How Can I Get 6 Cameras With Arlo A Complete Guide

Get 6 Arlo cameras seamlessly by choosing an Arlo SmartHub or base station that supports up to 16 cameras, ensuring full compatibility and optimal performance. Purchase a 6-camera bundle or combine individual Arlo Pro, Ultra, or Essential models with a multi-camera plan for cloud storage and smart alerts. Follow Arlo’s easy setup via the app to sync all six cameras and customize motion zones, notifications, and automation for complete home security.

Key Takeaways

• Choose the right Arlo bundle: Opt for a 6-camera kit to save costs and simplify setup.
• Leverage subscription plans: Arlo Secure enhances functionality with cloud storage and AI detection.
• Use a strong Wi-Fi connection: Ensure stable performance by placing cameras near your router.
• Expand with Arlo SmartHub: Connect up to 6 cameras seamlessly with a dedicated hub.
• Prioritize placement: Install cameras at entry points and high-traffic areas for maximum coverage.
• Utilize free local storage: Insert a USB drive into the SmartHub to avoid subscription fees.

Why 6 Cameras Might Be the Perfect Fit for Your Home

Imagine this: you just got home after a long day, only to realize you left the back door unlocked. Your mind races—was the garage closed? Did the kids remember to lock the side gate? If you’ve ever felt that pang of anxiety, you’re not alone. For many of us, peace of mind comes from knowing our homes are secure, and one of the best ways to achieve that is with a reliable security camera system. But how do you get 6 cameras with Arlo? And is it even worth the effort?

Arlo is one of the most trusted names in smart home security, known for its sleek design, easy setup, and high-quality video. Whether you’re protecting a suburban house, a rental property, or a multi-story home, scaling up to 6 Arlo cameras can give you full coverage—front and back, upstairs and down, even your driveway and backyard. But getting there isn’t as simple as buying six cameras and calling it a day. There are compatibility issues, hub requirements, storage options, and even placement strategies to consider. In this guide, I’ll walk you through every step—from choosing the right cameras to setting them up, managing your system, and getting the most out of your investment—all in plain, no-nonsense language.

Understanding Arlo’s Camera Ecosystem: What You Need to Know

Before you rush to buy six Arlo cameras, it helps to understand how the system works. Arlo isn’t just a brand—it’s an ecosystem. Think of it like a puzzle: each piece (camera, hub, app, subscription) has to fit together for everything to work smoothly. If you skip a piece, the whole system can feel clunky or underperforming.

Arlo Cameras: Wired vs. Wireless Options

Arlo offers several camera models, each with different features and power needs. The most popular options for a 6-camera setup include:

• Arlo Pro 5S (wireless): 2K HDR video, color night vision, built-in spotlight, and rechargeable battery. Great for flexibility.
• Arlo Ultra 2 (wireless): 4K video, auto-zoom tracking, and a powerful siren. Best for high-traffic areas.
• Arlo Essential Wired (indoor/outdoor): 1080p video, no battery, always-on power. Ideal for permanent spots like porches or garages.
• Arlo Video Doorbell (wired or wireless): Can count as one of your six, especially if you want to monitor your front door.

For a 6-camera setup, I recommend mixing models based on your needs. For example, use two Arlo Pro 5S units for side yards (where battery life matters), two Arlo Essential Wired for the front porch and garage (always-on), and two Arlo Ultra 2s for the backyard and driveway (for 4K clarity).

The Role of the Arlo Base Station (Hub)

Most Arlo cameras (except the Essential series) require a base station (hub) to connect to your Wi-Fi. The hub acts as a bridge between your cameras and your router, offering several advantages:

• Stronger signal for outdoor cameras
• Local storage option (via USB drive)
• Faster response times and less Wi-Fi congestion

You’ll need one base station for up to 15 cameras, so one hub is enough for your 6-camera setup. However, if you’re using Arlo Essential Wired or Video Doorbells, they connect directly to Wi-Fi and don’t need the hub. This means you can mix and match: use the hub for Pro/Ultra cameras and go hub-free for Essentials. Just remember: if you want local storage or enhanced reliability, the hub is worth it.

Wi-Fi and Signal Strength: The Hidden Challenge

Six cameras mean six data streams. If your Wi-Fi is weak or congested, you might see delays, dropped connections, or grainy video. Here’s what I learned after setting up my own 6-camera system:

• Place your router and base station in a central location.
• Use a Wi-Fi extender or mesh network (like Google Nest Wifi or Eero) if your home is large or has thick walls.
• Test camera signal strength in the Arlo app before finalizing placement.

One time, I placed a camera in the backyard, only to find it kept disconnecting. After adding a mesh node, the signal jumped from 1 bar to 4—problem solved. So don’t overlook your Wi-Fi setup. It’s the backbone of your entire system.

How to Get 6 Cameras with Arlo: Step-by-Step Setup

Now that you understand the components, let’s walk through how to actually get 6 cameras with Arlo—step by step. I’ll share real-world tips I picked up from my own setup, including what worked and what I’d do differently.

Step 1: Choose Your Camera Mix (and Budget)

Your first decision is which cameras to buy. Here’s a practical example:

• Front porch: Arlo Video Doorbell (wired) – $129
• Front yard: Arlo Essential Wired – $89
• Backyard (left): Arlo Pro 5S – $199
• Backyard (right): Arlo Pro 5S – $199
• Side gate: Arlo Essential Wired – $89
• Garage: Arlo Ultra 2 – $249

Total: Around $950 (before tax and accessories). You can save by buying a bundle (more on that later), but this mix gives you a balance of quality, battery life, and reliability.

Tip: If budget is tight, start with 4 cameras and add two later. Arlo systems are modular, so you can expand anytime.

Step 2: Buy the Right Base Station (If Needed)

If you’re using any Pro or Ultra cameras, you’ll need a base station. The Arlo Pro 5S and Ultra 2 are compatible with the Arlo SmartHub (VMB5000), which supports up to 15 devices. You can buy it separately (~$100) or get it in a bundle.

I recommend the Arlo Pro 5S 2-Camera Kit with SmartHub (~$399). It includes two cameras and the hub, saving you money. Then buy four more cameras individually. This way, you get the hub at a discount.

Step 3: Plan Your Camera Placement

Before mounting anything, sketch your home and decide where each camera will go. Think about:

• Entry points: Doors, windows, garage
• High-traffic zones: Driveway, sidewalk, backyard
• Blind spots: Corners, alleys, side gates
• Power access: Wired cameras need nearby outlets or low-voltage wiring

For wireless cameras, test battery life. Arlo Pro 5S lasts 3–6 months on a charge (depending on activity). If a camera is in a high-motion area (like a front porch), you might need to charge it every 2 months. Place it where it’s easy to reach.

Step 4: Install and Sync Your Cameras

Now for the fun part—setting it all up. Here’s how:

1. Download the Arlo app (iOS or Android).
2. Create an account and log in.
3. If using a hub: plug it in, connect it to your router with an Ethernet cable, and wait for the LED to turn solid blue.
4. Press the sync button on the hub, then press the sync button on your first camera. The app will guide you through pairing.
5. Repeat for all cameras. The app will show signal strength and battery level.
6. For wired cameras (Essential or Doorbell), plug them in and follow the app’s Wi-Fi setup.

Pro tip: Label your cameras in the app (e.g., “Front Door,” “Back Left”) so you know which is which when reviewing footage.

Step 5: Optimize Settings for 6 Cameras

With six cameras, you’ll want to tweak settings to avoid overwhelming yourself:

• Motion detection: Adjust sensitivity per camera. Set the porch to high, but the backyard to medium (to avoid false alerts from leaves).
• Activity zones: Draw zones in the app to focus on areas like driveways, not trees or streets.
• Recording mode: Choose “Continuous” for critical areas (like front door), “Event-based” for others.
• Notifications: Turn off alerts for less important cameras during the day, but keep them on at night.

I made the mistake of turning on all alerts at first. My phone buzzed 20 times in an hour from a squirrel in the backyard. Lesson learned: customize, don’t just accept defaults.

Storage and Subscription Options: What’s Right for 6 Cameras?

Here’s where things get tricky. Arlo cameras record footage, but where does it go? You have two main options: cloud storage (subscription-based) and local storage (via USB drive). Let’s break it down.

Arlo Cloud Storage Plans

Arlo offers three subscription tiers:

Plan	Price/Month	Features
Arlo Secure (1 camera)	$2.99	30-day video history, AI detection (person, vehicle, package), 24/7 emergency response
Arlo Secure (Unlimited Cameras)	$12.99	Same as above, but for all cameras
Arlo Secure Plus	$17.99	Adds 4K recording, extended history (up to 60 days), and advanced AI (pet, animal)

For 6 cameras, the Unlimited Cameras plan ($12.99/month) is the sweet spot. It gives you 30-day history and smart alerts for all devices. The 4K upgrade is only worth it if you have Arlo Ultra 2 or Pro 5S cameras and want the highest quality.

Note: Without a subscription, you only get live viewing and 7 days of rolling cloud storage (limited to 3 cameras). So for full access, a plan is essential.

Local Storage: The No-Subscription Alternative

If you hate monthly fees, use local storage. The Arlo SmartHub supports USB drives (up to 2TB). Just plug in a drive, format it in the app, and your cameras will save footage locally.

• Pros: No monthly cost, full control, faster playback
• Cons: No cloud backup, drive can fail, no smart alerts (unless you pay for them)

I use local storage for my backyard cameras (low-risk areas) and cloud for the front door. It’s a hybrid approach that saves money without sacrificing security.

Hybrid Strategy: Best of Both Worlds

Want the most flexibility? Combine both:

• Use local storage for 4 cameras (backyard, garage, side gate, driveway)
• Subscribe to Arlo Secure for 2 cameras (front door, front yard)

This cuts your subscription cost in half while keeping critical areas backed up in the cloud. Just remember: if you lose your USB drive, those local recordings are gone forever.

Managing 6 Arlo Cameras: Tips for Long-Term Success

Setting up six cameras is just the beginning. The real challenge is maintaining them. Here’s how I keep my system running smoothly after a year of use.

Battery Maintenance for Wireless Cameras

Wireless cameras like the Pro 5S and Ultra 2 rely on batteries. To extend their life:

• Charge batteries when they hit 20% (not 0%)
• Use the Arlo solar panel (~$59) for one camera to reduce charging
• Turn off “Always On” mode if not needed

One of my cameras died mid-winter because I forgot to charge it. Now I set a monthly reminder in my calendar. Small effort, big payoff.

Regular System Checks

Every few months, do a quick audit:

• Check for firmware updates in the app
• Clean camera lenses (dust and rain can blur footage)
• Test motion detection by walking in front of each camera
• Review storage (delete old local videos or upgrade your cloud plan if you’re running low)

I once found a camera pointing at the sky because the mount had shifted in high winds. A 5-minute check could have saved me weeks of blind footage.

Dealing with False Alerts

Six cameras mean more motion triggers—and more false alarms. To reduce them:

• Use activity zones to ignore trees, pets, or street traffic
• Set schedules (e.g., turn off backyard alerts during the day)
• Adjust sensitivity (lower for windy areas, higher for doors)

My neighbor’s dog used to trigger my backyard camera daily. After drawing a zone that excluded the fence line, alerts dropped by 70%. Simple fix, huge improvement.

Expanding or Upgrading Later

Arlo makes it easy to add more cameras or upgrade. If you later want:

• More coverage: Add a camera anytime (the hub supports up to 15)
• Better quality: Swap an Essential for a Pro 5S
• Indoor monitoring: Add an Arlo Baby or Arlo Essential Indoor

My system started with 4 cameras. A year later, I added two more after a break-in attempt. The process took 10 minutes.

Cost, Bundles, and Where to Buy: Getting the Best Deal

Let’s talk money. A 6-camera Arlo system isn’t cheap, but you can save hundreds with smart shopping.

Buy Bundles, Not Individual Cameras

Arlo offers multi-camera kits with discounts:

• Arlo Pro 5S 2-Camera Kit + SmartHub: $399 (saves $100 vs. buying separately)
• Arlo Ultra 2 2-Camera Kit: $599 (includes 4K cameras and hub)
• Arlo Essential Wired 2-Pack: $159 (saves $20)

I bought the Pro 5S kit, then two Essential 2-packs, and one Ultra 2. Total savings: about $250.

Look for Sales and Promotions

Arlo runs sales around Black Friday, Prime Day, and holidays. In 2023, I got 20% off all cameras during a Cyber Monday event. Set price alerts on sites like CamelCamelCamel or Slickdeals.

Where to Buy: Amazon vs. Arlo.com vs. Retailers

• Amazon: Fast shipping, easy returns, frequent deals
• Arlo.com: Exclusive bundles, direct support, sometimes better prices
• Best Buy/Walmart: In-store pickup, price matching, extended warranties

I bought my hub from Arlo.com (for the bundle) and cameras from Amazon (for faster delivery). Mix and match based on availability.

Long-Term Cost: Subscription vs. Local

Over 5 years:

• Cloud (Unlimited plan): $12.99 x 60 months = $780
• Local (USB drive): $100 one-time (for 2TB drive)

If you use local storage for 3+ cameras, you’ll save $500+ in the long run. But weigh that against the convenience of cloud backups.

Final Thoughts: Is 6 Arlo Cameras Right for You?

Getting 6 cameras with Arlo isn’t just about buying gear—it’s about building a system that fits your life. I’ve had mine for over a year, and it’s saved me more than once: from catching a package thief to spotting a raccoon in my trash can (not a burglar, but still!).

The key is balance. You don’t need the most expensive cameras everywhere. Mix models, use local storage where possible, and customize settings to avoid alert fatigue. And don’t forget the basics: strong Wi-Fi, regular maintenance, and smart placement.

At the end of the day, 6 cameras give you something priceless: peace of mind. Whether you’re at work, on vacation, or just in the backyard, you’ll know your home is protected. And with Arlo’s reliability and user-friendly app, you’ll actually enjoy using it—not just tolerate it.

So go ahead. Start small if you need to, but plan for six. Your future self (and your home) will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I get 6 cameras with Arlo for my home security setup?

You can get 6 Arlo cameras by purchasing a bundle that includes multiple cameras or buying them individually. Arlo offers multi-camera kits (like the Arlo Pro 5 or Ultra 2 packs) that often include 2-4 cameras, so combining bundles or adding single cameras can help you reach 6.

Does Arlo offer a 6-camera subscription plan?

Arlo doesn’t offer a specific 6-camera subscription, but its Arlo Secure plans support multiple cameras under one account. You can subscribe to Arlo Secure Plus or Premier to cover all 6 cameras with cloud storage and AI-powered alerts.

What’s the most cost-effective way to buy 6 Arlo cameras?

The most budget-friendly option is to look for multi-packs (like a 4-pack + 2-pack) or seasonal sales on Arlo’s website or retailers like Amazon. Bundles typically offer per-camera savings compared to buying single units.

Can I mix different Arlo camera models in a 6-camera setup?

Yes, Arlo’s app allows you to mix models (e.g., Pro 5, Ultra 2, or Essential) in one system. Just ensure they’re compatible with the same base station or Wi-Fi setup for seamless monitoring.

Do I need a base station for 6 Arlo cameras?

Most Arlo cameras (except Wi-Fi-only models like Essential) require a base station or SmartHub for optimal performance. A single base station can support up to 15 cameras, making it ideal for your 6-camera setup.

How do I set up 6 Arlo cameras without Wi-Fi interference?

To avoid interference, use the Arlo app’s signal strength tool during setup and space cameras strategically. For wired options, Arlo’s PoE (Power over Ethernet) cameras can reduce wireless congestion.