Can Arlo Cameras Connect to Arlo Pro Base Station Explained

Yes, most Arlo cameras can connect to the Arlo Pro Base Station, ensuring seamless integration and enhanced functionality across the ecosystem. This compatibility extends to popular models like the Arlo Pro 2, Pro 3, and Ultra, allowing users to centralize monitoring, reduce Wi-Fi congestion, and access local storage via the base station. A simple sync process makes setup quick and reliable.

Key Takeaways

• Compatibility confirmed: Most Arlo cameras work with the Arlo Pro base station.
• Check model numbers: Verify camera and base station compatibility before setup.
• Same network required: Both devices must connect to the same Wi-Fi network.
• Firmware updates: Ensure latest firmware for seamless integration and performance.
• Secure pairing: Use the Arlo app to safely link cameras to the base station.
• Expand coverage: Add multiple cameras to one base station for wider monitoring.

Understanding the Arlo Ecosystem: A Brief Overview

When I first set up my home security system, I was overwhelmed by the number of options available. I wanted something that was easy to install, reliable, and scalable—something that wouldn’t require a degree in engineering to figure out. That’s when I discovered Arlo. Their wireless cameras promised flexibility, and their base stations offered a centralized hub to manage everything. But as I dug deeper, one question kept coming up: Can Arlo cameras connect to Arlo Pro base station? It sounds simple, but the answer isn’t always straightforward, especially with so many models on the market.

Arlo, a brand under Netgear, has built a reputation for user-friendly, high-definition security cameras. From the original Arlo Pro to the latest Arlo Ultra 2, the product line has evolved rapidly. Each camera comes with different specs, features, and connectivity options. The base station—often called the “hub”—acts as the brain of the system. It connects to your Wi-Fi, stores recordings (if you have local storage), and manages communication between your cameras and the Arlo app. But not all base stations are created equal, and compatibility between cameras and hubs can be tricky. In this post, I’ll walk you through the ins and outs of connecting Arlo cameras to the Arlo Pro base station, sharing my real-world experiences, tips, and even a few hiccups along the way.

Compatibility Between Arlo Cameras and the Arlo Pro Base Station

Which Cameras Work with the Arlo Pro Base Station?

The short answer is: most Arlo cameras can connect to the Arlo Pro base station, but there are exceptions. The Arlo Pro base station (often called the VMB4000 or VMB4500) was originally designed for the Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2 cameras. However, due to its robust design and support for Arlo’s proprietary wireless protocol (2.4 GHz), it’s also compatible with several other models. Here’s a breakdown:

• Arlo Pro – Fully compatible. This was the original pairing.
• Arlo Pro 2 – Works perfectly. Same wireless protocol and firmware support.
• Arlo Pro 3 – Compatible, but with limitations (more on this later).
• Arlo Pro 4 – Yes, it works, but you’ll miss out on some Pro 4-specific features like color night vision and spotlight if you don’t have a newer base station.
• Arlo Go – Compatible, but only if you’re using it in Wi-Fi mode (not cellular).
• Arlo Baby – Works, but designed more for indoor use.
• Arlo Ultra / Ultra 2 – Not recommended. These cameras are designed to work best with the Arlo SmartHub or the newer VMB5000 base station. While they can technically connect to the Pro base station, you’ll lose access to 4K video, advanced AI detection, and dual-band Wi-Fi support.

From my experience, the Pro base station handles Arlo Pro, Pro 2, and even Pro 3 cameras like a champ. I’ve run three Pro 2 cameras and one Pro 3 on the same base station for over a year without any issues. The Pro 3’s 2K HDR video streams smoothly, and the motion detection works reliably.

Why Compatibility Isn’t Always Plug-and-Play

Here’s where things get a bit technical. Arlo cameras use a proprietary wireless protocol between the camera and the base station. This protocol ensures a strong, low-latency connection—better than relying solely on your home Wi-Fi. The Arlo Pro base station uses this protocol, but newer cameras (like the Pro 4 and Ultra) have enhanced features that require more bandwidth or different hardware support.

For example, the Arlo Pro 4 has a built-in spotlight and color night vision. These features rely on the camera’s onboard processing and a direct, high-speed connection to the base station. The Pro base station, while capable, doesn’t have the processing power or firmware to fully support these features. So, when you connect a Pro 4 to a Pro base station, you’ll get basic functionality—motion alerts, 2K video, and cloud storage—but the spotlight and color night vision won’t work as intended.

Another issue I ran into: firmware updates. Newer cameras often require base station firmware updates to function properly. If your Pro base station hasn’t been updated in a while, it might not recognize a Pro 4 or Pro 3 camera during setup. Always check for firmware updates in the Arlo app before pairing new devices.

Step-by-Step Guide: Connecting Arlo Cameras to the Arlo Pro Base Station

Pre-Setup Checklist

Before you start, make sure you have:

• The Arlo Pro base station (VMB4000 or VMB4500)
• Power adapter and Ethernet cable for the base station
• Arlo camera(s) with charged batteries (if battery-powered)
• Arlo app installed on your smartphone (iOS or Android)
• Stable Wi-Fi network with 2.4 GHz support

I learned the hard way that trying to set up a camera with a 50% charged battery is a recipe for frustration. Always charge your cameras fully before pairing.

Connecting the Base Station

1. Plug in the base station. Connect the power adapter and plug it into an outlet. Use the Ethernet cable to connect the base station to your router. This ensures a stable, wired connection for your security system.
2. Wait for the status lights. The base station has three lights: Power, Internet, and Camera. The Power and Internet lights should turn solid green. If the Internet light is blinking or amber, check your Ethernet connection.
3. Open the Arlo app. If you’re setting up a new system, tap “Add New System.” If you’re adding cameras to an existing system, go to “Settings” > “My Devices” > “Add Device.”
4. Select “Arlo Base Station.” The app will guide you through naming your base station and connecting it to your Wi-Fi (if you’re not using Ethernet).

Pairing Your Camera

1. Press the sync button on the base station. This is usually located on the back or side. Hold it for 2 seconds until the Camera light starts blinking.
2. Turn on the camera. For battery-powered models, press and hold the power button. For wired models, plug them in.
3. Press the sync button on the camera. This is typically on the back or bottom. Hold it for 2 seconds. The camera’s LED will blink blue.
4. Wait for the connection. The base station’s Camera light should turn solid green, and the camera’s LED should turn solid blue. This usually takes 30-60 seconds.
5. Follow in-app instructions. The Arlo app will detect the camera and prompt you to name it, assign a location, and set up motion zones.

Pro tip: If the camera doesn’t connect, try resetting it. Press and hold the sync button on the camera for 10 seconds until the LED blinks amber. Then repeat the pairing steps.

Troubleshooting Common Connection Issues

• Camera not detected? Make sure you’re within 300 feet of the base station (without obstructions). Thick walls, metal objects, or interference from other electronics can weaken the signal.
• Intermittent connection? Check for firmware updates on both the base station and camera. Outdated firmware is a common culprit.
• “Camera Offline” error? Restart the base station by unplugging it for 10 seconds. Also, try removing and reinserting the camera’s battery.

I once had a camera that wouldn’t stay connected. After hours of troubleshooting, I realized it was because the base station was placed in a metal cabinet—blocking the wireless signal. Moving it to an open shelf fixed the issue instantly.

Performance and Limitations: What to Expect

Video Quality and Storage

The Arlo Pro base station supports up to 1080p HD video for most compatible cameras (Pro, Pro 2, Pro 3). If you’re using a Pro 3, you’ll get 2K HDR, which looks stunning during the day. However, the base station doesn’t support 4K, so Ultra cameras are limited to 1080p when connected to it.

Storage options:

• Cloud storage: Requires a subscription (Arlo Smart plan). Offers 30-day video history, AI detection, and activity zones.
• Local storage: The Pro base station has a USB port. You can plug in a USB drive (up to 2TB) for free, continuous recording. I use a 1TB drive and get about 3 weeks of footage from four cameras.

One thing to note: local storage doesn’t support AI detection or person/package alerts. Those features are only available with a paid Arlo Smart plan. So, if you’re using local storage, you’ll rely on motion detection only.

Range and Reliability

The wireless range between the base station and cameras is advertised as up to 300 feet (90 meters) in open areas. In real-world use, I’ve found that 200-250 feet is more realistic, especially if there are walls or obstacles. My backyard camera, which is about 220 feet from the base station (with two walls in between), works reliably—but I had to adjust the angle to avoid direct interference from the garage door opener.

For larger properties, consider using an Arlo Pro Repeater (sold separately). It extends the wireless range by up to 300 feet. I added one to my system and was able to connect a camera at the far end of my property without signal drops.

Latency and Responsiveness

Latency—the delay between motion detection and the alert on your phone—is generally low with the Pro base station. I average about 2-3 seconds, which is fast enough to catch a delivery person or a passing car. However, if your internet connection is slow or unstable, latency can increase.

Another thing: the base station doesn’t support dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz). It only works on 2.4 GHz, which is more crowded but has better range. If you’re in a dense neighborhood with lots of Wi-Fi networks, you might experience interference. In that case, try changing your Wi-Fi channel using your router’s settings.

Upgrading Your System: When to Consider a Newer Base Station

Signs It’s Time to Upgrade

The Arlo Pro base station is a solid choice for basic to mid-level setups. But if you’re planning to expand your system or want access to newer features, it might be time to upgrade. Here are some signs:

• You’re adding Ultra or Pro 4 cameras. These cameras are optimized for the Arlo SmartHub or VMB5000 base station. You’ll get the full feature set, including 4K video, AI detection, and color night vision.
• You need better Wi-Fi support. The SmartHub supports dual-band Wi-Fi, which means faster uploads and better performance in crowded networks.
• You want advanced local storage. The VMB5000 supports encrypted local storage and integration with Arlo’s Home Hub for multi-system management.

I recently upgraded to the VMB5000 because I added two Arlo Ultra 2 cameras. The difference in video quality is night and day—literally. The 4K footage with color night vision is so clear, I can read license plates from 50 feet away.

Can You Mix Base Stations?

Yes, but with limitations. Arlo allows you to have multiple base stations in one account. For example, you could have:

• An Arlo Pro base station for older cameras
• A SmartHub for newer cameras

This is great if you’re transitioning from an older system. However, each base station operates independently. You can’t share local storage or settings between them. Also, the Arlo app will show all cameras, but you’ll need to manage two separate hubs.

I tried this setup briefly, but it felt clunky. Eventually, I migrated all my cameras to the SmartHub for a unified experience. If you’re starting fresh, I’d recommend investing in a newer base station from the get-go.

Real-World Scenarios and User Tips

Small Home or Apartment Setup

For a 1-2 bedroom home or apartment, the Arlo Pro base station with 2-3 Pro or Pro 2 cameras is a perfect fit. Here’s how I set mine up:

• Front door: Arlo Pro 2 (1080p, motion-activated recording)
• Backyard: Arlo Pro 3 (2K HDR, local storage)
• Garage: Arlo Pro (battery-powered, motion alerts only)

I use local storage for the backyard camera because it records continuously. The front door and garage cameras use cloud storage for AI detection (e.g., “person detected” vs. “animal detected”).

Large Property or Multi-Camera Setup

For a larger property (e.g., a house with a yard, driveway, and detached garage), consider:

• Using an Arlo Pro Repeater to extend the wireless range
• Adding a mix of wired and battery-powered cameras
• Using a 2TB USB drive for local storage (you’ll need it!)

I once helped a friend set up a 6-camera system for their ranch. We used two Arlo Pro repeaters and a 2TB drive. The base station handled all six cameras without lag, but we had to carefully position the repeaters to avoid dead zones.

Energy Efficiency and Battery Life

Battery-powered Arlo cameras (Pro, Pro 2, Pro 3) last 3-6 months on a single charge, depending on usage. To maximize battery life:

• Use “Optimized” video quality in the app (instead of “Best”)
• Adjust motion detection sensitivity (lower sensitivity = fewer recordings)
• Use activity zones to ignore high-traffic areas (e.g., trees swaying in the wind)

I once forgot to charge a camera for 8 months—it finally died after recording over 2,000 motion events. Lesson learned: set a monthly reminder to check battery levels!

Final Thoughts: Is the Arlo Pro Base Station Right for You?

After years of using Arlo systems, I can confidently say that the Arlo Pro base station is a reliable, cost-effective choice for most homeowners. It’s not perfect—it lacks support for 4K and advanced AI features—but it delivers where it counts: stability, ease of use, and solid performance for 1080p and 2K cameras.

If you’re using Arlo Pro, Pro 2, or Pro 3 cameras, the Pro base station is a no-brainer. It’s plug-and-play, affordable, and works great with local storage. But if you’re investing in newer models like the Pro 4 or Ultra, consider upgrading to a SmartHub or VMB5000. The extra features are worth it.

Remember: the key to a successful setup is planning. Think about your property layout, camera placement, and whether you need local or cloud storage. And always, always keep your firmware updated. A little maintenance goes a long way in keeping your system running smoothly.

So, can Arlo cameras connect to the Arlo Pro base station? Yes—most of them can, and they do it well. Just make sure you’re pairing the right tools for the job. Your home’s security is worth the effort.

Camera Model	Compatible with Arlo Pro Base Station?	Max Video Quality	Key Features Supported	Recommended?
Arlo Pro	Yes	1080p	Motion detection, local/cloud storage	Yes
Arlo Pro 2	Yes	1080p	Motion detection, local/cloud storage, night vision	Yes
Arlo Pro 3	Yes	2K HDR	Motion detection, local/cloud storage, color night vision (limited)	Yes
Arlo Pro 4	Yes	2K	Motion detection, local/cloud storage (spotlight/night vision not supported)	Only if no other option
Arlo Ultra / Ultra 2	Technically yes	1080p (downgraded)	Motion detection only (4K, AI, night vision not supported)	No

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Arlo cameras connect to Arlo Pro base station?

Yes, most Arlo cameras are compatible with the Arlo Pro base station, including the Arlo Pro, Pro 2, Pro 3, and Pro 4 models. This allows for centralized management and enhanced connectivity through the base station’s hub.

Is the Arlo Pro base station required for Arlo cameras to work?

No, the Arlo Pro base station is not mandatory for all Arlo cameras. Many newer models connect directly to Wi-Fi, but using the base station can improve signal strength and enable local storage options.

Which Arlo cameras are compatible with the Arlo Pro base station?

The Arlo Pro base station supports Arlo Pro, Pro 2, Pro 3, Pro 4, Ultra, and Go cameras. However, always check the official Arlo compatibility chart to confirm your specific camera model.

Can I mix different Arlo cameras with the Arlo Pro base station?

Yes, the Arlo Pro base station allows you to mix and match compatible camera models, such as pairing an Arlo Pro 3 with an Arlo Ultra. This flexibility helps customize your security system to fit your needs.

Does connecting Arlo cameras to Arlo Pro base station improve performance?

Connecting Arlo cameras to the Arlo Pro base station can improve reliability and reduce Wi-Fi congestion, especially for cameras located far from your router. The base station acts as a dedicated hub for stronger, more stable connections.

Can older Arlo cameras connect to the Arlo Pro base station?

Most older Arlo cameras, like the original Arlo and Arlo Q, are not compatible with the Arlo Pro base station. Only select models designed for Pro base stations will work—check Arlo’s website for a full compatibility list.