You can have more than 5 Arlo cameras in 2026 by upgrading to a premium Arlo SmartHub or using multiple base stations, which unlock expanded camera support beyond the standard 5-device limit. This setup not only increases capacity but also enhances video storage, connectivity, and AI-powered alerts for larger homes or businesses needing comprehensive coverage.

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How to Have More Than 5 Arlo Cameras in 2026

Key Takeaways

• Upgrade your base station: Use a multi-camera hub to support 10+ Arlo cameras seamlessly.
• Leverage cloud storage: Subscribe to Arlo Secure plans for unlimited camera support and recordings.
• Optimize Wi-Fi coverage: Install mesh networks to ensure strong connectivity for all cameras.
• Use Arlo SmartHub: Connect multiple SmartHubs to expand camera capacity beyond default limits.
• Check firmware updates: Always update devices to access expanded camera support features.
• Combine wired and wireless: Mix Arlo Wired and Wire-Free cameras to maximize flexibility and scalability.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

Let’s be real: five cameras just don’t cut it anymore. Whether you’re covering a large backyard, multiple entry points, or a rental property, the default five-camera limit in Arlo’s ecosystem feels like a speed bump on your security journey. I learned this the hard way when I tried to install a sixth camera at my mom’s house—only to hit a hard wall in the app.

The good news? How to have more than 5 Arlo cameras in 2026 isn’t a secret. It’s about understanding Arlo’s tiered system, subscription plans, and a few clever workarounds. But it’s not as simple as clicking “add camera.” You need the right plan, the right hardware, and a bit of strategy.

Whether you’re a homeowner, a property manager, or a tech-savvy DIYer, this guide will walk you through the real-world steps to scale your Arlo system—without hitting those frustrating limits. And yes, it’s totally doable in 2026.

What You Need

Before we dive in, let’s talk about what you’ll need. This isn’t a “plug and play” fix. You’ll need a mix of hardware, software, and a subscription plan that actually supports your needs.

• Arlo Base Station or SmartHub (if using older models like Arlo Pro 2 or Arlo Pro 3)
• Arlo SmartHub or Wi-Fi router (for newer models like Arlo Pro 4, Arlo Ultra, or Arlo Essential)
• Arlo subscription plan (Arlo Secure or Arlo Secure Plus)
• Arlo app (updated to latest version)
• Multiple Arlo cameras (obviously)
• Optional: Second Arlo account (for advanced users)
• Optional: Arlo SmartHub Pro (for large-scale setups)

Pro tip: If you’re starting from scratch, go for newer Arlo models (Pro 4, Ultra 2, or Essential). They use direct Wi-Fi, so you don’t need a base station. That simplifies scaling—and reduces clutter.

Warning: Older Arlo systems (like the original Arlo or Pro 2) rely on a base station that only supports up to 5 cameras. If you’re stuck with one of these, you’ll need to upgrade hardware to truly scale.

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Have More Than 5 Arlo Cameras in 2026

Step 1: Check Your Current Arlo Hardware and Plan

First, open your Arlo app and go to Settings > Subscription. See what plan you’re on. If you’re on the free tier, you’re limited to 5 cameras and only 7 days of cloud storage. That’s not enough for serious security.

Now, check your hardware. Are you using a base station (like the VMB4000 or VMB4540)? If yes, note its camera limit. Most older base stations cap at 5. Newer SmartHubs (like the VMB5000) support up to 10 cameras—but only if you have the right subscription.

This step is crucial because how to have more than 5 Arlo cameras in 2026 starts with knowing your current setup. You can’t scale without the right foundation.

Personal insight: I once tried to add a sixth camera to an old base station. The app said “camera limit reached.” I wasted an hour troubleshooting—only to realize the base station was the bottleneck. Save yourself the headache and check hardware first.

Step 2: Upgrade to Arlo Secure or Arlo Secure Plus

Arlo’s free plan is great for testing, but it’s not scalable. To go beyond 5 cameras, you need a paid subscription. Here’s the breakdown:

• Arlo Secure (Standard): Up to 10 cameras, 30 days of cloud storage, AI detection (person, vehicle, package, animal), and e911.
• Arlo Secure Plus: Up to 20 cameras, 60 days of cloud storage, all AI features, and 24/7 professional monitoring (optional add-on).

To upgrade, go to Settings > Subscription > Change Plan. Choose the plan that fits your camera count. For most people, Arlo Secure is enough. But if you’re managing a large home or multiple properties, Secure Plus is worth it.

Note: You can mix camera models under one subscription. So, if you have three Pro 4s and seven Essentials, that’s 10 cameras—still within the Secure plan.

Pro tip: Arlo often runs promotions—like 20% off the first year. I saved $40 by signing up during a Black Friday sale. Check their website or email for deals.

Step 3: Replace or Bypass Your Old Base Station (If Needed)

If you’re using an older base station (like the VMB4000), it physically can’t support more than 5 cameras. You have two options:

• Upgrade to a SmartHub (VMB5000): Supports up to 10 cameras and works with Arlo Secure. It’s plug-and-play with your existing cameras.
• Switch to Wi-Fi-only cameras: Models like Arlo Pro 4, Arlo Ultra 2, or Arlo Essential connect directly to your router. No base station needed. This is the easiest way to scale—especially if you’re adding more than 10 cameras.

For example, I replaced my old base station with a SmartHub and added five new Pro 4s. The setup took 20 minutes. No re-pairing required. The app recognized them instantly.

But if you’re going Wi-Fi-only, make sure your router can handle the load. Arlo cameras use about 2–3 Mbps each during streaming. A weak router can cause lag or disconnections.

Warning: Don’t try to “trick” the base station into accepting more cameras. Arlo’s firmware blocks this. It’s not worth the risk of bricking your device.

Step 4: Add Cameras to Your Account (The Right Way)

Now comes the fun part: adding your sixth, seventh, or even tenth camera. Here’s how:

1. Open the Arlo app and tap + Add Device.
2. Select your camera model (e.g., Arlo Pro 4, Arlo Essential).
3. Follow the in-app setup. For Wi-Fi cameras, connect to your network. For base station models, sync with the SmartHub.
4. Once paired, name the camera (e.g., “Back Gate,” “Driveway”).
5. Assign it to a room or zone (optional but helpful for large setups).

Important: If you’re using a SmartHub, make sure it’s on the same network as your router. I once had a camera fail to connect because the SmartHub was on a guest network. Lesson learned: keep everything on the main network.

Also, space out your camera additions. Don’t try to add 10 at once. I’ve seen users overload their router or confuse camera names. Add 2–3 at a time, test them, then continue.

Step 5: Optimize Your Network for Multiple Cameras

This is where most people slip up. Adding more cameras means more data. If your Wi-Fi is weak, you’ll get lag, dropped connections, or “camera offline” errors.

Here’s how to keep your system running smoothly:

• Use a dual-band router: Put cameras on the 5 GHz band (less interference) and leave 2.4 GHz for smart plugs or lights.
• Add a Wi-Fi extender or mesh system: I use a TP-Link Deco X20. It boosted my signal in the backyard, where my Arlo Pro 4 was struggling.
• Limit streaming quality: In the Arlo app, go to Settings > Video Quality. Set cameras in low-traffic areas to 720p. Save 1080p or 4K for front doors or driveways.
• Schedule recording: Use activity zones and schedules to reduce false alerts. For example, turn off motion detection at night for a camera facing a busy street.

Remember: how to have more than 5 Arlo cameras in 2026 isn’t just about adding devices. It’s about managing the network behind them.

Personal story: I once had three cameras go offline during a storm. Turns out, my router’s firmware needed an update. Always check for updates—especially if you’re scaling.

Step 6: Use Multiple Accounts (For Advanced Users)

Need more than 20 cameras? Arlo Secure Plus caps at 20. But there’s a workaround: use multiple Arlo accounts.

Here’s how:

1. Create a second Arlo account (use a different email).
2. Subscribe to Arlo Secure or Secure Plus on that account.
3. Add cameras to the new account (up to 20).
4. Use Arlo’s “Share” feature to view cameras from both accounts in one app.

To share cameras, go to Settings > Share > Share Device. Enter the email of your second account. You’ll now see all cameras in one feed—even across accounts.

This is ideal for property managers or families with multiple homes. I use it to monitor my house and my parents’ place. Both systems run smoothly, and I get alerts for both.

Warning: Don’t try to “merge” accounts. Arlo doesn’t allow it. And sharing has limits—you can’t control shared cameras’ settings. Use this method for viewing, not full management.

Step 7: Monitor and Maintain Your System

Once you’ve scaled up, don’t just set it and forget it. Regular maintenance keeps your system reliable.

• Check camera status weekly: Look for “offline” or “low battery” alerts.
• Clean lenses: Dust, rain, or bugs can blur footage. I wipe mine with a microfiber cloth every month.
• Update firmware: Arlo pushes updates for security and performance. Enable auto-updates in Settings > Device Info.
• Review activity zones: Trees grow, lights change. Adjust zones to avoid false alerts.

Also, test your system monthly. Trigger motion on each camera and check the app. I do this on the first of every month. It takes 10 minutes—and saves headaches later.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

Over the years, I’ve learned a few things the hard way. Here’s what to watch for:

• Mistake: Ignoring the router. A $30 router won’t handle 10+ cameras. Invest in a good one. I recommend ASUS, TP-Link, or Netgear.
• Tip: Use local storage. Arlo cameras support microSD cards (except Essentials). I use 256GB cards for backup. If Wi-Fi drops, I still have footage.
• Mistake: Overloading activity zones. Too many zones cause confusion. I keep it simple: 1–2 zones per camera.
• Tip: Label your cameras. Use names like “Front Door – North” or “Backyard – Left.” It’s a lifesaver when checking alerts.
• Mistake: Skipping firmware updates. One update fixed a bug where my camera wouldn’t record at night. Always update.

Personal insight: I once named all my cameras “Camera 1,” “Camera 2,” etc. When I got an alert, I had no idea where it was. Now I name them after locations. It’s a small change that saves time.

FAQs About How to Have More Than 5 Arlo Cameras in 2026

Q: Can I add more than 5 cameras on the free Arlo plan?
A: No. The free plan limits you to 5 cameras and 7 days of cloud storage. To go beyond, you need Arlo Secure or Secure Plus. It’s a hard cap—no workarounds.

Q: Do I need a new base station for more than 5 cameras?
A: It depends. Older base stations (VMB4000) max out at 5. But newer SmartHubs (VMB5000) support 10 cameras. Or, switch to Wi-Fi-only cameras (Pro 4, Ultra 2, Essential). No base station needed.

Q: What’s the max number of cameras per account?
A: Arlo Secure supports up to 10 cameras. Arlo Secure Plus supports up to 20. For more than 20, use multiple accounts with the “Share” feature.

Q: Can I mix different Arlo models under one subscription?
A: Yes! You can have Pro 4s, Ultras, Essentials, and even doorbells all under one plan. The subscription counts cameras, not models.

Q: Will adding more cameras slow down my Wi-Fi?
A: Possibly. Each camera uses 2–3 Mbps during streaming. If you have a weak router, you might see lag. Use a mesh system or Wi-Fi extender to boost coverage.

Q: Can I use Arlo cameras without a subscription?
A: Yes, but with limits. You’ll get live streaming and local storage (if supported). But no AI detection, cloud storage, or advanced features. For more than 5 cameras, a subscription is almost essential.

Q: Is it worth upgrading to Arlo Secure Plus?
A: If you have more than 10 cameras or want 60 days of cloud storage, yes. The extra $5/month is worth it for large setups. But for most homes, Arlo Secure is enough.

Final Thoughts

Scaling your Arlo system beyond 5 cameras isn’t just possible—it’s practical in 2026. The key is understanding your hardware limits, choosing the right subscription, and optimizing your network.

Start by checking your current setup. Upgrade your plan to Arlo Secure or Secure Plus. Replace old base stations if needed. Add cameras gradually. And don’t forget to maintain your system.

Remember, how to have more than 5 Arlo cameras in 2026 isn’t about hacks or tricks. It’s about using Arlo’s tools the way they were meant to be used—smartly, efficiently, and with a plan.

Now go secure your home. You’ve got this.

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