That’s a pretty cool benefit making it the perfect time to secure your smart home. So in this guide, I’ll explain why you should use HomeKit Secure Video and which security cameras work with Apple HomeKit.
Why use HomeKit Secure Video?
HomeKit Secure Video is incredibly easy to set up, use, allows you to store your security camera footage on Apple’s servers with the assurance that no one, not even Apple, will see it. When you get the right camera for it, you often don’t need any third-party apps. Simply plug in the camera, scan its HomeKit code using Apple’s Home app, and you’re good to go. Moreover, HomeKit Secure Video cameras can act as motion sensors and light sensors that can be used to trigger HomeKit automation. The Apple Home app will suggest automatons that you might want to try. Moreover, the camera can detect your or your family’s presence and set itself into one of four modes depending on whether you’re home or away:
Off – It’s completely disabled. Detect Activity – No streaming or recording, but the camera can use its sensors to trigger automation or send notifications. Stream – Video will not be recorded, but approved users can view a live stream. Stream and allow recording – The live stream is accessible, and the camera will record footage based on your settings.
To use HomeKit Secure Video, you need at least one supported camera. Take your pick from the best HomeKit cameras listed below:
1. Logitech Circle View camera: Editor’s choice
Specifications
Resolution: 1080p Field of view: 180 degrees Live view with 2-way audio End-to-end encrypted secure video 15 feet night vision
The Logitech Circle View Camera tops our HomeKit secure video cameras list because it works well for indoor and outdoor surveillance. It helps you keep an eye on your home with high-quality video for razor-sharp details in both sunlight and shadows. It is based on motion detection and has a durable weatherproof IP64-rated body. Moreover, it includes handy features like instant notifications and a built-in microphone for two-way audio, making it easy to communicate with those around the camera. You can also quickly tilt it down when you need some privacy. Lastly, it has a premium finish with a sturdy metal base, matte black color, and a power cable that blends seamlessly in any space.
Suitable for both indoors and outdoors Suitable for daylight and nighttime Excellent build quality and durability Tilt for privacy
The USB power cord is not very long
2. eufy Security 2K Pan and Tilt: Best indoor home security camera
Specifications
Resolution: 2K Field of view: 125 Pan and Tilt: 360° Horizontal, 96° Vertical Infrared Night Vision (32.8 feet) 2-way audio
Here’s an indoor HomeKit-compatible camera that boasts a unique follow feature. This means it can automatically track and follow a moving person or object. Further, the lens can pan 360° horizontally or tilt up to 96° vertically to get a clear view of an entire room. It captures crisp 2K video, and when you need privacy, the lens rotates inward to shut off. The on-device AI can tell the difference between humans and pets. And you can speak in real-time to anyone nearby via the camera’s built-in two-way audio. You can customize the notifications you get and choose to store footage locally by inserting an SD card. Pretty neat and nifty!
Tracking and follow feature Pan and tilt for a flexible field of view Local storage possible with an SD card Works in low light
Needs the eufy Security app and account to set up
3. Netatmo smart camera: Best for outdoor surveillance
Specifications
Resolution: 1080p Field of view: 100 degrees Long-range detection: 20 m IR night vision: 15 m/50 ft Encrypted MicroSD card included Weatherproof: HZO protection
Here’s the best Homekit outdoor camera that includes a 120-watt LED floodlight. It can be conveniently set up using the wiring from existing light fixtures. The smart floodlight automatically turns on when needed to deter unwanted visitors, and you’ll get instant alerts on your smartphone to let you know what is happening outside your home. Further, it can distinguish between people, cars, and animals and will only provide updates on what you choose to monitor. Price: $299.99
Includes floodlight Includes encrypted micro SD card for local storage Easy installation Highly customizable alerts
No siren Lacks 2-way audio
4. eufyCam 2C 2-cam kit: Best wireless HomeKit camera
Specifications
Resolution: 1080p Field of view: 125-degree 6-month battery life IP67 Weatherproof 2-way audio
This one’s a wireless home security camera that offers six months of battery life with 1080p HD video resolution and night vision. It also includes a built-in floodlight for extra security and color night vision to let you know what’s going on at any time. Further, it has an IP67 weather-resistance rating, so you can rest assured about using it outdoors in any conditions. Human detection technology enables this security camera to intelligently detect body shape and face patterns to ensure that you are only alerted when a person approaches rather than a stray cat or some object.
Entirely wireless with six months battery life Includes spotlight Local storage of 3-months’ recordings on SD card
No theft protection
5. Aqara security camera: Best for complete home automation
Specifications
Resolution: 1080p Field of view: 140 degrees Night vision 2-way audio
This HomeKit Secure Video camera doubles up a hub for other Aqara devices. Thus, it offers seamless integration across Aqara’s sensors and home automation devices such as home guard, data reporting, and smart control. Further, this camera boasts an onboard siren for you to create an affordable DIY security system using Aqara motion sensors or door and window sensors without a monthly subscription. It’s a great choice because it supports 1080p video, night vision, and 2-way audio. Moreover, it’s easy to set up with a built-in magnet that can be placed on the surface of metal objects. An additional advantage is that it works with the IFTTT automation app.
Comprehensive security system Works with other Aqara Zigbee devices Easy to set up and use Works with IFTTT
You need the Aqara app and an account to set it up
6. eufy Security Solo IndoorCam C24: Best budget option
Specifications
Resolution: 2K Field of view: 105° horizontal, 57° vertical Night vision: 32.8 feet 2-way audio
Even if you’re on a budget, it’s still possible to secure your home. Check out this eufy HomeKit Secure Video camera that provides high-definition 2K visuals at an affordable price. It also includes premium features such as two-way audio, Home app controls, local storage, night vision, and of course, HomeKit Secure Video. Like other eufy cameras, it boasts on-device AI to determine whether a human or pet is present and only records when an event of interest occurs. It’s perfect for keeping an eye on any room!
Affordable price Local storage on SD card Decent video quality
Stops continuous recording if it loses connection to the internet
7. ecobee SmartCamera: All-in-one protection
Specifications
Resolution: 1080p Field of view: 180 degrees Night vision 2-way audio
This ecobee SmartCamera is another security solution that integrates with the ecobee SmartThermostat and the ecobee Haven home monitoring service. This ensures whole-home coverage 24/7 through motion and occupancy sensing. However, even if you don’t use the Haven system, this camera offers 1080p video and a slick motion tracking feature. SmartCamera also automatically shuts off when family members arrive for privacy’s sake. But what makes this stand apart is the smoke alarm detection that alerts you if the camera detects a sound from your smoke alarm.
Works with other ecobee home automation devices Easy installation Smoke alarm detection
Performance in low-light conditions could be better
8. Logitech Circle View wired doorbell: Best HomeKit video doorbell
Specifications
Resolution: 1200 x 1600 Field of view: 160 degree Color night vision 4000K LED light strip that provides illumination up to 6 feet (1.8 meters )
Keep your deliveries secure with the 160-degree field of view on this nifty video doorbell. It provides a head-to-toe image of your porch so you can keep an eye on the comings and goings. Moreover, you can use your HomePod as a chime when someone arrives. The slim, unobtrusive design can easily fit on most doorframes using your home’s existing doorbell wiring. And you can know who’s at the door thanks to rich notifications with Face Recognition sent directly to your Apple devices. All in all, it’s a must-have for any modern home. Check out on Apple.com
Superior motion sensing, facial recognition, and privacy features Excellent night vision Sleek, unobtrusive design Designed for Apple users
A bit complicated to install
That wraps up my list of the best HomeKit Secure Video cameras. Buy or upgrade yours now to make the most of iCloud+ storage and safeguard your home. Check our complete list of HomeKit-compatible devices. If you’ve got any other questions, let me know in the comments below. You may also like:
