Do All Arlo Cameras Work With All Base Stations Find Out Here

Not all Arlo cameras work with every base station—compatibility depends on the specific model and generation. Older base stations may not support newer cameras like the Arlo Pro 4 or Ultra 2, so always check Arlo’s official compatibility list before pairing devices to avoid setup issues.

Key Takeaways

• Not all Arlo cameras work with every base station: Check compatibility before purchasing.
• Older base stations may lack support: Newer cameras often require updated hubs.
• Arlo Pro and Ultra need specific models: Use Arlo SmartHub or VMB base stations.
• Wi-Fi cameras bypass base stations: They connect directly to your router instead.
• Always verify model numbers: Match cameras and base stations using Arlo’s official list.

Do All Arlo Cameras Work With All Base Stations? The Real Answer

Imagine this: You’ve just bought a new Arlo Ultra 2 camera to upgrade your home security. You’re excited, maybe even a little proud of your tech-savvy purchase. But then, when you try to set it up, you realize it won’t connect to your old Arlo base station. Frustrating, right? You’re not alone. This is one of the most common questions Arlo users have—do all Arlo cameras work with all base stations?

The short answer? Not always. And that’s okay! Like any evolving tech brand, Arlo has released multiple generations of cameras and base stations over the years. While many are compatible, not every camera works with every base station. The good news is that understanding the rules makes all the difference. Whether you’re expanding your existing setup, replacing an old device, or starting fresh, knowing which Arlo gear plays nice together saves time, money, and headaches. In this guide, we’ll walk through the ins and outs of Arlo compatibility, using real-world examples, practical tips, and a clear breakdown of what works—and what doesn’t.

Understanding Arlo Cameras and Base Stations: The Basics

What Is an Arlo Base Station?

The Arlo base station is the central hub that connects your Arlo cameras to your home network. Think of it as the “brain” of your security system. It handles Wi-Fi communication, stores footage (if you have local storage), and manages power for wired models. Most Arlo cameras—especially older and mid-range models—rely on a base station to function properly. Without it, many cameras can’t stream, record, or connect to the Arlo app.

For example, if you own an Arlo Pro 3 or Arlo Essential Spotlight, they typically require a base station to operate. The base station also provides features like local video storage (via a USB drive), better signal strength, and improved battery life for wireless cameras by acting as a Wi-Fi extender.

Types of Arlo Cameras and Their Connection Needs

Not all Arlo cameras need a base station. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Cameras that require a base station: Arlo Pro, Arlo Pro 2, Arlo Pro 3, Arlo Ultra, Arlo Ultra 2, Arlo Go (cellular version), and Arlo Essential (some models).
• Cameras that connect directly to Wi-Fi: Arlo Essential Indoor, Arlo Essential Outdoor (2nd gen), Arlo Pro 4, Arlo Pro 5S, and newer Arlo Wire-Free models.

The shift toward direct Wi-Fi connectivity started around 2020. Newer models like the Arlo Pro 4 and Pro 5S skip the base station entirely, connecting straight to your router. This simplifies setup and reduces clutter. But if you already have an older base station, you might wonder: can I still use it with newer cameras?

Why Compatibility Matters

Compatibility isn’t just about plug-and-play. It affects:

• Your ability to mix and match cameras
• Whether you can reuse old gear when upgrading
• Storage options (local vs. cloud)
• Signal reliability, especially in large homes

For instance, my neighbor tried to add an Arlo Pro 4 to his Arlo Pro 2 base station. It didn’t work. The Pro 4 is Wi-Fi-only and doesn’t support the older hub. He ended up buying a new base station (or just using the camera standalone). Knowing the rules upfront could’ve saved him the extra purchase.

Which Arlo Base Stations Are Compatible With Which Cameras?

Arlo Pro and Pro 2 Base Station (Model: VMB4000)

This was the original hub for Arlo Pro and Pro 2 systems. It supports:

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• Arlo Pro (1st gen)
• Arlo Pro 2
• Arlo Go (cellular camera)
• Arlo Essential (1st gen, with adapter)

But it does NOT support:

• Arlo Ultra
• Arlo Ultra 2
• Arlo Pro 3
• Arlo Pro 4 or Pro 5S

This base station uses a proprietary 2.4 GHz wireless protocol. Newer cameras use different tech (like 5 GHz Wi-Fi or improved encryption), so they can’t pair with this older hub. If you’re using a VMB4000, stick to Pro, Pro 2, and Go models.

Arlo Pro 3 and Ultra Base Station (Model: VMB4540)

The VMB4540 is a major upgrade. It supports:

• Arlo Pro 3
• Arlo Ultra
• Arlo Ultra 2
• Arlo Essential (1st gen, with adapter)
• Arlo Go

It does NOT support:

• Arlo Pro 4 or Pro 5S (Wi-Fi-only)
• Arlo Essential Outdoor (2nd gen, Wi-Fi-only)

This base station introduced faster processing, better range, and support for higher-resolution cameras (4K). It’s backward compatible with older Arlo Pro cameras, so if you’re upgrading from a Pro 2 to a Pro 3, you can keep using the VMB4540—great for budget-conscious users.

Arlo Pro 4 and Pro 5S: No Base Station Needed

Starting with the Arlo Pro 4, Arlo shifted to Wi-Fi-only models. These cameras connect directly to your home network via 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz Wi-Fi. They do not require a base station and cannot be used with any Arlo base station.

This means:

• You can’t add a Pro 4 to a VMB4000 or VMB4540
• You can’t use local USB storage with these cameras (unless using Arlo Secure subscription with cloud storage)
• They’re ideal for smaller homes or renters who want a simple setup

That said, if you already have a VMB4540, you can still use it for other cameras (like Pro 3 or Ultra), but the Pro 4 will operate independently.

Arlo Essential (2nd Gen): The Hybrid Option

The 2nd generation of Arlo Essential cameras (Indoor and Outdoor) can work in two ways:

• Connect directly to Wi-Fi (no base station)
• Connect via a VMB4540 base station (for local storage and extended battery life)

This is a game-changer for flexibility. For example, if you have a large backyard, connecting your Essential Outdoor to a VMB4540 gives you better signal strength and lets you use a USB drive for local recordings. But if you’re just monitoring a front porch, direct Wi-Fi is simpler.

Real-World Compatibility Scenarios and Solutions

Scenario 1: Upgrading from Arlo Pro 2 to Pro 3

Situation: You have an Arlo Pro 2 system with a VMB4000 base station and want to add an Arlo Pro 3.

Problem: The VMB4000 can’t support the Pro 3. You’ll need to upgrade to a VMB4540.

Solution: Buy the VMB4540. You can keep your Pro 2 cameras (they’re compatible), and add the Pro 3. Total cost: ~$100 for the new base station. It’s a smart upgrade if you plan to add more 4K cameras later.

Tip: Arlo sometimes offers bundle deals. Check their website during sales (like Black Friday) to save on the base station.

Scenario 2: Mixing Arlo Ultra 2 with Older Cameras

Situation: You own an Arlo Ultra 2 and an old Arlo Pro. Can they work together?

Answer: Yes—if you use a VMB4540 base station. The Ultra 2 requires the VMB4540, and the Pro is backward compatible. Both cameras will sync through the same hub and appear in the Arlo app.

Bonus: You can use local USB storage for both cameras, avoiding monthly cloud fees.

Scenario 3: Using Arlo Pro 4 with an Existing Base Station

Situation: You have a VMB4540 and want to add an Arlo Pro 4.

Answer: The Pro 4 will not connect to the base station. It uses Wi-Fi only. But you can still use it alongside your other cameras. Just set it up separately in the Arlo app.

Workaround: Use the Pro 4 for indoor monitoring (where Wi-Fi is strong) and keep the base station for outdoor cameras. This gives you the best of both worlds: high-end features and local storage.

Scenario 4: Adding Arlo Essential (2nd Gen) to a VMB4540

Situation: You want to add an Arlo Essential Outdoor (2nd gen) to your VMB4540 system.

Answer: Yes! During setup, choose “Connect to Base Station” in the Arlo app. This extends battery life and enables local recordings.

Pro Tip: If you later move the camera to a spot with weak Wi-Fi, you can reconfigure it to use the base station for better performance.

Common Misconceptions and Troubleshooting Tips

“All Arlo Cameras Work With Any Base Station” – Not True!

This is a widespread myth. Many users assume Arlo is a unified ecosystem. But due to hardware and firmware changes, compatibility varies. For example:

• The Arlo Ultra 2 won’t work with a VMB4000

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• The Arlo Pro 4 won’t work with any base station
• The Arlo Essential (1st gen) needs an adapter for older hubs

Always check Arlo’s official compatibility chart before buying. A quick 5-minute search can prevent a $200 mistake.

“If It Doesn’t Connect, It’s Broken” – Maybe Not

Sometimes, the issue isn’t compatibility—it’s setup. Try these fixes:

• Restart the base station: Unplug it for 30 seconds, then plug it back in.
• Update firmware: Go to the Arlo app > Settings > My Devices > Check for updates.
• Reset the camera: Press and hold the sync button for 10+ seconds.
• Check Wi-Fi strength: Weak signals cause pairing issues. Move the camera closer during setup.

I once spent an hour troubleshooting a “broken” Arlo Pro 3. Turns out, the base station needed a firmware update. Once updated, it paired instantly.

“I Can Use a Third-Party Hub” – Not Recommended

Some users try to use non-Arlo hubs or routers to save money. This rarely works. Arlo’s base stations use proprietary protocols. Even if a third-party device has similar specs, it won’t communicate with Arlo cameras.

Stick to genuine Arlo base stations. They’re designed to work seamlessly with Arlo’s ecosystem.

Arlo Compatibility Data Table: Quick Reference Guide

Camera Model	VMB4000 (Pro/Pro 2 Hub)	VMB4540 (Pro 3/Ultra Hub)	Direct Wi-Fi Only	Notes
Arlo Pro	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	❌ No	Requires hub
Arlo Pro 2	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	❌ No	Requires hub
Arlo Pro 3	❌ No	✅ Yes	❌ No	Requires VMB4540
Arlo Ultra	❌ No	✅ Yes	❌ No	Requires VMB4540
Arlo Ultra 2	❌ No	✅ Yes	❌ No	Requires VMB4540
Arlo Pro 4	❌ No	❌ No	✅ Yes	Wi-Fi only
Arlo Pro 5S	❌ No	❌ No	✅ Yes	Wi-Fi only
Arlo Essential (1st gen)	✅ Yes (with adapter)	✅ Yes	❌ No	Adapter required for VMB4000
Arlo Essential (2nd gen)	❌ No	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	Choose during setup
Arlo Go	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	❌ No	Cellular camera

This table makes it easy to plan your setup. For example, if you have a VMB4540, you can use it with Pro 3, Ultra, Ultra 2, and Essential (1st gen). But if you want a Pro 4, you’ll need to set it up separately via Wi-Fi.

Final Thoughts: Planning Your Arlo Ecosystem the Smart Way

So, do all Arlo cameras work with all base stations? The answer is a clear no—but with some smart planning, you can build a flexible, powerful security system that meets your needs.

Start by asking yourself:

• What do I need? (Indoor/outdoor, 4K, night vision, etc.)
• Do I want local storage or cloud-only?
• Am I upgrading or starting fresh?
• What’s my budget for hubs and accessories?

If you’re starting fresh, consider the Arlo Pro 5S or Essential (2nd gen). They’re Wi-Fi-only, so no hub needed—perfect for small homes or apartments. For larger properties, the VMB4540 is worth the investment. It gives you better range, local storage, and support for high-end cameras.

And if you’re upgrading, don’t toss out your old gear. Many older cameras (like Pro 2) work with newer hubs. That means you can keep your investment while adding modern features.

Finally, remember: Arlo is constantly evolving. New cameras and hubs will come out. But by understanding the compatibility rules now, you’ll make smarter choices down the road. Whether you’re protecting your home, monitoring your kids, or keeping an eye on the backyard, the right Arlo setup makes all the difference. And now, you’ve got the knowledge to build it—correctly, efficiently, and without the frustration of incompatible tech.

So go ahead. Pick your cameras. Choose your hub. And rest easy knowing your home is secure—and your gear works together like a well-oiled machine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all Arlo cameras work with all base stations?

Not all Arlo cameras are compatible with every base station. Newer models like Arlo Pro 4 or Ultra 2 require updated base stations (e.g., Arlo SmartHub VMB5000), while older cameras like Arlo Q work with legacy base stations. Always check compatibility charts on Arlo’s website.

Can I mix and match older Arlo cameras with newer base stations?

Yes, in most cases, newer base stations (like the Arlo SmartHub) support backward compatibility with older Arlo cameras. However, features like 2K/4K streaming or advanced AI detection may be limited to newer camera models paired with the latest base stations.

Which Arlo base station works with all Arlo cameras?

The Arlo SmartHub VMB5000 is the most versatile base station, supporting all current and most legacy Arlo cameras. For older base stations, compatibility varies—verify using Arlo’s official compatibility tool before purchasing.

Why won’t my Arlo camera connect to my base station?

Connection issues may stem from incompatibility between the camera and base station models. Ensure both devices are listed as compatible, and update firmware on both the camera and base station to the latest version.

Are Arlo Pro cameras compatible with the original Arlo base station?

Arlo Pro and Pro 2 cameras work with the original Arlo base station (VMB3000), but newer Pro models (Pro 3/4) require the SmartHub VMB5000 for full functionality. Older base stations may limit resolution or smart features.

Do Arlo wired cameras work with all base stations?

Wired Arlo cameras like Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight or Essential Wired Cam require specific base stations (e.g., SmartHub VMB5000). They won’t work with older base stations designed for battery-powered models. Check Arlo’s specs for details.