Is it worth it to go the Arlo Pro Base Station for $40?

[thefred]

I am going to add 2 Arlo Pro cameras to my current system of regular Arlo cameras.  I can buy the 2 Arlo Pro cameras for $380 or purchase the New base station and 2 Arlo Pro cameras for $240.  Is it worth the additional $40?

[reynoldswrap0]

I think you mean $420, yes? If it's just $40 more, there are some things to consider. With a new base station, you will have smart siren capability (being able to activate through the mobile app, and setting as a response to an audio/motion trigger in the system) and can also connect USB storage for local video archiving. A second base may also prove useful if you need to extend your reach throughout your property. If you buy two of the add-on cameras you will get a charging cable/adaptor with each one and that could come in handy for charging multiple cameras at once. With the first option you would also get one charging cable/adaptor as well.
It's up to you, but I'd say get the new base if you can swing it because of the added features.

[thefred]

Thanks.  Yes, I did mean $420.  Are you saying that I would  be able to use both bases to get better coverage? Do the two bases sync/"talk" to each other?

[reynoldswrap0]

I don't have personal experience with doing so, but yes you can use multiple bases at the same location to spread out your coverage/connection to your cameras. Each base needs a wired internet connection though, so you may need to also purchase a WiFi range extender you can plug the base's Ethernet cable into if you want to avoid running wire across the house. Those gizmos look quite affordable on Amazon.
Remember your Arlo subscription is primarily based on the number of active cameras you run. Set up the new base under the same Netgear username you're currently using and you should see them all together in the app.

[jguerdat]

Exactly. The only thing to remember is that cameras on one base can't be used in rules along with cameras on another base. Take that into consideration when deciding which cameras go with which base.

[TomMac]

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thefred wrote:

Thanks.  Yes, I did mean $420.  Are you saying that I would  be able to use both bases to get better coverage? Do the two bases sync/"talk" to each other?

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Not really... as mentioned , there is no limit to number of bases... AND it's the only real way to expand your coverage of an area with cameras...

BUT each base is sort of it's own domain.  Meaning, each base must be armed and can run it's own schedule, the camera and bases all appear in the app/web prgm but are separate when it comes to commands/rules/modes

Mine that the bases don't have to be in the same location tho either...so it can be a plus or minus.

.In my case, I have a base now at one end of the home and one in the center... I can arm the center base which covers the outside cameras and den/living areas only. The far end base covers mostly the bedrooms which i don't use when home of course...so it adds another level to modes if use correctly ( ie you can use multi schedules with two bases, something not possible with one base )

When out of the home I have to arm both bases to cover in and out... not really a pain, but there is an extra step.