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

Yes, you can mix Arlo Pro and Pro 2 cameras in the same system for seamless security coverage. Both models are fully compatible with the same base station and app, allowing you to leverage the Pro 2’s enhanced features—like 1080p video and improved motion detection—alongside the reliable Arlo Pro. This flexibility lets you customize your setup without replacing existing hardware.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can mix Arlo Pro and Pro 2 cameras in one system seamlessly.
• Same base station works for both models—no need for separate hubs.
• Video quality differs—Pro 2 offers 1080p vs. Pro’s 720p resolution.
• Motion detection varies—Pro 2 has advanced PIR sensors for fewer false alerts.
• Night vision compatibility—both use IR, but Pro 2 has enhanced clarity.
• Sync firmware updates to ensure smooth integration between models.
• Use Arlo app to manage all cameras effortlessly in one dashboard.

Why Mixing Arlo Pro and Pro 2 Cameras Makes Sense (And When It Doesn’t)

Imagine this: You’ve had your Arlo Pro cameras for a couple of years, and they’ve been rock solid. They’ve caught package thieves, kept an eye on your backyard, and even scared off a raccoon or two. But now, you’re thinking about expanding your system—maybe adding a camera in the attic, near the pool, or at the side gate. That’s when you see the Arlo Pro 2, which promises better resolution, improved night vision, and a few extra features. You start wondering: Can you mix Arlo Pro and Pro 2 cameras?

It’s a question I’ve heard more than once from friends and readers. The good news? Yes, you can. But it’s not as simple as just plugging them in and calling it a day. Mixing these two generations of Arlo cameras has its perks and its quirks. In this post, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from compatibility and setup to real-world performance and potential pitfalls. Think of this as a friendly chat over coffee, where I share what I’ve learned after testing both systems side by side.

Understanding the Key Differences Between Arlo Pro and Pro 2

Before we dive into mixing them, let’s get clear on what sets these two models apart. Knowing the differences helps you make smarter decisions about where to place each camera and how to manage your overall system.

Video Quality and Resolution

The most obvious upgrade in the Arlo Pro 2 is video quality. The original Arlo Pro records in 720p HD, while the Pro 2 jumps to 1080p Full HD. That’s a big difference, especially if you’re trying to identify faces or read license plates.

For example, I had an Arlo Pro covering my front porch. It worked fine for spotting someone, but when a package thief showed up, the video was too grainy to make out facial features. When I added a Pro 2 in the same spot later, the clarity was night and day. You could see the person’s hat, the color of their jacket, and even the brand on their backpack.

So, if you’re mixing cameras, consider using the Pro 2s for high-traffic or high-risk areas—front door, driveway, garage. Use the older Pro cameras for less critical zones, like side yards or backyard corners.

Night Vision and Motion Detection

Both cameras have night vision, but the Pro 2 uses infrared LEDs that reach farther and provide clearer black-and-white footage in low light. The original Pro’s night vision is decent but can look a bit washed out in total darkness.

The Pro 2 also has advanced motion detection with customizable activity zones. You can tell it to ignore trees swaying in the wind or focus only on the sidewalk. The original Pro has motion detection too, but it’s more basic—less customizable, more false alarms.

This means if you’re mixing, you might want to set your Pro 2s to be more sensitive or use activity zones, while the Pro cameras can handle broader monitoring with fewer tweaks.

Weather Resistance and Build

Both cameras are rated IP65, meaning they’re dust-tight and can handle rain. But the Pro 2 feels slightly more robust. I’ve had both in my backyard through two winters, and while the Pro 2’s casing has held up better against UV damage and temperature swings, the original Pro has also survived just fine.

The real difference here is subtle: the Pro 2 has a slightly better mounting system with a stronger magnetic base. If you’re in a windy area or plan to mount on a shaky surface, the Pro 2 might hold more securely.

Battery Life and Charging

Both use rechargeable lithium-ion batteries and last about 3–6 months, depending on usage. The Pro 2 has a slight edge in efficiency, but not enough to be a dealbreaker. Both support the same charging dock, so you can use the same charger for both models.

One tip: I keep a spare battery for each camera. When one dies, I swap in the charged one and recharge the dead one. Since the batteries are identical in size and connector, I can even mix chargers if needed.

Can You Mix Arlo Pro and Pro 2 on the Same System?

Yes—and here’s the good news: Arlo Pro and Pro 2 are fully compatible on the same system. They connect to the same base station, appear in the same Arlo app, and can be managed together seamlessly.

Base Station Compatibility

Both cameras use the Arlo SmartHub (formerly known as the Arlo Bridge or Base Station). As long as you have a compatible base station—either the VMB4000 (for Pro) or the VMB4500/4540 (for Pro 2)—they’ll work together. The newer SmartHubs support both generations.

I upgraded from the original base station to the VMB4540. I was worried I’d have to replace all my old cameras, but nope. I just paired the Pro 2s with the same hub, and they all showed up in the app. The system recognized them automatically.

Pro Tip: If you’re starting fresh, get the VMB4540 or VMB4500. It supports both cameras and future-proofs your setup for newer Arlo models.

App and User Interface

The Arlo app (available on iOS and Android) treats both cameras equally. You’ll see all your devices in one dashboard, grouped by location or room. You can view live feeds, playback recordings, adjust settings, and even create custom modes—like “Away” or “Home”—that apply to all cameras at once.

One thing I love: you can set different motion detection rules for each camera. So my Pro 2 in the front yard uses activity zones to ignore the neighbor’s cat, while my original Pro in the backyard just records everything within 30 feet.

The app doesn’t differentiate between Pro and Pro 2 in the UI. You’ll only notice the resolution difference when you zoom in on recorded clips.

Cloud and Local Storage

Both cameras support Arlo Smart subscription plans, which offer cloud storage, person detection, package detection, and activity zone customization. You can mix cameras on the same plan, but here’s a catch: not all features are available on the original Pro.

For example, person detection and package alerts only work with Pro 2 and newer models. The original Pro still records video and sends motion alerts, but it won’t tell you if it’s a person, animal, or package.

So if you’re using a mixed system with a Smart subscription, your Pro 2s will get the AI-powered features, but your Pro cameras won’t. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s something to keep in mind when reviewing alerts.

Local storage tip: You can also use a microSD card in the base station for local recording. Both cameras can record to the card, regardless of model. This is great if you want to avoid subscription fees or keep sensitive footage offline.

Setting Up a Mixed Arlo Pro and Pro 2 System: Step-by-Step

Setting up a mixed system is easier than you might think. Here’s how I did it, with a few lessons learned along the way.

Step 1: Choose the Right Base Station

Make sure your base station supports both models. If you have the original VMB4000, it works with both Pro and Pro 2. But if you’re buying new, go for the VMB4540. It has better Wi-Fi range and supports newer features like 4K (though your Pro/Pro 2 won’t use that).

I kept my old base station for a while, but when I added a Pro 2, I noticed it struggled with signal strength in the back of the house. Upgrading to the VMB4540 fixed that. The newer hub has a stronger antenna and better mesh support.

Step 2: Pair the Cameras

Open the Arlo app and go to “Add Device.” Select “Arlo Pro” or “Arlo Pro 2” depending on which one you’re adding. The app walks you through the pairing process—just press the sync button on the camera and wait for the light to blink.

I added two Pro 2s and one original Pro at the same time. The app paired all three within 10 minutes. No conflicts, no errors.

Tip: Pair one camera at a time. If you try to add multiple at once, the app might get confused, especially with older models.

Step 3: Name and Position Cameras

Once paired, give each camera a clear name—like “Front Porch – Pro 2” or “Backyard – Pro.” This helps you tell them apart in recordings and alerts.

Then, position them carefully. I made the mistake of putting a Pro 2 right next to a Pro in the backyard. The Pro 2’s wider field of view (130° vs. 110°) meant it captured areas the Pro didn’t—and vice versa. Now I plan camera placements like a puzzle: overlapping slightly, but with each covering its own zone.

Step 4: Customize Settings

Go into each camera’s settings and adjust:

• Motion detection sensitivity (higher for Pro 2, lower for Pro to reduce false alarms)
• Activity zones (only on Pro 2, but you can still adjust sensitivity on Pro)
• Recording length (I set Pro 2s to 10 seconds, Pro to 8 seconds)
• Night vision mode (both have auto or manual, but Pro 2 has better low-light performance)

I also set up a “Night Mode” in the app that turns off motion alerts for the backyard cameras after 11 PM, since I only want alerts for the front and side doors.

Step 5: Test and Adjust

Walk around your property and trigger each camera. Check the app to see if alerts come through, if recordings start, and if the video quality meets your expectations.

I noticed one of my Pro cameras was missing motion events during heavy rain. After testing, I realized the lens was getting wet. I repositioned it under the eaves, and the issue was fixed.

Performance in Real-World Scenarios

How does a mixed system actually perform? Let me share a few real-life examples from my own setup.

Front Door Coverage

I have a Pro 2 covering my front porch and a Pro covering the side walkway. The Pro 2 catches clear footage of visitors, deliveries, and even a UPS driver who dropped a package (and came back to pick it up—caught on camera!).

The side walkway Pro doesn’t have person detection, but it’s set to high sensitivity. It caught a neighbor’s dog sniffing around the trash cans—something I wouldn’t have seen with just the Pro 2.

Result: Full coverage, no blind spots. The Pro 2 handles high-resolution needs; the Pro fills in the gaps.

Backyard Monitoring

I have two Pro 2s in the backyard—one facing the pool, one facing the shed—and one original Pro near the back gate. The Pro 2s use activity zones to ignore the kids playing, while the Pro at the gate records everything.

One night, someone tried to jimmy the gate lock. The Pro 2s didn’t catch it (wrong angle), but the Pro did. The video wasn’t crystal clear, but it showed the person’s height and clothing. I sent it to the police, and they recognized the suspect.

Lesson: Older cameras can still be valuable in less critical zones where you just need basic motion coverage.

Nighttime and Low-Light Performance

The Pro 2s are clearly better at night. I can see license plates on cars driving past my house. The original Pro? Not so much. But it still catches movement and sends alerts.

I’ve started using the Pro 2s for nighttime monitoring and the Pro for daytime. The system switches modes automatically based on light levels, so it works seamlessly.

Wi-Fi and Signal Strength

The base station handles both cameras well, but signal strength matters. I had one Pro 2 that kept disconnecting. I moved the base station to a central location (my home office), and now all cameras stay connected.

The original Pro has a slightly weaker Wi-Fi chip, so I placed it closer to the base station. The Pro 2s, with better antennas, can go farther—even into the backyard shed.

Pros and Cons of Mixing Arlo Pro and Pro 2 Cameras

Let’s be honest: mixing generations isn’t perfect. Here’s a balanced look at what works and what doesn’t.

The Pros

• Cost-effective expansion: You don’t have to replace all your old cameras. Add Pro 2s where you need better quality, keep Pro cameras where basic coverage is enough.
• Unified app experience: One dashboard, one login, one set of rules. No juggling multiple apps or accounts.
• Flexible feature use: Use Pro 2s for AI features (person detection, activity zones), Pro cameras for basic motion alerts.
• Same battery and charger: No need to buy new accessories. One charging dock for all.
• Future-proof base station: A single hub supports both, so you can add newer models later.

The Cons

• Uneven video quality: You’ll notice the difference when reviewing clips. Pro 2 footage is sharper, especially in low light.
• Feature gaps: Pro cameras miss out on AI-powered alerts and advanced motion zones.
• App clutter: Having multiple camera types can make the app feel a bit messy. Naming helps, but it’s not perfect.
• Potential signal issues: Older Pro cameras may struggle with Wi-Fi range compared to Pro 2s.
• No 4K or HDR: Neither model supports these features, but that’s not a downside of mixing—just a limitation of the hardware.

When to Avoid Mixing

There are a few cases where mixing might not be ideal:

• If you only care about the highest video quality and want a consistent look across all recordings.
• If you’re using advanced AI features (like package detection) and want them on every camera.
• If you’re setting up a new system and don’t already own Pro cameras. In that case, just go with Pro 2s (or newer models).

But if you’re expanding an existing Pro system, mixing is a smart, budget-friendly move.

Data Table: Arlo Pro vs. Pro 2 at a Glance

Feature	Arlo Pro	Arlo Pro 2
Resolution	720p HD	1080p Full HD
Night Vision	Up to 25 ft	Up to 30 ft (clearer)
Field of View	110°	130°
Motion Detection	Basic	Advanced (with activity zones)
AI Features (with subscription)	No	Yes (person, package, animal detection)
Weather Resistance	IP65	IP65
Battery Life	3–6 months	3–6 months (slightly more efficient)
Base Station Compatibility	VMB4000, VMB4500, VMB4540	VMB4000, VMB4500, VMB4540
Charging Dock Compatibility	Yes (same for both)	Yes (same for both)

Final Thoughts: Is Mixing Arlo Pro and Pro 2 Worth It?

After months of running a mixed system, I can confidently say: yes, it’s worth it—if you do it right. The ability to use your existing Arlo Pro cameras while upgrading to Pro 2s in key areas saves money, reduces waste, and gives you the best of both worlds.

You get high-resolution coverage where it matters most (front door, driveway) and reliable, no-frills monitoring in less critical zones (backyard, side gates). The unified app experience is smooth, and the setup process is straightforward.

Just remember: this isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. If you’re starting from scratch, consider newer models like the Arlo Pro 3 or Arlo Ultra for even better features. But if you already have Arlo Pro cameras, don’t feel pressured to replace them. The Pro 2 is a worthy upgrade—and it plays nicely with its older sibling.

At the end of the day, security is about coverage, reliability, and peace of mind. Whether it’s a 720p Pro or a 1080p Pro 2, having a camera where you need it is what matters most. Mix them, manage them, and let them work together to keep your home safe.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, you can mix Arlo Pro and Pro 2 cameras seamlessly within the same Arlo ecosystem. Both models work with the same base station and Arlo app, allowing unified monitoring and recording.

Do Arlo Pro and Pro 2 cameras require different base stations?

No, both Arlo Pro and Pro 2 cameras use the same Arlo Pro base station (VMB4000 or VMB4500). This makes it easy to integrate both models without additional hardware.

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

While both cameras deliver 1080p HD video, the Arlo Pro 2 offers enhanced features like 3-second look-back and activity zones. Mixed setups retain their individual specs, so quality remains consistent per camera.

Can you mix Arlo Pro and Pro 2 for cloud storage and plans?

Yes, both cameras use the same Arlo Smart cloud subscription service. You can manage recordings and alerts for mixed cameras under one plan, though features may vary by model.

Are there any limitations when pairing Arlo Pro and Pro 2 with accessories?

Most accessories (like mounts and solar panels) are compatible with both models. However, check compatibility for specific add-ons like the Arlo Pro 2 outdoor charging cable.

How do firmware updates work with mixed Arlo Pro and Pro 2 systems?

Firmware updates are handled independently for each camera model via the Arlo app. Updates ensure optimal performance and security, even in mixed setups.