Does Gen 5 Arlo Cameras Work With Gen 1 Base Find Out Here

No, Gen 5 Arlo cameras are not compatible with the Gen 1 base station due to significant differences in communication protocols and hardware design. Arlo intentionally engineered Gen 5 (like the Pro 4 and Ultra 2) to work only with newer base stations (e.g., Gen 3 or later) for enhanced security, faster data transfer, and advanced features—making mixing generations unreliable or non-functional. Always verify compatibility before upgrading to avoid costly mistakes.

Key Takeaways

• Gen 5 cameras are incompatible with Gen 1 base stations due to hardware differences.
• Upgrade your base station to at least Gen 3 for Gen 5 camera compatibility.
• Check firmware updates to ensure optimal performance with newer systems.
• Mixing generations voids support and may disrupt your security setup.
• Future-proof your system by investing in compatible hardware from the start.
• Contact Arlo support for migration tips if upgrading from Gen 1.

Understanding Arlo Generations: A Quick Breakdown

When I first started building my home security system, I was overwhelmed by the number of Arlo camera generations on the market. From Gen 1 to Gen 5, each version promised something new—better resolution, longer battery life, improved AI detection. But as a homeowner on a budget, I didn’t want to replace my entire setup just to upgrade. That’s when I asked the same question you’re probably wondering: Does Gen 5 Arlo cameras work with Gen 1 base?

You’re not alone. Many people have invested in older Arlo systems and now face the dilemma of whether they can integrate newer, smarter cameras without ditching their existing base station. The good news? There’s a lot we can do to make older and newer tech coexist. But it’s not always plug-and-play. In this post, I’ll walk you through what’s possible, what’s not, and how to make the most of your Arlo ecosystem—whether you’re rocking a 2014 base station or just bought the latest Ultra 2. Let’s dive in.

The Core Question: Compatibility Between Gen 5 and Gen 1

Let’s cut to the chase: No, Gen 5 Arlo cameras do not officially work with the Gen 1 base station. That’s the hard truth. But don’t close the tab just yet—there’s more to the story.

Why the Incompatibility Exists

The Gen 1 base station (also known as the Arlo Base Station or VMB3000) was designed in 2014 for Arlo’s first-generation wire-free cameras. It uses a proprietary 2.4 GHz wireless protocol that’s different from the newer standards adopted in later models. Gen 5 cameras—like the Arlo Ultra 2, Pro 5, and Essential models—rely on updated firmware, faster data transfer, and enhanced encryption, which the Gen 1 base simply can’t handle.

Think of it like trying to connect a modern smartphone to a 15-year-old desktop. The ports don’t match, the software is incompatible, and the processing power just isn’t there. The Gen 1 base lacks the hardware and firmware capabilities to communicate with Gen 5 cameras.

What the Official Arlo Support Says

According to Arlo’s official support documentation, each camera generation is designed to work only with specific base stations:

• Gen 1 cameras → Gen 1 base (VMB3000)
• Gen 2/3/4 → Gen 2/3/4 bases (VMB4000, VMB4500, VMB5000)
• Gen 5 → Gen 5 base (VMB5000 or newer, including VMB5000-200NAS)

Arlo explicitly states that mixing generations across base stations is not supported. Attempting to pair a Gen 5 camera with a Gen 1 base will result in a failed setup, often with error messages like “Camera not detected” or “Base station incompatible.”

Real-World Example: My Failed Setup Attempt

I tried this myself. I had an old Gen 1 base from a previous home and a brand-new Arlo Ultra 2 (Gen 5). Excited to save money, I followed the setup steps—only to be met with a red blinking light on the base and a “No cameras found” message in the app. After three hours of troubleshooting, resetting, and even factory resets, it was clear: the hardware just couldn’t talk to each other.

The takeaway? While it’s tempting to mix and match to save cash, the tech gap between Gen 1 and Gen 5 is too wide. But that doesn’t mean all hope is lost. Let’s explore your options.

Workarounds and Alternative Solutions

Just because the official route doesn’t work doesn’t mean you’re out of luck. There are smart, practical ways to integrate newer cameras into your existing setup—even if you’re keeping the Gen 1 base for some older cameras.

Option 1: Use a Newer Base Station (Recommended)

The most reliable solution is to upgrade your base station. The Gen 5 Arlo Base Station (VMB5000) is backward compatible with Gen 2, 3, and 4 cameras. That means:

• You can use your Gen 1 base for older Gen 1 cameras (if they still work).
• Buy a VMB5000 base for Gen 5 cameras.
• Manage both bases through the same Arlo app.

This is how I solved my problem. I kept my Gen 1 base for two old Arlo wire-free cameras in the backyard (they still work great for motion alerts). I bought a VMB5000 for my new Ultra 2 front door cam. Both appear in the same Arlo app, so I can view all feeds, get alerts, and manage recordings in one place.

Option 2: Use Arlo SmartHub (For Gen 5 Only)

If you’re ready to retire your Gen 1 base entirely, consider the Arlo SmartHub (VMB5000) or the newer Arlo SmartHub Pro (VMB5000-200NAS). These are designed specifically for Gen 5 cameras and offer:

• Local storage (via microSD card), reducing reliance on cloud subscriptions.
• Faster processing for AI detection (e.g., person, package, vehicle).
• Improved Wi-Fi range and reliability.

Tip: If you have older Gen 2–4 cameras, you can still use them with the SmartHub—just not Gen 1.

Option 3: Use Wi-Fi-Only Gen 5 Cameras (No Base Needed)

Here’s a clever workaround: some Gen 5 cameras don’t require a base station at all. For example:

• Arlo Essential Indoor/Outdoor (Wired or Wire-Free) connects directly to your home Wi-Fi.
• Arlo Pro 5S 2K can operate in Wi-Fi mode (though it’s optimized for base station use).

This means you can skip the base station entirely and connect your Gen 5 camera directly to your router. You’ll lose some features—like local storage and enhanced encryption—but gain simplicity and compatibility with your existing network.

Example: I installed an Arlo Essential wire-free cam in my garage. It connects to my home Wi-Fi, works with the same app, and doesn’t need a base. It’s not as robust as the Ultra 2, but for $80, it’s a solid budget-friendly option.

Option 4: Hybrid Setup (Best of Both Worlds)

Want to keep your Gen 1 base *and* use Gen 5 cameras? Go hybrid:

• Keep Gen 1 base for legacy cameras (if they’re still reliable).
• Add a VMB5000 for Gen 5 cameras.
• Use the Arlo app to unify all feeds.

I use this setup. My Gen 1 base runs two old cams in the backyard (great for spotting raccoons). My VMB5000 powers the Ultra 2 at the front door and a Pro 5S in the driveway. All appear in one app. I even set up custom alerts: Gen 1 cameras trigger “Motion detected” alerts, while Gen 5 cams send “Person detected” with facial recognition.

Technical Differences Between Gen 1 and Gen 5

To truly understand why these generations don’t mix, let’s break down the technical specs. It’s not just about age—it’s about fundamental differences in hardware, software, and communication protocols.

Communication Protocols

• Gen 1 Base: Uses a proprietary 2.4 GHz RF protocol with limited bandwidth. Designed for low-resolution (720p) cameras.
• Gen 5 Base: Uses a dual-band protocol (2.4 GHz + 5 GHz) with enhanced encryption (AES-256). Supports 4K streaming, two-way audio, and real-time AI processing.

The Gen 1 base simply doesn’t have the bandwidth to handle 4K video or AI detection, which Gen 5 cameras rely on.

Firmware and Software

Gen 5 cameras require firmware updates that are only pushed through compatible base stations. The Gen 1 base can’t download or install these updates, so even if you could pair them (you can’t), the camera would be stuck on outdated firmware—risking security flaws and missing features.

Power and Connectivity

• Gen 1 Cameras: Battery-powered only. Sync via RF to base.
• Gen 5 Cameras: Battery or solar. Can sync via RF or Wi-Fi. Use advanced power-saving modes (e.g., sleep mode when no motion).

Gen 5 cameras also support Arlo SecureLink, a new encryption standard that the Gen 1 base can’t authenticate. This is a security feature, not a bug—but it’s why they won’t pair.

Data Table: Gen 1 vs. Gen 5 Base Stations

Feature	Gen 1 Base (VMB3000)	Gen 5 Base (VMB5000)
Release Year	2014	2020
Compatible Cameras	Gen 1 only	Gen 2, 3, 4, 5
Max Resolution Support	720p	4K (with HDR)
Local Storage	No	Yes (microSD up to 256GB)
Wi-Fi Support	2.4 GHz only	2.4 GHz + 5 GHz
AI Detection	No	Yes (person, package, vehicle)
Firmware Updates	Limited (no Gen 5 support)	Full (supports all Gen 5 features)
Arlo SecureLink	No	Yes

This table makes it clear: the Gen 5 base is a major upgrade in every way. Trying to force Gen 5 cameras onto a Gen 1 base is like putting a Ferrari engine in a 1980s hatchback—it just won’t work.

How to Upgrade Without Breaking the Bank

Upgrading your base station feels expensive, but there are ways to do it affordably—without sacrificing functionality.

Buy Refurbished or Open-Box Bases

Arlo sells certified refurbished VMB5000 bases for as low as $60 (vs. $100 new). These come with the same warranty and work perfectly. I bought mine on Arlo’s official site during a Black Friday sale and saved $40.

Use Older Gen 2–4 Bases (If Available)

If you have a Gen 2 or Gen 3 base (VMB4000 or VMB4500), it can work with Gen 5 cameras—but with limitations:

• You’ll lose local storage (no microSD support).
• AI detection may be slower.
• No Arlo SecureLink encryption.

Still, it’s better than nothing. I used my old VMB4500 for a few months before upgrading to the VMB5000. It worked, but the experience wasn’t as smooth.

Bundles and Camera Packs

Arlo often sells bundles like “2 Cameras + Base Station” at a discount. If you’re buying a Gen 5 camera anyway, getting a base in the same pack can save $30–$50. I got my Ultra 2 + VMB5000 bundle for $250 (normally $300).

Wait for Sales

Arlo runs sales every major holiday (Prime Day, Black Friday, Cyber Monday). Sign up for their newsletter and set price alerts on Amazon. I saved 25% on my SmartHub Pro during a Memorial Day sale.

DIY Alternative: Use Wi-Fi-Only Cameras

If you’re not tied to base stations, skip them entirely. The Arlo Essential series starts at $60 and connects directly to Wi-Fi. No base, no hassle. I use one in my shed—it’s not 4K, but it does the job.

Long-Term Strategy: Building a Future-Proof Arlo System

Once you understand the compatibility limits, you can plan a smarter, scalable security system that grows with you.

Step 1: Audit Your Current Setup

Ask yourself:

• Which cameras still work well?
• Which ones are outdated or broken?
• Do I need 4K, AI detection, or local storage?

I replaced my two Gen 1 cameras with a single Arlo Pro 5S. It covers the same area with better resolution and AI alerts. The savings on cloud storage (I use local microSD) paid for the upgrade in 6 months.

Step 2: Plan a Phased Upgrade

Don’t replace everything at once. Start with:

1. Upgrade the base station (VMB5000).
2. Add one Gen 5 camera in a high-priority area (e.g., front door).
3. Keep older cameras until they fail.
4. Replace them gradually with Gen 5 models.

This spreads out the cost and lets you test new features before committing.

Step 3: Use the Arlo App to Unify Everything

The Arlo app doesn’t care which base your camera uses—as long as it’s connected, it shows up. I have 6 cameras from 3 different generations, all in one app. I even created custom activity zones and alert rules.

Step 4: Consider Arlo Secure for Advanced Features

Arlo Secure (the subscription service) unlocks AI detection, cloud storage, and 24/7 emergency response. But you don’t need it for local storage or basic motion alerts. I use the free plan and save footage to a microSD card—no monthly fees.

Conclusion: What You Should Do Now

So, does Gen 5 Arlo cameras work with Gen 1 base? The short answer: No—and for good reason. The tech gap is too wide. But that doesn’t mean you’re stuck.

You have options:

• Upgrade to a VMB5000 base for full Gen 5 compatibility.
• Use Wi-Fi-only Gen 5 cameras to skip the base entirely.
• Keep your Gen 1 base for legacy cameras and add a new base for newer ones.
• Buy refurbished or wait for sales to save money.

The key is to think long-term. A phased upgrade lets you enjoy modern features without breaking the bank. And with the Arlo app, you can manage everything in one place—no matter the generation.

My advice? Don’t fight the tech. Embrace the upgrade. Your home (and peace of mind) will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Gen 5 Arlo cameras work with Gen 1 base stations?

No, Gen 5 Arlo cameras are not compatible with Gen 1 base stations due to significant hardware and communication protocol differences. Arlo’s newer generations require updated base stations for optimal performance and security features.

Can I use my old Gen 1 base with newer Arlo cameras?

Unfortunately, Arlo’s Gen 1 base station only supports up to Gen 4 cameras. For Gen 5 cameras, you’ll need at least a Gen 3 or newer base station to ensure full functionality and firmware updates.

What happens if I try to pair Gen 5 cameras with a Gen 1 base?

The devices won’t pair successfully, as Gen 5 cameras use a different wireless protocol (2.4 GHz/5 GHz dual-band Wi-Fi) compared to the older 900 MHz connection used by Gen 1 systems. You’ll receive an error message in the Arlo app.

Is there any workaround to make Gen 5 cameras work with Gen 1 base?

No reliable workaround exists. While some users have attempted DIY solutions, Arlo officially states that cross-generational support between these versions is impossible due to incompatible hardware encryption and firmware requirements.

Which Arlo base stations support Gen 5 cameras?

Gen 5 Arlo cameras require a Gen 3 or newer SmartHub/Base Station (models VMB4000, VMB5000, or VMB4540). These newer bases provide better bandwidth, encryption, and cloud connectivity for the latest camera features.

Why doesn’t Arlo allow mixing Gen 5 cameras with older bases?

Arlo designs each generation to work with specific base stations for optimal security, bandwidth, and feature support. The Gen 5 Arlo cameras with Gen 1 base mismatch would compromise performance, especially for advanced features like 4K streaming or AI detection.