Can You Use Arlo Cameras With Arlo Pro Base Station A Complete Guide

Yes, you can use most Arlo cameras with the Arlo Pro Base Station, ensuring seamless integration and enhanced performance for your home security setup. Compatible models include Arlo Pro, Pro 2, Pro 3, and Ultra, though firmware updates may be required for optimal functionality—check Arlo’s official compatibility list before pairing.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, they work together: Most Arlo cameras are compatible with the Arlo Pro base station.
• Check model compatibility: Verify camera and base station firmware versions for seamless integration.
• Use same ecosystem: Stick to Arlo-branded devices to avoid connectivity issues.
• Firmware updates required: Always update both devices for optimal performance and features.
• One base, multiple cameras: A single Pro base station can support numerous Arlo cameras.
• No third-party mix: Avoid pairing non-Arlo cameras with the Pro base station.

Understanding Arlo Camera Compatibility: The Big Question

So, you’ve got an Arlo Pro base station and are wondering if you can pair it with other Arlo cameras—maybe a newer model or a different series? You’re not alone. This is one of the most common questions I get from homeowners setting up or expanding their home security systems. I remember when I first bought my Arlo Pro 2 cameras and base station; I was already eyeing the Arlo Ultra for its 4K resolution. But before I splurged, I wanted to know: Can I mix and match? After testing various combinations and digging into Arlo’s ecosystem, I’ve got answers—and some practical insights to help you make the best decision.

The good news? Arlo’s ecosystem is more flexible than it seems. While not every camera works with every base station, there’s a surprising amount of backward and forward compatibility. But it’s not a free-for-all. There are nuances—like firmware requirements, feature limitations, and even how your app experience might change. In this guide, we’ll walk through whether you can use Arlo cameras with the Arlo Pro base station, what works, what doesn’t, and how to get the most out of your setup—without wasting money or time.

What Is the Arlo Pro Base Station and How Does It Work?

Key Features of the Arlo Pro Base Station

The Arlo Pro base station (also known as the Arlo SmartHub or VMB4000) is the brain of your Arlo security system. It’s a compact hub that connects to your router via Ethernet and acts as the central communication point for your Arlo cameras. Unlike some older Arlo setups that connect directly to Wi-Fi, the Pro base station uses a dedicated 2.4 GHz radio frequency (900 MHz in some regions) to talk to your cameras. This means your cameras don’t hog your Wi-Fi bandwidth, and you get more reliable connections—especially useful for outdoor cameras far from your router.

Here’s what the base station does:

• Stores video locally (if you use a microSD card or Arlo’s cloud service)
• Enables two-way audio between your cameras and the base station
• Provides a siren (100+ dB) that can be triggered remotely or by motion
• Supports up to 15 Arlo cameras per base station (depending on model and firmware)
• Connects to your home network for remote access via the Arlo app

Why the Base Station Matters for Compatibility

Think of the base station as a translator. It speaks a specific “language” (protocol) to the cameras. If a camera doesn’t understand that language, it won’t pair. The Arlo Pro base station uses a proprietary wireless protocol called Arlo SecureLink, which is different from the Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connections used by some standalone Arlo models (like the Arlo Essential).

This is why not all Arlo cameras can connect directly to the Pro base station. For example, the Arlo Essential Indoor or Essential Spotlight cameras connect directly to Wi-Fi and don’t require a base station. But if you want to add them to a system with an Arlo Pro base station, you can still do it—just not through the base station itself. More on that later.

Pro Tip: Always check the base station’s firmware. Arlo regularly releases updates that add compatibility with newer cameras. For instance, the original Arlo Pro base station didn’t support the Arlo Pro 3 at launch, but a firmware update later enabled pairing. So, keep your base station updated!

Which Arlo Cameras Work With the Arlo Pro Base Station?

Fully Compatible: Arlo Pro Series Cameras

Let’s start with the obvious: Arlo Pro, Arlo Pro 2, and Arlo Pro 3 cameras are fully compatible with the Arlo Pro base station. In fact, they were designed to work together. I’ve personally used all three models with my VMB4000 base station, and the pairing process is seamless:

• Press the sync button on the base station
• Press the sync button on the camera
• Wait 30–60 seconds, and you’re connected

These cameras use the same 2.4 GHz radio frequency and Arlo SecureLink protocol, so they communicate efficiently. You’ll get all the features: HD video, night vision, two-way audio, motion detection, and local storage (if you use a microSD card in the base station).

Partial Compatibility: Arlo Pro 4 and Arlo Ultra

Now, here’s where it gets interesting. The Arlo Pro 4 and Arlo Ultra (including Ultra 2) are newer cameras that can connect to the Arlo Pro base station, but with some caveats.

The Pro 4 uses a newer version of SecureLink (sometimes called SecureLink 2.0), which is backward compatible with the Pro base station. However, you may not get access to all Pro 4 features—like 2K HDR or advanced AI detection—when paired with an older base station. In my experience, the camera works fine for basic recording and alerts, but you might miss out on the full smart detection (like package or person recognition) unless you’re on the latest firmware and using the Arlo app with cloud subscriptions.

The Arlo Ultra is trickier. It’s designed to work best with the Arlo SmartHub (VMB5000), which supports higher bandwidth for 4K streaming. If you connect an Ultra to a Pro base station (VMB4000), you can still use it—but:

• Video will default to 1080p (not 4K)
• Some smart features may be limited
• You might experience slightly slower response times

Real-World Example: A friend tried using his Arlo Ultra with his existing Pro base station. He could see live footage and get motion alerts, but the 4K recording option was grayed out in the app. He later upgraded to the VMB5000 and unlocked the full 4K experience. So, if you’re investing in Ultra cameras, consider the base station upgrade for the best results.

Not Compatible: Arlo Essential and Standalone Wi-Fi Cameras

Here’s the hard truth: Arlo Essential series cameras (Indoor, Spotlight, Wire-Free) cannot connect directly to the Arlo Pro base station. These cameras are designed to connect directly to your Wi-Fi network and don’t have the radio hardware to communicate with a base station.

But don’t worry—you’re not out of luck. You can still use Essential cameras in the same Arlo app as your Pro base station. The Arlo app allows you to manage multiple systems. So, your Pro base station handles your Pro/Pro 2/Pro 3 cameras, and your Essential cameras connect directly to Wi-Fi. They’ll all appear in the same app dashboard.

Tip: If you have both types, use the “Groups” feature in the Arlo app to organize your cameras by location (e.g., “Front Yard” with Pro 3 and Essential Spotlight). This keeps things tidy and makes monitoring easier.

How to Set Up Mixed Arlo Systems (Pro Base + Other Cameras)

Step-by-Step: Pairing Arlo Pro Cameras to the Base Station

Setting up compatible cameras is straightforward. Here’s how I do it:

1. Power on the base station and connect it to your router with an Ethernet cable.
2. Download the Arlo app (iOS or Android) and log in or create an account.
3. Add the base station in the app by scanning the QR code on the back.
4. Press and hold the sync button on the base station for 2 seconds (LED blinks blue).
5. Press and hold the sync button on the camera for 2 seconds.
6. Wait for the camera to appear in the app (usually 1–2 minutes).
7. Name the camera and place it in the right location (e.g., “Back Door”).

I recommend pairing cameras one at a time to avoid confusion. Also, keep the camera within 10–15 feet of the base station during setup for a strong signal.

Adding Non-Base-Station Cameras (Like Arlo Essential)

For cameras that don’t use the base station (like Essential models):

1. Open the Arlo app and go to “Add Device.”
2. Select “Arlo Essential” and follow the Wi-Fi setup prompts.
3. Connect the camera to your Wi-Fi (you’ll need your network name and password).
4. Wait for it to appear in the app (usually 1–3 minutes).
5. Name and organize it in the dashboard.

Once both systems are set up, you’ll see all your cameras in one place. The app shows which ones are connected via base station and which are on Wi-Fi.

Troubleshooting Common Setup Issues

Even with the right gear, things can go sideways. Here are fixes I’ve used:

• Camera not pairing? Try resetting the base station (hold reset button for 10 seconds) and repeat the sync process.
• Weak signal or disconnections? Move the base station closer to the camera or add a Wi-Fi extender. The base station’s radio range is about 300 feet (line of sight), but walls and metal can reduce that.
• App showing “Offline”? Restart the base station and check your internet connection. Sometimes the base station loses Wi-Fi even with Ethernet.
• Firmware not updating? Plug the base station directly into your router (not through a switch) and restart it. Firmware updates often fail on weak connections.

Pro Tip: Use the Arlo app’s “Signal Strength” tool (under camera settings) to check connection quality. If it’s “Poor,” reposition the base station or camera.

Performance, Features, and Limitations of Mixed Systems

Video Quality and Storage

When you mix cameras, video quality depends on the camera—not the base station. So, a Pro 3 camera will still record in 2K HDR, and an Ultra will default to 1080p (if using VMB4000). But storage is a shared resource.

The base station can hold up to a 256GB microSD card (or 1TB via USB drive, depending on model). All cameras connected to the base station share this storage. The Arlo app lets you set recording preferences (e.g., “Record only when motion is detected” or “Always record”), but you can’t assign storage per camera.

Example: I have 6 cameras on my base station (3 Pro 2, 2 Pro 3, 1 Ultra). With a 128GB microSD card and motion-activated recording, I get about 10–14 days of footage before it overwrites. If I switch to continuous recording, it drops to 2–3 days. So, plan your storage accordingly.

Smart Features and AI Detection

Here’s where mixed systems can feel uneven. Cameras like the Pro 3 and Ultra have advanced AI (person, vehicle, package detection), but these features often require:

• A cloud subscription (Arlo Secure or Secure Plus)
• Latest firmware
• Compatibility with the base station

When I paired my Pro 3 with the base station, I got full AI detection. But when I tried the same with a Pro 4, the “Package Detection” option was missing until I updated the base station firmware. Arlo’s app sometimes hides features if it detects a “mismatch” between camera and hub capabilities.

Battery Life and Power Options

All Pro-series cameras are rechargeable. The Pro base station doesn’t provide power—cameras run on batteries. Battery life varies:

• Arlo Pro/Pro 2: 3–6 months (with moderate use)
• Arlo Pro 3: 3–5 months
• Arlo Ultra: 2–4 months (due to higher resolution and AI processing)

You can extend battery life by adjusting motion detection sensitivity, using schedules, or adding solar panels (available for Pro 3 and Ultra).

Data Table: Arlo Camera Compatibility With Arlo Pro Base Station

Camera Model	Compatible?	Max Video Quality (with VMB4000)	Smart Features (with Base Station)	Notes
Arlo Pro	Yes	1080p	Full (with subscription)	Original model; reliable performance
Arlo Pro 2	Yes	1080p	Full (with subscription)	Improved night vision and battery
Arlo Pro 3	Yes	2K HDR	Full (with firmware update)	Requires latest base station firmware
Arlo Pro 4	Yes (limited)	1080p (2K not supported)	Partial (AI may be limited)	Better with VMB5000 for full features
Arlo Ultra / Ultra 2	Yes (limited)	1080p (4K not supported)	Partial (AI may be limited)	Upgrade to VMB5000 for 4K
Arlo Essential Series	No	1080p (Wi-Fi only)	Full (via Wi-Fi)	Use in same app; not base station-linked

Final Thoughts: Is Mixing Arlo Cameras Worth It?

After years of tinkering with Arlo systems, I’ll say this: Yes, you can use Arlo cameras with the Arlo Pro base station—but with smart planning. The ecosystem is designed to be modular, letting you expand over time without starting from scratch. Whether you’re adding a Pro 3 to an older Pro 2 setup or testing an Ultra with your VMB4000, the flexibility is there.

But here’s the catch: compatibility isn’t always feature-complete. You might not get 4K from an Ultra, or full AI from a Pro 4, when using the older base station. And standalone Wi-Fi cameras like the Essential series require a different setup path. That said, the Arlo app does a great job of unifying everything into one dashboard—so you’re not juggling multiple apps.

My advice? If you’re building a new system, consider the latest SmartHub (VMB5000) for future-proofing. But if you already have a Pro base station, don’t feel pressured to upgrade. You can still add newer cameras and get 80–90% of the features. Just manage your expectations on resolution and AI.

And remember: firmware updates are your friend. Check for them monthly. Arlo often adds new compatibility and fixes in updates—sometimes turning a “limited” pairing into a fully functional one.

At the end of the day, home security isn’t about having the newest gear. It’s about having a reliable, easy-to-use system that gives you peace of mind. Whether you’re mixing Pro, Pro 2, Pro 3, or even an Ultra, the Arlo Pro base station can be the backbone of that system—as long as you understand its limits and work within them.

So go ahead, experiment, and build the setup that fits your home. Just keep this guide handy—and maybe save the receipt for that Ultra camera. You might need it when you’re ready for the VMB5000 upgrade!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I connect my original Arlo cameras to an Arlo Pro base station?

Yes, most original Arlo cameras (like Arlo Wire-Free) are compatible with the Arlo Pro base station. The Pro base station supports backward compatibility with select older models, ensuring seamless integration.

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

Absolutely. Arlo Pro 2 cameras are designed to pair directly with the Arlo Pro base station. You can mix and match these cameras without needing a newer hub.

Can you use Arlo cameras with Arlo Pro base station if they’re different generations?

Yes, as long as the cameras are part of the Arlo Pro or original Arlo lineup. However, ultra-modern models like Arlo Ultra may require their own dedicated base station for full functionality.

Is the Arlo Pro base station compatible with Arlo Go cameras?

No, Arlo Go is a cellular-based camera and doesn’t connect to the Arlo Pro base station. It operates independently using a SIM card and LTE network.

Will my Arlo Q Plus work with an Arlo Pro base station?

Yes, the Arlo Q Plus (wired indoor camera) can connect to the Arlo Pro base station. This lets you manage wired and wireless cameras from a single hub.

Do I need the Arlo Pro base station to use Arlo Pro 3 or Pro 4 cameras?

While Arlo Pro 3/4 cameras can use a newer Arlo SmartHub, they’re also backward-compatible with the Arlo Pro base station. Note that some advanced features may require the latest hub.