love your Arlo setup, add more Arlo cameras to fill blind spots. Use smart home integrations (like HomeKit, Google Home, or Home Assistant) to bring in other feeds. And if you’re building from scratch, ask yourself: “What matters most to me?” Is it simplicity? Cost? Local storage? The answer will guide your choices.

Remember: No system is perfect. But with a little creativity, you can build a security setup that feels seamless—even if it’s made of different pieces. And hey, if you ever feel overwhelmed, just take a breath. You’ve got this. Your home’s safety is worth the effort—and you don’t have to do it all in one brand.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do any other cameras work with Arlo for a unified security system?

Arlo’s ecosystem is primarily designed to work with its own branded cameras, but some third-party cameras can integrate via ONVIF or RTSP protocols if Arlo Base Stations support them. Always check compatibility before purchasing.

Can I use non-Arlo cameras with Arlo Base Stations?

Most Arlo Base Stations only recognize Arlo-branded cameras due to proprietary firmware. However, select models like the Arlo Pro 3/4 support ONVIF, allowing limited third-party camera integration.

Are there any workarounds to connect other cameras to Arlo’s app?

You can use third-party apps like Home Assistant or IFTTT as a bridge to view non-Arlo cameras alongside Arlo feeds, but native functionality (e.g., alerts) may be limited. This requires technical setup.

Does Arlo support RTSP or ONVIF for other cameras?

Some newer Arlo models (e.g., Ultra 2, Pro 5) support ONVIF, enabling select third-party RTSP cameras to stream to the Arlo app. Verify your camera’s RTSP/ONVIF compatibility first.

What are the best non-Arlo cameras that work with Arlo?

Brands like Reolink, Amcrest, and Hikvision (ONVIF-compliant models) can work with Arlo systems that support ONVIF. Features like AI detection may not carry over, though.

Will using other cameras with Arlo void my warranty?

Using third-party cameras with Arlo devices shouldn’t void your warranty, but Arlo’s support team may not assist with troubleshooting non-Arlo hardware issues. Proceed with caution.