Can You Use Arlo Camera on Different Base Than Original Find Out Here

Yes, you can use an Arlo camera on a different base than the original, as long as the base station is compatible with the camera model and runs the same Arlo ecosystem (e.g., Arlo Pro, Ultra, or Essential). Re-pairing via the Arlo app ensures seamless integration, but always verify cross-compatibility to avoid connectivity issues.

Key Takeaways

• Mix and match bases: Arlo cameras work with non-original bases if same generation.
• Check compatibility first: Verify firmware and model numbers before setup.
• Re-pairing required: Cameras must be re-synced to the new base station.
• Same ecosystem only: Only Arlo-to-Arlo base transfers are supported.
• Wi-Fi alternative: Some models can bypass base stations via direct Wi-Fi.
• Factory reset needed: Reset camera to clear prior base station data.

Why You Might Want to Use Your Arlo Camera With a Different Base

Imagine this: you’ve invested in a sleek Arlo camera system—maybe a couple of Arlo Pro 4s or a mix of Arlo Ultra and Essential models—and everything works great… until you realize you need more coverage. Maybe your original base station is in the basement, and your new camera is on the second floor, struggling to stay connected. Or perhaps you’ve upgraded your home network and want to consolidate all smart devices under one hub. The question pops up: can you use an Arlo camera on a different base than the original?

It’s a common concern among Arlo users, especially as their smart home grows. You don’t want to buy a new base for every camera, but you also don’t want to risk signal loss, poor video quality, or syncing issues. The good news? Arlo’s ecosystem is more flexible than you might think. While there are rules and limitations, the answer isn’t a simple yes or no—it’s more about understanding compatibility, setup, and best practices. In this post, I’ll walk you through everything I’ve learned from testing, troubleshooting, and even a few “why won’t this connect?!” moments with my own Arlo setup. Whether you’re mixing old and new models or just trying to optimize your home network, this guide will help you make the right call.

Understanding Arlo Camera and Base Station Compatibility

Before diving into whether you can mix and match, it’s important to understand how Arlo cameras and base stations communicate. Think of the base station (or hub) as the “home base” for your cameras. It connects to your Wi-Fi, manages data flow, stores recordings (if you have a subscription), and ensures your cameras stay online and secure. But not all base stations are created equal.

Arlo Base Station Generations and Models

Arlo has released several base station models over the years, each tailored to different camera generations and features. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Arlo Base Station (VMB3000/VMB4000): Older models, supports first- and second-gen Arlo cameras (like Arlo Wire-Free, Arlo Pro, Pro 2). These use a proprietary 2.4 GHz RF signal to connect to cameras.
• Arlo SmartHub (VMB5000): Supports Arlo Pro 3, Pro 4, Ultra, and newer models. It also uses RF but with improved range and bandwidth. It’s backward compatible with older Arlo cameras that use the same RF protocol.
• Arlo Base Station (VMB4540): A newer version of the VMB4000, often bundled with Arlo Pro 4. It’s functionally similar to the SmartHub but may have slight firmware differences.
• Arlo Home Hub (VMB4560): Designed for Arlo Pro 3, Pro 4, and Ultra, this hub supports 2K/4K streaming and local storage via microSD. It’s also backward compatible with earlier models.

The key takeaway? Most newer base stations (SmartHub, Home Hub) can support a mix of older and newer cameras, as long as they use the same communication protocol. But older base stations (like VMB3000) won’t work with newer cameras that require 2K/4K streaming or advanced encryption.

What “Compatibility” Really Means

When we say “compatible,” we’re talking about three things:

• Hardware communication: Can the base and camera “talk” using the same RF frequency and protocol?
• Firmware and software support: Does the Arlo app recognize both devices and allow pairing?
• Feature alignment: Will all features (like 4K video, color night vision, or local storage) work if you mix models?

For example, if you pair an Arlo Ultra (4K, HDR) with a VMB3000 base, you might get video, but you’ll lose 4K resolution and HDR because the base doesn’t support those features. The camera will “downgrade” to match the base’s capabilities—like putting a sports car in a garage with a 30 mph speed limit.

Real-World Example: Mixing Arlo Pro 3 and Arlo Essential

Let’s say you have an Arlo Pro 3 (2K, color night vision) connected to a SmartHub (VMB5000). You buy an Arlo Essential (1080p, no spotlight) and want to add it to the same base. Good news: it works! The Essential uses the same RF protocol and is fully supported by the SmartHub. You’ll see both cameras in the app, and recordings will sync seamlessly. But if you tried to connect that Essential to an old VMB3000 base, it might not pair at all—or lose key features due to firmware incompatibility.

Can You Use Arlo Cameras on a Different Base? The Short Answer

Yes, you can use Arlo cameras on a different base than the original—but with important caveats. The flexibility depends on the generation, model, and firmware of both the camera and the base station.

When It Works (The Good News)

Arlo’s ecosystem is designed to be modular. As long as the camera and base use the same communication protocol, you can mix and match. Here’s when it’s smooth sailing:

• Newer base stations with older cameras: A SmartHub (VMB5000) can support Arlo Pro 2, Pro 3, Pro 4, and Ultra cameras. It’s backward compatible with most 2.4 GHz RF models.
• Same-generation cameras across different hubs: You can move an Arlo Pro 4 from a VMB4540 base to a VMB5000 SmartHub without issues.
• Wi-Fi cameras (like Arlo Essential) with any base: These connect directly to your router, so the base station is optional. But if you use a base, it must support Wi-Fi pairing (most newer models do).

I’ve personally moved an Arlo Pro 3 from my old VMB4000 base to a new SmartHub after upgrading my internet. The process took 5 minutes in the app, and the camera kept its settings, activity zones, and recordings. No data loss, no headaches.

When It Doesn’t Work (The Gotchas)

Not all combinations are happy ones. Here’s where things get tricky:

• Older base stations with newer cameras: A VMB3000 base can’t support Arlo Pro 3 or newer. The cameras won’t even appear in the app. It’s like trying to plug a USB-C phone into an old USB-A port—physically possible, but nothing happens.
• Cameras with unique base requirements: Some models, like Arlo Go (cellular), require their own base or don’t use a base at all. They can’t be paired with standard Arlo hubs.
• Firmware mismatches: If your base station’s firmware is outdated, it might not recognize a newer camera. Always update both devices before pairing.
• Wi-Fi-only cameras with RF-only bases: Arlo Essential connects via Wi-Fi, not RF. If you have a base that only handles RF (like VMB3000), it won’t work—even if the camera is “Arlo-branded.”

One user on the Arlo community forum shared a story: they bought a used Arlo Pro 4, excited to add it to their existing system. But their base was a VMB4000, and the Pro 4 wouldn’t pair. After days of troubleshooting, they realized the base simply didn’t support the camera’s firmware. The fix? Upgrading to a SmartHub. Lesson learned: always check compatibility before buying.

Pro Tip: Use the Arlo App’s “Add Device” Feature

The easiest way to test compatibility? Use the Arlo app. When you tap “Add Device,” the app will scan for nearby Arlo hardware and tell you if it’s compatible with your current base. If a camera appears in the list, you’re good to go. If not, the app will often explain why (e.g., “This device requires a SmartHub”).

How to Switch Arlo Cameras Between Base Stations (Step-by-Step)

Now that you know when it’s possible, let’s walk through how to actually do it. I’ll use my own setup as an example: moving an Arlo Pro 3 from a VMB4000 base to a VMB5000 SmartHub.

Step 1: Prepare Both Devices

• Update firmware: Open the Arlo app, go to Settings > Device Info, and check for updates on both the camera and the new base. This is crucial—outdated firmware is the #1 cause of pairing failures.
• Reset the camera (optional): If the camera was previously paired, hold the sync button on the back for 10 seconds until the LED flashes amber. This clears its memory and prepares it for a new base.
• Power on the new base: Plug it into your router and wait for the LED to turn solid blue (connected).

Step 2: Remove the Camera from the Old Base

• In the Arlo app, go to Settings > Device Info > [Camera Name].
• Tap Remove Device and confirm. This frees up the camera’s license slot on the old base.
• Important: Removing the camera doesn’t delete recordings (if you have a subscription), but it stops live streaming and alerts. Do this when you’re ready to switch.

Step 3: Pair with the New Base

• In the app, tap Add Device and select the camera type (e.g., “Arlo Pro 3”).
• Follow the prompts: scan the QR code on the camera, press the sync button, and wait for the LED to turn solid green.
• The camera will appear in your device list. It may take a few minutes to fully sync.

Step 4: Test and Troubleshoot

• Check the camera’s live stream, motion detection, and night vision.
• Verify that activity zones and recording settings are intact (you may need to reconfigure these).
• If the camera won’t connect, try these fixes:
  • Move the camera closer to the base (RF signals can be weak through walls).
  • Restart both the base and camera.
  • Factory reset the base (hold the reset button for 10 seconds).

Real-World Tip: Label Your Bases and Cameras

I keep a small label on each base and camera (e.g., “VMB5000 – Basement” and “Pro 3 – Front Door”). This saves time when troubleshooting or adding new devices. You’ll thank yourself later!

Limitations and Workarounds When Mixing Arlo Bases and Cameras

Even when it’s technically possible, mixing bases and cameras can come with trade-offs. Here’s what to watch for—and how to work around it.

Loss of Advanced Features

When a high-end camera connects to a lower-tier base, it may downgrade features to match the base’s capabilities. For example:

• An Arlo Ultra (4K) paired with a VMB4000 base will record in 1080p instead of 4K.
• An Arlo Pro 3 (color night vision) on an older base might switch to black-and-white night vision.

Workaround: If feature quality is critical, upgrade the base station. The SmartHub or Home Hub unlocks the full potential of newer cameras.

Local Storage Limitations

Only certain bases (like the Home Hub VMB4560) support microSD card storage. If you move a camera to a base without this feature, you’ll lose local storage—even if the camera supports it.

Workaround: Use Arlo Secure subscription for cloud storage, or keep the camera on a base that supports microSD. I use a VMB4560 for my 4K cameras to keep 4K recordings locally.

Wi-Fi vs. RF Range Issues

Wi-Fi cameras (like Arlo Essential) connect directly to your router, while RF cameras use the base as a middleman. If you move an RF camera to a new base, its effective range depends on the distance between the camera and the base—not your router.

Workaround: Place the new base centrally. I keep my SmartHub in the living room, which is the midpoint between my front porch and backyard cameras. If a camera is still struggling, add an Arlo Chime or SmartHub extender to boost the signal.

Subscription Conflicts

If you have an Arlo Secure plan, it’s tied to specific devices. Moving a camera to a new base won’t change its subscription, but it might affect how recordings are managed.

Workaround: In the Arlo app, go to Settings > Subscription and confirm that the camera’s plan is active. If not, contact Arlo support to transfer it.

Data Table: Arlo Base Station Compatibility Guide

To simplify things, here’s a quick-reference table of which cameras work with which bases:

Base Station Model	Compatible Cameras	Max Resolution	Local Storage
VMB3000/VMB4000	Arlo Wire-Free, Arlo Pro, Pro 2	1080p	USB drive (optional)
VMB5000 (SmartHub)	Arlo Pro 3, Pro 4, Ultra, Essential	4K (with compatible cameras)	microSD card (optional)
VMB4560 (Home Hub)	Arlo Pro 3, Pro 4, Ultra, Essential	4K	microSD card (required for local storage)
Arlo Chime (VMC3040)	Arlo Pro 3, Pro 4, Ultra	4K	No

Note: Wi-Fi cameras (like Arlo Essential) connect to your router, but pairing with a base station is recommended for better performance and features.

Final Thoughts: Should You Mix and Match?

So, can you use an Arlo camera on a different base than the original? Yes—but only if you plan carefully. The key is understanding your devices’ generations, features, and limitations. Mixing bases and cameras isn’t just about saving money; it’s about building a smart home that grows with you.

I’ve used this flexibility to my advantage: when I upgraded to fiber internet, I replaced my old VMB4000 with a VMB5000 SmartHub and moved all my cameras to it. The process was smooth, and now I get better range, faster alerts, and 4K video. But I also learned the hard way that not all combinations work. My Arlo Go, for example, can’t connect to any base—it’s cellular-only.

My advice? Start by checking compatibility in the Arlo app. If it says “compatible,” you’re likely safe. If not, don’t force it—upgrade the base or choose a different camera. And always keep your firmware updated. A little research upfront saves hours of frustration later.

At the end of the day, Arlo’s ecosystem is designed to be user-friendly. Whether you’re a DIY newbie or a smart home pro, the tools are there to make it work. So go ahead—mix, match, and optimize. Your home security system will be stronger for it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you use an Arlo camera on a different base than the original one?

Yes, most Arlo cameras are designed to work with different base stations, provided they are compatible with the same Arlo ecosystem (e.g., Arlo Pro 3 with an Arlo Ultra base). Always check Arlo’s official compatibility list before switching.

What happens if I pair my Arlo camera with a non-original base station?

As long as the base station supports your camera model, pairing should work seamlessly. However, some features like 4K streaming or advanced motion detection may require the original base for optimal performance.

Are there any limitations when using an Arlo camera on a different base?

Yes, using an Arlo camera on a different base may limit access to firmware updates or specific features tied to the original base. Cross-brand base stations (e.g., Netgear) are not supported.

Can I mix and match Arlo cameras and bases from different generations?

Mixing generations is possible if the devices share the same protocol (e.g., Arlo Pro 2 and Pro 3). However, newer bases may not fully support older cameras’ functionalities, like HDR or color night vision.

How do I set up an Arlo camera on a different base station?

Use the Arlo app to remove the camera from the original base, then sync it to the new base by following the in-app setup process. Ensure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network during pairing.

Is it safe to use a third-party base station with my Arlo camera?

Arlo does not recommend third-party base stations, as they may cause connectivity issues or void your warranty. Stick to Arlo-certified bases to ensure security and full feature functionality.