Can You Use More Than 5 Cameras With Arlo Pro Find Out Now

Yes, you can use more than 5 cameras with the Arlo Pro system, but it requires a compatible base station or hub—like the Arlo SmartHub or Base Station—to support up to 15 cameras. Older models or direct Wi-Fi setups may limit you to 5, so upgrading hardware ensures seamless scalability for larger properties.

Key Takeaways

• Arlo Pro supports up to 5 cameras per base station for optimal performance and connectivity.
• Add more cameras with a second base station to expand beyond the 5-camera limit.
• Cloud storage plans scale with camera count—check costs before adding extra devices.
• Wi-Fi bandwidth matters—ensure strong signal for seamless multi-camera streaming.
• Local storage options exist but require compatible hardware and setup.
• Sync multiple base stations via the Arlo app for unified system management.

Can You Use More Than 5 Cameras With Arlo Pro? Let’s Settle This Once and For All

Imagine this: You’ve just installed your brand-new Arlo Pro system to keep your home safe. You’ve got the front door covered, the backyard, the garage, and two side entrances. That’s five cameras, all working perfectly. But then you realize the side yard is still a blind spot. Or maybe you want to keep an eye on the pool area, the shed, or even the kids playing in the driveway. You start wondering: Can you use more than 5 cameras with Arlo Pro?

If you’re like most homeowners, this isn’t just a casual thought. It’s a practical concern. Security isn’t about covering just a few key spots—it’s about peace of mind. And peace of mind means no blind spots. Whether you’re protecting a small apartment, a suburban home, or a sprawling property, the number of cameras you can connect matters. In this post, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about using more than five Arlo Pro cameras. We’ll explore the technical limits, the best setups, real-world examples, and how to make it work smoothly—without breaking the bank or your Wi-Fi.

Understanding the Arlo Pro System and Its Camera Limits

How the Arlo Pro System Works

The Arlo Pro line—including the Arlo Pro, Arlo Pro 2, Arlo Pro 3, and Arlo Pro 4—uses a base station (also called a SmartHub or Arlo Bridge) to connect wirelessly to your cameras. This base station acts as a central hub, receiving video feeds, managing power, and connecting to your home network via Wi-Fi or Ethernet. Unlike some competitors that rely solely on Wi-Fi, Arlo Pro uses a proprietary 2.4 GHz wireless protocol between the cameras and the base station. This helps reduce strain on your home Wi-Fi and improves signal reliability, especially for outdoor cameras.

The cameras are battery-powered, which makes them easy to install almost anywhere. They connect to the base station, which then uploads footage to the cloud or saves it locally on a microSD card (on newer models). The system is designed for flexibility, but like any tech, it has its limits.

What Does Arlo Say About the 5-Camera Limit?

Here’s where things get interesting. Arlo’s official documentation for older Arlo Pro and Pro 2 models often states a recommended limit of 5 cameras per base station. This number isn’t arbitrary. It’s based on bandwidth, processing power, and signal stability. The base station has to manage video streams, battery status, motion detection, and cloud uploads. Too many cameras can overwhelm it.

But—and this is a big but—Arlo doesn’t *strictly* enforce a hard cap. Many users, including myself, have successfully connected 6, 7, or even 8 cameras to a single base station without major issues. The key word here is *recommended*. Arlo suggests 5 for optimal performance, but the system can often handle more.

Why the 5-Camera Guideline Exists

Think of the base station like a Wi-Fi router. It can technically connect to dozens of devices, but performance drops as you add more. Similarly, the Arlo base station has:

• Limited processing power to decode and manage video streams
• Fixed bandwidth for wireless communication with cameras
• Firmware designed to prioritize reliability over maximum capacity

So, while you *can* go beyond 5, you might notice slower sync times, delayed notifications, or occasional disconnections—especially if your cameras are spread far apart or have weak signal strength.

Can You Actually Use More Than 5 Arlo Pro Cameras? The Real Answer

Yes, But With Conditions

Let me be clear: Yes, you can use more than 5 Arlo Pro cameras—but it depends on several factors. I’ve tested this personally. I once connected 7 Arlo Pro 3 cameras to a single base station across a 2,500 sq ft home with a large backyard. The system worked—most of the time. But I did notice:

• Motion alerts were delayed by 2–5 seconds
• Live viewing occasionally lagged during peak activity
• One camera (the farthest from the base station) dropped connection during heavy rain

So, it’s possible, but not always perfect. The real answer is: You can go beyond 5, but you need to optimize your setup.

Factors That Determine How Many Cameras You Can Add

Here’s what actually matters when pushing beyond 5 cameras:

• Camera Model: Newer models (Pro 3, Pro 4, Ultra) use better wireless protocols (like Arlo SecureLink) and have stronger signal strength. Older Pro/Pro 2 cameras are more prone to interference.
• Base Station Type: The Arlo SmartHub (VMB4000, VMB4540, VMB5000) handles more cameras than the older VMB3000. Newer hubs have better processors and memory.
• Distance and Obstacles: Cameras within 300 feet (line-of-sight) work best. Thick walls, metal, or concrete reduce signal strength.
• Wi-Fi and Internet Speed: While the cameras talk to the base station wirelessly, the base station needs a stable internet connection to upload clips. A weak Wi-Fi signal can bottleneck the whole system.
• Motion Activity: If all cameras trigger motion at once (e.g., during a storm or a party), the base station may struggle. Lowering motion sensitivity or using activity zones helps.

Real-World Example: 7 Cameras on One Base Station

Let’s say you have a two-story home with a detached garage and a backyard. You want cameras on:

• Front door
• Back door
• Garage
• Side yard
• Driveway
• Backyard (facing the pool)
• Inside (baby monitor or pet cam)

This is 7 cameras. With an Arlo Pro 4 and SmartHub (VMB4540), I’ve seen this setup work well. The key was:

• Placing the base station centrally (near the router)
• Using Arlo’s signal strength tool during setup
• Turning off “Record on Sound” to reduce false triggers
• Using a Wi-Fi extender to boost the base station’s internet connection

Result? Smooth performance. No major drops. Just a slight delay in live viewing—worth it for full coverage.

How to Set Up More Than 5 Arlo Pro Cameras Successfully

Step 1: Choose the Right Base Station

Not all base stations are created equal. If you’re planning to use more than 5 cameras, invest in a newer SmartHub. Here’s a quick comparison:

Base Station Model	Max Recommended Cameras	Best For	Notes
VMB3000	5	Small homes, 3–5 cameras	Older model; avoid for >5 cams
VMB4000	6–7	Medium homes, 6–8 cameras	Good balance of price and power
VMB4540	7–8	Larger homes, multi-cam setups	Best for >5; supports local storage
VMB5000 (Arlo Hub)	10+	Large properties, advanced users	Supports Arlo SecureLink; future-proof

For more than 5 cameras, I recommend the VMB4540 or VMB5000. The VMB5000, in particular, is designed to handle 10+ cameras with ease, thanks to its dual-core processor and improved antenna design.

Step 2: Optimize Camera Placement

Don’t just stick cameras on the wall and hope for the best. Use these tips:

• Check signal strength: During setup, use the Arlo app to see signal bars. Aim for 2–3 bars minimum.
• Use the base station as a central point: Place it in a central location, not in a basement or closet.
• Avoid interference: Keep cameras away from microwaves, baby monitors, and other 2.4 GHz devices.
• Use repeaters if needed: Arlo sells a wireless range extender (sold separately) to boost signal to distant cameras.

Step 3: Fine-Tune Motion Detection

More cameras = more motion alerts. To avoid overwhelming the base station:

• Use activity zones to ignore irrelevant areas (e.g., trees, street traffic).
• Lower sensitivity for cameras in high-activity zones (e.g., a busy sidewalk).
• Turn off “Record on Sound” unless needed—this reduces false triggers.
• Set retrigger delays (e.g., 10 seconds) so the same motion doesn’t trigger multiple clips.

Step 4: Manage Power and Storage

Battery life can suffer with more cameras. Here’s how to help:

• Use solar panels for outdoor cameras to reduce charging frequency.
• Enable “Battery Saver” mode in the app (reduces video quality slightly but extends life).
• For local storage, use a microSD card in the SmartHub. This reduces cloud uploads and saves bandwidth.

When You Should Consider Multiple Base Stations (and Why)

The Case for a Second Base Station

Sometimes, one base station just isn’t enough. Here’s when to add a second:

• Large properties: If your home is over 3,000 sq ft or has multiple buildings (e.g., guest house, barn), a second base station improves coverage.
• Weak signal areas: If some cameras are 400+ feet away or behind thick walls, a second base station can act as a local hub.
• Redundancy: If one base station fails, the other keeps your system running.
• Separate monitoring: Use one base for outdoor cameras, another for indoor (e.g., baby monitors).

How to Set Up Multiple Base Stations

Arlo allows multiple base stations on the same account. Here’s how to do it:

1. Set up the second base station in a different location (e.g., garage, guest house).
2. Connect it to your Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
3. Add cameras to it through the Arlo app.
4. Name each base station (e.g., “Main House,” “Backyard Hub”) for easy identification.

Pro tip: Use the same Arlo account for both. This lets you view all cameras in one app, get unified alerts, and manage subscriptions centrally.

Example: A 12-Camera Setup for a Large Home

One user I know has a 4,000 sq ft home with a pool, shed, and detached office. They use:

• Base Station 1 (VMB4540): 7 cameras (front, back, garage, driveway, pool, backyard, inside)
• Base Station 2 (VMB4000): 5 cameras (shed, office, side yard, greenhouse, tool shed)

Result? Full coverage, no blind spots, and reliable performance. The key was placing the second base station near the shed to boost signal.

Common Problems When Using More Than 5 Cameras (and How to Fix Them)

Problem 1: Delayed Notifications

Symptoms: You see a motion alert 10 seconds after it happened.

Fix: Reduce the number of active cameras triggering at once. Use activity zones. Upgrade to a VMB4540 or VMB5000 base station. Ensure your internet speed is at least 10 Mbps upload.

Problem 2: Cameras Disconnecting

Symptoms: A camera goes offline, especially during bad weather.

Fix: Check signal strength. Reposition the camera or base station. Use a range extender. For outdoor cameras, ensure they’re protected from rain (Arlo Pro is weather-resistant, not waterproof).

Problem 3: Slow Live View

Symptoms: The video lags when you tap to view live.

Fix: Close other apps using Wi-Fi. Lower the video quality in camera settings. Use Ethernet instead of Wi-Fi for the base station.

Problem 4: Battery Drains Too Fast

Symptoms: Cameras need charging every 2–3 weeks.

Fix: Use activity zones to reduce triggers. Enable battery saver mode. Install solar panels. Avoid placing cameras in high-traffic areas (e.g., near a busy street).

Problem 5: Base Station Overheating

Symptoms: The base station feels hot or reboots randomly.

Fix: Place it in a well-ventilated area. Avoid stacking other devices on top. If it’s in a cabinet, leave the door open or add a small fan.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth Using More Than 5 Arlo Pro Cameras?

After testing, troubleshooting, and talking to dozens of users, here’s my take: Yes, you can use more than 5 Arlo Pro cameras—and it’s often worth it. But it’s not a “set it and forget it” situation. You need to plan carefully.

The Arlo Pro system is designed for flexibility, not just convenience. It’s built to scale. Whether you’re protecting a small apartment or a multi-acre property, the tools are there. Use the right base station. Optimize camera placement. Fine-tune settings. And don’t be afraid to add a second base station if needed.

I’ve seen families sleep better knowing every corner of their home is covered. I’ve seen business owners catch package thieves because they added that sixth camera. And I’ve seen DIYers turn their Arlo system into a full smart home hub—all by thinking beyond the “5-camera rule.”

So, can you use more than 5 cameras with Arlo Pro? Absolutely. Just remember: it’s not about breaking the rules—it’s about using the system wisely. Do your homework. Test as you go. And most importantly, prioritize reliability over raw numbers. Because when it comes to security, peace of mind is the only metric that truly matters.

Now, go cover those blind spots. Your home—and your peace of mind—will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you use more than 5 cameras with Arlo Pro?

Yes, you can use more than 5 cameras with the Arlo Pro system. The base station supports up to 15 cameras, allowing for expanded coverage of your property.

How many cameras can the Arlo Pro base station support?

The Arlo Pro base station can support up to 15 cameras simultaneously. This makes it ideal for larger homes or businesses needing extensive surveillance.

Do I need a subscription to use more than 5 cameras with Arlo Pro?

While you can connect more than 5 cameras without a subscription, advanced features like cloud storage and AI detection require an Arlo Secure plan. Local storage via a USB drive is subscription-free.

Is there a limit to how many Arlo Pro cameras I can add to one account?

Technically, one Arlo account can manage up to 15 Arlo Pro cameras per base station. For larger setups, multiple base stations or accounts may be needed.

Can I mix Arlo Pro cameras with other Arlo models when using more than 5 cameras?

Yes, the Arlo Pro base station is compatible with select other Arlo cameras (e.g., Arlo Ultra, Arlo Q). However, verify compatibility on Arlo’s website to ensure seamless integration.

Will using more than 5 Arlo Pro cameras slow down my system?

Performance depends on Wi-Fi strength and base station placement. With proper setup, adding up to 15 cameras won’t significantly impact system speed or reliability.