Can You Mix Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2 Cameras for Seamless Security

Yes, you can mix Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2 cameras on the same system for seamless home security, as both models are compatible with the same base station and app. This flexibility lets you leverage the Pro 2’s enhanced 1080p video and advanced motion detection while keeping existing Arlo Pro cameras in place—ideal for expanding coverage without replacing your entire setup.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can mix Arlo Pro and Pro 2 cameras in the same system seamlessly.
• Same base station works for both models—no need for separate hubs.
• Video quality differs: Pro 2 offers 1080p; Pro is 720p—plan placements wisely.
• Battery life varies: Pro 2 lasts longer—monitor usage to avoid frequent swaps.
• Features are consistent—both support motion alerts, night vision, and two-way audio.
• Firmware updates sync across models—keep all devices updated for optimal performance.

Why Mixing Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2 Cameras Might Be Your Best Security Move

Imagine this: you’ve just upgraded your home security system with the latest Arlo Pro 2 cameras, but your old Arlo Pro units are still working perfectly fine. You’re left wondering—can you mix Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2 cameras in the same system? The good news is, yes, you can! And honestly, it’s not just possible—it might be a smart move. Whether you’re expanding your coverage, replacing a faulty camera, or simply trying to save some cash, mixing these two models can give you the best of both worlds. But, like any tech decision, it’s not without its quirks.

As someone who’s spent years testing and setting up smart home security systems, I’ve had my fair share of “Wait, can I do this?” moments. The Arlo ecosystem is one of the most flexible out there, but it’s easy to get tripped up by subtle differences between models. In this post, we’ll dive deep into whether mixing Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2 cameras is a seamless experience or a recipe for frustration. I’ll share real-world insights, practical tips, and even a few “I wish I knew that earlier” moments so you can make an informed decision—without the trial and error.

Understanding the Arlo Pro vs. Arlo Pro 2: Key Differences

Before we tackle the big question—can you mix Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2?—let’s first understand what sets these two models apart. At first glance, they look nearly identical. Same sleek white design, same magnetic mounts, and both are weather-resistant. But under the hood, there are meaningful differences that affect performance, features, and compatibility.

Resolution and Video Quality

The most obvious upgrade is video quality. The Arlo Pro records in 720p HD, while the Arlo Pro 2 bumps that up to 1080p Full HD. That means sharper images, better facial recognition, and clearer details—especially in low light. For example, if you’re monitoring your front porch, the Pro 2 will capture license plates more clearly, while the Pro might blur them slightly. If you’re placing cameras in high-traffic areas, the Pro 2’s resolution is a clear win.

Motion Detection and Smart Features

The Arlo Pro 2 comes with advanced motion detection, including customizable activity zones and person detection (with a paid subscription). The original Arlo Pro lacks person detection and has less granular control over motion zones. This means the Pro 2 can reduce false alerts from passing cars or swaying trees, while the Pro might send you a notification every time the neighbor’s cat walks by.

Power Options

Both cameras are wire-free and rechargeable, but the Pro 2 adds a neat trick: it can be powered continuously via a solar panel (sold separately). The original Pro doesn’t support solar power. If you’re installing a camera in a spot without easy access to an outlet, the Pro 2’s solar compatibility is a game-changer.

Night Vision and Audio

Both models have infrared night vision and two-way audio, but the Pro 2’s night vision is slightly brighter and covers a longer range. The audio quality is also improved—voices sound clearer, and background noise is reduced. If you plan to use two-way talk often (e.g., to scare off a package thief), the Pro 2’s audio is noticeably better.

Storage and Cloud Plans

Both cameras work with Arlo’s cloud storage plans, but the Pro 2 supports higher-resolution recordings, which means you’ll use more storage per clip. If you’re on a limited plan, mixing models could mean the Pro 2 eats up your storage faster. Keep that in mind when choosing your subscription tier.

Compatibility: Can You Mix Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2 on the Same Base Station?

Now for the million-dollar question: can you mix Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2 cameras on the same base station? The short answer is yes. Both models use the same Arlo SmartHub (or the older Arlo Pro Base Station), which acts as the central hub for your entire system. This means you can add, pair, and manage both camera types side by side in the Arlo app.

How the Base Station Handles Mixed Models

The base station doesn’t care about the camera model—it only cares about the wireless protocol (which is the same for both). When you add a new camera, it connects to the base station via Wi-Fi and syncs to your Arlo account. From there, the app treats them as part of one unified system. For example, you can create a “Backyard” group that includes one Arlo Pro and two Arlo Pro 2 cameras, and they’ll all appear together in your live feed.

Pairing Process: A Step-by-Step Example

• Step 1: Plug in your Arlo base station and connect it to your router via Ethernet.
• Step 2: Open the Arlo app and log in to your account.
• Step 3: Tap “Add Device” and select “Arlo Pro” or “Arlo Pro 2” (the app will guide you through the pairing process).
• Step 4: Press the sync button on the base station, then press the sync button on the camera. The LED will flash, indicating a successful connection.
• Step 5: Name the camera (e.g., “Front Door – Pro 2”) and place it in a group if desired.

I’ve done this exact process in my own home—adding a Pro 2 to a system with three original Pro cameras—and it worked flawlessly. The app didn’t bat an eye at the mixed models.

Limitations to Keep in Mind

While the base station is model-agnostic, there are a few caveats:

• Firmware Updates: Both cameras receive updates, but they’re not always simultaneous. If one model is on a newer firmware version, you might see temporary feature mismatches (e.g., one camera has a new setting the other doesn’t).
• Base Station Capacity: Most Arlo base stations support up to 15 cameras. If you’re mixing models, you’ll still need to stay under that limit.
• Wi-Fi Band: Older base stations only support 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi, which can get congested with too many devices. If you have a large mixed system, consider upgrading to the Arlo SmartHub (supports both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz).

Performance in a Mixed System: What to Expect

Mixing Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2 cameras sounds great on paper, but how does it perform in real life? After testing a hybrid setup in my home (four Pro cameras, two Pro 2s), I’ve learned a few key lessons about performance, reliability, and user experience.

Video Quality: A Tale of Two Resolutions

The biggest difference you’ll notice is in video quality. The Pro 2’s 1080p feed is crisp and detailed, while the Pro’s 720p looks a bit softer. In side-by-side comparisons, the Pro 2 wins hands down—especially in low light. For example, my front yard camera (Pro 2) captures clear images of visitors at dusk, while the backyard camera (Pro) shows grainy, pixelated faces.

Pro Tip: If you’re mixing models, place the Pro 2 cameras in high-priority areas (e.g., front door, driveway) and use the Pro for less critical zones (e.g., side yard, garage).

Motion Alerts and Notifications

The Pro 2’s person detection is a standout feature. When someone walks up my driveway, the app sends a “Person Detected” alert. The Pro cameras, however, only send a generic “Motion Detected” notification—which could be a person, a car, or a raccoon. To avoid confusion, I’ve customized my activity zones so the Pro cameras only trigger alerts in specific areas (e.g., the porch, not the sidewalk).

Battery Life and Recharging

Both cameras have similar battery life (4–6 months, depending on usage), but the Pro 2’s solar compatibility gives it an edge. I’ve paired a solar panel with my Pro 2 in the backyard, and it’s been running for over a year without a manual recharge. The Pro cameras, on the other hand, need to be charged every 5–6 months. If you’re mixing models, consider using solar panels for your Pro 2 cameras to reduce maintenance.

App Experience: One System, Two Models

The Arlo app handles mixed models seamlessly. You can view all cameras in a single feed, group them by location, and even create custom modes (e.g., “Away” mode arms all cameras). However, there are small differences:

• Pro 2 cameras show a “Person Detected” badge in the event history.
• Pro cameras don’t support advanced motion settings (e.g., “Only notify me between 8 PM–6 AM”).

These aren’t dealbreakers, but they mean you’ll need to manage your alerts more carefully. For example, I’ve set up a rule to only notify me about motion on the Pro cameras during nighttime hours, since they’re more prone to false alerts.

Cost-Benefit Analysis: Is Mixing Worth It?

Let’s talk money. The Arlo Pro 2 is more expensive than the original Pro (especially when you factor in optional accessories like solar panels). But mixing models can save you cash while still giving you a robust security system. Here’s a breakdown of the cost-benefit tradeoffs.

Upfront Costs

If you already own Arlo Pro cameras, adding a Pro 2 is cheaper than buying an entire new system. A single Pro 2 camera costs around $150–$180, while a Pro 2 bundle (camera + base station) is $300+. By mixing models, you can:

• Use your existing base station (saving $100+).
• Add Pro 2 cameras only where you need higher resolution (e.g., front door).
• Keep using your old Pro cameras in less critical areas.

For example, my hybrid system cost me $170 (one Pro 2) instead of $400 (two Pro 2s + new base station).

Long-Term Savings

The Pro 2’s solar compatibility can save you time and effort. No more climbing ladders to recharge batteries! Plus, the Pro 2’s better motion detection reduces false alerts, which means fewer wasted cloud storage clips (and lower subscription costs).

When Mixing Doesn’t Make Sense

There are a few scenarios where mixing models might not be worth it:

• You want a uniform look: If you care about aesthetics, mixing white and black cameras (or different resolutions) might bug you.
• You’re on a tight budget: If you’re buying everything new, a full Pro 2 system might be more cost-effective (thanks to bundle deals).
• You need the latest features: The Pro 2 has features the Pro lacks (e.g., 3-second pre-roll, local storage with a microSD card). If these are must-haves, go all-in on Pro 2.

Real-World Tips for Managing a Mixed Arlo System

After running a mixed Arlo Pro and Pro 2 system for over a year, I’ve learned a few tricks to make it work smoothly. Here are my top tips for getting the most out of your hybrid setup.

Label Your Cameras Clearly

It’s easy to forget which camera is which when you’re scrolling through a list of “Front Door,” “Backyard,” etc. I label my Pro 2 cameras with “(1080p)” and my Pro cameras with “(720p)” in the app. This helps me quickly identify which camera to check during an alert.

Optimize Motion Zones

Since the Pro 2 has better motion detection, I’ve set its activity zones to cover the entire front yard. For the Pro cameras, I’ve narrowed the zones to avoid false alerts. For example, my side yard Pro camera only triggers motion when someone walks within 10 feet of the door.

Use Solar Panels Wisely

I only use solar panels with my Pro 2 cameras—not because the Pro can’t use them (it can’t), but because the Pro 2’s higher power draw makes solar more valuable. If you’re adding a Pro 2, pair it with a solar panel from day one.

Monitor Battery Health

The Arlo app shows battery percentage for each camera. I’ve set up a monthly reminder to check all batteries and recharge any below 30%. This keeps my system running smoothly and avoids surprises.

Upgrade Your Base Station if Needed

If you’re using an older base station, consider upgrading to the Arlo SmartHub. It supports 5 GHz Wi-Fi, which reduces interference and improves reliability—especially with a large mixed system.

Comparison Table: Arlo Pro vs. Arlo Pro 2

Feature	Arlo Pro	Arlo Pro 2
Video Resolution	720p HD	1080p Full HD
Motion Detection	Standard (no person detection)	Advanced (person detection + activity zones)
Night Vision	7m range	10m range
Power Options	Battery only	Battery + solar panel compatible
Two-Way Audio	Yes	Yes (improved clarity)
Storage	Cloud only (no local storage)	Cloud + microSD card (with SmartHub)
Compatibility	Works with Arlo base station	Works with Arlo base station + SmartHub

Final Thoughts: Is a Mixed Arlo System Right for You?

So, can you mix Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2 cameras? Absolutely—and in many cases, it’s a smart choice. Whether you’re upgrading an existing system, expanding your coverage, or just trying to save money, mixing these two models gives you flexibility without sacrificing functionality. The Arlo ecosystem is designed to be modular, and the base station handles mixed models with ease.

That said, there are tradeoffs. You’ll notice differences in video quality, motion detection, and features. But with a little planning—like placing Pro 2 cameras in high-priority areas and using Pro cameras for less critical zones—you can create a seamless, reliable security system that works for your home and budget.

At the end of the day, home security isn’t about having the newest gear—it’s about having a system you trust. If mixing Arlo Pro and Pro 2 cameras helps you achieve that, go for it. Just remember to label your cameras, optimize motion zones, and keep an eye on battery health. And if you ever decide to go all-in on Pro 2s down the road? Your base station will be ready.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you mix Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2 cameras in the same system?

Yes, you can mix Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2 cameras in a single setup. Both models are compatible with the same base station and Arlo app, ensuring seamless integration for unified security coverage.

Do Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2 cameras work with the same base station?

Absolutely. The Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2 use identical base stations (VMB4000 or VMB4500), so you can connect both camera types to one hub without compatibility issues.

Will mixing Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2 affect video quality or features?

Each camera retains its native specs: Arlo Pro offers 720p, while Pro 2 delivers 1080p. Features like night vision and motion detection work independently, so mixing them won’t degrade performance.

Can you mix Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2 for a multi-camera outdoor setup?

Yes, combining both models is ideal for large properties. Use Pro 2 for high-traffic areas (1080p clarity) and Arlo Pro for less critical zones, all managed through the same app.

Are there subscription differences when mixing Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2 cameras?

No. Arlo’s subscription plans (e.g., Arlo Smart) apply uniformly regardless of camera mix. Both models support cloud storage and AI features like person detection under the same plan.

Do Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2 share the same mounting hardware?

Mostly. Both use magnetic mounts, but the Pro 2’s slightly larger size may require its specific mount (included). Check compatibility before reusing existing mounts.