How Do I Tell Which Arlo Camera I Have A Quick Guide

Identify your Arlo camera instantly by checking the model number on the device or in the Arlo app’s device settings. This quick guide walks you through decoding labels, firmware details, and physical features to distinguish between Arlo Pro, Ultra, Essential, and other models. No guesswork—just clear, actionable steps to confirm your camera’s identity.

Key Takeaways

• Check the model number: Locate it on the camera or packaging for exact identification.
• Use the Arlo app: View device details under “My Devices” for model and version.
• Compare physical features: Note lens shape, size, and color to differentiate models.
• Review purchase records: Find model info in receipts or order confirmations.
• Consult Arlo’s support site: Use their database to match model numbers or images.

How to Identify Your Arlo Camera Model: A Quick Guide

So, you’ve got an Arlo camera—maybe it’s sitting on your bookshelf, tucked into a corner, or mounted outside your front door. It’s sleek, it’s smart, and it’s been faithfully recording your home’s comings and goings. But now, you need to know: how do I tell which Arlo camera I have? Maybe you’re trying to troubleshoot an issue, replace a battery, or upgrade to a newer model. Or perhaps you’ve inherited a camera from a friend and want to make sure it’s compatible with your setup. Whatever the reason, identifying your Arlo model is the first step to getting the most out of your device.

Don’t worry—this isn’t one of those frustrating “it’s somewhere in the manual” situations. Arlo has released quite a few models over the years, and while they all look somewhat similar, there are clear, easy-to-spot differences. In this guide, I’ll walk you through several simple, practical ways to identify your Arlo camera. Whether you’re tech-savvy or just starting out, you’ll find a method that works for you. Think of this as a friendly chat between two people who’ve both spent too much time squinting at tiny labels and scrolling through app settings. By the end, you’ll know exactly which Arlo you’re working with—no guessing required.

1. Check the Physical Camera for Model Labels and Markings

Look for the Model Number on the Bottom or Back

The easiest and most reliable way to identify your Arlo camera is by checking its physical body. Most Arlo cameras have a model number printed directly on them. You’ll usually find this on the bottom of the camera or on the back panel, near the mounting point or battery compartment. The label is often small, but it’s there—and it’s your golden ticket to knowing exactly what you have.

For example, if you see a label that says “VMC4030,” you’re looking at an Arlo Pro. If it’s “VMC4040,” that’s an Arlo Pro 2. The “VMC” prefix stands for “Video Motion Camera,” which is Arlo’s internal naming convention. Here are a few common examples:

• VMC3030 – Arlo (Original)
• VMC4030 – Arlo Pro
• VMC4040 – Arlo Pro 2
• VMC5040 – Arlo Pro 3
• VMC8040 – Arlo Pro 4
• VMK5010 – Arlo Essential Spotlight (wired)
• VMK5020 – Arlo Essential Spotlight (wire-free)

One thing to note: some newer models, like the Arlo Essential line, have slightly different naming. They might not start with “VMC,” but the model number is still printed clearly. For instance, the Arlo Essential Indoor Camera is labeled “AIC2010.” So even if it doesn’t follow the older pattern, the number is still there.

Inspect the Design and Color Clues

If the label is worn off (hey, it happens—especially with outdoor cameras that have been through a few seasons), don’t panic. You can still use the camera’s design and color to help narrow things down. Arlo has changed the look of its cameras over the years, and each generation has subtle but noticeable differences.

• Original Arlo (2014–2016): Small, cylindrical, with a glossy white finish. The lens is centered, and the body is all one color. It has a magnetic base and is fully wireless.
• Arlo Pro (2016): Larger, more angular. The lens is offset to the left, and the body is white with a black front panel. It has a built-in siren and magnetic base.
• Arlo Pro 2 (2017): Same shape as Pro, but slightly thicker. The front has a matte finish, and the siren is more prominent. It supports 1080p HDR.
• Arlo Pro 3 (2019): More modern design with a black-and-white contrast. The lens is larger, and the camera has a built-in spotlight and color night vision. The body is slightly wider.
• Arlo Pro 4 (2020): Similar to Pro 3, but with a sleeker profile. It has a 2K sensor and a magnetic base that’s more robust. The front is all black with a white ring around the lens.
• Arlo Essential Series (2021–2023): Compact, cylindrical, and often comes in white or black. The spotlight is integrated into the lens housing, and the base is smaller. These are designed to be budget-friendly and easy to install.

Here’s a real-life example: my neighbor had an old Arlo camera that had lost its label. It was white, had a magnetic base, and the lens was on the left. Based on the design, I guessed it was a Pro—and when I asked him to check the box (which he still had), it confirmed it was a VMC4030. So design clues are surprisingly helpful!

2. Use the Arlo App to Find Your Camera Model

Navigate to the Device Settings in the App

If your camera is still connected and working, the Arlo app is one of the fastest ways to identify it. Open the app on your phone or tablet, log in, and tap on the camera you want to check. Then, tap the gear icon (settings) in the top right corner. Scroll down, and you’ll see a section called “Device Info” or “About Device.”

Here, you’ll find:

• Device Name (e.g., “Front Door Cam”)
• Model Number (e.g., VMC5040)
• Firmware Version
• Serial Number

The model number listed here is the official one, pulled directly from Arlo’s database. It’s 100% accurate—no guessing. I’ve used this method dozens of times, especially when I’ve forgotten which camera was which after a big installation day.

Check the “Cameras” Tab for Model Icons

Another handy trick: the Arlo app displays small icons or model names next to each camera in the main “Cameras” tab. While it might just say “Arlo Pro” or “Arlo Essential,” that’s often enough to get you started. If you tap the camera, you can go to settings for the full model number.

For example, if you see “Arlo Pro 3” with a 2K badge, you know it’s the Pro 3. If it says “Arlo Essential” with a spotlight icon, that’s your clue. The app also shows whether the camera is wired, wire-free, or has a spotlight—features that vary by model.

Pro tip: if you’re managing multiple cameras (like a full home setup), use the “Rename” feature to label each one clearly. I once had four cameras and kept mixing them up—renaming them “Backyard Pro 3,” “Garage Essential,” etc., saved me so much confusion later.

3. Look at the Packaging or Original Box

Check the Side Panel or Bottom of the Box

Remember that box your Arlo camera came in? If you still have it (and many of us do, tucked in a closet or garage), it’s a goldmine of information. Most Arlo boxes have the model number and name printed on the side or bottom. It’s usually in large, easy-to-read text, often with a QR code or barcode.

For example, the box for an Arlo Pro 2 will clearly say “Arlo Pro 2 – 2 Camera Kit” along with “Model: VMC4040.” Even if you’ve thrown away the manual or lost the receipt, the box often has everything you need.

I once helped a friend identify an old Arlo camera by pulling the box out of his attic. He thought it was a basic model, but the box confirmed it was a Pro 3 with spotlight—meaning it had features he wasn’t even using! That’s the power of the box.

Review the Manual or Quick Start Guide

If you kept the user manual or quick start guide, flip through it. The front page or inside cover almost always lists the model number and name. Even better: manuals often include comparison charts showing differences between models, which can help if you’re unsure.

For example, the Pro 3 manual includes a section titled “What’s New vs. Arlo Pro 2,” which highlights features like color night vision and 2K video. If you’re trying to decide whether to upgrade, this kind of info is super helpful.

4. Compare Features and Capabilities

Video Resolution and Night Vision Type

If you don’t have access to the label, app, or box, you can still identify your camera by comparing its features to known specs. Here’s how:

• Original Arlo (VMC3030): 720p video, black-and-white night vision (infrared), no spotlight.
• Arlo Pro (VMC4030): 720p, IR night vision, built-in siren, magnetic base.
• Arlo Pro 2 (VMC4040): 1080p, IR night vision, siren, supports 1080p HDR (on select plans).
• Arlo Pro 3 (VMC5040): 2K video, color night vision (with spotlight), built-in spotlight, siren, magnetic base.
• Arlo Pro 4 (VMC8040): 2K, color night vision, spotlight, improved motion detection, magnetic base.
• Arlo Essential (VMK5010/5020): 1080p, IR night vision (wired) or color night vision (wire-free), spotlight, no siren.
• Arlo Ultra (VMC8045): 4K video, color night vision, spotlight, siren, magnetic base.

So if your camera records in 2K and shows full-color video at night (even in low light), it’s likely a Pro 3, Pro 4, or Ultra. If it only shows black-and-white at night, it’s probably an original, Pro, or Pro 2.

Battery and Power Options

Another clue: how the camera is powered.

• Cameras with removable rechargeable batteries (like Pro, Pro 2, Pro 3, Pro 4) are usually the higher-end models.
• Cameras that are wired only (like the Essential Indoor or wired Essential Spotlight) don’t have batteries at all.
• Cameras that can be plugged in or run on battery (like Pro 3 and Pro 4) often have a USB-C port on the back.

For example, if your camera has a battery compartment on the back and you charge it every few months, it’s likely a Pro series. If it’s plugged into an outlet and never needs charging, it might be an Essential or Ultra with a power adapter.

5. Use Third-Party Tools and Online Resources

Search the Serial Number Online

If you’re still stuck, try this: locate the serial number (usually on the camera or in the app), then search it online. Go to Google and type: “serial number” + “Arlo camera”. You’ll often find forum posts, support threads, or even eBay listings that identify the model based on the serial.

For example, I once had a camera with a damaged label. I searched “Arlo serial number C12345678,” and within seconds, found a Reddit thread where someone had the exact same number—and confirmed it was a Pro 2. It works surprisingly well!

Use Arlo’s Support Website or Community Forums

Arlo’s official support site has a model comparison tool. Go to support.arlo.com, then search “compare Arlo models” or “identify my Arlo camera.” You can upload a photo or answer a few questions (like resolution, color night vision, etc.), and it’ll suggest the model.

The Arlo Community Forum is also a great resource. Post a photo of your camera (especially the label or back panel), and other users will help you ID it. The community is active and friendly—I’ve had responses within hours.

Bonus: if you’re thinking of upgrading, the forums are full of real user reviews comparing models. For example, many Pro 2 owners say the Pro 3’s color night vision is a game-changer for spotting intruders at night.

6. Create Your Own Arlo Camera Identification Cheat Sheet

Make a Quick Reference Table

To avoid this confusion in the future, I recommend creating a personal cheat sheet of your Arlo cameras. Here’s a simple table you can print or save on your phone:

Camera Name	Model Number	Resolution	Night Vision	Spotlight	Siren	Power
Arlo Pro	VMC4030	720p	IR (B/W)	No	Yes	Battery
Arlo Pro 2	VMC4040	1080p	IR (B/W)	No	Yes	Battery
Arlo Pro 3	VMC5040	2K	Color	Yes	Yes	Battery/USB
Arlo Pro 4	VMC8040	2K	Color	Yes	Yes	Battery/USB
Arlo Essential	VMK5020	1080p	Color	Yes	No	Battery
Arlo Ultra	VMC8045	4K	Color	Yes	Yes	Battery/USB

Print this out and tape it to the back of your router or save it in your notes app. Every time you add a new camera, update the table. It’s a small step, but it saves so much time later.

Label Your Cameras (Literally!)

For a more hands-on approach, use a permanent marker or label maker to write the model number and name on the camera itself. I use small white stickers with black text—they’re discreet but readable. Just don’t cover the lens or sensors!

Or, if you’re techy, create a custom name in the Arlo app like “Front Door – Pro 3” or “Backyard – Essential.” That way, you’ll always know which is which, even if you have ten cameras.

Final Thoughts: Why Knowing Your Arlo Model Matters

So, how do I tell which Arlo camera I have? Now you know—and it’s easier than you thought. Whether you check the label, use the app, compare features, or dig up the box, there’s a method that fits your situation. And once you know your model, you can do so much more: find the right replacement battery, enable advanced features, or even decide if it’s time to upgrade.

Here’s the thing: your Arlo camera is more than just a gadget. It’s part of your home security, your peace of mind, and your daily life. Knowing which model you have means you can use it to its fullest—no more guessing, no more frustration. You’ll troubleshoot faster, shop smarter, and maybe even discover features you didn’t know existed.

Next time you’re standing in front of your camera, squinting at a tiny label, just smile. You’ve got this. And if you ever forget? Just come back to this guide. I’ve been there, done that, and I’m happy to help. After all, we’re all in this together—one Arlo camera at a time.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I tell which Arlo camera I have by looking at the model number?

Check the label on the back or bottom of your Arlo camera—the model number (e.g., VMC4030 for Arlo Pro 3) is printed there. You can also find it in the Arlo app under Settings > Device Info.

What’s the easiest way to identify my Arlo camera model in the app?

Open the Arlo app, tap Settings > My Devices, and select your camera. The device details screen will display the model name and number, helping you confirm which Arlo camera you have.

How do I tell which Arlo camera I have based on physical features?

Compare design details like lens shape, color, and mounting style. For example, Arlo Ultra has a square lens housing with a spotlight, while Arlo Pro 2 has a rounded lens and no spotlight.

Can I identify my Arlo camera using the serial number?

Yes, the serial number (found on the device or packaging) can be entered into Arlo’s support site or customer service to verify the exact model and warranty status.

How do I tell which Arlo camera I have if the label is missing?

Use the Arlo app’s device info section or check your purchase email/receipt, which often lists the model. Alternatively, contact Arlo support with your camera’s MAC address for assistance.

Do older Arlo cameras have different ways to identify them?

Yes, older models like the original Arlo (VMC3030) lack QR codes but have model numbers on the back. Newer models often include scannable QR codes in the app for instant identification.