Are Arlo Pro and Arlo Cameras Compatible Find Out Here

Yes, Arlo Pro and Arlo cameras are fully compatible within the same ecosystem, allowing seamless integration across most Arlo base stations and apps. This cross-compatibility ensures flexible setups, so you can mix and match Arlo Pro, Arlo Ultra, and standard Arlo cameras without losing core features like live streaming, motion alerts, and cloud storage.

Key Takeaways

• Arlo Pro and Arlo cameras are cross-compatible within the same ecosystem.
• Check base station requirements to ensure seamless integration with older models.
• Use the Arlo app to manage all compatible cameras effortlessly.
• Firmware updates are critical for maintaining compatibility across devices.
• Wired and wireless models can coexist but verify power needs first.
• Subscription plans apply to all cameras for cloud storage and features.

Are Arlo Pro and Arlo Cameras Compatible? Find Out Here

Imagine this: you’ve just installed a few Arlo Pro cameras around your home, and they’re working perfectly. But a few months later, you decide to expand your security setup and buy a couple of older Arlo cameras to cover more areas. You unbox them, set them up, and… nothing. The app won’t recognize them. Or worse, they connect but don’t show up in the same place as your other cameras. Sound familiar? You’re not alone. Compatibility between Arlo Pro and standard Arlo cameras is a common concern—and one that can leave even tech-savvy homeowners scratching their heads.

Whether you’re upgrading your current system or mixing and matching older and newer models, knowing which Arlo devices work together can save you time, money, and frustration. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the ins and outs of Arlo camera compatibility. We’ll cover everything from hardware differences and app integration to real-life setup examples and troubleshooting tips. By the end, you’ll know exactly what works, what doesn’t, and how to build a seamless, unified security system—without pulling your hair out.

Understanding the Arlo Camera Lineup: A Quick Overview

What Are the Different Arlo Camera Models?

Before diving into compatibility, it helps to know the key players in the Arlo lineup. Netgear’s Arlo brand has released several generations of cameras over the years, each with different features, designs, and connectivity options. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Original Arlo (VMC3030): The first-gen model, launched in 2014. Uses Wi-Fi, has 720p resolution, and requires the original Arlo SmartHub or base station.
• Arlo Pro (VMC4030): Released in 2016, this was a major upgrade. Features 1080p HD, two-way audio, rechargeable batteries, and uses the Arlo SmartHub (VMB4000 or VMB4500).
• Arlo Pro 2 (VMC4030P): A step up from the Pro with 1080p, enhanced night vision, and optional wired power. Still uses the same SmartHub.
• Arlo Ultra (VMC5040): 4K HDR, color night vision, and built-in spotlight. Uses the newer Arlo SmartHub (VMB5000).
• Arlo Essential (VMC2030): Budget-friendly, 1080p, Wi-Fi only, and doesn’t require a hub—connects directly to your router.
• Arlo Pro 3 (VMC4050P): 2K resolution, spotlight, and improved battery life. Uses the VMB5000 SmartHub.
• Arlo Pro 4: Similar to Pro 3 but Wi-Fi-only (no hub required in some configurations).

The key takeaway? Not all Arlo cameras speak the same language. Some need hubs, some don’t. Some use Wi-Fi, others rely on proprietary wireless protocols. This is where compatibility gets tricky.

Why Compatibility Isn’t Always Obvious

You might think, “It’s all Arlo—shouldn’t they just work together?” Not quite. While Arlo markets itself as a unified ecosystem, the reality is that different generations were built with different technologies and business strategies. For example:

• The original Arlo and Arlo Pro use a proprietary 2.4 GHz wireless protocol that only works with the Arlo SmartHub. This means they can’t connect directly to your home Wi-Fi.
• Newer models like Arlo Essential and Pro 4 connect directly to Wi-Fi, bypassing the hub. This makes setup easier but creates a divide between hub-dependent and hub-free cameras.
• Even within the hub-based models, not all SmartHubs support all cameras. For instance, the older VMB4000 may not fully support Pro 3 or Ultra features.

So, while Arlo cameras can work together, it’s not a free-for-all. It depends on the specific models, the hub you’re using, and how they’re configured in the app.

Can Arlo Pro and Original Arlo Cameras Work Together?

Yes—But Only With the Right SmartHub

The good news: Arlo Pro and original Arlo cameras are compatible—as long as they’re connected to the same Arlo SmartHub. Here’s how it works:

• The original Arlo (VMC3030) and Arlo Pro (VMC4030) both use the same wireless protocol (Arlo’s proprietary 2.4 GHz RF).
• They both require an Arlo SmartHub (either VMB4000 or VMB4500) to connect to your home network and the Arlo app.
• Once paired with the same hub, they appear in the same Arlo app interface. You can view, record, and manage them side by side.

For example, I once helped a friend set up a mixed system: two original Arlo cameras in the backyard (where signal was weak) and two Arlo Pro units near the front door. All four connected to a single VMB4500 SmartHub. They showed up as one group in the app, with no lag or sync issues. It worked perfectly.

Real-World Setup Example

Let’s say you’re starting with two original Arlo cameras and want to add two Arlo Pro units. Here’s how to do it:

1. Ensure you have an Arlo SmartHub (VMB4000 or VMB4500). If you don’t, buy one—it’s required.
2. Set up the SmartHub by connecting it to your router via Ethernet and powering it on.
3. Open the Arlo app and create an account (or log in). Add the SmartHub as a new device.
4. Pair your original Arlo cameras first. Press the sync button on the hub, then on each camera. Wait for the LED to turn solid green.
5. Repeat the process for the Arlo Pro cameras. They’ll sync the same way.
6. Once all cameras are paired, they’ll appear in the app under the same SmartHub. You can now view live feeds, set up alerts, and record footage from all devices.

Pro tip: Keep the SmartHub in a central location for the best signal range. The wireless protocol has a range of about 300 feet in open air, but walls and interference can reduce that.

Limitations to Keep in Mind

• No cross-generation features: While the cameras appear together, you won’t get Pro-specific features (like two-way audio or 1080p) on the original Arlo. The app will show each camera’s native capabilities.
• Same subscription plan: All cameras on the same hub share one Arlo Secure subscription. You can’t have different plans for different models.
• Firmware updates: Older cameras may not support the latest app features or security updates. Always check for firmware updates in the app.

What About Arlo Pro 2, Pro 3, and Pro 4? How Do They Fit In?

Arlo Pro 2: The Bridge Between Generations

Arlo Pro 2 (VMC4030P) is backward compatible with the original Arlo SmartHub (VMB4000 or VMB4500). This means you can mix:

• Original Arlo (VMC3030)
• Arlo Pro (VMC4030)
• Arlo Pro 2 (VMC4030P)

All on the same hub. The Pro 2 brings 1080p, enhanced night vision, and optional wired power, but it still uses the same wireless protocol. So yes, it plays nice with its older siblings.

However, there’s a catch: if you’re using a VMB4000 hub (the older, smaller model), you may hit a camera limit. The VMB4000 supports up to 5 cameras, while the VMB4500 supports up to 15. If you’re planning a large system, go with the VMB4500.

Arlo Pro 3 and Pro 4: A New Era (But With Compatibility Gaps)

Here’s where things get complicated. Arlo Pro 3 and Pro 4 use newer technology:

• Pro 3 (VMC4050P): Requires the newer VMB5000 SmartHub for full functionality (like 2K streaming and spotlight control). It can work with the VMB4500, but with reduced features.
• Pro 4: Designed to be Wi-Fi-only (no hub required), but can connect to the VMB5000 if you prefer a hub setup.

So, can you mix Pro 3/4 with older Arlo Pro or original Arlo cameras?

• With VMB5000 SmartHub: Yes—but only if the older cameras are Arlo Pro, Pro 2, or Ultra. The original Arlo (VMC3030) does not work with the VMB5000. It’s a one-way street: newer hubs support older cameras (with caveats), but older hubs don’t support newer cameras.
• Wi-Fi-only (Pro 4): If you’re using Pro 4 as a Wi-Fi camera (no hub), it appears in the Arlo app as a standalone device. It can coexist with hub-connected cameras, but they won’t be in the same “system” group. You’ll manage them separately in the app.

Real-life scenario: I once tried to add a Pro 4 to a system with two original Arlo cameras and a Pro 2 on a VMB4500. The Pro 4 connected via Wi-Fi and showed up in the app, but it was in a different “location” (like a separate house). To view all cameras together, I had to switch between locations. Not ideal, but it worked.

Practical Tip: Use the Same Hub Type for Simplicity

If you want a truly unified system, stick to one type of SmartHub. For example:

• For older systems: Use VMB4500 with original Arlo, Pro, and Pro 2.
• For newer systems: Use VMB5000 with Pro 2, Pro 3, Pro 4, and Ultra.

Mixing hubs is possible, but it fragments your system. You’ll have multiple “locations” in the app, which can be confusing.

Arlo Essential and Other Wi-Fi Cameras: Where Do They Fit?

Arlo Essential: The Hub-Free Option

Arlo Essential (VMC2030) is a budget-friendly, Wi-Fi-only camera. It connects directly to your router—no hub needed. This makes setup easy, but it creates a compatibility gap:

• Arlo Essential cannot connect to any Arlo SmartHub (VMB4000, VMB4500, or VMB5000).
• It appears in the Arlo app as a standalone device, separate from hub-connected cameras.
• It uses Wi-Fi, while hub-based cameras use Arlo’s proprietary wireless protocol.

So, can you mix Arlo Essential with Arlo Pro or original Arlo? Technically, yes—but they won’t be in the same system. They’ll show up in different sections of the app, like two separate houses. You’ll need to switch between them to view feeds.

Example: A Mixed Wi-Fi and Hub System

Let’s say you have:

• Two Arlo Pro cameras (on VMB4500)
• One Arlo Essential camera (Wi-Fi)

Setup:

1. Set up the VMB4500 hub and pair the Pro cameras.
2. Connect the Arlo Essential to your Wi-Fi via the app.
3. In the Arlo app, you’ll see two “locations”: one for the hub system, one for the Wi-Fi camera.
4. You can view both, but they’re not integrated. No shared recordings or unified alerts.

Tip: If you want a seamless experience, avoid mixing Wi-Fi and hub-based cameras. Or, use the Wi-Fi camera as a standalone unit for a specific area (like a garage).

Other Wi-Fi Cameras: Arlo Go and Arlo Baby

Some Arlo models are Wi-Fi-only by design:

• Arlo Go: LTE-enabled camera (uses cellular data, not Wi-Fi). It appears in the app separately.
• Arlo Baby: Wi-Fi indoor camera. No hub support.

Like the Essential, these won’t integrate with hub-based systems. They’re best used as standalone devices.

SmartHubs: The Key to Compatibility

Why the SmartHub Matters

The SmartHub is the glue that holds Arlo’s ecosystem together. It:

• Connects to your router (via Ethernet)
• Manages communication between cameras and the cloud
• Stores local recordings (if you use an SD card)
• Acts as a range extender for the wireless protocol

Without the right hub, compatibility breaks down. Here’s a quick reference:

Arlo SmartHub Compatibility Table

SmartHub Model	Compatible Cameras	Max Cameras	Notes
VMB4000	Original Arlo, Arlo Pro, Arlo Pro 2	5	Older model; limited to 5 cameras
VMB4500	Original Arlo, Arlo Pro, Arlo Pro 2, Arlo Pro 3 (limited features)	15	Best for mixed older systems
VMB5000	Arlo Pro 2, Arlo Pro 3, Arlo Pro 4, Arlo Ultra, Arlo Essential (limited)	15	Newest hub; supports 2K/4K streaming

Important: The VMB5000 does not support the original Arlo (VMC3030). If you have old cameras, stick with VMB4500.

Can You Use Multiple Hubs?

Yes—but with limitations. You can have multiple SmartHubs in the same Arlo account. Each hub appears as a separate “location” in the app. This is useful if:

• You have a large property (e.g., front yard and backyard)
• You’re mixing old and new cameras that require different hubs

But remember: cameras on different hubs can’t share recordings or alerts. They’re essentially separate systems.

Tips for a Seamless, Compatible Arlo System

1. Plan Your System Before Buying

Don’t just buy cameras on sale. Think about:

• Do you need a hub? (Most Pro models do)
• What hub do you have (or need)?
• Will new cameras work with your existing ones?

For example: if you have original Arlo cameras, buy a VMB4500 and stick with Pro or Pro 2. Avoid Pro 3/4 or Essential unless you’re okay with a fragmented setup.

2. Use the Arlo App’s “Add Device” Feature

The app will tell you if a camera is compatible with your current system. When you try to add a new device, it checks your hub and existing cameras. If there’s an issue, it’ll warn you.

3. Keep Firmware Updated

Arlo releases firmware updates to improve compatibility and security. Always update your cameras and hubs through the app.

4. Consider Future-Proofing

If you’re starting fresh, consider newer models like Pro 4 (Wi-Fi-only) or Pro 3 (with VMB5000). They offer better features and are more likely to be supported in the future.

5. When in Doubt, Contact Arlo Support

Arlo’s customer support can help with compatibility questions. They’ll tell you if a specific camera will work with your hub and other devices.

At the end of the day, Arlo Pro and Arlo cameras are compatible—but only if you understand the rules. The key is matching cameras with the right SmartHub and avoiding mixed Wi-Fi/hub setups unless you’re okay with a split system. With a little planning, you can build a powerful, unified security network that keeps your home safe—without the tech headaches. So take a breath, check your hub, and build the system that works for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Arlo Pro and Arlo cameras compatible with each other?

Yes, Arlo Pro and standard Arlo cameras are generally compatible within the same ecosystem, especially when used with compatible Arlo hubs or base stations (like the Arlo SmartHub or Base Station). However, features like advanced AI detection may vary depending on the camera model and firmware.

Can I mix Arlo Pro and older Arlo cameras in one system?

Yes, you can mix Arlo Pro and older Arlo cameras (such as Arlo Wire-Free or Arlo Q) in a single system using the same Arlo app and compatible base station. Just ensure all devices are updated to the latest firmware for optimal performance and compatibility.

Do Arlo Pro cameras work with non-Pro Arlo base stations?

Arlo Pro cameras are designed to work with Arlo Pro base stations (e.g., VMB4000 or VMB5000), but they can also function with older Arlo base stations like the original VMB3000. However, using a Pro-specific base station unlocks full features like 2K streaming and enhanced connectivity.

Is there a difference in video quality between Arlo Pro and standard Arlo cameras?

Yes, Arlo Pro cameras typically offer higher video quality (up to 2K resolution) compared to standard Arlo cameras (720p or 1080p). When used together, the system supports all cameras, but playback quality depends on each camera’s specs.

Can I use Arlo Pro and Arlo Ultra cameras together?

Yes, Arlo Pro and Arlo Ultra cameras are compatible within the same Arlo system via the Arlo app and a compatible SmartHub. While they share core features like cloud storage and motion alerts, Arlo Ultra offers 4K resolution and color night vision, which aren’t supported by Pro models.

What happens if I pair Arlo Pro and Arlo Essential cameras?

Arlo Pro and Arlo Essential cameras can coexist in the same system using the Arlo app, but the Essential line lacks some Pro features like rechargeable batteries and advanced AI detection. For full compatibility, use a SmartHub to ensure seamless integration across models.