How Many Camera Does a Arlo Pro 4 Camera System Include

The Arlo Pro 4 camera system typically includes one to four cameras, depending on the package you choose. Whether you’re securing a small home or a larger property, Arlo offers flexible bundle options—ranging from single-camera starter kits to comprehensive 4-camera setups—all delivering 2K HDR video, color night vision, and wire-free installation for maximum convenience.

Key Takeaways

• Arlo Pro 4 systems start with 1 camera—expandable up to 4 per hub for flexible coverage.
• Each camera is wire-free—easy DIY installation without complex wiring or drilling.
• 2K HDR video included—delivers sharp, detailed footage day and night.
• No subscription needed for basics—local storage and live viewing work out of the box.
• Add more cameras anytime—scale your system as security needs grow.

How Many Cameras Does an Arlo Pro 4 Camera System Include?

Let’s be real—shopping for a home security system can feel like trying to assemble IKEA furniture without the manual. You’re bombarded with options, technical jargon, and marketing claims that make your head spin. One question that kept popping up when I was researching for my own setup was: How many cameras does an Arlo Pro 4 camera system include? It seems simple enough, but the answer isn’t always clear. I remember scrolling through Arlo’s website, squinting at product images, and still feeling confused. Was I buying just one camera or a bundle? Could I add more later? And more importantly—would it actually cover my entire property?

After weeks of testing, reading reviews, and even setting up a mock version in my backyard (yes, I’m that person), I finally cracked the code. The Arlo Pro 4 isn’t a one-size-fits-all package. It’s more like a modular system where you can start small and grow as needed. Whether you live in a cozy one-bedroom apartment or a sprawling suburban house with a pool and a detached garage, understanding how many cameras come in a standard Arlo Pro 4 kit—and how to customize it—can save you time, money, and a lot of frustration. In this post, I’ll break down everything you need to know, from what’s in the box to how to scale your system, all while keeping things simple and relatable. No fluff, no hype—just real talk from someone who’s been there.

What’s in the Box: The Standard Arlo Pro 4 Camera System

When you first unbox an Arlo Pro 4 camera system, it’s easy to get excited. The sleek, weatherproof design, the promise of 2K HDR video, and the fact that it’s wire-free (no more drilling holes in your walls!) all feel like a win. But the big question remains: how many cameras are actually included? Let’s cut to the chase.

Default Bundle: One, Two, or Three Cameras?

Arlo sells the Pro 4 in multiple configurations, but the most common starter kits come with either one, two, or three cameras. Here’s the breakdown:

• 1-camera kit: Ideal for apartments, small homes, or renters who need basic coverage (e.g., front door or backyard).
• 2-camera kit: The sweet spot for many homeowners. Think front porch and backyard, or living room and garage.
• 3-camera kit: Great for larger homes or those wanting 360° coverage (e.g., front, back, and side of the house).

For example, I started with the 2-camera kit. My front door was the obvious first spot, but my backyard had a detached shed and a side gate—both vulnerable spots. Two cameras gave me peace of mind without overcomplicating things. But here’s the catch: Arlo doesn’t include a base station in all kits. Wait, what?

Base Station: The Hidden (and Critical) Component

Most kits include a SmartHub (Arlo’s base station), but some single-camera bundles skip it. Why? The SmartHub acts as the brain of your system. It connects your cameras to the internet, stores local footage, and supports features like 2K streaming and AI-powered alerts. Without it, your Pro 4 cameras can still work via Wi-Fi, but you’ll miss out on:

• Local storage: Save clips directly to a microSD card (up to 2TB)—no subscription needed.
• Extended range: The SmartHub boosts signal strength, which matters if your cameras are far from your router.
• Fewer Wi-Fi headaches: Cameras connect to the hub, not your main router, reducing network congestion.

Pro tip: Always check the product description. If it’s a “camera-only” bundle, you might already own a SmartHub (e.g., from an older Arlo system). Otherwise, you’ll need to buy one separately. I learned this the hard way when my first kit arrived with just a camera—cue a frantic Amazon order for the hub!

Can You Add More Cameras Later? The Modular Design Explained

One of the best things about the Arlo Pro 4 is its modular design. Unlike some systems that force you to buy fixed bundles, Arlo lets you start small and expand. Think of it like building a LEGO set: you can add pieces as your needs grow.

Adding Cameras: No Limits, Just Logic

You can add as many cameras as you want—Arlo doesn’t impose a hard cap. But practicality matters. Here’s what to consider:

• SmartHub capacity: The hub supports up to 15 cameras. Beyond that, you’ll need a second hub (which syncs seamlessly via the Arlo app).
• Wi-Fi vs. SmartHub: Cameras connected directly to Wi-Fi (without the hub) may slow down your network. The SmartHub keeps things stable.
• Subscription costs: While local storage is free, cloud recording (for 2K footage) requires an Arlo Secure subscription. More cameras = higher tier costs.

For example, my neighbor has a 4-camera setup (front, back, garage, and side yard) with one SmartHub. It works flawlessly. But my friend with 8 cameras (plus a pool area and driveway) needed a second hub to avoid lag. Moral of the story? Plan ahead, but don’t stress. You can always add more later.

Mix-and-Match Camera Types

Arlo’s ecosystem lets you mix Pro 4 cameras with other models (like the Ultra 2 or Essential series). This is great if you want:

• 2K resolution for high-traffic areas (e.g., front door).
• 1080p resolution for low-traffic zones (e.g., backyard fence).
• Indoor cameras for nurseries or pet monitoring.

I added an Arlo Essential Indoor Camera to my setup for my home office. The Pro 4 handles the outdoors, while the Essential watches over my desk—all managed in the same app. It’s like having a custom security team!

How Many Cameras Do You Actually Need? A Room-by-Room Guide

Here’s where things get personal. The “right” number of cameras depends on your home’s layout, lifestyle, and security concerns. Let’s break it down room by room (or area by area).

Entry Points: The Obvious (and Critical) Zones

Doors and windows are prime targets for break-ins. Here’s how to cover them:

• Front door: 1 camera (wide-angle view to capture faces and packages).
• Back door: 1 camera (especially if it’s hidden from the street).
• Side gates/entrances: 1 camera per gate (if they’re used often).
• Garage: 1 camera (if it opens to the street or has a side door).

Example: My 2-camera kit covered my front and back doors. But after noticing a side gate was left open once (thanks, delivery driver), I added a third camera. Now I get alerts if anyone tampers with it.

Backyard and Outdoor Spaces

Backyards are often overlooked, but they’re vulnerable. Consider:

• Pool area: 1 camera (for safety and to deter trespassers).
• Detached structures: Sheds, guesthouses, or workshops need coverage.
• Fencing: Long fences may need multiple cameras (e.g., one at each end).

Pro tip: Use Arlo’s custom activity zones to ignore motion from trees or pets. I set mine to ignore my dog’s nightly bathroom breaks—no more false alerts!

Indoor Monitoring: When and Why

Not all security is about intruders. Indoor cameras help with:

• Pet monitoring: See if your dog ate your homework (or your couch).
• Nurseries: Check on your baby without waking them.
• Home offices: Keep an eye on deliveries or service workers.

I added an indoor camera after my cat knocked over a vase. Now I get a clip every time she’s up to mischief. It’s not security—it’s curiosity!

Arlo Pro 4 Camera System: Pricing, Bundles, and Value Comparison

Let’s talk money. The Arlo Pro 4 isn’t the cheapest option, but its flexibility and features can make it a smart investment. Here’s how the pricing works.

Kit Prices and What They Include

As of 2023, here are the typical prices (subject to change):

Bundle	Cameras Included	SmartHub Included	Price (USD)
1-Camera Kit	1	Yes (in most kits)	$159–$199
2-Camera Kit	2	Yes	$299–$349
3-Camera Kit	3	Yes	$449–$499
Single Camera (Add-on)	1	No	$129–$159
SmartHub (Standalone)	0	Yes	$79–$99

Note: Prices vary by retailer (Amazon, Best Buy, Arlo’s site). Always check for bundles with free trials of Arlo Secure subscriptions.

Cost Per Camera: Breaking Down the Value

Let’s do the math:

• 2-camera kit: $349 ÷ 2 = $174.50 per camera.
• 3-camera kit: $499 ÷ 3 = $166.33 per camera.
• Add-on camera: $149 per camera.

The takeaway? Bigger kits are more cost-effective. If you’re sure you’ll need 3+ cameras, go for the 3-pack. If you’re unsure, start with 2 and add later. But remember: the SmartHub is a one-time purchase. If you already own one (e.g., from an older Arlo system), adding cameras is cheaper.

Hidden Costs: Subscriptions and Accessories

Don’t forget these extras:

• Arlo Secure subscription: $2.99–$14.99/month. Covers cloud storage, AI detection, and emergency alerts.
• MicroSD card: $20–$50 (for local storage without a subscription).
• Solar panel: $59–$79 per camera (to avoid charging).
• Mounting hardware: Some kits include it; others don’t. Check the box!

I skipped the subscription at first and used a 128GB microSD card. It worked fine for basic needs. But when I needed to review a package theft, the cloud’s 2K footage made a huge difference. Lesson learned: subscriptions are optional but valuable.

Setting Up Your Arlo Pro 4 System: Tips for a Smooth Installation

Installation sounds intimidating, but it’s surprisingly easy. Here’s how to avoid common pitfalls.

Step 1: Plan Your Camera Placement

Before mounting anything, ask:

• What do I want to see? (e.g., faces, license plates, packages).
• What’s the lighting like? (Pro 4 has night vision, but avoid pointing directly at bright lights).
• How far is it from the SmartHub? (Max range: 300 feet, but walls reduce it).

I used the Arlo app’s “test mode” to preview camera views before mounting. It saved me from drilling holes in the wrong spots!

Step 2: Mounting and Charging

The Pro 4’s magnetic mounts are genius. No drilling—just stick the base to a wall, then snap the camera on. But:

• Use the included screws for permanent mounting (e.g., under eaves).
• Charge cameras fully before setup (takes ~2 hours). The battery lasts 3–6 months.
• Consider solar panels for hard-to-reach spots.

Pro tip: Label your cameras (e.g., “Front Door,” “Backyard”) in the app. It’s easy to mix them up during setup.

Step 3: Syncing and Testing

The app guides you through pairing, but watch for:

• Wi-Fi signal strength: Weak signals cause lag. Move the SmartHub closer if needed.
• Motion sensitivity: Start low and adjust to avoid false alerts.
• Audio settings: Test two-way talk (e.g., “Hey, stop stealing my packages!”).

I once set up a camera facing a busy street. It sent alerts for every car that drove by. Lowering the sensitivity fixed it—problem solved!

Final Thoughts: Is the Arlo Pro 4 Right for You?

So, how many cameras does an Arlo Pro 4 system include? The answer is: it’s up to you. Whether you start with one camera or a three-pack, the system grows with your needs. The Pro 4 shines in its flexibility, 2K clarity, and wire-free design. But it’s not perfect. The subscription model can add up, and the SmartHub is a must-have (but not always included).

For me, the Pro 4 was worth it. My 3-camera setup covers every entry point, and the solar panels mean I rarely touch them. But if you’re on a tight budget or want a simpler system, consider the Arlo Essential (cheaper, but lower resolution) or a wired system like Ring.

At the end of the day, home security is about peace of mind. The Arlo Pro 4 delivers that—if you plan wisely. Start small, add as needed, and don’t forget the SmartHub. Your future self (and your packages) will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many cameras does an Arlo Pro 4 camera system include?

The standard Arlo Pro 4 camera system typically includes one to four cameras, depending on the package you purchase. You can expand the system with additional standalone Pro 4 cameras as needed.

Can I buy the Arlo Pro 4 system with more than four cameras?

While the largest pre-bundled Arlo Pro 4 package usually includes four cameras, you can purchase individual Arlo Pro 4 cameras separately to create a system with six, eight, or more cameras. The base station supports up to 15 cameras total.

Is the Arlo Pro 4 sold as a single-camera kit?

Yes, the Arlo Pro 4 is available as a single-camera starter kit, which is ideal for small homes or testing the system. This kit includes one Arlo Pro 4 camera, a base station, and necessary accessories.

How many Arlo Pro 4 cameras can connect to one base station?

A single Arlo SmartHub or base station can support up to 15 Arlo Pro 4 cameras simultaneously. This makes it easy to scale your security setup for larger properties or full-home coverage.

Do all Arlo Pro 4 bundles include the same number of cameras?

No, Arlo Pro 4 camera system bundles vary—options include 1-camera, 2-camera, 3-camera, and 4-camera kits. Always check the product description to confirm how many cameras are included in your chosen package.

Can I mix Arlo Pro 4 cameras with older Arlo models in one system?

Yes, the Arlo Pro 4 is compatible with most older Arlo cameras (like Pro 3 or Ultra) on the same base station. However, mixing models may affect features like 2K HDR or color night vision across the entire system.