Do Arlo Cameras Work With Nest A Complete Compatibility Guide

Arlo cameras do not natively integrate with Nest devices, as the two brands operate on separate ecosystems with no official support for cross-platform functionality. However, you can use third-party tools like IFTTT or Google Home routines to bridge basic commands, such as viewing Arlo feeds on Nest smart displays—though advanced features like motion alerts or automation remain limited. For seamless compatibility, stick to one ecosystem or explore workarounds carefully.

Key Takeaways

• No direct compatibility: Arlo cameras don’t natively integrate with Nest devices or hubs.
• Use IFTTT for automation: Connect Arlo and Nest via IFTTT for limited cross-platform triggers.
• Google Home works best: Nest ecosystem syncs better with Google Home than Arlo’s own app.
• No shared alerts: Motion alerts stay separate; no unified notifications across Arlo and Nest.
• Manual setup required: Pairing demands third-party tools—no plug-and-play solution exists.
• Check cloud storage: Arlo and Nest use different plans; manage recordings separately.

Why You Might Want to Mix Arlo and Nest in Your Home Security Setup

Imagine this: You’re halfway to work when you suddenly remember—did I lock the back gate? Or maybe you’re on vacation, sipping coffee in Paris, and you want to check if the kids are home from school. That’s when your home security system becomes your peace of mind. Now, if you’re like many homeowners, you’ve probably invested in smart security devices—maybe an Arlo camera for its sleek design and outdoor durability, or a Nest doorbell because of its seamless Google integration. But what if you have both? Can these two powerhouses play nice together?

The short answer is: Arlo cameras and Nest devices don’t officially work together—at least not in the way you might hope. But don’t hit the panic button just yet. While they don’t natively sync like two best friends at a sleepover, there are workarounds, smart strategies, and third-party tools that can help bridge the gap. Whether you’re trying to unify your alerts, view feeds from both brands in one app, or automate your security routine, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about do Arlo cameras work with Nest. We’ll explore compatibility, limitations, clever hacks, and real-life setups to help you get the most out of your smart home ecosystem—without breaking the bank or your brain.

Understanding the Arlo and Nest Ecosystems

What Makes Arlo Cameras Stand Out?

Arlo, a brand under Netgear, is known for its wireless, weather-resistant cameras that offer flexibility and high-quality video. Whether you have the Arlo Pro 5, Arlo Ultra 2, or the budget-friendly Arlo Essential, these cameras are designed for easy setup and reliable performance. Key features include:

• Wire-free installation (no drilling or wiring)
• 1080p to 4K video resolution
• Night vision, motion detection, and two-way audio
• Cloud and local storage options
• Integration with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant (for basic voice commands)

Arlo’s strength lies in its modularity—you can add more cameras, doorbells, and even smart lights to expand your system. But here’s the catch: Arlo uses its own app (the Arlo Secure app) to manage devices, view live feeds, and access recordings. It’s not built to share data directly with other platforms.

How Nest Devices Fit Into the Smart Home Puzzle

On the other side, Nest—owned by Google—has built a reputation for sleek design and deep integration with Google services. Devices like the Nest Doorbell (wired or battery), Nest Cam (indoor/outdoor), and Nest Hub are designed to work seamlessly within the Google Home ecosystem. Key features include:

• Google Assistant voice control
• Familiar interface via Google Home app
• AI-powered detection (e.g., people, packages, animals)
• Google Photos integration for video storage (on select plans)
• Works with other Google smart devices (thermostats, speakers, etc.)

Nest devices thrive in homes where Google is the central hub. They’re especially useful if you use Google Assistant daily, have a Chromecast, or want to use Google’s AI for smarter alerts. But like Arlo, Nest devices are locked into their own app and cloud ecosystem.

The Core Compatibility Issue: Two Separate Worlds

Here’s the reality: Arlo and Nest are built on different platforms, use different apps, and don’t share data natively. Arlo uses the Arlo Secure app, while Nest uses the Google Home app. They don’t communicate directly. You can’t, for example, view your Arlo backyard cam in the Google Home app alongside your Nest doorbell—unless you use a workaround (more on that later).

Think of it like having an iPhone and an Android phone. Both are great, but they don’t sync your photos or messages without extra steps. The same applies here. But don’t worry—this doesn’t mean you have to choose one over the other. Many users successfully run both systems side by side. The key is understanding how to make them coexist without constant app-switching frustration.

Can Arlo Cameras Work with Nest? The Official Answer

No Direct Integration—Here’s Why

Let’s get straight to the point: Do Arlo cameras work with Nest? Officially, no. There is no built-in integration between Arlo and Nest. You can’t:

• View Arlo cameras in the Google Home app
• Get Nest-style AI alerts (e.g., “package detected”) from Arlo
• Use Nest Hub to show Arlo feeds as a default camera
• Trigger Arlo recordings from a Nest event (e.g., “when Nest doorbell detects motion, start Arlo recording”)

This is due to technical and business reasons. Arlo and Nest are competitors in the smart home space. Arlo wants users to stay in its app for subscriptions, while Google wants Nest users to rely on Google services. Neither company has incentive to build a direct bridge.

What About Google Assistant and Alexa?

Here’s a common misconception: “If both work with Google Assistant, can’t I just use voice commands to unify them?” The answer is… partially.

• You can view Arlo camera feeds on a Google Nest Hub or Chromecast using the “Cast” feature. Just say, “Hey Google, show me the backyard camera on the living room display.” This pulls the feed from the Arlo app to your screen.
• You can ask Google Assistant to arm or disarm your Arlo system, but only if you’ve linked your Arlo account to Google Home.
• You can use Alexa to do similar things—view feeds, arm/disarm, get status updates.

But here’s the catch: These are voice shortcuts, not true integration. You still need to open the Arlo app to review recordings, adjust settings, or respond to alerts. It’s like having a remote control for your TV—it’s helpful, but you still need the TV itself.

Real-World Example: A Mixed Setup in Action

Let’s say you have:

• An Arlo Pro 5 in the backyard (great for wide coverage and night vision)
• A Nest Doorbell (battery) at the front door (excellent for package detection)
• A Google Nest Hub Max in the kitchen

You can:

• Say, “Hey Google, show the backyard” to see the Arlo feed on the Nest Hub.
• Get a Nest alert when someone rings the doorbell.
• Use Google Assistant to disarm Arlo when you come home.

But you can’t:

• See both cameras side by side on the Nest Hub without switching feeds manually.
• Get a unified notification that says, “Front door opened + backyard motion detected.”
• Automatically record on Arlo when Nest detects a person.

So while voice control helps, it doesn’t solve the core issue: fragmented alerts and multiple apps.

Workarounds and Third-Party Tools to Bridge the Gap

Using IFTTT (If This Then That) for Smart Automations

IFTTT is your best friend when it comes to connecting incompatible smart home devices. It’s a free (and paid) service that lets you create “applets”—tiny programs that trigger actions across platforms.

For example, you can create an IFTTT applet that:

• Turns on an Arlo spotlight when your Nest doorbell detects motion.
• Sends a text or email when Arlo records a video (useful if you don’t want to check the app constantly).
• Starts recording on Arlo when Nest detects a person (requires a paid IFTTT plan).

To set this up:

1. Go to IFTTT.com and sign in.
2. Connect your Arlo and Google (Nest) accounts.
3. Search for applets like “Arlo motion detected → Nest alert” or create your own.
4. Test it with a quick motion test.

Tip: Use the free IFTTT plan for basic automations. The paid “Pro” plan (around $5/month) offers faster triggers and more actions per day.

Leveraging Google Home Routines (With Limits)

Google Home Routines can help automate actions, but they’re limited with Arlo. You can:

• Set a routine like “Good Night” that arms your Arlo system and turns off lights.
• Create a “I’m Home” routine that disarms Arlo and adjusts the thermostat.

But you can’t use routines to trigger Arlo actions based on Nest events—only the other way around. For example, you can’t say, “When Nest detects a person, turn on Arlo spotlight.” That requires IFTTT.

Smart Displays and Multi-View Hacks

If you have a Google Nest Hub or Chromecast with Google TV, you can view Arlo feeds by casting from the Arlo app. Here’s how:

1. Open the Arlo Secure app on your phone or tablet.
2. Select the camera you want to view.
3. Tap the “Cast” icon (looks like a TV with a Wi-Fi symbol).
4. Choose your Nest Hub or TV.

Pro tip: Create a shortcut on your phone’s home screen that opens the Arlo camera feed and casts it instantly. This saves time when you’re rushing out the door.

Using Third-Party Apps (With Caution)

Some apps like SmartThings (Samsung) or Home Assistant claim to integrate both Arlo and Nest. While they can help, they come with trade-offs:

• SmartThings: Can connect Arlo via IFTTT and Nest via Google integration. But the interface is clunky, and not all features are supported.
• Home Assistant: A powerful open-source platform that can unify both systems. But it requires technical know-how, server setup, and ongoing maintenance.

For most users, IFTTT + Google Home + Arlo app is the sweet spot—simple, effective, and free.

Storage, Alerts, and User Experience: What to Expect

Separate Apps, Separate Subscriptions

This is a big one: Arlo and Nest use different cloud storage plans. You’ll likely need two subscriptions to get full functionality.

Here’s a quick comparison:

Feature	Arlo Secure (Cloud)	Nest Aware (Cloud)
Starting Price	$2.99/month per camera (7-day history)	$6/month (10-day history for all devices)
Video Quality	Up to 4K (Arlo Ultra)	Up to 1080p (Nest Doorbell)
AI Detection	Person, vehicle, animal (on select plans)	Person, package, animal, vehicle
Local Storage	Yes (via USB or SmartHub)	No (cloud only)
App	Arlo Secure	Google Home

Tip: If you only have one Arlo camera, the $2.99 plan might be enough. But if you have multiple devices, Nest Aware’s flat $6/month for all devices can be cheaper.

Alert Fatigue: Managing Notifications from Two Systems

One downside of using both Arlo and Nest is alert overload. You’ll get notifications from:

• Arlo app (motion, recording, low battery)
• Google Home app (doorbell ring, person detected)
• IFTTT (if you set up automations)

To avoid missing important alerts:

• Customize notification settings—turn off “motion detected” for low-priority areas (like a tree branch).
• Use “Do Not Disturb” schedules on both apps during sleep hours.
• Label devices clearly (e.g., “Arlo – Backyard,” “Nest – Front Door”) so you know where the alert is coming from.

User Experience: The Good, the Bad, and the Workaround

The Good:

• You get the best of both worlds—Arlo’s outdoor durability + Nest’s AI smarts.
• Voice control works well for quick checks.
• IFTTT adds powerful automation.

The Bad:

• Switching between apps is annoying.
• Two subscriptions = higher cost.
• No unified timeline or event history.

The Workaround:

• Use IFTTT for critical automations (e.g., “if Nest detects person, turn on Arlo spotlight”).
• Set up a Google Home routine for daily use (e.g., “Good Night” arms both systems).
• Keep the Arlo app on your home screen for quick access.

Should You Mix Arlo and Nest? A Practical Decision Guide

When It Makes Sense to Use Both

Mixing Arlo and Nest isn’t a bad idea if:

• You already own devices from both brands and don’t want to replace them.
• You need specific features (e.g., Arlo’s weather resistance for a shed, Nest’s package detection at the door).
• You’re comfortable with basic tech setup (IFTTT, routines).
• You’re okay with two apps and two subscriptions.

When You Should Stick to One Ecosystem

Consider choosing one brand if:

• You want a unified experience (one app, one timeline).
• You’re on a tight budget (avoiding double subscriptions).
• You prefer Google Assistant over Alexa (Nest wins) or Alexa over Google (Arlo has better Alexa integration).
• You’re setting up a new system from scratch—pick the ecosystem that fits your smart home better.

Future Outlook: Will They Ever Work Together?

As smart home standards evolve (like Matter), we may see better cross-compatibility. Google and Amazon are pushing for open ecosystems, which could eventually allow Arlo and Nest to share data more seamlessly. But for now, expect the status quo: separate apps, separate clouds, and clever workarounds.

The good news? The tools are already here. With IFTTT, Google Home, and a little patience, you can create a hybrid system that’s almost as smooth as a native setup.

Final Thoughts: Making the Most of Your Hybrid Security System

So, do Arlo cameras work with Nest? Not directly—but they absolutely can coexist in your smart home. The key is managing expectations and using the right tools. You won’t get a single app that shows all your feeds and alerts, but you can automate actions, view feeds on your Nest Hub, and even trigger one camera based on the other’s activity.

Think of it like a smart home orchestra: Arlo and Nest are different instruments. They don’t play the same song, but with a skilled conductor (that’s you!), they can create a harmonious security experience. Use IFTTT for automation, Google Home for routines, and voice commands for convenience. Accept that you’ll need two apps—but make them work smarter, not harder.

At the end of the day, your security system should serve you, not the other way around. Whether you choose Arlo, Nest, or both, focus on what matters: peace of mind, reliability, and simplicity. And if that means checking two apps once in a while? Well, that’s a small price to pay for knowing your home is truly protected.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Arlo cameras work with Nest devices?

Arlo cameras do not natively integrate with Nest devices, as they operate on separate ecosystems (Arlo uses its own app and cloud, while Nest relies on Google’s platform). However, you can view both systems side-by-side using their respective apps or limited third-party workarounds like IFTTT.

Can I connect my Arlo camera to the Nest app?

No, the Nest app does not support direct integration with Arlo cameras. Both brands maintain independent platforms, so you’ll need to use the Arlo app to manage Arlo devices and the Nest app for Nest products.

Is there a way to make Arlo and Nest work together?

While direct compatibility is limited, you can use IFTTT (If This Then That) to create basic automation between Arlo and Nest, such as triggering Nest thermostat adjustments when Arlo detects motion. This isn’t seamless but offers some cross-functional control.

Are Arlo and Nest compatible with Google Assistant?

Yes! Both Arlo and Nest cameras are compatible with Google Assistant, allowing you to use voice commands or stream feeds to Google Nest Hubs. However, this doesn’t enable direct device integration—each camera still requires its own app.

Can I view Arlo and Nest cameras on the same screen?

There’s no official way to view Arlo and Nest feeds simultaneously in one interface. Some users leverage multi-app dashboards or third-party smart home platforms like Home Assistant for a unified view, but setup complexity varies.

Do Arlo cameras work with Nest Secure or Doorbell?

Arlo cameras cannot sync directly with Nest Secure or Nest Doorbell for shared alerts or recordings. The systems operate independently, though you can monitor both via their apps or use IFTTT for simple cross-platform triggers.