Can I Mix and Match Arlo Cameras for Ultimate Security

Yes, you can mix and match Arlo cameras to create a fully customized home security system that fits your unique layout and surveillance needs. Arlo’s ecosystem supports seamless integration across wired, wireless, indoor, and outdoor models—all managed through a single app for maximum flexibility and control.

Key Takeaways

• Mix Arlo cameras freely: Combine indoor, outdoor, and doorbell models seamlessly.
• Same app for all: Control every camera type through one unified Arlo app.
• Subscription flexibility: Choose plans per camera or bundle for multi-camera savings.
• Sync with hubs: Use an Arlo SmartHub to connect diverse camera types reliably.
• Customize alerts: Tailor notifications per camera for smarter security monitoring.
• No compatibility issues: All Arlo generations work together with firmware updates.

Can I Mix and Match Arlo Cameras for Ultimate Security

Imagine this: You’re setting up a home security system, and you want every corner of your property covered. The front door? Covered. Backyard? Covered. Garage? Covered. But what if you could mix different types of Arlo cameras to get the best of each world? That’s the question on many homeowners’ minds: Can I mix and match Arlo cameras for ultimate security? The short answer is yes—and it’s actually a smart move. But, like any good plan, it takes a little thought to get it just right.

Arlo, a leader in smart home security, offers a wide range of cameras—indoor, outdoor, wired, wireless, solar-powered, and even doorbells with built-in cameras. Each model brings something unique to the table, whether it’s night vision, motion detection, or two-way audio. The beauty of Arlo’s ecosystem is that most of its cameras can coexist in the same system, giving you flexibility and control. But before you start pairing a weatherproof outdoor cam with a sleek indoor one, there are things you should know. In this post, we’ll explore how to mix and match Arlo cameras effectively, what works (and what doesn’t), and how to build a truly comprehensive security setup that fits your lifestyle.

Why Mixing Arlo Cameras Makes Sense

Tailored Security for Every Zone

No two areas of your home have the same security needs. The front porch might need a wide-angle view and motion-triggered alerts, while your living room might benefit from a discreet indoor camera with night vision and two-way talk. Mixing different Arlo cameras allows you to customize your system based on location, lighting, and risk level.

For example, an Arlo Pro 5S with 2K HDR video and color night vision is perfect for your driveway, where detail matters. Meanwhile, an Arlo Essential Indoor Camera with a privacy shutter works better in your nursery or home office—places where you want security without feeling watched all the time. By combining models, you’re not just adding cameras—you’re building a smarter, more responsive system.

Cost-Effective and Scalable

Buying one type of camera for your entire property can be expensive and inefficient. Maybe you don’t need 4K resolution in your garage, but you do want a camera that survives freezing winter nights. Mixing models lets you invest in high-end features where they matter most and save on simpler models in low-risk zones.

Think of it like building a wardrobe: you wouldn’t wear a winter coat to the gym or a tuxedo to the beach. Your security system should follow the same logic. Use Arlo Ultra 2 for high-traffic areas, Arlo Wire-Free for easy-to-install spots, and Arlo Solar Panel-compatible cameras for remote locations. This approach saves money and reduces clutter.

Future-Proofing Your Setup

Arlo regularly releases new models with improved features—better batteries, smarter AI detection, enhanced weather resistance. If you’ve built a mixed system, you can upgrade individual cameras without replacing the whole setup. Want to add facial recognition to your front door? Swap in an Arlo Pro 5S. Need a camera for a new shed? Add a Wire-Free model without disrupting your existing network.

This modular approach means your system evolves with your needs, not the other way around.

Which Arlo Cameras Can You Mix?

Compatible Models Across the Lineup

The good news? Arlo has designed its ecosystem to be highly compatible. Most cameras connect to the same base station (like the Arlo SmartHub) or directly to your Wi-Fi, and they all integrate with the Arlo Secure app. Here’s a quick rundown of popular models that can be mixed:

• Arlo Pro 5S (2K) – Wired/wireless hybrid, color night vision, AI object detection
• Arlo Ultra 2 (4K) – Best for high-detail areas, HDR, spotlight
• Arlo Wire-Free – Battery-powered, easy install, weather-resistant
• Arlo Essential Indoor/Outdoor – Budget-friendly, privacy shutter, 1080p
• Arlo Video Doorbell – 180° field of view, package detection, two-way audio
• Arlo Floodlight Cam – Bright LED lights, motion-triggered alerts
• Arlo Go 2 (LTE) – No Wi-Fi needed, ideal for remote properties

All of these can coexist in the same system. The key is ensuring they’re all connected to the same Arlo account and, ideally, the same SmartHub (if you’re using one).

Base Station vs. Wi-Fi Connection

Here’s where things get a little technical—but don’t worry, it’s simple once you understand it. Arlo cameras connect in two ways:

• Via Arlo SmartHub/Base Station: Older Pro and Ultra models use a base station to extend range and improve signal. The SmartHub supports up to 15 cameras and offers local storage (via microSD card), which is great for privacy and reliability.
• Direct Wi-Fi Connection: Newer models like the Essential and Go 2 connect straight to your home Wi-Fi. They don’t need a hub, which simplifies setup.

You can mix both types in one system. For example, your Arlo Pro 5S and Ultra 2 can connect to the SmartHub, while your Essential Indoor and Video Doorbell connect directly to Wi-Fi. The app treats them all as one unified system—no extra steps needed.

Important Compatibility Notes

While mixing is possible, there are a few caveats:

• Not all features are available on all cameras. For example, the Essential Indoor doesn’t support 2K video or AI person detection like the Pro 5S. That’s okay—just set expectations.
• SmartHub is required for local storage and certain features. If you want to save videos locally (without a cloud subscription), you’ll need a SmartHub and compatible cameras.
• LTE cameras (Arlo Go 2) use a separate data plan. They’re great for sheds or vacation homes, but they don’t connect to your Wi-Fi or SmartHub. They operate independently but still appear in the same app.

Bottom line: Mixing is easy, but plan your setup to match your goals—whether it’s cloud storage, local backups, or remote access.

How to Set Up a Mixed Arlo Camera System

Step 1: Define Your Security Zones

Start by mapping out your property. Identify high-risk areas (front door, back gate, garage), medium-risk (side yard, basement), and low-risk (indoor hallways, storage rooms). This helps you decide which camera features matter most in each spot.

For example:

• Front porch: Arlo Video Doorbell + Arlo Pro 5S (for wider view)
• Backyard: Arlo Ultra 2 (4K detail, spotlight) + Arlo Floodlight Cam (motion-activated light)
• Living room: Arlo Essential Indoor (privacy shutter, two-way talk)
• Shed: Arlo Go 2 (LTE, no Wi-Fi needed)

This mix gives you coverage, clarity, and control—without overkill.

Step 2: Choose Your Hub (If Needed)

If you’re using Pro, Ultra, or older models, a SmartHub is recommended. It:

• Extends Wi-Fi range for outdoor cameras
• Supports local video storage (up to 2TB)
• Reduces bandwidth usage (videos are stored locally first)

But if you’re only using Wi-Fi-connected cameras (Essential, Go 2, Doorbell), you can skip the hub. Just make sure your Wi-Fi signal is strong everywhere. Use a Wi-Fi extender if needed.

Step 3: Install and Connect Each Camera

Here’s where the fun begins. Install each camera following the app’s step-by-step guide. Most Arlo cameras are DIY-friendly:

• Outdoor models come with mounting hardware and weatherproof seals.
• Indoor models are plug-and-play—just find a spot and connect.
• For Wi-Fi cameras, the app walks you through pairing.
• For SmartHub cameras, sync them to the hub first.

Pro tip: Label each camera in the app (e.g., “Front Door,” “Garage”) so you don’t get confused later.

Step 4: Customize Alerts and Rules

This is where mixing cameras really shines. Use the Arlo app to set different rules for each camera:

• Front door: Get alerts for people, packages, and vehicles.
• Backyard: Only alert for motion after dark.
• Indoor camera: Turn off at night (or enable privacy mode).
• Shed (Go 2): Send alerts only during business hours.

You can even create “activity zones” to ignore trees or pets, reducing false alarms.

Step 5: Test and Optimize

After setup, spend a week testing:

• Do all cameras show up in the app?
• Are alerts timely and accurate?
• Is the video quality clear in low light?

If a camera has weak signal or false alarms, adjust its position or settings. Arlo’s AI improves over time as it learns what’s normal in each zone.

Real-World Examples of Mixed Arlo Setups

The Urban Apartment (Wi-Fi-Only Mix)

Sarah lives in a city apartment with a small balcony and no outdoor space. Her setup:

• Arlo Video Doorbell – For deliveries and guests
• Arlo Essential Indoor (x2) – In living room and bedroom
• Arlo Floodlight Cam (indoor mount) – Over balcony door

She skips the SmartHub since all cameras connect to Wi-Fi. The doorbell alerts her to packages, while the indoor cams let her check in on her cat. The floodlight cam deters late-night balcony visitors. Total cost: under $400.

The Suburban Home (Hub-Based Mix)

Mark has a two-story house with a backyard, driveway, and detached garage. His system:

• SmartHub – Plugged into router, with 2TB microSD card
• Arlo Pro 5S (x2) – Front and back doors
• Arlo Ultra 2 – Driveway (for license plate clarity)
• Arlo Essential Outdoor – Side gate (low-traffic area)
• Arlo Go 2 – Garage (no Wi-Fi, uses LTE)

The SmartHub stores 30 days of footage locally. The Go 2 sends alerts when the garage is accessed. Mark pays $5/month for LTE data but saves on cloud storage. His system is reliable, private, and scalable.

The Rural Property (Hybrid Mix)

Lisa’s farm has a main house, barn, and pond. Her setup:

• Arlo Ultra 2 – Front porch (4K detail)
• Arlo Floodlight Cam – Barn entrance
• Arlo Go 2 (x2) – Pond and far pasture (no Wi-Fi)
• Arlo Essential Indoor – Kitchen (for monitoring farmhands)

She uses the SmartHub for the house cameras and LTE for remote areas. The floodlight cam deters wildlife, while the Go 2s give peace of mind when she’s away. Total monthly cost: $10 (LTE + Arlo Secure plan).

Common Challenges (and How to Fix Them)

Signal Dropouts

Outdoor cameras far from your router or SmartHub may lose signal. Fixes:

• Move the SmartHub closer to the center of your property.
• Use Wi-Fi extenders or mesh networks (like Eero or Google Nest).
• For LTE cameras, ensure they have good cell coverage.

Battery Life in Mixed Systems

Wire-free and Essential cameras run on batteries. Tips to extend life:

• Use Arlo Solar Panels for outdoor cameras.
• Reduce motion sensitivity or use activity zones.
• Check battery levels weekly in the app.

Cloud vs. Local Storage Confusion

Remember:

• Cameras on Wi-Fi: Videos go to the cloud (requires Arlo Secure subscription).
• Cameras on SmartHub: Videos can go to local microSD card (no subscription needed).

You can mix both—just know where your footage is stored. For maximum privacy, use local storage for sensitive areas (like bedrooms).

App Overload

With 5+ cameras, the app can feel cluttered. Organize by:

• Creating folders (e.g., “Outdoor,” “Indoor”).
• Using geofencing to turn off indoor cameras when you’re home.
• Setting up smart home integrations (like Alexa or Google Home) for voice control.

Data Table: Arlo Camera Mixing Compatibility

Camera Model	Connects To	Video Quality	Night Vision	Weatherproof	Best For
Arlo Pro 5S	SmartHub or Wi-Fi	2K HDR	Color + IR	Yes (IP65)	High-detail outdoor areas
Arlo Ultra 2	SmartHub	4K HDR	Color + IR	Yes (IP65)	Driveways, entrances
Arlo Wire-Free	SmartHub	1080p	IR	Yes (IP65)	Easy-install spots
Arlo Essential Indoor	Wi-Fi	1080p	IR	No (indoor only)	Living rooms, nurseries
Arlo Video Doorbell	Wi-Fi	1536p	Color	Yes (IP54)	Front door, packages
Arlo Go 2	LTE	1080p	IR	Yes (IP65)	Remote properties, no Wi-Fi

All of these can coexist in the same Arlo account. The table helps you pick the right camera for each job.

Final Thoughts: Build Your Perfect Security Mix

So, can you mix and match Arlo cameras for ultimate security? Absolutely—and you should. The days of one-size-fits-all security are over. By combining different Arlo models, you create a system that’s smarter, more flexible, and tailored to your life.

Think about it: You wouldn’t use a hammer to cut a cake or a spoon to drive a nail. Your security system should be just as purposeful. Use high-end cameras where detail matters, budget models where coverage is enough, and specialty cameras (like floodlights or doorbells) where their unique features shine.

And remember: mixing isn’t just about hardware. It’s about how you use the app, set rules, and adapt over time. Start small, test often, and expand as needed. Whether you’re in a city apartment or a rural farm, Arlo’s ecosystem lets you build a security setup that’s uniquely yours.

Your home is more than a place—it’s your sanctuary. With the right mix of Arlo cameras, you can protect it with confidence, clarity, and peace of mind. Now go build that system. You’ve got this.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I mix and match Arlo cameras with different models in one system?

Yes, you can mix and match Arlo cameras (like Ultra, Pro 4, and Essential) in a single system. They all connect to the same Arlo SmartHub or base station, allowing seamless integration for a customized security setup.

Do all Arlo cameras work with the same base station?

Most Arlo cameras, including Pro, Ultra, and Essential series, are compatible with the Arlo SmartHub or base station. This lets you mix and match Arlo cameras without needing separate hubs for each model.

Will mixing Arlo cameras affect video quality or features?

No, mixing Arlo cameras won’t compromise performance. Each camera retains its native resolution and features (e.g., 4K on Ultra, color night vision on Pro 4), giving you flexibility without sacrificing quality.

Can I use older Arlo cameras with newer models in a mix-and-match setup?

Yes, Arlo supports backward compatibility, so older cameras (like Pro 2) can work alongside newer models. Just ensure they’re connected to a compatible SmartHub or base station for full functionality.

Is there a limit to how many Arlo cameras I can mix and match?

Arlo SmartHubs support up to 15–20 cameras, depending on the model. You can mix and match Arlo cameras within this limit, but performance may vary based on Wi-Fi strength and camera types.

Do mixed Arlo cameras work with the same Arlo app?

Absolutely! All Arlo cameras, regardless of model, sync to the same Arlo app. This lets you manage your mix-and-match Arlo system, view feeds, and adjust settings from one centralized dashboard.