Can You Reuse Old Arlo Camera on Different Base A Complete Guide

Yes, you can reuse old Arlo cameras on a different base station, provided they are compatible with the new base’s generation and firmware. This guide walks you through syncing, resetting, and troubleshooting to ensure seamless integration, saving you money and reducing e-waste—just check model compatibility first.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can reuse old Arlo cameras on a new base with proper setup.
• Reset the camera first to clear previous base connections and avoid errors.
• Check compatibility between camera and base models before attempting reuse.
• Use the Arlo app to smoothly sync the camera to the new base.
• Reuse saves money and reduces waste by extending device lifespan.
• Update firmware on both devices to ensure seamless integration and performance.

Why Reusing Old Arlo Cameras Might Be a Smart Move

Let’s face it—smart home tech moves fast. You bought an Arlo camera setup a few years ago, maybe for peace of mind when you’re away, or to keep an eye on the front porch. Now, you’ve upgraded to a newer model with better night vision or a wider field of view. But what about those old Arlo cameras sitting in a drawer? Are they just destined for landfill, or can they get a second life?

The good news is that many Arlo users are asking the same question: can you reuse old Arlo camera on different base? And the answer isn’t a simple yes or no. It depends on your specific models, the base station or hub you’re using, and your goals. Whether you’re trying to expand coverage, repurpose a camera for a new location, or simply avoid spending more money, reusing an old Arlo camera can be a smart, eco-friendly choice. But it’s not always plug-and-play. I’ve been there—tearing open old boxes, scanning QR codes, and wondering if my old camera will even talk to my new system. So, let’s walk through everything you need to know, from compatibility to step-by-step setup, with real-world tips and a few “aha!” moments along the way.

Understanding Arlo Camera and Base Station Compatibility

Before you start pairing your old Arlo camera with a new base, it’s crucial to understand how Arlo’s ecosystem works. Not all cameras and bases are created equal, and compatibility is the name of the game. Let’s break it down.

Arlo Generations and Base Station Types

Arlo has gone through several generations of cameras and base stations, each with different communication protocols and features. The earliest models (Arlo VMS3030, Arlo Pro, Arlo Pro 2) used the original Arlo base station (VMB3000 or VMB4000). Later, Arlo introduced the Arlo SmartHub (VMB5000), which supports newer models like Arlo Pro 3, Pro 4, Ultra, and Ultra 2. Then came the Arlo Base Station Pro (VMB4540), designed for Pro 3, Pro 4, and Ultra series.

Here’s the key: older cameras often can’t connect directly to newer SmartHubs or Base Station Pros unless they support backward compatibility. For example:

• Arlo Pro (original): Works with VMB3000 and VMB4000, but not with VMB5000 or VMB4540.
• Arlo Pro 2: Works with VMB4000 and VMB4540, but not with VMB5000.
• Arlo Pro 3/4 and Ultra: Work with VMB4540 and VMB5000.

So, if you have an original Arlo Pro and a new SmartHub, you’re out of luck unless you keep your old base station around. This is a common frustration—people assume newer hubs are “universal,” but that’s not always true.

Wi-Fi vs. Hub-Based Cameras

Another twist: some newer Arlo cameras (like Arlo Essential, Arlo Go, or Arlo Wired Floodlight) connect directly to Wi-Fi and don’t need a base station at all. But older models (especially Pro and Ultra series) rely on the base for power, local storage, and extended battery life. This means:

• If your old camera is hub-dependent, you must use a compatible base station.
• If your new setup is Wi-Fi-based, you can’t just plug an old camera into it unless it supports Wi-Fi (rare in older models).

Tip: Check your camera’s model number on the back or in the Arlo app. Then, cross-reference it with Arlo’s official compatibility chart (available on their support site). It’s the best way to avoid surprises.

Real-World Example: Mixing Generations

Let’s say you have an Arlo Pro 2 camera and a new Arlo Base Station Pro (VMB4540). Good news—it’s compatible! But what if you’re using an Arlo SmartHub (VMB5000)? Then, no dice. I learned this the hard way when I tried to add my old Pro 2 to my new Ultra setup. The app just wouldn’t let me add it. I ended up keeping my old base station (VMB4000) just for that one camera. It’s not ideal, but it works.

Takeaway: Always verify compatibility before assuming your old camera will work with a new base. A little research saves a lot of frustration.

How to Pair an Old Arlo Camera with a New Base Station

Okay, so you’ve confirmed compatibility. Now comes the fun part: actually getting your old camera to talk to the new base. This isn’t always as simple as “add device,” but with the right steps, it’s doable. Here’s how.

Step 1: Reset the Old Camera

First, you need to wipe the old camera’s memory so it can connect to a new base. This is called “resetting” or “factory resetting.”

• For most Arlo Pro and Ultra cameras: Press and hold the sync button (usually on the back or side) for 10–15 seconds until the LED blinks amber and green.
• For older models (like original Arlo): The process might vary slightly. Check the manual, but it’s usually a long press on the sync button.

Pro tip: Do this near the new base station. The camera needs a strong signal during setup.

Step 2: Prepare the New Base Station

Make sure your new base station is:

• Powered on and connected to your router (via Ethernet, if required).
• Registered in the Arlo app under your account.
• Not already at its camera limit (most hubs support up to 5–10 cameras, depending on the model).

If the base station is new, follow the setup wizard in the Arlo app to get it online. You’ll need Wi-Fi credentials and a strong signal.

Step 3: Add the Camera in the Arlo App

Now, open the Arlo app and:

1. Tap the “+” or “Add Device” button.
2. Select “Camera” and choose your old camera model (e.g., “Arlo Pro 2”).
3. When prompted, press the sync button on the camera (yes, again) to put it in pairing mode.
4. Wait for the app to detect the camera. This can take 1–2 minutes.

Common issue: The app says “No cameras found.” If this happens:

• Check the camera’s battery (if wireless). Low battery can prevent pairing.
• Move the camera closer to the base station (within 10–15 feet).
• Restart the base station and try again.

Step 4: Name and Position the Camera

Once paired, give the camera a descriptive name (e.g., “Backyard – Old Pro 2”) and assign it to a location. This helps you keep track of which camera is which, especially if you’re mixing old and new models.

Tip: Use the live view to test the camera’s field of view and adjust its position before mounting.

Real-World Example: My Garage Camera Revival

Last year, I repurposed an old Arlo Pro 2 (from my front porch) to monitor my garage. I reset it, paired it with my VMB4540 base station, and mounted it near the garage door. The setup took about 10 minutes, but the camera worked perfectly. The only hiccup? The battery drained faster than my newer Pro 3, so I ended up hardwiring it for power. Lesson learned: older cameras may have weaker batteries or higher power consumption.

Challenges and Limitations When Reusing Arlo Cameras

While reusing old Arlo cameras can be a win, it’s not without challenges. Let’s talk about the realities—so you’re not caught off guard.

Performance Differences

Older cameras may not perform as well as newer ones, even if they’re technically compatible. For example:

• Video quality: An Arlo Pro 2 records 1080p, while a Pro 4 does 2K. If you’re used to crisp footage, the older camera might look a bit grainy.
• Night vision: Older models use infrared LEDs, while newer ones have color night vision. The difference can be dramatic in low light.
• Field of view: Newer cameras often have wider angles (up to 180 degrees). Your old camera might feel “narrow.”

Tip: If image quality is critical (e.g., for security), consider whether the older camera is up to the task. Sometimes, it’s worth investing in a new one.

Battery Life and Power Options

Older wireless cameras (like Arlo Pro and Pro 2) have replaceable batteries, but they degrade over time. After 2–3 years, a battery might only last 1–2 months instead of 3–6. You can replace the battery, but it’s an added cost ($20–$30 per pack).

Alternatively, you can hardwire older cameras using a USB power adapter (if the model supports it). This is a great option for indoor or covered outdoor areas.

Pro tip: Check if your old camera has a “battery saver” mode in the app. It reduces recording time to extend battery life.

Software and App Limitations

Arlo occasionally updates its app to drop support for older cameras. For example, in 2022, Arlo announced that some original Arlo cameras (VMS3030) would lose cloud storage support. While they still work locally, you can’t access them remotely without a subscription.

What to do:

• Check Arlo’s official support page for your camera model to see if it’s still supported.
• If cloud storage is important, consider upgrading to a newer camera or using local storage (if your base supports it).

Signal Range and Interference

Older cameras may have weaker Wi-Fi or RF signals, especially if you’re placing them far from the base station. I once tried to reuse an old Arlo Pro in my backyard, but it kept losing connection because of a brick wall. I ended up moving the base station closer or using a Wi-Fi extender.

Tip: Use the Arlo app’s “signal strength” tool during setup to check connectivity before mounting the camera.

Creative Ways to Repurpose Old Arlo Cameras

Just because your old camera isn’t perfect doesn’t mean it’s useless. With a little creativity, you can give it a second life in unexpected ways.

Indoor Monitoring

Older Arlo cameras work great indoors. Use them to:

• Monitor pets or kids (e.g., in a nursery or playroom).
• Watch over elderly family members (with their permission, of course).
• Keep an eye on valuable items (e.g., a home office or workshop).

Pro tip: Hardwire the camera for continuous power. This avoids battery changes and ensures it’s always on.

Secondary Coverage

Use your old camera to fill in blind spots. For example:

• Mount it in a garage, shed, or basement where you don’t need high-resolution footage.
• Place it near a back gate or side yard for basic motion alerts.

Example: I use my old Arlo Pro 2 to monitor my trash cans. It’s not glamorous, but it’s perfect for catching raccoons in the act.

Testing and Experimenting

Old cameras are great for testing new setups. Want to try a new mounting position or test motion detection zones? Use your old camera first. If it works, upgrade to a newer model later.

DIY Projects and Hacks

Tech-savvy users can hack old Arlo cameras for fun. For example:

• Use them as security cameras for a shed or workshop.
• Integrate them with Home Assistant or other smart home platforms (if supported).
• Turn them into timelapse cameras for gardening or construction projects.

Warning: Hacking can void warranties and may violate Arlo’s terms of service. Proceed at your own risk.

Data and Compatibility Reference Table

To make things easier, here’s a quick-reference table for common Arlo camera and base station combinations. This is based on Arlo’s official compatibility guidelines and real-world testing.

Camera Model	Compatible Base Stations	Wi-Fi Direct?	Notes
Arlo (Original VMS3030)	VMB3000, VMB4000	No	No cloud support after 2022; local storage only
Arlo Pro	VMB3000, VMB4000	No	Requires base station; 720p video
Arlo Pro 2	VMB4000, VMB4540	No	1080p; battery lasts 3–6 months
Arlo Pro 3/4	VMB4540, VMB5000	No	2K video; color night vision
Arlo Ultra	VMB4540, VMB5000	No	4K video; advanced AI features
Arlo Essential	None (Wi-Fi direct)	Yes	No base required; 1080p

Note: Always double-check with Arlo’s official site, as compatibility can change with firmware updates.

Final Thoughts: Is Reusing Old Arlo Cameras Worth It?

So, can you reuse old Arlo camera on different base? The short answer is: yes, but with caveats. It depends on your specific models, your goals, and your willingness to work around limitations. If your old camera is compatible with your new base station, reusing it can save you money, reduce e-waste, and expand your coverage without breaking the bank.

But it’s not a magic fix. You might face performance gaps, battery issues, or software limitations. The key is to set realistic expectations. Use your old camera for secondary areas, indoor monitoring, or testing—not as your primary security camera if image quality or reliability is critical.

My advice? Start small. Reset one camera, pair it with your base, and test it for a week. If it works well, great! If not, you haven’t lost much. And remember: smart home tech is supposed to make life easier, not more stressful. If reusing an old camera feels like a hassle, it’s okay to let it go. Sometimes, the peace of mind from a newer, more reliable camera is worth the cost.

At the end of the day, the best system is the one that works for you. Whether you’re mixing old and new, sticking to one generation, or going all-in on Wi-Fi, the goal is the same: to feel safe, secure, and in control. So go ahead—dig out that old Arlo camera. With a little patience and the right approach, you might just give it a new lease on life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you reuse old Arlo cameras on a different base station?

Yes, you can reuse old Arlo cameras on a different base station, provided they are compatible with the same Arlo ecosystem (e.g., Arlo Pro, Arlo Ultra). Simply sync the camera to the new base using the Arlo app.

How do I transfer my old Arlo camera to a new base station?

To transfer your old Arlo camera, remove it from the current base in the Arlo app, then sync it to the new base by pressing the sync button and following the in-app instructions. This process typically takes less than a minute.

Are all Arlo cameras compatible with any Arlo base station?

Not all Arlo cameras are universally compatible with every base station. For example, Arlo Pro 3/4 requires a SmartHub or base station with firmware support, while older models like Arlo Q may work directly over Wi-Fi without a base.

Can I mix different generations of Arlo cameras on one base?

Yes, you can mix certain generations of old Arlo cameras on a different base, but ensure the base station supports the oldest camera model. Check Arlo’s compatibility chart for specifics before setup.

Will reusing an old Arlo camera on a new base affect its performance?

Performance depends on compatibility and signal strength. Older cameras may lack newer features but will function normally if the base station supports their firmware and connectivity standards.

Do I need to reset my old Arlo camera before using it with a different base?

Yes, a factory reset is recommended to clear previous settings. Press and hold the reset button on the camera for 10 seconds, then set it up as a new device with the new base.