Do Arlo Cameras Have Monitors Find Out Here

Arlo cameras do not include built-in monitors, but they seamlessly connect to your smartphone, tablet, or compatible smart display for real-time viewing and alerts. With the Arlo app, you can access live feeds, recordings, and motion notifications from anywhere, offering flexible, on-the-go monitoring without the need for a dedicated screen.

Key Takeaways

• Arlo cameras lack built-in monitors: They rely on smartphones, tablets, or web apps for live viewing.
• Use the Arlo app: Stream footage directly to your mobile device for real-time monitoring.
• Add an Arlo SmartHub: Connect to external monitors via HDMI for larger screen viewing.
• Pair with smart displays: Use Alexa or Google Assistant to view feeds on compatible screens.
• No direct TV integration: Requires a third-party device or casting for TV-based monitoring.
• Prioritize cloud storage: Access recorded footage remotely via subscription plans.

Understanding Arlo Cameras and Monitoring Options

When you’re looking to keep an eye on your home or business, security cameras are often the first line of defense. Among the many brands available, Arlo has built a strong reputation for wireless, high-definition surveillance systems. But one common question that pops up is: do Arlo cameras have monitors? It’s a fair question—after all, if you’re setting up a security system, you want to know exactly how and where you’ll be viewing your footage.

Let’s get real for a second. I remember the first time I set up a security camera. I had this image of a big, clunky monitor mounted on the wall like something out of a spy movie. But when I opened the box, there was no monitor—just a camera, a charging cable, and a quick-start guide. Sound familiar? If you’ve been wondering whether Arlo includes a physical display or monitor with its cameras, you’re not alone. The answer isn’t a simple “yes” or “no,” and that’s why we’re diving deep into how Arlo handles monitoring, what tools you actually get, and how you can view your camera feeds in ways that fit your lifestyle.

How Arlo Cameras Work: Wireless and App-Based Monitoring

Arlo cameras are designed with modern, tech-savvy users in mind. Unlike traditional security systems that rely on coaxial cables and DVRs with built-in monitors, Arlo takes a wireless, cloud-based approach. This means the cameras connect to your Wi-Fi network and transmit video directly to the cloud, where it can be accessed via the Arlo app. So, in short: Arlo cameras do not come with a physical monitor. Instead, they use your smartphone, tablet, or web browser as the primary display.

The Role of the Arlo App

The Arlo app is the heart of the system. It’s available for both iOS and Android devices, and it’s where you’ll view live feeds, receive motion alerts, and review recorded clips. The app is intuitive and user-friendly, even for those who aren’t tech experts. For example, when my neighbor’s dog set off my front-yard camera at 3 a.m., the app sent me a notification with a thumbnail. I tapped it, saw the pup wagging its tail, and laughed instead of panicking.

The app also lets you:

• View up to four camera streams simultaneously in a grid layout
• Zoom in on specific areas using pinch-to-zoom
• Switch between day and night vision views
• Adjust motion sensitivity and activity zones
• Share access with family members or trusted neighbors

Web Browser Access

If you prefer not to use a mobile device, Arlo also offers a web portal at my.arlo.com. This is great for checking in from your desktop or laptop. I’ve used it when working from my home office—just a quick glance at the browser tab, and I know if the delivery person has dropped off my package. The web interface mirrors the app’s features, including live viewing, playback, and settings adjustments.

One tip: Bookmark the Arlo web portal on your browser for faster access. You’ll thank yourself the next time you’re in a hurry and need to check the backyard before letting the dog out.

Do Arlo Cameras Need a Base Station or Hub?

This is where things get a bit more nuanced. Some Arlo models—especially the older ones like the Arlo Pro 3 or Arlo Ultra—require a base station (also called a SmartHub). The base station acts as a bridge between your Wi-Fi router and the cameras. It connects via Ethernet and provides a more stable connection, especially for cameras that are far from your router.

Base Station vs. Monitor: What’s the Difference?

It’s easy to confuse the base station with a monitor because it’s a physical box. But here’s the key: the base station is not a display. It doesn’t show video. It’s more like a Wi-Fi extender with added storage and processing power. Think of it as the “brain” of the system, not the “eyes.”

For example, the Arlo Pro 3 base station:

• Connects to your router via Ethernet
• Supports up to 16 cameras
• Includes local storage via a microSD card (optional)
• Enables 4K video streaming and enhanced motion detection

So, while the base station is essential for certain models, it still doesn’t function as a monitor. You’ll still rely on your phone, tablet, or computer to view footage.

Newer Models: No Base Station Needed

Good news for those who want a simpler setup: newer Arlo models like the Arlo Essential Indoor and Outdoor cameras connect directly to your Wi-Fi. No base station required. This means fewer devices, less clutter, and faster installation. I recently helped my mom set up an Arlo Essential Outdoor camera, and we had it up and running in under 10 minutes—no Ethernet cables, no hub, just Wi-Fi and the app.

However, keep in mind that without a base station, you may lose some advanced features like local storage and extended range. It’s a trade-off between simplicity and functionality.

External Monitors and Display Options for Arlo Cameras

So, Arlo doesn’t include a built-in monitor—but that doesn’t mean you can’t use one. In fact, there are several ways to turn a regular screen into a dedicated Arlo display. Whether you want a constant view of your front door or a wall-mounted security dashboard, you’ve got options.

Using a Smart TV or Streaming Device

One of the easiest ways to view Arlo feeds on a larger screen is through a smart TV or streaming device like Roku, Amazon Fire TV, or Apple TV. The Arlo app is available on these platforms, so you can stream live video right to your living room TV.

For example, I use a Fire TV Stick with my Arlo setup. When I’m watching a movie and hear a noise outside, I just say, “Alexa, show me the front camera,” and the feed pops up instantly. It’s not a permanent monitor, but it’s a great way to get a quick look without pulling out your phone.

Pro tip: Use the “Picture-in-Picture” mode (if available) to keep the camera feed visible while watching another app.

Dedicated Tablets as Monitors

If you want a real monitor, consider repurposing an old tablet. Mount it on a wall or place it on a stand in your kitchen or hallway, and run the Arlo app in full-screen mode. You can even set it to auto-rotate or display multiple cameras in a grid.

I’ve seen this done beautifully in a friend’s home. She has a second-gen iPad mounted near the front door, showing a live feed of her driveway and backyard. It’s sleek, unobtrusive, and always on. Plus, when the doorbell rings, she can see who’s there before opening the door.

Just make sure to:

• Use a secure mount to prevent theft or damage
• Enable auto-brightness to save battery (if using a portable tablet)
• Keep the device charged or plugged in

Third-Party Display Solutions

Some users have gotten creative with third-party tools. For example, you can use a Raspberry Pi with a small touchscreen to create a custom Arlo monitor. There are also open-source projects that pull Arlo feeds into home automation dashboards like Home Assistant or Node-RED.

While these solutions require some technical know-how, they offer a level of customization that the standard app can’t match. Imagine having a dashboard that shows your Arlo cameras, weather, and smart lights—all on one screen. It’s not for everyone, but for tech enthusiasts, it’s a dream come true.

Cloud vs. Local Storage: How Arlo Handles Footage

Another key part of monitoring is knowing where your video goes and how long it stays there. Arlo offers both cloud storage and local storage, depending on your setup and preferences.

Cloud Storage and Arlo Smart Plans

By default, Arlo stores your recordings in the cloud. But here’s the catch: free cloud storage is limited. Without a subscription, you only get:

• 7 days of rolling video history
• 30-second video clips
• No person or package detection

To unlock full features, you need an Arlo Smart plan. These start at around $3 per month per camera and include:

• 30 days of cloud storage
• Person, vehicle, and package detection
• Activity zones and custom alerts
• Video verification for emergency dispatch (in some regions)

Think of it like a Netflix subscription for your security system. You pay a little each month, and in return, you get peace of mind and smarter monitoring.

Local Storage with Base Station or USB Drive

If you’re not comfortable with cloud storage (or want a backup), you can use local storage. Cameras connected to a base station can record to a microSD card inserted into the hub. Some newer models, like the Arlo Pro 4, also support USB drives.

Local storage is great for:

• Reducing reliance on internet
• Keeping footage private and offline
• Longer retention (depending on card size)

But there are downsides. If the base station is stolen or damaged, your footage could be lost. Also, accessing local videos requires physically retrieving the card or connecting to the base station via the app.

Hybrid Approach: Best of Both Worlds

Many users, including me, use a hybrid setup: cloud for convenience and alerts, local for backup. For example, I have an Arlo Pro 3 with a base station and a 128GB microSD card. All videos are stored locally, but I also have a Smart plan so I get instant notifications and can access footage from anywhere.

This way, if my internet goes down, I still have local recordings. And if my base station fails, I have cloud backups. It’s a bit more expensive, but for critical areas like the front door or garage, it’s worth it.

Comparing Arlo to Other Brands: Monitors and Viewing Options

How does Arlo stack up against competitors when it comes to monitoring? Let’s take a quick look at how other popular brands handle displays and viewing.

Ring and Google Nest: Similar App-Based Models

Like Arlo, Ring and Google Nest rely on smartphone apps and web portals. Neither includes a physical monitor. Ring has a desktop app, while Nest integrates with Google Home and Chromecast for TV viewing. Both offer cloud subscriptions with smart alerts, similar to Arlo Smart.

One advantage Nest has: seamless integration with Google Assistant and Chromecast. You can say, “Hey Google, show me the front camera,” and it appears on your TV instantly. Arlo supports Alexa but not Google Assistant for live viewing—something to consider if you’re in the Google ecosystem.

Eufy: Local-Only with Optional Monitor

Eufy is a standout for privacy. Their cameras store everything locally (no cloud required), and they offer a dedicated monitor called the Eufy Security HomeBase 2. This device has a small screen that shows live feeds and recorded clips.

It’s not a full-sized monitor, but it’s a physical display—something Arlo doesn’t offer. If you want a standalone monitor without using a tablet or TV, Eufy might be a better fit.

Traditional DVR Systems: Built-In Monitors

Old-school systems from brands like Lorex or Swann often come with a DVR that includes a built-in monitor or HDMI output. These are great for people who want a dedicated security station in a basement or office.

But they come with trade-offs: wired cameras, less flexibility, and no remote access unless you set up port forwarding. For most modern users, the convenience of wireless and app-based monitoring outweighs the appeal of a physical monitor.

Data Table: Arlo Camera Models and Monitoring Features

Model	Requires Base Station?	Cloud Storage (Free)	Local Storage	TV/Streaming Support	Best For
Arlo Essential Outdoor	No	7 days, 30s clips	No	Yes (Fire TV, Roku)	Simple, budget setups
Arlo Pro 3	Yes	7 days, 30s clips	microSD card	Yes	High-quality video, local backup
Arlo Ultra	Yes	7 days, 30s clips	microSD card	Yes	4K resolution, advanced alerts
Arlo Pro 4	No (optional)	7 days, 30s clips	USB drive	Yes	Wireless flexibility with local backup
Arlo Go (LTE)	No	7 days, 30s clips	No	Yes	Remote locations without Wi-Fi

Final Thoughts: Do Arlo Cameras Have Monitors?

So, do Arlo cameras have monitors? The short answer: no, they don’t come with physical monitors. But that doesn’t mean you can’t view your footage on a screen. In fact, Arlo’s app-based system offers incredible flexibility. Whether you’re checking in from your phone, streaming to your TV, or using a tablet as a dedicated display, there are plenty of ways to monitor your home.

What I love most about Arlo is how adaptable it is. You’re not locked into one way of viewing. Want a quick glance? Use your phone. Want a constant view? Mount a tablet. Prefer privacy? Use local storage. The system bends to your needs, not the other way around.

Of course, there are trade-offs. The lack of a built-in monitor might frustrate users who want a traditional security station. And the subscription model for cloud features isn’t for everyone. But for most people, especially those who already use smartphones and smart home devices, Arlo’s approach makes sense.

At the end of the day, a monitor is just a tool. What matters most is whether your security system gives you peace of mind. And with Arlo, whether you’re using an old iPad on the wall or your phone in your pocket, you’re never far from the truth of what’s happening at home. That’s what really counts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Arlo cameras have monitors included in the box?

No, Arlo cameras do not come with physical monitors in the box. You’ll need to use the Arlo app on your smartphone, tablet, or a compatible smart display to view live feeds and recordings.

Can I use a monitor with my Arlo camera system?

Yes, you can connect your Arlo cameras to external monitors using the Arlo app on a tablet, smart TV, or via the Arlo SmartHub connected to a display. This lets you view feeds directly on a larger screen.

What’s the best way to monitor my Arlo cameras?

The most common way to monitor Arlo cameras is through the Arlo app, which supports live viewing, motion alerts, and playback. For a dedicated setup, consider using an Arlo video doorbell with a compatible indoor monitor.

Are there Arlo cameras with built-in monitors?

No, Arlo cameras don’t have built-in monitors. However, some bundles (like the Arlo Essential Video Doorbell) offer optional add-ons like the Arlo Chime or indoor monitors for a more traditional monitoring experience.

Can I view my Arlo cameras on a TV or computer monitor?

Yes, you can view your Arlo cameras on a TV or computer monitor using screen mirroring, casting (via Chromecast or AirPlay), or by accessing the Arlo web portal on a browser connected to a monitor.

Do Arlo Pro or Ultra systems include a monitor?

Neither the Arlo Pro nor Ultra systems include a physical monitor. Both rely on the Arlo app or compatible smart home devices (like Echo Show or Google Nest Hub) for monitoring and alerts.