Check the model number on the camera or packaging to instantly identify your Arlo camera generation. Look for labels like “VMC4030” (3rd Gen) or “VMC5040” (5th Gen), or use the Arlo app under Device Settings > Device Info to confirm the model and release year. This quick verification ensures compatibility with accessories, software updates, and troubleshooting support in 2026.

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How to Determine What Generation Arlo Camera I Have in 2026

Key Takeaways

• Check the model number: Locate it on the camera or packaging for instant generation identification.
• Use the Arlo app: Navigate to device settings to find generation details quickly.
• Review purchase date: Older purchases likely indicate earlier generations; newer ones suggest recent models.
• Compare physical features: Design changes like shape or LED lights help distinguish generations.
• Consult Arlo support: Contact them with your serial number for accurate generation confirmation.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

Let’s be honest—Arlo has been around for a while. Since their first camera launched back in 2014, they’ve rolled out at least a dozen different models. Some look nearly identical. Others have subtle differences that matter—especially if you’re trying to upgrade, replace a part, or troubleshoot an issue.

If you’re asking, “How to determine what generation Arlo camera I have in 2026”, you’re not alone. I’ve been there. A few years ago, I bought a used Arlo setup online, excited to save some cash. Only when it arrived did I realize I had a mix of Arlo Pro 2, Arlo Pro 3, and one that looked like an Arlo Ultra but… wasn’t. Cue confusion, app errors, and a support call that took 45 minutes.

Knowing your Arlo camera generation isn’t just about bragging rights. It affects:

• App compatibility (newer apps may not support older models)
• Battery life and charging method (USB-C vs. proprietary)
• Accessory compatibility (like mounts, solar panels, or doorbell add-ons)
• Smart home integration (some generations work better with Alexa, Google, or HomeKit)
• Warranty and support eligibility

So whether you’re troubleshooting, upgrading, or just curious, this guide will walk you through how to determine what generation Arlo camera you have in 2026—quickly, accurately, and without needing a magnifying glass.

What You Need

Good news: you don’t need special tools. Everything you need is either on your camera or in your phone. Here’s your checklist:

• Your Arlo camera(s) – obviously!
• Your smartphone or tablet – with the Arlo app installed (iOS or Android)
• A Wi-Fi connection – so your camera can sync with the app
• Access to the Arlo web portal (optional, but helpful for advanced checks)
• Good lighting – to read labels and model numbers
• A flashlight or phone light – if your camera is mounted high or in a shadowy spot

That’s it. No screwdrivers, no tech wizardry. Just a few minutes of your time. And if you’re like me and have a camera tucked behind a gutter or under a porch, grab a ladder—but be safe!

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Determine What Generation Arlo Camera I Have in 2026

Step 1: Check the Physical Label (The Quickest Way)

Every Arlo camera has a label—usually on the back, bottom, or inside the battery compartment. This is your first clue.

Here’s how to find it:

• For wire-free models (like Arlo Pro, Ultra, or Essential): Remove the battery cover. The label is often printed inside.
• For wired or plug-in models (like Arlo Go or some base stations): Check the back or bottom of the device.
• Use a flashlight if needed. These labels can be tiny and hard to read.

Once you find it, look for the model number. It’s usually in this format: ABC123X or VMCxxxx.

Here’s what to look for:

• VMC4030 → Arlo Pro
• VMC4040 → Arlo Pro 2
• VMC4050 → Arlo Pro 3
• VMC5040 → Arlo Pro 4
• VMC8080 → Arlo Ultra
• VMC2030 → Arlo Essential (Indoor)
• VMC2040 → Arlo Essential (Outdoor)
• VMC2060 → Arlo Essential XL
• ABC123 → Arlo Go (LTE model)

I once spent 20 minutes trying to tell apart an Arlo Pro 2 and Pro 3—only to realize the model number was right there under the battery. Lesson learned: always check the label first when figuring out how to determine what generation Arlo camera I have in 2026.

Step 2: Open the Arlo App and Check Device Info

If the label is worn off or you’re still unsure, the Arlo app is your best friend.

Here’s how to use it:

1. Open the Arlo app on your phone.
2. Tap on the camera you want to identify.
3. Tap the three dots (⋮) or gear icon in the top-right corner.
4. Select Device Info or Device Details.

In that menu, you’ll see:

• Model Number – same as on the label, but digitally confirmed
• Firmware Version – tells you if it’s up to date
• Serial Number – useful for support
• Device Name – you might have renamed it, but the default often includes the model (e.g., “Arlo Pro 3”)

Pro move: If your camera is offline, try tapping it anyway. The app may still show cached device info.

I had an old Arlo Pro that hadn’t been used in years. The label was faded, but the app still showed “VMC4040”—Arlo Pro 2. Saved me a trip to the attic!

Step 3: Compare Physical Features (When Labels Are Missing)

Sometimes the label is damaged, or you’re dealing with a camera from a friend or secondhand market. In that case, use visual cues.

Here’s a quick visual guide to tell them apart:

Arlo Pro (1st Gen)

• Square-shaped, matte white body
• Large, round lens with a visible IR ring
• No spotlight or siren
• Battery compartment opens with a twist
• Micro-USB charging port (not USB-C)

Arlo Pro 2

• Same shape as Pro 1, but slightly slimmer
• Smaller lens housing
• Built-in spotlight (white light under the lens)
• Still uses Micro-USB
• No magnetic mount—uses a twist-and-lock base

Arlo Pro 3

• More rounded edges, glossy finish
• Large, integrated spotlight and siren
• USB-C charging (huge upgrade!)
• Improved magnetic mount (stronger, more flexible)
• Color night vision (not just black and white)

Arlo Pro 4

• Very similar to Pro 3, but with a built-in spotlight
• No need for a separate spotlight add-on
• Improved low-light performance
• Still USB-C, same magnetic mount
• Noticeably better motion detection

Arlo Ultra

• Larger, more premium design
• Dual-lens setup (wide + zoom)
• Integrated spotlight and siren
• 4K HDR video (a first for Arlo)
• USB-C charging
• More sensitive motion sensor

Arlo Essential (Indoor & Outdoor)

• Compact, cylindrical design
• No spotlight or siren (except Outdoor XL)
• Indoor: no weatherproofing
• Outdoor: IP65 rating, built-in mic and speaker
• USB-C charging
• No battery—must be plugged in (except XL version)

I once bought a “used Arlo Ultra” online. When it arrived, it had a single lens and no 4K option in the app. Turns out it was a Pro 3 with a similar body. Visual checks saved me from a scam.

Step 4: Check the Arlo Web Portal for Advanced Details

If you’re a detail lover (like me), the Arlo web portal gives you even more info.

Here’s how:

1. Go to my.arlo.com
2. Log in with your Arlo account
3. Click on Settings (top-right)
4. Go to My Devices
5. Click on the camera you want to check

Here, you’ll see:

• Exact model number
• Firmware history
• Last sync time
• Storage usage (if using local or cloud)
• Compatibility with current Arlo features

Bonus: If you’re troubleshooting, the web portal often gives more detailed error messages than the app. For example, I once saw a “Legacy Device Not Supported” warning for an Arlo Pro 1—which explained why my new Arlo app wouldn’t recognize it.

Step 5: Use the Arlo Support Tool (For Confirmation)

Still unsure? Arlo has a hidden gem: their support model lookup tool.

Here’s how to use it:

1. Go to Arlo Support
2. Click on Contact Us or Device Support
3. Search for “identify my Arlo camera” or “model number lookup”
4. Enter your model number (from label or app)

The tool will instantly tell you:

• Exact model and generation
• Release year
• Key features
• Compatible accessories
• Current firmware status

I used this when I found an old Arlo Go in a drawer. The label was half-gone, but the tool confirmed it was the LTE version (ABC123) and even told me it was discontinued in 2024. Useful for knowing what you’re working with.

Step 6: Cross-Check with Accessories (Bonus Method)

This one’s sneaky but helpful. Arlo accessories are often model-specific.

Check what you’re using:

• Magnetic mounts: Pro 3, Pro 4, and Ultra use the same mount. Pro 1 and Pro 2 use older twist mounts.
• Charging cables: Micro-USB = older models (Pro, Pro 2). USB-C = Pro 3, Pro 4, Ultra, Essential.
• Battery packs: Pro 1 and Pro 2 batteries are interchangeable. Pro 3+ use a different shape.
• Solar panels: Only compatible with Pro 2 and newer.
• Base stations: Older models (Pro 1) need a VMB3000 or VMB4000. Newer ones (Pro 3+) use VMB4500 or VMB5000.

I had a solar panel that wouldn’t fit my camera. Turns out I was trying to attach it to an Arlo Essential—which doesn’t support solar. Oops. But it helped me confirm the model!

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

Tip: Take a photo of the label and model number. Store it in your phone’s notes or a cloud folder. I do this for every device. Saved me when my Arlo Pro 3 died and I needed the exact model for a warranty claim.

Visual guide about how to determine what generation arlo camera i have

Image source: mobileimages.lowes.com

Warning: Don’t rely on the camera’s name in the app. You (or someone else) might have renamed it. Always check the model number under Device Info. I once had a camera named “Front Door” that was actually an old Arlo Pro 1—no wonder the video was grainy!

Tip: If you’re buying used, ask the seller for a screenshot of the Device Info screen. It’s the most reliable proof. I got scammed once with a “Pro 3” that was actually a Pro 2. Never again.

Common mistake: Assuming all “Arlo Pro” cameras are the same. The Pro 1 and Pro 4 are worlds apart in features and performance. Always check the generation when troubleshooting or upgrading.

Pro insight: Arlo doesn’t always update firmware for older models. If your camera is more than 4 years old, it might not support new app features. Check the Arlo release notes or support site to see if your model is still supported. I learned this the hard way when my Arlo Pro 1 stopped working with the new app update.

Bonus tip: Use the Arlo community forums. Real users often post side-by-side comparisons and model spotting guides. I found a thread that helped me identify a rare Arlo Go 2 model—something even the support tool missed!

FAQs About How to Determine What Generation Arlo Camera I Have in 2026

Q: Can I check my Arlo camera generation without opening the app?
A: Yes—just look at the label! The model number is your golden ticket. If you can’t find it, use the physical features (like USB-C vs. Micro-USB, spotlight, or lens shape) to narrow it down. But the app or web portal is the most accurate.

Q: What if my Arlo camera doesn’t show up in the app?
A: First, check if it’s powered on and connected to Wi-Fi. If it’s offline, try resetting it. If it still won’t connect, it might be a very old model (like Arlo Pro 1) that’s no longer supported by the current app. In that case, you may need to use an older app version or contact Arlo support. I had to use a secondary phone with an older app version to access my old Pro 1 once.

Q: Are Arlo camera generations backward compatible?
A: Mostly yes, but with limits. Newer base stations (like VMB5000) can support older cameras, but older base stations can’t handle newer ones. Also, newer features (like 4K or AI detection) won’t work on older models. Think of it like a smartphone: you can run old apps on a new phone, but not the other way around.

Q: How do I know if my Arlo camera is discontinued?
A: Check the Arlo website or support tool. Discontinued models are usually labeled as “Legacy” or “No longer available.” Also, if it’s not listed in the current product catalog, it’s likely discontinued. I found out my Arlo Go was discontinued when I tried to buy a replacement battery—none were available!

Q: Can I mix different Arlo generations in one system?
A: Yes! Arlo systems are designed to mix generations. I have a Pro 3, an Essential Outdoor, and an Ultra all on the same account. The app handles them fine. Just keep in mind that each camera will have its own features and limitations. For example, only the Ultra can record in 4K.

Q: What if the model number is faded or missing?
A: Use the visual guide in Step 3. Look at the lens, charging port, spotlight, and shape. If it’s still unclear, post a photo in the Arlo community forum. Real users are great at spotting these. I’ve done it myself—someone once helped me ID a rare Arlo Pro 2 with a custom paint job!

Q: Does the generation affect video quality?
A: Absolutely. Arlo Pro 1: 720p. Pro 2: 1080p. Pro 3 and 4: 1080p with color night vision. Ultra: 4K HDR. The newer the generation, the better the video—especially in low light. I upgraded from Pro 2 to Pro 4, and the difference was night and day (literally).

Final Thoughts

Figuring out how to determine what generation Arlo camera I have in 2026 doesn’t have to be a headache. It’s really just a mix of label reading, app checking, and a little visual detective work.

Start with the label. If that’s unclear, open the app. Use the web portal for backup. And if you’re still stuck, lean on the community or Arlo support.

Remember: knowing your generation helps you get the most out of your system—whether you’re upgrading, troubleshooting, or just curious. And if you’re like me, you’ll feel a little smarter every time you can say, “Yep, that’s an Arlo Pro 4.”

So go grab your camera, check that label, and take a few minutes to get familiar. Your future self—whether it’s setting up automations, replacing a battery, or calling support—will thank you.

And hey, if you find an old Arlo in a drawer? Don’t toss it. Identify it first. You never know—it might still have a few years of life left.

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