Can Different Arlo Cameras Work Together A Complete Guide

Yes, different Arlo cameras can work together seamlessly within the same ecosystem, allowing you to mix models like Arlo Pro, Ultra, and Essential for comprehensive home security. They sync through the Arlo SmartHub or base station, enabling unified live viewing, alerts, and cloud storage—maximizing coverage without compatibility headaches.

Key Takeaways

• Mix and match: Most Arlo cameras work together seamlessly in one ecosystem.
• Use Arlo SmartHub: Ensures compatibility across different camera generations.
• Check app support: All cameras must be supported by the same Arlo app version.
• Unified alerts: Receive notifications for all cameras in one centralized feed.
• Customize per camera: Set unique settings for each camera type in multi-cam setups.
• Verify Wi-Fi strength: Strong signal is critical for mixed camera reliability.

Can Different Arlo Cameras Work Together? A Complete Guide

Imagine this: You’ve got an Arlo Pro 4 guarding your front door, an older Arlo Q keeping an eye on the nursery, and you’re thinking about adding an Arlo Ultra 2 to the backyard. You love the idea of a fully connected smart home, but you’re wondering—can different Arlo cameras work together? Will they play nice in the same ecosystem, or will you end up juggling three different apps like a stressed-out circus performer?

You’re not alone. Many homeowners start their smart security journey with one Arlo camera, then slowly expand. But as new models roll out with better resolution, AI detection, or solar charging, compatibility questions pop up. The good news? Yes, different Arlo cameras can work together—but it’s not always plug-and-play. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know: how Arlo’s ecosystem works, which cameras are compatible, real-world setups, and the quirks you might encounter along the way. Whether you’re mixing wired and wireless models or pairing newer AI-powered cameras with older classics, we’ll cover it all—with practical tips to make your system seamless.

Understanding Arlo’s Ecosystem: The Foundation of Compatibility

Before we dive into mixing cameras, let’s talk about the backbone of Arlo’s system: the Arlo SmartHub (or base station) and the Arlo app. These two elements are what make cross-camera collaboration possible—or sometimes, a bit tricky.

The Role of the Arlo SmartHub

Most Arlo cameras (except a few Wi-Fi-only models) connect to a SmartHub, not directly to your home Wi-Fi. The SmartHub acts like a central command center. It:

• Manages communication between cameras
• Stores local recordings (if you use an SD card)
• Provides a more stable connection than Wi-Fi alone
• Enables features like local live view during internet outages

Example: I have a mix of Arlo Pro 3 and Arlo Ultra 2 cameras. Both connect to the same Arlo SmartHub (the VMB5000). They show up together in the app, and I can create a “Whole House” activity zone that triggers recordings across all of them when motion is detected.

Wi-Fi-Only Cameras: The Exceptions

Some Arlo models, like the Arlo Essential series or the Arlo Q, connect directly to Wi-Fi and don’t need a SmartHub. But here’s the catch: they still need to be on the same Arlo account to work together.

Tip: If you’re mixing SmartHub and Wi-Fi-only cameras, make sure your Wi-Fi signal is strong where the Wi-Fi cameras are placed. I once had an Arlo Essential in the backyard that kept disconnecting because it was too far from the router. Adding a mesh extender fixed it—and suddenly, all my cameras synced perfectly.

App Integration: The Unifying Force

The Arlo app (available on iOS, Android, and web) is where the magic happens. Once cameras are added to the same account, they appear in a single dashboard. You can:

• View all live feeds in a grid
• Create unified activity zones (e.g., “Front Yard” covering Pro 4 and Essential)
• Set up shared alerts (motion, sound, person detection)
• Access cloud or local recordings in one place

Pro Insight: The app automatically groups cameras by location if you name them clearly. For instance, I labeled mine “Front Door – Pro 4,” “Backyard – Ultra 2,” and “Nursery – Q.” This makes managing them way easier than generic names like “Camera 1.”

Which Arlo Cameras Are Compatible? A Breakdown by Model

Arlo has released over 20 camera models since 2014. Not all play together, but most modern ones do—with some caveats. Here’s a rundown of which models work well together and where you might hit a snag.

SmartHub-Connected Cameras (Best for Mixing)

These cameras connect to the same SmartHub and are designed for interoperability:

• Arlo Pro 2, 3, 4, 5: All work on the same hub (VMB4000, VMB4540, VMB5000). The Pro 5S is backward compatible.
• Arlo Ultra, Ultra 2: Use the VMB5000 hub. They can coexist with Pro 4/5 cameras.
• Arlo Go, Go 2: LTE cameras that connect to the same hub. Great for remote areas.
• Arlo Video Doorbell (wired): Connects to the hub and integrates with other cameras.

Real-World Setup: My neighbor runs a Pro 3 (front), Ultra 2 (back), and Go 2 (barn). They all use the VMB5000. He set up a rule: “If Ultra 2 detects a person, turn on the Pro 3 spotlight.” It works flawlessly.

Wi-Fi-Only Cameras (Mixed Compatibility)

These don’t use a hub but can still work with hub-connected cameras:

• Arlo Essential (Indoor/Outdoor): Works with any SmartHub system. But it lacks local storage unless you use a hub.
• Arlo Q, Q+: Older models with 1080p video. They connect to Wi-Fi but integrate with the app. Note: The Q+ requires a subscription for 7-day cloud storage, while newer cameras offer 30 days free.
• Arlo Video Doorbell (wireless): Connects to Wi-Fi. Can be grouped with hub cameras for unified alerts.

Gotcha: I tried pairing an Arlo Q (2015) with a Pro 4. The Q’s 1080p looked grainy next to the Pro 4’s 2K, but the motion zones synced fine. Just don’t expect the Q to trigger the Pro 4’s spotlight—older models lack advanced automation.

Legacy Cameras (Limited or No Compatibility)

These older models have restrictions:

• Original Arlo (2014): Uses the VMB3000 hub. Can’t mix with newer hubs. If you have one, keep it on a separate account.
• Arlo Baby: Works with the app but can’t share activity zones with non-baby cameras. It’s a standalone system.

Tip: If you’re upgrading, consider phasing out legacy models. I kept my original Arlo for a year, but the battery died, and Arlo stopped supporting it. Now it’s a paperweight.

Setting Up Mixed Arlo Cameras: Step-by-Step Tips

So you’ve got a mix of Arlo models. How do you get them working together without pulling your hair out? Here’s how I did it—and the mistakes I learned from.

Step 1: Choose the Right Hub (If Needed)

If you’re using any SmartHub-connected cameras, start with the newest hub you have. The VMB5000 supports all modern cameras (Pro 4/5, Ultra 2, Go 2). If you have an older VMB4000, you can still use it, but you’ll miss out on features like local 4K recording (Ultra 2 needs the VMB5000 for that).

My Mistake: I initially used a VMB4000 for my Ultra 2. The video was capped at 1080p instead of 4K. Upgrading to the VMB5000 fixed it.

Step 2: Add All Cameras to the Same Account

Open the Arlo app and tap + Add Device. Follow the prompts. For Wi-Fi cameras, connect to your network. For hub-connected ones, sync to the hub first.

Pro Tip: Use the same email for all devices. I once used two emails by accident and had to merge accounts—took 45 minutes and a support call.

Step 3: Name Cameras Clearly

Go to each camera’s settings and give it a descriptive name. Use location + model (e.g., “Back Gate – Pro 4”). This helps with:

• Creating activity zones
• Setting up automations
• Finding clips in recordings

Step 4: Create Unified Activity Zones

Activity zones let you focus on specific areas. To set them up:

1. Go to each camera’s settings > Activity Zones
2. Draw zones (e.g., “Driveway” on the Pro 4, “Backyard” on the Ultra 2)
3. Use the Rules section to create cross-camera triggers (e.g., “If Pro 4 detects motion, record from Ultra 2”)

Example: I have a “Garage” zone on my Pro 4 and a “Side Yard” zone on my Essential. When either detects motion, both cameras record and send an alert. No blind spots!

Step 5: Test and Troubleshoot

After setup:

• Walk in front of each camera to test motion detection
• Check if alerts arrive in the app
• Verify that recordings appear in the timeline

Common Fixes:

• Camera not connecting? Restart the hub and camera. Re-sync.
• Delayed alerts? Check Wi-Fi strength or hub location. Move the hub closer to cameras.
• Older camera not triggering newer one? Some features require both cameras to support them. Check Arlo’s compatibility list.

Advanced Features: Making Mixed Cameras Work Smarter

Once your cameras are set up, you can unlock some powerful features that make a mixed system feel like one seamless unit.

Cross-Camera Automations

Use the Rules section in the app to create automations. Examples:

• “If the Ultra 2 detects a person, turn on the Pro 4’s spotlight.” (Works if both have spotlights)
• “If the Essential detects sound, start recording on the Pro 5.” (Great for indoor/outdoor coordination)
• “If the Video Doorbell rings, show a live feed from the front Pro 4.”

My Setup: I have a rule that says, “If the Go 2 (barn) detects motion, send a notification to my phone and record from the Ultra 2 (backyard).” It’s saved me from checking false alarms.

Unified Smart Notifications

Arlo’s AI can distinguish between people, vehicles, and animals. When you mix cameras, you can:

• Get specific alerts (e.g., “Person detected at Front Door”)
• Filter out false alarms (e.g., ignore trees blowing in the wind)
• Set quiet hours (e.g., no alerts between 10 PM–6 AM)

Tip: Enable “Smart Notifications” in the app. It’s free for 30 days with newer cameras, then requires a subscription (Arlo Secure). Worth it if you hate getting 20 alerts for a raccoon.

Cloud and Local Storage Together

Mixing storage types is possible:

• SmartHub cameras can use local SD storage (no subscription needed)
• Wi-Fi-only cameras rely on cloud storage (subscription required for full access)

My Hybrid Setup: I use local SD cards for my Pro 4 and Ultra 2 (for privacy) and a cloud subscription for my Essential (since it’s indoors). All recordings show up in the same timeline.

Multi-Camera Live View

Open the app and tap “Live View.” You’ll see all your cameras in a grid. You can:

• Pinch to zoom
• Switch between cameras
• Talk through two-way audio (if available)

Use Case: When my dog barks at night, I check the live view to see if it’s a person (Pro 4) or a squirrel (Ultra 2). No more false alarms!

Real-World Examples and Limitations

Let’s get real: mixing Arlo cameras works great—but it’s not perfect. Here’s what I’ve learned from my own setup and common issues users face.

Example 1: The “Whole House” Security Net

Cameras: Arlo Pro 4 (front), Arlo Essential (garage), Arlo Ultra 2 (back)

• All on the same account and VMB5000 hub
• Unified activity zones: “Front Yard,” “Back Yard,” “Garage”
• Rule: “If any camera detects a person, send a notification and record”
• Result: No blind spots. The system feels cohesive.

Example 2: The “Legacy + New” Mix

Cameras: Arlo Q (nursery), Arlo Pro 5 (front)

• Q connects to Wi-Fi; Pro 5 uses VMB5000
• Both in the same app
• Limitation: Can’t set up cross-camera rules (Q lacks advanced automation)
• Workaround: Use Q for baby monitoring and Pro 5 for security. Separate purposes, same dashboard.

Common Limitations and Fixes

Issue	Cause	Fix
Older camera not triggering newer one	Legacy models lack advanced AI	Use newer camera as the “trigger” in rules
Wi-Fi camera disconnects frequently	Weak signal or interference	Add a mesh extender or move closer to router
Mixed resolution looks inconsistent	Older cameras (1080p) vs. newer (2K/4K)	Adjust activity zones to prioritize higher-res cameras
Cloud subscription costs add up	Multiple Wi-Fi-only cameras need subscriptions	Use local SD storage for hub-connected cameras

When to Avoid Mixing

While most combinations work, there are cases where it’s better to keep systems separate:

• Legacy + Modern: If you have an original Arlo (2014) and a Pro 5, keep them on different accounts. The old hub can’t handle new features.
• Different Purposes: A baby monitor (Arlo Baby) and outdoor cameras serve different needs. Mixing them can clutter your alerts.

Conclusion: Yes, They Can Work Together—Here’s How

So, can different Arlo cameras work together? Absolutely. Whether you’re pairing a Pro 4 with an Essential, an Ultra 2 with a Go 2, or even bridging older and newer models, Arlo’s ecosystem is designed for flexibility. The key is understanding the role of the SmartHub, using the app’s unifying features, and setting up smart automations that make your cameras feel like a single system.

But it’s not magic. You’ll need to:

• Use the right hub for your cameras
• Name devices clearly
• Set up activity zones and rules thoughtfully
• Accept that older models have limitations (but they’re still useful!)

Think of it like a band: each camera is an instrument. The Pro 4 is the lead guitar, the Essential is the rhythm, and the Ultra 2 is the drums. They sound different, but together? They make beautiful music.

My advice? Start with what you have. Add new cameras as needed, and don’t stress about perfection. I’ve got a mix of three models, and it works great for my home. If you’re building a new system, go for newer models (Pro 5, Ultra 2, Essential)—they’re more compatible and future-proof.

At the end of the day, Arlo’s strength isn’t just in individual cameras—it’s in how they work together. So go ahead, mix and match. Your smart home security will be stronger for it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can different Arlo camera models work together in the same system?

Yes, most Arlo cameras (including Arlo Pro, Ultra, Essential, and Go) can work together seamlessly when connected to the same Arlo SmartHub or base station. They share the same app interface for unified monitoring and alerts.

Do I need multiple Arlo subscriptions if I use different camera types?

No, a single Arlo Secure subscription covers all your cameras regardless of model. However, higher-tier plans may be needed for 4K recording (e.g., Arlo Ultra) or advanced AI features.

How do different Arlo cameras work together with the Arlo app?

The Arlo app automatically syncs feeds from all connected cameras, allowing you to view, manage, and customize settings for each model in one dashboard. You can group cameras by location or create custom activity zones.

Can I mix wired and wireless Arlo cameras in the same setup?

Yes, Arlo supports hybrid setups. For example, you can pair wired Arlo Wired Floodlight Cameras with wireless Arlo Pro 4 cameras. All footage streams to the same app, but battery-powered models may require more frequent charging.

Will older Arlo cameras work with newer models like the Arlo Pro 5?

Generally, yes. Arlo maintains backward compatibility, but some AI features (e.g., package detection) may be limited to newer cameras. Check Arlo’s compatibility list for specific model pairings.

Can different Arlo cameras share the same SmartHub or base station?

Yes, one Arlo SmartHub or base station can support up to 15 cameras of mixed models. This simplifies setup and ensures stable connectivity, especially for Wi-Fi 6-enabled cameras like the Arlo Pro 5S.