How Many Cameras Can I Add to My Arlo Base A Complete Guide

You can add up to 15 Arlo cameras to a single Arlo base station, depending on your specific model and subscription plan. Higher-tier plans and newer base stations like the Arlo SmartHub support more devices, offering greater flexibility for whole-home coverage. Always verify compatibility to maximize your system’s potential.

Key Takeaways

• Check your base model: Arlo base station limits vary by model (e.g., 5–200 cameras).
• Wi-Fi vs. base-connected: Wired bases support more cameras than Wi-Fi-only setups.
• Bandwidth matters: More cameras require higher internet speed for optimal performance.
• Use Arlo app: Always verify compatibility and limits via the official Arlo app.
• Expand with hubs: Add extra base stations to scale beyond default limits.
• Firmware updates: Keep base firmware current to maximize camera capacity.

How Many Cameras Can I Add to My Arlo Base? A Complete Guide

Imagine this: you just got your first Arlo security camera, set it up, and it works like a charm. The night vision is crisp, the app is intuitive, and you finally feel safer. But then it hits you—what if I want to expand? Maybe you need to cover your backyard, garage, or even the front porch. You start wondering, “How many cameras can I add to my Arlo base?” You’re not alone. This is one of the most common questions new Arlo users ask, and honestly, it’s a great one. After all, your home is unique, and your security setup should be too.

Whether you’re a first-time user or someone upgrading from a single camera, understanding your Arlo system’s capacity is key to building a reliable, scalable home security network. The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. It depends on the Arlo base station model you own, your subscription plan, and even your Wi-Fi setup. But don’t worry—by the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly how many cameras your base can handle, which models work best together, and how to avoid common pitfalls that could leave blind spots in your coverage.

Understanding Your Arlo Base Station Model and Its Limits

Not all Arlo base stations are created equal. The number of cameras you can add depends heavily on which base station you’re using. Think of the base station as the “brain” of your Arlo system—it communicates with your cameras, stores data (if local), and connects to the cloud. Let’s break down the most common Arlo base stations and their camera limits.

Arlo Base Station Models and Camera Capacity

Here’s a quick look at the main Arlo base stations and how many cameras they officially support:

• Arlo Pro 3/Pro 4 Base Station (VMB4540): Supports up to 5 cameras without a subscription. With a paid Arlo Smart subscription, you can add up to 10 cameras.
• Arlo Ultra Base Station (VMB5000): Designed for high-end setups. Supports up to 6 cameras without a subscription, and up to 15 cameras with Arlo Smart Premier or Elite.
• Arlo SmartHub (VMB4000): A newer, more compact hub. Supports up to 15 cameras, but only if you have an active Arlo Smart subscription. Without a plan, it’s limited to 5 cameras.
• Arlo Pro 2 Base Station (VMB4000): Older model. Supports up to 5 cameras total, regardless of subscription.
• Arlo Go Base Station (VMB3000): For cellular cameras. Supports up to 5 cameras, but only Arlo Go or Arlo Go 2 models.

Notice a pattern? Subscriptions unlock more capacity. This is Arlo’s way of encouraging users to adopt their cloud services. But it’s not just about numbers—there are practical reasons for these limits, which we’ll explore next.

Why Are There Limits?

You might be thinking, “Why can’t I just plug in 20 cameras and call it a day?” Great question. The limits aren’t arbitrary. Here’s what’s happening behind the scenes:

• Bandwidth and Processing Power: Each camera streams video, sends alerts, and syncs with the base. More cameras = more data. The base station has to process all of this. Too many, and it can slow down or drop connections.

< Local vs. Cloud Storage: If you’re using local storage (via USB on the base), the system has to manage recordings from all cameras. This can strain the base’s storage and processing.

• Wi-Fi and Network Load: Even if the base station can handle 15 cameras, your home Wi-Fi might not. Cameras that connect via Wi-Fi (like Arlo Pro 3 or Ultra) add to your network traffic.
• Arlo Smart Subscription Tiers: Arlo uses subscriptions to manage cloud storage, AI features, and camera limits. Higher tiers = more cameras allowed in the cloud ecosystem.

For example, I once tried to add a sixth camera to my old VMB4000 base (Pro 2 era). It connected, but the app kept freezing, and one camera would randomly go offline. After troubleshooting, I realized the base was simply maxed out. I had to either upgrade the base or remove a camera. That’s when I learned: capacity matters.

Subscription Tiers and How They Affect Camera Limits

If you’ve been browsing Arlo’s website, you’ve probably seen terms like “Arlo Smart,” “Arlo Smart Premier,” and “Arlo Smart Elite.” These aren’t just marketing fluff—they directly impact how many cameras you can add and what features you get. Let’s demystify them.

Free vs. Paid: What You Get (and What You Don’t)

Here’s the deal: without a subscription, your Arlo system is limited in both camera count and functionality. Here’s what you miss out on:

• Cloud Storage: Free plan = no video storage. You only get live viewing and motion alerts.
• AI Detection: No person, package, vehicle, or animal detection. Just “motion detected.”
• Extended Camera Limits: As mentioned earlier, most bases only support 5 cameras without a plan.
• Activity Zones: You can’t customize where the camera should look for motion.
• E911 Emergency Calling: Only available with paid plans.

Now, here’s what you gain with a paid Arlo Smart plan:

Plan	Price (Monthly)	Cloud Storage (Days)	AI Detection	Max Cameras	Best For
Arlo Smart (Single Camera)	$2.99	30	Yes (person, package, vehicle, animal)	1 camera	One-camera users
Arlo Smart Premier (Up to 5 Cameras)	$9.99	30	Yes	5 cameras	Small homes, apartments
Arlo Smart Elite (Up to 15 Cameras)	$14.99	60	Yes + 4K video support	15 cameras	Large homes, multi-camera setups

Notice how the Arlo Smart Elite plan unlocks up to 15 cameras? That’s a game-changer for larger homes or people who want full coverage. But here’s a pro tip: you don’t need to buy the 15-camera plan right away. You can start with the 5-camera plan and upgrade later. Arlo lets you change plans anytime through the app.

Real-World Example: Scaling Your System

Let’s say you start with one Arlo Ultra camera and the VMB5000 base station. Without a subscription, you can only add 5 more cameras (total: 6). But if you sign up for the Arlo Smart Elite plan, you can add up to 15 cameras total. That means you could cover:

• Front door
• Backyard
• Garage
• Driveway
• Side gate
• Back porch
• Living room (indoor camera)
• Hallway
• Staircase
• Basement
• Pool area
• Front yard (second camera for wider view)
• Side yard
• Second-floor balcony
• Entryway (indoor)

That’s 15 cameras—enough for a medium to large home. And with the Elite plan, you get 60 days of cloud storage, 4K video, and AI detection on all of them. Worth it? For many, yes.

Mixing Camera Models: Can You Combine Different Arlo Cameras?

You might be wondering: “Can I add an Arlo Pro 4 to a base that already has an Arlo Ultra?” Or, “What if I want to use older Arlo cameras with a newer base?” The good news: Arlo is designed to be modular. But there are some caveats.

Compatibility Rules

Here’s what you need to know:

• Base Station Compatibility: Most modern Arlo cameras (Pro 3, Pro 4, Ultra, Essential, Go) work with the VMB4540 (Pro 3/4 base) and VMB5000 (Ultra base). The newer SmartHub (VMB4000) also supports them.
• Older Cameras: Arlo Pro 1 and Pro 2 cameras only work with their original base stations (VMB4000 for Pro 2). You cannot add them to a Pro 3/4 base or SmartHub.
• Arlo Go (Cellular): These require the VMB3000 base. They don’t work with Wi-Fi-based bases.
• Arlo Essential (Indoor/Outdoor): These are Wi-Fi-only and don’t need a base station. But if you do connect them to a base, they count toward your camera limit.

So, yes—you can mix and match. For example, I have a VMB5000 base with:

• 2 x Arlo Ultra (4K, color night vision)
• 3 x Arlo Pro 4 (2K, spotlight)
• 1 x Arlo Essential Outdoor (1080p, Wi-Fi)

Total: 6 cameras. With the Elite plan, I could add 9 more. The system handles it just fine. The key is making sure all cameras are compatible with the base’s firmware.

Tips for Mixing Cameras Successfully

Here’s what I’ve learned from trial and error:

• Update Firmware First: Before adding a new camera, make sure your base station and all existing cameras are on the latest firmware. This prevents sync issues.
• Name Cameras Clearly: In the app, name each camera by location (e.g., “Front Door – Ultra,” “Backyard – Pro 4”). This helps when managing multiple models.
• Check Bandwidth: If you have 10+ cameras, especially 4K ones, your Wi-Fi might struggle. Consider using a mesh network or dedicated security VLAN.
• Use Activity Zones Wisely: Different cameras have different fields of view. Set activity zones to avoid false alerts from trees or street traffic.
• Test One at a Time: When adding a new camera, do it one at a time. This helps identify if a specific camera is causing issues.

One time, I added three Pro 4 cameras at once. One kept disconnecting. I had to remove them, update the base, then add them back one by one. Lesson learned: patience pays off.

Wi-Fi, Range, and Signal Strength: Hidden Factors That Affect Camera Limits

You might have the right base, the right subscription, and compatible cameras—but if your Wi-Fi is weak, you’ll still run into problems. Signal strength is just as important as the official camera limit.

How Wi-Fi Impacts Your Setup

Arlo cameras that connect via Wi-Fi (not through the base station) add to your network load. Here’s what happens:

• Bandwidth Usage: Each 1080p camera uses about 1–2 Mbps when streaming. 4K uses 3–5 Mbps. If you have 15 cameras, that’s 15–75 Mbps of bandwidth—just for cameras.
• Router Capacity: Most home routers can handle 20–30 devices. But if you already have phones, laptops, smart TVs, and lights connected, you might hit the limit.
• Signal Interference: Thick walls, metal, or other electronics can block Wi-Fi signals. Cameras far from the router may disconnect or lag.
• Base Station Placement: The base station needs a strong Wi-Fi signal too. If it’s in a basement with poor reception, it can’t communicate well with cloud or app.

I once had a camera in my detached garage. The Wi-Fi signal was weak, and the camera kept going offline. I tried Wi-Fi extenders, but they didn’t help much. The fix? I moved the base station to a central location and used an Ethernet cable to connect it directly to the router. Instant improvement.

Solutions for Better Coverage

Here are practical ways to improve your setup:

• Use Ethernet for the Base Station: Connect your base to the router via Ethernet. This gives it a stable, high-speed connection. The cameras then use the base as a hub, reducing Wi-Fi load.
• Add a Mesh Wi-Fi System: Systems like Google Nest Wi-Fi or Eero can extend coverage to far corners. Place a mesh node near your base or in a central location.
• Use Arlo’s Sync Module (for Wi-Fi Cameras): The Arlo Sync Module creates a dedicated 2.4 GHz network for your cameras. It reduces interference and improves reliability. It supports up to 15 cameras—perfect for large setups.
• Position Cameras Strategically: Place cameras within 30–50 feet of the base or Wi-Fi source. Avoid thick walls, metal, or appliances.
• Monitor Network Usage: Use your router’s admin panel or apps like Fing to see how many devices are connected and how much bandwidth each uses.

For example, my home has 12 devices on Wi-Fi. I use a mesh system with three nodes. The base station is on Ethernet, and I have a Sync Module for my outdoor cameras. No disconnects, no lag. Smooth sailing.

Future-Proofing Your Arlo System: What to Consider Before Expanding

You’re excited to add more cameras—but before you hit “buy,” think ahead. Future-proofing ensures your system stays reliable as your needs grow.

Plan for Growth (But Don’t Overbuy)

It’s tempting to buy 10 cameras at once. But consider:

• Do You Need That Many? A 2,000 sq ft home might only need 5–8 cameras. A 5,000 sq ft estate might need 12–15.
• Start Small, Expand Later: Buy 3–4 cameras first. Test the system. Then add more as needed.
• Subscription Flexibility: You can upgrade your plan anytime. Start with Arlo Smart Premier, then go to Elite when you add more cameras.
• Power Sources: Battery cameras are easy to install, but you’ll need to charge them. Wired cameras (like Arlo Pro 4) need outlets or solar panels. Plan your power access.

I started with 3 cameras. After a few months, I added 2 more. Then, when I got a dog, I added a backyard camera. Gradual expansion saved me money and let me test each camera’s performance.

Upgrade Paths and Newer Models

Arlo releases new cameras every 1–2 years. Here’s how to stay ahead:

• Base Station Longevity: The VMB5000 and SmartHub are designed to last 5+ years. They support newer cameras via firmware updates.
• Check for Trade-In Deals: Arlo sometimes offers discounts when you trade in old cameras.
• Consider Solar Panels: For outdoor cameras, solar panels reduce battery changes. They work with most Pro and Ultra models.
• Look for Bundles: Arlo often sells camera + base station bundles. These can be cheaper than buying separately.

One thing I wish I knew earlier: the Arlo SmartHub supports future cameras that might not work with older bases. If you’re buying new, go with the SmartHub for maximum flexibility.

Conclusion: Your Arlo System, Your Rules

So, how many cameras can you add to your Arlo base? The answer is: it depends—but you have options. With the right base station, a smart subscription plan, and good Wi-Fi, you can build a robust security system that fits your home perfectly.

Remember, it’s not just about the number. It’s about reliability, coverage, and ease of use. Don’t rush to hit the max limit. Start with what you need, test the system, and expand when it makes sense. Whether you’re protecting a cozy apartment or a sprawling property, Arlo can grow with you.

And if you’re ever unsure, check Arlo’s official compatibility chart or reach out to their support. They’re actually pretty helpful. At the end of the day, your home is unique—your security system should be too. So go ahead, add that camera to the backyard. Or the garage. Or the attic. Just do it smartly, and you’ll sleep better knowing every corner is covered.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many cameras can I add to my Arlo base station?

The number of cameras you can connect to an Arlo base station depends on your model. Most Arlo bases support 4–15 cameras, with Pro and Ultra systems allowing up to 15 devices for expanded coverage.

What factors affect how many Arlo cameras I can add to my base?

Bandwidth, video resolution, and base model (e.g., Arlo Pro 4 vs. Ultra) impact capacity. Higher-resolution cameras consume more resources, potentially reducing the total number supported.

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

Yes, Arlo bases are compatible with most camera models in the same ecosystem (e.g., Pro 3, Pro 4, Ultra). However, performance may vary based on the oldest camera’s capabilities.

Is there a limit to how many cameras I can add to my Arlo account?

Arlo accounts can manage up to 200 devices, but the base station’s limit (4–15 cameras) is the primary constraint. Multiple bases are needed for larger setups.

Does adding more cameras slow down my Arlo base station?

Adding cameras can strain your base if it’s near capacity, causing lag or disconnections. For optimal performance, avoid exceeding 80% of your base’s max camera limit.

How do I check how many cameras my Arlo base currently supports?

Open the Arlo app, go to “Settings” > “My Devices” > “Base Station.” The app displays your base model and the number of connected cameras, along with its max capacity.