# Aqara Camera Hub G5 Pro: A Fresh Competitor in HomeKit Secure Video
In recent times, the smart home industry has experienced a clear slowdown in the introduction of new cameras that support HomeKit. This stagnation can be linked to a variety of reasons, such as manufacturers’ hesitations regarding sustainable revenue strategies. Nevertheless, the quest for advancements in this sector has come to an end. Aqara has launched the **Aqara Camera Hub G5 Pro**, a device that not only endorses **HomeKit Secure Video** but also seeks to raise the bar for outdoor monitoring.
## A Deeper Insight into Aqara
Since 2020, Aqara has established itself as a key player in the smart home sector, providing an array of cost-effective yet reliable products. The arrival of the Camera Hub G5 Pro marks the brand’s entry into outdoor camera technology, an area that has been scarce in HomeKit-compatible choices. Offered in both **Power-over-Ethernet (PoE)** and **Wi-Fi** options, the G5 Pro is tailored to accommodate different installation needs, providing homeowners with a flexible solution.
### Noteworthy Features
The Aqara Camera Hub G5 Pro features remarkable specifications that appeal to both everyday consumers and technology aficionados:
– **4MP Resolution**: This high-definition camera guarantees sharp and clear videos, enabling users to catch every detail.
– **True Color Night Vision**: Its night vision abilities are supported by an integrated light, which significantly enhances visibility in dim circumstances.
– **Smart Home Compatibility**: The camera is compatible with **Zigbee 3.0**, **Thread**, and **Matter**, allowing integration with numerous smart home platforms, including HomeKit, Samsung SmartThings, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant.
– **HomeKit Secure Video Functionality**: This capability enables users to reliably store video clips in iCloud while taking advantage of advanced AI features like facial recognition and motion tracking.
## Unpacking the Aqara Camera Hub G5 Pro
Inside the box of the G5 Pro, users will discover:
– The camera unit (available in Wi-Fi or PoE version)
– Mounting screws and anchors
– A user guide (please note: a USB-C wall charger is not included, so users must supply their own)
The availability of a PoE version is especially advantageous for users with existing wiring setups, as it streamlines the installation process and removes the need for visible power sources.
## Installation and Configuration
Getting the Aqara Camera Hub G5 Pro up and running is a simple task. The HomeKit/Matter code is readily accessible on the camera. Users merely need to connect the device to power, scan the code with the Home app, and follow the instructions for smooth onboarding. Personally, I found the setup to be straightforward, with no complications faced during the process.
## Performance and User Feedback
The performance of the Aqara Camera Hub G5 Pro has been outstanding during my two-week testing phase. The camera provides exceptional video quality during daylight, but its performance truly excels at night. The integrated light boosts nighttime recordings, ensuring clear and detailed imagery that competes with other outdoor cameras currently available.
Moreover, the camera’s AI functionalities, found in the Aqara app, enable sophisticated detection of faces, vehicles, pets, and packages. This feature is particularly valuable for homeowners looking to elevate their security and monitoring systems.
## Conclusion: A Robust Addition to HomeKit
The Aqara Camera Hub G5 Pro stands out as a valuable contributor to the HomeKit ecosystem, addressing a crucial gap in the outdoor camera market. Its blend of sharp video resolution, night vision capabilities, and strong smart home compatibility positions it as a superb option for anyone aiming to bolster their home security.
For those keen on acquiring the Aqara Camera Hub G5 Pro, it is available in both white and black models on [Amazon](https://amzn.to/4133C8X). The PoE variant can also be purchased through [Amazon](https://amzn.to/3X8ILA7).
With the G5 Pro, Aqara has effectively met the need for contemporary, efficient outdoor surveillance solutions that work with HomeKit Secure Video, establishing itself as a prominent competitor in the smart home arena.
