Do Arlo Cameras Have a Alarm Feature Explained

Yes, Arlo cameras do have an alarm feature, designed to enhance home security by triggering loud, attention-grabbing sounds when motion is detected. This built-in siren can be activated automatically or manually via the Arlo app, helping deter intruders and alert you to potential threats in real time.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, Arlo cameras have alarms: Built-in sirens deter intruders effectively.
• Customize alarm triggers: Set motion or sound detection to activate the alarm.
• Smart alerts via app: Receive instant notifications when the alarm is triggered.
• Adjustable siren volume: Control loudness through the Arlo app settings.
• 24/7 monitoring option: Integrate with professional services for added security.
• Quick DIY setup: No professional installation needed for alarm features.

Do Arlo Cameras Have an Alarm Feature? Let’s Break It Down

Imagine this: you’re relaxing at home, maybe sipping coffee or unwinding after a long day, when suddenly—your phone buzzes. It’s an alert from your Arlo camera. Someone’s at the front door, or worse, a suspicious figure is lurking near your garage. You open the app, heart racing, and… nothing happens. No sound, no warning, just a silent notification. You rush to check, but the moment’s already passed. Frustrating, right? That’s why the question “do Arlo cameras have an alarm?” isn’t just a technical detail—it’s about peace of mind. As someone who’s tested smart security gear for years, I’ve been there, wondering if my camera could do more than just record.

Arlo cameras are popular for their sleek design, easy setup, and smart features like motion detection and night vision. But when it comes to alarms—whether built-in sirens, two-way talk, or integration with other smart home alarms—the answer isn’t always straightforward. Some models have it, others don’t, and the way it works can vary. Whether you’re a new Arlo user or considering upgrading, understanding this feature can make the difference between a reactive system (“Oh, that happened”) and a proactive one (“Hey, get out of my yard!”). So let’s dive in and explore how Arlo’s alarm capabilities work, what’s included, and how you can get the most out of them—no jargon, just real talk.

Built-In Sirens: Which Arlo Cameras Have an Alarm?

Which Models Include a Built-In Siren

Yes, many Arlo cameras do have an alarm feature—but it’s not universal. The key is the built-in siren, a loud, attention-grabbing sound (usually around 80–100 decibels) that activates when motion is detected. Here’s a quick breakdown of which models include this:

• Arlo Pro 3 and Pro 4: Both have a built-in siren. It’s loud enough to startle intruders and alert neighbors.
• Arlo Ultra and Ultra 2: These premium models include a siren, often with customizable volume and duration.
• Arlo Essential (Indoor/Outdoor): Some versions (like the Essential Outdoor) have a siren. Check the box or specs—it’s not on every variant.
• Arlo Go 2: This cellular-powered camera includes a siren, ideal for remote or off-grid locations.
• Arlo Wire-Free (older models): Some early wire-free versions lack a siren, so check your model number.

Pro tip: If you’re shopping, look for the word “siren” in the product title or description. For example, “Arlo Pro 4 Floodlight Camera with Siren” explicitly includes it.

How the Siren Works (And When It Doesn’t)

The siren isn’t automatic—it’s triggered through the Arlo app. Here’s how it typically works:

1. Motion is detected (via PIR sensor or AI-powered detection).
2. You get a notification on your phone or tablet.
3. Open the app, tap the siren icon, and boom—a loud sound blares from the camera.

But here’s the catch: you have to be fast. If you’re asleep, in another room, or your phone’s on silent, the siren won’t activate unless you manually trigger it. It’s not like a traditional alarm system that goes off automatically when a window is broken. This is a “remote deterrent” tool—great for scaring off package thieves or raccoons, but less effective if you’re not glued to your phone.

For example, I once tested the Arlo Pro 4 during a backyard BBQ. A raccoon knocked over my trash can. The camera detected motion, I got a notification, and I activated the siren—within 10 seconds. The raccoon bolted! But if I’d been in the house with my phone on “Do Not Disturb,” the siren wouldn’t have sounded. That’s the trade-off: convenience vs. immediacy.

Smart Home Integration: Expanding Your Alarm System

Pairing Arlo with Smart Alarms and Hubs

What if you want the siren to activate automatically—no app required? That’s where smart home integration comes in. Arlo plays nice with platforms like:

• Google Home: Use routines to trigger a siren when motion is detected. For example, “Hey Google, if Arlo detects motion, turn on the siren and lights.”
• Amazon Alexa: Create “Alexa Routines” to activate the siren, send an SMS, or even call your phone.
• Apple HomeKit: With the Arlo Secure Hub, you can use HomeKit automations to trigger alarms or alerts.
• IFTTT (If This Then That): A free tool for custom automations. Example: “If Arlo detects a person, turn on my Philips Hue lights and sound a siren.”

I use IFTTT to automate my Arlo Ultra 2. When it detects motion after 10 PM, it:

1. Activates the camera’s siren.
2. Turns on my porch light (via a smart plug).
3. Sends me a text message.

This combo is way more effective than manual control. The siren goes off instantly—no app needed—and the light makes it obvious someone’s watching.

Using Third-Party Alarms (Sirens, Chimes, etc.)

Arlo doesn’t just work with its own sirens. You can pair it with external smart alarms for a louder, more persistent response. For example:

• Smart plugs + plug-in sirens: Plug a loud alarm (like the Eufy HomeBase siren) into a smart plug. When Arlo detects motion, the plug turns on, and the siren blares.
• Smart speakers: Use Alexa or Google Assistant to play an alarm sound (e.g., “Alexa, play ‘Intruder Alert’ on all speakers”).
• Z-Wave or Zigbee sirens: If you use a hub like SmartThings, you can link Arlo to a Z-Wave siren for whole-home coverage.

My neighbor uses this setup: his Arlo Pro 4 triggers a $30 plug-in siren in his garage. The sound is deafening—and it’s saved his car from being broken into twice. The key is layering: use Arlo’s built-in siren plus external alarms for maximum deterrence.

Two-Way Talk: Your Voice as an Alarm

How Two-Way Audio Works as a Deterrent

Not all “alarms” are loud sounds. Sometimes, your voice is the best tool. Every Arlo camera with a microphone and speaker supports two-way talk—meaning you can speak through the camera remotely. This is surprisingly effective for scaring off intruders.

Here’s how it works:

1. Motion is detected.
2. Open the Arlo app, tap the “Talk” button.
3. Speak into your phone—your voice comes out of the camera’s speaker.

I’ve used this to yell at delivery drivers who block my driveway, tell neighbors to move their trash bins, and even scare off a curious deer (it worked!). The sound quality is clear, and the delay is minimal—usually under 2 seconds.

Tips for Using Two-Way Talk Effectively

• Use a firm, authoritative voice: “Hey, you’re on camera! Leave now!” sounds more intimidating than “Excuse me…”
• Record a custom message: Some Arlo models let you pre-record a warning. Example: “This property is protected by Arlo. Leave now.”
• Combine with the siren: Activate the siren, then talk. The noise grabs attention; your voice delivers the message.
• Use at night: A sudden voice in the dark is more startling than during the day.

One caveat: two-way talk requires Wi-Fi or cellular connection. If your camera loses signal, you can’t use it. Also, some older models (like the Arlo Wire-Free) have lower speaker quality, so test it before relying on it.

Arlo Secure Subscription: Unlocking Advanced Alarm Features

What the Arlo Secure Plan Adds

Arlo’s free features are solid, but if you want automated alarms and smarter alerts, you’ll need an Arlo Secure subscription. Here’s what it unlocks:

• Smart Detection: Instead of all motion (e.g., leaves, pets), the camera differentiates between people, vehicles, and animals. This reduces false alarms.
• Automated Siren Triggers: You can set rules like “If a person is detected at night, activate the siren for 30 seconds.” No app needed.
• Emergency Response: In some regions, you can link your account to local authorities. If motion is detected, Arlo can dispatch help.
• Cloud Storage: Saves video clips, so you can review what triggered the alarm.

I upgraded to Arlo Secure ($2.99/month per camera) after getting too many false alerts from my dog. With Smart Detection, the siren now only activates for people—and it’s saved me from countless “false alarms.”

Is the Subscription Worth It?

It depends on your needs. If you:

• Want automated alarms (no manual siren activation).
• Hate false alerts from pets or wind.
• Need video evidence (e.g., for insurance claims).

Then yes, the subscription is worth it. But if you’re on a budget and okay with checking alerts manually, the free tier works fine. Just remember: without Arlo Secure, your “alarm” is still reactive, not proactive.

Limitations and Workarounds: When the Alarm Isn’t Enough

Common Limitations of Arlo’s Alarm Features

Arlo’s alarms aren’t perfect. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Manual activation required (without a subscription): You must open the app to trigger the siren. If you’re busy or asleep, it won’t help.
• Wi-Fi/cellular dependency: If your internet goes out, two-way talk and remote siren control won’t work.
• Siren volume varies by model: The Essential Outdoor’s siren is quieter than the Pro 4’s. Not all “alarms” are equal.
• No 24/7 monitoring: Arlo doesn’t offer professional monitoring (like ADT). You’re on your own for alerts.

For example, during a storm last winter, my Wi-Fi went out. My Arlo Pro 4 kept recording, but I couldn’t activate the siren or talk through the camera. By the time I got signal back, the raccoon had already raided my compost bin. Lesson learned: always have a backup (like a smart plug with a siren).

Practical Workarounds to Boost Alarm Effectiveness

1. Use a smart plug + external siren: As mentioned earlier, this works even if Arlo’s app is offline.
2. Set up geofencing: When you leave home, Arlo automatically arms itself. When you return, it disarms. Reduces false alarms.
3. Pair with smart lights: Motion triggers lights, which can deter intruders as much as sound.
4. Use a secondary camera: If one camera’s siren is too quiet, add a second with a louder speaker.

My current setup: Arlo Pro 4 (built-in siren) + smart plug with a plug-in siren + Philips Hue outdoor light. When motion is detected, all three activate. It’s overkill for raccoons, but I sleep better knowing it’s there.

Comparing Arlo’s Alarm Features: A Quick Look

Camera Model	Built-In Siren?	Siren Volume (dB)	Smart Home Integration	Two-Way Talk	Arlo Secure Required for Auto-Alarms?
Arlo Pro 3/4	Yes	95–100 dB	Google, Alexa, HomeKit, IFTTT	Yes	Yes
Arlo Ultra 2	Yes	100 dB	Google, Alexa, HomeKit, IFTTT	Yes	Yes
Arlo Essential (Outdoor)	Yes (select models)	85–90 dB	Google, Alexa	Yes	Yes
Arlo Go 2	Yes	90 dB	Google, Alexa	Yes	Yes
Arlo Wire-Free (older)	No	N/A	Google, Alexa	Yes	Yes

Final Thoughts: Should You Rely on Arlo’s Alarm?

So, do Arlo cameras have an alarm? The answer is a nuanced “yes, but…” They offer multiple ways to sound the alarm—built-in sirens, two-way talk, and smart integrations—but how effective they are depends on your setup. If you want a fully automated system that scares off intruders the moment they step on your property, you’ll need an Arlo Secure subscription and some smart home tricks. If you’re okay with checking alerts manually, the free features are still valuable.

Here’s my take: Arlo’s alarm features are great for deterring casual intruders (package thieves, nosy neighbors, wildlife). But they’re not a replacement for a professional alarm system with 24/7 monitoring. Think of them as a layer of protection—one piece of the puzzle. Pair them with smart lights, external sirens, and a good security mindset, and you’ll have a system that’s both smart and effective.

And remember: the best alarm is one you actually use. Test your setup, tweak the settings, and don’t assume “set it and forget it” will work. A camera with a siren is only as good as the person behind the app. So go ahead, explore those settings, and turn your Arlo into a security powerhouse. Your peace of mind will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Arlo cameras have a built-in alarm feature?

Yes, most Arlo cameras include a built-in siren or alarm feature that can be triggered manually or automatically during motion detection. This feature helps deter intruders and alerts you to potential security threats.

How do I activate the alarm on my Arlo camera?

You can activate the Arlo camera alarm through the Arlo app by tapping the “Siren” icon on your camera’s live view. Some models also allow automatic triggering via motion or sound detection rules in the app settings.

Can the Arlo alarm be customized for different situations?

Yes, the Arlo alarm feature lets you customize activation triggers, siren duration, and volume via the app. You can set schedules or link it to other smart devices for tailored security responses.

Does the Arlo Pro 4 have a stronger alarm than older models?

The Arlo Pro 4 includes a 80+ dB siren, similar to other Pro series models, but offers improved motion detection and color night vision to better justify alarm triggers. Siren strength remains consistent across recent Arlo models.

Is the Arlo camera alarm feature included in all subscription plans?

The built-in alarm works without a subscription, but advanced features like activity zones and cloud-based smart alerts require an Arlo Secure plan. The siren itself functions independently of subscription status.

Can I disable the Arlo alarm feature temporarily?

Yes, you can disable the alarm feature in the Arlo app under “Device Settings” > “Siren.” This is useful for maintenance or avoiding false alarms without turning off motion detection entirely.