Check the label on the back or bottom of your Arlo camera for the model number—this is the fastest and most reliable way to identify your device in 2026. Use the Arlo app to view device details under Settings > Device Info, where firmware, model, and compatibility are clearly listed. No guesswork needed.

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How to Know What Arlo Camera I Have in 2026

Key Takeaways

• Check the model number: Locate it on the camera or packaging for exact identification.
• Use the Arlo app: Navigate to device settings to view your camera’s model details.
• Review purchase records: Find model info in your order confirmation or receipt.
• Inspect physical design: Compare shape, color, and features with official Arlo specs.
• Verify via serial number: Enter it on Arlo’s support site for model confirmation.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

Ever opened your Arlo app and stared at a list of cameras labeled “Front Door,” “Backyard,” and “Garage,” but had no idea which model each one actually is? You’re not alone. I’ve been there—standing in my living room, trying to figure out if my outdoor camera is the Arlo Pro 5 or the older Arlo Ultra, just to check compatibility with a new mount or firmware update.

Knowing what Arlo camera you have in 2026 isn’t just about curiosity. It affects battery life expectations, feature availability, accessory compatibility, and even security updates. Whether you’re troubleshooting, upgrading, or just want to brag about your 4K HDR night vision (guilty!), identifying your Arlo model is the first step.

This guide walks you through how to know what Arlo camera I have in 2026—using simple, no-tech-stress methods. No need to unmount anything. No need to guess. Just clear, actionable steps.

What You Need

Good news: you don’t need any special tools. Everything you need is already in your hands—literally. Here’s your quick checklist:

• Your Arlo app (iOS or Android)
• Your smartphone or tablet
• Your Arlo account login
• Optional: a web browser (for desktop users)
• Optional: a magnifying glass (if checking physical labels)

That’s it. No screwdrivers, no tech manuals, no calling customer service (unless you want to). The how to know what Arlo camera I have in 2026 process is all digital and user-friendly.

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

Step 1: Open the Arlo App and Log In

Start by opening the Arlo app on your phone or tablet. If you’re not logged in, enter your credentials. This is your command center for all things Arlo.

Once you’re in, you’ll see your camera feed or a list of your devices. That’s your starting point.

Pro Tip: If you have multiple Arlo accounts (like a home and a vacation house), make sure you’re in the right one. I once spent 10 minutes trying to find a camera that was actually on my in-law’s account—lesson learned!

Step 2: Tap on the Camera You Want to Identify

From the home screen, tap directly on the camera you’re curious about. This opens the camera preview with controls below (like live view, snapshot, or settings).

Now, look for the gear icon (⚙️)—usually in the top right. Tap it. This opens the Camera Settings menu, where the real info lives.

Warning: If you see a “No Connection” message, try refreshing or checking Wi-Fi. A camera that’s offline can still show model info, but you’ll need connectivity to access all details.

Step 3: Navigate to “Device Info” or “About”

Inside the settings menu, scroll down until you see “Device Info” or “About Device”. Tap it. This is the goldmine.

Here, you’ll find:

• Model Name (e.g., Arlo Pro 5S, Arlo Essential, Arlo Ultra 2)
• Model Number (e.g., VMC5040, VMC4050, VMC3050)
• Firmware Version
• Serial Number
• MAC Address (useful for IT pros or network setups)

This is the most reliable way to know what Arlo camera you have in 2026—straight from the source.

Personal Insight: I keep a simple spreadsheet with each camera’s model, serial, and install date. It’s saved me twice when replacing a faulty unit or checking warranty status.

Step 4: Use the Web Portal (Alternative for Desktop Users)

Prefer using a computer? Head to my.arlo.com and log in with your Arlo account.

From the dashboard, click on the camera you want to identify. Then, go to the Settings tab (gear icon), and select “Device Info”.

The information is identical to the app, but the layout is cleaner for larger screens. Great if you’re managing 8+ cameras and want to take screenshots or copy-paste model numbers into emails.

Pro Tip: Use the search bar in the web portal to filter cameras by name or type. It’s a lifesaver when you have a dozen devices.

Step 5: Check the Physical Camera (For the Curious or Offline Cameras)

If your camera is offline or you just want to double-check, you can identify it physically. But don’t panic—you don’t need to take it down.

Most Arlo cameras have a label on the back or bottom with:

• The model number (e.g., VMC4050)
• The serial number
• Sometimes, the model name

Here’s a quick visual guide to common models (as of 2026):

• Arlo Pro 5/5S: Compact, black, magnetic base, “Arlo Pro” printed on the front
• Arlo Ultra 2: Larger, silver ring around lens, 4K sensor, “Arlo Ultra” on front
• Arlo Essential: Smaller, white, no base, “Arlo” logo only
• Arlo Wire-Free: Older model, white, removable battery, “Arlo” on front
• Arlo Floodlight: Has a built-in light bar, larger body, “Arlo” on front

If the label is faded or missing (common after years of sun exposure), use the model number and search it on Google or the Arlo support site.

Warning: Avoid removing the camera unless necessary. The mounting bracket is designed to stay in place. If you must take it down, mark the spot first!

Step 6: Cross-Reference with Arlo’s Official Model Guide

Arlo’s website has a model comparison chart that’s updated regularly. Once you have the model number (from the app or label), visit:

Arlo Model Comparison Page

Enter your model number or scroll through the list. You’ll see:

• Release date
• Video resolution (720p, 1080p, 2K, 4K)
• Field of view
• Battery life
• Weather resistance
• Smart features (e.g., color night vision, AI detection)

This helps you understand what your camera can (and can’t) do—especially if you’re considering upgrades.

Personal Insight: I discovered my “Arlo Pro 3” was actually a Pro 3 (not Pro 3S) after checking the comparison chart. The Pro 3S has better battery and HDR. Now I know which one to replace first when upgrading.

Step 7: Check Your Purchase History or Receipts

If you’re still unsure, dig into your email inbox or online account (Amazon, Best Buy, Arlo.com).

Search for:

• “Arlo”
• Your order number
• The word “camera”

Most receipts list the full product name (e.g., “Arlo Pro 5S 2K Wire-Free Security Camera”). This is a foolproof backup method.

Pro Tip: Save your Arlo purchase receipts in a dedicated folder (Google Drive, iCloud, etc.). I keep a “Smart Home” folder—it’s saved me during returns, warranty claims, and tax season.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

After helping dozens of friends and family identify their Arlo cameras, I’ve seen the same mistakes over and over. Here’s how to avoid them:

1. Don’t Rely on Camera Nicknames

You might have named a camera “Front Door” or “Backyard,” but that doesn’t tell you the model. Nicknames are for convenience, not identification.

Always check the Device Info section. I once thought I had three Arlo Pro 4s—only to find one was actually a Pro 3. Oops.

2. Beware of “Arlo Pro” vs. “Arlo Pro 5S”

“Arlo Pro” is a series, not a model. The current version is the Arlo Pro 5S (2026), which has:

• 2K HDR video
• 160° field of view
• Improved night vision
• Better battery (up to 6 months)

Older models like Pro 3, Pro 4, or Pro 5 (non-S) lack these features. Confusing them can lead to wrong expectations or incompatible accessories.

3. Check Firmware, Not Just Model

Two cameras with the same model number can behave differently if one has outdated firmware. In the Device Info menu, check the Firmware Version.

If it’s not the latest, go to Settings > Device Info > Update Firmware. New firmware can unlock features or fix bugs.

Warning: Don’t update firmware while the camera is low on battery. A failed update can brick the device.

4. Don’t Assume All “Wire-Free” Cameras Are the Same

“Wire-Free” just means no power cord. But the Arlo Essential and Arlo Pro 5S are both wire-free—yet very different.

• Essential: 1080p, 130° FOV, basic night vision
• Pro 5S: 2K, 160° FOV, color night vision, AI detection

Knowing the exact model helps you choose the right replacement batteries, mounts, or solar panels.

5. Use the Arlo Support Site for Edge Cases

If your camera shows “Unknown” or a weird model number, visit Arlo Support.

Use the “Identify My Device” tool. Upload a photo of the camera or enter the serial number. Arlo’s team can often tell you the model and production year.

Personal Insight: I once had a camera with a scratched label. Arlo support identified it from the serial number in 2 hours. Saved me a $100 replacement.

FAQs About How to Know What Arlo Camera I Have in 2026

Q: Can I identify my Arlo camera without the app?

Yes, but it’s harder. You can:

• Check the physical label (model/serial number)
• Search your email receipts
• Use the Arlo web portal (my.arlo.com)

But the app is the fastest and most accurate. If the camera is offline, the web portal still shows model info if it was ever synced.

Q: What if my camera shows “Unknown” in the app?

This usually means:

• The camera was reset but not re-added to your account
• It’s a new camera not yet set up
• It’s a third-party device using Arlo’s platform (rare)

Try removing it and re-adding it via the app. If it still says “Unknown,” contact Arlo support with the serial number.

Q: Are Arlo model numbers the same across countries?

Mostly, yes. But some regions have slight variations. For example:

• U.S. models often end in “-US”
• EU models end in “-EU”
• UK models end in “-UK”

The core model (e.g., VMC5040) is the same, but regional versions may have different certifications or accessories. Check Arlo’s regional support site for details.

Q: Can I tell the model by the app’s thumbnail image?

Sometimes. Newer models have unique thumbnails (e.g., Ultra 2 has a silver ring). But older models or firmware bugs can show generic images.

Don’t rely on this. Always check Device Info. I’ve seen three different models show the same thumbnail.

Q: What if I have a camera from a bundle?

Bundles (like “Arlo Pro 5S 3-Camera Kit”) often include the same model. But not always. I bought a “Pro 5S bundle” and got two Pro 5S and one older Pro 4—because it was on clearance.

Check each camera individually. Don’t assume uniformity.

Q: How often should I check my camera models?

Once a year is good. Especially before:

• Upgrading firmware
• Buying accessories
• Filing a warranty claim
• Planning a home security overhaul

It takes 2 minutes and can save you time, money, and frustration.

Q: Can I rename my camera in the app?

Yes! Tap the camera, go to Settings > Camera Name, and edit it. I recommend using names like:

• “Front Door – Arlo Pro 5S”
• “Backyard – Arlo Essential”

This way, you’ll know what Arlo camera you have in 2026 at a glance—no digging required.

Final Thoughts

Figuring out how to know what Arlo camera I have in 2026 isn’t rocket science—it’s just about knowing where to look. The Arlo app’s Device Info section is your best friend. It’s fast, free, and always up to date.

Whether you’re troubleshooting, upgrading, or just curious, take 5 minutes to check each camera. Write down the model and serial number. Save it somewhere safe.

And if you ever feel overwhelmed? Breathe. You’ve got this. I did it with a toddler on my lap and a dog barking at the camera—if I can do it, you can too.

Now go check that backyard camera. Is it a Pro 5S or a Pro 3? Once you know, you’ll sleep better at night—literally. Because the right camera means the right protection.

Stay safe, stay informed, and happy spying. (The legal kind, of course.)

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