I need to buy a doorbell for one of our doors, and it might as well be one with a camera.
Would you recommend one like that? Preferably with HomeKit integration, so it automatically pops up on the computer while you’re working, or on the Apple TV when you’re watching TV — or is that just a utopia?
I have Ring cameras myself, two of them being doorbells. They have no HomeKit integration that I’m aware of, however the Ring app does give me all the notifications/pop-ups that I could ask for. I have a total of 7 outdoor cameras (none indoor) and pay an annual subscription of, IIRC, $99 a year. There are aspects of the system that at times are annoying, but overall I am very satisfied with choosing Ring.
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One thing to consider here is user privacy. Ring is a very popular option but owned by Amazon. Everyone’s risk profile is different, but privacy is often overlooked with these devices. Just something to be aware of – each person has different priorities.
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I’d recommend the Aqara models. I have the G4, it’s a great model, integrates with HomeKit and can save it’s data into iCloud rather than Aqara’s add on services.
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I replaced my Ring doorbell with a Tapo one, preferred the local data storage and no cloud fees.
No HomeKit support though.
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I have been happy with the Aqara G410 - using iCloud storage.
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Don’t buy a Blink. I made that mistake.
Katie
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One-off, I don’t have any one favorite.
If you think this will grow into a multi-camera “hobby” or security interest, I would definitely suggest you look at Ubiquiti UniFi.
Great cameras and NVR systems that operate fully local without any cloud, subscriptions, or privacy issues.
Not HomeKit, but some people are fine with that or using Home Assistant or other bridges to bring them into HomeKit.
Not well known- you DON’T need an existing Ubiquiti UniFi network to use the cameras, but it will tempt you to consider wading deeper into the UniFi cult, but the recently new “all-in-one” UniFi camera kits are very enticing.
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I have just invested in Ubiquiti and I’m happy to follow that route!
Is this the one I should invest in?
When I have read about these, I’m uncertain thay they talk with my HomeKit system. Do I need anything special?
That one does work with UniFi Protect (the marketing name for their camera systems), but that particular model is aimed for business and commercial use as it combines a modern “key card” system for door controls with a camera for more unlock options.
I would suggest looking at the Doorbell Lite or the G4 Doorbell Pro for general use.
None work directly with HomeKit. If you like fiddling, than Home Assistant is a great option, but personally, I don’t really see a strong need to link UniFi cameras into HomeKit.
HomeKit is still limited now to 1080p resolution, far below the common 2K and 4K cameras in the market.
We are in a transition period where the Matter standard just got updated to cover Cameras, but no platform really supports that yet. It will take 6 months to 2 years before that really matures.
And, the biggest thing, is that most platform makers will not want to give up subscription and cloud fees, so even when Matter cameras are supported, the features may be limited forcing you back to the camera maker’s own apps anyway.
UniFi does not support HomeKit and has made no statement about Matter support, so plan on NO direct support from them for the foreseeable future to avoid being disappointed or frustrated if that is important to you.
Oh, all the above is “IMHO” and as this area is evolving faster now, all bets are off as to what becomes the end-state of cameras and consumer smart home systems.
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I have 3 Eufy exterior cameras. My model is HomeKit compatible. Easy to see almost immediately in Apple TV or iPhone. No fees. Reply to this if you want more details.
Aha, Eufy also have doorbell cameras. I have three exterior Eufy’s for my surroundings.
Do you charge them or replace the battery?