Review on Aqara Security Camera: HomeKit Secure Video Indoor Camera with Night Vision and Two-Way Audio by Phil Kowal

This rating is based on first reactions as I have just bought it. But it's worth mentioning. I bought these because the price is ⅓ the price of other HSV cameras. It replaced the Logi Circle 2, which cost almost $200 and gave up the ghost after a year and a half of use, and the company said the warranty was out and there was nothing they could do (hardware failure on their part). So I would never give them my business again. First Impression: - FAST SETUP. The big advantage of this camera for me was that you do NOT have to download its app to connect it to the HSV. I originally wanted to buy another brand, but after hearing about their questionable app practices, I decided to spend the extra $15 and buy this one. A simple scan code on the bottom of the camera for setup. If it doesn't connect quickly, you can also reset it quickly. - Field of view: I think this camera has a better field of view than the Logi Circle. I can see the entire parking space I'm standing in front of. - HomeKit Automation: A really important feature I wanted was the ability to have a live view in the Home app to control all my cameras. It does exactly that. You can delineate traffic areas to get only the shots you need. In addition, this acts as a motion sensor, which in combination with the automation is a dream team. Here's what I set up: motion detected between 1:00am and 6:00am, turn on light in room for 5 minutes. Great for deterring burglars and making them think their movement woke you up! - Bonus: Uses a standard USB dongle instead of a bulky plug. You can also connect a memory card to back up recordings.