Do Other Cameras Work With Arlo Hub Find Out Now

Most non-Arlo cameras are not compatible with the Arlo Hub, as it’s designed to work exclusively with Arlo-branded devices for seamless integration and security. Attempting to use third-party cameras may result in limited or no functionality, so stick with Arlo products for full feature access and reliable performance.

Key Takeaways

• Arlo Hub compatibility is limited to Arlo-branded cameras only.
• Third-party cameras won’t integrate with Arlo Hub due to proprietary tech.
• Use Arlo app exclusively for managing Arlo Hub and connected devices.
• Check model specs before buying to confirm Hub support.
• No workarounds exist for adding non-Arlo cameras to the Hub.
• Future updates may expand compatibility—monitor Arlo’s official announcements.

Why You Might Be Asking: “Do Other Cameras Work With Arlo Hub?”

Let’s be honest—smart home security is no longer a luxury; it’s a necessity. Whether you’re keeping an eye on your front porch, monitoring the kids playing in the backyard, or just want to feel safer when you’re away, security cameras have become essential. And when it comes to smart security, Arlo has built a solid reputation. Their sleek cameras, easy-to-use app, and reliable Arlo Hub (also known as the SmartHub or Base Station) make them a favorite among homeowners and renters alike.

But here’s the thing: you’ve probably already invested in a few cameras—maybe a Ring, a Eufy, or even a Google Nest—and now you’re eyeing an Arlo Hub to centralize your system. Or perhaps you’re building a multi-camera setup and wondering if you can mix brands for better performance or cost savings. That leads to the big question: Do other cameras work with Arlo Hub? It’s a smart question, and you’re not alone in asking it. After all, nobody wants to buy a $100 hub only to find out it only talks to Arlo-branded cameras. So let’s dive in, break down the facts, and help you make a decision that fits your home—without the tech jargon or confusing specs.

Understanding the Arlo Hub: What It Does (and What It Doesn’t)

What Is the Arlo Hub?

The Arlo Hub, officially called the Arlo SmartHub or Arlo Base Station, is the brain of the Arlo ecosystem. Think of it as the central nervous system for your Arlo cameras. It connects to your home Wi-Fi network and communicates with your cameras via a secure, dedicated wireless connection—often using a protocol called Arlo Secure Link (based on 900 MHz or 2.4 GHz frequencies, depending on the model).

Why does this matter? Because this dedicated connection helps reduce interference, improves battery life on wireless cameras, and ensures faster response times. Unlike cameras that connect directly to Wi-Fi (which can slow down your network or suffer from lag), Arlo cameras offload much of the processing and communication to the hub.

Key Features of the Arlo Hub

• Enhanced Security: Uses AES-128 encryption to protect data between the hub and cameras.
• Local Storage Option: Some models support microSD cards for local video backup (great for privacy and avoiding cloud fees).
• Better Range & Battery Life: The hub acts as a signal booster, extending the reach of your cameras and reducing battery drain.
• Multi-Camera Sync: Easily manage up to 15 Arlo cameras from one hub.
• Works with Arlo Smart: Enables AI-powered features like person detection, package alerts, and activity zones (subscription required).

So… Can It Talk to Other Brands?

Here’s the short answer: No, the Arlo Hub does not support non-Arlo cameras. It’s designed specifically to work with Arlo-branded devices—cameras, doorbells, and sensors. The communication protocol, firmware, and app integration are all tightly controlled by Arlo.

Think of it like Apple’s AirPods. They work best with iPhones, and while you *can* pair them with Android, you lose key features like seamless pairing, battery level pop-ups, and spatial audio. Similarly, the Arlo Hub is optimized for Arlo devices. Plug in a Ring or Nest camera, and it simply won’t connect—no matter how hard you try.

Why Arlo Limits Compatibility (And Why That’s Actually Smart)

Closed Ecosystem: A Double-Edged Sword

Arlo, like many smart home brands, operates on a closed ecosystem. This means they design their hardware, software, and communication protocols to work exclusively with their own products. On one hand, this can feel limiting. But on the other, it brings real benefits:

• Reliability: Arlo can guarantee performance because they control every part of the system.
• Security: Fewer entry points for hackers since only Arlo devices can communicate with the hub.
• Faster Updates: Firmware and app updates are tested and rolled out quickly without worrying about third-party compatibility issues.
• Customer Support: If something goes wrong, Arlo knows exactly what’s connected and how it should work.

I remember setting up a friend’s mixed-brand system once—a Ring doorbell, two Wyze cams, and an Arlo hub. We spent *three hours* troubleshooting connectivity issues, app crashes, and delayed alerts. When we finally gave up and replaced the non-Arlo cams with Arlo ones, the whole system worked smoothly in 20 minutes. Lesson learned: consistency matters.

The Trade-Off: Flexibility vs. Control

Some brands, like Hubitat or Home Assistant, embrace open ecosystems. They let you mix and match devices from different brands using universal standards like Zigbee or Z-Wave. But Arlo chooses control over flexibility.

This decision isn’t just about profit—it’s about user experience. Imagine if your car only worked with tires from one brand, but those tires were guaranteed to last longer, grip better, and never blow out unexpectedly. You might miss the freedom to shop around, but you’d appreciate the peace of mind.

What About Universal Hubs?

You might wonder, “Can I use a universal hub instead?” Well, yes—but not with Arlo. Devices like the SmartThings Hub or Aqara Hub support Zigbee and Z-Wave devices from multiple brands. However, Arlo cameras don’t support Zigbee or Z-Wave. They use their own proprietary protocol (Arlo Secure Link), which isn’t compatible with these open standards.

So if you’re committed to using a universal hub, you’ll need to stick with cameras that support Zigbee, Z-Wave, or Wi-Fi—and give up the Arlo Hub’s benefits.

Workarounds: Can You *Kind Of* Use Other Cameras With Arlo?

Using Multiple Hubs (The “Franken-Home” Approach)

If you already own non-Arlo cameras and want to add Arlo devices, you can run multiple hubs on the same network. For example:

• Use the Ring Alarm Hub for your Ring doorbell and indoor cam.
• Use the Arlo SmartHub for your Arlo outdoor cameras.
• Use the Google Nest Hub (if applicable) for Nest devices.

This setup works, but it has downsides:

• App Fatigue: You’ll need to open multiple apps to check your cameras.
• No Unified Alerts: A motion alert from your Arlo cam won’t show up in the Ring app, and vice versa.
• Network Load: Multiple hubs mean more devices on your Wi-Fi, which can slow things down.

Pro Tip: If you go this route, assign each hub to a different Wi-Fi band (2.4 GHz vs. 5 GHz) to reduce interference. Also, use your router’s Quality of Service (QoS) settings to prioritize camera traffic.

Third-Party Integrations: IFTTT & Home Assistant

Here’s where things get interesting. While the Arlo Hub won’t connect to non-Arlo cameras, you can use IFTTT (If This Then That) or Home Assistant to link different systems together.

For example:

• When your Ring camera detects motion, trigger a notification in the Arlo app (via IFTTT).
• Use Home Assistant to create a unified dashboard showing feeds from Arlo, Ring, and Eufy cameras.
• Set up automations: “If Arlo detects a person at night, turn on the smart lights and send a snapshot to my phone.”

This isn’t a true integration—you’re not connecting the cameras to the hub—but it *can* create a more seamless experience. The catch? It requires technical know-how, and some features (like local storage or AI detection) may not sync across brands.

Cloud-to-Cloud Sync: The Future?

Some brands now offer cloud-to-cloud integrations. For instance, Google Nest and Arlo both support IFTTT and Google Assistant, so you can say, “Hey Google, show me the front porch camera” and get a feed from either brand. But again, this doesn’t mean the cameras are connected to the same hub—it’s just voice and app-level compatibility.

Still, it’s a step toward a more unified smart home. As more brands adopt universal standards like Matter, we may see better cross-compatibility in the future.

Comparing Arlo Hub to Universal Alternatives: What You Gain (and Lose)

Arlo Hub: The Pros

• Reliable Connection: Dedicated wireless link means fewer dropouts.
• Longer Battery Life: Cameras last months (not weeks) on a single charge.
• Local Storage: Avoid monthly fees by recording to a microSD card.
• Faster Alerts: Notifications arrive in seconds, not minutes.
• Arlo Smart AI: Advanced detection (person, package, animal) with a subscription.

Universal Hubs (e.g., SmartThings, Hubitat): The Pros

• Brand Flexibility: Mix and match cameras, sensors, lights, and more.
• Zigbee/Z-Wave Support: Low-power, long-range wireless communication.
• Home Automation: Create complex routines (e.g., “If motion detected, lock doors and turn on lights”).
• Open Ecosystem: Community-driven plugins and integrations.

Data Table: Arlo Hub vs. Universal Hubs

Feature	Arlo SmartHub	SmartThings Hub	Hubitat Elevation
Supported Brands	Arlo only	Ring, Eufy, Nest, Philips Hue, etc.	Zigbee/Z-Wave devices (many brands)
Communication Protocol	Arlo Secure Link (proprietary)	Wi-Fi, Zigbee, Z-Wave, Matter	Zigbee, Z-Wave, Wi-Fi
Local Storage	Yes (microSD)	No (cloud or SD on cameras)	Yes (optional plugins)
AI Detection	Yes (Arlo Smart, paid)	Yes (via camera app)	Yes (via integrations)
Ease of Setup	Very easy (Arlo app)	Easy (SmartThings app)	Moderate (requires setup)
Price Range	$80–$100	$70–$100	$130–$150
Best For	Arlo-only users who want reliability	Mixed-brand homes	Tech-savvy users who love automation

Which One Should You Choose?

If you’re all-in on Arlo—or plan to be—the Arlo Hub is a no-brainer. It’s simple, secure, and delivers the best performance for Arlo cameras. But if you want to mix brands or prioritize automation over simplicity, a universal hub might be worth the extra effort.

Real-World Tips: How to Build a Smarter, Mixed-Brand Security System

1. Start with Your Must-Have Devices

Before buying anything, ask: Which cameras or sensors do I absolutely need? For example:

• Do you need a doorbell cam with two-way talk? (Ring or Google Nest might be better here.)
• Do you want long battery life? (Arlo excels here.)
• Do you prefer no monthly fees? (Look for local storage options.)

Once you know your priorities, choose hubs and cameras accordingly. Don’t force everything into one system just for the sake of unity.

2. Use a Unified Dashboard (Like Home Assistant)

If you’re tech-inclined, Home Assistant is a game-changer. It lets you:

• View feeds from Arlo, Ring, Eufy, and more in one app.
• Create custom alerts and automations.
• Use voice commands via Google Assistant or Alexa.

It takes time to set up, but once it’s running, it feels like magic. I use it to monitor my front yard (Arlo), garage (Eufy), and driveway (Ring)—all from a single dashboard.

3. Leverage IFTTT for Simple Automations

Don’t want to dive into Home Assistant? Try IFTTT. It’s free and easy to use. Examples:

• “If Arlo detects motion, turn on the porch light.”
• “If Ring doorbell rings, send a photo to my email.”
• “When I leave home, arm all cameras.”

4. Keep Firmware Updated

No matter what brand you use, outdated firmware is a security risk. Set a reminder to check for updates every 3–6 months. Most apps will notify you, but it’s easy to ignore them.

5. Test Your Network

Multiple cameras = more data. Use a tool like Speedtest.net or your router’s built-in analytics to check if your network can handle the load. If speeds drop when cameras are active, consider upgrading your internet plan or adding a Wi-Fi extender.

Final Thoughts: Should You Stick With Arlo or Go Universal?

So, do other cameras work with Arlo Hub? The honest answer is no. The Arlo Hub is a powerful, reliable device—but it’s built for Arlo cameras and Arlo cameras only. If you try to connect a Ring, Nest, or Eufy cam, it simply won’t work. And that’s okay.

What matters most is your needs. If you value:

• Simplicity: Stick with Arlo. One app, one hub, one ecosystem.
• Long battery life and local storage: Arlo is still one of the best.
• Brand flexibility and automation: Go for a universal hub like SmartThings or Home Assistant.

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution. The key is to plan ahead, understand the trade-offs, and build a system that works for your home—not just what’s trending online.

And remember: smart home tech should make life easier, not more complicated. Whether you’re all-in on Arlo or mixing brands with IFTTT and Home Assistant, the goal is the same: peace of mind, convenience, and security. So take your time, test what works, and don’t be afraid to switch things up. After all, your home, your rules.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do other cameras work with Arlo Hub?

The Arlo Hub is specifically designed to integrate with Arlo-branded cameras and accessories, so third-party cameras generally won’t work due to proprietary software and security protocols. For full functionality, it’s best to stick with Arlo products.

Can I use non-Arlo cameras with the Arlo Hub for home security?

Unfortunately, the Arlo Hub does not support non-Arlo cameras, as it relies on Arlo’s closed ecosystem for video processing, alerts, and cloud storage. You’ll need to use Arlo-compatible cameras to leverage the hub’s features.

Are there any third-party cameras compatible with the Arlo Hub?

No, the Arlo Hub only works with Arlo-certified cameras like Arlo Pro, Ultra, and Essential models. While some smart home devices may share Wi-Fi, the hub won’t recognize or sync with non-Arlo camera feeds.

Why won’t other brands of cameras connect to my Arlo Hub?

The Arlo Hub uses exclusive firmware and encryption to pair only with Arlo devices, ensuring secure data transmission. This means even if a third-party camera is Wi-Fi enabled, it can’t communicate with the hub’s software.

Can I mix Arlo and non-Arlo cameras in the same security setup?

While you can use non-Arlo cameras alongside an Arlo Hub, they’ll operate as separate systems—each requiring their own app, hub, or storage. True integration (e.g., shared alerts or unified feeds) is only possible with Arlo cameras.

What happens if I try to force a non-Arlo camera into the Arlo Hub?

Attempting to pair third-party cameras with the Arlo Hub will result in a failed connection, as the hub won’t recognize non-Arlo hardware. Always verify camera compatibility before purchasing to avoid setup issues.