Can I Use Arlo Cameras With Arlo Pro Base Station Explained

Yes, you can use most Arlo cameras with the Arlo Pro base station, ensuring seamless integration and enhanced performance for your home security setup. Compatible models include Arlo Pro, Pro 2, Pro 3, and Pro 4, but older or non-Pro cameras may require firmware updates or have limited functionality. Always verify compatibility before pairing to maximize features like 24/7 recording and local storage.

Key Takeaways

• Compatibility confirmed: Arlo Pro base station works with most Arlo cameras, including Ultra and Pro models.
• Check firmware first: Ensure all devices run updated firmware for seamless integration and performance.
• Use sync button: Press the base station sync button to pair cameras quickly and reliably.
• Single base limit: One Arlo Pro base station supports up to 15 cameras max—plan accordingly.
• No cross-generation issues: Older Arlo cameras pair with newer Pro base stations without problems.
• Local storage option: Base station enables local video storage if cloud subscription is unavailable.

Why Mixing Arlo Cameras and Base Stations Is a Hot Topic

You’ve probably been there—standing in your garage, holding a new Arlo camera in one hand and your old Arlo Pro base station in the other, wondering: Can I use Arlo cameras with Arlo Pro base station? Maybe you upgraded to a newer Arlo model but still have a working base station from years ago. Or perhaps you’re trying to save money by reusing equipment instead of buying a whole new system. It’s a smart move, and you’re not alone. Many Arlo users face this exact dilemma, especially as the brand rolls out newer cameras and hubs with different tech specs and connectivity options.

The good news? The answer isn’t a simple yes or no. It’s more like, “It depends—but let’s figure it out together.” Whether you’re a DIY home security enthusiast or just trying to make your smart home work without breaking the bank, understanding how Arlo cameras and base stations interact can save you time, money, and frustration. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about compatibility, setup, performance, and real-world tips from my own experience mixing and matching Arlo gear over the years.

Understanding Arlo Base Stations and Camera Compatibility

What Is an Arlo Base Station?

An Arlo base station acts like the “brain” of your home security system. It’s a small hub that connects to your Wi-Fi router and communicates with your Arlo cameras. Think of it as the middleman between your cameras and the Arlo app. It handles video storage (if you’re using local storage), manages firmware updates, and helps maintain a stable connection—especially for cameras that use proprietary wireless protocols instead of Wi-Fi.

For example, older Arlo cameras like the Arlo Pro, Arlo Pro 2, and Arlo Ultra use a 2.4 GHz wireless connection to the base station, not your home Wi-Fi. This helps reduce network congestion and improves battery life. Newer models, like the Arlo Essential series, connect directly to Wi-Fi, bypassing the need for a base station altogether.

Arlo Pro Base Station: Key Features and Models

The Arlo Pro base station (also called the Arlo SmartHub or VMB4000) was introduced with the original Arlo Pro system. It supports up to 15 Arlo cameras and includes features like:

• Local video storage via USB drive
• Two-way audio support
• Night vision and motion detection management
• Firmware updates for connected cameras

Later versions, like the Arlo Pro 2 base station (VMB4500) and Arlo Pro 3 base station (VMB4540), added support for higher-resolution cameras, improved encryption, and better range. But here’s the catch: while the hardware looks similar, not all base stations work with all cameras.

For instance, the original Arlo Pro base station (VMB4000) was designed for Arlo Pro and Pro 2 cameras. The Pro 3 base station (VMB4540) supports Pro 3, Pro 4, and even some Ultra models. But can you use a Pro base station with newer or older Arlo cameras? That’s where things get interesting.

Can I Use Arlo Cameras With Arlo Pro Base Station? The Compatibility Breakdown

Which Cameras Work With the Arlo Pro Base Station?

Let’s cut to the chase: Yes, you can use certain Arlo cameras with an Arlo Pro base station, but it depends on the specific model and generation. Here’s a practical breakdown:

• Arlo Pro (VMB4000): Works with Arlo Pro, Arlo Pro 2, and Arlo Go (LTE). Also compatible with Arlo Ultra (with limitations).
• Arlo Pro 2 (VMB4500): Supports Arlo Pro 2, Arlo Pro 3, Arlo Ultra, and Arlo Go.
• Arlo Pro 3 (VMB4540): Works with Arlo Pro 3, Pro 4, Ultra, and even Arlo Essential Wired (with firmware update).

So, if you have an original Arlo Pro base station (VMB4000) and want to add an Arlo Pro 2 camera? Totally doable. But what if you try to connect an Arlo Essential (wireless) to that same base station? Spoiler: It won’t work. The Essential series uses Wi-Fi only and doesn’t support base station pairing.

Real-World Example: Mixing Arlo Pro and Arlo Ultra

Here’s a story from my own setup. A few years ago, I had an Arlo Pro 2 system with three cameras and a VMB4500 base station. When Arlo Ultra came out, I bought one to try the 4K video and spotlight feature. I was relieved—and a little surprised—to find that it paired seamlessly with my existing base station. The Arlo app prompted me to update the base station firmware, and within minutes, the Ultra was online.

But here’s the kicker: the Ultra’s advanced features (like 4K streaming and HDR) were only available when the base station was connected to the internet. Without a strong Wi-Fi link, it defaulted to 1080p. So while the base station can handle newer cameras, performance depends on your network and firmware.

Cameras That Won’t Work With Arlo Pro Base Stations

Not all Arlo cameras are created equal. Here are models that cannot be used with any Arlo Pro base station:

• Arlo Essential (wireless): Connects directly to Wi-Fi. No base station support.
• Arlo Essential Indoor/Outdoor (wired): Requires Wi-Fi or Ethernet. Not compatible.
• Arlo Video Doorbell (all models): Standalone device. Uses Wi-Fi only.
• Arlo Baby: Wi-Fi-only. No hub pairing.

Trying to pair these with a base station will result in an error in the Arlo app: “Camera not compatible with this base station.” It’s frustrating, but at least the app tells you clearly why it failed.

How to Pair Arlo Cameras With an Arlo Pro Base Station (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Check Firmware and Model Numbers

Before you start, verify that your base station and camera are compatible. Look at the model numbers:

• Base station: VMB4000 (Pro), VMB4500 (Pro 2), VMB4540 (Pro 3/4)
• Cameras: AVD1001 (Pro), AVD2001 (Pro 2), AVD3001 (Pro 3), etc.

Also, ensure your base station is running the latest firmware. Open the Arlo app, go to Settings > My Devices > [Base Station] > Firmware Update. If an update is available, install it. This is crucial—older firmware may not recognize newer cameras.

Step 2: Reset the Camera (If Needed)

If your camera was previously paired with another base station, you’ll need to reset it:

1. Press and hold the sync button on the camera for 10 seconds until the LED flashes amber.
2. Wait for it to restart (LED turns blue).

This clears the old pairing and prepares the camera for a new connection.

Step 3: Add the Camera in the Arlo App

Now, open the Arlo app and follow these steps:

1. Tap Add Device > Camera > select your model.
2. Choose Connect to Base Station (not Wi-Fi).
3. The app will prompt you to press the sync button on the base station.
4. Press the sync button on the base station (LED will flash blue).
5. Press the sync button on the camera within 30 seconds.
6. Wait for the app to confirm pairing.

Tip: Do this close to the base station—within 10 feet. The wireless signal is stronger during setup.

Step 4: Test and Troubleshoot

Once paired, test the camera:

• Check live view in the app.
• Trigger motion detection (walk in front of it).
• Verify two-way audio (if supported).

If it fails, common fixes include:

• Reboot the base station and camera.
• Move the camera closer during pairing.
• Ensure no Wi-Fi interference (microwaves, cordless phones).
• Contact Arlo support for firmware-specific issues.

Performance, Limitations, and Real-World Trade-Offs

Video Quality and Streaming

When using newer cameras (like Arlo Ultra or Pro 4) with older base stations, you might notice a drop in video quality. For example:

• An Arlo Ultra paired with a VMB4000 base station will stream in 1080p, not 4K.
• HDR and color night vision may be disabled or limited.

Why? Older base stations lack the processing power and bandwidth to handle high-bitrate streams. It’s like putting a sports car on a dirt road—the car can go fast, but the road can’t handle it.

Battery Life and Range

Arlo Pro base stations use a proprietary 2.4 GHz wireless protocol with a range of about 300 feet (line of sight). In real-world conditions—through walls, trees, or metal—expect 100–200 feet.

Newer cameras like the Arlo Pro 3 and Ultra have better batteries and range, but they’re still limited by the base station. If your base station is in the basement and you’re trying to reach the backyard, you might get signal drops or delays.

Pro tip: Add an Arlo Range Extender (sold separately) to boost the signal. It plugs into an outlet and repeats the base station’s signal, adding up to 150 feet of range.

Local vs. Cloud Storage

One big advantage of using a base station is local storage. You can plug in a USB drive (up to 2TB) and store video clips without paying for cloud storage.

But here’s the catch: local storage only works if the base station supports the camera’s resolution. For example:

• Arlo Pro 3 (2K) on a VMB4540 base station? Yes, local storage works.
• Arlo Ultra (4K) on a VMB4000 base station? Local storage limited to 1080p clips.

Cloud storage (via Arlo Secure plan) gives you full resolution, but it’s a recurring cost. If you’re budget-conscious, local storage is a win—but only if your base station can handle it.

Data Table: Arlo Camera and Base Station Compatibility

Camera Model	VMB4000 (Pro)	VMB4500 (Pro 2)	VMB4540 (Pro 3/4)	Notes
Arlo Pro	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	Native support
Arlo Pro 2	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	Works on all Pro base stations
Arlo Pro 3	❌ No	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	Requires firmware update on VMB4500
Arlo Pro 4	❌ No	❌ No	✅ Yes	Needs VMB4540 or newer
Arlo Ultra	⚠️ Limited	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	4K only on VMB4540; 1080p on others
Arlo Essential (Wireless)	❌ No	❌ No	❌ No	Wi-Fi only; no base station support
Arlo Go	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	LTE camera; works on all Pro hubs

Note: ✅ = Full compatibility. ⚠️ = Limited functionality. ❌ = Not supported.

Final Thoughts: Should You Mix and Match?

So, can you use Arlo cameras with an Arlo Pro base station? Absolutely—but with caveats. The Arlo ecosystem is designed to be flexible, and many users successfully blend older and newer gear. I’ve seen people run Arlo Pro 2 cameras with a Pro 3 base station, or even add an Ultra to a VMB4500 hub. It works, and it can save you a lot of money.

But it’s not always plug-and-play. You’ll need to:

• Check model numbers and firmware.
• Accept some feature limitations (like lower video quality).
• Be prepared to troubleshoot connection issues.

For most people, the trade-off is worth it. Why buy a new base station if your old one still works? Reusing gear is sustainable, cost-effective, and often just as reliable. Just remember: the base station is the bottleneck. If you’re adding high-end cameras, make sure your hub can keep up.

At the end of the day, Arlo’s modular design lets you build the system you want—not the one the company forces on you. Whether you’re upgrading, expanding, or just trying to get the most out of what you already own, understanding compatibility gives you the power to make smart choices. So go ahead, pair that old base station with a new camera. Just do it with your eyes open—and maybe a USB drive ready for local storage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Arlo cameras with Arlo Pro base station?

Yes, most Arlo cameras are compatible with the Arlo Pro base station, including the Arlo Pro, Pro 2, and Ultra models. However, newer cameras like the Arlo Essential series may require the Arlo SmartHub for full functionality.

Which Arlo cameras work with the Arlo Pro base station?

The Arlo Pro base station supports Arlo Pro, Pro 2, Pro 3, Pro 4, and Ultra cameras. Older models like the original Arlo (VMC3030) also work, but newer standalone cameras (e.g., Essential) may not sync properly.

Do I need the Arlo Pro base station for Arlo Pro cameras?

While Arlo Pro cameras can technically connect directly to Wi-Fi, using the Arlo Pro base station ensures better connectivity, battery optimization, and local storage options. It’s recommended for the best performance.

Can I mix different Arlo cameras with the Arlo Pro base station?

Yes, you can pair multiple Arlo camera models (e.g., Pro 2 and Ultra) with the Arlo Pro base station. Just ensure each camera is added through the Arlo app for proper configuration.

Why won’t my Arlo camera connect to the Arlo Pro base station?

This could be due to compatibility issues (e.g., newer Arlo models requiring a SmartHub) or sync errors. Reset the camera and re-pair it via the Arlo app to troubleshoot.

Is the Arlo Pro base station required for 24/7 recording?

Yes, the Arlo Pro base station (or SmartHub) is needed for continuous 24/7 recording, as it supports local storage and reduces reliance on cloud subscriptions for extended footage retention.