Can You Add More Cameras to Arlo Pro 2 A Complete Guide

Yes, you can add more cameras to your Arlo Pro 2 system, making it easy to expand your home security coverage as needed. The base kit supports up to 15 cameras, allowing seamless integration of additional indoor or outdoor units through the same hub and app—no extra hardware required.

Key Takeaways

• Expand easily: Add more Arlo Pro 2 cameras anytime to your existing system.
• Base station limit: Supports up to 5 cameras per base station for optimal performance.
• Wi-Fi dependency: Ensure strong Wi-Fi signal for seamless multi-camera connectivity.
• Subscription benefits: More cameras may require higher-tier cloud storage plans.
• Mix models: Combine Arlo Pro 2 with other Arlo cameras for flexible setups.
• Sync button: Use the base station’s sync button to add cameras quickly.

Can You Add More Cameras to Arlo Pro 2? A Complete Guide

Imagine this: you’ve just installed your Arlo Pro 2 security system. You love how the crisp 1080p video looks on your phone. You feel safer knowing your front porch is being watched 24/7. But then you start thinking—what about the backyard? The side gate? The garage? Suddenly, one camera doesn’t feel like enough.

You’re not alone. Many Arlo Pro 2 users quickly realize that their home security needs go beyond a single camera. Whether you’re a homeowner with a sprawling yard, a small business owner, or just someone who values peace of mind, you’ve probably asked yourself: “Can I add more cameras to my Arlo Pro 2 system?” The good news? You absolutely can. But like any tech setup, there are a few things you should know before hitting “Add Camera” in the app.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about expanding your Arlo Pro 2 system. We’ll cover compatibility, setup, costs, performance, and even some real-world tips from my own experience. Whether you’re adding two extra cameras or building a full 10-camera network, this guide will help you do it right—without the headaches.

Understanding the Arlo Pro 2 Ecosystem

The Arlo Pro 2 isn’t just a camera. It’s part of a smart home ecosystem designed to scale. But to expand it properly, you need to understand how it all works together.

How the Arlo Pro 2 System Works

The core of the system is the Arlo Pro 2 base station (also called the SmartHub). This little white box connects to your home Wi-Fi and acts as the brain of your security setup. Each camera communicates with the base station via a secure 2.4 GHz wireless connection—not directly to your router. This means your cameras don’t clutter your Wi-Fi network, which is a big plus.

The base station also stores local video backups (if you use an SD card), manages alerts, and syncs with the Arlo app. All cameras in your system—whether it’s 2 or 10—must connect to the same base station.

One thing to note: the Arlo Pro 2 is a wire-free system. That means each camera runs on rechargeable batteries. You charge them every few months (depending on usage), and they can be placed anywhere—no power outlets needed. This flexibility is one reason people love the Pro 2, but it also means battery life and signal strength matter when adding more units.

What Makes the Pro 2 Different from Other Arlo Models?

The Arlo Pro 2 sits in the middle of Arlo’s product line. It’s not the cheapest (that’s the original Arlo), and it’s not the newest (that’s the Arlo Pro 3, 4, or Ultra). But it strikes a sweet spot: 1080p video, 6-month battery life, night vision, motion detection, two-way audio, and compatibility with a wide range of accessories.

Unlike the newer Arlo models, the Pro 2 uses the older base station (VMB4000 or VMB4500). This matters because newer cameras like the Arlo Pro 3 or Arlo Ultra require a newer SmartHub (VMB5000). But here’s the key: you can still add more Arlo Pro 2 cameras to your existing base station, even if you already have one or two.

Also, the Pro 2 supports both cloud and local storage. You can use an SD card in the base station for local backup, or subscribe to Arlo’s cloud plans for 7- or 30-day video history. This gives you flexibility when scaling up—more cameras mean more video, so storage becomes more important.

Adding More Arlo Pro 2 Cameras: Step-by-Step

So, can you add more Arlo Pro 2 cameras? Yes. But it’s not just about plugging in a new box. There’s a process—and doing it right ensures everything works smoothly.

Step 1: Check Your Base Station Capacity

The first thing to know: your base station has a limit. The standard Arlo Pro 2 base station supports up to 5 cameras. If you have the Pro 2 4-Pack or 6-Pack, you might already have a base station that supports more. But most starter kits come with a 5-camera limit.

Wait—what if you want more than 5? Good news: Arlo sells a high-capacity base station (VMB4540) that supports up to 15 cameras. If you’re planning a large setup, consider upgrading your base station. It costs around $80–$100, but it’s a one-time investment that lets you grow your system without limits.

Tip: You can keep your old base station as a backup or use it for a secondary property. I kept mine in the basement for testing new cameras before deploying them outside.

Step 2: Buy Compatible Arlo Pro 2 Cameras

When adding more cameras, make sure you’re buying the Arlo Pro 2 (VMC4030P). Don’t confuse it with the original Arlo (VMC3030) or the newer Pro 3 (VMC4040P). The Pro 2 has a slightly different shape, battery, and sync button.

You can buy single cameras, 2-packs, or 3-packs. I recommend buying a 2- or 3-pack—you save about 10–15% per camera. Also, check for “certified refurbished” units from Arlo’s website. I bought two refurbished Pro 2s last year and they work perfectly—just like new, with a warranty.

Step 3: Sync the New Camera with the Base Station

Now for the fun part: setup. Here’s how to add a new camera:

• Open the Arlo app on your phone or tablet.
• Tap the “+” icon in the top-right corner.
• Select “Add Device” > “Cameras” > “Arlo Pro 2.”
• Follow the on-screen prompts. The app will ask you to press and hold the sync button on the camera (it’s on the back, under the battery cover).
• Wait for the app to detect the camera. It usually takes 10–30 seconds.
• Once synced, name your camera (e.g., “Backyard,” “Garage”).
• Mount it and adjust the view.

Pro tip: Sync your camera before mounting it. It’s easier to press the sync button when the camera is in your hand. Also, do this near the base station—ideally within 10 feet—to ensure a strong signal during setup.

Step 4: Optimize Placement and Signal

After syncing, place your camera where you want it. But don’t just stick it anywhere. Think about:

• Distance from the base station: Arlo Pro 2 cameras work best within 300 feet of the base station (line of sight). Thick walls, metal siding, or large trees can reduce range. I once tried placing a camera 250 feet away behind a brick wall—it kept disconnecting. I moved it to a tree 150 feet away, and it’s been rock solid.
• Mounting height: 7–10 feet is ideal. Too low, and pets or kids might block it. Too high, and you lose facial detail.
• Angle and coverage: Aim for overlapping coverage with other cameras. This reduces blind spots. I have three cameras covering my backyard: one on the shed (wide view), one on the back porch (focused on the door), and one on the fence (watching the side gate).

Use the Arlo app’s “Camera Health” tool to check signal strength. If it’s weak, try repositioning or adding a Wi-Fi range extender (more on that later).

Compatibility with Other Arlo Cameras and Accessories

You might be wondering: can I mix different Arlo models? Like, can I add an Arlo Pro 3 or an Arlo Floodlight to my Pro 2 system?

Mixing Arlo Models: What Works and What Doesn’t

Here’s the good news: you can add certain newer Arlo cameras to your Pro 2 base station, but with some limitations.

• Arlo Pro 3 and Pro 4: These can connect to a Pro 2 base station (VMB4000 or VMB4500), but only if the base station is running the latest firmware. You’ll lose some Pro 3 features like color night vision and 2K HDR, but basic 1080p, motion detection, and two-way audio still work.
• Arlo Ultra and Ultra 2: These require a newer SmartHub (VMB5000). They won’t work with the Pro 2 base station.
• Arlo Go (LTE camera): This works independently and doesn’t need a base station. You can add it to your Arlo account, but it won’t connect to your Pro 2 hub.

So, if you want to upgrade a few cameras to Pro 3s for better video, go for it. But keep your Pro 2 base station. Just know that not all features will be available.

Adding Arlo Accessories

The Pro 2 system also supports accessories that enhance your setup:

• Arlo Solar Panels: These keep your cameras charged without manual battery changes. I use one on my backyard camera—it’s been running for 14 months without a charge. Just make sure the panel gets 4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
• Arlo Smart Hub (VMB5000): If you plan to add newer cameras later, consider upgrading. The VMB5000 supports up to 20 devices and has faster processing. It’s backward compatible with Pro 2 cameras.
• Arlo Chime: This plugs into any outlet and plays a doorbell sound when your camera detects motion. Great for indoor alerts.
• Arlo Smart Hub with Siren: Adds a 100dB siren that triggers during motion events. I use it as a deterrent—my neighbors say it’s “scary loud.”

These accessories integrate seamlessly with your Pro 2 cameras. Just add them through the Arlo app, and they’ll work with your existing system.

Managing Storage and Subscriptions

Adding more cameras means more video. And more video means you need to think about storage. Here’s how to handle it.

Local Storage with SD Cards

The Arlo Pro 2 base station has a microSD card slot. You can insert a card (up to 2TB) for local video backup. This is free—no subscription needed.

How it works:

• When motion is detected, the camera records and saves the clip to the SD card.
• You can view these clips in the Arlo app under “Library” > “Local.”
• The oldest clips are automatically overwritten when the card is full.

I use a 256GB card. It holds about 30 days of 10-second clips from 5 cameras. That’s enough for me, but if you have 10 cameras or longer clips, go for 512GB or 1TB.

Cloud Storage: Arlo Secure Plans

Local storage is great, but it has limits. If your base station is stolen or damaged, you lose all your local clips. That’s why many users opt for cloud storage.

Arlo offers several Arlo Secure plans:

• Arlo Secure (7-day cloud storage): $2.99/month per camera. Stores 7 days of video history.
• Arlo Secure Plus (30-day cloud storage): $9.99/month for up to 5 cameras. 30 days of history, plus AI features like person, vehicle, and animal detection.
• Arlo Secure Elite: $19.99/month for up to 10 cameras. Includes 30-day cloud, AI detection, and emergency response.

Here’s a real-world example: I have 6 cameras. I use the Arlo Secure Plus plan. It costs $9.99/month for all of them. I get 30 days of video, and the AI alerts tell me if it’s a person, package, or squirrel. It’s worth it for peace of mind.

Hybrid Storage: The Best of Both Worlds

Many users (including me) use a hybrid approach: local SD cards for daily backup and cloud storage for long-term security. If the base station is stolen, the cloud clips are safe. If the internet goes down, local storage keeps recording.

Tip: Set your cameras to record in “Event Only” mode (not 24/7). This saves storage space and battery life. I’ve had zero issues with this—the motion detection is reliable.

Performance and Limitations When Scaling Up

Adding more cameras is exciting, but it’s not without trade-offs. Let’s talk about what changes when you scale.

Signal Strength and Wi-Fi Interference

Each camera connects to the base station wirelessly. As you add more, the wireless load increases. In rare cases, this can cause:

• Delayed alerts
• Video lag
• Camera disconnections

To prevent this:

• Keep the base station in a central location, away from thick walls or metal objects.
• Use a Wi-Fi range extender if your home is large. I use a TP-Link RE220 near the back of my house—it boosts the base station’s signal to the far corners.
• Limit the number of cameras in a single area. Don’t put 4 cameras within 20 feet of each other—it can cause interference.

Battery Life and Maintenance

Each camera uses a rechargeable battery. More cameras = more charging. The Pro 2 battery lasts 3–6 months, depending on usage.

My tip: charge batteries in batches. I mark mine with colored tape (red = needs charge, green = full). Every 4 months, I charge all red batteries. It takes 2 hours and saves me from mid-week surprises.

App Performance and User Experience

The Arlo app can handle up to 15 cameras (with the high-capacity base station). But with 8+ cameras, the app can feel slower. Clips load a bit more slowly, and switching between cameras takes a second or two.

To improve performance:

• Close other apps on your phone.
• Update the Arlo app regularly.
• Use the “Favorites” feature to pin your most-used cameras to the home screen.

Data Usage

Cloud storage uses data. If you have 5 cameras on a 7-day plan, you’re using about 5–10 GB per month. With 10 cameras, it’s 10–20 GB. Most home internet plans can handle this, but if you’re on a limited data plan, stick to local storage or shorter retention periods.

Cost Breakdown: Expanding Your Arlo Pro 2 System

Let’s talk money. How much will it cost to add more cameras? Here’s a real-world example based on my setup.

Item	Cost	Notes
Arlo Pro 2 Camera (single)	$129.99	Retail price; often on sale for $99–$110
Arlo Pro 2 2-Pack	$229.99	Saves $30 vs. buying two singles
High-Capacity Base Station (VMB4540)	$99.99	Supports up to 15 cameras; optional
256GB MicroSD Card	$29.99	For local storage; 512GB = $59.99
Arlo Solar Panel	$39.99	Keeps one camera charged
Arlo Secure Plus (5 cameras)	$9.99/month	30-day cloud storage + AI alerts
Arlo Chime	$29.99	Indoor doorbell sound

Example: Adding 3 Cameras to a 2-Camera System
– 3 Arlo Pro 2 cameras (2-pack + single): $229.99 + $129.99 = $359.98
– 256GB SD card: $29.99
– Arlo Solar Panel (for one camera): $39.99
– Arlo Secure Plus (for 5 cameras): $9.99/month
Total (one-time): $429.96
Monthly: $9.99

Is it worth it? For me, yes. I sleep better knowing my whole property is covered. And the cost is less than a monthly security service.

Final Thoughts: Should You Expand Your Arlo Pro 2 System?

So, can you add more cameras to your Arlo Pro 2 system? Absolutely. The system is built to scale, and with the right planning, you can go from 1 to 15 cameras without breaking a sweat.

But remember: it’s not just about adding hardware. Think about your needs. Do you need coverage in the backyard? A camera for the garage? A solar panel to cut down on charging? Each addition should solve a real security problem.

From my experience, the key to success is planning. Map out your home, identify blind spots, and test signal strength before buying more cameras. Use local storage to save money, but consider cloud for peace of mind. And don’t forget the little things—like naming your cameras clearly and setting up smart alerts.

The Arlo Pro 2 may not be the newest model, but it’s still a solid, reliable choice. With the ability to expand, it can grow with your needs—whether you’re securing a small apartment or a multi-acre property.

At the end of the day, home security is about feeling safe. And for me, adding those extra cameras didn’t just add coverage—it added confidence. I know my home is protected, and that’s worth every penny.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you add more cameras to Arlo Pro 2 after initial setup?

Yes, you can add more cameras to your Arlo Pro 2 system at any time. The base station supports up to 5 cameras simultaneously, and you can expand your setup by syncing additional cameras via the Arlo app.

How many Arlo Pro 2 cameras can you connect to one base station?

The Arlo Pro 2 base station allows you to connect up to 5 cameras at once. If you need more coverage, you can purchase additional base stations or upgrade to a newer Arlo system with higher capacity.

Is it possible to mix Arlo Pro 2 with other Arlo camera models?

Yes, you can add more cameras to Arlo Pro 2 systems alongside other compatible Arlo models like Pro 3 or Ultra. However, ensure all cameras are supported by your base station or Arlo SmartHub for seamless integration.

Do extra Arlo Pro 2 cameras require a separate subscription?

No, additional Arlo Pro 2 cameras use the same subscription plan as your original camera, provided they’re on the same account. Arlo’s service plans cover all cameras under one account, but storage limits depend on your plan type.

What’s the process to add more cameras to Arlo Pro 2?

To add more cameras to Arlo Pro 2, open the Arlo app, select “Add Device,” and follow the syncing instructions. Press the sync button on the base station and then on the new camera to complete the pairing.

Can you use Arlo Pro 2 cameras without the base station?

No, Arlo Pro 2 cameras require a base station (or Arlo SmartHub) to connect and function. The base station acts as a bridge between the cameras and your Wi-Fi network, enabling remote access and local storage options.