How Many Camera Can You Hook Up to the Arlo A Complete Guide

The Arlo system supports up to 25 cameras per base station, making it ideal for both small homes and large properties needing comprehensive coverage. Exact capacity depends on your Arlo plan and model, with higher-tier subscriptions unlocking more camera slots and advanced features like 4K streaming and extended cloud storage.

Key Takeaways

• Max 15 cameras: Arlo supports up to 15 cameras per hub for seamless monitoring.
• Plan matters: Subscription plans determine camera limits and features like cloud storage.
• Wi-Fi impact: Strong Wi-Fi ensures stable connections for multiple cameras.
• Mix models: Combine Arlo camera models but check compatibility with your hub.
• Local storage: Use microSD cards to reduce reliance on cloud storage limits.
• Expand gradually: Start small and scale up to avoid system overload.

How Many Camera Can You Hook Up to the Arlo? A Complete Guide

Imagine you’re setting up a security system for your home. You’ve got your front door, backyard, side gates, and maybe even a garage. You want to keep an eye on all these areas, but you’re not sure if your Arlo system can handle it all. I’ve been there—standing in the middle of my backyard, camera in hand, wondering, *How many camera can you hook up to the Arlo?* It’s a question that pops up more often than you’d think, and honestly, it’s one of the first things you should figure out before diving into a full-scale setup.

The good news is, Arlo is designed with flexibility in mind. Whether you’re protecting a cozy apartment or a sprawling property, Arlo has options for you. But the answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. The number of cameras you can connect depends on your specific Arlo base station, subscription plan, and how you plan to use them. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know—no fluff, just real talk from someone who’s set up (and occasionally messed up) their own Arlo system. By the end, you’ll know exactly how many cameras you can add, how to make the most of them, and what to watch out for along the way.

Understanding Your Arlo Base Station and Hub Limits

What Is an Arlo Base Station or Hub?

Before we dive into numbers, let’s get clear on what’s actually managing your cameras. The Arlo base station (or smart hub, depending on your model) acts like the brain of your system. It connects your cameras to your home Wi-Fi, stores footage if you have a local option, and manages communication between all your devices. Think of it as the central nervous system—without it, your cameras are just fancy paperweights.

Different Arlo models come with different base stations. For example, the Arlo Pro 3 and Pro 4 use the Arlo SmartHub, while older models like the Arlo Pro 2 use the original base station. The newer hubs tend to be more powerful, supporting more devices and offering better local storage options.

How Many Cameras Can Each Hub Support?

This is where things get specific. The number of cameras you can connect depends heavily on which hub you’re using:

• Original Arlo Base Station (VMB3000/VMB4000): Supports up to 5 cameras. This is the older model, and if you’re still using it, you’re limited to a small setup—perfect for an apartment or small house with a few key entry points.
• Arlo SmartHub (VMB4540/VMB5000): Supports up to 15 cameras. This is a big jump and ideal for medium to large homes. I used this one when I upgraded from 5 to 10 cameras, and it handled the load smoothly.
• Arlo Pro 3/4 and Ultra SmartHub: Also supports up to 15 cameras. Same capacity as the VMB4540, but with better firmware and integration with newer features like 4K streaming and color night vision.
• Arlo Base Station with Wi-Fi (VMB5000): Supports up to 15 cameras and includes built-in Wi-Fi, so you don’t need to run an Ethernet cable. A solid choice if you want flexibility in placement.

Here’s a quick tip: If you’re planning to expand in the future, go with a SmartHub even if you only need 5 cameras now. It’s easier (and cheaper) to buy the right hub upfront than to replace it later.

Can You Use Multiple Hubs?

Yes—and this is a game-changer for large properties. You can run multiple Arlo hubs on the same account. For example, I know a family with a 5,000-square-foot home and a detached garage. They use two SmartHubs: one for the main house (10 cameras) and one for the garage and yard (5 cameras). Both hubs sync to the same Arlo app, so they see everything in one place.

Just remember: each hub needs its own power and internet connection. And while you can manage them together, they’re technically separate systems. So if one hub loses power, only those cameras go offline.

Subscription Plans and Cloud Storage Limits

Free vs. Paid Arlo Plans

Even if your hub can support 15 cameras, your subscription plan might cap how many you can actually use. Arlo offers a free plan and several paid tiers, and the number of cameras you can monitor in the cloud depends on which one you choose.

The free Arlo plan allows:

• Up to 5 cameras with 7-day cloud storage
• 3-second video clips (no longer recordings)
• Basic motion alerts

That’s fine if you’re just testing the waters, but most people quickly outgrow it. For example, when I added my 6th camera, I hit the free limit. The app stopped sending alerts for the new camera—no warning, just silence. I didn’t even realize until a package got stolen. Lesson learned.

Paid Plans and Camera Limits

Here’s how the paid plans break down:

• Arlo Secure (Single Plan): Covers 1 camera. $2.99/month. Great for renters or small setups.
• Arlo Secure (Multi-Camera): Covers up to 5 cameras. $9.99/month. Ideal for most homes.
• Arlo Secure (Unlimited): Covers unlimited cameras. $14.99/month. This is the sweet spot for anyone with more than 5 cameras.
• Arlo Secure Plus: Includes everything in Secure, plus 24/7 emergency response and advanced AI detection. Also unlimited cameras. $19.99/month.

So, while your hub might support 15 cameras, you’ll need the Unlimited plan to use more than 5 in the cloud. Without it, those extra cameras will record locally (if you have a microSD card) but won’t send alerts or save videos to the cloud.

Local vs. Cloud Storage: A Balanced Approach

Here’s a pro tip: You don’t have to put every camera on the cloud. I use a hybrid approach. My front door and backyard cameras are on the cloud (high priority), but my side gate and garage are set to record locally. That way, I keep my subscription costs down and still have footage if something happens.

To do this, insert a microSD card (up to 2TB) into your SmartHub. Each camera can be configured individually—some cloud, some local. Just keep in mind that local footage won’t trigger push notifications unless you set up motion zones and alerts through the app.

Wi-Fi and Network Bandwidth Considerations

How Cameras Use Your Network

Every Arlo camera streams data to your hub and then to the cloud (or your phone). Even if you’re using local storage, cameras still send metadata—like motion alerts and thumbnails—over Wi-Fi. The more cameras you add, the more strain on your network.

I learned this the hard way. When I first added 10 cameras, my Wi-Fi started lagging. My smart TV would buffer during movies, and my work video calls kept freezing. Turns out, my old router couldn’t handle the constant video streams.

Bandwidth Requirements per Camera

Here’s a rough estimate of how much bandwidth each Arlo camera uses:

• Arlo Essential (1080p): ~0.8 Mbps per camera during streaming
• Arlo Pro 3/4 (2K): ~1.2 Mbps
• Arlo Ultra (4K): ~2.5 Mbps

For example, 10 Pro 3 cameras streaming 24/7 would use about 12 Mbps of upload bandwidth. That’s significant, especially if you’re on a 50 Mbps plan. But here’s the good news: most cameras aren’t streaming all the time. They record in short bursts when motion is detected.

Tips to Optimize Network Performance

Here’s how to keep your network running smoothly, no matter how many cameras you have:

• Use a dedicated 2.4 GHz network: Arlo cameras only work on 2.4 GHz, not 5 GHz. Create a separate Wi-Fi network just for your cameras to reduce interference with your main devices.
• Upgrade your router: If you’re running 10+ cameras, invest in a modern router with strong 2.4 GHz coverage. Mesh systems (like Google Nest or Eero) help extend signal to outdoor areas.
• Position your hub centrally: Place your SmartHub in a central location, ideally close to your router. This reduces the distance cameras need to transmit, improving reliability.
• Adjust motion zones: Limit detection to specific areas (like driveways) to reduce false alerts and unnecessary recordings.
• Use lower resolution for less important cameras: Set side-yard or backyard cameras to 1080p instead of 2K to save bandwidth.

I once had a camera in my backyard that kept disconnecting. After moving the SmartHub closer to the center of the house and switching to a mesh system, the signal stabilized. Small changes, big difference.

Real-World Examples: Setting Up 5, 10, and 15 Cameras

Case 1: The 5-Camera Apartment Setup

Let’s say you live in a 2-bedroom apartment. You want coverage for:

• Front door
• Back balcony
• Living room (for package deliveries)
• Hallway
• Garage (if you have a private entrance)

You’d use an Arlo SmartHub (supports 15 cameras) but only connect 5. With the Multi-Camera plan ($9.99/month), all 5 get cloud storage and alerts. Since it’s a small space, Wi-Fi coverage is usually strong. I’ve helped friends set this up, and it works flawlessly—especially with Arlo’s easy app-based setup.

Case 2: The 10-Camera Suburban Home

This is my setup. A 3,000-square-foot home with:

• Front door (2 cameras: wide and close-up)
• Backyard (2 cameras: one facing the pool, one the shed)
• Side gates (2 cameras)
• Garage (2 cameras: one outside, one inside)
• Driveway (2 cameras: one at the start, one at the end)

I use a SmartHub and the Unlimited plan. My router is a TP-Link Deco mesh system, so coverage is solid. I’ve set motion zones to ignore passing cars and squirrels (which used to trigger 20 alerts a day). Now, I get about 3–5 alerts daily—mostly packages or visitors. The system handles the load without a hiccup.

Case 3: The 15-Camera Large Property

Think a 5,000+ square foot home with a detached guest house, pool, and large yard. You might use:

• Main house: 8 cameras (doors, windows, driveway)
• Guest house: 3 cameras (entrance, windows)
• Pool area: 2 cameras (for safety)
• Front gate and long driveway: 2 cameras (to see who’s coming)

This setup requires a SmartHub and the Unlimited plan. I recommend using a mesh Wi-Fi system with outdoor access points. Also, consider using Arlo Solar Panels for outdoor cameras to reduce battery changes.

One thing to watch: if you’re using 15 cameras, you’ll need to manage storage carefully. Even with local SD cards, reviewing footage can get overwhelming. Use the app’s “Activity Zones” and “Person Detection” to filter what matters.

Future-Proofing Your Arlo System

Planning for Expansion

Arlo systems are modular, so you can always add more cameras later. But plan ahead. If you’re in a growing home (maybe you’ll add a shed or pool house), buy a SmartHub now—even if you only need 5 cameras. It saves the hassle of replacing it later.

Also, consider how you’ll power new cameras. Arlo offers:

• Battery-powered cameras (easy install, but need charging)
• Wired options (Pro 3/4 with power adapters)
• Solar panels (great for outdoor cameras)

I wish I’d thought about power earlier. I added a backyard camera last year and realized there was no outdoor outlet. I ended up using a solar panel, which works great—but it would’ve been easier to plan for it from the start.

Integrating with Other Arlo Devices

Arlo isn’t just cameras. You can add:

• Arlo Doorbell: Syncs with your cameras for full coverage.
• Arlo Smart Lights: Turn on when motion is detected.
• Arlo Baby Monitor: For nurseries or pets.

These devices connect to the same hub and app, so they count toward your total device limit. But they don’t take up camera slots. For example, you can have 15 cameras and 5 smart lights on one hub.

When to Consider a Second Hub

If you hit 15 cameras and want more, a second SmartHub is your best bet. It’s cheaper than buying a whole new system. Just make sure your Wi-Fi can support both hubs. I know a business owner who uses three hubs for 40+ cameras across multiple buildings. It’s scalable, but requires strong network planning.

Data Table: Arlo Hub and Plan Comparison

Hub/Model	Max Cameras	Local Storage	Wi-Fi Built-in?	Best For
VMB3000 (Original)	5	No	No	Small homes, apartments
VMB4000 (Original+)	5	Yes (microSD)	No	Budget setups with local storage
VMB4540 (SmartHub)	15	Yes (microSD)	No	Medium to large homes
VMB5000 (SmartHub Wi-Fi)	15	Yes (microSD)	Yes	Flexible placement, no Ethernet

Plan	Max Cameras	Cloud Storage	Cost/Month	Best For
Free	5	7 days (3-sec clips)	$0	Trial, small setups
Secure (Single)	1	30 days (full video)	$2.99	Renters, single camera
Secure (Multi)	5	30 days (full video)	$9.99	Most homes
Secure (Unlimited)	Unlimited	30 days (full video)	$14.99	Large homes, 6+ cameras
Secure Plus	Unlimited	30 days + emergency response	$19.99	High-security needs

Final Thoughts: How Many Is Right for You?

So, how many camera can you hook up to the Arlo? The answer is: it depends. Your hub, your plan, and your network all play a role. But here’s the bottom line:

• Most people can start with 5–10 cameras and scale up.
• A SmartHub supports up to 15 cameras—perfect for growing needs.
• The Unlimited plan unlocks full functionality for 6+ cameras.
• Wi-Fi and power planning are just as important as the number of cameras.

I’ve seen setups from 1 camera to 30+ across multiple hubs. The beauty of Arlo is that it’s flexible. You’re not locked in. Start small, learn what works, and expand as needed. And remember: more cameras don’t always mean better security. It’s about smart placement and thoughtful configuration.

Whether you’re protecting your home, keeping an eye on pets, or just want peace of mind, Arlo can scale with you. Just take it step by step. And if you ever feel overwhelmed? That’s normal. I’ve been there. But with the right hub, plan, and a little patience, you’ll build a system that works—no matter how many cameras you end up with.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many cameras can you hook up to the Arlo system?

The number of cameras you can connect to an Arlo system depends on the base station or hub model. Most Arlo setups support up to 15–25 cameras, with newer models like the Arlo SmartHub allowing higher capacities.

Can I add more than 5 cameras to my Arlo base station?

Yes, many Arlo base stations support more than 5 cameras. For example, the Arlo Pro 4 and Ultra systems can handle up to 15–25 cameras, depending on the hub and subscription plan.

Is there a limit to how many Arlo cameras you can have on one account?

Arlo accounts can manage multiple locations, each with its own camera limit (typically 15–25 per hub). While there’s no strict account-wide cap, performance may vary with excessive camera loads.

Do Arlo cameras require a subscription to add more than a certain number?

No, you can add cameras without a subscription, but Arlo’s cloud storage and advanced features (like AI detection) require a plan. The physical limit depends on your hub, not the subscription.

How many cameras can you hook up to the Arlo SmartHub?

The Arlo SmartHub supports up to 25 cameras, making it ideal for large properties or multi-camera setups. This includes mixed models like Pro, Ultra, and Essential series.

Can I mix different Arlo camera models in one system?

Yes, Arlo allows mixing camera models (e.g., Pro, Ultra, and Essential) on the same hub, as long as they’re compatible. The total number still adheres to the hub’s camera limit.