Can I Add More Cameras to My Arlo System A Complete Guide

Yes, you can easily add more cameras to your Arlo system—most Arlo setups support multiple cameras, with base station models allowing up to 15 or more, depending on the series. Simply sync new cameras via the Arlo app for seamless integration, expand your coverage, and enhance home security without replacing existing equipment.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can expand: Arlo systems support adding multiple cameras for broader coverage.
• Check compatibility first: Ensure new cameras match your base station or hub model.
• Subscription may be needed: More cameras often require upgraded Arlo Smart plans.
• Sync cameras easily: Use the Arlo app to pair new devices in minutes.
• Optimal placement matters: Position cameras within 300ft of the base for best signal.
• Wired options available: Some Arlo models allow PoE for uninterrupted power and video.

Can I Add More Cameras to My Arlo System? A Complete Guide

Imagine this: You’ve just set up your Arlo security system. The first camera is perched by your front door, another watches the backyard, and maybe a third keeps an eye on the garage. Everything feels secure—until you realize the side gate, the basement window, or the kids’ play area are still uncovered. You start wondering, can I add more cameras to my Arlo system? If you’re nodding along, you’re not alone. Many Arlo users begin with a basic kit and soon want to expand coverage as their security needs grow. The good news? Yes, you can add more cameras—but the answer isn’t always one-size-fits-all.

Adding cameras isn’t just about plugging in a new device and calling it a day. It’s about understanding compatibility, subscription limits, power needs, and even how your Wi-Fi handles the extra load. I’ve been there—trying to add a fourth camera only to find out my base station was maxed out, or realizing my outdoor camera’s battery died because I forgot to charge it for weeks. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to expand your Arlo system smartly. Whether you’re covering a new shed, a rental property, or just want peace of mind, this guide will help you do it right—without the headaches.

How Arlo Systems Work: The Foundation for Expansion

Understanding Arlo’s Ecosystem

Before you start adding cameras, it’s crucial to understand how Arlo systems are built. Unlike traditional wired systems, Arlo is designed for flexibility and scalability. At its core, an Arlo system includes:

• Cameras: Wireless (battery-powered or solar) or wired (like the Arlo Pro 5S).
• Base Station or SmartHub: Acts as a central hub for communication (except for newer Wi-Fi-only models like the Arlo Essential).
• App & Cloud: The Arlo app lets you view footage, receive alerts, and manage settings.

Think of the base station as a “home base” for your cameras. It connects to your Wi-Fi and manages data flow. Older models (like Arlo Pro 2) require a base station, while newer ones (like Arlo Essential) connect directly to Wi-Fi. This difference affects how many cameras you can add and how they’re powered.

Types of Arlo Cameras & Their Compatibility

Not all Arlo cameras play nice with each other. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Legacy Systems (Pro 2, Pro 3, Ultra): Require a base station. These use a proprietary wireless protocol (not Wi-Fi), which reduces interference but limits direct Wi-Fi features.
• Wi-Fi-Only Cameras (Essential, Pro 4/5S): Connect directly to your router. No base station needed, but they rely heavily on Wi-Fi stability.
• Hybrid Systems: Some newer setups (like the Arlo Secure Hub) support both base station and Wi-Fi cameras.

Example: If you have an Arlo Pro 2 base station, you can add a Pro 3 or Ultra camera, but you can’t add an Essential camera to that same base station. However, if you have an Arlo Secure Hub (the newer model), it supports both legacy and Wi-Fi cameras. Always check compatibility before buying!

How Many Cameras Can You Add? Limits and Limits Within Limits

Base Station & SmartHub Limits

This is where things get tricky. The number of cameras you can add depends on your base station or SmartHub model:

• Arlo Pro Base Station (VMB4000, VMB4500): Supports up to 5 cameras. (Yes, only 5—I learned this the hard way when I tried to add a 6th!)
• Arlo Ultra Base Station (VMB5000): Supports up to 15 cameras.
• Arlo Secure Hub (VMB4540): Supports up to 20 cameras (mix of Wi-Fi and base station models).

Tip: If you’re using an older base station, consider upgrading to a Secure Hub if you plan to expand. It’s worth the investment for larger homes or multi-property setups.

Wi-Fi-Only Systems: No Base Station, No Problem?

Cameras like the Arlo Essential connect directly to your Wi-Fi. In theory, you can add as many as your router and internet plan allow. But here’s the catch:

• Wi-Fi Bandwidth: Each camera uses 2.4GHz or 5GHz Wi-Fi. If you have 10 cameras, all streaming 1080p, your router might struggle. I once added 8 Essentials to a basic home router—buffering was constant.
• Internet Upload Speed: Cloud recording requires uploading footage. If your upload speed is under 5 Mbps, adding more cameras can cause lag or failed uploads.
• App Limits: The Arlo app displays up to 12 camera feeds on one screen. Beyond that, you’ll need to swipe through multiple pages.

Pro Tip: Run a speed test (try fast.com) and check your router’s specs. For 10+ Wi-Fi cameras, a mesh network (like Google Nest Wi-Fi) is a game-changer.

Subscription Limits: The Hidden Cap

Even if your hardware supports 20 cameras, your Arlo subscription might not. Here’s how it breaks down:

• Free Plan: Only supports 1 camera. Footage stored for 7 days.
• Arlo Secure (Single Camera): $2.99/month per camera. 30-day cloud storage.
• Arlo Secure (Unlimited Cameras): $9.99/month for up to 20 cameras. 30-day storage + AI features (like package detection).

If you have 15 cameras but only pay for a 10-camera plan, the extras won’t record to the cloud. They’ll still send alerts, but you’ll need a microSD card (for local storage) to save footage. I once had 12 cameras on a 10-camera plan—two were “blind” for weeks until I upgraded.

Step-by-Step: Adding More Cameras to Your Arlo System

Step 1: Check Compatibility & Hardware Limits

Before buying anything, answer these questions:

• What’s your base station/SmartHub model? (Check the label or Arlo app > Settings > Device Info.)
• How many cameras are currently connected? (App > Devices > see the list.)
• Is your subscription plan sufficient? (App > Settings > Subscription.)

Example: If you have a Pro 2 base station (5-camera limit) and already have 4 cameras, you can add just one more. If you want more, upgrade the base station first.

Step 2: Buy the Right Camera

Match the camera to your needs:

• Outdoor Coverage: Arlo Pro 4/5S (wired) or Pro 3 (battery). Better night vision and weather resistance.
• Indoor Coverage: Arlo Essential (Wi-Fi) or Arlo Baby. Cheaper and easier to install.
• Long Battery Life: Arlo Go (LTE-powered) for remote areas (like a shed).

Tip: Buy from Arlo’s website or authorized sellers. Third-party sellers sometimes sell incompatible models.

Step 3: Install & Pair the Camera

Here’s how to add a camera in 5 minutes:

1. Charge the battery (if applicable) or plug in the camera.
2. Open the Arlo app > tap “+” > “Add Device” > select your camera model.
3. Follow the app prompts. For base station cameras, the hub will detect it automatically. For Wi-Fi cameras, connect to your network.
4. Test the connection. Check the live feed and motion detection.

Common Mistake: I once paired a camera but didn’t wait for the firmware update. It took 20 minutes to complete, and I thought it was broken. Patience is key!

Step 4: Optimize Placement & Settings

Don’t just slap the camera on a wall. Consider:

• Field of View: Aim for 90–120 degrees. Avoid pointing at bright lights or moving trees (false alerts).
• Height: 7–8 feet for outdoor cameras to avoid tampering.
• Wi-Fi Signal: For Wi-Fi cameras, ensure strong signal (use a Wi-Fi analyzer app like NetSpot).

Pro Tip: In the Arlo app, adjust motion sensitivity and activity zones. I set my backyard camera to ignore the neighbor’s cat—no more midnight “intruder” alerts!

Power, Storage, and Connectivity: Avoiding Common Pitfalls

Battery Life & Charging Strategies

Battery-powered cameras (like Arlo Pro 3) last 3–6 months on a charge. But if you add 5+ cameras, charging becomes a chore. Here’s how to manage it:

• Rotate Charging: Label batteries 1–5 and charge one every week. Never let all run out.
• Use Solar Panels: Arlo’s solar panel keeps batteries charged. I use one for my backyard camera—zero battery anxiety.
• Wired Options: For high-traffic areas (like the front door), go wired (Pro 4/5S). No charging, but you’ll need an outlet nearby.

Warning: Extreme cold (<14°F) or heat (>113°F) can drain batteries faster. If you live in a harsh climate, consider a wired or LTE camera.

Storage Options: Cloud vs. Local

Arlo offers two ways to store footage:

• Cloud: Requires a subscription. Easy to access but costs add up.
• Local (microSD): Free, but limited to 256GB. No remote access if the camera is offline.

Hybrid Approach: Use cloud for critical cameras (front door) and microSD for others (backyard). I have 3 cameras on cloud and 5 on microSD—saves $15/month!

Wi-Fi & Network Stability

Adding cameras can strain your network. Fix this by:

• Using 5GHz for Wi-Fi Cameras: Less interference than 2.4GHz.
• Adding a Wi-Fi Extender: For dead zones. I use a Netgear extender for my garage camera.
• Quality of Service (QoS): In your router settings, prioritize Arlo traffic. (Google “QoS [your router model]” for steps.)

Real-World Test: After adding 8 cameras, my Wi-Fi slowed down. I switched to a mesh network—problem solved.

Expanding Beyond One Property: Multi-Location & Advanced Tips

Managing Multiple Properties

If you have a vacation home or rental property, you can add cameras there to your same Arlo account:

• Same Base Station: Only if it’s within range (max 300 ft for Pro models).
• Separate Base Stations: Add a new base station to your account (App > Settings > Base Station > “Add Base Station”).
• Wi-Fi-Only Cameras: Just connect to the new location’s Wi-Fi.

Example: I have 5 cameras at my main home (base station) and 3 at my cabin (Wi-Fi-only). Both appear in the same app—no extra subscriptions!

Advanced Features for Larger Systems

For 10+ cameras, unlock these features:

• Arlo Secure AI: Package detection, person/vehicle alerts. Reduces false alarms.
• Geofencing: Automatically arm/disarm when you leave/arrive.
• Custom Activity Zones: Focus on specific areas (like a driveway).
• Arlo SmartHub: Supports 20 cameras and local storage (no cloud needed).

Pro Tip: Use the “Groups” feature to organize cameras by location (e.g., “Main House,” “Cabin,” “Garage”). Saves time scrolling!

Data Table: Arlo Camera Expansion Cheat Sheet

Base Station/SmartHub	Max Cameras	Wi-Fi Support	Best For
Arlo Pro (VMB4000/4500)	5	No (uses proprietary protocol)	Small homes, basic setups
Arlo Ultra (VMB5000)	15	Yes (for Ultra cameras)	Medium homes, high-end needs
Arlo Secure Hub (VMB4540)	20	Yes (mix of Wi-Fi/base station)	Large homes, multi-property
Wi-Fi-Only (No Hub)	Router-dependent	Yes	Small apartments, renters

Conclusion: Yes, You Can Add More Cameras—But Do It Right

So, can you add more cameras to your Arlo system? Absolutely. But the real question is: Should you? Expanding your system isn’t just about buying more gear—it’s about planning for compatibility, power, storage, and network health. I’ve seen users rush into adding cameras only to face dead batteries, lagging feeds, or subscription overages. Don’t be that person.

Start by auditing your current setup: What base station do you have? How many cameras are you already using? What’s your Wi-Fi and internet situation? Then, match your expansion to your needs. For small homes, a few extra cameras might be perfect. For larger properties, invest in a Secure Hub and a mesh network. And always keep an eye on your subscription plan—cloud storage for 20 cameras isn’t cheap, but it’s worth it for peace of mind.

Remember, security is a journey, not a destination. Your needs might change as your family grows, your property expands, or new tech emerges. Arlo’s flexibility is its biggest strength, so use it wisely. Whether you’re adding one camera or ten, take it step by step. Test, adjust, and optimize. Before you know it, you’ll have a system that’s not just comprehensive—but smart. And that’s the real win.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add more cameras to my Arlo system?

Yes, you can add more cameras to your Arlo system, but the number depends on your subscription plan and base station model. Most Arlo systems support up to 5–15 cameras, with higher limits for premium plans.

How many Arlo cameras can I add to a single system?

The maximum number varies by model: Arlo Pro and Ultra support up to 15 cameras, while older base stations may cap at 5. Check your hub’s specifications or Arlo app for exact limits.

Do I need a new base station to add more Arlo cameras?

Not always—if your current base station supports additional cameras, you can pair them directly. However, older models may require a newer hub (like Arlo SmartHub) for expanded capacity.

Can I mix different Arlo camera models in one system?

Yes, Arlo allows mixing models (e.g., Pro 4, Ultra 2, or Wire-Free) within the same system. Ensure they’re compatible with your base station and subscription plan for full functionality.

Will adding more cameras slow down my Arlo system?

Generally, no—Arlo’s cloud-based system manages bandwidth efficiently. However, local recording via a hub may require a stronger Wi-Fi signal or Ethernet connection for optimal performance.

Is there an extra cost to add more cameras to my Arlo plan?

Arlo subscriptions often limit cloud storage to a set number of cameras. Adding more may require upgrading to a higher-tier plan (e.g., Arlo Secure Plus for 20+ cameras).