Do I Need the Base Station With Arlo Cameras Explained

No, you don’t always need a base station with Arlo cameras, as newer models like the Arlo Pro 4 and Arlo Ultra 2 connect directly to Wi-Fi for seamless setup and local storage. However, using a base station enhances reliability, extends battery life, and unlocks features like 24/7 recording and local backup—ideal for power users seeking maximum performance.

Key Takeaways

• Base stations enhance performance: They extend Wi-Fi range and stabilize Arlo camera connections.
• Required for older models: First-gen Arlo cams need a base station to function properly.
• Newer models skip the hub: Arlo Pro 4/Ultra 2 connect directly to Wi-Fi without one.
• Hubs enable local storage: Base stations support microSD backups if cloud isn’t preferred.
• Multi-cam setups benefit: Use a base station to manage 4+ cameras seamlessly.
• Check compatibility first: Confirm your Arlo model’s base station needs before purchasing.

Why Arlo Cameras Have Become a Smart Home Staple

When my neighbor installed a sleek Arlo camera above his front porch, I’ll admit—I was a little jealous. Not just because it looked modern, but because it gave him peace of mind. He could check his property from his phone, get motion alerts, and even talk to delivery people remotely. I started wondering: could I do the same? But as I dug into the details, one question kept popping up—do I need the base station with Arlo cameras? It felt like a small detail, but the answer turned out to be more important than I thought.

Like many people, I assumed all wireless cameras worked the same—plug in the camera, connect to Wi-Fi, and you’re done. But Arlo’s ecosystem is a bit different. Some models work with a base station, others don’t. Some can use a bridge, some rely on your home Wi-Fi, and some even work with smart hubs. It’s confusing, especially when you’re just trying to keep an eye on your backyard or monitor your front door. In this post, I’ll walk you through everything I learned—what the base station actually does, when it’s necessary, and when you might be better off skipping it. Whether you’re a tech newbie or a DIY home security enthusiast, this guide will help you make the right call for your setup.

What Is an Arlo Base Station and What Does It Actually Do?

Understanding the Base Station’s Role in the Arlo Ecosystem

The Arlo base station—often called the Arlo SmartHub—isn’t just a charging dock or a Wi-Fi booster. It’s the central hub that manages communication between your Arlo cameras and the cloud. Think of it like a home’s nervous system: it receives data from the cameras, sends alerts to your phone, and stores recordings locally if you’re using an SD card. Without it, certain Arlo models simply won’t function as intended.

For example, older models like the Arlo Pro, Arlo Pro 2, and Arlo Ultra were designed to work exclusively with a base station. These cameras don’t connect directly to your home Wi-Fi. Instead, they use a proprietary wireless protocol (similar to Zigbee or Z-Wave) to talk to the base station, which then connects to your router. This setup helps reduce Wi-Fi congestion and improves battery life, since the camera isn’t constantly trying to maintain a direct Wi-Fi connection.

Key Functions of the Base Station

• Local Processing: The base station handles motion detection and video processing locally, which means fewer false alerts and faster response times.
• Local Storage: You can insert a microSD card into the base station to store video clips without relying on cloud storage. This is a big plus if you’re privacy-conscious or want to avoid monthly subscription fees.
• Network Stability: Because cameras communicate with the base station (not your Wi-Fi), they’re less likely to drop connection during Wi-Fi outages or heavy network use.
• Smart Alerts: With local processing, the base station can filter out things like swaying trees or passing cars, sending only meaningful alerts to your phone.
• Remote Access: Even though the cameras talk to the base station, the base station connects to the internet, letting you view your cameras from anywhere via the Arlo app.

I learned this the hard way when I tried setting up an Arlo Pro 3 without a base station. The app kept saying “camera not connected,” and I spent an hour troubleshooting—only to realize the camera requires the hub. It was a humbling moment, but it taught me how crucial the base station is for certain models.

Which Arlo Cameras Require a Base Station (and Which Don’t)?

Cameras That Must Use a Base Station

Not all Arlo cameras are created equal. Some are built around the base station, while others are designed to work independently. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Arlo Pro (1st and 2nd gen): Requires base station. No direct Wi-Fi option.
• Arlo Pro 3 / Pro 4: Requires base station. Uses a more advanced wireless protocol (802.15.4) for better range and battery life.
• Arlo Ultra: Requires base station. Offers 4K video and advanced AI features, all processed through the hub.
• Arlo Essential Indoor/Outdoor Wired: Does not require a base station. Connects directly to Wi-Fi.
• Arlo Essential Spotlight Camera: Connects directly to Wi-Fi. No base station needed.
• Arlo Pro 5S / Pro 6: These newer models support both base station and direct Wi-Fi (via the Arlo SmartHub or your router). More on this below.

The Game-Changer: Dual-Connectivity Models

Here’s where things get interesting. The Arlo Pro 5S and Pro 6 introduced a hybrid approach. These cameras can work with or without a base station. If you use the base station, you get all the benefits—local storage, better battery life, fewer false alerts. But if you prefer simplicity, you can skip the hub and connect directly to your Wi-Fi. It’s a great middle ground for people who want flexibility.

For example, my friend Sarah has a small apartment. She didn’t want extra devices cluttering her space, so she set up an Arlo Pro 5S directly to Wi-Fi. It works fine—she gets alerts, can view live footage, and even uses cloud storage. But her battery drains faster (about 2 weeks instead of 3–4), and she gets more false alerts when her cat walks by. She doesn’t mind, though, because she values simplicity over advanced features.

Cameras That Work Without Any Hub

The Arlo Essential series—like the Essential Spotlight and Essential Indoor—are designed for plug-and-play simplicity. They connect directly to your Wi-Fi, just like a smart plug or a Wi-Fi bulb. No base station, no hub, no extra steps. They’re ideal for renters, small homes, or anyone who wants a quick setup.

But there’s a trade-off: these cameras rely entirely on your Wi-Fi. If your internet goes down, you can’t access live feeds or recordings. Also, since all processing happens in the cloud, you may experience slight delays in alerts and video playback. Plus, you lose the option of local storage unless you use Arlo’s cloud subscription.

Pros and Cons of Using the Arlo Base Station

Advantages of Using a Base Station

After testing several setups, I found the base station offers some real perks—especially for larger homes or security-focused users.

• Better Battery Life: Cameras using the base station consume less power because they don’t constantly connect to Wi-Fi. For example, my Arlo Pro 4 lasts about 4 months on a single charge with the base station. Without it? Closer to 2 months.
• Reduced Wi-Fi Load: If you have 4+ cameras, connecting them all to Wi-Fi can strain your network. The base station acts as a buffer, reducing the number of devices on your main router.
• Local Video Storage: You can use a microSD card (up to 2TB) to store recordings locally. No subscription needed. This is a game-changer for people who don’t want to pay monthly fees or worry about data privacy.
• Fewer False Alerts: The base station uses AI to filter motion events. It can tell the difference between a person, a pet, and a moving shadow. I used to get 10+ alerts a day from my neighbor’s cat. With the base station, I now get 1–2 meaningful alerts.
• Reliability During Internet Outages: If your internet goes down, the base station keeps recording locally. You won’t miss important events, even if the cloud is unreachable.

Drawbacks of the Base Station

Of course, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. The base station has some downsides worth considering.

• Extra Cost: The base station adds $50–$100 to your setup. If you’re on a tight budget, that’s money you could spend on another camera or a better router.
• More Devices to Manage: It’s another gadget to plug in, update, and troubleshoot. If it fails, your cameras go offline—even if your internet is fine.
• Limited Range (in some cases): The wireless connection between the base station and cameras has a range of about 300 feet (line of sight). In large yards or multi-story homes, you might need a second base station or a Wi-Fi extender.
• Not Needed for Small Setups: If you only have 1–2 cameras in a small area, the base station might be overkill. You could get the same functionality with a Wi-Fi-connected model and save money.

I once helped my parents set up Arlo Pro 3 cameras around their house. They have a big backyard, so we needed two base stations to cover the full range. That doubled the cost and added complexity. For them, it was worth it—but for a city apartment, it would’ve been unnecessary.

When Should You Skip the Base Station?

You Have a Small Home or Apartment

If you live in a 1–2 bedroom apartment or a small house, the base station might not add much value. Your Wi-Fi signal is likely strong enough to handle 1–3 cameras directly. You’ll save money and reduce clutter.

For example, my sister lives in a 700 sq ft condo. She uses two Arlo Essential Spotlight cameras connected directly to Wi-Fi. She gets alerts, can view live footage, and even uses the built-in siren to scare off suspicious activity. She’s never felt the need for a base station—and she’s been happy with the setup for over a year.

You Want a Plug-and-Play Setup

Some people just want to install a camera and forget about it. If that’s you, go with a Wi-Fi-only model like the Arlo Essential series. No extra devices, no complex pairing process. Just scan a QR code, connect to Wi-Fi, and you’re done.

I tried this with my garage camera. I didn’t want to run wires or deal with a hub. The Arlo Essential Wired camera took 10 minutes to set up. It’s been running smoothly ever since.

You’re on a Tight Budget

Let’s be real: home security can get expensive. If you’re trying to keep costs low, skip the base station. You can always add it later if needed. Start with one Wi-Fi-connected camera, see how it performs, and upgrade your system over time.

You Already Have a Strong Wi-Fi Network

If you have a modern mesh Wi-Fi system (like Eero, Google Nest, or TP-Link Deco), your network can easily handle multiple cameras. In this case, the base station’s Wi-Fi benefits are less relevant. You might prefer the simplicity of direct Wi-Fi connections.

You Don’t Need Local Storage

If you’re okay with using Arlo’s cloud storage (which starts at $3/month per camera), you don’t need a base station for local recording. The cloud plan includes 30-day rolling storage, activity zones, and AI detection—many of the same features the base station offers.

Making the Right Choice: A Practical Decision Guide

So, how do you decide? It comes down to your specific needs, budget, and home setup. Here’s a simple framework to help you choose:

Use a Base Station If:

• You have 3+ Arlo cameras.
• You want local video storage (no monthly fees).
• You have a large home or yard (over 2,000 sq ft).
• You’re using older Arlo models (Pro 1/2, Pro 3/4, Ultra).
• You want better battery life and fewer false alerts.
• Your Wi-Fi is weak or overloaded.

Skip the Base Station If:

• You have 1–2 cameras in a small space.
• You’re using Arlo Essential or newer Wi-Fi-only models.
• You prefer simplicity and fewer devices.
• You’re on a tight budget.
• You already have strong Wi-Fi and don’t mind cloud storage.

Data Table: Base Station vs. Direct Wi-Fi Comparison

Feature	With Base Station	Direct Wi-Fi (No Hub)
Setup Complexity	Moderate (requires hub setup)	Low (plug and play)
Local Storage	Yes (microSD card)	No (cloud only)
Battery Life	Longer (3–6 months)	Shorter (2–3 months)
False Alerts	Fewer (local AI processing)	More (cloud-based detection)
Internet Dependency	Only for remote access	Required for all functions
Cost	Higher (hub + cameras)	Lower (cameras only)
Best For	Large homes, advanced users, privacy-focused setups	Small homes, renters, budget-conscious users

Final Thoughts: It Depends on Your Needs—And That’s Okay

After months of testing, researching, and helping friends set up their systems, I’ve come to one conclusion: do I need the base station with Arlo cameras? The answer isn’t a simple yes or no. It depends on your home, your goals, and how much you want to invest—both in money and time.

The base station is powerful, but it’s not for everyone. If you’re building a robust, privacy-focused security system with multiple cameras, it’s a smart investment. It extends battery life, reduces false alerts, and gives you local storage—features that can make a real difference.

But if you’re just starting out, live in a small space, or value simplicity, you can absolutely skip it. Modern Wi-Fi-connected Arlo cameras like the Essential series or Pro 5S (in Wi-Fi mode) work great on their own. You’ll still get reliable alerts, live streaming, and cloud storage—without the extra hardware.

My advice? Start small. Buy one camera, set it up, and see how it fits into your life. If you find yourself wishing for longer battery life or local storage, then consider adding a base station later. Arlo’s ecosystem is flexible, and you’re not locked into one path forever.

At the end of the day, the best security system is the one you’ll actually use. Whether you go with a base station or not, the most important thing is feeling safe and in control. And that’s something every homeowner deserves.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need the base station with Arlo cameras to use them?

While some newer Arlo models (like the Pro 3, Pro 4, and Ultra) can connect directly to Wi-Fi, most Arlo cameras require a base station for optimal performance. The base station reduces Wi-Fi congestion and ensures a stable connection.

What happens if I don’t use a base station with Arlo cameras?

Without a base station, certain Arlo models may experience lag, reduced battery life, or connectivity issues. The base station also enables local storage and advanced features like 24/7 recording on select models.

Can I use Arlo cameras without the base station for outdoor security?

Yes, Wi-Fi-enabled Arlo cameras (e.g., Arlo Pro 4) can function without a base station, but they rely heavily on your home network. For larger properties or multiple cameras, the base station is recommended to avoid bandwidth strain.

Is the Arlo base station required for cloud storage?

No, the base station is not required for cloud storage—any Arlo camera can upload footage to the cloud via Wi-Fi. However, the base station provides local backup storage, reducing dependency on internet upload speeds.

Does skipping the base station affect Arlo camera performance?

Skipping the base station may impact performance, especially for older models or setups with multiple cameras. The base station manages traffic efficiently, improving response time and reducing Wi-Fi interference.

Are there Arlo cameras that don’t need a base station?

Yes, newer models like the Arlo Pro 4, Arlo Go, and Arlo Essential series connect directly to Wi-Fi or cellular networks. These are ideal for renters or users who prefer a simpler setup without extra hardware.