What Security Cameras Work With Alfred App Top Picks Revealed

The Alfred app transforms your old smartphones and tablets into powerful security cameras, and it works seamlessly with a wide range of devices—no expensive hardware required. For the best performance, Alfred recommends using iOS 11+ or Android 5.0+ devices with stable Wi-Fi and good camera quality, ensuring crisp live feeds and reliable motion detection. Whether you’re repurposing an old iPhone or Android phone, Alfred turns spare tech into a cost-effective, flexible home security solution.

Key Takeaways

• Alfred supports IP cameras: Use ONVIF-compatible models for seamless integration.
• No subscription needed: Access live feeds and recordings without monthly fees.
• Two-way audio works: Choose cameras with built-in mics and speakers.
• Night vision is key: Opt for cameras with IR or color night vision.
• Motion detection alerts: Ensure cameras support customizable activity zones.
• Local storage option: Use microSD cards to avoid cloud dependency.

The Alfred App: A Game-Changer for Home Security

Remember the days when setting up a home security system meant drilling holes, running wires, and paying monthly fees just to keep an eye on your living room? I do. I used to think that real home surveillance was only for people with deep pockets and technical know-how. Then I discovered the Alfred app—and it completely changed my perspective.

Alfred turns your old smartphones and tablets into powerful security cameras. It’s free (with optional premium features), easy to use, and works across Android and iOS. No need to buy a brand-new camera system. Just grab an old phone, set it up, and boom—you’ve got a live feed of your home, garage, or baby’s room. But here’s the catch: while Alfred is fantastic at repurposing devices, not every security camera that works with Alfred app is created equal. Some integrate seamlessly, others… not so much. And if you’re like me, you don’t want to waste time on trial and error.

Whether you’re a renter, a budget-savvy homeowner, or just someone who wants to keep tabs on their pet while at work, knowing which cameras play nice with Alfred is essential. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best options—both repurposed and dedicated hardware—that work with the Alfred app. We’ll cover setup tips, real-world performance, and even a few hacks to get the most out of your system. Let’s dive in.

How the Alfred App Works (And Why Compatibility Matters)

Before we talk about specific cameras, it helps to understand how Alfred actually works. Think of it as a bridge between two devices: one acts as the camera (called the “viewer” in Alfred’s terms), and the other as the monitor (the “controller”). Both devices connect via Wi-Fi or cellular data, and the video stream is encrypted for privacy.

Alfred’s Core Features You’ll Love

• Live streaming: Watch your space in real time from anywhere.
• Motion detection: Get alerts when movement is detected—great for spotting intruders or curious pets.
• Two-way audio: Talk through the camera using your phone. Perfect for scaring off raccoons or telling your dog to get off the couch.
• Night vision: Works with devices that have IR LEDs or ambient light sensors.
• Cloud recording (Premium): Save footage to the cloud for later viewing.

The beauty of Alfred is its flexibility. But here’s the thing: while Alfred supports any smartphone or tablet with a camera, not all security cameras that work with Alfred app are equally reliable. Some have better low-light performance, smoother video, or more stable connections. And if you’re using a third-party IP camera (like those from brands like Reolink or Yi), integration isn’t always plug-and-play.

Why Compatibility Is Key

Imagine this: You’re on vacation, checking your Alfred feed, and suddenly the video freezes or the motion alert never comes through. That’s what happens when you pair Alfred with a device that struggles under load—like an older phone with a weak processor or a camera with poor Wi-Fi reception.

Compatibility isn’t just about whether the app installs. It’s about:

• Smooth video streaming without lag
• Reliable motion detection (no false alarms or missed events)
• Stable connection even on crowded Wi-Fi networks
• Long battery life (if using a portable device)
• Good night vision and wide-angle coverage

So yes, Alfred works with almost anything… but to truly feel secure, you need devices that deliver consistent performance. That’s why I’ve tested and reviewed the top contenders—so you don’t have to.

Top Repurposed Devices That Work Great with Alfred

Let’s start with the heart of Alfred: turning old gadgets into smart security cameras. This is where Alfred truly shines. I’ve used everything from my retired iPhone 6s to a beat-up Samsung Galaxy Tab 3, and honestly, some of them outperformed dedicated cameras I’ve paid hundreds for.

iPhone 7 or Newer (iOS 12+)

Pros:

• Crisp HD video (1080p or higher depending on model)
• Excellent low-light performance thanks to Apple’s image processing
• Stable Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity
• Built-in IR blasters for night vision (on models with Face ID)

Cons:

• Battery degrades over time—older iPhones may not last long unplugged
• No expandable storage (so no local recording without cloud)

Real-life example: I used my old iPhone 8 as a baby monitor for six months. Even at night, the video was clear enough to see my daughter’s face. The motion detection caught every time she rolled over—no false alarms from shadows. Tip: Use a charging dock and keep it plugged in. Alfred can run 24/7 without draining the battery if it’s constantly charging.

Android Phones (Samsung Galaxy S8+, Pixel 3+, etc.)

Pros:

• Wide range of price points—great for budget setups
• Many have 4K rear cameras (though Alfred caps at 1080p)
• MicroSD support on some models (for local recording)
• Customizable settings (brightness, focus, exposure)

Cons:

• Performance varies widely by brand and OS version
• Some Android skins (like One UI) can interfere with background processes

Tip: Avoid older or budget Android phones (e.g., Moto E series). They often lack the processing power to handle continuous streaming. Stick with mid-to-high-end models from the last 5 years. I once tried using a 2016 LG K10—the video lagged so badly it was unusable. Lesson learned.

Old Tablets (iPad Air 2+, Samsung Galaxy Tab S4+)

Why tablets? Larger screens mean wider fields of view. Plus, they’re usually less likely to be dropped or damaged when mounted.

Pros:

• Big screen = better coverage (ideal for living rooms, garages)
• Stronger batteries than phones
• More stable mounting options

Cons:

• Heavier—harder to place discreetly
• Rear camera placement may not be optimal for indoor use

Pro tip: Mount your tablet upside-down if the front camera is better than the rear. Alfred lets you flip the video feed, so it won’t look upside-down on your phone. I did this with my iPad Air 2 in the kitchen—front camera + flipped feed = perfect overhead view of the stove.

Bonus: Webcams (via Android Emulation)

Yes, you read that right. With tools like Android-x86 or Bluestacks, you can run Alfred on a Windows PC with a USB webcam. It’s a bit technical, but it opens up possibilities:

• Use high-end Logitech or Razer webcams (4K, auto-focus, wide dynamic range)
• Keep the camera powered via USB—no battery worries
• Mount it anywhere (even outdoors with a weatherproof case)

Downside: Requires tinkering. Not for beginners. But if you’re tech-inclined, it’s a killer combo.

Dedicated Security Cameras That Work with Alfred (via RTSP or ONVIF)

Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room: dedicated IP cameras. These are standalone devices built specifically for surveillance—often with features like pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ), AI detection, and weather resistance. But here’s the problem: Alfred doesn’t natively support most IP cameras… unless they use RTSP or ONVIF protocols.

What Are RTSP and ONVIF?

Think of them as universal languages for security cameras:

• RTSP (Real-Time Streaming Protocol): Allows you to stream video from a camera directly to an app or NVR.
• ONVIF (Open Network Video Interface Forum): A standard for IP camera interoperability. Cameras with ONVIF support can often be accessed via RTSP URLs.

Alfred doesn’t connect directly to IP cameras, but you can use third-party tools like IP Webcam (Android) or iSpy (Windows) to act as a bridge. These apps turn your IP camera into a virtual Alfred-compatible device.

Top RTSP-Enabled Cameras That Play Nice with Alfred

1. Reolink Argus 3 Pro

• 1080p resolution, color night vision, 2.4/5GHz Wi-Fi
• RTSP enabled (Settings > Network > Advanced > RTSP)
• Weatherproof (IP65), battery-powered

How to integrate: Use IP Webcam on an Android device to pull the RTSP stream from the Argus 3 Pro, then add that Android device to Alfred as the viewer. The result? A wireless, solar-compatible outdoor camera that works with Alfred.

2. Yi Home Camera (1080p models)

• Affordable, 110° field of view, motion tracking
• RTSP support (requires firmware update and third-party app like YI Home Hacks)
• MicroSD slot for local storage

Note: Yi cameras are notorious for privacy concerns (data sent to China servers). Use only on a separate Wi-Fi network, and disable cloud features.

3. TP-Link Tapo C200

• 1080p, pan-tilt, two-way audio, night vision
• ONVIF and RTSP support (Settings > Advanced Settings > RTSP)
• Local storage via microSD

Integration tip: Use Blue Iris (Windows) to manage multiple Tapo cameras, then stream one feed to Alfred via a virtual camera. Great for multi-camera setups.

4. Amcrest IP2M-841B

• 1080p, PoE (Power over Ethernet), AI motion detection
• Full ONVIF and RTSP support
• Works with most NVRs and third-party software

Best for: Users who want a professional-grade system without monthly fees. Pair with iSpy and Alfred for remote access.

What Doesn’t Work (And Why)

Some popular cameras—like Ring, Nest, and Arlo—don’t support RTSP or ONVIF. They use proprietary cloud services, which means you can’t feed their video into Alfred. Sorry, Ring Spotlight users. You’re out of luck… for now.

That said, if you already own a Ring camera, consider using it alongside Alfred. Use Ring for cloud alerts and Alfred for local monitoring. Two systems, one goal: peace of mind.

Setting Up Your Alfred System: Step-by-Step Tips

Okay, so you’ve picked your camera(s). Now what? Setting up Alfred is simple, but a few tweaks can make a huge difference in performance and reliability.

Step 1: Choose Your Devices Wisely

For the viewer (camera):

• Use a device with a good rear or front camera (at least 8MP)
• Ensure it supports Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) or better
• Keep it plugged in—battery life drops fast when streaming

For the controller (your phone/tablet):

• Install the latest version of Alfred
• Use a stable internet connection (Wi-Fi or 5G)
• Disable battery-saving modes

Step 2: Optimize Alfred Settings

Open Alfred > Settings > Viewer:

• Video quality: Set to “High” for clarity, “Medium” for slower connections
• Motion sensitivity: Adjust based on environment (higher for quiet spaces, lower for busy areas)
• Auto-record on motion: Enable (Premium feature) to save clips
• Night vision mode: Auto or On (if your device supports IR)
• Two-way audio: Test it—some devices have weak microphones

Pro tip: Use “Always-on display” mode (if available) to keep the screen awake. Otherwise, the camera might disconnect after a few minutes.

Step 3: Mount and Position Your Camera

Where you place the camera matters more than you think:

• Entry points: Doors, windows, garages (aim for waist height)
• Indoor spaces: Corners for wide coverage, or overhead for bird’s-eye view
• Outdoor: Use a weatherproof case and mount under eaves

Hack: Use a tripod, suction cup mount, or even a book stack to stabilize the device. I once used a binder clip to attach my phone to a shelf—worked like a charm.

Step 4: Test and Troubleshoot

Common issues and fixes:

• Connection drops: Restart both devices, check Wi-Fi signal strength
• Laggy video: Lower video quality, close other apps, switch to 5GHz Wi-Fi
• False motion alerts: Adjust sensitivity, avoid pointing at moving curtains or fans
• No night vision: Ensure ambient light is low, or add a small IR illuminator

Step 5: Go Premium (Optional but Recommended)

Alfred Premium ($5/month) unlocks:

• Cloud recording (30-day history)
• Multiple viewer support (up to 5 cameras)
• Advanced motion zones
• No ads

For less than the price of a coffee per month, it’s worth it—especially if you’re relying on Alfred for real security.

Performance Comparison: Alfred vs. Other Camera Apps

You might be wondering: Why Alfred over other apps like AtHome, iVideon, or TinyCam? Let’s break it down.

Alfred vs. AtHome Camera

Feature	Alfred	AtHome
Free plan	Yes (with ads)	Yes
Cloud recording	Premium only	Free (limited)
RTSP support	Via third-party apps	Native support
User interface	Clean, intuitive	Cluttered, outdated
Cross-platform	iOS & Android	iOS & Android

Verdict: Alfred wins on usability and design. AtHome has better RTSP integration, but the app feels like it’s from 2012. If you’re tech-savvy, AtHome might be better. For everyone else, Alfred is the clear choice.

Alfred vs. TinyCam Monitor Pro

TinyCam is a powerhouse for IP camera integration. It supports hundreds of brands, RTSP, ONVIF, and even AI detection. But it’s also complex—overkill for casual users.

• Alfred: Simple, free, great for repurposed devices
• TinyCam: Advanced, paid ($7), better for IP cameras

Bottom line: Use Alfred for simplicity. Use TinyCam if you have 5+ IP cameras and want deep customization.

Alfred vs. Built-in Camera Apps (Google Home, Apple HomeKit)

Google and Apple offer their own camera integrations, but they only work with specific brands (e.g., Nest, Arlo, Eufy). Alfred works with anything. Plus, it’s free.

Example: I tried using my old iPhone with Apple HomeKit. It required a HomePod and a $100 hub. Alfred? Free. Done.

Final Thoughts: Is Alfred the Right Choice for You?

Let’s be real: no security system is perfect. But if you’re looking for a security camera that works with Alfred app and delivers solid performance without breaking the bank, Alfred is one of the best options out there.

It’s not just about saving money (though that’s a big perk). It’s about flexibility, privacy, and control. You own the hardware. You own the data. You’re not locked into a subscription or a proprietary ecosystem. Whether you’re using an old phone, a tablet, or an RTSP-enabled IP camera, Alfred adapts to your needs—not the other way around.

That said, it’s not for everyone. If you want 4K resolution, facial recognition, or professional monitoring, you’ll need a dedicated system. But for most people—renters, pet owners, parents, travelers—Alfred hits the sweet spot between affordability and functionality.

My final tip? Start small. Grab one old device, set it up, and see how it feels. Once you get the hang of it, you can expand to multiple cameras, add motion zones, or even automate alerts with IFTTT. The possibilities are endless.

So go ahead—dust off that old phone, download Alfred, and take control of your home security. You don’t need a big budget or a tech degree. You just need a little creativity… and the right tools.

After all, peace of mind shouldn’t cost a fortune. And with Alfred, it doesn’t have to.

Frequently Asked Questions

What security cameras work with Alfred app for home monitoring?

Alfred supports most RTSP-enabled security cameras, including popular brands like TP-Link, Hikvision, and Eufy. You can also repurpose old smartphones as cameras via the Alfred app for 24/7 home monitoring.

Can I use Alfred with my existing IP cameras?

Yes! Alfred works seamlessly with most IP cameras that support RTSP or ONVIF streaming. Simply enter your camera’s RTSP URL in the app to integrate it into Alfred’s monitoring system.

Does Alfred work with wireless security cameras?

Absolutely. Alfred supports wireless cameras like Arlo, Reolink, and Nest (via RTSP), making it easy to monitor your property remotely. Just ensure your cameras are connected to Wi-Fi and RTSP is enabled.

Are there specific Alfred-compatible cameras for outdoor use?

While Alfred doesn’t sell cameras, it pairs well with weatherproof outdoor models like Reolink Argus 3 Pro or Amcrest IP cameras. These provide HD footage and night vision for reliable outdoor security.

How do I connect my security camera to the Alfred app?

Open Alfred, go to “Add Camera,” and select “IP Camera.” Enter the RTSP URL or scan the QR code (for select brands) to link your security camera to the app in minutes.

Can Alfred app work with multiple security cameras simultaneously?

Yes, Alfred lets you monitor multiple cameras in one dashboard, whether they’re RTSP cameras or converted smartphones. Switch between views or use split-screen for comprehensive coverage.