Can I Order a New Base for Arlo Cameras Here Is What You Need to Know

Yes, you can order a new base for Arlo cameras directly from Arlo’s official website or authorized retailers, ensuring compatibility and warranty protection. Replacement bases are available for most Arlo models, including the Pro, Ultra, and Essential series, but double-check your camera’s model number before purchasing to avoid mismatches.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can order a new Arlo base station directly from Arlo’s website or authorized retailers.
• Check compatibility first—ensure the base supports your specific Arlo camera model before purchasing.
• Lost or damaged bases can be replaced, but verify warranty status for potential free replacement.
• Third-party sellers may offer bases, but stick to trusted sources to avoid counterfeit products.
• Setup is simple—follow Arlo’s app instructions to sync the new base with your cameras.
• Consider bundled deals—sometimes bases are sold with cameras or accessories for added value.

Why You Might Need a New Arlo Camera Base

Let’s face it—technology doesn’t last forever, and even the most reliable home security gear like Arlo cameras can run into issues over time. Whether it’s a damaged base station, a lost component, or you’re expanding your setup to cover more areas, you might find yourself wondering: *Can I order a new base for Arlo cameras?* The answer is yes—but there are a few things you need to know before hitting that “buy” button.

I remember when my own Arlo base station stopped syncing with my cameras after a power surge. It wasn’t the camera that failed—it was the hub. I panicked at first, thinking I’d have to replace my entire system. But after digging into Arlo’s support pages and chatting with customer service, I learned that replacing just the base station was not only possible but also straightforward. That experience taught me how important it is to understand your options when a single component fails. Whether you’re dealing with a hardware glitch, moving to a new home, or just upgrading, knowing where and how to get a replacement base can save you time, money, and stress.

Understanding the Arlo Base Station: What It Does and Why It Matters

What Is an Arlo Base Station?

The Arlo base station (also called a hub or gateway) is the central brain of your Arlo security system. It’s not just a power adapter—it’s a Wi-Fi bridge, local storage unit, and security processor all in one. Unlike standalone Wi-Fi cameras, most Arlo models (especially Pro, Ultra, and Essential series) rely on this base to connect to your network, store video locally, and enable advanced features like AI detection and 24/7 recording.

Think of it like the router for your cameras. Without it, your cameras can’t talk to your phone, record footage, or even stay online. If your base station fails, your entire system could go dark—even if the cameras themselves are working fine.

Key Functions of the Base Station

• Wi-Fi Bridging: Arlo cameras use a private, secure 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz connection to the base, which then connects to your home Wi-Fi. This reduces interference and improves reliability.
• Local Storage: If you have a microSD card or use Arlo SmartHub, the base stores video locally—ideal for avoiding cloud fees or internet outages.
• Firmware Updates: The base pushes updates to all connected cameras, ensuring they stay secure and up to date.
• Alarm & Siren Control: Some models include a built-in siren that activates during alerts.
• Power Backup: Many base stations have a backup battery, keeping the system running during short power cuts.

When You Might Need a Replacement

You might need a new base for Arlo cameras if:

• The base is damaged (water, fire, power surge)
• The LED status lights are off or blinking abnormally
• Cameras won’t sync or stay connected
• You’ve moved and left the old base behind
• You’re expanding your system and need a second base (for larger properties)

In my case, a thunderstorm fried the internal circuitry of my base station. The cameras were fine, but the hub wouldn’t power on. A replacement was the only fix.

Can I Order a New Base for Arlo Cameras? Where and How

Official Arlo Store (Best for Compatibility & Warranty)

The safest and most reliable place to order a new base for Arlo cameras is directly from Arlo’s official website. They sell standalone base stations for most models, including:

• Arlo Pro 3/4/5
• Arlo Ultra/Ultra 2
• Arlo Essential
• Arlo SmartHub (for local storage)

Buying from Arlo ensures:

• Full compatibility with your existing cameras
• One-year manufacturer warranty
• Free shipping (often)
• Access to firmware updates and support

For example, I ordered a replacement Arlo Pro 4 base station from their site. It arrived in two days, and I had it up and running in under 30 minutes. The setup was seamless—just plug it in, log into the Arlo app, and resync your cameras.

Third-Party Retailers (Amazon, Best Buy, B&H)

If you need a base station fast or want to compare prices, third-party retailers are a solid option. Amazon, in particular, often has competitive pricing and fast shipping.

• Amazon: Search for “Arlo Pro 4 base station” or “Arlo Ultra hub.” Make sure the listing says “sold by Arlo” or “sold by Amazon” to avoid knockoffs.
• Best Buy: Great for in-store pickup. I’ve seen Arlo bases in stock at local stores, which is handy if you’re in a hurry.
• B&H Photo Video: Offers detailed product descriptions and often includes free shipping.

Tip: Always check the model number on your original base. It’s usually printed on the back or bottom. Match it exactly to avoid compatibility issues. For example, the Arlo Pro 4 base (model VMB5000) is not the same as the Pro 3 (VMB4000).

Refurbished or Used Options (Use with Caution)

You might find used or refurbished base stations on eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or Swappa. While these can save you 20–40%, there are risks:

• No warranty
• Potential firmware lock or account binding
• Wear and tear from previous use

I once bought a used base from a local seller. It worked for a week, then stopped responding. When I contacted Arlo support, they confirmed it had been previously registered and was “locked” to another account. Lesson learned: stick to certified refurbished units (sold by Arlo or Amazon Renewed) if you go this route.

Contacting Arlo Support for Replacements

If your base station is under warranty or you’re unsure about compatibility, reach out to Arlo support. They can:

• Verify if your base is eligible for replacement
• Send a replacement if it’s defective
• Help you choose the right model

I called Arlo support when my base failed. After verifying my purchase date and serial number, they offered a free replacement under warranty. Even if your warranty has expired, they can guide you to the right product page or discount program.

Compatibility Guide: Which Base Works with Your Arlo Cameras?

Not all Arlo base stations are interchangeable. Using the wrong one can lead to syncing issues, reduced features, or no connectivity at all. Here’s what you need to know.

Arlo Pro Series (Pro 2, Pro 3, Pro 4, Pro 5)

• Pro 2: Uses VMB4000 base station
• Pro 3/4/5: Use VMB5000 (Pro 4/5 base) — fully compatible with all three models

Important: The VMB5000 base supports 2K and 4K video, local storage, and dual-band Wi-Fi. If you have a Pro 3 but want to upgrade to Pro 4, you can keep using the VMB5000 base. But if you have a Pro 2 and try to use a VMB5000, you might miss out on some features like 2K streaming.

Arlo Ultra and Ultra 2

• Use VMB5000 or VMB5000R (refurbished)
• Supports 4K video, color night vision, and 3D motion detection

Note: The Ultra series requires a VMB5000 base. Older VMB4000 bases won’t work. I learned this the hard way when I tried to pair an Ultra camera with my old Pro 3 base—it synced, but the 4K feed was downgraded to 1080p.

Arlo Essential Series

• Use VMB4540 base station
• Designed for 1080p cameras, no local storage

This base is Wi-Fi-only (no Ethernet port), so it’s best for smaller homes. It doesn’t support microSD cards, so all footage goes to the cloud (subscription required).

Arlo SmartHub (For Local Storage)

• Model: VMB4540 (same as Essential base) or VMB5000
• Supports microSD cards (up to 2TB) for local recording
• Works with Pro 3, Pro 4, Pro 5, Ultra, and Essential cameras

If you want to avoid cloud fees, the SmartHub is a game-changer. I added one to my setup and now store all footage locally. No more monthly charges!

Data Table: Arlo Base Station Compatibility

Camera Model	Compatible Base Station(s)	Max Video Resolution	Local Storage?	Wi-Fi Bands
Arlo Pro 2	VMB4000	1080p	No	2.4 GHz
Arlo Pro 3	VMB5000	2K	Yes (microSD)	2.4 & 5 GHz
Arlo Pro 4/5	VMB5000	2K (Pro 4), 4K (Pro 5)	Yes (microSD)	2.4 & 5 GHz
Arlo Ultra/Ultra 2	VMB5000	4K	Yes (microSD)	2.4 & 5 GHz
Arlo Essential	VMB4540	1080p	No	2.4 GHz
Arlo SmartHub	VMB5000 or VMB4540	Depends on camera	Yes (microSD)	2.4 & 5 GHz

Pro Tip: Always check the Arlo app to confirm compatibility. When you try to add a new base, the app will tell you if it’s supported. If it says “incompatible,” double-check the model number.

Step-by-Step: How to Set Up a New Arlo Base Station

Unboxing and Initial Setup

When your new base arrives, here’s what to do:

1. Unbox and check for damage
2. Plug in the power adapter and connect the base to your router via Ethernet (recommended for stability)
3. Wait 2–3 minutes for the base to power on and connect to the network (look for solid blue or green lights)

I always recommend using an Ethernet cable for the first setup. Wi-Fi connections can be finicky during syncing.

Syncing with the Arlo App

1. Open the Arlo app on your phone or tablet
2. Tap “Add Device” and select “Base Station”
3. Scan the QR code on the base (usually on the back or bottom)
4. Follow the prompts to connect to your Wi-Fi network
5. Wait for the base to appear in your device list

If the base doesn’t show up, try:

• Resetting the base (press and hold the reset button for 10 seconds)
• Restarting your router
• Moving the base closer to the router

Reconnecting Your Cameras

Once the base is online:

1. Press and hold the sync button on the base for 2 seconds
2. Within 10 seconds, press the sync button on each camera
3. Wait for the camera LED to flash green (success) or red (error)

Tip: Sync one camera at a time. If multiple cameras fail, restart the process. I once tried to sync all four at once—only two connected. Doing them one by one fixed it.

Restoring Settings and Subscriptions

If you had cloud recordings or smart alerts set up:

• Your Arlo account should automatically restore settings
• Check your subscription status in the app (Settings > Subscription)
• Verify that local storage (microSD) is enabled if you use it

Note: If you used a microSD card in your old base, transfer it to the new one. The recordings should appear in the app within a few minutes.

Tips to Extend the Life of Your Arlo Base Station

Use a Surge Protector

Power surges are one of the top causes of base station failure. I learned this after my storm incident. Now, I plug my base into a high-quality surge protector. It’s a small investment that can save you hundreds.

Keep It in a Dry, Cool Place

Moisture and heat can damage internal components. Avoid placing the base near windows, bathrooms, or heating vents. I keep mine on a shelf in my home office—away from sunlight and spills.

Update Firmware Regularly

Arlo pushes firmware updates every few months. These fix bugs, improve security, and add features. To update:

• Open the Arlo app
• Go to Settings > My Devices > [Base Station]
• Tap “Check for Updates”

Pro Tip: Enable automatic updates if available. I do this for all my devices—it’s one less thing to worry about.

Monitor for Warning Signs

Watch for these red flags:

• Frequent disconnections
• Slow syncing or app lag
• Overheating (base feels hot to the touch)
• Unusual LED patterns (e.g., rapid blinking)

If you notice any, contact Arlo support early. Small issues can become big ones.

Final Thoughts: Yes, You Can—and Should—Order a New Base for Arlo Cameras

So, can I order a new base for Arlo cameras? Absolutely. Whether you’re replacing a broken unit, expanding your system, or upgrading to local storage, getting a new base is not only possible—it’s often the smartest move. The key is knowing which model you need, where to buy it, and how to set it up correctly.

From my own experience, buying directly from Arlo gave me peace of mind. No compatibility issues, no warranty worries, and excellent support when I needed it. But if you’re in a pinch, third-party retailers can work—just verify the model and seller. And if you’re on a budget, consider a certified refurbished unit, but avoid unknown sources.

Remember: the base station is the heart of your Arlo system. Treat it with care, keep it updated, and don’t hesitate to replace it when needed. A new base can breathe life back into your cameras, restore your peace of mind, and keep your home secure for years to come. Whether you’re a long-time Arlo user or just starting out, understanding your options empowers you to make the best decision—for your home, your budget, and your security.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I order a new base for Arlo cameras directly from Arlo?

Yes, you can order a replacement or additional base station for your Arlo cameras directly from the official Arlo website. They offer base stations compatible with various Arlo models, including Pro, Ultra, and Essential series.

Where can I buy a compatible base station for my Arlo cameras?

You can purchase an Arlo base station from the Arlo website, Amazon, Best Buy, or other authorized retailers. Always verify compatibility with your specific camera model before ordering a new base for Arlo systems.

Is the Arlo base station sold separately from the cameras?

Yes, Arlo base stations are available as standalone purchases. This is ideal if you’re expanding your system or need a replacement base for Arlo cameras without buying a full kit.

What should I check before ordering a new base for Arlo cameras?

Ensure the base station model matches your Arlo camera generation (e.g., Pro 3, Ultra 2) for seamless pairing. Check connectivity options (Wi-Fi, Ethernet) and power requirements to avoid compatibility issues.

Can I use a third-party base station with my Arlo cameras?

No, Arlo cameras only work with official Arlo base stations. Third-party devices aren’t supported, so always order a new base for Arlo from trusted sources to ensure reliability.

How do I set up a replacement Arlo base station?

Plug in the base station, connect it to your router, and sync it via the Arlo app. The app will guide you through adding your cameras to the new base for Arlo systems.