What should you consider when choosing an indoor camera?
Image quality
Choose a camera with a high resolution, at least 1080p, to ensure crisp and clear images. Higher resolution provides better detail, which is important for identifying people and objects in recordings.
Night vision
To be able to monitor your home effectively even at night, the camera should have good night vision capabilities. Infrared LED lights or other technologies ensure that you get clear images even in total darkness.
Motion Detection and Notifications
A camera with reliable motion detection can send instant notifications to your phone when it detects motion. This allows you to act quickly if something happens, and you avoid unnecessary recordings.
Storage options
Check what storage options are offered. Many cameras support both cloud storage and local storage solutions such as microSD cards. Choose the one that best suits your needs and security requirements, and make sure there is enough storage space.
With a powered camera, it becomes possible to get more smart features such as pan/tilt, AI detection, command via gestures or why not let your camera act as a hub. Thanks to a constant power supply, the camera can always be active and offer real-time monitoring. In addition, some cameras can be integrated with other smart devices, such as doorbells, smoke detectors and smart lights, to create a comprehensive and interconnected system.
With advanced AI detection, some cameras can distinguish between people, animals and other objects, reducing the risk of false alarms. The PAN/TILT function allows you to remotely control the camera's field of view, allowing you to monitor larger areas and adjust the camera position. In some cases, the camera can also follow the detected object for more comprehensive monitoring. Gesture control that some cameras have provides a user-friendly way to communicate with the camera and execute specific commands without having to touch the device.
Aqara Camera Hub G3
One camera and hub in one for Aqara users
The Aqara Camera Hub G3 features 2K resolution, 110° angle and pan/tilt control. It recognizes faces, pets and gestures for automations. Easy installation with user-friendly app. Storage via Aqara Cloud, iCloud or microSD. Powerful but consider compatibility and cost.
- Resolution: 2K
- Pan: 340°
- Tilt: 45°
- FPS: 20
- Storage: Cloud, iCloud, microSD card (up to 128GB)
- WiFi: 2.4 & 5 GHz
An Aqara hub and surveillance camera in one
The Aqara G3 is perfect for those who use the Aqara ecosystem. You get both a hub and camera in the same product. With connections to Google Home, IFTTT, Amazon Alexa and HomeKit, there are many possibilities. If you don't plan on using all the features that come with the hub, it may be worth looking at a pure security camera. Here you can read our in-depth review of the Aqara Camera Hub G3.
Through the ZigBee 3.0 protocol, the camera can interact and control a wide range of smart home devices, from sensors and lighting to security systems. This makes it possible to create a complete solution for your smart home, all controlled from the Aqara app. However, only Aqara's own products can be connected to the hub.
High-resolution image and night vision
Aqara Camera Hub G3 has a resolution of 2K (2304×1296 px) which provides good images, though not as good as EUFY Camera. Its night vision allows you to see what is happening in your home even in total darkness. With a focal length of 110°, you get a wide view of the room.
Flexible camera control via app
Aqara's app offers the ability to pan the camera 360° and tilt it up and down but only 45°. This allows you to control large areas of the room. Preset angles can be used in automations, for example to point the camera at a door if someone opens it with an Aqara magnetic sensor installed.
AI-powered recognition
One of the most impressive features of the Aqara Camera Hub G3 is its AI-powered recognition using its NPU processor. The camera can identify faces and distinguish between known and unknown individuals, allowing for custom security customizations such as sending notifications if an unknown face is detected. It can also identify pets and respond to hand gestures, enabling gesture-based commands such as closing the curtains with Aqara Curtain Driver E1 or turn on the TV.
Control your devices with IR
With a built-in IR lamp, the Aqara G3 can control your “dumb” devices at home. You can add your TV or air conditioner to the Aqara app and with the help of automations make these a little smarter.
Privacy with privacy mode
The privacy mode on the Aqara Camera Hub G3 is a nice feature but one that most indoor cameras have. When this mode is enabled, the camera is rotated upwards and into the shell, making it impossible for the camera to see anything. Instead, a pair of 'eyelids' is symbolically shown.
On-premises and cloud storage
The Aqara Camera Hub G3 offers multiple storage options. Users can choose between cloud storage, which means monthly costs if you want to save more than 7 days, or local storage on a microSD card (up to 128GB). For Apple users, the option to store recorded videos in iCloud is available because the Aqara Camera Hub G3 supports Apple HomeKit Secure Video.
Advanced Timeline Feature
The Aqara Camera Hub G3 features an advanced timeline feature that enhances the user experience by allowing easy navigation through recorded events. This is especially valuable when you need to quickly return to a specific event.
Summary of Aqara Camera Hub G3
The Aqara Camera Hub G3 is an impressive product for those looking for an all-in-one solution for surveillance and home automation. Its advanced AI capabilities, home automation capabilities, and flexible storage options make it a worthwhile option. For those who prioritize a simpler monitoring solution without extra AI capabilities and home automation, other products may be more suitable. In summary, the Aqara Camera Hub G3 is a good choice for those who want a high-tech, integrated solution for their smart home and are content with products from Aqara.
Tapo C225
Versatile camera surveillance for your home
Tapo C225 is a home security camera that provides control via Tp-Link's app. It has functions such as image and sound detection, Pan and Tilt function for 360º horizontal and 149º vertical field of view. Store videos via Tapo Care or Micro SD card. 30 days trial included.
- Resolution: 2K
- Field of view: 100° (Diagonal), 83° (Horizontal), 43° (Vertical)
- Pan: 360°
- Tilt: 149°
- FPS: 15/20/25/30 (Default 15fps)
- Storage: Cloud, microSD (Up to 512GB)
- Wifi: 2.4GHz
Comprehensive monitoring
Tapo C225 is equipped with a Pan/Tilt function that provides comprehensive coverage of the room. The camera can rotate 360º horizontally and 149º vertically, allowing you to easily control the camera via the app to monitor specific areas. The camera also has digital zoom, but it is worth noting that the image quality can become slightly pixelated.
Tapo C225 is available in two versions: V1 without and V2 with HomeKit Secure Video.
AI features
The Tapo C225 offers a range of AI features that take surveillance to the next level. The camera can detect animals, people and vehicles, and you can choose the types of detections you want to activate. If a detection occurs, you will receive a notification in your phone. The camera also has various sound-sensing capabilities, including fire alarms, crying babies, broken glass, dog squeals and howling from cats. These features can be invaluable for quickly reacting to various events in the home.
Another exciting feature is the ability to set up rules for the camera via the app. You can set lines in the app that the camera watches, and if someone or something crosses the line, you'll get a notification. This is especially useful for keeping tabs on young children who are not allowed to leave a specific room.
Nightvision
The Tapo C225, like many other cameras, is equipped with an IR that guarantees monitoring in total darkness. This is crucial to being able to monitor the home around the clock and provides a clear and clear picture even during the darkest hours. To monitor children during the night, you can switch to 940nm invisible LED so as not to disturb them when they sleep.
Two-way communication and alarm
With a built-in microphone and speaker, the Tapo C225 enables two-way communication, so you can speak to people in the room when you're not at home. The camera also has a siren function to scare away intruders, with two types of siren sounds and three different sound level settings. There is also an LED light that can “dazzle” intruders in darkness, after our tests we cannot directly claim that this would have any effect rather than helping the thief to see better.
Flexible but bereft storage
A major advantage of the Tapo C225 is its storage flexibility. You can store recordings locally on a microSD card or through Tapo Care's cloud service. Tapo Care offers two plans: Premium ($39/month) with 30 days of unlimited cloud storage and Basic ($35/month) with 7 days of unlimited storage. When you purchase the camera, a 30-day Tapo Care trial period is included. Unlike other cameras, there is no free cloud storage service.
Privacy and Privacy Mode
To protect your privacy, you can easily set the camera to privacy mode. This can be done either via a physical button on the camera or through the app, giving you full control over when the camera should be active.
User-friendly app
The Tapo app has recently been updated with a new user interface that provides an improved visual experience and better ease of use. The app makes it easy to manage different devices and features, including live view and activity center. It is also compatible with Kasa devices. Here you can also create automations and control your Tapo robot vacuum cleaners.
Summary
The Tapo C225 is a well-functioning surveillance camera that covers most things you could want for home surveillance. Its camera delivers in both light and dark conditions, and its AI capabilities and flexible storage options make it a strong candidate in the market. While digital zoom may be a weakness, the camera's other features weigh up. The Tapo C225 is a great choice for those who want a reliable home monitoring solution at a good price.
Eufy Indoor Cam S350
A comprehensive indoor camera with smart security features
The Eufy Indoor Cam S350 offers outstanding video surveillance in 4K for wide angle and 2K for telephoto, as well as AI-powered motion detection. Ideal for those who want extra security and surveillance in your home.
- Resolution: 4K (tele 2K)
- Field of view: 130°
- Pan: 360°
- Tilt: 75°
- FPS: 15
- Storage: Cloud, microSD card (up to 128GB)
- WiFi: Dual-Band Wi-Fi 6
High-resolution video and clear image quality
The Eufy Indoor Cam S350 delivers tremendous image quality with both of its two lenses where every detail is clearly visible. With infrared nightvision, the camera can also deliver crisp images even in total darkness. Unfortunately, color night vision is missing on this device which had raised the rating a bit.
Advanced motion detection with AI
Even the Eufy Indoor Cam S350 is equipped with AI-based motion detection. The camera can distinguish between people, pets and other objects, reducing the number of false alarms. The camera can also follow the detected object with its pan and tilt.
Two-way communication for increased interaction
With the built-in microphone and speaker, you can communicate directly through the camera from your mobile. It's especially useful for talking to family members or deterring potential intruders. Two-way communication works smoothly and with minimal delay.
Integration with smart home systems
The Eufy Indoor Cam S350 works with both Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, we haven't tested this yet but have received reports that getting it to work smoothly with Google Home can be problematic. It would have been nice to have support for Apple Secure Video, there are other Eufy cameras with this support but not this one.
Secure storage and privacy
The camera offers flexible storage with support for both local microSD cards and the Eufy cloud storage service. These options give you the opportunity to choose the storage solution that best suits your needs and security requirements. All data transfers are encrypted, which ensures high confidentiality.
HomeBase 3
If you buy HomeBase 3, you get access to additional features. You get partial 1TB of storage (with the option to upgrade to 16TB) completely without any subscription and BionicMind™ - which can learn what your family members look like and only alert if someone unknown shows up. If you buy a camera and HomeBase 3 in a package, you will save a penny, so think through your purchase first.
Easy installation and user-friendly app
Installation of the Eufy Indoor Cam S350 is easy and fast, thanks to a clear and user-friendly app. The app guides you through each step, from connecting to network to configuring settings. The interface is intuitive and easy to navigate, making it easy to manage the camera and access recordings.
Conclusion
The Eufy Indoor Cam S350 is a reliable and versatile indoor surveillance camera. With its high image quality, advanced AI capabilities and seamless integration with smart home systems, it offers both security and convenience. For those looking for a robust and easy-to-use monitoring solution, the Eufy Indoor Cam S350 is an excellent choice.
The camera's price tag is somewhat high, but given the fact that you can store movies completely free of charge and the large capacity of HomeBase 3, it's easy to get that money back.
Everything you need to know about indoor security cameras
Home security cameras are becoming increasingly popular in today's smart homes. They offer security, peace of mind and a host of smart features that make it easier to monitor and protect your home. Here is a comprehensive guide on the uses, advantages, disadvantages and important features of indoor security cameras.
Uses of an indoor camera
Indoor security cameras can be used in several ways to increase the safety and comfort of your home:
- Home monitoring when you're away: Make sure your home is safe when you're at work or on vacation. Automate camera activity according to who is at home.
- Babysitting and elderly care: Keep an eye on children or elderly family members to ensure their safety and well-being.
- Pets: Check what your pets are doing during the day and make sure they are safe, comfortable and satiated.
- Home intrusion: Prevent break-ins by monitoring entrances and windows.
Advantages of a camera in the home
Having a surveillance camera in your home comes with many advantages:
- Increased security: Prevent burglaries and other crimes by having a camera as a deterrent.
- Peace of mind: With real-time monitoring, you can quickly check the home and take action if something seems wrong.
- Smart technology: Many security cameras have smart features such as facial recognition, motion detection and the ability to control other smart devices with hand gestures, for example.
Disadvantages of home monitoring
Despite all the advantages, there are also some disadvantages of having security cameras:
- Privacy issues: Cameras can feel intrusive and affect your or your family members' sense of privacy.
- Cost: High-quality cameras can be expensive, and there may be subscription fees for cloud storage and cost for pulling electricity and ethernet.
- Technical problems: Cameras may have technical problems that require maintenance or updates.
Other smart features your indoor camera may have
Modern indoor surveillance cameras offer a range of smart features:
- Motion and sound detection: The camera starts recording or sends notifications when motion or sound is detected.
- Night vision: To be able to see clearly even in the dark.
- Two-way audio: Communicate with people or pets through the camera.
- Cloud Storage: Save recordings securely online for easy access.
- Integration with smart home systems: Connect the camera to your smart home system to automate and control other devices.
How to choose the right indoor surveillance camera
When choosing a surveillance camera for indoor use, there are several factors to consider. The resolution is one of the most important aspects, since a higher resolution provides better image quality and makes it easier to identify details. The field of view also plays a big role; a wide field of view covers more of the room and reduces the need for multiple cameras. When it comes to storage, you have the choice between local storage, such as on an SD card, and cloud storage depending on your specific needs and security requirements. Of course, price is also a factor to consider. Compare the price with the features offered to ensure you get the best value for money. Finally, compatibility is an important aspect. Make sure the camera is compatible with your current smart home system for a smooth integration.
Installation of surveillance camera for indoor use
To maximize the effectiveness of your security cameras, proper installation is crucial. Place the camera high up in a corner to get a good overview of the room. Make sure the camera has a stable connection to your Wi-Fi network to ensure continuous monitoring. The power supply is another important aspect; make sure the camera has a reliable power source, be it via electrical outlet or battery. Once the camera is installed, set its settings via the manufacturer's app to optimize performance.
Safety Aspects to Consider
When installing a surveillance camera, it is important to consider several security aspects. Use strong passwords and change them regularly to protect the camera from unauthorized access. Keep your camera firmware up to date to protect against vulnerabilities and ensure your cloud storage provider has strong security measures in place to protect your recordings.
Maintenance of your security camera
To ensure that your camera works optimally, it is important to perform regular maintenance. Keep the lens clean to ensure clear image quality and ensure all cables and connections are secure. Install software updates as they become available and check battery level regularly if your camera is battery powered. Charge if necessary to avoid interruptions in monitoring unless you have a camera with a constant power supply, which most indoor cameras have.
Integrity and Ethics in the Use of Surveillance Cameras
It is important to consider privacy and ethics when using CCTV cameras. Inform all family members about the presence and purpose of the cameras to avoid misunderstandings. Respect privacy by avoiding installing cameras in private areas such as bedrooms and bathrooms. Follow local laws and regulations around surveillance to avoid legal problems and ensure that your use of the cameras is legal and ethical.
The Future of Indoor Surveillance Cameras
The technology of surveillance cameras is constantly evolving and the future looks bright. Future cameras will be smarter using AI and machine learning, making them better at analysing images and identifying potential threats. Security cameras will also integrate even more with other home security systems, creating a more cohesive and effective security solution. Enhanced encryption and security technology will also make cameras even more secure against cyber threats.
Summary
Indoor surveillance cameras are a powerful tool to improve the security and convenience of your smart home. By understanding the different uses, advantages and disadvantages, and the smart features available, you can make an informed choice and find the best camera for your needs. Whether you want to monitor your home when you're away, keep an eye on your loved ones, or integrate with your smart home system, there's a surveillance camera that can meet your requirements.
By considering security aspects and choosing the right model, you can take full advantage of the benefits of a surveillance camera in your home. Explore the market and find a camera that fits your needs to create a safer and smarter home.
