Can Arlo Cameras Be Used With Arlo Pro A Complete Guide

Yes, Arlo cameras are fully compatible with Arlo Pro systems, allowing seamless integration across most models for a unified smart security setup. Whether you’re mixing older Arlo cameras with Arlo Pro hubs or expanding a Pro system with newer Arlo Ultra or Arlo Essential models, the Arlo app ensures easy pairing, shared subscriptions, and synchronized monitoring—maximizing flexibility without sacrificing performance.

Key Takeaways

• Mix and match: Arlo and Arlo Pro cameras work together seamlessly in one system.
• Same base station: Both use the Arlo SmartHub for unified connectivity and storage.
• App integration: Control all cameras via the Arlo app with consistent features.
• Pro upgrades: Arlo Pro offers better resolution and weather resistance than base models.
• No extra cost: No additional fees to integrate different Arlo camera versions.
• Expand freely: Add newer Arlo Pro cameras to older systems without compatibility issues.

Understanding Arlo Cameras and the Arlo Pro Series

When it comes to home security, Arlo has become a household name. Whether you’re protecting your front porch, keeping an eye on your kids in the backyard, or monitoring a vacation home, Arlo’s lineup of smart cameras offers flexibility, reliability, and smart features. But if you’re already using one Arlo product—say, an Arlo Pro camera—and are considering adding another, say, an original Arlo camera or a newer model, you might be asking: Can Arlo cameras be used with Arlo Pro?

The short answer? Yes, but with some important nuances. As someone who’s upgraded my own security setup from a basic Arlo system to include Arlo Pro and newer models, I’ve navigated this exact question. I’ve learned that while Arlo promotes ecosystem compatibility, not every camera plays perfectly with every base station or app feature. The goal of this guide is to cut through the confusion and give you a clear, practical breakdown of what works, what doesn’t, and how to get the most out of your Arlo investment—no matter which models you own.

How Arlo’s Ecosystem Works: Base Stations, Hubs, and App Integration

Before diving into cross-compatibility, it helps to understand how Arlo’s ecosystem is structured. Arlo cameras don’t connect directly to your home Wi-Fi like most smart devices. Instead, they use a base station (also called a hub) to manage communication, storage, and power. Think of the base station as the “brain” of your Arlo setup.

Base Stations and Their Roles

Different Arlo cameras require different base stations. For example:

• Original Arlo (VMS3030): Uses the first-generation Arlo base station.
• Arlo Pro (VMC4030P) and Pro 2 (VMC4030P-2): Use the Arlo Pro base station (VMB4000).
• Arlo Pro 3, Pro 4, Ultra, and newer models: Use the Arlo SmartHub (VMB5000 or VMB4540).

Here’s the key takeaway: You can mix and match cameras as long as they connect to the same base station or hub. But if your cameras require different hubs, you’ll need to either upgrade or run multiple systems.

App Integration: The Arlo App as the Control Center

All Arlo cameras—whether original, Pro, or newer—connect to the Arlo app (available on iOS and Android). This app is your central dashboard for live viewing, motion alerts, recordings, and settings. The good news? The app supports nearly all Arlo models, regardless of generation.

For example, I currently have:

• Two original Arlo cameras (indoor/outdoor)
• One Arlo Pro 2 (outdoor, with spotlight)
• One Arlo Pro 4 (wire-free, 2K HDR)

All four appear in the same Arlo app, grouped by location (e.g., “Front Yard,” “Backyard”). I can switch between them, set activity zones, and receive alerts from any of them—no separate logins or apps needed.

Pro tip: If you’re adding an older camera to a newer hub, always update the hub’s firmware first. This ensures backward compatibility and reduces glitches.

Compatibility Between Arlo Cameras and Arlo Pro Systems

Now, let’s get to the heart of the question: Can you use non-Pro Arlo cameras with an Arlo Pro system? The answer depends on the base station and power source, not the camera name itself.

Using Original Arlo Cameras with an Arlo Pro Base Station

Yes, you can connect original Arlo cameras (like the VMS3030) to an Arlo Pro base station (VMB4000). I did this when I upgraded my base station to support 24/7 recording (a Pro feature). My original Arlo cameras synced seamlessly with the new hub.

How it works:

• Power on the Arlo Pro base station.
• In the Arlo app, go to Settings > My Devices > Add Device.
• Select “Arlo Camera” and follow the on-screen prompts.
• The app will detect both Pro and non-Pro cameras.

Limitations: Original Arlo cameras won’t get Pro-exclusive features like 24/7 recording or advanced motion detection (e.g., person, package, animal). But they’ll work fine for basic motion alerts and live viewing.

Using Arlo Pro Cameras with an Original Base Station

Here’s where things get tricky. Arlo Pro cameras require the Arlo Pro base station (VMB4000). You cannot connect a Pro camera to the original Arlo base station (VMB3000). Why? The Pro base station has more processing power, supports higher bandwidth, and enables features like local storage expansion and enhanced encryption.

I learned this the hard way when I tried to save money by reusing my old base station. The app simply wouldn’t recognize the Pro camera. After a quick chat with Arlo support, I upgraded to the VMB4000—and the camera paired instantly.

Mixing Arlo Pro 2/3/4 with Older Models

Arlo Pro 2, Pro 3, Pro 4, and Ultra cameras all use the Arlo SmartHub (VMB5000/VMB4540). This hub is backward compatible with:

• Original Arlo
• Arlo Pro (VMC4030P)
• Arlo Pro 2 (VMC4030P-2)

But not with newer features. For example, an original Arlo camera on a SmartHub won’t get 2K video or color night vision—those are hardware limitations. However, it will benefit from improved Wi-Fi range and faster app response.

Real-life example: I added an old Arlo Pro to my SmartHub after upgrading to Pro 4. It still works great for basic monitoring, though I miss the Pro 4’s spotlight and HDR in low light.

Power, Connectivity, and Feature Limitations

Even if cameras are technically compatible, differences in power, connectivity, and features can affect performance. Let’s break this down.

Power Requirements

Arlo cameras use different power methods:

• Original Arlo: Rechargeable battery or USB power.
• Arlo Pro (1st and 2nd gen): Rechargeable battery with optional solar panel.
• Arlo Pro 3/4, Ultra: Rechargeable battery with USB-C charging.

Important: You can’t use a Pro 4’s USB-C charger with an original Arlo camera. The ports and battery specs differ. Always use the charger designed for your camera model. I once tried “borrowing” a Pro 4 charger for my old Arlo—it didn’t work and nearly damaged the battery.

Connectivity and Range

All Arlo cameras use a proprietary wireless protocol (not standard Wi-Fi) to communicate with the base station. This is called Arlo SecureLink. Newer hubs (like the SmartHub) have better range—up to 300 feet (90 meters) line-of-sight, compared to 150 feet (45 meters) for older base stations.

Tip: If you’re mixing cameras, place the base station centrally. My backyard camera (original Arlo) sometimes loses signal because it’s near the edge of the VMB4000’s range. I added an Arlo Pro 4 (which has a stronger signal) as a “relay” camera, and now the connection is rock-solid.

Feature Limitations When Mixing Cameras

While the app unifies your view, not all features are shared. Here’s what you might miss:

• 24/7 Recording: Only available on Pro base stations with a paid Arlo Secure plan. Original Arlo cameras can’t use this, even if connected to a Pro hub.
• Advanced AI Detection: Pro 2 and newer models detect people, packages, and animals. Older cameras only trigger on motion (any movement).
• Local Storage: Pro hubs support microSD cards for local backups. Original Arlo hubs do not.
• Video Quality: Original Arlo: 720p. Pro 2: 1080p. Pro 3/4: 2K. Mixing means you’ll see varying quality in the same app feed.

Workaround: Use activity zones to focus on key areas with newer cameras, and use older ones for broad coverage.

Step-by-Step Guide: Setting Up Mixed Arlo Systems

Ready to combine your Arlo cameras? Follow these steps for a smooth setup.

Step 1: Check Your Base Station

Identify your current hub:

• Original base station (VMB3000): White, small, with 4 indicator lights.
• Arlo Pro base station (VMB4000): Black, larger, with 5 lights.
• Arlo SmartHub (VMB5000/VMB4540): Black, with a status ring light.

If you’re using a VMB3000 and want to add a Pro camera, upgrade to VMB4000 or VMB5000. There’s no workaround.

Step 2: Update Firmware

Before adding any camera:

• Open the Arlo app.
• Go to Settings > My Devices > [Your Base Station].
• Tap “Check for Updates.”

I once skipped this step and spent an hour troubleshooting why my new Pro 4 wouldn’t connect. Updating the hub fixed it instantly.

Step 3: Add Cameras in the App

For each camera:

1. Tap “Add Device” in the app.
2. Select the camera model (even if it’s an older one).
3. Follow the prompts: press the sync button on the camera, scan the QR code, etc.
4. Name the camera (e.g., “Front Door – Arlo Pro”).

Pro tip: Label cameras clearly. I once had three “Backyard” cameras with no model names. It was chaos during troubleshooting.

Step 4: Configure Settings

After setup:

• Set activity zones (especially for older cameras with basic motion detection).
• Enable/disable audio (original Arlo has no mic).
• Adjust video quality (newer cameras can downscale to 1080p for smoother streaming).

Example: I set my original Arlo (720p) to “Low” quality in the app. This saves bandwidth when I’m checking feeds remotely.

Step 5: Test and Monitor

Walk in front of each camera to trigger motion. Check:

• Live view latency (should be under 2 seconds).
• Alert speed (should arrive within 5 seconds).
• Recording quality (no choppiness).

If a camera fails, try re-syncing or moving it closer to the hub.

Data Table: Arlo Camera Compatibility Overview

Camera Model	Compatible Base Stations	Max Video Quality	Key Features	Works with Arlo Pro Hub?
Original Arlo (VMS3030)	VMB3000, VMB4000, VMB5000	720p	Motion detection, 2-way audio (mic not on camera)	Yes (with limitations)
Arlo Pro (VMC4030P)	VMB4000, VMB5000	1080p	24/7 recording (with plan), local storage	Yes
Arlo Pro 2 (VMC4030P-2)	VMB4000, VMB5000	1080p	Person/vehicle detection, siren	Yes
Arlo Pro 3 (VMC4040P)	VMB5000, VMB4540	2K HDR	Color night vision, spotlight	Yes (with SmartHub)
Arlo Pro 4 (VMC4041P)	VMB5000, VMB4540	2K HDR	USB-C charging, wider field of view	Yes (with SmartHub)
Arlo Ultra (VMC5040)	VMB5000, VMB4540	4K	Auto-zoom tracking, premium audio	Yes (with SmartHub)

Note: “Works with Arlo Pro Hub?” refers to the VMB4000. For VMB5000/SmartHub, see “Compatible Base Stations.”

Final Thoughts: Maximizing Your Arlo Investment

So, can Arlo cameras be used with Arlo Pro? Absolutely—but it’s not a one-size-fits-all answer. The key is understanding your base station and the features you need. If you’re starting fresh, I’d recommend investing in an Arlo SmartHub (VMB5000). It’s the most future-proof option, supporting every camera from original Arlo to Pro 4 and Ultra.

For existing users, here’s my advice:

• Already have a VMB4000? Add original Arlo or Pro/Pro 2 cameras freely. Skip older base stations.
• Want 24/7 recording or AI detection? Upgrade to a Pro or SmartHub and pair it with newer cameras.
• On a budget? Mix older cameras for wide coverage and use one newer camera (like a Pro 2) for high-traffic areas.

Remember, Arlo’s strength isn’t just in individual cameras—it’s in the ecosystem. By mixing models wisely, you can build a system that’s both powerful and cost-effective. I’ve saved hundreds by reusing my original Arlo cameras for basic monitoring while using Pro 4s for critical spots like the front door and garage.

And if you’re ever unsure? The Arlo app’s “Help” section has detailed compatibility charts, and their support team is surprisingly responsive. Just don’t try to force a Pro camera onto an old base station—like I did. Learn from my mistakes!

In the end, your home security should be as flexible as your life. With Arlo’s mix-and-match approach, you can adapt your system over time, adding cameras as needs change. That’s the real power of the Arlo ecosystem.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Arlo cameras be used with Arlo Pro systems?

Yes, most Arlo cameras are compatible with Arlo Pro systems, as they share the same ecosystem and base station (e.g., Arlo Pro 2, Pro 3, or Pro 4). However, newer models may offer enhanced features not supported by older base stations. Always check compatibility on Arlo’s official website.

Do I need an Arlo Pro base station to use Arlo cameras?

Not necessarily. While Arlo Pro cameras require a Pro base station, other Arlo cameras (like Arlo Ultra or Essential) may work with their own hubs or standalone via Wi-Fi. Mixing cameras with a Pro base station is possible if they’re designed for it.

Can I mix Arlo Pro and non-Pro cameras in one setup?

Yes, you can combine Arlo Pro and select non-Pro cameras (e.g., Arlo Ultra) in the same system if they’re compatible with the same base station or app. Ensure all devices are linked to your Arlo account for seamless management.

Will older Arlo cameras work with the latest Arlo Pro models?

Generally, older Arlo cameras (e.g., Arlo Pro 2) will work with newer Arlo Pro systems, but you may miss out on advanced features like 2K/4K resolution or color night vision. Verify backward compatibility for your specific models.

Can Arlo Pro cameras connect to a non-Pro base station?

No, Arlo Pro cameras require a Pro-compatible base station (e.g., VMB4000 or VMB5000) for full functionality. Non-Pro hubs lack the necessary protocols to support Pro-specific features like 1080p HDR or extended battery life.

Is there a limit to how many Arlo cameras I can use with Arlo Pro?

Yes, the number of cameras supported depends on your base station model. For example, the Arlo Pro base station (VMB4000) supports up to 5 cameras, while newer models (VMB5000) may support more. Check your hub’s specifications for exact limits.