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Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2 were once popular choices for people who wanted battery-powered security cameras without complicated wiring. They look similar and share several core features, but the Pro 2 introduced better resolution, a wider viewing angle, and additional recording options.
However, neither model should now be treated as a current buying recommendation. Arlo Pro reached End of Life in 2023, followed by Arlo Pro 2 in 2025. This updated Arlo Pro vs Arlo Pro 2 comparison explains their historical differences, what End of Life means for existing owners, and when upgrading makes more sense.
Important update: Arlo moved the Pro VMC4030 to End of Life on July 1, 2023, and the Pro 2 VMC4030P on January 1, 2025. Arlo says many EOL devices may continue performing core functions, but regular firmware updates, bug fixes, new features, and replacement hardware are no longer guaranteed. See the official Arlo End-of-Life policy for details.
This comparison is based on current Arlo support documents and historical product information. We did not conduct new hands-on testing of these discontinued cameras in 2026.
Arlo Pro vs Arlo Pro 2: Quick Comparison
| Feature | Arlo Pro | Arlo Pro 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | VMC4030 | VMC4030P |
| Release year | 2016 | 2017 |
| Maximum resolution | 720p | 1080p |
| Field of view | 110 degrees | 130 degrees |
| Power | Removable rechargeable battery or USB power | Removable rechargeable battery or USB power |
| Connection | Compatible Arlo Base Station or SmartHub | Compatible Arlo Base Station or SmartHub |
| Two-way audio | Yes | Yes |
| Night vision | Yes | Yes |
| Three-second Look Back | No | Yes, with continuous AC power |
| Activity zones | No comparable original feature | Available with continuous AC power |
| Historical CVR support | No | Available with continuous AC power and an eligible plan |
| End-of-Life date | July 1, 2023 | January 1, 2025 |
Specifications in this table are based on Arlo’s current camera product lineup reference and legacy product documentation.
What Do Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2 Have in Common?
Both cameras use a removable rechargeable battery, allowing them to operate without a permanent power cable. They can also receive USB power, which can reduce the inconvenience of removing and charging batteries. Arlo lists the same 7.2V, 2440mAh rechargeable battery specification for both models.
The two cameras also provide two-way audio, infrared night vision and motion-triggered monitoring. Both require a compatible Arlo Base Station or SmartHub rather than connecting directly to a home Wi-Fi router.
Their compact design and wire-free installation made them useful for entrances, driveways and other areas where running a cable would be difficult. However, actual battery runtime always depends on recording frequency, live-view use, temperature, signal strength and camera settings.
Key Differences Between Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2
Video Resolution and Viewing Angle
Video quality is the clearest difference. The original Arlo Pro records at a maximum resolution of 720p, while the Pro 2 supports 1080p. The extra resolution can make the Pro 2 footage more useful when reviewing a person, vehicle or other detail.
The Pro 2 also has a 130-degree field of view compared with the Pro’s 110-degree view. This allows the newer model to cover a wider area from a single position. Wider coverage is helpful near a porch or driveway, although subjects near the edge of the frame may appear smaller.
These specifications do not mean that Pro 2 footage will always be clear. Camera position, distance, lighting, network conditions and compression can all affect the visible detail.
Three-Second Look Back
Arlo Pro 2 introduced a Look Back function that could capture the three seconds immediately before a motion-triggered event. This helped provide more context around what caused a recording.
The camera had to be continuously connected to AC power for this function. Battery operation alone did not provide the same feature. Because Pro 2 is now an EOL product, owners should check the Arlo app and their current service eligibility instead of assuming every historical feature remains available.
Activity Zones and Continuous Recording
When connected to AC power, Arlo Pro 2 historically supported activity zones. These allowed users to focus motion monitoring on selected parts of the image, such as a gate or walkway.
The Pro 2 also supported continuous video recording through an eligible CVR service while connected to permanent power. CVR was not a free battery-powered function and was different from ordinary motion-triggered clips.
The original Arlo Pro did not offer the same combination of Look Back, activity zones and CVR support. These features made Pro 2 the more capable model when it was actively supported.
Night Vision and Audio
Both cameras have infrared night vision and two-way audio. Although the Pro 2 records at a higher maximum resolution, neither model has the integrated spotlight and color night vision found on many newer Arlo cameras.
Night performance also depends heavily on placement. Nearby walls, roof edges or reflective objects can cause glare and reduce visibility. The higher resolution of the Pro 2 does not automatically solve poor positioning or insufficient lighting.
Base Station Compatibility
Neither camera is designed as a direct-to-Wi-Fi model. Both need a compatible Arlo Base Station or SmartHub.
Arlo’s current compatibility information still lists Pro and Pro 2 support for selected hubs, including some VMB4000-series models. Compatibility should be checked against the exact hub model before purchasing any used or replacement camera. A compatible base station does not reverse the cameras’ EOL status.
What About Free Cloud Storage?
Older Arlo Pro marketing often emphasized seven-day rolling cloud storage. That benefit should not be presented as a guaranteed offer for every user in 2026.
Legacy account eligibility, current plans and available features can differ. Arlo’s EOL policy also states that services and bundled offerings may be migrated or replaced with the closest equivalent. Existing owners should check their account inside the Arlo Secure app before relying on cloud recording.
A compatible Base Station may support local USB storage, but the available options depend on the exact base-station model. Local recordings may also be accessed differently from recordings shown in the Arlo app’s cloud Feed.
Should You Buy Arlo Pro or Arlo Pro 2 in 2026?
For most shoppers, neither is a sensible new purchase. Used or renewed units may still appear online, but several risks come with buying an EOL security camera:
- Regular firmware and feature updates are no longer expected.
- Replacement cameras, batteries and other original parts may become harder to find.
- Historical cloud features may not apply to a new account.
- Used cameras may have battery wear or account-removal problems.
- Newer models provide higher resolution and more modern detection features.
If the two models are being compared only on historical performance, Arlo Pro 2 is clearly more capable. It has 1080p resolution, a wider field of view and additional powered recording options. That advantage does not make it a strong 2026 buying recommendation.
For other current options, see our guides to the best home security camera systems and security cameras without a subscription.
Should Existing Owners Keep or Upgrade?
An existing Arlo Pro or Pro 2 does not necessarily need to be removed immediately if it remains connected, records reliably and provides the functions you need. Arlo says many EOL devices may continue supporting core functions such as live streaming and recording.
Nevertheless, you should consider upgrading if the camera frequently disconnects, its battery has deteriorated, important recordings are unreliable or your current system no longer receives the security and feature support you expect.
Before replacing the entire system, check whether your existing SmartHub supports a newer Arlo camera. Hub compatibility varies by model. You can also compare Arlo with other ecosystems in our Reolink vs Arlo comparison and Ring vs Nest vs Arlo guide.
Current Arlo Alternatives
Arlo’s current US camera lineup includes several more appropriate alternatives:
Arlo Essential Security Camera, 3rd Gen
The Essential 3rd Gen range is the more budget-focused choice. Current versions are available with HD or 2K resolution and can be considered when simple battery-powered coverage is the main goal.
Arlo Pro 6, 6th Gen
Arlo Pro 6 is a closer modern upgrade for someone who previously used a Pro-series camera. It offers 2K video and belongs to Arlo’s current supported outdoor lineup.
Arlo Ultra, 3rd Gen
The current Ultra is the premium option, providing 4K HDR video and wider coverage. It may suit large outdoor areas where additional image detail is more important, although a less expensive camera may be sufficient for smaller spaces.
Review the required hub, included accessories and current Arlo Secure plan terms before selecting any replacement. Do not assume that a camera-only listing includes a SmartHub.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2 still work after End of Life?
They may continue supporting core functions such as live streaming and recording. However, Arlo no longer promises regular firmware updates, bug fixes, new features or replacement hardware for these EOL models.
Is Arlo Pro 2 better than Arlo Pro?
Historically, yes. Arlo Pro 2 provides 1080p video, a 130-degree field of view and powered features such as Look Back and activity zones. Arlo Pro is limited to 720p and a 110-degree view.
Can Arlo Pro 2 connect directly to Wi-Fi?
No. Arlo Pro 2 connects through a compatible Arlo Base Station or SmartHub. Check the exact hub model using Arlo’s official compatibility list.
Can Arlo Pro and Pro 2 use the same battery?
Yes. Arlo lists both cameras as using the same 7.2V, 2440mAh removable rechargeable battery. Battery condition can vary considerably when buying used equipment.
Is Arlo Pro 2 worth buying used?
It is generally better to buy a current supported camera. A low used price does not eliminate concerns about battery health, account removal, limited future support, missing accessories and changing cloud-service eligibility.
Final Verdict
Arlo Pro 2 was the better camera when both models were current. Its 1080p resolution, wider view and additional powered recording features gave it a clear advantage over the 720p Arlo Pro.
In 2026, however, both cameras are End-of-Life products and should not be recommended as new purchases. Existing owners can continue using a reliable system while it meets their needs, but anyone building or expanding a security setup should choose a currently supported camera.