How Many Cameras Can Arlo Hub Support Find Out Now

The Arlo Hub supports up to 15 cameras simultaneously, making it ideal for comprehensive home or business surveillance. This scalable system ensures seamless integration and real-time monitoring across all connected devices, regardless of camera model. Perfect for expanding your security setup without sacrificing performance.

Key Takeaways

• Arlo Hub supports up to 15 cameras per base station for seamless multi-camera setups.
• Check model compatibility first—not all Arlo cameras work with every hub version.
• Wi-Fi 6 hubs handle more devices with less lag, improving performance in large homes.
• Reduce overload by grouping cameras strategically to optimize bandwidth and connectivity.
• Firmware updates increase capacity—keep your hub updated for max camera support.
• Use wired connections for stability when running the max number of cameras reliably.

How Many Cameras Can an Arlo Hub Support? Let’s Find Out

Imagine this: You’ve just moved into a new home, and you’re eager to set up a smart security system. You’ve heard great things about Arlo cameras—sleek design, easy installation, and reliable motion detection. But then you hit a snag. You’re not sure how many cameras an Arlo hub can support. Will one hub handle your front door, backyard, driveway, and garage? Or do you need multiple hubs? It’s a common question, and honestly, it’s one I wrestled with when setting up my own system.

Arlo is a popular choice for home security, but its hub compatibility and camera limits aren’t always clearly explained. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or upgrading your existing setup, knowing the limits of your Arlo hub is crucial. It affects everything from budget planning to coverage. In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the specifics—no jargon, no fluff. Just real, practical answers to help you make the best choice for your home. And yes, we’ll answer the big question: how many cameras can an Arlo hub support? Spoiler: It depends on the hub model and camera type, but don’t worry—we’ll break it all down.

Understanding Arlo Hubs: The Brains Behind Your Security System

What Is an Arlo Hub?

Think of the Arlo hub as the “brain” of your security setup. It’s a small device that connects to your home Wi-Fi and acts as a central point for your Arlo cameras. Unlike some brands that let cameras connect directly to your router, Arlo uses hubs (or base stations) to manage communication, storage, and alerts. This design improves reliability and reduces Wi-Fi congestion. For example, if you have a weak router signal in your backyard, the hub can act as a bridge, ensuring your outdoor camera stays connected.

Why Hubs Matter for Camera Support

Hubs aren’t just about connectivity—they also determine how many cameras you can add. Each hub has a maximum number of supported devices, based on processing power and bandwidth. Exceeding this limit can cause lag, dropped connections, or even system crashes. I learned this the hard way when I tried to connect six cameras to a hub rated for four. The system became sluggish, and one camera kept disconnecting. It was frustrating, but it taught me to always check the specs before buying.

Key Hub Models and Their Roles

• Arlo SmartHub (VMB5000): The latest model, designed for Arlo Pro 3, Pro 4, Ultra, and newer cameras. It supports local storage via microSD card, which is great for avoiding cloud fees.
• Arlo Base Station (VMB4000/VMB4500): Older models for Arlo Pro, Pro 2, and Arlo Go. These are still reliable but lack some newer features.
• Arlo Bridge (VMB4540): A hybrid hub for Arlo Wire-Free and Pro cameras. It’s a budget-friendly option for mixed setups.

Tip: Always check the hub’s model number before buying. Older hubs may not support newer cameras, and vice versa.

How Many Cameras Can Each Arlo Hub Support? The Breakdown

Arlo SmartHub (VMB5000): The Powerhouse

The Arlo SmartHub is the current gold standard, supporting up to 20 cameras. This makes it ideal for large homes, businesses, or anyone who wants extensive coverage. For example, if you have a two-story house with a pool, driveway, and detached garage, 20 cameras give you room to grow. I use this hub for my setup: four outdoor cameras, two indoor, and a doorbell—all running smoothly with no lag.

But wait—there’s a catch. The 20-camera limit assumes all cameras are connected directly to the hub. If you’re using Arlo’s Wi-Fi extender (sold separately), you can add more cameras, but performance may vary. Also, older cameras (like Arlo Pro 2) may not reach the full 20-device cap due to compatibility quirks.

Arlo Base Station (VMB4000/VMB4500): The Reliable Workhorse

These older hubs support up to 15 cameras. They’re a solid choice for medium-sized homes or those upgrading from Arlo Pro 2. I helped a friend set up a VMB4500 with 12 cameras (eight outdoor, four indoor), and it handled the load perfectly. However, the lack of local storage (unless you add a USB drive) is a downside. Cloud storage costs add up over time.

Arlo Bridge (VMB4540): The Budget Option

The Bridge supports up to 15 devices, but only five of them can be Pro cameras. The rest must be Arlo Wire-Free or older models. This is great for mixed setups but limits scalability. For instance, if you start with five Pro cameras and later want to add more, you’ll need a second hub.

Important Limitations to Remember

• Camera generation matters: Newer hubs may not support legacy cameras (e.g., Arlo Q).
• Bandwidth usage: High-resolution cameras (4K) use more bandwidth, potentially reducing the effective camera count.
• Firmware updates: Arlo occasionally adjusts limits via updates. Always check the official specs.

Factors That Affect Camera Support: Beyond the Numbers

Wi-Fi Strength and Interference

Even if your hub supports 20 cameras, weak Wi-Fi can ruin the experience. Cameras farthest from the hub (like in a backyard or garage) may drop connections. I fixed this by placing the hub centrally and using a Wi-Fi extender. Pro tip: Run a speed test near each camera’s location. Aim for at least 10 Mbps download speed.

Camera Resolution and Activity

4K cameras (like Arlo Ultra) use more bandwidth than 1080p models. If you have 10 Ultra cameras recording 24/7, your hub might struggle. Conversely, 1080p cameras with motion-activated recording are easier to manage. For example, my 4K backyard camera uses 2x more bandwidth than my 1080p front door camera.

Storage Solutions: Local vs. Cloud

• Local storage (SmartHub only): A microSD card stores footage directly on the hub. This avoids cloud fees but has limited capacity (up to 2 TB). Great for short-term storage.
• Cloud storage: Arlo’s subscription plans offer unlimited storage for 14–30 days. But with 20 cameras, costs add up (e.g., $200+/year for the 30-day plan).

Real-world example: My friend uses a SmartHub with a 1 TB microSD card. It stores 7 days of footage from 12 cameras—perfect for her needs.

Multi-Hub Setups: When One Isn’t Enough

If you need more than 20 cameras, you can link multiple hubs to the same account. Arlo calls this a “multi-hub system.” For instance, a large property might have two SmartHubs (20 cameras each) covering different zones. The downside? Each hub requires its own power and Wi-Fi connection, and you’ll manage them separately in the app.

Practical Examples: Real-World Setups and Tips

Small Apartment (1–3 Cameras)

You don’t need a hub! Arlo’s newer cameras (Pro 3/4, Ultra) can connect directly to Wi-Fi. Just use the Arlo app to set them up. Tip: Place cameras near your router for the strongest signal.

Medium Home (4–10 Cameras)

A single SmartHub or Base Station works well. Focus on high-traffic areas: front door, backyard, driveway, and living room. I recommend the SmartHub for future-proofing. Example setup:

• 4 outdoor cameras (1080p)
• 3 indoor cameras (1080p)
• 1 doorbell camera
• 1 garage camera

Total: 9 cameras. Leaves room for expansion.

Large Property (11–20 Cameras)

A SmartHub is a must. Prioritize 4K cameras for critical areas (front door, backyard) and 1080p for less important zones (shed, side yard). Use local storage to save on cloud fees. Example:

• 6 outdoor 4K cameras
• 4 outdoor 1080p cameras
• 5 indoor 1080p cameras
• 1 4K doorbell
• 4 garage/side cameras

Total: 20 cameras. Pro tip: Label each camera in the app for easy management.

Business or Estate (20+ Cameras)

Use multiple SmartHubs. Divide coverage by zone (e.g., one hub for the main house, another for the barn). Assign a team member to monitor each hub’s app. Example:

• Hub 1: 15 cameras (main house, pool)
• Hub 2: 10 cameras (barn, gate, workshop)

Total: 25 cameras. Note: This requires a robust Wi-Fi mesh system.

Data Table: Arlo Hub Models and Camera Support

Hub Model	Max Cameras	Compatible Cameras	Local Storage	Wi-Fi Extender Support
Arlo SmartHub (VMB5000)	20	Pro 3/4, Ultra, Q+, Essential	Yes (microSD up to 2 TB)	Yes
Arlo Base Station (VMB4500)	15	Pro, Pro 2, Go, Q, Essential	Yes (USB drive)	Yes
Arlo Base Station (VMB4000)	15	Pro, Pro 2, Go, Q	Yes (USB drive)	Yes
Arlo Bridge (VMB4540)	15 (5 Pro max)	Pro, Wire-Free, Essential	No	Yes

Note: Compatibility may vary based on firmware updates. Always check Arlo’s official website for the latest info.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Hub for Your Needs

So, how many cameras can an Arlo hub support? The answer is clear: it depends. The Arlo SmartHub handles up to 20 cameras, while older models max out at 15. But numbers alone don’t tell the whole story. Your Wi-Fi strength, camera resolution, and storage needs all play a role.

Here’s my advice: Start with your coverage goals. Need basic security for a small home? Skip the hub and use Wi-Fi cameras. For medium to large setups, invest in a SmartHub. It’s the most future-proof option. And if you’re building a massive system, don’t hesitate to use multiple hubs—just plan your Wi-Fi and storage carefully.

Remember, security isn’t just about quantity. A well-placed 1080p camera can do more than a poorly positioned 4K one. Test your setup, adjust as needed, and don’t overcomplicate it. At the end of the day, the best system is one that fits your life—not the other way around. Now, go secure your home with confidence!

Frequently Asked Questions

How many cameras can an Arlo hub support?

The number of cameras an Arlo hub can support depends on the model. Most Arlo hubs, like the Arlo SmartHub or Base Station, can handle up to 15–20 cameras, but newer models may support more. Always check your specific hub’s specifications.

Can I connect more than 15 cameras to my Arlo SmartHub?

Yes, some Arlo SmartHubs support up to 20 cameras, but performance may vary based on Wi-Fi and network conditions. For larger setups, consider using multiple hubs to ensure stable connectivity.

Is there a limit to how many Arlo cameras I can pair with one hub?

Yes, Arlo hubs have a device limit, typically ranging from 15 to 20 cameras. Exceeding this limit may cause connectivity issues or prevent new cameras from syncing properly.

How many cameras can the Arlo Pro 3 hub support?

The Arlo Pro 3 hub (SmartHub) supports up to 20 cameras, making it ideal for medium to large home security setups. For larger properties, additional hubs may be required.

Do all Arlo hubs support the same number of cameras?

No, the camera capacity varies by hub model. Older base stations may support fewer devices, while newer SmartHubs can handle up to 20 cameras. Refer to your hub’s user manual for exact limits.

What happens if I exceed the Arlo hub’s camera limit?

If you exceed the hub’s camera limit, the system may stop syncing new devices or experience performance drops. To avoid issues, distribute cameras across multiple hubs or upgrade to a higher-capacity model.