Whether to choose Arlo Ultra 2 or Pro 4

[KellasCat]

I have a very large event venue barn. I like the better video on the Ultra 2, but like that the Pro 4 connects directly to wifi. With such a large space, one Arlo base station won't cut it. Can I have multiple Arlo base stations on my network? Can they all be hard-wired? Also, can someone explain to me the advantages of the base station.

[StephenB]

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@KellasCat wrote:

 Can I have multiple Arlo base stations on my network? Can they all be hard-wired? 

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You can.  Each has to be connected to your network via ethernet (either directly or through an WiFi extender or Power-line ethernet).

The multiple bases do not form a mesh.  Cameras are explicitly paired with bases.

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@KellasCat wrote:

Also, can someone explain to me the advantages of the base station.

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One benefit is that bases offer local storage (either USB or a microSD card).  This can serve as backup to the Arlo cloud repository.  Smarthubs (VMB4540 and VMB5000) allow you to access the local storage directly from the Arlo app (not the web interface).  The other hubs require you to eject the USB device from the base, and connect it to a PC.

A second benefit is that all the cameras paired with a base can be controlled/scheduled together.  Without a base, you need to set up a schedule for each camera separately.

A third benefit is that bases usually give you a bit longer battery life for the cameras - they use a closed wifi network that has been tuned/tweaked to optimize power use.  

Partner integration (homekit for example) requires a base station.

The downsides are that you need more equipment, and you don't have any tools to control wifi interference with your normal home network. 

[KellasCat]

Thanks for the advice. I am about ready to buy...however, I see limited Ultra 2's for sale online, and although I do see a kit for sale with 4 cameras...and a "smart hub"...it does not say which hub it is. I'm pretty sure I want the VMB5000. How can I tell what I'm getting? Most places just say "smart hub included".

[ShayneS]

Do you happen to have the link, I can try to see what it may be.

[KellasCat]

https://www.amazon.com/Arlo-Spotlight-Camera-Security-System/dp/B08F4WP2WL/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=arlo+...

[StephenB · Accepted solution]

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@KellasCat wrote:

https://www.amazon.com/Arlo-Spotlight-Camera-Security-System/dp/B08F4WP2WL/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=arlo+...

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The second image in the amazon link says this bundle is the VMS5440.

The Arlo web site says the VMS5440 bundle includes the VMB5000 base:

You can double-check by browsing to https://www.arlo.com/en_eu/cameras/arlo-ultra.  Scroll down towards the bottom, and you will see "Arlo Ultra Packages".  The VMS5440 is the second package from the left.

[mjkobe]

I love the pro4!!!