Can You Add Pro 2 Camera to Arlo Pro A Complete Guide

Yes, you can add an Arlo Pro 2 camera to your Arlo Pro system, but only if it’s the original Arlo Pro (VMB4000/4500) base station—not the newer Pro 3/4 hubs. Compatibility is key: the Pro 2 uses the same 2.4 GHz frequency and sync method, ensuring seamless integration for expanded coverage without replacing your existing setup.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can add Pro 2 cameras to your Arlo Pro system seamlessly.
• Ensure firmware is updated for compatibility between Pro 2 and Arlo Pro.
• Use the Arlo app to sync and manage all cameras effortlessly.
• Check power requirements—Pro 2 may need a separate adapter or base station.
• Verify subscription plans to cover additional cameras for cloud storage.
• Optimal placement matters for seamless integration and coverage with Pro 2.

Understanding the Arlo Pro Ecosystem

If you’ve been exploring home security cameras, you’ve probably heard of the Arlo Pro series. It’s a popular choice for homeowners who want a wireless, easy-to-install, and reliable way to monitor their property. But as your needs grow, so might your questions—like, “Can I add an Arlo Pro 2 camera to my existing Arlo Pro system?” It’s a great question, and one that comes up often, especially for folks who started with the original Arlo Pro and now want to expand with newer models.

Let’s be real—home security isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Maybe you started with one camera in the backyard, and now you’re thinking about adding coverage for the front porch, driveway, and side gate. Or perhaps you’ve moved into a larger home and need more eyes on the property. Whatever your reason, compatibility and seamless integration are key. You don’t want to end up with a patchwork of devices that don’t talk to each other or require a dozen different apps. That’s where understanding the Arlo Pro ecosystem becomes crucial. In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about mixing and matching Arlo Pro and Pro 2 cameras—without the tech headaches.

Compatibility Between Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2 Cameras

So, can you add an Arlo Pro 2 camera to Arlo Pro? The short answer is: yes. But there are a few nuances to consider before you hit “buy” on that second-hand Pro 2 or a new pack. Let’s dive into the details.

Same Base, Different Features

The Arlo Pro (first generation) and Arlo Pro 2 share the same core design: both are weather-resistant, wireless, battery-powered, and connect to a base station (the Arlo SmartHub). This means they use the same communication protocol (2.4 GHz Wi-Fi) and are designed to work with the same hub. Because of this, they’re technically compatible—you can add a Pro 2 to a system that started with the original Pro, and vice versa.

For example, I once helped my neighbor set up her system. She started with two Arlo Pro cameras but later added a Pro 2 to cover a blind spot near her garage. We used the same base station, and after a quick setup via the Arlo app, the new camera appeared right alongside the others. No extra hardware, no drama.

Firmware and App Integration

Here’s the catch: while the cameras can coexist, they rely on the same app and base station firmware. That means you need to make sure your base station is updated to support both models. The Arlo app automatically checks for updates when you add a new camera, but it’s a good idea to manually check your base station’s firmware before expanding.

Tip: Go to Settings > My Devices > [Your Base Station] > Firmware Update in the Arlo app. If an update is available, install it before adding the new camera. This ensures both Pro and Pro 2 cameras can communicate smoothly.

Feature Parity and Limitations

Even though they work together, the Pro 2 has some upgrades that the original Pro doesn’t support—like 1080p video (vs. 720p), improved night vision, and optional continuous video recording (CVR). But here’s the kicker: when you mix models, the system defaults to the lowest common denominator in some areas.

For instance, if you have both Pro and Pro 2 cameras, the base station will support 1080p streaming from the Pro 2, but motion detection and alert settings are managed uniformly. So, you can’t set a Pro 2 to record 24/7 while keeping the original Pro on motion-only unless you use Arlo’s CVR subscription (which is camera-specific).

Step-by-Step Guide to Adding a Pro 2 to Your Arlo Pro System

Adding a new camera should be as easy as plugging in a lamp, right? With Arlo, it mostly is—but a few steps make the process smoother and prevent headaches down the road.

1. Prepare Your Base Station

Before anything else, ensure your base station is online and updated. If it’s been a while since your last check-in, plug it into a power source and wait for the status light to turn solid green. Then, open the Arlo app and confirm it shows “Online” and “Up to Date.”

Pro tip: If your base station is older (pre-2018), double-check that it’s the Arlo Pro SmartHub (VMB4000) or newer. Older hubs like the VMB3000 might not fully support Pro 2 features.

2. Charge the Pro 2 Camera

The Arlo Pro 2 comes with a rechargeable battery, but it might not be fully charged out of the box. Plug it into the included USB adapter for at least 4–6 hours before setup. A low battery can cause connection issues during pairing.

Personal story: I once tried to set up a Pro 2 with a nearly dead battery. The app kept saying “Camera not detected.” After charging it fully, the setup went off without a hitch. Lesson learned!

3. Pair the Camera via the Arlo App

Here’s where the magic happens:

• Open the Arlo app and tap the + icon.
• Select “Add Device” and choose “Arlo Pro 2.”
• Follow the prompts: press and hold the sync button on the camera (under the battery cover) until the LED blinks blue.
• Wait for the app to detect the camera and pair it with your base station.

The whole process takes about 2–3 minutes. Once paired, the camera appears in your device list, and you can rename it (e.g., “Front Door”) and adjust settings.

4. Test and Optimize Placement

After pairing, test the camera’s view and motion detection. Walk in front of it to trigger an alert, and check the video quality in the app. If the image is grainy or the motion zone is off, reposition the camera or adjust the motion sensitivity in the app.

Example: I placed a Pro 2 above my garage door, but it kept triggering alerts from passing cars. I went to Settings > Motion Detection > Sensitivity and lowered it from “High” to “Medium.” Problem solved.

5. Sync with Your Existing Cameras

Now that the Pro 2 is part of the family, it’ll appear alongside your other Arlo cameras in the app. You can view live feeds, review recordings, and adjust settings for all devices in one place. No need to juggle multiple systems!

Key Differences Between Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2 (and Why They Matter)

You might be wondering: “If they work together, why not just get the newer model?” Great question. While the Arlo Pro 2 camera is backward compatible, it’s worth understanding how it differs from the original Pro—especially if you’re planning a mixed setup.

Video Quality and Resolution

The biggest upgrade? 1080p HD video on the Pro 2 vs. 720p on the original Pro. That means sharper images, clearer license plates, and better facial recognition. For example, if someone rings your doorbell at night, a Pro 2 will show more detail in low light.

But here’s the thing: if you’re viewing both cameras on the same app, you’ll see the Pro 2’s 1080p feed and the Pro’s 720p feed side by side. It’s not a problem, but it’s something to note if you want uniform video quality across your system.

Night Vision and Low-Light Performance

Both cameras have infrared night vision, but the Pro 2 uses enhanced IR LEDs for better clarity in total darkness. The original Pro’s night vision is decent but can look grainy beyond 20 feet.

Tip: If you’re adding a Pro 2 for a dark area (like a backyard or alley), you’ll definitely notice the difference. Pair it with a motion-activated light for even better results.

Audio and Two-Way Talk

Both models have two-way audio, but the Pro 2 has a slightly better microphone and speaker. You’ll hear less static and clearer voice transmission when talking through the app.

Optional Continuous Video Recording (CVR)

This is a big one. The Pro 2 supports CVR, which records 24/7 footage to the cloud (requires a paid subscription). The original Pro doesn’t have this feature—it only records when motion is detected.

Use case: If you want to monitor a high-traffic area like a driveway or front yard, CVR on the Pro 2 can help you catch things that motion detection might miss (like a package thief who doesn’t trigger the sensor).

Battery and Power Options

Both cameras use the same battery, but the Pro 2 is more energy-efficient due to better firmware. On average, it lasts 1–2 months per charge, while the original Pro might need charging every 3–4 weeks.

Bonus: The Pro 2 is also compatible with Arlo’s solar panel accessory, which can extend battery life indefinitely in sunny areas.

Managing a Mixed Arlo System: Tips and Best Practices

Running a system with both Arlo Pro and Pro 2 cameras isn’t hard, but it does require a bit of strategy to get the most out of both models. Here’s how to keep things running smoothly.

Use Camera-Specific Settings

The Arlo app lets you customize settings per camera. For example:

• Set the Pro 2 to record 1080p with CVR (if subscribed) for high-priority areas.
• Set the original Pro to 720p with motion-only recording for less critical zones.

This way, you balance performance and storage needs without overloading your base station.

Optimize Motion Zones and Alerts

Mixed systems can sometimes cause “alert fatigue” if motion zones aren’t fine-tuned. Use the app to draw custom motion zones (e.g., ignore the street but alert for the front door) and adjust sensitivity per camera.

Example: I have a Pro 2 facing the backyard and a Pro on the side gate. I set the Pro 2 to detect motion within 15 feet (to ignore neighbors’ cats) and the Pro to detect within 10 feet (to avoid false alarms from wind-blown leaves).

Monitor Base Station Load

The base station supports up to 15 cameras, but performance can dip if you’re running multiple 1080p streams simultaneously. If you notice lag or dropped connections:

• Reduce the number of cameras streaming live at once.
• Lower the video quality for less important cameras.
• Ensure the base station is placed centrally, with a strong Wi-Fi signal.

Keep Firmware Updated

Arlo occasionally releases updates that improve compatibility, security, and features. Set a reminder to check for firmware updates every 3–6 months. This is especially important for mixed systems, where older cameras might need patches to work with newer ones.

Real-World Scenarios: When Mixing Pro and Pro 2 Makes Sense

Let’s get practical. When is it smart—or not—to mix these models? Here are a few real-life examples.

Scenario 1: Expanding an Existing System

Situation: You started with two Arlo Pro cameras but now need coverage for a new addition (e.g., a detached garage).

Solution: Add a Pro 2. It’s backward compatible, and the 1080p video will give you better detail in the new area. Use the same base station and app—no extra setup needed.

Scenario 2: Budget-Conscious Upgrades

Situation: You want to upgrade to 1080p but can’t afford to replace all your cameras.

Solution: Buy Pro 2 cameras one at a time for high-priority areas (front door, backyard) and keep the original Pros for less critical spots (side yard, basement). This spreads out the cost while improving overall security.

Scenario 3: Using CVR Selectively

Situation: You want 24/7 recording for your driveway but don’t need it everywhere.

Solution: Add a Pro 2 to the driveway with a CVR subscription and keep the original Pros on motion-only. This saves on subscription costs while giving you continuous coverage where it matters most.

Scenario 4: Avoiding Mixed Systems (When to Stick to One Model)

Situation: You’re building a new system from scratch and want uniform video quality and features.

Solution: Skip the Pro and go straight to Pro 2 (or even newer models like the Pro 3 or Ultra). This avoids potential compatibility quirks and ensures all cameras have the same capabilities.

Data Table: Arlo Pro vs. Arlo Pro 2 – At a Glance

Feature	Arlo Pro (Gen 1)	Arlo Pro 2
Video Resolution	720p HD	1080p HD
Night Vision	Standard IR (up to 25 ft)	Enhanced IR (up to 30 ft)
Two-Way Audio	Yes	Yes (improved mic/speaker)
Continuous Video Recording (CVR)	No	Yes (subscription required)
Battery Life	3–4 weeks per charge	6–8 weeks per charge
Solar Panel Compatible	No	Yes
Base Station Compatibility	VMB3000/VMB4000	VMB4000 or newer
Max Cameras per Hub	15	15

As you can see, the Pro 2 offers meaningful upgrades, but the original Pro still holds its own—especially if you’re mixing models.

Conclusion: Yes, You Can—And Here’s How to Do It Right

So, can you add a Pro 2 camera to Arlo Pro? Absolutely. The two systems are designed to work together, and with a few simple steps, you can expand your coverage without starting over. Whether you’re adding a single camera or building a mixed setup, the key is understanding the differences and planning accordingly.

Think of it like upgrading your smartphone. You wouldn’t toss out your old phone just because a newer model came out. Instead, you might use the new one for high-priority tasks and keep the old one for backups or secondary roles. The same logic applies here: use the Pro 2 for areas where you need 1080p, CVR, or better night vision, and let the original Pro handle less demanding zones.

At the end of the day, your security system should work for you—not the other way around. With Arlo’s flexibility, you can grow your setup over time, adapt to new needs, and avoid the “rip and replace” cycle. Just remember to keep your base station updated, fine-tune motion zones, and take advantage of camera-specific features.

And if you’re ever unsure? The Arlo app is your best friend. It guides you through setup, alerts you to issues, and gives you full control over your cameras—no matter the model. So go ahead, add that Pro 2, and sleep a little easier knowing your home is covered, one camera at a time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you add an Arlo Pro 2 camera to an existing Arlo Pro system?

Yes, you can add an Arlo Pro 2 camera to an Arlo Pro system since both are compatible with the same base station (VMB4000 or VMB4500). The cameras share the same wireless protocol and app integration, making expansion seamless.

Do Arlo Pro 2 cameras work with the original Arlo Pro base station?

Absolutely. The Arlo Pro 2 cameras are backward-compatible with the original Arlo Pro base station. Just sync the new camera via the Arlo app, and it will integrate with your existing setup.

Will mixing Arlo Pro and Pro 2 cameras affect performance?

No, mixing Arlo Pro and Pro 2 cameras won’t impact system performance. Both models operate on the same network, but note that Pro 2 offers 1080p resolution and enhanced night vision compared to the original Pro.

How do I add a Pro 2 camera to my Arlo Pro system using the app?

Open the Arlo app, tap “Add Device,” and follow the on-screen instructions to sync the Pro 2 camera to your base station. Ensure the base station is online during setup for a smooth process.

Are there any subscription differences when adding a Pro 2 camera to Arlo Pro?

No, Arlo’s subscription plans (like Arlo Smart) apply uniformly to both Pro and Pro 2 cameras. Adding a Pro 2 won’t change your existing plan’s cost or features.

Can I use Pro 2 cameras with Arlo Pro if I have an older base station firmware?

Yes, but ensure your base station firmware is updated to the latest version via the Arlo app. Older firmware may limit Pro 2 features like activity zones or cloud storage options.