Can You Add Arlo Pro 2 Camera to Arlo Pro System Easily

Yes, you can seamlessly add an Arlo Pro 2 camera to an existing Arlo Pro system thanks to full cross-compatibility within the Arlo ecosystem. Setup is quick and requires no extra hubs—just sync the camera via the Arlo app and enjoy enhanced 1080p video and advanced motion detection alongside your current setup.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, it’s compatible: Arlo Pro 2 cameras work seamlessly with Arlo Pro base stations.
• Same ecosystem: Both use the Arlo app for unified setup and control.
• No extra hub needed: Add Pro 2 cameras directly to your existing Arlo Pro system.
• Sync in minutes: Follow in-app prompts to pair new cameras effortlessly.
• Feature consistency: Pro 2 enhances your system with 1080p and motion detection.
• Expand freely: Mix Pro and Pro 2 cameras for a flexible security setup.

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

When I first got into home security, I was overwhelmed by the number of options available. I ended up choosing the Arlo Pro system for its sleek design and reliable performance. A few months later, I saw the Arlo Pro 2 and wondered if I could add it to my existing setup. After all, I wanted better resolution and some of the new features—but I didn’t want to replace my entire system. Sound familiar? If you’re asking, “Can you add Arlo Pro 2 camera to Arlo Pro system?” you’re not alone. Many Arlo users face this dilemma.

Before we dive into compatibility, it helps to understand the key differences between the two models. The original Arlo Pro launched as a major upgrade from the base Arlo system, offering 720p HD video, two-way audio, and a 130-degree field of view. It was a game-changer for indoor and outdoor monitoring. Then came the Arlo Pro 2, which bumped up the video quality to 1080p Full HD, improved night vision, and added activity zones and optional cloud storage for 30-day video history. Both models are wireless, weather-resistant, and connect to a central base station. But does that mean they play nice together?

Key Features Compared

• Video Quality: Arlo Pro = 720p HD, Arlo Pro 2 = 1080p Full HD

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• Field of View: Both offer 130 degrees (horizontal)
• Night Vision: Arlo Pro 2 has enhanced infrared LEDs for clearer low-light footage
• Audio: Two-way talk on both models
• Weather Resistance: IP65 rating on both (great for outdoor use)
• Activity Zones: Only available on Arlo Pro 2
• Local Recording: Both support USB storage via the base station
• Smart Alerts: Arlo Pro 2 offers more refined motion detection

So, while the Arlo Pro 2 is clearly an upgrade in specs, the real question is whether it can integrate smoothly with your older Arlo Pro base station and cameras. The good news? Yes, it can—but there are some nuances. Let’s break it down.

Can You Add Arlo Pro 2 Camera to Arlo Pro System? The Compatibility Breakdown

Let’s get straight to the point: yes, you can add an Arlo Pro 2 camera to an existing Arlo Pro system. But it’s not as simple as just plugging it in and calling it a day. There are a few technical and operational considerations to keep in mind.

Base Station Compatibility

The heart of any Arlo system is the base station (also called the hub). The Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2 both use the same VMB4000 base station model. This is a big win for compatibility. If you already have an Arlo Pro system, your base station will physically and technically support adding an Arlo Pro 2 camera.

For example, I had three Arlo Pro cameras connected to my VMB4000. When I bought an Arlo Pro 2 for the front yard (where I wanted better clarity), I simply added it through the Arlo app. The base station recognized it immediately. No extra hardware needed. That’s the magic of shared infrastructure.

App and Software Support

The Arlo app (available on iOS and Android) is designed to handle mixed camera generations. When you add a new camera, the app detects its model and adjusts the interface accordingly. So, your Arlo Pro 2 will show activity zones and 1080p settings, while your older Pro cameras will display their 720p options.

One thing I noticed: the app doesn’t force you to upgrade your entire system. You can manage both types of cameras side by side. For instance, I use activity zones only on the Pro 2 (to avoid alerts from passing cars), but I rely on standard motion detection on the older Pro cameras. The app lets you customize each camera individually.

Firmware and Updates

Here’s where things get a little sticky. Arlo occasionally pushes firmware updates that may prioritize newer hardware. In my experience, the base station and all connected cameras update automatically, but sometimes the Pro 2 gets new features first. For example, when Arlo introduced “Smart Alerts” (distinguishing between people, packages, and vehicles), the Pro 2 got it a month before the original Pro.

That said, both models stay functional and secure. The older Pro cameras won’t stop working just because a new firmware drops. But if you’re chasing the latest AI-powered features, you might notice a slight delay. It’s a trade-off, but not a dealbreaker.

Real-World Example

My friend Sarah upgraded her backyard camera to Arlo Pro 2 while keeping her original Pro cameras for side and back doors. She told me, “The picture is sharper, and I love the activity zones. But I didn’t have to buy a new base station or reconfigure my whole system. It just worked.” Her experience mirrors what most users report: adding a Pro 2 to a Pro system is seamless if you follow the steps in the app.

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

Ready to add that shiny new Arlo Pro 2 to your setup? Great! Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide based on my own experience and Arlo’s official recommendations. I’ll keep it simple—no tech jargon, just practical steps.

Step 1: Check Your Base Station

First, confirm you have the VMB4000 base station. If you’re unsure, look at the label on the back or bottom. It should say “Model: VMB4000.” If you have an older model (like VMB3000), you may need to upgrade the base station first. But if you’re using Arlo Pro already, you’re good to go.

Step 2: Charge the Arlo Pro 2 Camera

Unbox the Arlo Pro 2 and plug it into the included charging cable. Let it charge for at least 30 minutes—even if the battery shows 100%. This ensures it has enough power for setup. I learned this the hard way once: I rushed the process, and the camera died mid-pairing. Not fun.

Step 3: Open the Arlo App

On your smartphone or tablet, open the Arlo app. Tap the menu (usually three lines in the top left), then select “Add Device”. Choose “Arlo Pro 2” from the list. The app will prompt you to scan the QR code on the camera or enter the serial number manually.

Step 4: Pair the Camera with the Base Station

Here’s the key step: you’ll need to press the sync button on the base station (located on the side or back). Hold it for 2 seconds until the LED blinks blue. Then, within 60 seconds, press and hold the sync button on the Arlo Pro 2 camera until the LED blinks blue. The app should detect both and pair them automatically.

Pro tip: Do this within 10 feet of the base station. I once tried pairing from across the house and it failed. Distance matters during sync.

Step 5: Name and Position the Camera

Once paired, the app will ask you to name the camera (e.g., “Front Yard” or “Back Porch”). You can also set up activity zones, adjust motion sensitivity, and schedule recordings here. Take your time—this is where you customize the Pro 2’s advanced features.

Step 6: Mount and Test

Now, mount the camera using the included magnetic mount or wall bracket. Aim it where you want coverage, then test it in the app. Check the live feed, night vision, and motion detection. I always wave my arm in front of the camera to trigger an alert and confirm it’s working.

Bonus Tips for Smooth Setup

• Wi-Fi Signal: Ensure your base station has a strong Wi-Fi connection. A weak signal can cause pairing issues.
• App Updates: Update the Arlo app to the latest version before starting.
• Reset if Needed: If pairing fails, reset the camera (hold sync button for 10 seconds) and try again.
• Label Batteries: If you use rechargeable batteries, label them by camera to avoid mix-ups.

Follow these steps, and you’ll have your Arlo Pro 2 up and running in under 20 minutes. It’s really that simple!

Performance and User Experience: Mixing Generations

Now that you’ve added the Arlo Pro 2 to your system, how does it actually perform alongside your older Pro cameras? Let’s talk real-world performance, not just specs.

Video Quality: A Noticeable Upgrade

The jump from 720p to 1080p is very noticeable. I have an Arlo Pro 2 covering my driveway and an original Pro on the front door. When a delivery person arrives, the Pro 2 captures clear details: the logo on their shirt, the color of the package, even the make of their van. The Pro camera gives me a decent view, but it’s fuzzier—like watching a VHS tape vs. Blu-ray.

For critical areas (like entry points or high-traffic zones), the Pro 2’s clarity is worth the upgrade. But for less important spots, the Pro’s 720p is still plenty useful.

Motion Detection and Alerts

The Pro 2’s activity zones and smart alerts are a game-changer. I set a zone for my driveway and disabled alerts for the sidewalk. Now, I only get notified when someone approaches my property—not every passing dog walker. The original Pro lacks this feature, so I get more false alerts. But that’s a feature gap, not a flaw.

Both cameras send alerts quickly (usually within 5–10 seconds of motion). I’ve never had a delay that made a difference in security.

Night Vision and Audio

The Pro 2’s night vision is brighter and more detailed. In pitch-black conditions, it captures faces and license plates better. The original Pro still works at night, but the image is grainier. Two-way audio works well on both—I can clearly hear and speak to someone at my door, even from another room.

App Interface and Management

The Arlo app handles mixed generations beautifully. All cameras appear in one list, and you can filter by model, location, or status. I love that I can tap a camera to see its specs (like resolution and battery level) without digging through menus.

One minor annoyance: the app occasionally lumps recordings together by time, not by camera type. So if I want to review only Pro 2 footage, I have to scroll through Pro clips too. A small price to pay for flexibility.

Battery Life

Both cameras use rechargeable batteries, but the Pro 2’s higher resolution and features drain power slightly faster. I get about 2–3 months per charge with the Pro 2 (with moderate use), compared to 3–4 months with the original Pro. Still, both are excellent for wireless cameras.

Pros and Cons of Mixing Arlo Pro 2 with Arlo Pro

Like any tech upgrade, mixing Arlo Pro 2 with older Pro cameras has upsides and downsides. Let’s break them down honestly.

Pros

• Cost-Effective Upgrade: You don’t need to replace your base station or existing cameras. Save money while improving coverage.
• Flexibility: Use Pro 2 for critical areas and Pro for secondary spots. Tailor your system to your needs.
• Same App Experience: No learning curve. The app works the same way for both models.
• Shared Cloud Plans: Arlo’s subscription plans (like 30-day cloud storage) apply to all cameras, regardless of generation.
• Local Storage Compatibility: Both cameras record to the same USB drive on the base station. No extra hardware needed.

Cons

• Feature Imbalance: Pro 2 has activity zones and smart alerts; Pro doesn’t. You’ll miss out on advanced features for older cameras.
• Firmware Delays: New features may roll out to Pro 2 first, leaving Pro cameras behind temporarily.
• Mixed Video Quality: Footage won’t be uniform. If you export clips, the resolution varies by camera.
• Battery Drain: Pro 2 uses more power due to higher resolution and features. You’ll charge it more often.
• Aesthetic Mismatch: Pro 2 has a slightly different design (sleeker, with a black ring). Not a big deal, but noticeable up close.

When Mixing Makes Sense

Mixing works best if:

• You want to upgrade gradually without breaking the bank.
• You have specific high-priority areas (e.g., front door) where 1080p matters.
• You’re happy with your current base station and don’t want to reconfigure Wi-Fi or storage.

But if you’re starting from scratch or want every camera to have the same features, consider a full Pro 2 (or newer) system. It’s more consistent.

Data Table: Arlo Pro vs. Arlo Pro 2 – Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature	Arlo Pro	Arlo Pro 2	Compatibility with Pro System
Resolution	720p HD	1080p Full HD	✅ Yes (mixed quality)
Field of View	130°	130°	✅ Identical
Night Vision	Standard IR	Enhanced IR (brighter)	✅ Yes (different performance)
Audio	Two-way talk	Two-way talk	✅ Identical
Activity Zones	❌ No	✅ Yes	⚠️ Pro 2 only
Smart Alerts	❌ No	✅ Yes (person/vehicle/package)	⚠️ Pro 2 only
Base Station	VMB4000	VMB4000	✅ Shared
Cloud Storage	7-day free, 30-day paid	7-day free, 30-day paid	✅ Shared plan
Battery Life	3–4 months (typical)	2–3 months (typical)	⚠️ Pro 2 drains faster
Weather Resistance	IP65	IP65	✅ Identical

This table shows why the two cameras work well together. The shared base station and app support make integration easy, even though the Pro 2 has more advanced features.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth Adding an Arlo Pro 2 to Your Pro System?

After months of using both Arlo Pro and Pro 2 cameras in my home, I can confidently say: yes, it’s worth it—if you approach it with realistic expectations.

The Arlo Pro 2 brings clear upgrades: sharper video, better night vision, and smarter alerts. For areas where detail matters (like your front door or driveway), it’s a worthwhile investment. And the fact that you can add it to your existing Arlo Pro system without replacing your base station or other cameras makes it a smart, budget-friendly move.

But remember: you’re mixing generations. Your Pro cameras won’t magically gain 1080p or activity zones. You’ll have to live with some feature gaps. And while the app handles mixed systems well, you’ll need to adjust your expectations for uniformity.

For me, the trade-off is worth it. I get the best of both worlds: the reliability of my original Pro system and the cutting-edge features of the Pro 2 where I need them most. Plus, I didn’t have to spend hundreds on a full upgrade.

So, can you add an Arlo Pro 2 camera to an Arlo Pro system easily? Absolutely. Just follow the steps, keep the limitations in mind, and enjoy the flexibility of a hybrid setup. It’s a great way to future-proof your security system—one camera at a time.

And hey, if you’re still unsure, start with one Pro 2. Test it out. See how it fits into your routine. Most Arlo retailers offer easy returns if it doesn’t work for you. But chances are, once you see that 1080p clarity in action, you’ll be hooked.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, the Arlo Pro 2 cameras are fully compatible with the original Arlo Pro base station. Both systems use the same 2.4GHz Wi-Fi and Arlo app, making integration seamless.

Do I need to upgrade my Arlo Pro base station to use Arlo Pro 2 cameras?

No, the original Arlo Pro base station supports Arlo Pro 2 cameras without requiring hardware upgrades. Simply sync the new cameras via the Arlo app as you would with existing Pro units.

How do I add an Arlo Pro 2 camera to my existing Arlo Pro setup?

Open the Arlo app, tap “Add Device,” and follow the prompts to sync your Arlo Pro 2. The process is identical to adding another Arlo Pro camera, ensuring a quick setup.

Will mixing Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2 cameras affect system performance?

No, mixing these models won’t impact performance. Both support 720p/1080p streaming and share features like motion detection and night vision, so they work harmoniously together.

Can you add Arlo Pro 2 camera to Arlo Pro system if using different subscription plans?

Yes, cameras on different subscription tiers (e.g., Pro with free plan, Pro 2 with paid plan) can coexist. Each camera’s features and cloud storage depend on its individual plan.

Are there any limitations when combining Arlo Pro 2 with older Arlo Pro cameras?

The only minor limitation is that newer Pro 2-exclusive features (like 1080p zoom) won’t apply to older Pro cameras. However, core functionality like live streaming and alerts remain unified.