Do 1 Arlo Cameras Need a Base Station Find Out Here

No, a single Arlo camera does not always need a base station—many newer models, like the Arlo Pro 3 and Arlo Ultra, can connect directly to Wi-Fi for standalone use. However, using a base station enhances reliability, extends battery life, and unlocks advanced features like local storage and improved connectivity in larger setups.

Key Takeaways

• Single Arlo cameras often work without a base station using Wi-Fi.
• Check model specifications—some require a base for full features.
• Base stations enhance battery life and connectivity reliability.
• No hub needed for basic live view and motion alerts.
• Sync modules replace base stations in newer Arlo setups.
• Local storage requires a base station or sync module.
• Wi-Fi strength matters more for standalone camera performance.

Do 1 Arlo Cameras Need a Base Station? Let’s Break It Down

Imagine this: You just moved into a new home. It’s cozy, quiet, and everything feels right—except for that nagging feeling in the back of your mind. What if someone tries to break in? You’ve heard great things about Arlo cameras, especially their sleek design, smart features, and reliable performance. But as you start browsing, you see mentions of a “base station” and wonder: Do 1 Arlo cameras need a base station?

You’re not alone. Many first-time Arlo users—especially those considering just one camera—get stuck on this question. Maybe you’re thinking of placing a single outdoor camera to watch your front porch, or an indoor unit to keep an eye on your pets while you’re at work. You don’t want to overcomplicate things. You just want peace of mind—without buying extra hardware you might not need.

So let’s clear the air. Whether you’re tech-savvy or just dipping your toes into the world of smart home security, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Arlo cameras and base stations. We’ll explore which models require one, which don’t, how the base station actually works, and whether skipping it is a smart move for your setup. No fluff, no sales pitch—just honest, practical advice to help you make the best choice for your home.

Understanding Arlo Camera Models: Which Ones Need a Base Station?

Not all Arlo cameras are created equal. And when it comes to needing a base station, the answer depends entirely on which model you choose. Arlo offers several product lines, and they fall into two main categories: base station-dependent and standalone (Wi-Fi direct) models.

Base Station-Dependent Models (Require a Hub)

These are the original Arlo systems, designed for multi-camera setups. They use a central base station (also called a hub) to connect wirelessly to your cameras and then link to your home Wi-Fi router. Think of the base station as the “brain” of your system. It handles video processing, local storage (if you have an Arlo SmartHub or Arlo Base Station with local storage), and acts as a bridge between your cameras and the cloud.

• Arlo Pro series (Pro 2, Pro 3, Pro 4, Pro 5S): These are high-end, weather-resistant cameras with advanced features like 2K HDR video, color night vision, and rechargeable batteries. All require a base station.
• Arlo Ultra series: The premium line with 4K video, spotlight, and advanced AI detection. Also requires a base station.
• Arlo Essential Wire-Free (older versions): Some early models in this line needed a base station, especially when used in multi-camera setups.

Example: If you buy a single Arlo Pro 4 camera, you’ll still need to purchase the Arlo SmartHub (or Arlo Base Station) separately—or bundle it with a kit. Without the hub, the camera won’t connect to your network.

Standalone Wi-Fi Models (No Base Station Needed)

Arlo has evolved. In recent years, they’ve introduced cameras that connect directly to your home Wi-Fi router—no hub required. These are perfect for single-camera users or those who want a simpler setup.

• Arlo Essential Wire-Free (newer models): These connect directly to your 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi. No base station needed.
• Arlo Essential Indoor Camera: A compact, privacy-focused indoor camera that plugs into a wall outlet and connects via Wi-Fi.
• Arlo Pro 4 Spotlight Camera (with Wi-Fi option): Some versions allow direct Wi-Fi setup, though performance may vary.
• Arlo Go 2 (LTE model): Connects via cellular network, so no Wi-Fi or base station required.

Tip: Always check the product packaging or website description. Look for phrases like “Connects directly to Wi-Fi” or “No hub required.” If it says “Requires Arlo SmartHub,” then you’ll need the base station—even for one camera.

So, to answer the big question: Do 1 Arlo cameras need a base station? It depends on the model. A single Arlo Pro 5S? Yes. A single Arlo Essential Indoor? No.

How the Base Station Works (And Why It Exists)

You might be thinking: Why does Arlo even make a base station? Isn’t Wi-Fi good enough? Great question. The base station isn’t just a box—it’s a strategic design choice that solves real problems, especially for multi-camera systems.

1. Reliable Wireless Connection (Zigbee/Proprietary RF)

Most base station-dependent Arlo cameras (like the Pro and Ultra series) use a proprietary 2.4 GHz RF (radio frequency) protocol—not standard Wi-Fi—to talk to the base station. This is a big deal.

• Wi-Fi can get congested. If you have smart lights, thermostats, tablets, and phones all using the same network, your camera feed might lag or drop.
• The RF connection is more stable and uses less power, which helps extend battery life (especially for wire-free models).
• The base station acts as a dedicated “gateway,” reducing interference and improving range.

Real-world example: Sarah installed two Arlo Pro 3 cameras in her backyard. Her Wi-Fi signal was weak out there. But because the cameras connected to the base station via RF, not Wi-Fi, she got a strong, consistent signal—even 100 feet from the router.

2. Local Video Storage (Optional but Powerful)

One of the biggest advantages of using a base station is local storage. If your internet goes down, cloud storage fails, or you want to avoid monthly fees, local storage is a game-changer.

• The Arlo SmartHub and Arlo Base Station can accept microSD cards (up to 2TB) or USB drives.
• You can store footage locally and access it via the Arlo app—no cloud subscription needed.
• This is ideal for users in rural areas with spotty internet or those who want to avoid recurring costs.

Note: Not all base stations support local storage. The original Arlo Base Station (non-SmartHub) only supports cloud storage. The newer Arlo SmartHub (sold with Pro 4 and later) includes local storage capability.

3. Enhanced Security and Privacy

Using a base station can actually improve your privacy. Since the camera-to-hub connection uses encrypted RF, it’s harder for hackers to intercept video streams compared to a direct Wi-Fi connection (which is more exposed).

Plus, with local storage, your footage never leaves your home network. That’s a big win for privacy-conscious users.

4. Better for Multi-Camera Setups

If you ever plan to add more cameras (say, a second outdoor unit or an indoor one), the base station makes scaling easy. All cameras connect to the same hub, and the app manages them seamlessly. Without a hub, each Wi-Fi camera is a separate entity, which can clutter your network and make management more complex.

Bottom line: The base station isn’t just a “middleman.” It’s a performance booster, a storage solution, and a privacy tool—especially valuable if you value reliability and control.

Can You Use a Single Arlo Camera Without a Base Station?

Yes—but only if you pick the right model. If you’re set on using just one Arlo camera and want to skip the base station, you have several excellent options. Let’s explore them.

Best Standalone Arlo Cameras (No Hub Required)

Here are the top Arlo cameras that work great as single units without a base station:

• Arlo Essential Wire-Free (Wi-Fi model): Connects directly to your 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi. Offers 1080p video, motion detection, two-way audio, and weather resistance. Great for porches, driveways, or backyards.
• Arlo Essential Indoor Camera: Plug-and-play indoor unit with 1080p video, privacy shutter, night vision, and smart alerts. Perfect for monitoring pets, babies, or home offices.
• Arlo Pro 4 Spotlight Camera (Wi-Fi variant): Some retailers sell a version that allows Wi-Fi setup. Offers 2K video, spotlight, color night vision, and rechargeable battery. A premium option for outdoor use.
• Arlo Go 2 (LTE): Uses a SIM card and cellular network. Ideal for remote areas (like cabins, construction sites, or RVs) where Wi-Fi isn’t available.

Tip: When buying, look for “Wi-Fi” or “Direct Wi-Fi” in the title. Avoid bundles that include a SmartHub unless you plan to add more cameras later.

Pros of Going Hub-Free

• Simpler setup: Just plug in or mount, connect to Wi-Fi via the Arlo app, and you’re done.
• Lower upfront cost: No need to buy a base station (which can cost $50–$100).
• Fewer devices on your network: One less box to power and manage.
• Great for renters: No permanent installation or extra hardware to worry about.

Cons to Consider

• No local storage: All footage goes to the cloud (unless you use a third-party NVR, which is rare).
• Wi-Fi dependency: If your internet goes down, you lose live view and cloud storage.
• Shorter battery life (for wire-free models): Wi-Fi uses more power than RF, so cameras may need charging more often.
• Less robust in large homes: Wi-Fi range can be limited, especially through walls.

Example: Mark lives in a small apartment and wanted a camera to watch his dog. He chose the Arlo Essential Indoor. Setup took 5 minutes. He didn’t want to clutter his space with a base station. For his needs, it’s perfect. But if he ever moves to a house with a backyard, he might consider upgrading to a Pro model with a hub.

So, can you use one Arlo camera without a base station? Absolutely—if you pick a Wi-Fi-enabled model. But make sure it fits your lifestyle, internet reliability, and future plans.

Cost Comparison: Base Station vs. No Base Station

Let’s talk money. The cost difference between using a base station and going hub-free can be significant—especially when you’re only buying one camera.

Upfront Costs

Here’s a breakdown of typical prices (as of 2024):

Setup Type	Camera Model	Camera Price	Base Station Price	Total Cost	Local Storage?
With Base Station	Arlo Pro 4	$199	$99 (SmartHub)	$298	Yes
With Base Station (Kit)	Arlo Pro 4 + SmartHub	$249 (bundle)	Included	$249	Yes
No Base Station	Arlo Essential Wire-Free (Wi-Fi)	$129	$0	$129	No
No Base Station	Arlo Essential Indoor	$99	$0	$99	No
No Base Station (LTE)	Arlo Go 2	$249	$0	$249	No (but includes 1-month LTE)

Key takeaways:

• The cheapest single-camera setup? Arlo Essential Indoor at $99.
• Going the base station route adds $50–$100 to your total—unless you buy a bundle.
• Kits (camera + hub) often save you $20–$50 compared to buying separately.
• LTE models (like Arlo Go 2) have higher upfront costs but no Wi-Fi dependency.

Ongoing Costs (Cloud Subscriptions)

Arlo offers free basic cloud storage, but it’s limited:

• Free plan: 7 days of rolling video history (per camera), 30-day trial of AI detection.
• Paid plans: Start at $2.99/month per camera for 30-day history, smart alerts, and e911.

Important: If you use a base station with local storage, you can avoid cloud fees entirely. Just use a microSD card. That’s a big long-term saving—especially if you have multiple cameras.

Example: Lisa bought the Arlo Pro 4 with SmartHub and a 128GB microSD card ($20). She uses local storage and never pays for cloud. Over 3 years, she saves about $108 compared to a cloud-only user.

So while the base station adds upfront cost, it can save money over time—if you value local storage and plan to keep the system long-term.

Future-Proofing: Should You Buy a Base Station Even for One Camera?

Here’s a smart question: What if I start with one camera but want to add more later? That’s where future-proofing comes in.

When to Invest in a Base Station Upfront

Buying a base station now—even for a single camera—makes sense if:

• You live in a large home and want to add outdoor, indoor, or garage cameras later.
• You want local storage to avoid monthly cloud fees.
• You have weak Wi-Fi in certain areas and want the reliability of RF.
• You value privacy and want to keep footage on your network.
• You’re building a long-term smart home security system.

Tip: Buy the Arlo SmartHub (not the older base station) if you go this route. It supports local storage, newer cameras, and firmware updates.

When to Skip the Base Station

You can safely go hub-free if:

• You’re sure you’ll never add more than one or two cameras.
• You have strong, reliable Wi-Fi throughout your home.
• You don’t mind paying for cloud storage long-term.
• You’re renting and want a simple, portable setup.
• You only need indoor monitoring (like for pets or kids).

Real-world story: James bought an Arlo Essential Indoor for his newborn’s room. He didn’t want a base station—just a simple monitor. A year later, he added a second indoor camera for his home office. He still didn’t need a hub. But if he ever moves to a house with a yard, he’ll likely upgrade to a Pro model with a SmartHub.

Smart move: If you’re on the fence, consider buying a kit (camera + SmartHub). It’s often cheaper, and you get flexibility. You can use the hub now or later. And if you never need it? You still got a great deal.

Final Thoughts: Making the Right Choice for Your Home

So, do 1 Arlo cameras need a base station? The answer is: It depends on your camera and your needs.

If you choose a Pro, Ultra, or older Essential model, yes—you’ll need a base station. It’s part of how those cameras work. But if you pick a Wi-Fi-enabled Essential, Indoor, or Go 2, you can skip the hub entirely and enjoy a simpler, more affordable setup.

Think about this:

• For simplicity and low cost: Go hub-free with a Wi-Fi model.
• For reliability, local storage, and future expansion: Invest in a SmartHub—even for one camera.
• For remote or off-grid use: Arlo Go 2 (LTE) is a standout option.

Remember, smart home security isn’t one-size-fits-all. Your choice should match your lifestyle, budget, and long-term goals. Don’t let the base station scare you off—but don’t buy it just because it’s “the Arlo way.”

And here’s a final tip: Always check the model number and specs before buying. Retailers sometimes sell older or bundled versions. A quick look at the product description can save you from an unexpected hub purchase.

At the end of the day, whether you use a base station or not, Arlo cameras are a smart way to protect your home. With the right setup, you’ll get peace of mind—without the hassle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do 1 Arlo cameras need a base station to function?

No, a single Arlo camera does not always require a base station. Many newer models, like the Arlo Pro 5 or Arlo Ultra, can connect directly to your Wi-Fi and operate independently via the Arlo app.

Which Arlo cameras work without a base station?

Most Arlo cameras released after 2020, including the Arlo Pro 4, Arlo Essential, and Arlo Ultra 2, support direct-to-Wi-Fi connectivity. However, older models like the Arlo Pro 2 may still rely on a base station for full functionality.

Is a base station necessary for one Arlo camera’s security features?

No, a base station isn’t required for core security features like motion detection or night vision. These features work with direct Wi-Fi setups, but a base station may enhance local storage or reduce network strain in some cases.

What are the benefits of using a base station with a single Arlo camera?

A base station can provide backup storage, lower latency, and reduce Wi-Fi congestion. While optional for one camera, it’s useful if you plan to expand your system later or want extra reliability.

Can I set up 1 Arlo camera without a base station if I already own one?

Yes, even if you own a base station, you can skip using it for a single Arlo camera. The camera will connect directly to your router, but you can always re-enable the base station for multi-camera setups.

Do Arlo cameras without a base station still support cloud storage?

Yes, single Arlo cameras connected directly to Wi-Fi fully support cloud storage subscriptions. Your footage uploads to the Arlo cloud just like systems using a base station.