Can Arlo Pro 2 Connect to Aro Cameras Here Is What You Need to Know

The Arlo Pro 2 cannot connect to Aro cameras due to incompatible protocols and proprietary software systems. Arlo and Aro operate on entirely different ecosystems, making direct integration or cross-compatibility impossible without third-party workarounds. For seamless connectivity, stick to devices within the same brand family.

Key Takeaways

• Arlo Pro 2 is not compatible with Aro cameras due to different ecosystems.
• Use Arlo base stations for seamless integration with other Arlo devices.
• Aro cameras require their own hub; no support for Arlo Pro 2 connections.
• Check firmware updates to ensure optimal performance within the Arlo system.
• Stick to one ecosystem to avoid connectivity issues between brands.

Can Arlo Pro 2 Connect to Aro Cameras? Here’s What You Need to Know

So, you’ve got an Arlo Pro 2 system set up around your home—maybe one camera by the front door, another in the backyard, and a third near the garage. It’s working well, and you love the peace of mind it brings. But now, a friend mentions they’re using “Aro cameras,” and you’re curious: can your Arlo Pro 2 connect to Aro cameras? Or, more accurately, are they even compatible?

Let’s be honest—when it comes to home security tech, the jargon can get confusing fast. “Arlo,” “Aro,” “Pro,” “Essential,” “Ultra”—it’s easy to mix them up. You might even be wondering if Aro is just a nickname for Arlo, or if it’s a completely different brand. Spoiler: it’s not. But that doesn’t mean the confusion isn’t real. I remember setting up my first Arlo system and accidentally searching for “Aro cameras” on Google, only to find nothing useful. After hours of digging (and a few dead-end forums), I realized the truth: Aro cameras aren’t a real product line. But that didn’t stop me from asking the same question you’re asking now: Can Arlo Pro 2 connect to Aro cameras?

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything—from what “Aro” actually refers to (spoiler: it’s not a camera brand), to whether Arlo Pro 2 can work with other Arlo models, and how to expand your system the right way. Whether you’re upgrading, expanding, or just curious, this post is for you.

Understanding the Arlo Ecosystem: What “Aro” Actually Means

Is “Aro” a Real Camera Brand?

Nope. “Aro” is not a brand, a model, or a product line. It’s actually a mishearing or misspelling of “Arlo.” Think of it like when someone says “I have a Fitbit” but actually means “Fitness tracker.” In this case, “Aro” is just a phonetic mix-up of “Arlo.” It’s not uncommon—especially when people are talking fast or typing quickly on their phones.

I’ve seen this confusion pop up in Facebook groups, Reddit threads, and even in customer service chats. Someone will say, “I have an Aro camera,” and others jump in trying to help with compatibility. But once you realize it’s just “Arlo,” the whole conversation shifts. So if you’ve been searching for “Aro cameras,” you’re not alone—but you’re also not going to find a separate brand to connect to your Arlo Pro 2.

Why the Confusion Exists

The confusion comes from a few sources:

• Similar-sounding names: “Arlo” and “Aro” sound nearly identical when spoken aloud, especially over the phone or in noisy environments.
• Third-party accessories: Some companies sell mounts, skins, or charging docks branded as “Aro,” but these are just aftermarket accessories for Arlo cameras.
• Typos and autocorrect: Autocorrect loves to turn “Arlo” into “Aro” or even “Arrow” on some devices.

For example, I once ordered a “universal Aro mount” online, only to get a generic plastic bracket that fit my Arlo Pro 2. The product listing used “Aro” in the title, but the description clearly said “compatible with Arlo Pro series.” It was a marketing trick—not a new camera brand.

Bottom line: There are no “Aro cameras” to connect to your Arlo Pro 2. But that doesn’t mean you can’t expand your system. You just need to know which Arlo cameras work together.

Can Arlo Pro 2 Connect to Other Arlo Cameras? (Yes, But With Rules)

Compatibility Within the Arlo Lineup

Here’s the good news: Arlo Pro 2 can connect to other Arlo cameras—but not all of them. Arlo uses a hub-based system (called the Arlo SmartHub or base station), and compatibility depends on which hub you’re using and which cameras are designed to work with it.

Let’s break it down:

• Arlo Pro 2: Uses the Arlo SmartHub (VMB4000 or VMB4500). It’s a Wi-Fi and Ethernet-connected base station that acts as the brain of your system.

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• Compatible models: Most Arlo cameras released between 2016 and 2020 can work with the same hub, including:
  • Arlo Pro
  • Arlo Pro 2
  • Arlo Pro 3
  • Arlo Pro 4 (with firmware update)
  • Arlo Ultra
  • Arlo Essential Spotlight
  • Arlo Go (cellular, but same hub)

So yes—your Arlo Pro 2 can “connect” to other Arlo cameras in the sense that they can all live under the same SmartHub and appear in the same Arlo app. Think of it like a family: different members, different looks, but they all speak the same language (the Arlo protocol).

How the Connection Works (No, It’s Not Bluetooth or Wi-Fi Direct)

You might be wondering: “Do I just plug in a new camera and it syncs?” Not quite. Here’s how it actually works:

1. SmartHub as the central hub: All compatible Arlo cameras connect to the SmartHub, not directly to each other. The hub handles communication, power management, and cloud storage.
2. Camera-to-hub pairing: When you add a new camera, you press a button on the hub and then sync the camera. It’s a one-time setup.
3. Same Arlo app: Once paired, all cameras—regardless of model—appear in the Arlo app on your phone or tablet.

For example, I added an Arlo Essential Spotlight to my existing Arlo Pro 2 system. I opened the Arlo app, tapped “Add Device,” selected “Essential,” and followed the on-screen steps. The hub recognized the new camera within 30 seconds. No extra apps, no Wi-Fi passwords, no hassle.

Pro tip: Always check the camera’s packaging or the Arlo website for “Works with Arlo SmartHub” before buying. Some newer models (like Arlo Wired or Arlo Floodlight) use a different system (Wi-Fi direct to router) and won’t work with older hubs.

What About Older or Newer Models?

Let’s get specific:

• Arlo (original, 2014): Compatible with VMB4000 hub, but limited features. No 2K video, no siren.
• Arlo Pro (2016): Fully compatible with Pro 2 hub. Same battery, same mount, same app.
• Arlo Pro 3/4: Works with VMB4500 hub (same as Pro 2). You can mix Pro 2 and Pro 3 cameras.
• Arlo Ultra: Requires VMB5000 hub (different from Pro 2’s VMB4000). Not compatible unless you upgrade your hub.
• Arlo Essential (Wi-Fi): Works with VMB4000/4500. Great for indoor use.
• Arlo Wired (2023): Connects directly to router. Does not use a hub. Not compatible with Pro 2 hub.

So while you can’t connect to “Aro cameras,” you can mix and match most Arlo models from the Pro and Essential lines—just make sure they’re hub-based.

Expanding Your System: Practical Tips for Mixing Arlo Cameras

How to Add a New Camera to Your Arlo Pro 2 System

Let’s say you want to add an Arlo Pro 3 to your existing Pro 2 setup. Here’s how to do it step by step:

1. Check your hub model: Open the Arlo app > Settings > My Devices > Base Station. Look for “VMB4000” or “VMB4500.”
2. Buy a compatible camera: Look for “Works with Arlo SmartHub” on the box or product page.
3. Charge the new camera fully (takes about 3–4 hours).
4. Open the Arlo app and tap “Add Device.”
5. Select the camera model (e.g., “Arlo Pro 3”).
6. Press the sync button on the SmartHub (small button on the side).
7. Press and hold the sync button on the new camera until the LED blinks blue.
8. Wait for the app to confirm pairing (usually takes 1–2 minutes).

I did this last winter when I added an Arlo Essential to my garage. The whole process took under 10 minutes. The best part? The new camera appeared in the same live feed as my Pro 2—no extra logins, no new accounts.

Managing Mixed Camera Types in the App

Once you have multiple camera types, the Arlo app handles them seamlessly. Here’s what to expect:

• Unified live view: All cameras appear on the home screen. Tap any to see live feed.
• Model-specific settings: Each camera has its own settings tab. For example, Pro 3 has 2K HDR; Pro 2 has 1080p with night vision.
• Motion zones: You can set custom zones for each camera, even if they’re different models.
• Activity notifications: All alerts come through the same app. You can filter by camera, type (person, vehicle, package), or time.

Tip: Rename your cameras in the app (e.g., “Front Door – Pro 2,” “Backyard – Pro 3”) to avoid confusion. I once spent 10 minutes checking the “Front Yard” camera only to realize I’d renamed it “Driveway” months ago!

When Mixing Cameras Isn’t Ideal

While mixing is possible, there are a few downsides:

• Different video quality: Pro 2 records 1080p; Pro 3 does 2K. Side-by-side, the difference is noticeable.
• Battery life varies: Pro 2 batteries last 3–6 months; Pro 3 lasts 4–6 months (but drains faster with 2K).
• Mounting differences: Pro 3 uses a magnetic mount; Pro 2 uses a twist-lock. You’ll need different mounts.
• Firmware updates: Some features (like color night vision) are only available on newer models.

So while you can mix, ask yourself: Should you? If you want a uniform look and consistent features, consider upgrading all cameras to the same model. But if you’re on a budget, mixing is a smart way to expand.

Common Compatibility Issues (And How to Fix Them)

“My New Camera Won’t Sync to the Hub”

This is the #1 issue people face. Here’s how to troubleshoot:

• Check the hub model: Older VMB3000 hubs won’t support Pro 3 or newer. You need VMB4000/4500.
• Reset the camera: Press and hold the sync button for 10 seconds until the LED flashes amber.
• Restart the hub: Unplug it for 30 seconds, then plug it back in.
• Update firmware: Go to Settings > My Devices > Base Station > Check for Updates.
• Distance matters: Keep the camera within 30 feet of the hub during pairing.

I once had a Pro 3 that refused to sync. After resetting both camera and hub, it worked. The issue? The hub hadn’t updated its firmware in over a year.

“The App Shows ‘Camera Offline’”

Even after pairing, cameras can go offline. Common causes:

• Low battery: Arlo cameras send low-battery alerts, but sometimes they disconnect first.
• Hub internet issues: If the hub loses Wi-Fi, all cameras go offline.
• Interference: Other Wi-Fi networks or metal objects can block the signal.

Fix: Move the camera closer to the hub, charge it, or switch the hub to Ethernet (more stable than Wi-Fi).

“I Can’t See the New Camera in the App”

This usually means the camera paired to a different account. Fix it by:

• Logging out of the Arlo app and back in.
• Checking if the camera appears under “Shared Devices” (if someone else added it).
• Contacting Arlo support to transfer ownership (if you bought it used).

Alternatives to “Aro” Cameras: Expanding Your Security System

Using Non-Arlo Cameras with Your Arlo System

Since there are no “Aro” cameras, what if you want to add a non-Arlo camera (like Ring, Blink, or Eufy) to your setup?

Unfortunately, Arlo Pro 2 cannot directly connect to non-Arlo cameras. The Arlo app only supports Arlo devices. But there are workarounds:

• Use a multi-camera app: Apps like Blue Iris, Synology Surveillance Station, or Home Assistant can pull feeds from multiple brands.
• Smart home hubs: Apple HomeKit, Google Home, or Amazon Alexa can display feeds from different cameras (but not in one unified view).
• Cloud recording services: Some third-party services (like SecuritySpy) support RTSP feeds, but most Arlo cameras don’t offer this without jailbreaking.

For example, I use Home Assistant to show my Arlo Pro 2, a Ring Doorbell, and a Wyze Cam in one dashboard. It’s not perfect—no motion sync, no unified alerts—but it works for basic monitoring.

When to Consider a Different System

If you need true cross-brand compatibility, consider:

• Eufy Security: Works with HomeKit, Google, Alexa, and has local storage.
• Ring Alarm Pro: Supports Ring, Arlo, and other brands via Alexa.
• Reolink: Offers hybrid systems with NVRs that support multiple camera types.

But if you’re happy with Arlo’s features (like free 7-day cloud storage, easy app, and reliable alerts), stick with Arlo cameras. Mixing models is better than mixing brands.

Data Table: Arlo Camera Compatibility Guide

Camera Model	Required Hub	Works with Arlo Pro 2 Hub?	Video Quality	Key Feature
Arlo (Original)	VMB4000	Yes	720p	Basic motion detection
Arlo Pro	VMB4000	Yes	1080p	Rechargeable battery
Arlo Pro 2	VMB4000/4500	Yes (native)	1080p	2-way audio, siren
Arlo Pro 3	VMB4500	Yes	2K	Color night vision
Arlo Pro 4	VMB4500	Yes (with update)	2K	No hub required (Wi-Fi)
Arlo Ultra	VMB5000	No	4K	Auto-zoom tracking
Arlo Essential	VMB4000/4500	Yes	1080p	Affordable, no hub (Wi-Fi)
Arlo Wired	None (Wi-Fi)	No	1080p	No battery, always on

This table should help you decide which cameras to add—or avoid—based on your hub.

Final Thoughts: Your Arlo Pro 2 Has Room to Grow

So, can Arlo Pro 2 connect to Aro cameras? No—because “Aro” isn’t a real camera brand. But can it connect to other Arlo cameras? Absolutely. As long as they’re compatible with your SmartHub (VMB4000 or VMB4500), you can mix and match Pro, Essential, and even some newer models.

Think of your Arlo system like a garden. The Pro 2 is the first plant you put in. Over time, you can add new ones—different colors, different sizes—but they all need the same soil (the hub) to grow. You don’t need to start over. You just need to know which plants work together.

My advice? Start small. Add one new camera. Test it. See how it feels. Rename it. Play with the settings. If it works, add another. If not, return it. There’s no rush. And if you ever feel stuck, the Arlo community (and their support team) is surprisingly helpful.

At the end of the day, home security isn’t about having the fanciest tech—it’s about feeling safe. Whether you’re using one camera or ten, the goal is the same: peace of mind. And with the right mix of Arlo cameras, you can get there—no “Aro” required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Arlo Pro 2 connect to Aro cameras?

The Arlo Pro 2 cannot connect to or integrate with Aro cameras, as they are separate brands with distinct ecosystems. Arlo devices only support integration with other Arlo products or compatible smart home platforms.

Is there a way to link Arlo Pro 2 with Aro cameras for unified monitoring?

No, there is no official method to link Arlo Pro 2 and Aro cameras due to incompatible software and hardware. Each system requires its own app and account for monitoring and management.

Why can’t Arlo Pro 2 connect to Aro cameras even though they look similar?

Despite visual similarities, Arlo Pro 2 and Aro cameras use different communication protocols and cloud services. This technical incompatibility prevents cross-brand connectivity or shared access.

Can I use one app to view both Arlo Pro 2 and Aro cameras?

No, you’ll need to use the Arlo app for Arlo Pro 2 cameras and the Aro app for Aro cameras separately. Third-party apps or hubs won’t merge feeds due to brand-specific encryption and APIs.

Will Aro cameras work with Arlo Pro 2’s base station or subscription?

Aro cameras are not designed to work with the Arlo Pro 2 base station or Arlo’s subscription plans. Each brand uses its own hardware and service infrastructure, which are not interchangeable.

Are there any workarounds to connect Arlo Pro 2 to Aro cameras?

There are no reliable workarounds to connect these systems, as both brands use closed, proprietary technology. For seamless integration, stick to cameras within the same ecosystem.