This guide walks you through how to pair Arlo doorbell with camera using the Arlo app. You’ll get clear, step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and troubleshooting advice to ensure a smooth and successful setup every time.
Key Takeaways
- Download the Arlo app first: The official Arlo app is essential for pairing your doorbell and camera. Make sure it’s updated to the latest version.
- Ensure strong Wi-Fi signal: Place your doorbell and camera within range of your router for reliable connectivity during setup and daily use.
- Use the same Arlo account: Both devices must be linked to the same Arlo account to enable pairing and syncing.
- Follow the in-app pairing wizard: The Arlo app guides you through each step—just tap “Add Device” and follow the prompts.
- Test the connection after setup: Always verify that motion alerts, live view, and two-way audio are working properly.
- Keep firmware updated: Regular updates improve performance and fix bugs that could affect pairing.
- Reset if needed: If pairing fails, use the reset button on both devices and start over for a clean setup.
How to Pair Arlo Doorbell with Camera: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
So, you’ve just unboxed your new Arlo doorbell and camera—congratulations! These smart home devices are designed to keep your home safe, alert you to visitors, and let you see and speak to anyone at your door, even when you’re away. But before you can enjoy all these features, you’ll need to pair your Arlo doorbell with your Arlo camera. Don’t worry—it’s easier than it sounds, and this guide will walk you through every step.
In this comprehensive how-to guide, you’ll learn exactly how to pair Arlo doorbell with camera using the official Arlo app. We’ll cover everything from initial setup and app configuration to troubleshooting common issues. Whether you’re a tech beginner or a smart home pro, this guide is written in simple, friendly language so you can get your system up and running with confidence.
By the end of this article, you’ll have your Arlo doorbell and camera working together seamlessly, sending you real-time alerts, and letting you monitor your front door from anywhere. Let’s get started!
What You’ll Need Before You Begin
Visual guide about How to Pair Arlo Doorbell with Camera
Image source: downloads.arlo.com
Before diving into the pairing process, it’s important to make sure you have everything ready. Skipping this step can lead to frustration or failed setups, so take a moment to gather the following:
- A compatible Arlo doorbell: This includes models like the Arlo Essential Wire-Free Doorbell, Arlo Video Doorbell (Wired), or Arlo Video Doorbell (Wire-Free).
- An Arlo camera: Most Arlo cameras work, including the Arlo Pro 4, Arlo Ultra, Arlo Essential, or Arlo Go.
- A smartphone or tablet: You’ll need a device running iOS 12.0 or later, or Android 6.0 or later.
- The Arlo app installed: Download it for free from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
- A strong Wi-Fi connection: Your doorbell and camera need a stable 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi signal (5 GHz is not supported for most Arlo doorbells).
- Your Arlo account credentials: If you don’t have one, you’ll create it during setup.
- Basic tools (if installing wired): Screwdriver, drill, and possibly a voltage tester if replacing an existing doorbell.
Having these items ready will make the pairing process smooth and stress-free.
Step 1: Install Your Arlo Doorbell
Before you can pair your doorbell with your camera, the doorbell itself must be properly installed. This step varies slightly depending on whether you’re using a wired or wire-free model.
For Wired Arlo Doorbells
If you’re installing a wired Arlo doorbell (like the Arlo Video Doorbell Wired), follow these steps:
- Turn off power at the breaker: Safety first! Locate your home’s electrical panel and turn off the power to the doorbell circuit.
- Remove the old doorbell: Unscrew and disconnect your existing doorbell from the wall.
- Check voltage: Use a voltage tester to ensure the wires are not live. Most Arlo wired doorbells require 8–24V AC.
- Connect the Arlo doorbell wires: Attach the wires to the terminals on the back of the Arlo doorbell. It doesn’t matter which wire goes where—Arlo doorbells are polarity-independent.
- Mount the doorbell: Secure the doorbell to the wall using the included mounting plate and screws.
- Restore power: Turn the breaker back on. The doorbell should power up and show a light.
For Wire-Free Arlo Doorbells
If you’re using a wire-free model (like the Arlo Essential Wire-Free Doorbell), the process is simpler:
- Install the mounting bracket: Use the included template to mark screw holes, then drill and secure the bracket to your doorframe or wall.
- Attach the doorbell: Slide the doorbell onto the bracket until it clicks into place.
- Charge the battery: If the battery isn’t pre-charged, plug it in using the provided USB cable. A full charge takes about 3–4 hours.
- Test the doorbell: Press the button to ensure it lights up and chimes (if connected to a chime kit).
Once your doorbell is installed and powered, you’re ready to move to the next step.
Step 2: Set Up Your Arlo Camera
Your Arlo camera should already be installed and connected to your Wi-Fi network. If not, here’s a quick recap:
- Mount the camera: Choose a location with a clear view of your entryway, driveway, or other area you want to monitor.
- Power the camera: Use the included power adapter or rechargeable battery.
- Download the Arlo app: If you haven’t already, install it on your phone.
- Create or log in to your Arlo account: Open the app and sign in or create a new account.
- Add the camera: Tap the “+” or “Add Device” button, select your camera model, and follow the on-screen instructions to connect it to Wi-Fi.
Make sure your camera is online and showing a live feed in the app before proceeding.
Step 3: Open the Arlo App and Prepare for Pairing
Now that both devices are installed, it’s time to pair them using the Arlo app. The app is the central hub for all Arlo devices, and it makes pairing simple.
Launch the Arlo App
Open the Arlo app on your smartphone or tablet. If you’re not already logged in, enter your email and password. If you don’t have an account, tap “Create Account” and follow the prompts.
Ensure Both Devices Are on the Same Network
For pairing to work, both your doorbell and camera must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network. Most Arlo devices only support 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi, so make sure your router is broadcasting on that frequency. If you have a dual-band router, ensure both devices are on the 2.4 GHz band.
Check Device Status
In the app, go to the “Devices” tab. You should see your camera listed and online. If your doorbell isn’t showing up yet, don’t worry—we’ll add it next.
Step 4: Add Your Arlo Doorbell to the App
Before you can pair the doorbell with the camera, you need to add the doorbell to your Arlo account.
Tap “Add Device”
In the Arlo app, tap the “+” icon or “Add Device” button (usually in the top-right corner).
Select Your Doorbell Model
The app will ask what type of device you’re adding. Choose “Doorbell” and then select your specific model (e.g., “Arlo Essential Wire-Free Doorbell”).
Follow the On-Screen Instructions
The app will guide you through the setup:
- Scan the QR code: Use your phone’s camera to scan the QR code on the back of the doorbell or in the manual.
- Connect to Wi-Fi: Select your Wi-Fi network and enter the password. The doorbell will connect to your network.
- Name your doorbell: Give it a name like “Front Door” or “Main Entrance” for easy identification.
- Test the connection: The app will verify that the doorbell is online and responding.
Once the doorbell is added, it will appear in your device list.
Step 5: Pair Arlo Doorbell with Camera
Now comes the main event: how to pair Arlo doorbell with camera. This step links the two devices so they work together—when the doorbell detects motion or is pressed, the camera can start recording or send you a live view.
Go to Device Settings
In the Arlo app, tap on your doorbell from the device list. Then tap the gear icon (⚙️) to open settings.
Find the “Linked Devices” or “Camera Pairing” Option
Look for a section called “Linked Devices,” “Camera Pairing,” or “Associated Camera.” This may be under “Advanced Settings” or “Motion Settings,” depending on your model.
Select Your Camera
Tap “Add Camera” or “Link Camera.” The app will show a list of Arlo cameras on your account. Select the one you want to pair with the doorbell (e.g., “Front Yard Camera”).
Confirm the Pairing
The app will confirm the link. You may see a message like “Camera successfully paired with doorbell.”
Test the Pairing
To make sure it worked:
- Press the doorbell button. The camera should start recording or send you a live view notification.
- Walk in front of the doorbell to trigger motion. The camera should activate and record.
- Open the app and check the activity feed—you should see events from both devices linked together.
If everything works, congratulations—you’ve successfully paired your Arlo doorbell with your camera!
Step 6: Customize Your Settings
Now that your devices are paired, take a few minutes to customize your settings for the best experience.
Adjust Motion Zones
In the doorbell settings, you can define motion zones. This helps reduce false alerts by ignoring areas like busy streets or trees. Tap “Motion Zones” and draw boxes around the areas you want to monitor.
Set Up Activity Zones on the Camera
Similarly, on your camera, set up activity zones to focus on specific areas. This ensures the camera only records when motion occurs in important spots.
Enable Smart Alerts
Arlo’s AI can distinguish between people, packages, vehicles, and animals. Enable “Smart Alerts” in the app to get more accurate notifications.
Configure Recording Length
Choose how long the camera records after motion is detected—options typically range from 15 seconds to 2 minutes.
Set Up Two-Way Audio
Make sure two-way audio is enabled so you can speak to visitors through the doorbell. Test it by pressing the talk button in the app.
Schedule Modes
Use the “Modes” feature to set different behaviors for different times of day. For example, set “Armed” mode at night and “Disarmed” during the day.
Troubleshooting Common Pairing Issues
Even with careful setup, things don’t always go perfectly. Here are solutions to the most common problems when trying to pair Arlo doorbell with camera.
Doorbell Not Showing Up in the App
- Check Wi-Fi signal: Move closer to your router or use a Wi-Fi extender. Arlo devices need a strong signal.
- Restart the doorbell: For wire-free models, remove and reinsert the battery. For wired models, turn off power for 10 seconds, then restore.
- Re-scan the QR code: Make sure the code is clean and well-lit when scanning.
Camera Not Pairing with Doorbell
- Ensure both devices are on the same account: You can’t pair devices from different Arlo accounts.
- Update the app and firmware: Go to “Settings” > “My Devices” > “Firmware Update” to check for updates.
- Reset both devices: Use the reset button (usually a small pinhole) on each device, then re-add them to the app.
Delayed or Missed Alerts
- Check notification settings: Make sure push notifications are enabled in the app and on your phone.
- Reduce motion sensitivity: High sensitivity can cause battery drain and delayed alerts.
- Ensure background app refresh is on: On iOS, go to Settings > Arlo > Background App Refresh. On Android, check battery optimization settings.
Two-Way Audio Not Working
- Test in quiet environment: Background noise can interfere.
- Check microphone and speaker: Make sure nothing is blocking the doorbell’s mic or speaker.
- Update firmware: Audio bugs are often fixed in updates.
Camera Not Recording When Doorbell is Pressed
- Verify pairing: Go back to the doorbell settings and confirm the camera is still linked.
- Check recording mode: Make sure the camera is in “Armed” mode.
- Test manually: Tap “Live” on the camera in the app to see if it’s responding.
Tips for Optimal Performance
To get the most out of your paired Arlo doorbell and camera, follow these expert tips:
- Place the camera within 30 feet of the doorbell: This ensures reliable communication and overlapping coverage.
- Use a Wi-Fi extender if needed: If your front door is far from the router, a mesh network or extender can boost signal strength.
- Keep firmware updated: Arlo regularly releases updates that improve performance and security.
- Clean the lenses regularly: Dust and dirt can block the camera’s view and motion sensors.
- Use a chime kit for wire-free models: This lets you hear the doorbell inside your home without relying on your phone.
- Enable geofencing: The app can arm or disarm your system based on your location.
Conclusion
Pairing your Arlo doorbell with your Arlo camera is a smart way to enhance your home security. With both devices working together, you’ll get instant alerts, clear video, and the ability to see and speak to visitors from anywhere. While the process may seem technical at first, the Arlo app makes it straightforward—especially when you follow this step-by-step guide.
Remember, the key to success is preparation: make sure your devices are installed, your Wi-Fi is strong, and your app is up to date. Once you’ve completed the pairing, take time to customize your settings for the best experience. And if you run into issues, don’t panic—most problems can be solved with a simple reset or firmware update.
Now that you know how to pair Arlo doorbell with camera, you’re ready to enjoy a safer, smarter home. Whether you’re checking on a delivery, greeting a guest, or keeping an eye on your property, your Arlo system has you covered.