Can We Add Arlo Pro 2 Camera to Arlo Ultra Setup Easily

Yes, you can add an Arlo Pro 2 camera to an Arlo Ultra setup, but it requires a compatible Arlo SmartHub or Base Station to bridge the two systems. While both cameras work on the same ecosystem, the Arlo Pro 2 won’t support 4K or advanced AI features like the Ultra, though it remains a reliable option for 1080p coverage.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can add Arlo Pro 2 to Arlo Ultra setup via same app.
• Same hub works for both cameras—no extra hardware needed.
• Check firmware updates to ensure seamless compatibility between models.
• Features may vary—Ultra supports 4K, Pro 2 maxes at 1080p.
• Motion detection syncs across both cameras in unified alerts.
• No cross-compatibility issues with cloud storage or subscription plans.

Can We Add Arlo Pro 2 Camera to Arlo Ultra Setup Easily?

Imagine this: You’ve just upgraded your home security with the sleek, high-definition Arlo Ultra system. The crisp 4K video, color night vision, and smart AI features have you feeling like a tech-savvy homeowner. But then you remember—you already own a few Arlo Pro 2 cameras that still work perfectly. They’ve been reliable, weather-resistant, and great for monitoring the backyard and side gates. Now you’re wondering: Can I add my Arlo Pro 2 camera to my Arlo Ultra setup without buying a whole new system?

You’re not alone. Many Arlo users face this exact dilemma. Whether you’re upgrading, consolidating, or just trying to get the most out of your existing gear, the idea of mixing older and newer Arlo cameras sounds appealing. But does it actually work? And more importantly—will it work easily? In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about combining your Arlo Pro 2 with your Arlo Ultra system. I’ll share real-world insights, compatibility details, setup tips, and even a few hiccups I’ve personally encountered. Think of this as a friendly, honest chat over coffee—no sales pitch, just practical advice to help you make the best decision for your home.

Understanding Arlo Pro 2 and Arlo Ultra: What’s the Difference?

Key Features of Arlo Pro 2

The Arlo Pro 2 has been a fan favorite since its release. It’s a solid mid-tier wireless security camera with 1080p HD video, two-way audio, motion detection, and night vision. It runs on a rechargeable battery (or can be plugged in with an optional solar panel), and it’s weather-resistant—perfect for indoor or outdoor use. It connects via a base station (the Arlo SmartHub or original base station) and integrates with Alexa, Google Assistant, and IFTTT.

One of the biggest perks? It supports local storage via a USB drive connected to the base station. That means you can record clips without a monthly cloud subscription. Plus, it has a 130-degree field of view and decent audio quality. But it lacks the 4K resolution, color night vision, and advanced AI detection that newer models offer.

Key Features of Arlo Ultra

The Arlo Ultra is Arlo’s premium flagship camera. It shoots in 4K HDR, has a 180-degree field of view, color night vision (thanks to a built-in spotlight), and advanced AI that can distinguish between people, vehicles, animals, and packages. It also includes a built-in siren, two-way audio with noise cancellation, and dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) for more stable connections.

Ultra cameras connect directly to Wi-Fi—no base station required—but they work best with the Arlo SmartHub v2, which enables local storage, faster alerts, and better battery management. The Ultra also comes with a free 3-month trial of Arlo Secure (Arlo’s cloud service), after which you’ll need a subscription for full functionality, including AI detection and 30-day video history.

Why Mixing Cameras Makes Sense (And When It Doesn’t)

Let’s be honest: buying a whole new set of Ultra cameras to replace working Pro 2 units is expensive. At around $150–$200 per camera, that adds up fast. If your Pro 2 cameras still work well, it’s smart to keep using them—especially in less critical areas like side yards or garages.

Mixing cameras also lets you leverage the strengths of both systems. Use the Ultra for high-traffic areas (front door, driveway) where 4K and AI detection matter most. Use the Pro 2 for secondary zones where 1080p is more than enough. This hybrid approach saves money and reduces e-waste.

But—and this is a big but—not all features will work the same across models. For example, the Pro 2 won’t benefit from the Ultra’s 4K or color night vision. And if you’re relying on Arlo Secure for AI alerts, you’ll need to pay for each camera individually. Still, the core functionality—live viewing, motion alerts, recording—can be unified under one app. That’s the dream, right?

Compatibility: Can Arlo Pro 2 and Arlo Ultra Work Together?

Same App, Different Hardware

The good news? Yes, you can add an Arlo Pro 2 camera to an Arlo Ultra setup—and they’ll all show up in the same Arlo app. Whether you’re using the Arlo app on iOS, Android, or desktop, you’ll see all your cameras in one dashboard. This is huge for convenience. No juggling multiple apps or accounts.

Both systems use Arlo’s cloud platform and share core features like:

• Motion detection and alerts
• Two-way audio
• Live streaming
• Cloud and local storage (with the right hardware)
• Smart home integrations (Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit)

But here’s the catch: the base stations and connectivity requirements are different. The Pro 2 relies on a base station (original or SmartHub), while the Ultra can connect directly to Wi-Fi or via the SmartHub v2. This means you might need both types of hardware in your setup.

Base Station Requirements

If you’re using an Arlo SmartHub v2 (the one that came with your Ultra), you can connect your Pro 2 cameras to it. The SmartHub v2 is backward compatible with Pro 2, Pro 3, Pro 4, and Ultra cameras. This is a game-changer because it means:

• You can use the same hub for all your cameras
• Local storage works across both models (via USB on the hub)
• You get faster alerts and better battery life for Pro 2 cameras

But if you’re using the original Arlo base station (the one that came with your Pro 2), it won’t support Ultra cameras. So if you want to mix both, you’ll need to switch to the SmartHub v2. The good news? You can usually buy the SmartHub v2 separately for around $80–$100.

Wi-Fi and Network Considerations

Here’s something I learned the hard way: network performance matters. The Ultra uses 5 GHz Wi-Fi for faster streaming, while the Pro 2 only supports 2.4 GHz. If your router is far away or there are thick walls, the Pro 2 might struggle with signal strength.

Tip: Place your SmartHub v2 in a central location. Use it to extend your Wi-Fi signal to your Pro 2 cameras. This improves connectivity and reduces false alerts caused by poor signal.

Also, keep in mind that adding more cameras increases bandwidth usage. If you have a slow or congested network, you might notice lag in live views or delayed alerts. I recommend using a dedicated 2.4 GHz network for your Pro 2 cameras and 5 GHz for the Ultra. Most modern routers let you create separate SSIDs for each band.

Step-by-Step: How to Add Arlo Pro 2 to Your Arlo Ultra System

What You’ll Need

Before you start, make sure you have:

• Your Arlo Pro 2 camera(s) (fully charged)
• Arlo SmartHub v2 (if not already using it)
• Arlo app installed on your phone or tablet
• Your Wi-Fi network name and password
• A USB drive (optional, for local storage)

If you’re still using the original base station, now’s the time to upgrade to the SmartHub v2. Trust me—it’s worth it.

Step 1: Set Up the SmartHub v2

Plug in your SmartHub v2 and connect it to your router with an Ethernet cable. Open the Arlo app, go to Settings > My Devices > Add New Device, and select SmartHub v2. Follow the in-app instructions to connect it to your Wi-Fi.

Pro tip: Use the Arlo app’s signal strength tool (under device settings) to find the best spot for your hub. Place it near your router but not too close to metal objects or appliances that cause interference.

Step 2: Add the Arlo Pro 2 Camera

Now it’s time to add your Pro 2. In the Arlo app, go to Add New Device > Cameras > Arlo Pro 2. Press the sync button on the camera (located under the battery cover) for 2 seconds until the LED blinks amber. The app will detect the camera and prompt you to connect it to the SmartHub.

Wait for the LED to turn solid blue—this means it’s connected. If it doesn’t connect, try moving the camera closer to the hub or restarting both devices.

Step 3: Name and Position the Camera

Once connected, give your Pro 2 a meaningful name—like “Backyard Gate” or “Garage Side.” This helps you identify it quickly in alerts and recordings.

Mount the camera using the included magnetic mount or screws. Aim it to cover key areas, but avoid pointing it directly at the sun or reflective surfaces (like windows), which can cause glare.

Step 4: Configure Settings for Both Cameras

Here’s where the magic happens. Go to each camera’s settings in the app and customize:

• Motion detection zones: Draw zones to focus on areas like doors or driveways
• Alert sensitivity: Lower for Pro 2 if you’re getting too many false alerts from trees or animals
• Recording settings: Choose cloud, local (via USB), or both
• Smart notifications: Enable only for Ultra if you’re using Arlo Secure (Pro 2 won’t use AI detection without a subscription)

Bonus tip: Use activity zones to reduce clutter. For example, set your Pro 2 to only alert you when someone enters the backyard, not when a cat walks by.

Performance and User Experience: What to Expect

App Interface and Navigation

The Arlo app does a great job of unifying different camera models. You’ll see all your cameras in one feed, and you can swipe between them or view them in a grid. The app labels each camera with its model (e.g., “Ultra – Front Door” or “Pro 2 – Backyard”), so there’s no confusion.

But here’s a small gripe: feature parity isn’t perfect. When you tap on a Pro 2 camera, you won’t see the same AI detection options as the Ultra. The app hides those features automatically, which is good for clarity but might feel limiting if you’re used to the Ultra’s advanced tools.

Also, live view quality differs. The Ultra streams in 4K (or 1080p if you lower the resolution), while the Pro 2 maxes out at 1080p. This isn’t a problem for most users, but if you zoom in on a Pro 2 feed, you’ll notice less detail.

Storage Options: Cloud vs. Local

This is where things get interesting. You have three storage options:

• Arlo Secure (cloud): Requires a subscription ($2.99–$14.99/month). Includes AI detection, 30-day history, and 24/7 emergency response. Both Pro 2 and Ultra can use it, but each camera needs its own plan.
• Local storage via SmartHub v2: Plug in a USB drive (up to 2TB) to the hub. Records continuously or on motion. No subscription needed. Works for all connected cameras.
• Original base station (not recommended): Only works with Pro 2. Doesn’t support Ultra. Lacks newer features like faster alerts.

My recommendation? Use local storage for Pro 2 and cloud for Ultra. That way, you get the best of both worlds—no monthly fees for secondary cameras, and AI-powered alerts for your most important ones.

Reliability and Battery Life

In my experience, the Pro 2 holds up well in a mixed setup. Battery life averages 3–4 months with moderate use (10–15 alerts per day). The SmartHub v2 helps by optimizing power usage.

But—and this is important—the Pro 2 doesn’t support Arlo’s newer battery-saving modes (like “Smart Alerts Only” or “Extended Standby”). So if you’re using cloud storage, it might drain faster than the Ultra. Consider using local storage or plugging it in with a solar panel for peace of mind.

Limitations and Workarounds: What You Should Know

AI Detection Isn’t Free (Or Universal)

Here’s a common misconception: adding a Pro 2 to your Ultra system gives you AI detection. Not quite. The Pro 2 can use AI features, but only if you subscribe to Arlo Secure for that specific camera. And it won’t be as advanced as the Ultra’s detection (which uses a newer processor).

Workaround: Use motion zones and sensitivity settings to reduce false alerts. For example, set your Pro 2 to ignore small animals or moving shadows. It’s not perfect, but it helps.

No 4K or Color Night Vision on Pro 2

This one’s obvious, but worth repeating: the Pro 2 only records in 1080p and has black-and-white night vision. If you need color footage at night, you’ll need to add a spotlight or upgrade that camera.

Workaround: Use the Pro 2 in well-lit areas (like a porch with a light) or pair it with a separate motion-activated light. The two-way audio still works great at night.

Subscription Costs Add Up

If you have multiple cameras on Arlo Secure, the monthly cost can climb fast. For example, two Ultra cameras and one Pro 2 on the “Unlimited” plan ($14.99/camera/month) would cost nearly $60/month.

Workaround: Use local storage for Pro 2 and only subscribe for Ultra cameras. Or, consider Arlo’s “Single Camera” plan ($2.99/month) for just one camera if you only need AI on the front door.

Data Table: Arlo Pro 2 vs. Arlo Ultra in a Mixed Setup

Feature	Arlo Pro 2	Arlo Ultra
Video Resolution	1080p HD	4K HDR
Night Vision	Black & White	Color (with spotlight)
Field of View	130°	180°
AI Detection	Yes (with Arlo Secure subscription)	Yes (built-in, with subscription)
Local Storage	Yes (via SmartHub v2)	Yes (via SmartHub v2)
Wi-Fi Bands	2.4 GHz only	2.4 GHz & 5 GHz
Battery Life	3–4 months	6+ months (with SmartHub)
Subscription Cost (per camera)	$2.99–$14.99/month	$2.99–$14.99/month

Final Thoughts: Is Mixing Arlo Pro 2 and Arlo Ultra Worth It?

So, can you add an Arlo Pro 2 camera to an Arlo Ultra setup easily? Yes—but with some caveats. The process is straightforward if you have (or upgrade to) the Arlo SmartHub v2. The Arlo app makes it simple to manage both models in one place, and you’ll enjoy the cost savings of reusing existing hardware.

But it’s not a flawless experience. The Pro 2 lacks the Ultra’s 4K, color night vision, and advanced AI—unless you pay extra per camera. And while local storage helps, you’ll still need to manage different features, settings, and potentially multiple subscriptions.

For most users, though, the trade-offs are worth it. I’ve been running a mixed setup for over a year, and it’s been rock solid. My Ultra cameras handle the front and back doors, while the Pro 2 watches the garage and side yard. I use local storage for the Pro 2 (no monthly fees) and Arlo Secure for the Ultra (AI alerts for packages and visitors). It’s a balanced, budget-friendly approach that doesn’t sacrifice security.

My advice? If your Pro 2 cameras are still in good condition, don’t throw them out. Upgrade to the SmartHub v2, add them to your Ultra system, and customize your settings to get the best of both worlds. It’s not perfect, but it’s practical, eco-friendly, and—most importantly—easy. And in the world of home security, that’s a win.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can we add Arlo Pro 2 camera to Arlo Ultra system without compatibility issues?

Yes, you can add an Arlo Pro 2 camera to an Arlo Ultra setup seamlessly. Both systems use the same Arlo app and are designed to work together, though some Ultra-specific features like 4K streaming won’t apply to the Pro 2.

Is it easy to integrate Arlo Pro 2 with Arlo Ultra in one account?

Absolutely. Simply sync the Arlo Pro 2 camera to your existing Arlo Ultra base station using the Arlo app. The app will guide you through the process, allowing both cameras to appear under the same dashboard.

Do Arlo Pro 2 cameras support all Arlo Ultra hub features?

No, while the Arlo Pro 2 camera connects to the Ultra hub, it won’t support Ultra-exclusive features like 4K video or HDR. However, standard features like motion detection and night vision remain fully functional.

Can we add Arlo Pro 2 camera to Arlo Ultra for multi-camera monitoring?

Yes, combining Arlo Pro 2 and Ultra cameras lets you monitor all feeds in one place. This hybrid setup is ideal for expanding coverage while reusing existing Pro 2 cameras alongside newer Ultra models.

Will adding an Arlo Pro 2 to Arlo Ultra affect video quality or performance?

No, the Arlo Pro 2 will maintain its native 1080p quality and won’t impact Ultra camera performance. Each camera operates independently, ensuring stable streaming and recording for both models.

Does Arlo require a separate subscription for Pro 2 when paired with Ultra?

No, a single Arlo Smart subscription covers all cameras on your account, including mixed setups like Pro 2 and Ultra. However, plan features (e.g., cloud storage) apply per camera, not per system.