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

Yes, you can use regular Arlo cameras with Arlo Pro systems, as both are compatible through the same Arlo app and base station, allowing seamless integration. This flexibility lets you mix and match camera models to suit your security needs without replacing existing equipment. Just ensure firmware is updated for optimal performance.

Key Takeaways

• Mix cameras freely: Regular Arlo and Arlo Pro cameras work together seamlessly.
• Same hub required: Use an Arlo Pro hub for unified system control.
• Check compatibility: Verify firmware updates to ensure cross-camera support.
• Unified app access: Manage all cameras via the Arlo app, regardless of model.
• Feature limitations apply: Advanced Pro features won’t extend to regular Arlo cameras.
• Optimal placement matters: Position mixed cameras strategically for full coverage.

Can You Use Regular Arlo Cameras With Arlo Pro? Let’s Find Out

Imagine this: you’ve invested in a few regular Arlo cameras to keep an eye on your front porch and backyard. A few months later, you’re ready to upgrade to the Arlo Pro series for better night vision, two-way audio, and a more robust battery life. You’re excited—until you start wondering: *Can I mix these systems? Can I use regular Arlo cameras with Arlo Pro?*

If you’ve asked yourself that question, you’re not alone. Many homeowners and renters who start small with Arlo’s entry-level cameras eventually want to expand or upgrade without starting over. The good news? Arlo’s ecosystem is designed with flexibility in mind. But like any tech setup, there are nuances—some smooth, some tricky. This guide walks you through everything you need to know about integrating regular Arlo cameras with Arlo Pro devices. Whether you’re expanding your security setup, replacing old units, or just curious about compatibility, we’ve got you covered.

Understanding the Arlo Ecosystem: What’s the Difference?

Regular Arlo vs. Arlo Pro: Key Features Compared

Before we dive into compatibility, it’s important to understand what separates regular Arlo cameras (like Arlo Wire-Free, Arlo Essential, or Arlo HD) from the Arlo Pro line (including Arlo Pro 2, Pro 3, Pro 4, and Pro 5). While they share the same brand and app, the differences go beyond price tags.

• Video Quality: Regular Arlo models typically offer 720p or 1080p HD. Arlo Pro cameras start at 2K resolution (Pro 3 and up), with Pro 4 and Pro 5 offering 4K with HDR for sharper, more detailed footage.
• Night Vision: Regular Arlo uses standard infrared night vision. Arlo Pro includes color night vision (via spotlight) and enhanced IR, making it easier to identify people or animals after dark.
• Two-Way Audio: Most Arlo Pro models have built-in two-way audio, while older regular Arlo models may lack this or offer it with lower quality.
• Battery Life: Arlo Pro batteries generally last longer (3–6 months vs. 2–4 months on regular models), thanks to more efficient processors and power-saving tech.
• Smart Alerts: Arlo Pro supports AI-powered alerts (like person, vehicle, or animal detection), while regular Arlo may only offer basic motion detection.

Base Stations and Hubs: The Hidden Connector

Here’s a key point: Arlo cameras don’t connect directly to Wi-Fi like most smart home devices. Instead, they communicate with a base station (also called a hub)—a small device that links your cameras to the internet and your Arlo app.

The base station is where compatibility gets interesting. Regular Arlo cameras (like Arlo HD or Arlo Wire-Free) usually work with the Arlo SmartHub or Arlo Base Station (VMB4000 or VMB4500). Arlo Pro cameras, especially Pro 2 and later, are designed for the same hubs. That means, in most cases, you can mix and match—as long as you’re using a compatible base station.

Pro Tip: If you’re using the original Arlo base station (VMB3000) with regular Arlo cameras, it may not support Arlo Pro models. Upgrading to a VMB4000 or VMB4500 (or newer SmartHub) is often necessary for full compatibility.

Compatibility Breakdown: Can Regular Arlo Cameras Work with Arlo Pro?

Same App, Same Account, Same Ecosystem

Yes—you can use regular Arlo cameras with Arlo Pro in the same system. They all run on the Arlo app, which acts as a central dashboard for every camera you own. Whether it’s an older Arlo HD or a brand-new Arlo Pro 5, they’ll appear side by side in your app, with unified controls for viewing, recording, and receiving alerts.

This means you can:

• View live feeds from both camera types on the same screen.
• Set up custom activity zones that apply to all cameras.
• Use the same Arlo Smart subscription for cloud recording (more on that later).
• Receive alerts from any camera in the system, regardless of model.

For example, I once had a setup with two Arlo HD cameras (front and back doors) and an Arlo Pro 3 (side yard). The app treated them as one seamless system. I could swipe between feeds, check recordings, and even create a “Home” mode that armed all three at once. The only difference? The Pro 3 gave me clearer night vision and better audio when I talked to delivery drivers.

Base Station Compatibility: The Make-or-Break Factor

While the app unifies your system, the base station is the real gatekeeper. Not all base stations support every camera model. Here’s the breakdown:

• VMB4000/VMB4500 (Arlo Base Station): Supports Arlo HD, Arlo Wire-Free, Arlo Pro 2, Pro 3, Pro 4, and Pro 5. This is your best bet for mixing regular and Pro cameras.
• Arlo SmartHub (VMB5000): Designed for newer models (Pro 3, Pro 4, Pro 5, Ultra, Essential) but also supports older Pro and regular Arlo cameras via firmware updates.
• VMB3000 (Original Arlo Base Station): Limited to older regular Arlo models. Does not support Arlo Pro 2 or later.

What this means: If you’re using a VMB3000, you’ll need to upgrade your base station to add Arlo Pro cameras. But if you already have a VMB4000 or VMB5000, you’re golden—just add your new Arlo Pro and sync it through the app.

Real-life scenario: A friend of mine tried to add an Arlo Pro 4 to her VMB3000 system. The app showed “camera not supported” during setup. After upgrading to a VMB4500, the Pro 4 paired instantly—and her old Arlo HD cameras stayed connected without a hitch.

Setting Up a Mixed Arlo System: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Check Your Base Station

Before buying or adding new cameras, verify your base station model. You can find this in the Arlo app under Settings > My Devices > Base Station. If it’s a VMB3000, plan to upgrade. For VMB4000/4500 or VMB5000, you’re ready to mix.

Step 2: Add Arlo Pro to Your Existing System

Here’s how to add an Arlo Pro camera to a system that already has regular Arlo cameras:

1. Open the Arlo app and tap the + icon.
2. Select Add Device and choose your Arlo Pro model.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to scan the camera’s QR code.
4. The app will guide you to sync the camera with your base station (via audio tone or button press).
5. Name your camera (e.g., “Backyard Pro 4”) and assign it to a room or zone.

Once added, the new Arlo Pro will appear alongside your regular Arlo cameras in the app. No need to reconfigure your existing cameras—they’ll keep working as usual.

Step 3: Sync Settings Across Cameras (Optional)

While each camera operates independently, you can create a more unified experience:

• Activity Zones: Set up motion detection zones for both regular and Pro cameras. For example, exclude trees or busy streets from triggering alerts.
• Smart Alerts: Enable person/vehicle detection on Arlo Pro cameras. Regular Arlo models may only support basic motion alerts unless you use a third-party service (like IFTTT).
• Recording Rules: Use the same cloud or local storage plan for all cameras. We’ll cover storage options below.

Pro Tip: Use the “Group View” feature in the Arlo app to monitor multiple cameras at once. I set up a “Perimeter” group with my front door (regular Arlo), side yard (Pro 3), and backyard (Pro 4). It’s perfect for a quick security check.

Storage and Subscription: Do You Need Separate Plans?

Cloud vs. Local Storage: What Works for Mixed Systems?

Arlo offers two storage options:

• Cloud Storage (Arlo Smart): Paid subscription that saves recordings to the cloud. Offers AI detection, 30-day video history, and emergency response features.
• Local Storage (USB/SD Card): Free option. Records footage directly to a USB drive (for base stations) or microSD card (for some Pro models). No AI features.

Here’s the good news: you don’t need separate subscriptions. A single Arlo Smart plan covers all cameras on your account—regular and Pro alike. For example, the $2.99/month plan supports one camera, but the $12.99/month plan covers up to 10 cameras. Whether they’re old or new, they’re all included.

Maximizing Your Subscription: Tips for Mixed Cameras

Since Arlo Pro cameras offer better AI detection, here’s how to get the most value:

• Prioritize Smart Alerts on Pro Cameras: Use person/vehicle detection on Arlo Pro units (where it matters most—like driveways or entry points). Use basic motion alerts on regular Arlo cameras in low-traffic areas.
• Use Local Storage for Regular Arlo: If you’re on a budget, store regular Arlo footage locally and use cloud storage only for Arlo Pro. This reduces subscription costs while keeping high-priority cameras in the cloud.
• Enable “Always Record” on Pro Cameras: Arlo Pro models can record continuously (24/7) with a local storage plan. Regular Arlo cameras only record on motion unless you use third-party tools.

Example: I use local storage (USB drive) for my regular Arlo cameras (front door, garage) and cloud storage for my Arlo Pro 4 (backyard). This way, I get detailed AI alerts for the area I care about most, without paying for cloud on every camera.

Limitations and Workarounds: What You Should Know

Feature Gaps: Where Regular Arlo Falls Short

While you can mix cameras, there are trade-offs. Regular Arlo cameras lack some features that Arlo Pro owners might expect:

• No Color Night Vision: Regular Arlo uses IR-only night vision. If you want color footage at night, you’ll need to add a spotlight or upgrade.
• Lower Audio Quality: Two-way audio on older Arlo models can be muffled or delayed.
• No AI Detection: Without Arlo Smart, regular Arlo only alerts you to motion—not specific objects.
• Battery Life: Regular Arlo batteries drain faster, especially in extreme temperatures.

Workaround: Use regular Arlo cameras for low-priority areas (like a shed or side gate) and reserve Arlo Pro for high-traffic zones (front door, backyard).

Firmware and App Updates: Stay in Sync

Arlo occasionally releases firmware updates that add features or fix bugs. However, older regular Arlo cameras may stop receiving updates after a few years. This can cause:

• App compatibility issues (e.g., new features not appearing).
• Security vulnerabilities if the camera isn’t patched.

Solution: Check your camera’s firmware regularly (Arlo app > Device Settings > Firmware Update). If a camera no longer receives updates, consider replacing it—especially if it’s critical to your security.

Real-World Examples: How People Use Mixed Arlo Systems

Case Study 1: The Gradual Upgrade

Sarah, a homeowner in Austin, started with three regular Arlo HD cameras in 2018. By 2022, she upgraded her front door camera to an Arlo Pro 4. She kept the other two HD cameras for the backyard and garage. Her system now includes:

• Arlo Pro 4 (front door): 4K, color night vision, two-way audio.
• Arlo HD (backyard): 1080p, IR night vision.
• Arlo HD (garage): 720p, motion-only alerts.

She uses local storage for the HD cameras and cloud storage for the Pro 4. “I get the best of both worlds,” she says. “The Pro 4 handles the important stuff, and the old cameras still work fine for less critical areas.”

Case Study 2: The Renter’s Setup

James, a renter in Chicago, used two Arlo Essential (regular) cameras for his apartment’s entry and balcony. When his landlord installed an Arlo Pro 3 for the building’s front gate, James added it to his own Arlo account (with permission). Now, he monitors both his personal and shared cameras in one app—no extra cost.

“It’s like having a whole building security system,” he says. “I can see who’s at the gate and who’s at my door, all in one place.”

Data Table: Mixed System Performance Summary

Camera Type	Max Resolution	Night Vision	Two-Way Audio	Smart Alerts	Battery Life	Base Station Support
Arlo HD (Regular)	1080p	IR Only	Yes (basic)	Motion Only	2–4 months	VMB4000/4500, VMB5000
Arlo Pro 2	1080p	IR + Color (spotlight)	Yes	With Arlo Smart	3–6 months	VMB4000/4500, VMB5000
Arlo Pro 3	2K	IR + Color (spotlight)	Yes (enhanced)	With Arlo Smart	3–6 months	VMB4000/4500, VMB5000
Arlo Pro 4	4K	IR + Color (spotlight)	Yes (enhanced)	With Arlo Smart	3–6 months	VMB5000, VMB4000/4500 (with firmware)

Note: All models work together on compatible base stations and the Arlo app.

So, can you use regular Arlo cameras with Arlo Pro? Absolutely. The Arlo ecosystem is built for flexibility, letting you mix older and newer models without starting from scratch. The key is ensuring your base station supports both—and that you’re okay with the feature gaps (like lower resolution or basic alerts on older cameras).

Think of it like a kitchen upgrade: you don’t need to replace every appliance at once. Start with the essentials (like a better oven—your Arlo Pro) and keep the working ones (your regular Arlo cameras) until it’s time to retire them. The result? A smart, scalable security system that grows with your needs.

Just remember: check your base station, plan your storage, and use each camera where it shines. Whether you’re a homeowner, renter, or tech newbie, mixing Arlo systems is not only possible—it’s a smart way to maximize your investment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you use regular Arlo cameras with Arlo Pro systems?

Yes, regular Arlo cameras (like Arlo Wire-Free) can generally work with Arlo Pro systems, but compatibility depends on the base station or hub. Most Arlo cameras connect to the same Arlo SmartHub or base station, allowing mixed setups.

Do Arlo Pro base stations support older Arlo cameras?

Yes, Arlo Pro base stations (such as the VMB4000 or VMB5000) are backward compatible with older Arlo cameras. This lets you integrate regular Arlo cameras into your Arlo Pro ecosystem without replacing existing hardware.

Are there any limitations when mixing regular Arlo and Arlo Pro cameras?

While most features work, advanced functionalities like 2K/4K streaming or color night vision may be limited to Arlo Pro models. Regular Arlo cameras will operate at their native resolution and capabilities within the shared system.

Can you use regular Arlo cameras with Arlo Pro for a single app experience?

Yes, all cameras will appear in the Arlo app, but features like AI detection or activity zones may vary by model. The app unifies controls, though Pro-specific features won’t apply to regular cameras.

Is a firmware update required to mix regular Arlo and Arlo Pro cameras?

Sometimes—Arlo recommends updating all devices to the latest firmware for optimal performance. Check the app for prompts to ensure seamless integration between older and newer cameras.

Will Arlo Pro subscriptions work with regular Arlo cameras?

Yes, Arlo Secure subscriptions cover all cameras on your account, regardless of model. However, cloud storage and smart alerts for regular Arlo cameras depend on their individual capabilities.