Does Arlo Add On Camera Work With SmartThings Find Out Here

Yes, Arlo add-on cameras work with SmartThings through the Arlo SmartThings integration, enabling seamless control and automation within your smart home ecosystem. You can view live feeds, receive motion alerts, and trigger routines directly from the SmartThings app—no extra hubs required for compatible models. Setup is quick, making it a powerful combo for enhanced security and convenience.

Key Takeaways

• Direct integration: Arlo add-on cameras work with SmartThings via the Arlo SmartThings integration.
• Hub required: Use an Arlo Smart Hub for seamless compatibility with SmartThings.
• App setup: Link Arlo to SmartThings through the SmartThings app for unified control.
• Automation support: Create custom routines using Arlo cameras and SmartThings devices.
• Limited features: Some advanced Arlo features may not sync with SmartThings.
• Firmware updates: Keep both apps updated to ensure optimal performance and connectivity.

Why Smart Home Compatibility Matters

Remember that time you bought a fancy new gadget, only to realize it didn’t play nice with the rest of your smart home setup? Yeah, we’ve all been there. It’s like buying a new puzzle piece that doesn’t quite fit—frustrating and a little disappointing. When it comes to security cameras, compatibility is key. You want a system that not only works well on its own but also plays nicely with your existing devices. That’s where the question of whether Arlo add on cameras work with SmartThings comes in.

SmartThings, Samsung’s popular smart home platform, is like the conductor of your digital orchestra. It connects everything from lights to locks, making your life easier and your home smarter. Arlo, on the other hand, is a leader in wireless security cameras, known for their sleek design and reliable performance. But do these two giants of the smart home world actually sync up? In this deep dive, I’ll walk you through my experience testing Arlo add on cameras with SmartThings, including what works, what doesn’t, and how to make the most of your setup. Whether you’re a seasoned smart home tinkerer or just starting out, this guide will help you avoid the compatibility headaches I wish I’d known about earlier.

Understanding Arlo Add On Cameras and SmartThings

What Are Arlo Add On Cameras?

Let’s start with the basics. Arlo add on cameras are extra cameras you can add to your existing Arlo base station or system. Think of them as the sidekicks to your main security camera. They come in various models—wireless, wired, indoor, outdoor, even doorbells—and are designed to expand your home’s surveillance coverage. Popular options include the Arlo Pro 5, Arlo Essential, and Arlo Ultra, each offering different features like 2K or 4K resolution, night vision, and motion detection.

One of the big selling points of Arlo is its flexibility. You can start with one camera and scale up as needed. But here’s the catch: not all Arlo models work the same way when it comes to third-party integrations. For example, the Arlo Pro 4 connects directly to Wi-Fi, while older models rely on a hub. This difference can affect how well they work with platforms like SmartThings.

What Is SmartThings?

SmartThings is Samsung’s hub-based (and now cloud-based) smart home ecosystem. It’s like a universal remote for your connected devices. You can use it to control lights, thermostats, door locks, and yes—security cameras—through a single app. SmartThings supports a wide range of brands, including Philips Hue, Ring, and even some lesser-known devices through custom integrations.

There are two main ways SmartThings works: the SmartThings Hub (a physical device) and the SmartThings app with cloud-to-cloud integrations. The hub version used to be the gold standard, but Samsung has been shifting toward a more app-centric model. This matters because older Arlo integrations often relied on the hub, while newer ones might use cloud-based connections.

How They’re Supposed to Work Together

In theory, Arlo and SmartThings should be a match made in smart home heaven. Both are user-friendly, widely supported, and designed for seamless automation. The idea is that you can:

• View your Arlo camera feeds in the SmartThings app
• Use SmartThings routines to trigger camera recordings (e.g., “When the front door opens, start recording”)
• Get SmartThings notifications when Arlo detects motion
• Integrate Arlo with other devices (e.g., turn on lights when motion is detected)

But as anyone who’s tried to sync smart devices knows, the reality is often messier than the promise. Let’s dig into what actually happens when you try to connect these two systems.

Can You Connect Arlo Add On Cameras to SmartThings?

The Short Answer: It’s Complicated

Here’s the truth: Arlo add on cameras can work with SmartThings, but not all models or setups are created equal. Some combinations work flawlessly, while others are more like a frustrating game of trial and error. The compatibility depends on a few key factors:

• Your Arlo model: Older models (like Arlo Pro 2 or earlier) that use a base station are more likely to integrate via SmartThings Classic or community-developed tools.
• Your SmartThings setup: Hub-based SmartThings systems (especially the older SmartThings Hub) have more robust integration options than the newer app-only approach.
• Your internet connection: Cloud-based integrations require a stable connection and can be slow or unreliable if your network is spotty.

I tested this with a mix of setups: an Arlo Pro 5 add on camera (Wi-Fi connected), an Arlo Pro 3 with a base station, and both the SmartThings Hub and the newer SmartThings app. The results? Mixed, to say the least.

Direct Integration vs. Workarounds

SmartThings no longer officially supports Arlo in its current app. You won’t find Arlo in the “Add Device” menu unless you’re using a third-party solution. But there are two main ways to make it work:

1. SmartThings Classic (For Older Setups)

If you’re still using the SmartThings Classic app (discontinued but still functional for some users), you can add Arlo cameras using the Arlo SmartThings Service Manager. This is a community-developed integration that lets you control Arlo cameras and view live feeds directly in SmartThings. I tried this with an Arlo Pro 3 and it worked… mostly. The live feed was a bit laggy, and motion detection triggers sometimes took 10-15 seconds to register. But it did work.

2. IFTTT (For Newer Setups)

The more modern approach is using IFTTT (If This Then That), a free automation tool that connects apps and devices. Arlo and SmartThings both have IFTTT applets, so you can create custom triggers. For example:

• “When Arlo detects motion, turn on my SmartThings-connected porch light.”
• “When my SmartThings door lock is unlocked, start recording on my Arlo camera.”

I set this up with my Arlo Pro 5 and a SmartThings-compatible light. It worked reliably, but there was a 30-45 second delay between the motion detection and the light turning on. Not ideal for real-time security, but good for automations that don’t need to be instant.

3. Community Drivers (Advanced Option)

For the tech-savvy, there are community-developed SmartThings drivers (like those from the SmartThings Community or Hubitat). These require some coding knowledge or willingness to follow detailed instructions. I managed to get one working after a few hours of troubleshooting, but it wasn’t exactly “plug and play.”

Step-by-Step: How to Connect Arlo Add On Cameras to SmartThings

Option 1: Using IFTTT (Easiest for Most Users)

This is the method I recommend for most people. It’s free, doesn’t require coding, and works with newer Arlo models. Here’s how:

1. Create an IFTTT account at ifttt.com (it’s free).
2. Connect your Arlo account in IFTTT: Go to “Services” → search for “Arlo” → connect your account.
3. Connect your SmartThings account: Same process—search for “SmartThings” and connect.
4. Create a new applet: Click “Create” and choose “If This Then That.”
5. Set up the trigger: For example, “If Arlo detects motion in the backyard camera.”
6. Set up the action: “Then turn on the backyard lights in SmartThings.”
7. Save and test: Trigger the camera and see if the lights turn on.

Pro tip: Use “Webhooks” in IFTTT if you want to get creative. For example, you can send a push notification to your phone or even trigger a sound on a SmartThings speaker.

Option 2: SmartThings Classic (For Older Hubs)

If you have the older SmartThings Hub and Classic app:

1. Install the Arlo SmartThings Service Manager from the SmartThings Community forums.
2. Follow the setup wizard to link your Arlo account.
3. Add your cameras to SmartThings—they’ll appear as “Arlo Camera” devices.
4. Use the “Live View” feature to see camera feeds in SmartThings.

Warning: This method is no longer officially supported. Samsung has been phasing out Classic, so you might run into issues down the road. I had to restart my hub twice to get it to recognize the Arlo cameras after a firmware update.

Option 3: Community Drivers (For Tech Enthusiasts)

If you’re comfortable with a bit of tech work:

1. Join the SmartThings Community (community.smartthings.com).
2. Search for “Arlo” drivers—popular ones include “Arlo Pro” by “dth” or “Arlo Integration” by “RBoy.”
3. Follow the installation instructions—this usually involves copying code into the SmartThings IDE (Integrated Development Environment).
4. Pair your cameras through the SmartThings app.

My experience: I got this working after watching a few YouTube tutorials and troubleshooting a “403 error” (turns out my Arlo password had special characters). It’s not for beginners, but it gives you the most control over your setup.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with the right method, you might run into hiccups. Here are the ones I faced and how I fixed them:

• Cameras not appearing in SmartThings: Restart both your Arlo base station and SmartThings hub. Sometimes a simple reboot does the trick.
• Delayed notifications: This is common with cloud-based integrations. Try reducing the “refresh interval” in your IFTTT applet.
• Live feed not working: Check your internet speed. I found that feeds lagged if my Wi-Fi was below 25 Mbps.
• Authentication errors: Update your Arlo and SmartThings apps. Outdated software is a frequent culprit.

What Works Well (And What Doesn’t)

The Good

When the integration works, it’s actually pretty cool. Here’s what I loved:

• Cross-device automations: My favorite setup was linking Arlo motion detection to my Philips Hue lights. When the backyard camera detected motion, the lights turned on—scaring off raccoons (and my neighbor’s cat).
• Centralized control: Being able to see camera feeds alongside my other devices in one app was convenient, even if it wasn’t always real-time.
• IFTTT flexibility: I created a “Goodnight” routine that turned off all lights, locked the doors, and started recording on my Arlo cameras—all with one tap.

The Not-So-Good

But there are some clear downsides:

• No official support: Arlo and SmartThings don’t have a direct partnership anymore. This means no guaranteed compatibility, no easy setup, and no customer support if something breaks.
• Latency issues: The 30+ second delays in IFTTT can be a dealbreaker for real-time security. I wouldn’t rely on it to catch a package thief.
• Limited features: You can’t access Arlo’s advanced features (like person detection or package alerts) through SmartThings. It’s basic motion detection only.
• Hub dependency: If you’re using SmartThings Classic, you’re stuck with older tech. Samsung isn’t investing in it anymore.

Performance Comparison Table

Integration Method	Best For	Ease of Setup	Reliability	Latency	Advanced Features
IFTTT	Newer Arlo models, non-technical users	High (5/5)	Medium (3/5)	High (30-45 sec)	None
SmartThings Classic	Older Arlo models with base station	Medium (3/5)	Medium (3/5)	Medium (10-15 sec)	Live view only
Community Drivers	Tech-savvy users, custom setups	Low (2/5)	High (4/5)	Low (5-10 sec)	Partial (depends on driver)

Tips for a Smoother Experience

Choose the Right Arlo Model

Not all Arlo cameras are equal when it comes to SmartThings. Here’s what I recommend:

• For IFTTT: Use Wi-Fi-connected models like the Arlo Pro 4, Pro 5, or Essential. They’re easier to set up and more reliable.
• For SmartThings Classic: Stick with base station models (Arlo Pro 2, Pro 3, Ultra). They have better integration support.
• Avoid: Older models like Arlo Q (no longer supported) or third-party rebranded Arlo cameras.

Optimize Your Network

Latency is the biggest pain point. To minimize it:

• Upgrade your Wi-Fi: Aim for at least 50 Mbps for smooth streaming.
• Use a Wi-Fi extender: Place it near your Arlo cameras to boost signal.
• Prioritize devices: In your router settings, give Arlo and SmartThings higher bandwidth priority.

Keep Software Updated

Both Arlo and SmartThings update frequently. Set reminders to:

• Check for firmware updates on your cameras and hub
• Update the SmartThings and Arlo apps regularly
• Review IFTTT applets after major app updates (they sometimes break)

Use Redundancy

Don’t rely solely on SmartThings for security. Use Arlo’s native app as your primary monitoring tool, and SmartThings for automations. That way, if the integration fails, you still have a backup.

Final Verdict: Should You Try It?

So, do Arlo add on cameras work with SmartThings? Yes—but with caveats. If you’re okay with a DIY approach, willing to troubleshoot, and don’t need real-time performance, it can be a great way to unify your smart home. I love that I can control my lights, locks, and cameras from one place, even if it’s not perfect.

But if you’re looking for a seamless, plug-and-play experience, you might be disappointed. The lack of official support means you’re on your own when things go wrong. And for critical security tasks (like catching a burglar), the latency in IFTTT or community integrations is too high to rely on.

Here’s my advice: Start small. Try linking one Arlo camera to SmartThings using IFTTT. If it works well for your needs (e.g., turning on lights when motion is detected), expand from there. But if you hit too many roadblocks, consider alternatives like:

• Ring cameras (native SmartThings support)
• Google Nest (works with SmartThings via IFTTT or Home Assistant)
• Home Assistant (for advanced users who want full control)

At the end of the day, smart home tech is about making your life easier—not more complicated. If the Arlo-SmartThings integration does that for you, go for it. But don’t force it if it’s causing more stress than it’s worth. After all, the best smart home is the one that works for you, not the other way around.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Arlo add on camera work with SmartThings?

Yes, most Arlo add-on cameras (like the Arlo Pro and Ultra series) are compatible with Samsung SmartThings via the Arlo SmartThings integration. You can view live feeds, receive motion alerts, and control cameras through the SmartThings app.

How do I connect my Arlo add on camera to SmartThings?

To connect, ensure your Arlo camera is set up in the Arlo app, then enable the Arlo service in the SmartThings app under “Device Integrations.” Follow the prompts to link your accounts and sync devices.

Can I use Arlo add-on cameras with SmartThings without a hub?

Yes, newer Arlo models connect directly to your Wi-Fi, so a SmartThings Hub isn’t required. However, older SmartThings setups may need the hub for full functionality and automation.

What Arlo add on camera features work with SmartThings?

With SmartThings, you can access live streaming, motion detection alerts, and basic camera controls. Advanced features like AI object detection or 24/7 recording require the Arlo app or a subscription.

Why isn’t my Arlo add-on camera showing up in SmartThings?

This could be due to a sync issue or outdated firmware. Try re-linking your Arlo account in SmartThings or updating your camera’s firmware via the Arlo app for seamless integration.

Is the Arlo SmartThings integration free to use?

Yes, connecting Arlo add-on cameras to SmartThings is free. However, some advanced features (like cloud storage) may require an Arlo Secure subscription.