At DMN, we’ve been discussing the noticeable scarcity of new HomeKit camera launches recently. A significant factor concerning HomeKit Secure Video is that manufacturers often see little potential for ongoing revenue, which may explain the slowdown. However, the wait is finally over! Aqara has unveiled the new Aqara Camera Hub G5 Pro, complete with HomeKit Secure Video support. I’ve had the opportunity to test one out over the past two weeks and am eager to share my thoughts.
HomeKit Weekly is a series dedicated to smart home gadgets, automation techniques, and everything related to Apple’s smart home ecosystem.
Since 2020, I’ve been a loyal fan of Aqara products, appreciating their ability to provide excellent performance at affordable prices. With the launch of the Camera Hub G5 Pro, they’ve officially made their foray into outdoor cameras. Options for both power-over-ethernet (PoE) and Wi-Fi models are available. The G5 Pro is built for versatility, equipped with 4MP resolution and True Color Night Vision that guarantees no detail goes unnoticed, even in low light conditions. I’m truly impressed with its capabilities so far.
What’s Included in the Package
The model I’m testing is the Wi-Fi variant, but I appreciate that a PoE version is also available. For those able to install new cabling, using PoE simplifies camera power management compared to concealing a USB-C cable. Note, the camera does not come equipped with a USB-C wall adapter, so you will need to provide your own. Additionally, screws and anchors are included for mounting purposes. The PoE model is particularly useful for locations with weak Wi-Fi signals.
In terms of smart home features, the Aqara Camera Hub G5 Pro is loaded: it comes with built-in Zigbee 3.0, Acts as a Thread border router, and is Matter-compatible, ensuring seamless operation with HomeKit, Samsung, Amazon, and Google platforms. For HomeKit users, it supports HomeKit Secure Video as well. The device also allows for eMMC storage for syncing with local NAS servers. I focused my testing on the HomeKit Secure Video functionality.
If you’re utilizing the Aqara app, it offers on-device AI capable of identifying and recognizing faces, vehicles, pets, and packages. Alternatively, you’ll have access to the functionalities available through Apple’s HomeKit (which are quite similar depending on the camera in use).
Aqara Camera Hub G5 Pro: Final Thoughts
Setting up the Aqara Camera Hub G5 Pro is incredibly straightforward. The HomeKit/Matter setup code is located on the camera itself. Simply connect it to power (or PoE), wait for it to initialize, scan the code, and HomeKit will handle the onboarding seamlessly. I encountered no issues, and the entire process completed successfully on my first attempt.
The camera performs excellently during the daytime, but where it truly excels is at night. Its built-in light considerably enhances recording quality, providing remarkably clear footage. Below, you can view examples comparing this camera (with the light off) to one without it. Furthermore, the light can be controlled separately as a HomeKit accessory.
As far as outdoor HomeKit cameras go, this is currently the leading option available. Kudos to the Aqara team for addressing the market’s need for modern HomeKit Secure Video cameras designed for outdoor use, which have been sorely lacking.
You can purchase the new Wi-Fi variant of the Aqara Camera Hub G5 Pro on Amazon, available in both white and black options. The PoE model is also available for purchase on Amazon.
