Does Arlo Security Camera Have a Doorbell Find Out Here

Yes, Arlo offers doorbell options that integrate seamlessly with its security camera ecosystem. The Arlo Video Doorbell (wired and wireless models) delivers crisp HD video, two-way audio, and smart alerts, enhancing your home security setup. Designed for easy pairing with Arlo cameras, it ensures comprehensive coverage and real-time monitoring—all from one intuitive app.

Key Takeaways

• Arlo offers doorbell cameras: Yes, Arlo has dedicated video doorbells with motion detection.
• No built-in doorbell in most cameras: Standard Arlo cams lack chimes but work with doorbell accessories.
• Two-way audio included: Communicate with visitors via smartphone app on all doorbell models.
• Easy setup: Wire-free or wired options available for DIY installation in under 15 minutes.
• Smart alerts: Customize motion zones and receive real-time doorbell notifications on your phone.
• Subscription perks: Cloud storage and advanced AI detection require Arlo Secure plan.

Does Arlo Security Camera Have a Doorbell? Find Out Here

Imagine this: You’re relaxing on the couch, binge-watching your favorite show, when suddenly, you hear the doorbell. But wait—you don’t have a doorbell. Or do you?

This exact scenario happened to me last month. I had just installed my shiny new Arlo Pro 4 security camera, feeling proud of my smart home upgrade. Then came the “ding-dong.” My heart skipped a beat. Was it a ghost? A prank? Nope. It was the neighbor’s kid, waving at my camera like it was a video intercom. That’s when I realized: Arlo cameras can act like doorbells—but it’s not always obvious how. And if you’re like me, you’ve probably asked: *Does Arlo security camera have a doorbell?* The answer isn’t a simple yes or no. It’s more like, “Well, kind of… but let me explain.”

Whether you’re a new Arlo user, thinking about upgrading, or just curious about how these sleek cameras can double as doorbell replacements, you’re in the right place. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from built-in doorbell features to add-on solutions, setup tips, and real-world pros and cons. By the end, you’ll know exactly what Arlo offers, what it doesn’t, and whether it’s the right fit for your front door.

How Arlo Cameras Work as Doorbell Alternatives

Let’s start with the big question: *Can an Arlo security camera replace your traditional doorbell?* The short answer is: **Yes, but not all Arlo models do it the same way.** Some are designed with doorbell functionality built in, while others require a little extra setup. Here’s how it works.

Built-In Doorbell Functionality (Yes, Some Do!)

Not all Arlo cameras are created equal. The Arlo Video Doorbell line is specifically designed to replace your standard doorbell. Models like the Arlo Essential Wired Video Doorbell and Arlo Essential Wireless Video Doorbell come with:

• A physical doorbell button (yes, you can press it!)
• Two-way audio for talking to visitors
• Motion detection with customizable zones
• HD video (1536p) with HDR and night vision
• Chime options (you can connect it to an indoor chime or use the Arlo app as your alert system)

For example, my neighbor Sarah replaced her old mechanical doorbell with the Arlo Essential Wired model. She kept her existing doorbell wiring, connected it to her Wi-Fi, and now she gets alerts on her phone every time someone rings or approaches. “It’s like having a video intercom,” she told me. “I can see the pizza guy, tell him to leave the box by the door, and even watch the delivery in real time.”

Using Regular Arlo Cameras as Doorbell Replacements (The “DIY” Approach)

What if you already have an Arlo Pro 4, Arlo Ultra, or another non-doorbell camera? Can it still act like a doorbell?

Absolutely—but with a twist. These cameras don’t have a physical button, so visitors can’t “ring” them. But they do have advanced motion detection and audio. Here’s how you can turn them into a smart doorbell alternative:

• Motion-triggered alerts: Set up activity zones focused on your front porch. When someone walks into the zone, you’ll get a notification—even if they don’t press anything.
• Two-way talk: Tap the app, and you can speak to the person at your door. “Hello, can I help you?” or “Leave the package by the bench,” no problem.
• Custom chimes: Use the Arlo app’s built-in chime feature (available in newer app versions) to play a sound on your phone or tablet when motion is detected.

Pro tip: Pair your regular Arlo camera with an Arlo Chime 2 (sold separately). This little plug-in device connects to your Wi-Fi and plays a doorbell sound when motion is detected or when someone triggers a doorbell button (if you add one later). It’s a simple way to get that “ding-dong” experience without rewiring your house.

The Catch: No Button = No Traditional Ring

Here’s the trade-off: If you’re using a standard Arlo camera (like the Pro 4), visitors can’t “ring” it. They’ll just walk up, maybe wave, and trigger motion detection. That’s fine for most people—especially if you’re okay with checking your phone when you get an alert.

But if you have elderly relatives, delivery drivers, or guests who expect a button, this might feel a little awkward. I learned this the hard way when my mom came over. She pressed the air where the old doorbell used to be, looked at the camera, shrugged, and walked around to the back door. “I didn’t know how to ring it,” she said. Oops.

The solution? Add a physical button. You can use the Arlo Doorbell Button (available separately) or a third-party wireless doorbell that sends alerts to your Arlo app via IFTTT or HomeKit. More on that in the “add-ons” section!

Arlo’s Dedicated Doorbell Models: What’s Available?

If you’re ready to go all-in on Arlo’s doorbell experience, they offer several models. Let’s break them down so you can pick the right one for your needs.

Arlo Essential Wired Video Doorbell

This is Arlo’s most popular doorbell for a reason. It’s wired (so no battery anxiety), has excellent video quality, and works with your existing doorbell wiring (16–24V AC). Here’s what you get:

• 1536p HD video with HDR—clearer than 1080p, with better contrast in bright sunlight
• 180° field of view—sees from head to toe, so no more “I can’t see the package!”
• Pre-roll recording—captures 3 seconds before motion is detected, so you don’t miss anything
• Night vision (color and black-and-white)—see clearly even in total darkness
• Weather-resistant (IP65)—handles rain, snow, and heat

One thing I love: The customizable activity zones. You can set it to ignore the street and only alert you when someone steps on your porch. No more false alarms from passing cars!

Arlo Essential Wireless Video Doorbell

Prefer no wires? This battery-powered version is perfect. It uses a rechargeable battery (lasts 6–8 weeks) and connects directly to Wi-Fi. Key features:

• Same 1536p video and 180° view as the wired model
• Wire-free installation—stick it on with the included mount or screw it in
• Quick-release battery—easy to pop out and charge
• Works with Arlo Secure plans for cloud storage and smart alerts

Drawback: You’ll need to charge the battery every few weeks. Not a big deal, but if you forget, you’ll get “low battery” alerts. (Ask me how I know.)

Arlo Pro 5S 2K (Not a Doorbell, But Doorbell-Ready)

Wait—this isn’t a doorbell. But hear me out. The Arlo Pro 5S 2K is a high-end security camera with doorbell-like capabilities when paired with accessories. It has:

• 2K HDR video
• Color night vision
• Two-way audio
• Smart motion detection (person, package, animal, vehicle)

Pair it with the Arlo Doorbell Button (sold separately), and boom—you’ve got a wireless doorbell system. The button connects to the camera via Arlo’s secure network and triggers an alert + chime. It’s a great option if you want a camera and a button without rewiring.

Arlo Chime 2: The Missing “Ding-Dong”

No matter which Arlo model you use, the Arlo Chime 2 is a game-changer. It’s a small plug-in speaker that:

• Plugs into any outlet inside your home
• Plays customizable doorbell sounds (classic, chime, melody)
• Works with motion detection, doorbell presses, or smart alerts
• Connects via Wi-Fi (no hub needed)

I use mine in the kitchen. When the doorbell rings or someone approaches, I hear a soft “ding-dong” from the other room. No more missing deliveries because I was in the basement!

Setup Tips: Making Your Arlo Doorbell Work Like a Pro

Setting up an Arlo doorbell (or using a regular camera as one) is easier than you think—but a few tips can save you headaches. Here’s what I’ve learned from my own installs and helping friends.

Wired vs. Wireless: Which to Choose?

Wired (like the Essential Wired): Best if:

• You have existing doorbell wiring
• You hate recharging batteries
• You want the most reliable connection

Wireless (like the Essential Wireless or Pro 5S + Button): Best if:

• You rent or can’t drill into your wall
• You want quick, tool-free installation
• You’re okay with charging every 6–8 weeks

Pro tip: If you’re going wireless, install near your Wi-Fi router or use an Arlo SmartHub to boost the signal. Weak Wi-Fi = delayed alerts.

Optimizing Motion Detection (Avoid False Alarms)

Nothing’s worse than getting 20 alerts for a squirrel. Here’s how to fine-tune your Arlo:

• Use activity zones: In the Arlo app, draw boxes around areas you care about (e.g., your porch, not the street).
• Adjust sensitivity: Lower it if you’re getting too many alerts from passing cars or trees.
• Enable AI detection: With an Arlo Secure plan, you can set it to only alert for people, packages, or vehicles—not animals or shadows.

My setup: I ignore motion on the sidewalk, only alert for people on the porch, and get a separate notification for packages. It’s like having a personal doorbell assistant!

Two-Way Audio: Speak Without Scaring People

Two-way audio is powerful, but it can feel awkward at first. Here’s how to use it like a pro:

• Keep it friendly: “Hi, I’m here! Leave the package by the door.” Sounds better than “I’m watching you.”
• Use headphones: If you’re in a noisy room, plug in headphones so you don’t blast audio through the camera.
• Pre-record messages: Some Arlo models let you record quick responses (“I’ll be right there!”) for common situations.

I once scared my mailman by saying, “Hello, I see you!” too loudly. Now I use a calm voice and a smiley face emoji in the app. Much better!

Comparing Arlo Doorbell Options: A Quick Guide

Not sure which Arlo doorbell (or setup) is right for you? Here’s a quick comparison of the main options:

Feature	Essential Wired	Essential Wireless	Pro 5S + Button	Regular Arlo + Chime 2
Physical button?	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ (with add-on)	❌ (unless you add a button)
Video quality	1536p HDR	1536p HDR	2K HDR	Varies (e.g., 2K for Pro 5S)
Field of view	180°	180°	160°	Varies (e.g., 130° for Pro 4)
Installation	Wired (uses existing wiring)	Wireless (battery)	Wireless (battery)	Varies (usually wireless)
Chime included?	❌ (use app or add Chime 2)	❌ (use app or add Chime 2)	❌ (add Chime 2)	❌ (add Chime 2)
Best for	Homeowners, wired setups	Renters, no wiring	High-end video + button	Existing Arlo users

Note: All models require Wi-Fi and the Arlo app. Cloud storage requires an Arlo Secure subscription.

Pros, Cons, and Real-World Insights

Let’s be honest: No product is perfect. Arlo doorbells (and doorbell-like setups) have strengths and weaknesses. Here’s the real talk, based on my experience and feedback from other users.

The Pros: Why People Love Arlo

• Easy setup: Even if you’re not tech-savvy, the app walks you through every step.
• Great video quality: 1536p and 2K are crisp, and the wide field of view means you see more.
• Flexible options: Whether you want wired, wireless, or a mix, Arlo has you covered.
• Smart alerts: With a subscription, you can filter out animals, cars, and other false triggers.
• Works with smart home systems: Integrates with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit.

I love that I can say, “Alexa, show me the front door,” and my Echo Show pulls up the Arlo feed instantly. Super handy when the doorbell rings while I’m cooking.

The Cons: Where Arlo Falls Short

• Battery life (wireless models): 6–8 weeks sounds good, but in winter, it drops to 4–5 weeks. You’ll need to charge more often.
• Subscription for full features: Free cloud storage is limited. To get smart alerts, 30-day video history, and e911, you’ll need Arlo Secure (starts at $2.99/month per camera).
• Wi-Fi dependency: If your internet goes out, so do alerts and live views. Not ideal during storms.
• No local storage (on most models): Everything goes to the cloud. If you’re privacy-conscious, this might be a dealbreaker.

One friend, Mark, switched to Arlo after a break-in. He loved the video quality but was frustrated that he couldn’t access footage during a power outage. “I had to wait for the internet to come back,” he said. “Next time, I’ll get a model with local storage.”

Real-World Tips from Users

• “Use the Arlo app’s ‘Snooze’ feature: If you’re expecting a delivery, snooze alerts for 30 minutes so you don’t get spammed.” – Sarah, mom of two
• “Pair it with a smart lock: When the doorbell rings, I check the feed, then unlock the door remotely for the dog walker.” – James, remote worker
• “Get the Chime 2: I missed so many deliveries before I added it. Now I hear the ‘ding-dong’ from anywhere in the house.” – Lisa, homeowner

Final Verdict: Does Arlo Have a Doorbell? Yes—But It’s More Than Just a Button

So, does Arlo security camera have a doorbell? Yes, absolutely—but it’s not just one thing. Arlo offers:

• Dedicated doorbell cameras (wired and wireless) with physical buttons, HD video, and two-way talk.
• Regular security cameras that can act like doorbells with motion alerts, two-way audio, and add-on chimes.
• Accessories like the Chime 2 and Doorbell Button that bridge the gap between traditional doorbells and smart cameras.

Whether you’re replacing your old doorbell, upgrading your security, or just want to see who’s at the door without getting up, Arlo has a solution. The key is knowing what you need:

• Want a true doorbell replacement with a button and chime? Go with the Essential Wired or Essential Wireless.
• Already have an Arlo camera? Add a Chime 2 and use motion alerts—or get a Doorbell Button for a full doorbell experience.
• Need top-tier video quality? The Pro 5S 2K paired with a button is a powerful combo.

And remember: Arlo isn’t just about seeing visitors. It’s about peace of mind. I’ve caught package thieves, welcomed guests remotely, and even scared off a raccoon (true story). That’s the real value.

So, next time someone asks, “Does Arlo have a doorbell?” you can say, “Yes—and it’s smarter than you think.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Arlo Security Camera have a doorbell feature?

Arlo does not integrate doorbells directly into its standard security cameras, but they offer dedicated video doorbell models like the Arlo Essential Video Doorbell. These doorbells work seamlessly with the same Arlo app and ecosystem as their security cameras.

Can I use an Arlo doorbell with my existing Arlo security cameras?

Yes, Arlo doorbells (wired or wireless) are fully compatible with other Arlo security cameras. You can manage all devices, receive alerts, and view live feeds through the unified Arlo app.

What’s the difference between Arlo security cameras and Arlo doorbells?

Arlo security cameras are designed for indoor/outdoor surveillance, while Arlo doorbells specifically focus on front-door monitoring with features like motion-activated alerts, package detection, and two-way audio for visitor communication.

Does the Arlo Video Doorbell require a separate subscription?

Like Arlo security cameras, the doorbell offers basic functionality without a subscription, but features like cloud storage, AI detection, and activity zones require an Arlo Secure plan for full access.

Are Arlo doorbells wireless or do they need wiring?

Arlo offers both options: the Essential Video Doorbell (wireless, battery-powered) and the Wired Video Doorbell. The wireless model is easy to install, while the wired version requires existing doorbell wiring for power.

Is an Arlo doorbell worth buying if I already have Arlo security cameras?

If you want dedicated door monitoring with features like facial recognition and package detection, an Arlo doorbell complements your existing cameras. It expands coverage and integrates smoothly with your current Arlo system.