Do Arlo Cameras Need a Hub Find Out Here

No, most Arlo cameras do not need a hub—they connect directly to your Wi-Fi for seamless setup and cloud access. Only select older or Pro models require an Arlo SmartHub to enable local storage, enhanced security, and extended battery life. Check your camera’s specs to confirm compatibility and needs.

Key Takeaways

• Most Arlo cameras don’t need a hub – Use Wi-Fi for simple setups.
• Pro and Ultra models require a hub – Ensures stable, long-range connectivity.
• Hubs boost performance – Reduce interference and extend battery life.
• Skip the hub for indoor cams – Direct Wi-Fi works fine for basic use.
• Check model specs before buying – Confirm hub requirements to avoid surprises.
• Hubs enable advanced features – Local storage and faster alerts need one.

Do Arlo Cameras Need a Hub? Let’s Set the Record Straight

So, you’re thinking about getting an Arlo camera—great choice! Arlo is one of the most popular brands in home security, known for sleek designs, reliable motion detection, and smart features like two-way talk and night vision. But before you hit “buy,” there’s one question that keeps popping up in forums and product reviews: Do Arlo cameras need a hub?

It’s a fair question. If you’re like me, you hate the idea of cluttering your home with yet another gadget. You want something simple: plug it in, set it up, and let it do its job. But with Arlo, the answer isn’t always clear. Some models work without a hub. Others require one. And if you’re not careful, you might end up buying the wrong kit and feeling frustrated before you even see your first motion alert.

Understanding the Role of a Hub in Smart Home Security

Let’s start with the basics. A hub—sometimes called a base station—is a central device that connects your smart home gadgets to your Wi-Fi network and to each other. Think of it as the “brain” of your security system. It handles communication between your cameras, your phone, and the cloud. But not all systems need one. Some connect directly to Wi-Fi. Others rely on Bluetooth or cellular signals. So where does Arlo stand?

What a Hub Actually Does (And Why It Matters)

A hub isn’t just a fancy box. It plays several important roles:

• Centralized connectivity: It creates a private network for your cameras, reducing strain on your home Wi-Fi.
• Local storage: Some hubs include a USB port, letting you save footage directly to a flash drive—no subscription required.
• Enhanced security: By keeping camera data on your local network (even temporarily), hubs can reduce exposure to cloud breaches.
• Reliability: If your Wi-Fi drops, a hub with a cellular backup (like Arlo’s SmartHub) can keep your system online.

For example, imagine you’re on vacation. A storm knocks out your Wi-Fi. Without a hub, your camera might go dark. But with an Arlo SmartHub that has LTE backup, your system keeps recording and sending alerts. That’s peace of mind.

When You Can Skip the Hub (And When You Shouldn’t)

Here’s the good news: not all Arlo cameras need a hub. Some connect directly to your home Wi-Fi. Others use a hub for advanced features. The key is knowing which model you’re buying.

Let’s say you live in a small apartment with strong Wi-Fi. You want one indoor camera to watch your cat while you’re at work. The Arlo Essential Indoor Camera works without a hub. It connects straight to your router. Easy.

But if you’re setting up a full security system—say, two outdoor cameras, a doorbell, and a floodlight—you’ll want the Arlo SmartHub. Why? Because it:

• Reduces Wi-Fi congestion (no “buffering” when multiple cameras stream).
• Supports local storage (save clips to a USB drive).
• Offers cellular backup (stay protected during outages).
• Enables advanced features like AI-powered object detection.

So, while a hub isn’t mandatory for every setup, it’s a smart upgrade for serious users.

Arlo Camera Models: Which Need a Hub and Which Don’t?

Now let’s get specific. Arlo has several camera lines, and the hub requirement varies by model. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide.

Arlo Cameras That Work Without a Hub

These models connect directly to your Wi-Fi router:

• Arlo Essential Series (Indoor & Outdoor): Budget-friendly and simple. Great for single-camera setups. No hub needed. Uses Wi-Fi for all connectivity.
• Arlo Pro 4/5 Spotlight Cameras: These are wireless and connect to Wi-Fi. However, they can use a SmartHub for local storage and cellular backup (but don’t require it).
• Arlo Video Doorbell (Wired & Wireless): Connects to Wi-Fi. No hub required for basic features.
• Arlo Floodlight Cam: Works over Wi-Fi. Optional SmartHub for enhanced reliability.

Pro Tip: If you’re using a Wi-Fi-only camera, place it within 30–50 feet of your router. Walls and appliances can weaken the signal. I learned this the hard way when my backyard camera kept disconnecting—until I moved it closer to the window.

Arlo Cameras That Require a Hub (Or Work Better With One)

These models rely on a hub for core functionality or advanced features:

• Arlo Pro 3/4 (with Base Station): Older models like the Pro 3 and Pro 4 were designed to work with the Arlo Base Station. While the Pro 4 can use Wi-Fi, the Pro 3 requires the base station for connectivity and local storage.
• Arlo Ultra/Ultra 2: High-end 4K cameras. They use the Arlo SmartHub for 4K streaming, local storage, and LTE backup. Without the hub, you lose key features.
• Arlo SmartHub (for Pro 4/5 and Essential): Not a camera, but a hub that unlocks local storage and cellular backup for compatible cameras. Sold separately or in bundles.
• Arlo Go (LTE Camera): Uses cellular data instead of Wi-Fi. Requires an Arlo SmartHub for LTE activation and cloud sync.

Real-World Example: My neighbor bought the Arlo Ultra 2 without checking the specs. He assumed it would work like his old Wi-Fi camera. When he set it up, he couldn’t stream in 4K or use local storage—because he didn’t have the SmartHub. Lesson learned: always read the fine print.

Hybrid Models: The Best of Both Worlds

Some newer Arlo cameras, like the Pro 5S, offer hybrid connectivity. They can connect to Wi-Fi for basic functions but require the SmartHub for:

• 4K video streaming
• Local USB storage
• Cellular backup
• Advanced AI detection (e.g., package, vehicle, animal)

This gives you flexibility. Use Wi-Fi for everyday monitoring. Add the hub later if you want premium features.

Pros and Cons of Using a Hub with Your Arlo System

By now, you might be leaning toward “yes” or “no” on the hub question. But let’s weigh the real-world trade-offs to help you decide.

Advantages of Using an Arlo Hub

1. Reduced Wi-Fi Congestion
Multiple cameras streaming over Wi-Fi can slow down your network. A hub acts as a local server, handling camera traffic so your Netflix and Zoom calls stay smooth. I noticed a big difference after adding a SmartHub—my home Wi-Fi felt faster.

2. Local Storage (No Subscription Needed)
Arlo’s cloud plans start at $3/month per camera. But with a hub, you can save clips to a USB drive. No recurring fees. Just plug in a 128GB drive and go. For a 4-camera system, that’s a $12/month saving—$144/year!

3. Cellular Backup
If your Wi-Fi goes down, the SmartHub with LTE keeps your system online. Crucial for emergencies. My friend’s home lost power during a storm. Her Wi-Fi died, but the hub’s cellular backup sent an alert when her front door was forced open.

4. Enhanced Security
Local storage means your footage isn’t sitting on Arlo’s servers. Less risk of hacking. Plus, the hub uses encryption to protect data.

5. Better Performance
Hubs reduce latency. Cameras connect faster, and motion alerts arrive quicker. Great for catching delivery drivers or intruders.

Drawbacks of Using an Arlo Hub

1. Added Cost
The SmartHub costs $100–$150 (depending on the model). If you’re on a tight budget, this might feel like overkill.

2. Extra Setup
You’ll need to place the hub near your router and power outlet. Not a dealbreaker, but it adds clutter. I kept mine in a closet with my modem to hide the cables.

3. Single Point of Failure
If the hub fails, your cameras lose advanced features. But most hubs are reliable. Mine’s been running for 3 years with no issues.

4. Limited Compatibility
Not all Arlo cameras work with every hub. For example, the old Arlo Base Station (for Pro 3) doesn’t support the Pro 5S. Check compatibility before buying.

How to Choose the Right Arlo Setup for Your Needs

Now that you know the hub’s role, let’s match it to your lifestyle. Here’s how to pick the perfect system.

For Renters or Small Homes (1–2 Cameras)

Go Hub-Free. Use Wi-Fi-only cameras like the Arlo Essential Indoor or Pro 4 Spotlight. They’re easy to install, and you can take them when you move.

Tip: Place indoor cameras near power outlets. Outdoor cameras need weatherproofing—check the IP rating (e.g., IP65 for dust/water resistance).

For Larger Homes or Multiple Cameras

Invest in a SmartHub. It’s worth it for:

• 4+ cameras (reduces Wi-Fi strain)
• Outdoor setups (cellular backup is a lifesaver)
• Local storage (save money on subscriptions)

Example: A family with a backyard, front porch, and garage might use two Pro 5S cameras and a Video Doorbell. The SmartHub keeps everything running smoothly.

For Tech Enthusiasts or High-Security Needs

Get the Full Package. Pair the Arlo Ultra 2 with the SmartHub + LTE for:

• 4K video
• Local + cloud storage
• Cellular backup
• AI-powered alerts (no more false alarms from pets)

Bonus Tip: Use the Arlo app to customize alert zones. For instance, ignore the sidewalk but get alerts for your front door.

Budget-Conscious Shoppers

Start Simple, Upgrade Later. Buy a Wi-Fi camera now (e.g., Essential Outdoor). Add a hub later if you need more features. Arlo’s ecosystem lets you mix and match.

Data Comparison: Hub vs. No Hub Performance

To see the real impact, here’s a data table comparing key metrics for Arlo cameras with and without a hub.

Feature	Wi-Fi-Only Setup (No Hub)	With Arlo SmartHub
Max Video Resolution	1080p (Essential), 2K (Pro 4/5)	4K (Ultra 2), 2K (Pro 5S)
Storage Options	Cloud only (subscription required)	Cloud + Local USB (no subscription)
Wi-Fi Bandwidth Use	High (each camera streams directly)	Low (hub manages traffic)
Cellular Backup	Not available	Available (with LTE plan)
Setup Complexity	Easy (plug-and-play)	Moderate (hub placement + syncing)
Monthly Cost (4 Cameras)	$12 (cloud subscription)	$0 (with local storage)
Best For	Small spaces, renters, budget setups	Large homes, high-security, long-term use

Key Takeaway: The hub isn’t just a “nice-to-have.” It’s a tool that improves performance, saves money, and boosts reliability. But if you’re keeping things simple, Wi-Fi-only works just fine.

Final Thoughts: Do Arlo Cameras Need a Hub?

So, back to the original question: Do Arlo cameras need a hub? The short answer? It depends.

If you want a simple, affordable setup—like one camera watching your front door—you can skip the hub. The Wi-Fi-only models are reliable and easy to use. But if you’re building a full security system, want local storage, or need cellular backup, the hub is a game-changer. It’s not just about connectivity; it’s about control, reliability, and peace of mind.

From my own experience, I started with a single Essential camera (no hub). It worked well for a year. But when I added a second camera and noticed Wi-Fi lag, I upgraded to the SmartHub. The difference was night and day. Alerts were faster, storage was free, and I felt more secure knowing my system could handle outages.

Ultimately, the hub is like the foundation of a house. You can build without it, but with it, your system is stronger, smarter, and ready for anything. So take a moment to think about your needs. Are you a casual user or a security enthusiast? Do you want flexibility or simplicity? The right choice is the one that fits your life—not the one that looks flashiest on a box.

And remember: Arlo’s ecosystem is modular. You can always start small and add the hub later. There’s no “wrong” choice—just the one that works for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Arlo cameras need a hub to work?

Most Arlo cameras do not require a hub and connect directly to your Wi-Fi network. However, select models like Arlo Ultra, Pro 3/4, and wired doorbells may use a SmartHub or base station for extended range and local storage.

What’s the advantage of using an Arlo SmartHub?

The SmartHub enhances performance by reducing Wi-Fi congestion and enabling local video storage. It also improves battery life and supports 2K/4K streaming for compatible Arlo cameras.

Can I use an Arlo camera without a hub or base station?

Yes, many newer Arlo cameras (e.g., Arlo Pro 5S, Essential series) connect directly to your home Wi-Fi without a hub. Check your camera’s specs to confirm if a hub is optional or required.

Is the Arlo hub necessary for cloud storage?

No, the hub isn’t required for cloud storage—Arlo cameras upload footage to the cloud via Wi-Fi. The hub only adds local backup storage and network optimization features.

Which Arlo cameras require a hub or base station?

Cameras like Arlo Ultra, Pro 3/4, and Wired Video Doorbells typically require a SmartHub or base station for setup and advanced features. Newer standalone models often eliminate this need.

Does skipping the Arlo hub affect camera performance?

Without a hub, performance depends on your Wi-Fi strength, but most users won’t notice issues. The hub mainly benefits large properties or those needing local storage and reduced bandwidth usage.