How Many Arlo Cameras Can Run on One Hub A Complete Guide

Most Arlo hubs support up to 15 cameras simultaneously, making them ideal for comprehensive home security setups. Performance may vary slightly by hub model and camera type, so always check compatibility to ensure seamless integration and optimal video streaming.

Key Takeaways

• Hub capacity varies: Most Arlo hubs support up to 15 cameras, but check your model’s specs.
• Bandwidth matters: High-resolution cameras need stronger Wi-Fi to avoid hub overload.
• Wired vs. wireless: Wired connections free up hub resources for more cameras.
• SmartHubs handle more: Arlo SmartHubs optimize performance for larger setups.
• Firmware updates: Always update your hub to ensure maximum compatibility and efficiency.
• Distance impacts performance: Place cameras within 300 feet of the hub for best results.

How Many Arlo Cameras Can Run on One Hub? A Complete Guide

Imagine this: you’re setting up a home security system, excited about the sleek design and smart features of Arlo cameras. You’ve picked out the perfect spots for them—front porch, backyard, garage, and even a hidden nook in the garden. Then reality hits: how many Arlo cameras can run on one hub? It’s a question I asked myself when I first started building my own system. I wanted full coverage without breaking the bank on extra hubs or dealing with connectivity headaches.

You’re not alone if you’ve wondered the same. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or expanding an existing setup, understanding the limits and capabilities of your Arlo hub is essential. It’s not just about plugging in cameras and hoping for the best—there’s a balance of hardware, network, and smart features to consider. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how many Arlo cameras can run on one hub, from technical specs to real-world performance. We’ll explore different models, troubleshoot common issues, and share tips to get the most out of your system—without overspending or overcomplicating things.

Understanding Arlo Hubs and Their Roles

Before we dive into the number of cameras, let’s clarify what an Arlo hub actually does. Think of it as the brain of your security system. It connects your wireless cameras to your home network, manages data flow, and ensures reliable communication—especially for models that don’t connect directly to Wi-Fi.

What Does the Hub Do?

The Arlo hub serves several key functions:

• Centralized connection: It acts as a bridge between your cameras and your Wi-Fi router. Some Arlo cameras (like the Pro 3, Pro 4, Ultra, and Essential series) connect directly to Wi-Fi, but others—like the original Arlo, Arlo Pro 2, and Arlo Go—rely on the hub for connectivity.
• Data processing: The hub processes video streams, stores clips locally (if you use an SD card), and manages firmware updates.
• Power management: For battery-powered cameras, the hub helps optimize power usage and can extend battery life by reducing direct Wi-Fi strain.
• Local storage: If you’re using a local storage option (like an SD card in the hub), it stores footage without relying on cloud services—great for privacy or avoiding subscription fees.

I learned this the hard way when I tried to set up three Arlo Pro 2 cameras without a hub. One kept dropping the connection, and the app kept telling me to “reconnect the base station.” Turns out, those older models require the hub. It’s like trying to drive a manual car without a clutch—it just won’t work.

Types of Arlo Hubs and Their Compatibility

Not all hubs are created equal. Here’s a quick rundown of the main Arlo hubs and which cameras they support:

• Arlo SmartHub (for Pro 3, Pro 4, Ultra, Ultra 2, Essential): Supports up to 15 cameras. This is the most common hub for newer models. It connects via Ethernet or Wi-Fi and supports local storage.
• Arlo Base Station (for original Arlo, Pro, Pro 2): Supports up to 15 cameras. Older design, but still reliable. Uses a proprietary wireless protocol (2.4 GHz) for better range and less Wi-Fi interference.
• Arlo Go (LTE camera): Uses its own SIM card and doesn’t need a hub, but can connect to a SmartHub if you want to mix LTE and Wi-Fi cameras.
• Arlo Pro 3/4/Ultra (Wi-Fi models): Can connect directly to your router or to a SmartHub. Using the hub is optional but recommended for stability and local storage.

Here’s a tip: if you’re mixing older and newer cameras, make sure you have the right hub. For example, you can’t use the original Arlo base station with a Pro 4. But you can use a SmartHub with older Pro 2 cameras—just plug them in via Ethernet or connect them wirelessly.

Official Limits: How Many Cameras Per Hub?

Now, the big question: how many Arlo cameras can run on one hub? The short answer: up to 15 cameras per hub for most Arlo SmartHubs and base stations. But there’s more to it than just that number.

Arlo’s Stated Maximum

Arlo officially states that each SmartHub or base station can support up to 15 cameras. This applies to:

• Arlo SmartHub (models VMB4000, VMB4500, VMB5000)
• Arlo Base Station (models VMB3000, VMB3500)

That sounds straightforward, right? But here’s where it gets tricky: not all 15 will perform equally. I once pushed my SmartHub to 14 cameras (a mix of Pro 3, Essential, and a Pro 2), and while they all connected, two cameras started lagging—especially during high-motion events. Why? Because the hub has to manage data from all of them at once.

Why the 15-Camera Limit Exists

The limit isn’t arbitrary. It’s based on:

• Bandwidth: Each camera streams video data. More cameras = more data. Even with compression, 15 HD streams can max out the hub’s processing power.
• Wireless range: Cameras farther from the hub may drop frames or disconnect under load.
• Firmware overhead: The hub handles updates, motion detection, and alerts for every camera. More cameras = more background tasks.
• Storage limits: If you’re using local storage (SD card), 15 cameras recording 24/7 can fill a 128GB card in days.

Think of it like a Wi-Fi router. A router might support 20 devices, but if 15 are streaming 4K video, your internet will crawl. Same idea with the Arlo hub.

Practical Real-World Limits

Here’s the reality: while 15 is the maximum, I recommend staying under 10 for optimal performance. Here’s why:

• Motion events: If multiple cameras detect motion at once (like a storm or a passing car), the hub might delay alerts or miss frames.
• App responsiveness: The Arlo app may lag when pulling up live feeds from more than 8-10 cameras.
• Wi-Fi congestion: If your cameras connect via Wi-Fi (not the hub’s proprietary signal), they’ll compete with other devices on your network.

For example, I once had 12 cameras on one hub. During a neighborhood event, 8 triggered motion at once. The app froze for 10 seconds, and I missed part of the action. After I split them across two hubs (10 on one, 2 on another), everything ran smoothly.

Factors That Affect Camera Capacity

So, the 15-camera limit is a starting point—but your actual capacity depends on several factors. Let’s break them down.

1. Camera Resolution and Frame Rate

Higher resolution = more data. A 4K camera (like Arlo Ultra) uses 3-4x more bandwidth than a 1080p camera (like Arlo Essential). Here’s how it breaks down:

• 1080p (30 fps): ~1.5 Mbps per camera
• 2K (30 fps): ~3 Mbps per camera
• 4K (30 fps): ~6 Mbps per camera

Example: 10 x 4K cameras = 60 Mbps of data. Your hub and router need to handle that. If you’re on a 100 Mbps internet plan, that’s 60% of your bandwidth—just for cameras!

2. Motion Detection and Recording Frequency

Cameras that record constantly (like those with 24/7 recording) or have frequent motion events create more load. I noticed a big difference when I switched from “motion only” to “always record” on my backyard camera. The hub started overheating after a few hours.

3. Wireless Range and Signal Strength

The farther a camera is from the hub, the weaker the signal. Weak signals mean:

• More retries (which uses extra power and data)
• Higher chance of dropped frames or disconnections
• Increased latency (delay between motion and alert)

Tip: Place the hub centrally. Use the Arlo app’s “signal strength” tool to check each camera. If it’s below 70%, consider a Wi-Fi extender or a second hub.

4. Local vs. Cloud Storage

If you’re using an SD card in the hub, the hub handles all the writing. A 128GB card can hold about 24 hours of 1080p footage from 5 cameras. With 15 cameras? You’ll need a 1TB card (which Arlo doesn’t officially support) or frequent manual downloads.

Cloud storage offloads some work to Arlo’s servers, but you still need a strong connection. If your internet is slow, uploads may fail, and you’ll lose footage.

5. Number of Simultaneous Viewers

Are multiple people watching live feeds at once? Each viewer adds load. I once had my parents, my brother, and me all checking the cameras during a storm. The hub struggled to keep up. Now, we use “shared access” with view-only permissions to reduce strain.

Mixing Camera Models and Hubs: What Works?

Can you mix old and new Arlo cameras on one hub? Yes—but with caveats.

Compatibility by Hub

Hub Model	Compatible Cameras	Max Cameras	Notes
Arlo SmartHub (VMB4000/4500/5000)	Pro 3, Pro 4, Ultra, Ultra 2, Essential, Pro 2 (via Ethernet or wireless)	15	Best for mixed setups. Supports local storage and Wi-Fi.
Arlo Base Station (VMB3000/3500)	Original Arlo, Pro, Pro 2	15	Older design. No local storage. Uses 2.4 GHz only.
Arlo Go (LTE)	Arlo Go only (but can connect to SmartHub)	1 (per SIM)	Ideal for off-grid areas. No Wi-Fi needed.

Tips for Mixing Models

• Use a SmartHub for flexibility: It supports both Wi-Fi and hub-connected cameras. I have a Pro 2 (wired to hub), two Pro 3s (wireless), and four Essentials (Wi-Fi) all on one SmartHub. Works great.
• Prioritize newer cameras: They’re more efficient. Older models (like original Arlo) use more power and bandwidth.
• Check firmware: Make sure all cameras are updated. I once had a Pro 2 that kept disconnecting because it was on outdated firmware.
• Balance the load: Don’t put all high-resolution cameras on one hub. Mix 4K with 1080p to reduce strain.

One thing to watch: if you have both Wi-Fi and hub-connected cameras, the hub still manages all of them. The Wi-Fi cameras just use your router for internet, not the hub’s wireless signal.

Optimizing Your Setup for Best Performance

Want to run more cameras without issues? Here’s how to optimize your system.

1. Use a Dedicated Network (VLAN or Guest Network)

Put your Arlo cameras on a separate network. This keeps them from competing with your phone, laptop, or smart TV for bandwidth. I set up a VLAN on my router—now my cameras have their own “lane” on the internet highway.

2. Upgrade Your Internet Plan

If you have 10+ cameras, consider a 300 Mbps or higher plan. Upload speed matters more than download for cameras. I upgraded to 500 Mbps after noticing slow uploads during storms.

3. Use a Wi-Fi Extender or Mesh Network

For large homes, a mesh system (like Eero or Google Nest) ensures strong signal everywhere. I added a mesh node in my backyard, and my garden camera’s signal jumped from 40% to 90%.

4. Schedule Recordings and Adjust Sensitivity

Don’t record 24/7 unless you need to. Use schedules (e.g., 6 PM–6 AM) and lower motion sensitivity for less important areas. My garage camera now only records at night—saves bandwidth and storage.

5. Monitor Hub Temperature

Hubs can overheat if overloaded. I placed mine on a cooling pad and added a small fan. No more “hub offline” alerts during summer.

6. Use Multiple Hubs Strategically

For 15+ cameras, use two hubs. Place one upstairs and one downstairs, or split indoor/outdoor. I have 8 cameras on my main hub and 5 on a second (in the garage). Alerts come through faster, and the app never freezes.

When to Consider a Second Hub (or Upgrade)

How do you know when to add a second hub? Look for these signs:

• Cameras frequently disconnect or lag
• The hub feels hot to the touch
• The Arlo app is slow to load live feeds
• Motion alerts are delayed by 5+ seconds
• You have more than 10 high-resolution (2K/4K) cameras

I hit this point when I added four 4K cameras. One hub just couldn’t handle it. Now, I use two SmartHubs: one for the main house, one for the backyard and shed. It cost a bit more upfront, but it’s worth it for peace of mind.

Upgrading to a newer hub (like the VMB5000) can also help. It has better processing power and supports faster Wi-Fi (Wi-Fi 5 vs. Wi-Fi 4 on older models).

Final Thoughts: Balancing Capacity and Performance

So, how many Arlo cameras can run on one hub? Technically, up to 15. But practically, 8–10 cameras is the sweet spot for most homes. It gives you enough coverage without overloading the hub or your network.

Remember, it’s not just about the number—it’s about how you use them. Mixing resolutions, managing motion settings, and optimizing your network can make a huge difference. I’ve seen setups with 12 cameras run perfectly because the owner planned it carefully. I’ve also seen 8-camera setups fail due to poor placement or slow internet.

Start small, test your system, and scale up as needed. Don’t feel pressured to hit the 15-camera limit. A well-optimized 8-camera system is better than a laggy 15-camera one. And if you do need more, adding a second hub is a smart, long-term solution.

At the end of the day, your Arlo system should make you feel safer—not stressed about tech issues. With the right setup, it can. Happy monitoring!

Frequently Asked Questions

How many Arlo cameras can run on one hub?

The number of Arlo cameras supported per hub depends on the model. Most Arlo Pro and Ultra hubs support up to 15 cameras, while older base stations may handle 5–10 devices. Always check your specific hub’s manual for exact limits.

Can I connect multiple Arlo cameras to one base station?

Yes, you can connect multiple Arlo cameras to one base station, typically up to 15 for newer models like the Arlo Pro 3/4/Ultra. Older base stations may have lower limits (e.g., 5–10 cameras). Performance remains stable if the hub’s capacity isn’t exceeded.

Does adding more Arlo cameras to one hub slow it down?

Generally, no—adding more Arlo cameras to one hub won’t slow performance if you stay within the hub’s maximum capacity. However, bandwidth-heavy features like 4K streaming may impact network speed if many cameras are active simultaneously.

How many Arlo Ultra cameras can run on one hub?

One Arlo SmartHub or base station can support up to 15 Arlo Ultra cameras. Since Ultra models are bandwidth-intensive, ensure your Wi-Fi network and internet speed can handle the load for optimal performance.

Can I mix different Arlo camera models on the same hub?

Yes, most Arlo hubs support mixing camera models (e.g., Pro 4, Ultra, and Essential). Just ensure all cameras are compatible with the hub’s firmware, and stay within the total camera limit (usually 15).

Do I need a separate hub for each Arlo camera?

No, a single Arlo hub can manage multiple cameras—up to 15 for most modern models. A separate hub is only needed if you exceed the camera limit or require isolated systems for different locations.