5 cameras? VMB4000r3

[Raison]

Can I have 5 cameras on a VMB4000r3?  I purchased with 4 cameras years ago, but would like to add a camera.  I've searched the board and got conflicting answers.  I do NOT want to sign a contract or subscription service.  I manage all these myself.

Thanks!

[StephenB]

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@Raison wrote:

Can I have 5 cameras on a VMB4000r3? 

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Yes. 

But the added camera will only have 7-day free storage if you track down a legacy camera (Pro or Pro 2).  All the currently sold cameras require a subscription for cloud storage. 

There is a direct access to local storage feature that some use instead of a subscription.  But that requires a VMB4540 or VMB5000 smarthub - it's not a feature of the VMB4000.

[Raison]

Thanks Stephen! 

So, like you say if I can find an older camera I can add it and locally store on my current unit along with 7 day cloud storage for free.  But, moving forward if I purchase any Arlo 3 and beyond I'm required to pay a subscription for cloud storage at $20 monthly with unlimited cameras with the proper base supported unit?

[StephenB]

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@Raison wrote:

if I can find an older camera I can add it and locally store on my current unit along with 7 day cloud storage for free.  

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Video from any camera connected to your base would be stored locally.  But the base has no playback function, so the only way to see those recordings is to eject the storage using the app and then attach it to a PC.

Arlo stopped offering 7-day cloud storage on new camera models back in 2018 (starting with the Ultra).  So you would need to find an older model to get the 7day storage (the Pro 2 is a better camera than the older Pro).

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@Raison wrote:

But, moving forward if I purchase any Arlo 3 and beyond I'm required to pay a subscription for cloud storage at $20 monthly with unlimited cameras with the proper base supported unit?

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There are other options.

1. You can get a new camera with a single-camera subscription.  That camera could be connected directly to your home wifi.  Current US pricing would be $10 per month (down to $8 if you choose the annual billing option).
2. You can get a VMB4540 smarthub with the new camera, and use direct access to local storage (which does not require a subscription).
3. If you are ok with browsing the recordings after the fact, you can also pair a new camera with your VMB4000 hub, and connect the USB storage to your PC when you want to look at the recordings.

[Raison]

Stephen, Thanks!  Unfortunately, the more we talk the more a get a bit confused. sorry...

1. I currently have 4 cameras in which I have access to video's within the 7 day window.  I thought the source of those videos was the cloud? 

2. You said "added camera will only have 7-day free storage if you track down a legacy camera (Pro or Pro 2)"  Is this free storage on the cloud?

3. If #1 and 2 are correct, then I can add that 5th camera to my base and get exactly what functionality I have with my current 4 cameras.  Assumes I can find a Pro or Pro 2.

[StephenB]

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@Raison wrote:

1. I currently have 4 cameras in which I have access to video's within the 7 day window.  I thought the source of those videos was the cloud? 

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It is.  But you used the phrase "locally stored' in one of your replies (post 3).  So I was trying to correct that.

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@Raison wrote:

2. You said "added camera will only have 7-day free storage if you track down a legacy camera (Pro or Pro 2)"  Is this free storage on the cloud?

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Yes.

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@Raison wrote:

3. If #1 and 2 are correct, then I can add that 5th camera to my base and get exactly what functionality I have with my current 4 cameras.  Assumes I can find a Pro or Pro 2.

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Yes.

Note Arlo stopped making the Pro in 2018, and stopped making the Pro 2 cameras in 2019.  Both are end-of-life, and Arlo is warning that some features might not work over time.  Right now a number of people are having trouble installing these cameras - hopefully Arlo will decide to fix that despite the EOL status.

One risk with used cameras is that Arlo won't let you install a camera that is in another account.   Sometimes people sell their cameas but neglect to remove them from their account first.  If that happens, you'd be stuck.

[Raison]

Thanks!!! Great information to know.

I do locally store the videos also.  Really haven't had to go back and look all these years except one time.

I've got Arlo Pro 2 (VMC4030P).  Is part number VMC4030P-100NAS the same as VMC4030P.  I'm asking because I see a new 100NAS for sale, but kind of expensive at $184.

 

[StephenB]

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@Raison wrote:

Is part number VMC4030P-100NAS the same as VMC4030P.  I'm asking because I see a new 100NAS for sale, but kind of expensive at $184.

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It's the same.  The -100NAS just means it has the North American kit. AFAIK that really just means the charger has a US plug.

[Raison]

Thanks Stephen.  You've been a great help.  I'll need to compare Arlo's current pricing and features with other manufacturers offerings now.  I'm trying to avoid subscription costs if possible.  😉