Can You Use Arlo Pro Cameras With Arlo Pro 2 A Complete Guide

Yes, Arlo Pro cameras are fully compatible with Arlo Pro 2 systems, allowing seamless integration across both generations for a unified security setup. This cross-compatibility ensures you can mix and match cameras while retaining full functionality, including HD video, motion alerts, and cloud storage—making upgrades and expansions simple and cost-effective.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, they work together: Arlo Pro cameras are compatible with Arlo Pro 2 systems.
• Same base station: Both use the Arlo Pro base station for seamless connectivity.
• Mix and match freely: Combine Pro and Pro 2 cameras in one setup effortlessly.
• No firmware issues: Ensure all devices run the latest firmware for optimal performance.
• Unified app control: Manage both camera types via the Arlo app without extra steps.
• Shared features: Enjoy 7-day free cloud storage and 1080p resolution across both models.

Can You Use Arlo Pro Cameras With Arlo Pro 2? A Complete Guide

Imagine you’ve invested in Arlo Pro cameras for your home security setup, and now you’re thinking about upgrading to the newer Arlo Pro 2. Or maybe it’s the other way around—you already own Arlo Pro 2s and are considering adding older Arlo Pro units to expand your coverage. The big question is: Can you use Arlo Pro cameras with Arlo Pro 2? It’s a common concern for smart home users who want flexibility, scalability, and cost-efficiency without sacrificing performance.

You’re not alone. Many Arlo users find themselves in this exact situation—trying to mix and match hardware generations for a seamless, unified security system. Whether you’re a DIY home security enthusiast or someone who just wants peace of mind, compatibility matters. The good news? Arlo has built its ecosystem with a fair amount of backward and forward compatibility in mind. But there are caveats, trade-offs, and a few quirks you should know before hitting “buy” on that extra camera. In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know—from technical specs and setup tips to real-world performance and what features you might lose (or gain) when combining these two models. Let’s dive in.

Understanding Arlo Pro vs. Arlo Pro 2: Key Differences and Similarities

Hardware and Design

The Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2 share nearly identical physical designs. Both are weather-resistant, battery-powered, wireless cameras with magnetic mounts, making them easy to install indoors or outdoors. They both use the same 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi connection and connect through the Arlo SmartHub (or base station, depending on your setup). This similarity in form factor is the first clue that mixing the two might be possible—and indeed, it is.

Both models feature:

• 720p HD video (Pro) and 1080p HD video (Pro 2)
• 130-degree field of view
• Night vision (infrared LEDs)
• Two-way audio
• Weather resistance (IP65 rating)
• Rechargeable batteries

But here’s where the differences start to matter. The Arlo Pro 2 bumps up the resolution to 1080p, adds a built-in spotlight (on select models), and includes a louder siren. The Pro, meanwhile, maxes out at 720p. While that might not sound like a huge gap, it can affect clarity—especially when identifying faces or license plates at a distance.

Core Technology and Connectivity

Both cameras use the same Arlo SmartHub (or the older base station), which acts as a bridge between the cameras and your home Wi-Fi. This is a critical point: the SmartHub is the linchpin of compatibility. As long as your hub supports both models, you can mix and match. The original Arlo Pro launched with the Arlo Base Station (VMB3000 or VMB3500), while the Pro 2 uses the Arlo SmartHub (VMB4000 or VMB4500). The good news? The VMB4000 and VMB4500 hubs are backward compatible with Arlo Pro cameras. That means if you have a Pro 2 setup with a SmartHub, you can add older Arlo Pro units without issues.

However, if you’re using the older base station (VMB3000/3500) with Arlo Pro cameras, you can add Pro 2s—but you’ll miss out on some Pro 2-specific features like the spotlight and enhanced motion detection unless you upgrade the hub. It’s a one-way street: newer hubs support older cameras, but older hubs can’t fully unlock newer camera features.

Feature Gaps You Should Know

Even though both cameras work on the same platform, there are notable feature gaps:

• Resolution: Pro = 720p; Pro 2 = 1080p (clearer image, especially at night)
• Spotlight: Only Pro 2 has it (great for deterring intruders or illuminating dark areas)
• Motion detection: Pro 2 has improved PIR sensors and optional AI-powered person detection (with Arlo Smart subscription)
• Siren: Pro 2’s siren is louder and more effective
• Battery life: Pro 2 tends to last slightly longer due to more efficient components

So while you can mix them, keep in mind that your 720p Arlo Pro cameras won’t suddenly become 1080p just because they’re on the same network. You’ll have a hybrid system with varying image quality and feature sets.

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

Yes, But With Conditions

The short answer: yes, you can use Arlo Pro cameras with Arlo Pro 2—and vice versa—on the same Arlo account and SmartHub. This is one of Arlo’s strongest selling points for users who want to scale their system over time. You don’t need to replace all your cameras just because you want to upgrade a few.

Here’s how it works in practice:

• Your Arlo SmartHub (VMB4000 or VMB4500) connects to your home Wi-Fi.
• You can pair both Arlo Pro (720p) and Arlo Pro 2 (1080p) cameras to the same hub.
• All cameras appear in the Arlo app under one account.
• You can view live feeds, receive alerts, and manage settings from a single interface.

For example, Sarah from Austin has three Arlo Pro cameras she bought in 2018. Last year, she upgraded her front porch camera to an Arlo Pro 2 with a spotlight. She kept the same SmartHub, added the new camera through the app, and now has a mixed system that works flawlessly. “I didn’t want to replace all my working cameras,” she says. “Being able to mix them saved me over $300.”

Setup Process: Step-by-Step

Adding a Pro camera to a Pro 2 system (or vice versa) is straightforward:

1. Open the Arlo app and log in to your account.
2. Tap the “+” icon to add a new camera.
3. Follow the on-screen prompts to sync the camera with your SmartHub (usually by pressing the sync button on the hub).
4. Name the camera (e.g., “Backyard – Old Pro”) to avoid confusion.
5. Place the camera and test the connection.

Pro tip: Label your cameras clearly in the app. It’s easy to forget which is which when you have multiple units. Use names like “Front Door – Pro 2 (Spotlight)” or “Garage – Pro (720p)” to keep track of features and resolution.

What Happens in the App?

Once both types of cameras are connected, they appear side by side in the Arlo app. You’ll notice:

• Different thumbnail previews (Pro 2 shows sharper images)
• Feature-specific icons (e.g., a sun icon for the spotlight on Pro 2)
• Separate motion detection zones and alert settings per camera

The app treats each camera individually, so you can customize settings based on model. For example, you might set your Pro 2 to trigger the spotlight and siren on motion, while your older Pro only sends a notification. This flexibility is a big win for hybrid setups.

Performance and User Experience in Mixed Systems

Video Quality: The 720p vs. 1080p Reality

Let’s be honest: 720p is still decent, but it’s not the same as 1080p. In a mixed system, your viewing experience will vary. If you’re using a large monitor or zooming in on footage, the difference is noticeable. The Arlo Pro’s 720p footage can look grainy in low light, while the Pro 2’s 1080p stays clearer—especially with its enhanced night vision.

But here’s the thing: for general monitoring (like checking if the dog is outside or if the mail arrived), 720p is more than sufficient. You don’t need 1080p on every camera. Think of it like having a mix of HD and SD TVs in your home—some rooms need better quality, others don’t.

Real-world example: Mark in Denver uses a Pro 2 for his front door (high-traffic area) and Pro cameras for the backyard and side yard. “The front camera gets the most use, so I wanted 1080p and the spotlight,” he says. “The others are fine at 720p. I don’t need to see every leaf on the tree.”

Battery Life and Charging

Both cameras use the same rechargeable batteries (Arlo Pro 2 has a slightly improved version), so charging is compatible. You can use the same charging dock or micro-USB cable for both models. Battery life averages 3–6 months depending on usage, with Pro 2 often lasting a bit longer due to better power management.

Tip: Rotate batteries. If you have spare batteries, swap them between cameras to keep your system running while charging. Label batteries with the camera they belong to (e.g., “Front Pro 2”) to avoid confusion.

Motion Detection and Alerts

This is where the Pro 2 shines. Its improved PIR sensors and optional AI-powered person detection (with Arlo Smart) reduce false alarms from animals or moving foliage. The older Pro uses basic motion detection, which can be more prone to false triggers.

In a mixed system:

• You can set different motion zones for each camera (e.g., ignore the sidewalk for your front camera but alert on the porch).
• Pro 2 cameras can be set to “person-only” alerts (with subscription), while Pro cameras trigger on any motion.
• You’ll get alerts for both, but the Pro 2’s are more precise.

One user reported: “My old Pro kept alerting me to raccoons in the yard. My new Pro 2 ignores them and only alerts when a person walks by. It’s a game-changer.”

Night Vision and Spotlight

Both have infrared night vision, but the Pro 2’s is brighter and clearer. The built-in spotlight on Pro 2 models adds color night vision and acts as a deterrent. If you mix cameras, only the Pro 2s will have color night vision when the spotlight activates.

Tip: Place Pro 2s in high-risk areas (front door, back porch) and Pros in low-traffic zones (side yard, garage interior) to maximize the benefits of the spotlight.

Limitations and Trade-Offs of a Mixed Arlo System

Feature Inconsistencies

The biggest trade-off is feature disparity. You’ll have a system where some cameras have spotlights, AI detection, and louder sirens, while others don’t. This isn’t a dealbreaker, but it means you can’t apply the same settings across all cameras.

For example:

• You can’t enable “color night vision” on a Pro camera—only Pro 2s with spotlights.
• Person detection (via Arlo Smart) won’t work on Pro cameras.
• The Pro 2’s siren is 100 dB; the Pro’s is around 85 dB.

So while the system is unified in the app, the user experience isn’t perfectly uniform. You’ll need to manage expectations and settings accordingly.

Hub Compatibility and Upgrades

If you’re using an older base station (VMB3000/3500) with Arlo Pro cameras and want to add Pro 2s, you’re out of luck—unless you upgrade the hub. The Pro 2 requires a SmartHub (VMB4000/4500) to unlock its full features. Without it, you can still connect the Pro 2, but:

• No spotlight control
• No enhanced motion detection
• No integration with newer Arlo accessories (like doorbells or lights)

So if you plan to add Pro 2s, consider upgrading your hub. It’s a $50–$100 investment, but it future-proofs your system.

App Clutter and Management

With mixed cameras, your Arlo app can feel cluttered. You’ll see different icons, settings, and features depending on the model. It’s not overwhelming, but it takes a bit more attention to manage.

Tip: Use the “Groups” feature in the Arlo app to organize cameras. For example:

• Group 1: “Front Area” (Pro 2 + Pro)
• Group 2: “Backyard” (Pro)
• Group 3: “Garage” (Pro 2)

This way, you can view and manage related cameras together, even if they’re different models.

Data Table: Arlo Pro vs. Arlo Pro 2 Comparison

Feature	Arlo Pro	Arlo Pro 2
Resolution	720p HD	1080p HD
Field of View	130°	130°
Night Vision	Infrared (black & white)	Infrared + Color (with spotlight)
Spotlight	No	Yes (on select models)
Siren	85 dB	100 dB
Motion Detection	Basic PIR	Advanced PIR + AI (with subscription)
Two-Way Audio	Yes	Yes
Battery Life	3–6 months	3–6 months (slightly longer)
Weather Resistance	IP65	IP65
Hub Compatibility	VMB3000/3500 or VMB4000/4500	VMB4000/4500 (required for full features)
App Features	Standard motion alerts	Custom zones, person detection, spotlight control

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

So, can you use Arlo Pro cameras with Arlo Pro 2? Absolutely—and it’s a smart move for many users. The ability to mix and match models gives you flexibility, saves money, and lets you upgrade your system incrementally. You don’t have to toss out working hardware just because a newer model exists.

But like any hybrid system, there are trade-offs. You’ll have varying video quality, different feature sets, and slightly more complex management. However, for most homeowners, these are manageable. The key is intentional placement: use your Pro 2s in high-priority areas (front door, back porch, garage) where resolution, spotlight, and AI detection matter most. Use your older Pro cameras in secondary zones (side yard, interior rooms) where 720p is sufficient.

Think of it like building a security team: you don’t need a superhero in every role. Some guards (Pro 2s) have night vision, a loud voice, and a flashlight. Others (Pros) are reliable, affordable, and get the job done. Together, they create a layered, effective system.

And don’t forget the hub. If you’re serious about mixing models, make sure you have a SmartHub (VMB4000/4500). It’s the foundation of a future-proof setup. Without it, you’ll miss out on the Pro 2’s best features.

At the end of the day, Arlo’s ecosystem is designed for this kind of flexibility. Whether you’re expanding your existing system or slowly upgrading over time, combining Arlo Pro and Pro 2 cameras is not only possible—it’s practical. Just go in with your eyes open, label your gear, and use the app’s tools to stay organized. Your home, and your wallet, will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you use Arlo Pro cameras with Arlo Pro 2 systems?

Yes, Arlo Pro cameras are compatible with Arlo Pro 2 base stations and systems, allowing you to mix and match both models seamlessly. This flexibility lets you expand your existing setup without replacing older Arlo Pro cameras.

Do Arlo Pro 2 features work with older Arlo Pro cameras?

While Arlo Pro cameras can connect to an Arlo Pro 2 system, they won’t support Pro 2-specific features like 1080p resolution or advanced motion detection. Older cameras operate with their original capabilities within the Pro 2 ecosystem.

Is there a difference in performance when using Arlo Pro with Arlo Pro 2?

Performance depends on the camera model: Arlo Pro 2 offers higher resolution (1080p) and enhanced motion tracking, while Arlo Pro (720p) delivers reliable but lower-quality video. Both work on the same network but retain their individual specs.

Can I integrate Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2 into the same app?

Yes, both camera models are managed through the Arlo app, letting you view and control them from a single interface. The app automatically recognizes each camera’s capabilities for unified monitoring.

Do I need a new base station to use Arlo Pro with Arlo Pro 2?

No, Arlo Pro cameras can connect to an Arlo Pro 2 base station (and vice versa), eliminating the need for additional hardware. This backward compatibility simplifies system upgrades.

Will firmware updates affect mixing Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2?

Firmware updates are typically applied per camera model, ensuring compatibility across both devices. However, always verify updates don’t alter feature availability before installing them on mixed systems.