Arlo Pro 4 with no base station?

[OzelnHaxy]

I really want to get Arlo Pro 4 but the no base station thing worries me? How do you feel about all the processing power housed in each camera?

I don't really want the ultra but I may need to for a base station?

[StephenB · Accepted solution]

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@OzelnHaxy wrote:

I really want to get Arlo Pro 4 but the no base station thing worries me? How do you feel about all the processing power housed in each camera?

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The base station doesn't change the processing needed in the camera.  The main advantages are

• battery life tends to be a bit better if the base is reasonably close to the camera (in my experience anyway).
• a base provides local storage, which is essential if you don't want a subscription, and useful even if you do.

The Pro 4 can be paired with a base station (it supports both modes).  It has been hard to get stand-alone smarthubs recently (I suspect supply chain problems).  So I suggest starting with just the camera(s) now, and decide on adding a smarthub later on. 

Another option is to purchase a Pro 3 kit.  The Pro 3 has the same features are the Pro 4, except it requires a base, and cannot be paired with your home wifi.  If you do get a kit, and want the option to drop the subscription, then look for a kit that uses the VMB4540 smarthub (and not the VMB4000 or VMB4500 base).