Ultra 2 Hub Questions: Range and Comparison

[mweitz]

Hey everyone!  I hope you're all doing well.

I currently have 6 Pro cameras connected to my VMB4000 Smart Hub, but I'm considering upgrading to Ultra 2 cameras for better performance and features; however, I have a few questions regarding the Smart Hub options and range capabilities.  I would greatly appreciate your thoughts on the matter.

1. Difference between VMB5000 Smart Hub and VMB4540 Smart Hub:
I'm wondering what the main differences are between the VMB5000 Smart Hub and the VMB4540 Smart Hub.  Are there any significant upgrades or new features introduced in the VMB5000 that I should be aware of?

2. Range and Signal Issues:
Currently, I'm experiencing a delay in the video stream and occasional signal drops with my Pro camera that is located the furthest from the VMB4000 Smart Hub.  This camera is installed on the exterior of my house.  My question is whether either the VMB5000 or the VMB4540 Smart Hub offers a better range compared to the VMB4000 Smart Hub?  Will upgrading to one of these hubs potentially resolve the streaming delay and signal drop issues I'm currently facing?

Thanks!  I look forward to hearing your thoughts!

[StephenB]

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@mweitz wrote:

My question is whether either the VMB5000 or the VMB4540 Smart Hub offers a better range compared to the VMB4000 Smart Hub?  !

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Arlo doesn't claim more range, and in my experience all the hubs cover about the same distance.

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@mweitz wrote:

I'm wondering what the main differences are between the VMB5000 Smart Hub and the VMB4540 Smart Hub. 

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The VMB5000 has dual-band wifi (both 2.4 ghz and 5 ghz); the VMB4540 is only 2.4 ghz.  Dual-band can get in the way if you are looking for maximum range.  2.4 ghz carries further.

The VMB4540 uses USB to connect local storage.   The VMB4000 has a  microSD slot instead.

[mweitz]

The Smart Hubs connect to the Internet via WiFi now?  That's great!  My old Smart Hub had to be plugged into my router via an ethernet cable.

Will the VMB5000 allow me to choose which band to use?

[StephenB]

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@mweitz wrote:

The Smart Hubs connect to the Internet via WiFi now? 

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No.  I was talking about the closed wifi the bases/smarthubs create for the cameras.

All bases and smarthubs connect to your router via ethernet.

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@mweitz wrote:

Will the VMB5000 allow me to choose which band to use?

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No.  Like the older bases, you have no control over the closed wifi settings.

[mweitz]

So if I have range anxiety, I should opt for the 4000-series one.

[StephenB]

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@mweitz wrote:

So if I have range anxiety, I should opt for the 4000-series one.

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I would, unless you need 5 ghz to avoid congestion.

[mweitz]

Shoot... now that's the question I guess... if I go with the VMB4540, how will I know if I'm experiencing congestion.  Are the signs immediate?  Would I be able to return the VMB4540 in time for a refund and get the VMB5000?