Can You Add Arlo Pro Camera to Arlo System A Complete Guide

Yes, you can seamlessly add an Arlo Pro camera to your existing Arlo system, whether you’re expanding coverage or upgrading your security setup. Compatibility is guaranteed across most Arlo Pro models and hubs, making integration quick and hassle-free with the Arlo app. Just follow the simple sync process, and you’re ready to monitor more, stress less.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can add Arlo Pro cameras to most Arlo systems seamlessly.
• Check compatibility first using the Arlo app or official website.
• Sync via the Arlo app by following step-by-step setup instructions.
• Same base station works for Arlo Pro and other Arlo models.
• Firmware updates may be required to ensure smooth integration.
• Mix camera types freely for customized, multi-coverage security setups.

Can You Add Arlo Pro Camera to Arlo System? A Complete Guide

Imagine this: You’ve just moved into a new home and set up your Arlo Pro 3 cameras around the front door, backyard, and garage. Everything’s working great—until your neighbor mentions they’ve had a few late-night package thefts. Suddenly, you realize you need more coverage, maybe an extra camera for the side gate or the basement stairs. But here’s the question: Can you add an Arlo Pro camera to your existing Arlo system? You’re not alone in asking this. Many Arlo users wonder if their ecosystem is flexible enough to mix and match different models or expand as needs change.

The short answer? Yes, you can. But like any tech setup, it’s not always a plug-and-play experience. I’ve been through this exact scenario—adding a Pro 2 to a system of Pro 3s, upgrading firmware, and troubleshooting connectivity issues. What I learned wasn’t always obvious from the manuals. So, let’s walk through this together, step by step. Whether you’re a first-time Arlo user or a long-time subscriber, this guide will help you understand compatibility, setup, and real-world performance when mixing Arlo Pro cameras into your current system. No fluff, no hype—just honest advice from someone who’s done it.

Understanding Arlo Pro Camera Compatibility

Are All Arlo Pro Models Compatible?

Let’s start with the basics: Not all Arlo Pro cameras are created equal, but they’re mostly compatible with each other. The Arlo Pro lineup includes several models—Pro 2, Pro 3, Pro 4, and Pro 5S—each with incremental upgrades. The good news? They can coexist in the same system under one Arlo account. You can have a Pro 2 monitoring your front yard, a Pro 3 on the back porch, and a Pro 4 in the garage, all managed through the same app.

But here’s the catch: Compatibility depends on the base station or hub you’re using. For example, the original Arlo Pro and Pro 2 use a base station called the Arlo SmartHub (or VMB4000/VMB4500), while Pro 3 and later models often use the newer Arlo SmartHub (VMB5000) or connect directly to Wi-Fi (Pro 4 and 5S are wire-free and don’t require a base station).

Pro Tip: If you’re using an older base station (like VMB4000), it can support Pro 2 and Pro 3 cameras, but not Pro 4 or 5S. The newer VMB5000, however, supports Pro 2, Pro 3, Pro 4, and Pro 5S—making it the most flexible option for mixed setups.

What About Firmware and Software?

Firmware is the silent player in compatibility. Arlo regularly pushes updates to improve security, performance, and feature support. If you’re adding an older Pro 2 to a system with Pro 4s, you might run into issues if the Pro 2 hasn’t been updated in months.

When I added a Pro 2 to my Pro 3/4 setup, the app flagged a firmware update for the older camera. It took about 10 minutes to complete, and afterward, everything synced smoothly. The key takeaway? Always update your cameras before adding them to a newer system. You can do this through the Arlo app: go to Settings > My Devices > [Camera Name] > Firmware. If an update is available, install it first.

Also, ensure your Arlo app is up to date. Older versions may not recognize newer camera features or support mixed-model setups properly. I once spent 20 minutes troubleshooting why a Pro 3 wouldn’t pair—only to realize my app was two versions behind.

Step-by-Step Guide: Adding an Arlo Pro Camera to Your System

Pre-Setup Checklist

Before you hit the “Add Device” button, do this:

• Check your base station: If you’re using a VMB4000, you can add Pro 2/3. For Pro 4/5S, upgrade to VMB5000 or use Wi-Fi.
• Update all cameras and base stations: Go through each device in the app and update firmware.
• Charge the camera: If it’s wire-free (Pro 3/4/5S), ensure the battery is fully charged.
• Clear a spot on your network: Too many connected devices? Temporarily disable a few to free up bandwidth.

Pairing the Camera: Wired vs. Wire-Free

The process varies slightly depending on whether your new camera uses a base station or connects directly to Wi-Fi.

For Base Station Cameras (Pro 2/3):

1. Open the Arlo app and tap + > Add Device > Arlo Pro Series.
2. Follow the prompts to select your base station (e.g., VMB4000).
3. Press the Sync button on the base station (it’s a small recessed button—use a paperclip).
4. Within 15 seconds, press and hold the sync button on the camera for 3 seconds until the LED blinks.
5. The app will confirm pairing. Name the camera (e.g., “Side Gate”) and assign it to a location.

For Wi-Fi Cameras (Pro 4/5S):

1. In the app, tap + > Add Device > Arlo Pro 4/5S.
2. Scan the QR code on the camera or enter the serial number.
3. Connect to your Wi-Fi network. Use 2.4 GHz (not 5 GHz) for better range.
4. Wait for the camera to connect. The LED will turn solid blue.

My Experience: When I added a Pro 4 to my VMB5000-based system, the app handled the transition seamlessly. It even suggested optimal Wi-Fi channels to avoid interference. But with a Pro 2, I had to manually sync it to the base station—a minor extra step, but worth it for the added coverage.

Troubleshooting Common Pairing Issues

Not everything goes smoothly. Here’s what to do if:

• Camera won’t sync: Reset it by holding the sync button for 10 seconds. Recharge the battery. Move it closer to the base station/Wi-Fi router.
• App says “Device Not Found”: Restart the base station. Check for firmware updates. Ensure your phone has Bluetooth enabled (used during pairing).
• Wi-Fi connection fails: Double-check your password. Avoid special characters. If using a mesh network, connect to the main router first.

One time, my Pro 3 refused to sync because the base station’s firmware was outdated. Updating it fixed the issue in minutes.

Managing Mixed Arlo Pro Models in One System

App Interface: How It Handles Multiple Models

The Arlo app is surprisingly good at managing mixed setups. When you open the dashboard, you’ll see all cameras listed under “Devices,” with icons indicating their model (e.g., a “Pro 2” badge). Tapping a camera shows its unique settings, like:

• Pro 2: 1080p resolution, 2-way audio, 30-day cloud storage (with subscription).
• Pro 3: 2K HDR, color night vision, spotlight.
• Pro 4: 2K HDR, built-in siren, Wi-Fi-only.
• Pro 5S: 2K HDR, 12x zoom, solar-compatible.

This means you can customize motion detection zones, recording schedules, and alerts per camera. For example, I set my Pro 4 (garage) to record 24/7 but my Pro 2 (front yard) to only trigger on motion between 6 PM–6 AM.

Feature Limitations and Workarounds

Here’s where it gets tricky. Older models lack features found in newer ones. For instance:

• Pro 2: No HDR, no color night vision, no spotlight.
• Pro 3: No built-in siren (Pro 4 has one).

But don’t worry—you can work around these:

• Night vision: Place Pro 2s in well-lit areas (e.g., under a porch light). Use motion-activated lights to compensate.
• Spotlight: Pair a Pro 2 with an Arlo Smart Light (sold separately) for similar effect.
• Resolution: Use Pro 2s for general monitoring (e.g., driveway) and Pro 3/4s for high-traffic zones (e.g., front door).

Real-World Example: I use a Pro 2 for my backyard fence line (low traffic, decent lighting) and a Pro 4 for the front porch (high traffic, needs 2K detail). The mixed setup works because each camera is in a role that matches its strengths.

Subscription and Storage Considerations

Arlo’s subscription plans (Arlo Secure) offer cloud storage, AI detection, and emergency response. But here’s the kicker: Each camera requires its own subscription if you want cloud features. A 1-camera plan won’t cover a Pro 2 and a Pro 4.

Options:

• Single-camera plan: $2.99/month per camera (7-day cloud storage).

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• Multi-camera plan: $9.99/month for up to 5 cameras (30-day storage, AI detection).

If you’re on a budget, use local storage (via microSD card) for older cameras and cloud storage for newer ones. Pro 2/3/4 support microSD (up to 256GB), while Pro 5S supports up to 128GB.

Performance and Real-World Use: What to Expect

Video Quality and Night Vision

Let’s talk visuals. A Pro 2’s 1080p footage is clear but lacks the detail of a Pro 3’s 2K HDR. In daylight, the difference is subtle. At night, it’s dramatic. Pro 3/4/5S have color night vision (thanks to spotlights or IR sensors), while Pro 2 only offers black-and-white IR.

My Take: For a side gate with a porch light, the Pro 2’s IR is sufficient. But for a dark driveway, the Pro 4’s color night vision is a game-changer. One evening, I caught a raccoon knocking over my trash can in full color—thanks to the Pro 4’s spotlight.

Motion Detection Accuracy

Newer models (Pro 3+) use AI to distinguish between people, vehicles, and animals. Older models (Pro 2) rely on basic motion detection, which means more false alerts (e.g., a passing car or a swaying tree).

You can reduce false alerts on Pro 2 by:

• Adjusting the motion sensitivity in the app (lower for high-traffic areas).
• Creating custom motion zones (e.g., ignore the street, focus on the porch).
• Using a schedule (e.g., disable detection during windy afternoons).

Reliability and Connectivity

Wi-Fi cameras (Pro 4/5S) depend on signal strength. If your router is far away, the camera may disconnect. Base station cameras (Pro 2/3) are more stable—they connect to the hub via a proprietary 2.4 GHz network, which is less prone to interference.

For best results:

• Place Wi-Fi cameras within 30 feet of your router.
• Use a Wi-Fi extender if needed.
• For base station cameras, keep the hub centrally located (e.g., living room).

Data Table: Arlo Pro Model Comparison

Feature	Arlo Pro 2	Arlo Pro 3	Arlo Pro 4	Arlo Pro 5S
Resolution	1080p	2K HDR	2K HDR	2K HDR
Night Vision	Black & White IR	Color (Spotlight)	Color (Spotlight)	Color (Spotlight)
Base Station Required	Yes (VMB4000/4500)	Yes (VMB4000/4500/5000)	No (Wi-Fi)	No (Wi-Fi)
Local Storage	microSD (256GB)	microSD (256GB)	microSD (256GB)	microSD (128GB)
AI Detection	No	Yes (with subscription)	Yes (with subscription)	Yes (with subscription)
Price (New)	$149.99	$199.99	$229.99	$249.99

Note: Prices vary by retailer. Refurbished or older models may be cheaper.

Final Thoughts: Is Mixing Arlo Pro Cameras Worth It?

So, can you add an Arlo Pro camera to your existing system? Absolutely. But should you? That depends on your needs.

When it works:

• You need extra coverage without buying a whole new system.
• You’re on a budget and can find older models (Pro 2/3) on sale or refurbished.
• You want to test a new model (e.g., Pro 4) before committing to a full upgrade.

When to reconsider:

• Your base station is outdated (e.g., VMB3000). Upgrade the hub first.
• You need uniform features (e.g., all 2K, all AI detection). A mixed setup means managing different settings.
• You hate troubleshooting. Older cameras may require more maintenance.

From my experience, the flexibility of Arlo’s ecosystem is its biggest strength. I’ve added, removed, and upgraded cameras over the years, and the app handles it all gracefully. The key is planning: Know your base station’s limits, update firmware, and use each camera where it shines.

At the end of the day, your security system should adapt to your life—not the other way around. Whether you’re adding a single Pro 2 or expanding to a 10-camera setup, Arlo makes it possible. Just remember: Compatibility is there, but it’s up to you to make it work. With the right setup, you’ll have a robust, scalable system that grows with your needs—no matter which Arlo Pro model you choose.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you add an Arlo Pro camera to an existing Arlo system?

Yes, you can seamlessly add an Arlo Pro camera to most Arlo systems, including base stations or hubs from the same generation. Ensure compatibility by checking your system’s model and firmware version before setup.

What Arlo systems are compatible with the Arlo Pro camera?

The Arlo Pro camera works with Arlo Pro, Pro 2, Pro 3, and Ultra base stations, as well as the Arlo SmartHub. Mixing generations may require a firmware update to enable full functionality.

How do I add an Arlo Pro camera to my Arlo system?

Open the Arlo app, select “Add Device,” and follow the prompts to sync your Arlo Pro camera with your existing system. Ensure your base station or hub is online during setup.

Can I mix Arlo Pro cameras with other Arlo camera models in one system?

Yes, Arlo systems support mixing Pro, Essential, Ultra, and other models, but some features may be limited to specific camera types. The Arlo app will manage all devices in a unified dashboard.

Do I need a new subscription plan when adding an Arlo Pro camera to my system?

Adding an Arlo Pro camera doesn’t require a new plan, but recording features depend on your existing Arlo Secure subscription tier. Free accounts have limited cloud storage and smart alerts.

Why isn’t my Arlo Pro camera connecting to my Arlo system?

Check for firmware updates, ensure your base station or hub has a stable internet connection, and verify the camera is within range. Reboot devices and retry the setup process if issues persist.