Do Arlo Cameras Work With Netgear Cameras Find Out Here

Arlo and Netgear cameras do not natively integrate or work together due to proprietary software ecosystems that limit cross-compatibility. While both brands offer reliable home security solutions, they operate on separate apps, hubs, and cloud platforms, making direct communication or unified monitoring impossible without third-party workarounds.

Key Takeaways

• No native integration: Arlo and Netgear cameras don’t work together out of the box.
• Use third-party apps: Try RTSP or ONVIF for limited cross-brand compatibility.
• Check firmware updates: Some newer models may support shared protocols.
• Separate hubs required: Each brand needs its own base station for full features.
• Cloud storage differs: Footage stays siloed in respective apps (Arlo/Netgear).
• Manual workarounds: Combine feeds via third-party NVRs or smart home platforms.

Why You Might Be Wondering About Arlo and Netgear Compatibility

So, you’ve got a home security setup with Arlo cameras. Or maybe you’re considering Netgear cameras. Either way, you’re probably asking yourself: Do Arlo cameras work with Netgear cameras? It’s a fair question—especially if you’re trying to build a smart home system without doubling your apps, hubs, or monthly fees. I’ve been there. A few years ago, I had two Arlo Pro 3 cameras watching the front yard and a Netgear Arlo Go (yes, confusing, right?) on the back porch. I thought, “Hey, same brand name—maybe they’ll play nice?” Spoiler: they didn’t. And that’s when I started digging into the real compatibility story.

You’re not alone in this confusion. Many people assume that since both brands are in the smart home and Wi-Fi camera space, they’d integrate seamlessly. After all, Arlo was once a Netgear brand—launched as a division in 2014 and spun off into its own company in 2018. That shared history makes the question even more relevant. But here’s the thing: just because two companies were once related doesn’t mean their products talk to each other today. In fact, they often don’t. And if you’re trying to mix and match, you’ll want to know exactly what works, what doesn’t, and what your best alternatives are. Let’s break it down together.

Understanding the Arlo and Netgear Relationship: What Changed?

The Split That Changed Everything

Let’s start with a little backstory. Arlo Technologies was founded in 2014 as a subsidiary of Netgear, focused entirely on smart home security cameras. At that time, all Arlo cameras were sold under the Netgear brand, and their tech was deeply intertwined. You’d buy an “Arlo by Netgear” camera, and everything—from the app to the firmware—was managed through Netgear’s ecosystem. But in 2018, Netgear spun off Arlo into an independent company. That meant Arlo kept its name, its product line, and its cloud platform, while Netgear kept its routers, extenders, and other networking gear.

After the split, Arlo continued developing its own cameras, apps, and AI-powered features (like person detection and package alerts). Meanwhile, Netgear shifted focus back to networking hardware. While Netgear still sells some security cameras under its own name—like the Netgear Arlo Go (a rebranded Arlo Go) and the Netgear Smart Home Camera (SHC)—these are often older models or rebranded versions of discontinued Arlo products. The key point? Arlo and Netgear no longer share software, firmware, or cloud services.

Why This Matters for Compatibility

Because Arlo and Netgear now operate independently, their ecosystems are completely separate. Arlo uses the Arlo Secure app and Arlo SmartHub (or base station) for device management, cloud storage, and AI features. Netgear cameras, even if they look similar or were once Arlo models, typically use the Netgear Smart Home app or a third-party platform like Google Home or Apple HomeKit.

Think of it like two siblings who used to live in the same house. They might have the same last name, but they now have different rooms, different keys, and different Wi-Fi passwords. You can’t just walk from one room to the other—you need the right app to unlock each door. So, when you ask, “Do Arlo cameras work with Netgear cameras?” what you’re really asking is: Can I use one app to control both? And the answer, in most cases, is no.

Do Arlo Cameras Work With Netgear Cameras? The Short Answer

Direct Integration? Not Really

The short answer: No, Arlo cameras do not natively work with Netgear cameras through a single app or hub. They use different apps, different cloud platforms, and different communication protocols. You can’t pair an Arlo Pro 5 with a Netgear Smart Home Camera and manage them together in the Arlo app. Similarly, the Netgear app won’t let you add a newer Arlo camera like the Arlo Ultra 2 or Arlo Essential Spotlight.

For example, I once tried to add my old Netgear Arlo Go (which was technically an Arlo Go model) to my current Arlo app. The camera was recognized during setup, but it kept failing to connect to the Arlo SmartHub. Why? Because Netgear had locked it to its own cloud servers. Even though the hardware was identical to the Arlo Go, the firmware and backend were tied to Netgear’s system. No amount of resetting, re-pairing, or yelling at the router helped.

Workarounds and Partial Compatibility

That said, there are some ways to make them coexist—just not seamlessly. Here are a few practical options:

• Use multiple apps: The simplest (but least elegant) solution is to run both the Arlo app and the Netgear Smart Home app on your phone. This lets you monitor both camera feeds separately. It’s not ideal, but it works if you’re okay with switching apps.
• Smart home platforms: Both Arlo and newer Netgear cameras support Google Home and Apple HomeKit (though with limitations). You can add both types of cameras to Google Home or Apple Home and view them in one dashboard. However, advanced features like motion zones or AI alerts won’t carry over—you’ll still need the original apps for those.
• Third-party automation tools: If you’re tech-savvy, you can use IFTTT (If This Then That) to trigger actions between the two. For example, “When my Arlo camera detects motion, turn on my Netgear smart plug.” This doesn’t merge video feeds, but it helps integrate routines.

One user in a Reddit thread shared that they used Home Assistant to create a unified dashboard. They ran both Arlo and Netgear cameras through their local network and displayed feeds on a tablet in the kitchen. “It took a weekend to set up,” they said, “but now I can see everything in one place.” That’s a great option if you’re into DIY smart home projects.

Technical Differences That Prevent Seamless Integration

Different Apps and Cloud Platforms

At the core of the incompatibility issue are the apps and cloud services. Arlo’s app is built around its own ecosystem, including Arlo SmartHub (which handles local storage and device pairing) and Arlo Cloud (for remote access and AI features). Netgear cameras, even the rebranded Arlo models, often rely on Netgear’s cloud or third-party platforms like AWS or Google Cloud.

For instance, the Netgear Smart Home Camera (SHC) uses the Netgear Smart Home app and stores footage on Netgear’s servers. It doesn’t support Arlo’s AI features, and you can’t pair it with an Arlo base station. The communication protocol is different—Arlo uses a proprietary 2.4 GHz wireless link between the camera and hub, while Netgear cameras typically connect directly to Wi-Fi.

Firmware and Security Updates

Another big difference: firmware and security updates. Arlo regularly pushes updates to improve camera performance, fix bugs, and patch security flaws. These updates are delivered through the Arlo app and require the camera to be registered in the Arlo ecosystem. Netgear cameras get updates through their own app—and sometimes not at all.

I had a Netgear Arlo Go that stopped receiving updates after 2020. Arlo, on the other hand, still supports the original Arlo Go (sold under their brand) with firmware upgrades. This means the Netgear version is stuck with outdated software, which can be a security risk. If you’re mixing cameras, you’ll need to monitor updates for each brand separately.

Storage and Subscription Plans

Storage is another sticking point. Arlo offers Arlo Secure plans, which include cloud storage, AI detection, and emergency response. These plans only work with Arlo-branded cameras. Netgear cameras use different subscription models—or none at all. For example, the Netgear SHC offers local storage via microSD card but doesn’t have a cloud subscription. That means if you want cloud backup for both systems, you’ll need two separate subscriptions.

Here’s a quick comparison of storage options:

Feature	Arlo Cameras	Netgear Cameras (e.g., SHC)
Cloud Storage	Yes (Arlo Secure plans: $2.99–$14.99/month)	No (local storage only)
Local Storage	Yes (via SmartHub with USB drive)	Yes (microSD card)
AI Detection	Yes (person, vehicle, package)	No (basic motion detection)
App Required	Arlo app	Netgear Smart Home app
Firmware Updates	Regular (via Arlo app)	Limited or none

This table shows why mixing systems can get messy. You’re not just dealing with different apps—you’re dealing with different levels of functionality and support.

Can You Mix and Match? Real-World Tips and Tricks

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

So, is it worth mixing Arlo and Netgear cameras? It depends on your goals. If you’re looking for a unified, easy-to-manage system, mixing brands is probably a bad idea. But if you’re on a budget or already own one type of camera, there are smart ways to make it work.

• Good reasons to mix:
  • You already own a Netgear camera and want to add one Arlo camera for better AI features.
  • You’re using a smart home platform (Google Home, Apple Home) that supports both.
  • You’re okay with using two apps and don’t mind the extra management.
• Bad reasons to mix:
  • You want one app to control everything.
  • You need advanced features (like person detection) on all cameras.
  • You hate managing multiple subscriptions or firmware updates.

Practical Tips for a Hybrid Setup

If you decide to go hybrid, here are some tips to make it less painful:

• Use a smart home dashboard: Apps like Google Home or Home Assistant let you view feeds from both brands on one screen. You won’t get full control, but you can see who’s at the door without switching apps.
• Set up notifications wisely: Turn off duplicate alerts. For example, if your Arlo camera detects motion, don’t also have your Netgear camera send a notification. Use IFTTT to trigger a single alert or turn on a light.
• Label your cameras clearly: In your apps, name cameras by location (e.g., “Arlo – Front Door,” “Netgear – Back Porch”). This makes it easier to tell them apart.
• Check Wi-Fi bandwidth: More cameras mean more data. Make sure your router can handle the load. I recommend a dual-band router with QoS (Quality of Service) settings to prioritize camera traffic.

One of my neighbors runs a hybrid setup: three Arlo cameras for the front yard and two Netgear cameras for the garage. They use Google Home to view all five feeds on a tablet. “It’s not perfect,” they said, “but I only need to open one app to see everything. The AI alerts from Arlo are worth it.”

What’s the Best Alternative? Staying in One Ecosystem

Why Sticking With One Brand Is Usually Better

After years of testing hybrid setups, I’ve come to a simple conclusion: staying in one ecosystem is almost always better. Here’s why:

• One app, one hub, one subscription: No juggling, no confusion. You get a consistent experience across all cameras.
• Full feature access: You can use AI detection, smart alerts, and cloud storage on every camera.
• Better support: If something breaks, you only have to contact one company.
• Future-proofing: Updates, new features, and compatibility are more likely within a single brand.

Top Recommendations for a Unified System

If you’re starting from scratch or planning to upgrade, here are my top picks:

• Arlo: Best for AI features, cloud storage, and outdoor durability. Try the Arlo Pro 5 or Arlo Essential XL for a balance of price and performance.
• Netgear (for networking): If you’re already using Netgear routers, consider their Nighthawk Pro Gaming line to optimize camera traffic. But for cameras themselves, I’d stick with Arlo or another full-featured brand.
• Other great alternatives:
  • Google Nest: Seamless integration with Google Home, excellent AI, and no hub required.
  • Eufy: Local storage, no subscription, and strong privacy controls.
  • Ring: Good for Amazon Alexa users and has a wide range of outdoor cameras.

The bottom line? If you want the easiest, most reliable system, pick one brand and stick with it. Mixing Arlo and Netgear might seem like a shortcut, but it often leads to more headaches than it’s worth.

Final Thoughts: Making the Right Choice for Your Home

So, do Arlo cameras work with Netgear cameras? In a word: no—not in the way most people hope. They don’t share apps, hubs, or cloud services. You can’t pair them seamlessly, and you’ll end up managing two separate systems. That said, they can coexist with some effort—especially if you’re using smart home platforms or automation tools.

But here’s my advice: think long-term. A hybrid setup might save you $50 today, but it could cost you hours of frustration tomorrow. If you’re building a security system, prioritize consistency, reliability, and support over mixing brands. Whether you go all-in with Arlo, switch to Google Nest, or try Eufy, pick a system that fits your lifestyle—and stick with it.

And if you’re stuck with a Netgear camera from the past? Don’t throw it out. Use it as a backup, a secondary view, or a camera for a less critical area. Just don’t expect it to play nicely with your shiny new Arlo setup. After all, smart home tech should make life easier—not harder. And sometimes, the smartest move is knowing when to keep things simple.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Arlo cameras work with Netgear cameras?

No, Arlo and Netgear cameras are not designed to work together as they use different ecosystems and software platforms. Each brand requires its own app and hub for full functionality.

Can I integrate Arlo cameras into a Netgear surveillance system?

Unfortunately, integration is not supported due to incompatible protocols and cloud services. You’ll need to manage Arlo and Netgear devices separately through their respective apps.

Is there a way to link my Arlo and Netgear cameras for unified viewing?

While you can’t natively link them, third-party smart home platforms like IFTTT may offer limited automation between the two. For seamless use, stick to one brand’s ecosystem.

Will Arlo cameras work with a Netgear Orbi Wi-Fi system?

Yes, Arlo cameras can connect to a Netgear Orbi Wi-Fi network since they rely on standard Wi-Fi protocols. However, they still operate independently via the Arlo app, not Netgear’s.

Do Arlo and Netgear share the same cloud storage or features?

No, both brands use separate cloud storage plans and offer distinct features. Subscriptions and data management must be handled individually for each system.

Can I use a Netgear NVR with Arlo cameras for recording?

Generally, no—Arlo cameras require their own base station or cloud storage for video recording. Netgear NVRs are designed to work only with compatible Netgear cameras.