Do Arlo Cameras Work With Vivint A Complete Guide

Arlo cameras do not natively integrate with Vivint systems, as they operate on separate platforms with incompatible protocols. However, you can use both systems side-by-side by managing them through their respective apps, though automation and unified control will be limited—ideal for users prioritizing specific features from each brand.

Key Takeaways

• No native integration: Arlo cameras don’t directly connect to Vivint systems.
• Use third-party apps: IFTTT or Home Assistant can bridge Arlo and Vivint.
• Manual setup required: Pairing demands technical effort and workarounds.
• Limited feature sync: Notifications and live view may work, but automation won’t.
• Vivint ecosystem preferred: For seamless use, choose Vivint-branded cameras.

Do Arlo Cameras Work With Vivint? Let’s Break It Down

Imagine this: You’ve got a Vivint smart home system humming along perfectly—your door locks, lights, and thermostat all talk to each other. Then you think, “Hey, I’d love to add some Arlo cameras for extra security, especially for outdoor monitoring.” But then you pause. Do Arlo cameras work with Vivint? It’s a question I’ve heard countless times from homeowners, renters, and tech enthusiasts alike. And it’s a fair one. Mixing brands in your smart home setup can feel like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole.

The short answer? Not directly. Arlo and Vivint are two different ecosystems, each with its own app, hub, and communication protocols. But here’s the good news: with a little creativity and the right tools, you can make them coexist—just not in the way you might expect. In this guide, we’ll dive deep into how Arlo and Vivint interact, what integration options exist (if any), and what you should consider before buying. Whether you’re a DIY smart home tinkerer or just want a seamless security setup, this guide will help you make an informed decision without the headache.

Understanding the Arlo and Vivint Ecosystems

Before we dive into compatibility, let’s get to know the players. Arlo is best known for its sleek, wireless security cameras—indoor, outdoor, doorbells, and even floodlight models. They’re designed for easy setup, battery-powered operation, and cloud-based storage. Arlo cameras connect to your home Wi-Fi (or a base station) and are managed through the Arlo app, which offers features like motion detection, AI-based person detection, and smart alerts.

On the other hand, Vivint is a full-service smart home platform. It’s not just about cameras—it includes smart locks, thermostats, garage door openers, and professional monitoring. Vivint systems rely on a central hub (the Vivint Smart Hub) that connects all devices and communicates with the Vivint app. Their cameras—like the Vivint Outdoor Camera Pro—are designed to work within this closed ecosystem, offering features like 24/7 professional monitoring, facial recognition, and seamless integration with other Vivint devices.

Key Differences in Design and Functionality

• Connectivity: Arlo cameras typically connect directly to your Wi-Fi or a base station. Vivint devices connect to the Vivint Smart Hub, which then links to your home network.
• Power: Most Arlo cameras are battery-powered, making them easy to install but requiring periodic charging. Vivint cameras are usually hardwired or plug-in, offering continuous power but needing outlets or wiring.
• App Control: Arlo uses its own app; Vivint uses its own app. There’s no built-in bridge between the two.
• Monitoring: Vivint offers optional 24/7 professional monitoring. Arlo offers self-monitoring with optional cloud storage plans.

So, while both brands aim to keep your home safe, they take different paths. Arlo is more about flexibility and DIY. Vivint is about integration and professional support. That’s why mixing them isn’t as simple as plugging in a new camera.

Direct Integration: Why Arlo and Vivint Don’t Play Together Out of the Box

Let’s be clear: Arlo cameras do not natively work with Vivint. There’s no official support for adding Arlo devices to the Vivint app, and you can’t control Arlo cameras through the Vivint Smart Hub. This isn’t just a software limitation—it’s a fundamental design difference.

Vivint uses a proprietary protocol called Z-Wave Plus (and sometimes Zigbee) for device communication. Arlo, on the other hand, relies on Wi-Fi and its own cloud-based system. The Vivint Smart Hub doesn’t speak “Arlo,” and Arlo doesn’t recognize the Vivint hub as a valid controller. It’s like trying to connect a PlayStation to an Xbox—same goal, different language.

What Vivint’s Smart Hub Can and Can’t Do

The Vivint Smart Hub is powerful, but it’s not a universal translator. It supports:

• Z-Wave and Zigbee devices (like door locks, sensors, and lights)
• Vivint-branded cameras and doorbells
• Third-party devices that are officially certified by Vivint (e.g., certain Yale locks or Kwikset smart locks)

But Arlo cameras? Not on the list. Even if you plug an Arlo base station into your network, the Vivint hub won’t detect it as a compatible device. You’ll still need the Arlo app to view, manage, or receive alerts from your Arlo cameras.

Real-World Example: The Frustrated Homeowner

Take Sarah, a homeowner in Colorado. She loved her Vivint system but wanted a wireless camera for her backyard. She bought an Arlo Pro 4, set it up in minutes, and loved the image quality. But when she tried to add it to her Vivint app? Nothing. No option. No integration. She ended up with two separate apps—one for lights and locks, another for the backyard camera. “It’s like having two remotes for one TV,” she told me. “I just wanted one place to check everything.”

This is the reality for most users: you can own both systems, but they won’t talk to each other unless you use workarounds.

Workarounds: How to Make Arlo and Vivint Coexist (Without Losing Your Mind)

So, no native integration. But that doesn’t mean you’re out of luck. With a few smart strategies, you can create a unified smart home experience—even with Arlo and Vivint running side by side.

Option 1: Use Both Apps (The Simple, Honest Approach)

The easiest solution? Just use both apps. Yes, it’s not seamless, but it works. Here’s how to make it bearable:

• Pin both apps to your home screen with clear labels (e.g., “Vivint – Locks & Lights,” “Arlo – Backyard Cam”).
• Set up smart alerts in each app. For example, have Arlo send a notification when motion is detected at night, and Vivint alert you if a door is left open.
• Use a smart speaker (like Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa) to check both. Say, “Show me the backyard camera,” and Alexa can pull up Arlo. Say, “Show me the front door,” and it can show Vivint.

Tip: If you use an iPad or tablet as a wall-mounted control panel, you can run both apps side by side. It’s not perfect, but it’s functional.

Option 2: Leverage IFTTT (If This, Then That) for Basic Automation

IFTTT is a free automation tool that connects different apps and devices. While it won’t let you view Arlo footage in the Vivint app, it can help sync alerts and actions.

For example:

• IF Arlo detects motion at night, THEN turn on Vivint-connected porch lights.
• IF Vivint’s door sensor opens, THEN send a notification to your phone via Arlo’s alert system.

How to set it up:

1. Create an IFTTT account and connect your Arlo and Vivint apps (both are supported).
2. Choose a trigger (e.g., “motion detected on Arlo Camera 1”).
3. Select an action (e.g., “turn on Vivint Smart Plug”).
4. Test it with a manual trigger.

Limitation: IFTTT can’t pull live video or control camera settings—only trigger actions. But for basic automation, it’s a solid bridge.

Option 3: Use a Universal Smart Home Platform (Home Assistant or Hubitat)

If you’re tech-savvy and want true integration, consider a third-party platform like Home Assistant or Hubitat Elevation. These systems act as a central brain for your smart home and can pull data from multiple ecosystems.

With Home Assistant, you can:

• View Arlo camera feeds and Vivint device statuses on a single dashboard.
• Create automations that span both systems (e.g., “When Arlo detects a person, send a snapshot to Vivint’s alert history”).
• Use voice commands to control both via Google Assistant or Alexa.

Downsides? Setup is complex. You’ll need a Raspberry Pi or a dedicated computer, and some features (like live video streaming) may require extra configuration. But for power users, it’s the closest thing to true integration.

Pros and Cons of Using Arlo Cameras in a Vivint Setup

Now that we’ve covered the “how,” let’s talk about the “should you.” Here’s a balanced look at the benefits and drawbacks of mixing Arlo with Vivint.

Pros: Why You Might Want to Mix the Two

• Flexibility: Arlo’s wireless design means you can place cameras where Vivint’s wired models can’t go—like on a shed, tree, or detached garage.
• Cost: Arlo cameras are often cheaper than Vivint’s premium models. You can add outdoor coverage without breaking the bank.
• Ease of Installation: No wiring, no drilling. Just mount and sync to Wi-Fi. Great for renters or quick setups.
• Advanced Features: Some Arlo models (like the Pro 5) offer color night vision, 2K resolution, and AI-based object detection—features that rival or exceed Vivint’s offerings.

Example: Mark, a homeowner in Texas, added an Arlo Floodlight Camera to his Vivint system. “The Vivint camera covers my front door, but the Arlo floodlight lights up my entire driveway at night. I love the flexibility.”

Cons: The Trade-Offs You Should Know

• No Unified App: You’ll need two apps. If you hate juggling multiple apps, this is a dealbreaker.
• Battery Maintenance: Arlo cameras need charging every few months. Vivint’s hardwired models don’t.
• Limited Automation: Without IFTTT or Home Assistant, you can’t create deep automations between the two systems.
• Storage and Monitoring: Vivint offers professional monitoring with video verification. Arlo requires a subscription for cloud storage, and monitoring is self-managed.
• No Centralized Alerts: If both systems detect motion at the same time, you’ll get two separate notifications. It can feel overwhelming.

Tip: If you’re using both, consider designating one brand for primary monitoring (e.g., Vivint for doors and entry points) and Arlo for secondary coverage (e.g., backyard, driveway). This reduces alert fatigue.

Data Table: Arlo vs. Vivint Cameras at a Glance

Feature	Arlo (e.g., Pro 4, Ultra 2)	Vivint (e.g., Outdoor Camera Pro)
Connection	Wi-Fi or Base Station	Vivint Smart Hub (Z-Wave/Zigbee)
Power	Battery or Solar (most models)	Hardwired or Plug-in
Video Quality	1080p to 4K	1080p to 4K
Night Vision	Color or Black & White	Color with spotlight
AI Detection	Person, Vehicle, Animal	Person, Package, Face Recognition
App	Arlo App	Vivint App
Professional Monitoring	Self-monitoring only (with subscription)	Available with Vivint plan
Cloud Storage	Subscription required	Included with monitoring plan
Integration	IFTTT, Home Assistant, Alexa, Google	IFTTT, Alexa, Google, Vivint ecosystem

Final Thoughts: Should You Mix Arlo and Vivint?

So, do Arlo cameras work with Vivint? Not directly—but that doesn’t mean they can’t coexist. The answer depends on what you value most in your smart home.

If you prioritize convenience and a single app, stick with one ecosystem. Vivint offers a more unified experience, especially if you’re using professional monitoring. Arlo is better if you want wireless flexibility and don’t mind managing your own system.

But if you’re okay with a hybrid approach, mixing Arlo and Vivint can actually be a smart move. Use Vivint for critical areas (front door, garage) and Arlo for hard-to-wire spots (backyard, shed, driveway). With tools like IFTTT or Home Assistant, you can even automate actions between the two.

Remember: smart home tech isn’t about perfection—it’s about what works for you. Maybe you love the sleek design of Arlo cameras but trust Vivint’s monitoring. Or maybe you want Vivint’s central hub but need Arlo’s battery-powered convenience. There’s no right or wrong answer—just your unique setup.

And here’s a final tip: start small. Buy one Arlo camera, set it up, and see how it feels alongside your Vivint system. Can you live with two apps? Are the alerts manageable? Does the added coverage make you feel safer? If yes, great! If not, you haven’t invested too much.

At the end of the day, your home’s security is personal. Whether you go all-in on Vivint, stick with Arlo, or mix the two, what matters most is that you feel protected—and in control.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Arlo cameras work with Vivint systems?

Arlo cameras are not natively compatible with Vivint systems, as they operate on different platforms and communication protocols. However, you can view Arlo feeds on a Vivint panel using third-party integrations like IFTTT or screen mirroring.

Can I integrate Arlo with Vivint for a unified smart home setup?

While direct integration isn’t supported, you can use workarounds like IFTTT applets or a shared smart hub to sync Arlo cameras with Vivint. This allows limited automation but won’t enable full control via Vivint’s native app.

Why doesn’t Vivint support Arlo cameras directly?

Vivint and Arlo use proprietary ecosystems with unique software and hardware requirements. Vivint prioritizes its own branded devices to maintain seamless functionality and user experience within its closed-loop system.

Are there any Arlo models compatible with Vivint?

No Arlo models, including Arlo Pro or Ultra, are officially compatible with Vivint. Even if physically connected, features like live alerts or two-way audio won’t function without native platform support.

How can I connect Arlo to my Vivint system using IFTTT?

Create an IFTTT applet linking Arlo triggers (e.g., motion detection) to Vivint actions (e.g., turning on lights). Note this won’t sync video feeds directly but enables basic cross-device automation.

Is it worth using Arlo cameras with a Vivint system?

If you already own Arlo cameras, workarounds can bridge the gap for partial functionality. For full compatibility, consider switching to Vivint’s cameras or using a universal hub like Google Home for centralized control.