These Amazon Prime deals continue to rack up with an Arlo security camera now yours for just $59.99!

This deal is part of the ongoing Amazon Prime Day party that will come to an end soon so you should definitely consider picking your camera up now before the price goes back up to the usual $100. Order now and save $40 and 40% without entering any discount codes or clipping any coupons.

More security for less 

• Best HomeKit Security Cameras

Arlo's Essential Indoor Camera is a budget option that also features plenty of bells and whistles despite its low price — and that price just got even lower of course. Those features include a 1080p camera with a 130-degree viewing angle as well as support for two-way voice chats. They can come in handy when trying to calm a noisy dog, for example.

Other features include smart alerts via the Arlo Secure plan if chosen, while a built-in siren can also be triggered should there be any unwanted guests in the room. Night vision and motion detection round out the main features, and you don't need any kind of hub to set this camera up or indeed view any of the footage it captures.

This deal applies to both the black and white versions of this camera so be sure to have your preferred one selected when adding your camera to your cart. They're both functionally identical, so the only consideration is whether the black or white will work best in your home.

Following claims that its latest Lock+ smart lock could be picked in seconds, Level has provided iMore with a statement pointing out that it received the BHMA AAA rating for strength and durability.

The company added that it takes "security very seriously and ensure[s] that Level Locks are engineered to meet or exceed the highest industry standards for residential locks."

The controversy erupted when YouTuber LockPickingLawyer shared a video of them being able to break into a Level Lock+ with just a couple of tools. They noted that the standard key and knob cylinder construction means buyers can swap them out, but Level doesn't believe that's needed. Nor should it be on a $320 lock.

"Level uses a typical type C lock cylinder from a major industry supplier and is commonly available in hundreds of lock brands on the market," Level's statement notes. It also says that "it’s no secret that any consumer grade lock cylinder can be readily picked by those with some expertise and tools."

What some may find most worrying about the video — embedded above — is that little skill appears to be required, although it's a matter of debate whether most people would be able to do what LockPickingLaywer achieves in that video.

Notably, Level points out that "lock picking accounts for only 4% of home break incidents," which might help put some minds at ease. "While it makes for an exciting headline, homes are broken in most via open doors and windows, or forced entries," Level says.

In terms of raw tech, the Level Lock+ is perhaps the best iPhone-connected smart lock around right now, thanks to its support for Apple Home Key. If Level's response puts your mind at ease, you can place an order for one of your own via Apple for $329.95.

In-home security cameras can only do so much. Even if you have one in every room, there will always be blind spots and areas that remain inaccessible to a stationary camera. But what if your security camera has wheels? For me, the biggest attraction to having an Enabot EBO Air is its ability to patrol the house, find pets or people, and even facilitate interactions and conversations from afar using the EBO iOS app.

EBO Air is a brand new model in Enabot's line of camera robots, and I feel like Enabot has only begun to realize the potential of this product. There are so many more ways a camera-bot like this could be utilized as an interactive companion for kids and pets. But even now in its 1st-generation form, EBO is an innovative and fun way to perform surveillance and create interactions in the family home, even when you are far away.

Enabot EBO Air: Price and availability

Enabot products are easily available on the Enabot website, Amazon, and B&H. The EBO Air model usually goes for $229, but right now B&H is offering EBO for only $199 as a new release deal. So at the time of this writing, B&H is the best place to buy your EBO Air. If it goes on sale on Amazon or Enabot, you can always stay up-to-date in the iMore Deals section.

Enabot EBO Air: Surveillance isn't creepy; it's fun!

There's a lot to love about little EBO. First we can talk about cute factor. The little camera-bot fits in the palm of your hand, but his lens can shoot in a surprisingly wide angle that takes in most of the room. He comes with cute feather accessories in several colors that can be placed on his head purely for the sake of fun. My kids love his funny child-like voice and playful antics. (Yes, we have gendered EBO as a boy but this little robot can be whatever you want it to be.) The bot can be programmed to come out and perform silly tricks and sound effects whenever it finds a human or pet. It will also perform these behaviors on command in remote-control mode on the iPhone app.

While the cuteness is certainly fun for kids and pets, the real value of the EBO Air is in its ability to patrol and provide surveillance. There are so many ways you can use EBO as a surveillance tool in the home, whether you're checking in to see how the kids are doing with the babysitter, making sure your pet is behaving at home alone, or keeping an eye on an elderly relative. If you can't see your kids from EBO's stationary dock, you can simply use remote control mode to drive him around the house until you find whoever it is you're looking for. Once you find them, you can talk through the bot to have a two-way conversation with people or pets. This comes in mighty handy when I'm headed home and need to send a helpful reminder to my 11-year-old in the way of, "Why are you watching TV? You need to get ready for soccer!"

It also works as a great security camera when the house is empty. I have my EBO set up with his dock facing the front door, so even when he's stationary, he can record anyone who comes in or out. You can program it so that it sends an alert whenever it detects movement. The bot can also patrol the home in security mode and send alerts whenever it detects human movement. In fact, you can even program it to follow a subject around and record their every move! This is a bit creepy but might be helpful in some security situations.

Some people like to use the EBO Air as a companion for their pets when left home alone, but I think the success of this depends on the pet. This camera bot would be great for a cat since it can move in enticing ways that encourage a good chase, and it has a laser that projects onto the floor to encourage interaction. This functionality might also work with a very playful dog, especially since the bot can be programmed to patrol the house periodically and seek out your pets. Once it finds a pet it will make animal sounds and perform cute antics to get their attention. You can also speak to your pet through the EBO. My big lazy dog, however, has very little interest in EBO. He observes it with something like disdain and ignores EBO most of the time. If I speak to him through the bot, he gets confused. This is why I think EBO's success as a pet companion will definitely depend on the personality of your pet.

Enabot EBO Air: The 'Mother, I'm lost" notification

EBO has a great talent for getting lost. When I have him set to do automatic patrols of the house, I will occasionally get a "Help!" notification on my iPhone 13 Pro to let me know that EBO is hopelessly lost and cannot find his way home. When this happens, I have to open the iOS app and look at his camera to see where he is. It's often in the corner of the balcony or bathroom that he loses his way. Then I use the remote control feature to drive him back to a place where he can "see" his home base, and from there he can hook himself back up to the charger. This only happens occasionally, and it's honestly kind of funny, but a glitch nevertheless. I'm hoping Enabot might be able to fix this problem in a future software update.

The only other minor nuisance is EBO's intolerance for dog hair. His wheels can become easily jammed with dog hair. When this happens, I have to disassemble him and pick out all the hair so he can move freely again. This seems a bit odd for a robot labeled as a pet companion, but I guess it's unavoidable in a house with as much dog hair as mine. The bright side is that Enabot provides a ton of tutorial videos on how to use EBO and how to clean out his wheels, so it's a pretty simple maintenance task that I have to perform every few weeks.

Enabot EBO Air: Competition

EBO Air is a unique and innovative device. I haven't found another product that provides the same set of features, but one similar product is the DOGNESS Smart CAM iPET Robot. This robot camera is designed more as a pet companion than a surveillance device, but it does provide more interactive skills for pets, such as a treat toss for good boys and girls. This robot does not do automatic surveillance or security alerts, however, nor is it targeted to families with kids. While the iPet Robot is pretty great for pets, I like the EBO better for kids and surveillance purposes.

Enabot EBO Air: Should you buy it?

• You have kids and and/or pets.
• You'd like patrolling video surveillance when you're not at home.
• Stationary cameras are not fulfilling your needs.

• You can't abide a lost bot sending notifications to your iPhone.
• Cleaning dog hair out of wheels seems unfeasible.

For me, any family in which the parents have to work outside of the home or travel away from their kids and/or pets, a robotic camera is an ideal addition to the home. It's also a great idea for someone who cares for a relative who is elderly or suffering from dementia. An EBO Air will allow the user to see and interact with anyone in the home from afar, even if they are in another room away from the camera charging base.

Since it is such a new product, there are occasionally little glitches, like when EBO gets lost and can't find his way back to the base. There is also some maintenance required if you have pets, since EBO's wheelhouse accumulates hair and requires regular cleaning. For me, these are insignificant complaints in comparison to the wide range of cool features that EBO offers.

In my house, EBO has become a fun electronic member of the family. I have the bot programmed to come out once a day just to zoom around and get a laugh out of my kids. I also use him often to check in on the kids when they are left alone or with a babysitter. When we travel as a family, it's comforting to have a small, silent robot patrolling my home, ready to send an alert to my iPhone at the slightest sign of movement.

Although EBO does occasionally get lost or tangled in dog hair, these are easy fixes that don't outweigh the wide range of benefits we enjoy in EBO's company. The camera-bot is both entertaining and incredibly useful. I think for a family that owns a cat, he would be even more engaging as a pet companion as well. I can say with confidence that I could never go back to stationary security camera in the house after coming to depend on our friendly neighborhood EBO.

What you need to know

• Aqara has unveiled a new smart door lock.
• The Aqara A100 Zigbee works with Apple HomeKit and Home Key.
• It means you can unlock it using an Apple Watch or an iPhone.

Aqara has today unveiled a new A100 Zigbee smart door lock that you can use to secure your home and unlock your door with an iPhone or Apple Watch.

The Zigbee is a mortise-style smart lock that has multiple means of authentication including a fingerprint, numeric passcode, Google Assistant, NFC, and Apple HomeKit as well as Siri and Apple's new Home Key protocol. The hub can connect to mobile devices and home hubs thanks to Bluetooth 5.0. It can also be used with Aqara's home app and other third-party platforms and devices.

What's more exciting is seamless integration with HomeKit and Apple's home key feature in iOS 15 that lets users unlock doors with devices like the iPhone 13 and Apple Watch Series 7, as well as Siri who can also check if your door is locked.

The A100 also features a 3D fingerprint scanner as well as permanent, one-time, or periodic passwords so you can give access to visitors or someone like a dog walker or cleaner even if you aren't home. Eight AA batteries should be good enough to keep it running for 18 months non-stop, and it can be opened with a key should the worst come to the worst.

Other features include an auto-lock, night latch knob, tamper alert, a door left open alert, and abnormal attempt alert much like the passcode on your iPhone.

The A100 Zigbee is rolling out today in Malaysia and Singapore and will expand to other Southeast Asian and Middle Eastern countries in the following months.

What you need to know

• Eve Systems has revealed a new HomeKit-enabled camera at CES 2022.
• Eve Outdoor Cam supports HomeKit Secure Video and features an integrated floodlight.
• Eve has also announced immediate availability of Eve MotionBlinds from select resellers.

Smart home accessory vendor Eve Systems has unveiled a new HomeKit security camera at CES 2022 in Las Vegas. The Eve Outdoor Cam — coming this April, features a sleek modern design, powerful integrated floodlight, and support for HomeKit Secure Video.

Eve's latest camera streams and captures events in 1080p high definition resolution at 24fps with a wide 157-degree field of view. The camera supports two-way audio for communicating with those within its view, IP55 weather resistance, and IR night vision that provides a picture in the dark up to 100-feet away.

Through HomeKit Secure Video, the Eve Outdoor Cam stores 10-days worth of events securely in iCloud. The Eve Outdoor Cam can also take advantage of other HomeKit Secure Video features such as Face Recognition and Package Detection; plus, users can tailor smart notifications that can weed out things such as cars or pets.

The Eve Outdoor Cam will be available starting April 5th for $249.95 through Eve and Amazon, followed by Apple at a later date.

In addition to the new floodlight camera, Eve has also announced that the company's MotionBlind roller shade motor technology is now available through select Coulisse window covering resellers. As with other recent Eve hardware releases, Eve MotionBlinds support Thread connectivity— a first for the smart shade category — offering quick setup, local control, and hub-free operation.

Along with Thread, Eve MotionBlinds also support the upcoming Matter smart home standard backed by Apple, Google, and Amazon. Matter essentially makes Eve MotionBlinds future-proof as users will be able to integrate their shades into all of the major smart home ecosystems, which is especially important with window sizing and custom orders.

If you are interested in Eve MotionBlinds, you can head over to motionblinds.com/eve to find a retailer in your area. In the US, Eve MotionBlinds are available through omniablinds.com and selectblinds.com/eve-motionblinds, with pricing varying depending on fabric, size, and accessory options. Stay tuned for more on Eve MotionBlinds as we are currently testing a set from Omnia Blinds, with a full review coming soon.

We know smart homes; our houses, apartments, and offices are filled with connected home accessories, including smart locks. Put simply, we've very nearly tried them all, and that's why we decided that the August Smart Lock Pro is our top pick. It's simple to install, compatible with multiple smart home systems, has an excellent design, and has an easy-to-use app. It gives you everything you need to add smart, wireless access to your home for you, your family, and your chosen guests.

Best Overall: August Smart Lock Pro

The August Smart Lock Pro is for anyone looking to simplify the process of entering and leaving their home.

If you get tired of fumbling with keys, worrying about whether you locked the door when you left the house, buying new spare keys for your children, or precariously placing a spare key in one of those entirely unsafe fake rocks, this smart lock is for you. August lets you create virtual keys for friends and family staying at your place. It also keeps tabs on the comings and goings of your household using a built-in 24/7 activity log.

Its appearance is immediately striking and will give any door a futuristic look, with your choice of dark gray or silver finishes. You can use your smartphone to unlock or lock your door remotely. Or you can set up a proximity lock: Your entry will unlock when you get approach with your phone and lock when you move away.

The August Smart Lock requires no wiring and installs using an existing deadbolt. It also works with HomeKit, Alexa, and Google Assistant, so you can control it with Siri and the Home app for iOS and just about every other smart device you own. It's powered by four AA batteries.

With its simple installation and solid locking mechanism, your August Smart Lock Pro will be up and running in no time.

Best for Nest: Nest x Yale Lock

The Nest × Yale Lock supports notifications, letting you know when someone operates the lock. You can set up passcodes that expire after a period of time if you plan on having guests or need a maintenance person to gain temporary access to your home. What's more, the lock uses geofencing tools to automatically lock when you're not around — no more forgotten doors.

The lock replaces your deadbolt, offering a tamper-proof and secure solution to keep your door locked uptight. If the lock ever senses tampering, it will send you a notification. There's also a handy feature I'm particularly excited about: If your lock ever loses power, you can use a 9-volt battery to quickly charge and unlock the door.

The Nest × Yale Lock is perfect for anyone that has Nest products in their home, and while it may not work with HomeKit, it will work with other accessories like Google Home. It's built to integrate with the system and requires the Nest Connect or Nest Guard to interface with the rest of your Nest system and connect with the Nest app. Power comes from one Lithium Polymer battery.

Nest teamed up with Yale to create this tamper-proof, key-free deadbolt that works with your existing Nest ecosystem.

Best Look: Schlage Connect

If you enjoy receiving up-to-the-minute information about the activity in your home, have a look at the Schlage Connect. It works effortlessly with Amazon Alexa, while remote access allows you to unlock your front door with just the tap of your iPhone.

This advanced smart lock has a touchscreen keypad for entering your entry code. There's also a vacation mode to disable all codes while you're away. The two-piece system is available in aged bronze, polished bright brass, or a satin nickel finish to suit your home's style.

The Schlage Connect boasts the highest safety rating possible, and a built-in alarm ready to sound just in case anyone is tampering with your locks. Another terrific feature this smart lock has is the ability to add in temporary codes, so if you go away on holidays and a neighbor needs to look after your plants or pet, you can add in a code for them, and delete it when you get back home, so they no longer have access to your house. Four AA batteries give you a year's worth of power.

The Schlage Connect smart lock with built-in alarm works with Amazon Alexa, Z-Wave, and Wink.

Best Design: Ultraloq UL3

The Ultraloq UL3 is a 5-in-1 keyless smart lock that's a great fit for indoor and outdoor smart lock installation.

It works with your iPhone, allowing you keyless entry, the ability to see who's coming in and out of a specific door, a log record of all visitors, and the ability to clone and transfer your information to a new lock if you choose to buy another.

The Ultraloq UL3 isn't just a keypad lock — it also comes with a fingerprint scanner, so if you need that extra level of security, this smart lock has you covered. You can add up to 95 fingerprints to your Ultraloq UL3.

The coolest part about the Ultraloq UL3? If you knock on your iPhone four times, even if it's in your pocket, you can open up your door. It's as simple as that. Three AA batteries give you access up to 8,000 times.

The Ultraloq UL3 is a versatile and reliable keyless smart lock that's ideal for indoor or outdoor installation.

Best Value: Samsung SHS-2920

The Samsung SHS-2920 is a reliable, sleek-looking, and easy-to-use smart lock that's battery operated with an emergency power connect in case the batteries die.

The lock is designed without a keyhole, making it accessible via touch-pad, while a magnetic sensor automatically locks the door behind you when you leave. One-touch security setup adds extra features which act kind of like a home alarm system.

The Samsung SHS-2920 is both affordable and sharp looking, making it ideal for putting on several different doors around your home — not just your front door. Silent mode means that you can put this lock on the door of your baby's room and not worry about sounds waking them up in the middle of the night. Four AA batteries are required.

This bump-proof, pick-proof digital touchscreen lock gets rid of your security worries.

Bottom line

The August Smart Lock Pro provides the most functionality for most people. It's Alexa-compatible. You can monitor, lock/unlock your door, control keyless access, and track who comes and goes from anywhere in the world using your smartphone. DoorSense tells you if your door is securely closed and locked up tight. A 24/7 activity feed keeps you updated on anything that happens near your door. Attach it to your current deadbolt so you can continue using your current keys. Set it to lock automatically when you leave and unlock automatically when you come near.

The August Smart Lock Pro is incredibly easy to install with 10 minutes and a screwdriver. Purchasing it opens you up to August's entire line of smart home products — including a smart keypad and doorbell camera. It's reliable, it's stylish, and it's perfect for anyone looking to add smart, wireless access to their home.

When it comes to choosing between two of the best HomeKit cameras — the Logitech Circle View and the ecobee SmartCamera, it essentially comes down to just two things: placement and the devices in your home. If you need a camera that works inside and out, then the Logitech Circle View takes the cake as it features weather resistance. However, if you want to share your camera's view with others outside Apple's walled garden, the ecobee SmartCamera is the better pick.

Logitech Circle View vs. ecobee SmartCamera: The breakdown

At their most basic level, the Logitech Circle View and the ecobee SmartCamera offer the same set of core features as most connected cameras today. Smart cameras give us a peek of the action in and around our homes, and they notify us the instant that someone, or something, enters the view. To get the absolute best experience, you need to pay close attention to the basics, like a camera's maximum resolution and connectivity options.

Like most tech decisions these days, you also need to consider other factors when choosing a smart camera. Something as simple as placement location or the types of phones in your home can play a critical role in how you manage, review, and share your camera's footage. We will get more into that later, but for now, let's start by looking at the specs of both cameras.

As you can see, the Logitech Circle View and the ecobee SmartCamera are pretty similar on the spec table. Both cameras feature high-definition video recording and streaming, support two-way audio with onboard speakers and microphones, and provide a black and white view in the dark with infrared night vision.

The Logitech Circle View and the ecobee SmartCamera also connect to your home network via Wi-Fi without needing an additional hub. Once connected, both cameras track motion events, and intelligent features like face recognition and motion zones can help keep you aware of all of the happenings without flooding you with alerts. That's about it for similarities, though, so let's go over the key differences — starting with the design.

Logitech Circle View vs. ecobee SmartCamera: Design

While both feature slick, modern designs and premium materials, the Logitech Circle View and the ecobee SmartCamera are worlds apart when it comes to appearance. As the name suggests, the Logitech Circle View sports a circular frame that is surprisingly compact for a smart camera. Logitech's camera features a dark palette with a black front and a gunmetal-like finish for the stand — which is non-removable.

Like the stand, the cord is also non-removable, which gives the Circle View one significant advantage: IP64 weather resistance. The Circle View supports an operating temperature of -4 to 120-degrees Fahrenheit, which should be adequate for year-round coverage in most locations. However, you will need to note that the included power adapter is unsuitable for the outdoors, so you will need to factor that in for placement.

Unlike the Circle View, the ecobee SmartCamera is rated for indoor use only, with no weather resistance. The lack of weather resistance does offer a few benefits for the SmartCamera as the stand and power cord are removable. Having a modular design helps with longevity as you can swap out the cord instead of the whole camera if it breaks, and the camera can also feature on-device controls and onboard Alexa.

The removable stand also makes it much easier to mount the ecobee SmartCamera on a wall. The stand portion houses the slot for the included hardware and attaches to the camera magnetically with a satisfying snap. Of course, the ecobee SmartCamera is much taller with its rounded-rectangle-ish design, making it stand out more than the Circle View, but it certainly isn't ugly or bulky by any means.

Logitech Circle View vs. ecobee SmartCamera: Video and recording

As previously noted, the Logitech Circle View and the ecobee SmartCamera capture and stream video in high definition. Both cameras top out at 1080p resolution, shoot at 30fps, and have an ultra-wide-angle 180-degree field of view that produces a 16x9 aspect ratio. Disappointingly, neither camera supports HDR or starlight night vision technology, so you get a basic black and white night vision view.

As you might expect, the resulting views from the cameras are pretty similar. Based on my experiences, I find that the Circle View produces a sharper image with muted colors which I prefer over the SmartCamera's softer, more saturated view in the daytime. On the other hand, though, I find that the ecobee SmartCamera offers up a cleaner, more detailed view when the infrared night vision is on, as the Circle View does tend to get a little grainy.

When it comes to video recordings, both cameras support Apple's HomeKit Secure Video service, which puts everything up in iCloud — if you have a subscription. HomeKit Secure Video provides a rolling 10-days worth of recordings for as little as $0.99 a month for a single camera and up to $9.99 a month for an unlimited amount of cameras and doorbells. Using your existing iCloud subscription instead of handing over your payment information to another company is always nice, and recordings do not count towards your monthly storage allotment.

If you don't mind signing up for another subscription, ecobee's SmartCamera offers some exciting bonuses over HomeKit Secure Video. For $5 a month for a single camera, ecobee's Haven Home Monitoring service provides 30-days of cloud recording, face recognition that automatically arms and disarms alerts for family members, and sound monitoring, which notifies you when the camera picks up the sound of a smoke alarm.

Logitech Circle View vs. ecobee SmartCamera: Smart home integration

The most significant difference between the Logitech Circle View and the ecobee SmartCamera is how they integrate with the devices within your home. First and foremost, the Logitech Circle View works exclusively with iOS and Mac devices. The Circle View relies solely on HomeKit Secure Video and the Home app for management — there is no Logitech app available to download.

For households that are all-in with HomeKit, the Circle View takes just a few seconds to set up as there is no account registration involved, and everyone who shares your home will instantly gain access to the camera. Through HomeKit, the Circle View also gets access to the latest and greatest HomeKit Secure Videos like custom Activity Zones, Face Recognition, and Package Detection as soon as Apple adds them — no long waits for third-party firmware updates required.

Of course, being iOS/HomeKit-only does have some significant downsides. If you go with the Circle View, you cannot share your camera with Android devices, and you are also limited to just Siri for voice controls. Since there isn't a Siri equivalent to an Amazon Echo Show or Nest Home, you will miss out on slick features like summoning a live feed on an always-on ambient display or having a two-way conversation without having to track down your iPhone.

The ecobee SmartCamera takes a more open approach with the ability to support HomeKit Secure Video and other platforms and voice assistants. ecobee's camera works with iOS and Android devices and includes Amazon's Alexa built right in. If you don't already have an Amazon Echo device, you essentially get one for free with the ecobee SmartCamera. You can use the SmartCamera to control other smart home accessories, ask for weather updates, play music, and so much more — hands-free.

ecobee's Haven Home Monitoring service also adds additional capabilities to the SmartCamera. With Haven, the camera can also integrate with other ecobee devices, like the ecobee SmartThermostat or SmartSensors, to create a DIY home security system. Haven leverages the motion and occupancy sensors in all of the ecobee devices to determine who is home and automatically "arm" your home so that it is ready to notify you if an intruder is lurking around.

Logitech Circle View vs. ecobee SmartCamera: Which should you buy?

Regardless of which one you choose, the Logitech Circle View and the ecobee SmartCamera offer the best smart home security features and experiences that you can buy today. If you are all about that Apple life and don't mind living in one ecosystem, the Logitech Circle View's simple account-free setup and iCloud+ integration are hard to beat. Or, if you need a camera that works both inside and out, then Logitech's Circle View is the clear winner.

If you like to switch up your phones or tablets now and again, or if you are only looking for an indoor camera, then the ecobee SmartCamera is the obvious choice. ecobee's camera offers all of the benefits of HomeKit and HomeKit Secure Video while still leaving the door open to other platforms so you won't be stuck with a camera that you can't use if you do decide to jump ship. The ecobee SmartCamera will also save you a little dough upfront, and you get a free Amazon Echo-like device as a bonus.

Although we are comparing two of the latest video doorbells in this versus battle, the truth is that both options are some of the best video doorbells on the market. Both the Arlo Essential Wireless Video Doorbell and the Nest Doorbell (Battery) offer dual-power installation options with excellent battery life, and they both provide crisp HDR imagery — so it's tough to go wrong with either one.

That said, the Nest Doorbell's built-in three-hour local storage gives it a slight edge overall when it comes to ensuring that all of your home's activity is covered 24/7. However, if your home includes Alexa devices, or if you want a doorbell with a siren that you can trigger on-demand, Arlo's offering may be the better fit for you.

Arlo Essential Doorbell vs. Nest Doorbell: The breakdown

With front porch security in mind, the Arlo Essential Wireless Doorbell and the Nest Doorbell give you the ability to summon a live view on-demand and capture motion events throughout the day. When someone rings the doorbell or when motion is detected, you will receive an alert across all of the devices, providing a chance to speak to your visitors or to monitor a would-be intruder.

As both doorbells are from different vendors, some features and alerts will come through differently depending on the devices in your home. If you already have a voice assistant and you want to use it as a wireless chime, or if you want to conjure up a live feed while your hands are full in the kitchen, you'll need to pay close attention to smart home compatibility. Let's start with the easy stuff, though, by taking a look at the tech specs.

As you can see, the Nest Doorbell and the Arlo Essential doorbell have a lot in common. Both doorbells support all package protection staples, for starters: two-way audio, notifications, night vision, and smart home integration. Installation is also incredibly as both sport batteries that allows you to place them just about anywhere, and they last up to six months on a charge.

Both video doorbells also feature weather resistance which keeps them safe from nature's elements all year long. In addition, both doorbells offer hub-free Wi-Fi connectivity, which means you can add them to your home network without adding yet another smart hub to manage. Of course, tech specs don't always tell the whole story, so let's dive into what makes each doorbell unique.

Arlo Essential Doorbell vs. Nest Doorbell: Design differences

Make no mistake about it; neither the Nest Doorbell nor the Arlo Essential Wireless Doorbell will fool anyone into thinking there is no camera watching. However, both doorbells offer the latest in design trends that make them stand out a little less than video doorbells of the past with sleek modern frames.

The Nest Doorbell is a little more decor-friendly than the Arlo Essential Doorbell as it is available in a total of four color options. Despite having more than one color to choose from, all four Nest finishes — ivory, linen, ash, and snow, are subtle and not over-the-top flashy. Meanwhile, the Arlo Essential Doorbell is available in just two finishes: black and white. Aside from the finishes, there isn't much in the way of significant visual differences between the two. Inside though, something that you cannot see is the inclusion of a siren in Arlo's doorbell, which you can trigger manually at any time.

As previously mentioned, the Arlo Essentials Doorbell and the Nest Doorbell support wired and wireless options. Going the wire-free route affords you extra mounting flexibility as you can install it anywhere for the optimum view or the most convenience.

Wireless use does introduce some tradeoffs to be aware of: battery management and chime compatibility. For the most part, charging either doorbell isn't a huge ordeal as they both can go for months before needing a top-off. However, the chime part can be an issue, as without being wired, you will have to depend on your phone or a smart speaker to notify you when someone is at the door. The good thing is that you can always wire either up at any time — if your home has the proper wiring, transformer, and compatible chime.

Arlo Essential Doorbell vs Nest Doorbell: Video and recording

The most important aspects to consider when choosing a video doorbell are video quality and recording capabilities. The Nest Doorbell and the Arlo Essential Doorbell are no slouches in this department. They both support HD quality video with support for HDR — albeit at different resolution and aspect ratios.

Technically, Arlo's doorbell should produce a better overall image with a resolution of 1536x1536 versus the Nest Doorbell's resolution of 960 x 1280. Still, you will be hardpressed to tell the difference — especially when viewing on the phone. The field of view is where you will see the difference, with the Arlo Essential doorbell having a wider 180-degree FOV and a square 1:1 aspect ratio that lets you see more area than the Nest Doorbell's 3:4 view and 145-degree FOV.

When it comes to storing recordings, both doorbells rely on cloud services. Neither doorbell works with services like Dropbox or local NVRs or FTP servers, so to get the whole security experience, you will need to pay a small monthly fee. The Nest Aware service — starting at $6 for 30-days of events on unlimited cameras and doorbells-goes up to $12 for 60-days.

Service plans for the Arlo Essential doorbell are a little more convoluted, with multiple tiers and varying prices depending on the number of cameras. The base Arlo Secure plan starts at $2.99 a month for a single camera which nets you 30-days of rolling history and $9.99 for the same with unlimited cameras. The Arlo Secure Plus plan, priced at $14.99 a month, adds in Emergency Response, which allows you to use your doorbell's location to notify authorities of any potential trouble and unlimited cameras.

Arlo Essential Doorbell vs. Nest Doorbell: Smart features and smart home integration

Along with cloud storage, both doorbell subscription plans include intelligent alerts and additional security options. By leveraging the power of the cloud, both doorbells use image analysis to determine who — or what is within their view, allowing you to set notification preferences that filter out vehicles or pets. Image analysis also can determine when a package arrives and send a custom notification accordingly.

Arlo's Secure service plans also include a few additional security features that you don't get with the Nest Doorbell. One of which is the Emergency Response feature that provides one-tap access to the police, fire department, or paramedics. Another is smoke and CO alarm detection, although this is more tailored for indoor cameras unless your home's alarms are loud enough to reach the doorbell outside.

Another thing to consider is the app experience and smart home integration with the two video doorbells. The Nest Doorbell plays nicely with Android phones, Chromecasts, and voice assistant devices from Google. With direct integration, you can use your TV as a large screen monitor for your doorbell, or you can get alerts sent directly to your Nest Hub's display, making responding or viewing events quick.

The Arlo Essential Wireless Video Doorbell, on the other hand, takes a more agnostic approach by working with Google Assistant and Amazon's Alexa. Working with multiple platforms means viewing your Arlo doorbell feed on a greater variety of devices like an Echo Show or Nest Hub, but it does require extra setup. One last thing to note is that neither works with Apple's HomeKit. If you want an option that you can manage in the iOS Home app, you will need a solution like the original wired Arlo Video Doorbell.

Arlo Essential Doorbell vs. Nest Doorbell: Which should you buy?

With monitoring deliveries being one of the biggest reasons for purchasing a video doorbell, the Nest Doorbell gets our pick in this battle of the porch protectors. The Nest Doorbell's ability to record video for up to three hours even when the Wi-Fi is down ensures that you will always have footage of a potential theft available. Plus, the fact that it is accessible for free without a subscription is icing on the cake.

If you value flexibility in your choice of phone or devices in your home, we recommend going with the Arlo Essential Wireless Video Doorbell. Arlo's doorbell provides almost the same level of integration with voice assistants and smart home platforms, so you can view and respond to visitors from all of your existing devices. Plus, if you ever decide to switch things up, you can rest assured knowing that you will still be able to receive alerts and monitor your front door.

The Logitech Circle View Doorbell and the Nest Doorbell are some of the best video doorbells that you can buy today. The Nest Doorbell's built-in battery, free three-hour local storage, and support for a broader range of mobile devices make it our pick for most homes. The Nest Doorbell works with or without existing wiring, and since it supports iOS and Android, everyone in your home can access it regardless of phone.

On the other hand, Logitech's doorbell delivers all of the latest HomeKit features, including package detection, activity zones, face recognition, and cloud storage, making it the goto for all-Apple homes. Other highlights include the ability to use your HomePod as a chime and being able to view a live feed on the big screen through an Apple TV — all enabled by the Circle View's deep integration with iOS.

Logitech Circle View Doorbell vs. Nest Doorbell: The breakdown

Being video doorbells, both the Logitech Circle View Doorbell and the Nest Doorbell each keep an eye on your home's front door by providing live views on-demand and by storing recordings of all the happenings within their view. Both doorbells also deliver timely notifications whenever a visitor rings-in, or when someone is lurking around your property.

Despite having similar core functionality, how you interact with the Nest Doorbell and the Logitech Circle View depends heavily on the devices in your home. To get the most out of your doorbell, you need to consider your family's phones, TVs, smart assistants, and computers. If you don't keep these in mind, you may miss out on some showcase features like summoning your doorbell's live feed with a voice command. Before we get too deep into that, though, let's start with the tech specs.

As you can see, there are quite a bit of tech specs to digest, so let's start first with the similarities between the two doorbells. Both the Logitech Circle View and the Nest Doorbell sport all of the video doorbell essentials such as onboard microphones and speakers, infrared night vision, and, of course, weather resistance.

Another similarity is that both doorbells utilize a taller 3:4 aspect ratio. The taller view allows you to see more of the ground area directly in front of your door, perfect for keeping an eye on your deliveries. With smart app integration, both doorbells also notify you of any events within their view, thanks to Wi-Fi networking that doesn't require a smart hub. With the similarities out of the way, let's move over to the key differences.

Logitech Circle View Doorbell vs. Nest Doorbell: Design

Video doorbell design has come a long way over the years, and you can see this in the Logitech Circle View and the Nest Doorbell. Both doorbells feature clean, premium designs that, while a bit bulkier than the traditional doorbell button, still manage to look great on all types of outdoor surfaces. When it comes to finishes, Logitech keeps it simple with a one-size-fits-all approach. At the same time, the Nest Doorbell is available in four different colors: snow, linen, ivory, ash — each sporting neutral hues of their respective colors.

The Nest Doorbell also offers more installation and mounting options over the Circle View. Google's doorbell houses an internal rechargeable battery that allows for wire-free installation pretty much anywhere outside of your door. Without wires, you can slap the Nest Doorbell right on your door's trim to make it easier for your guests to find or off to the side of your porch to give you the perfect angle.

The biggest downside with going with a completely wireless solution like the Nest Doorbell is that you will need to top it off every once in a while. However, the Nest Doorbell's generous six-month battery life makes it somewhat easier to manage. If you do get sick of charging, you always have the option to wire it up. Another thing to consider when going wireless is that you will have to rely on your phone or devices like Google Home or Nest Hub for a chime.

By contrast, the Logitech Circle View Doorbell requires existing doorbell wiring, a transformer, and an indoor chime for installation. While this shouldn't be an issue for most homes, it does introduce some potential compatibility issues, and you should definitely check before purchasing.

Logitech Circle View Doorbell vs. Nest Doorbell: Video and recording

Moving on to video, both the Logitech Circle View and the Nest Doorbell capture and stream HD quality video and support HDR. The Logitech Circle View's 1200x1600 video resolution should provide a slightly better picture than the Nest Doorbell's 960x1280 resolution, but you likely won't see too big of a difference as both are plenty capable.

The Logitech Circle View also offers a wider 160-degree field of view versus 145-degrees on the Nest Doorbell. While it doesn't sound like a huge difference — unlike resolution, every little bit counts when it comes to ensuring that your entire porch is covered, especially with the taller aspect ratio.

Since both doorbells store video up in the cloud, a subscription is required if you want a proper security solution. For anything over the included three hours of local storage, the Nest Doorbell requires the Nest Aware service, starting at $6 a month. Nest Aware stores 30-days of rolling events for an unlimited number of cameras and doorbells at the base tier, and the $12 a month Nest Plus plan doubles it to a total of 60-days.

Although Logitech's doorbell doesn't offer any form of local storage, it does have one trick up its sleeve — iCloud. The Circle View relies on Apple's cloud storage service for recorded video, which means no additional subscription if you already pay for a plan. iCloud plans start at $0.99 a month for a single camera, $2.99 for five cameras, and $9.99 for unlimited cameras. Each plan provides ten days' worth of events in a timeline view in the Home app, and despite requiring a storage plan, videos don't count toward your data allotment — a nice little bonus.

Logitech Circle View Doorbell vs. Nest Doorbell: Smart home integration

How each doorbell integrates with your existing smart home and voice assistants is also something to consider. Since Google makes the Nest Doorbell, it comes with support for both iOS and Android right out of the box. Whether you are on an iPhone or the latest Pixel, you essentially get the same experience: an on-demand live view, video history, and smart alerts.

As you may expect, other Google devices — like the Nest Hub and Chromecast get additional controls and features. Through the Nest Hub, you can view your front door with a simple voice command, and with a Chromecast, you can use your TV as an always-on monitor. Combined with a Nest Aware subscription, the Nest Doorbell gains access to image analysis, which can identify who is at the door or if a package is sitting outside. Image analysis can also filter out nuisance notifications from animals or vehicles.

While not built by Apple, the Logitech Circle View Doorbell is built exclusively for iOS and HomeKit. By going HomeKit-only, the Logitech Circle View leverages all HomeKit Secure Video features available today, such as face recognition, activity zones, and smart notifications, as well as new features introduced alongside yearly OS updates.

Another benefit of its deep HomeKit integration is that the Logitech Circle View Doorbell works across all your Apple devices — iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV, and HomePod, all without any additional setup. With an Apple TV, you can pull up your doorbell's feed at any time, either in a fullscreen view or on top of your content as a floating picture-in-picture window. With a HomePod and image analysis through HomeKit Secure Video, Siri can announce the name of who is at the door, and yep, you can even use the HomePod as an additional chime.

Logitech Circle View Doorbell vs. Nest Doorbell: Which should you buy?

Regardless of which doorbell you choose for your home, the Logitech Circle View Doorbell and the Nest Doorbell offer the best smart home security you can buy today. If you or your household are Apple die-hards and want all things HomeKit, then Logitech's doorbell is a natural choice. The Circle View works with the Home app already on all of your devices, and iCloud storage support means you may be able to skip yet another subscription if you have an existing plan.

If your family uses both Android and iOS devices in your home, or if you need a doorbell that works without existing wiring, then you should go with the Nest Doorbell. Google's doorbell plays nicely with a wider variety of phones so you can share your porch's view or recordings with everyone regardless of device, and the built-in rechargeable battery makes it more accessible than the Circle View.

While there are some significant hardware differences, choosing between the Nest Cam (2021) and the Logitech Circle View boils down to your preference of mobile operating system. For those that prefer Android, the Google Assistant, or want to view their cameras on a Nest Hub, the Nest Cam (2021) is the perfect pick. However, if you are on team Apple, the Logitech Circle View's seamless integration with iOS, iCloud, and HomeKit makes it one of the best HomeKit cameras on the market.

Nest Cam vs. Logitech Circle View: The breakdown

At the core, both the Nest Cam and the Logitech Circle View offer up the best in smart home security by providing timely notifications, live check-ins, and cloud recording. Both cameras simplify the installation and setup process by leveraging hub-free Wi-Fi connectivity and their respective smart home platforms. Voice controls also make viewing a feed accessible to everyone in the home, either through phones or smart assistant devices.

However, depending on your choice of mobile phone, your experiences will vary dramatically. You must consider your entire household before purchasing. Before we dive too deep into battle, let's take a look at the full spec breakdown.

As you can see, there are a few key differences to keep in mind when choosing between the Nest Cam and the Logitech Circle View, but for now, we will focus on the similarities. Both cameras sport all the smart security essentials: two-way audio with built-in microphones and speakers, high-definition video, and smart alerts.

The Nest Cam and the Logitech Circle View also feature weather resistance, so you can monitor outdoor areas year-round without having to worry about protecting from the elements. Finally, both cameras rely strictly on Wi-Fi for smart home connectivity with no hardwire options available. Now let's move onto the differences, starting with hardware and design.

Nest Cam vs. Logitech Circle View: Design

The Nest Cam and the Logitech Circle View each sport premium designs and are only available in one finish, but that is where the similarities end. For starters, the Nest Cam features a two-piece detachable design that makes it more flexible in mounting options. Google's camera comes with a magnetic mount and a traditional hardware mount in the box, but oddly, it doesn't come with a stand for tabletop placement.

Another significant difference is that the Nest Cam includes an internal rechargeable battery. Coupled with the magnetic mount, you can install the Nest Cam pretty much anywhere in seconds. it makes taking it down for charging a breeze. The internal battery lasts up to seven months before needing a top off, but weather and the amount of activity in front of the camera will affect overall battery life. Finally, if you are worried about someone walking off with your camera, Google provides free theft protection with purchase too.

Moving over to the Circle View, Logitech's camera features a sleek all-black design that makes it a little more discreet outdoors. The Circle View is a single-piece camera, with the lens pivoting above a metallic base that serves as a stand and a wall mount. The camera comes with the necessary wall-mount hardware, but there is no magnetic mount option available.

Also, unlike the Nest Cam, the Circle View lacks an internal battery. The lack of battery means that although it is "wireless," you will still need to plug it in for power — potentially limiting placement possibilities. The upside with the Circle View is that you can pretty much set it and forget it, but mounting it outdoors requires some careful planning.

Nest Cam vs. Logitech Circle View: Video and recording

As previously mentioned, both smart cameras record and stream video in high definition — 1080p at 30fps, to be exact. Both cameras utilize the standard widescreen 16x9 format, but they offer a different overall view of the surroundings. The Logitech Circle View uses an ultra-wide 180-degree field of view better suited for the outdoors, while the Nest Cam features a more narrow 130-degree view. The Nest Cam is capable of HDR, though, which should provide a slightly better image.

For recording, both cameras primarily store videos in the cloud — which of course, means yet another subscription. For the Nest Cam, the Nest Aware service is available in two plans which start at $6 a month for unlimited cameras. The base Nest Aware plan provides a rolling 30 days worth of recorded events, while the $12 Plus plan steps it up to 60 days and adds ten days of 24/7 continuous recording. Regardless of the plan, the Nest Cam also stores an hour's worth of events on-device just in case your Wi-Fi goes down while you are out and about.

Cloud storage for the Logitech Circle View works a little differently than you might expect. Instead of purchasing a subscription through Logitech, the camera records video directly to Apple's iCloud service. Through iCloud, this method allows the camera to utilize your existing storage plan, so you don't need to sign up for anything extra. You can also rest easy knowing that your home's events are encrypted and stored safely in Apple's cloud.

If you don't already have an iCloud storage plan, pricing starts at just $0.99 a month for a single camera, $2.99 a month for five cameras, and $9.99 a month for unlimited cameras. Each plan gives you access to a rolling ten days worth of recorded events in Apple's Home app, but 24/7 continuous recording and local storage are unfortunately unavailable with the Circle View. One nice little perk with the iCloud plan is that recorded videos don't count towards your storage allotments, so you won't have to worry about your cameras eating into your photo backups.

Nest Cam vs. Logitech Circle View: Smart home integration

What really sets the two cameras apart is how they integrate with smart home assistants and apps. As you might have guessed, the Nest Cam takes advantage of the power of the Google Assistant and other Nest devices. For example, with a Nest Hub, you can summon a live view of the Nest Cam on-demand with just a shout, and you can even speak to whoever is lurking outside of your home.

With a Nest Aware subscription, the Nest Cam analyzes activity to determine who — or what is within its view. Image analysis enables the ability to filter out potential nuisance notifications like a pet running across your yard or vehicles if your camera is pointing out at a street. Image analysis also adds face detection, so you can set it only to notify you if it picks up an unfamiliar face.

As previously mentioned, Logitech's Circle View camera is built exclusively for Apple's HomeKit smart home platform. While exclusivity means that you can only view and manage the camera on Apple devices, it also means that it incorporates everything that HomeKit has to offer — including HomeKit Secure Video and Siri.

By leveraging HomeKit, the Circle View gains the same image analysis features and smart alerts as the Nest Cam. Still, it does so privately by processing activity locally on devices like the Apple TV and HomePod mini. With Siri, you can summon a live view of your camera on your iOS device using just your voice, and you can always review recordings and more through the Home app that is built-in to your iPhone. Plus, if you have an Apple TV, you can even watch all of the happenings and see activity alerts right on the big screen.

Nest Cam vs. Logitech Circle View: Which should you buy?

Ultimately, choosing between the Nest Cam and Logitech Circle View essentially boils down to your household's mobile device and smart assistant preferences. If your family is all-in with Apple's ecosystem, then the Logitech Circle view offers the best integration possible. Using the Home app already on all of your Apple devices or Siri, managing, and sharing your camera is about as seamless as it can get when combined with iCloud storage.

On the other hand, if your home includes a mixture of Android phones and iPhones — or if you don't want to live within one platform, then the Nest Cam is the way to go. Not only is Google's camera more flexible on the software side of things, but it is also more flexible with its integrated rechargeable battery and magnetic mounting options. Throw in the one-hour local backup recording and theft protection, and you get a camera that checks all of the boxes.

What you need to know

• abode has launched a new smart security camera.
• Latest security camera works indoors and out and features an affordable price.
• The abode Cam 2 is available for pre-order now, with shipping starting in April.

Smart DIY home security experts abode have launched a new versatile smart camera that keeps an eye on the home both indoors and out. The abode Cam 2, which is available for pre-order starting today, provides complete home coverage with color night vision, weather-resistance, and voice assistant integration, all at an affordable price.

abode's latest camera features an incredibly compact design with a flexible stand that allows for placement on surfaces inside or mounted outdoors with IP65 weather-resistance. The camera captures video in 1080p HD resolution and features a unique "Starlight sensor" that abode states enable full-color night vision. Combined with an abode Standard or Pro plan, the camera can notify users of motion events, store footage in the cloud, and provide package and pet detection with an update coming later this year.

Although the latest camera supports integration with the company's DIY security systems like the abode iota security kit, one of our picks for best HomeKit security accessories, it can also be used as a standalone solution over Wi-Fi. If a customer already has an abode security system, the camera can work in CUE automation and scenes with other abode accessories, and it will appear along with other security events in a timeline view.

The abode Cam 2 also works with voice commands via Amazon's Alexa and the Google Assistant. Through smart assistant integration, users can summon a live camera view on-demand with compatible devices like the Echo Show. Unfortunately, unlike other abode smart home accessories, the abode Cam 2 does not support Apple's HomeKit.

The abode Cam 2 is available for pre-order starting today at goabode.com at a special introductory price of just $29.99. Orders are expected to begin shipping in April, and the camera will retail for $34.99 after launch.

What you need to know

• Arlo has made its latest smart security camera available for pre-order.
• New indoor camera features an automated privacy shield, 1080p video, and more.
• Arlo Essential Indoor Camera retails for $99.99 and includes a 3-month Arlo Smart trial.

Arlo has announced that the company's privacy-focused Essential Indoor Camera is now available for pre-order. The newest Arlo camera was recognized as a 2021 CES Innovation Award Honoree back at this year's virtual show for its inclusion of a privacy shield that can obstruct its view on-demand.

The new Essential Indoor Camera includes all of the best security camera features like two-way audio through a built-in microphone and speaker, infrared black and white night vision, integrated siren, motion detection, and cloud recording capabilities. Along with the basics, Arlo's latest camera sports a wide-angle 130-degree field of view that captures and streams video wirelessly via Wi-Fi at 1080p high definition resolution.

Unique to the Arlo Essential Indoor Camera is a new privacy shield that blocks the camera's view when disarmed, preventing it from recording activities in front of it. The privacy shield can be opened at any time by the owner through the Arlo app for live streaming, and it can be set to automatically open whenever the system is armed.

The Essential Indoor Camera includes a free three-month trial to the Arlo Smart subscription cloud service. Arlo Smart provides users with a rolling 30-days worth of recorded events stored securely in the cloud, as well as smart notifications from the Arlo app that can detect humans and animals.

In addition to the Arlo app, the Essential Indoor Camera works with Amazon's Alexa and Google Assistant, but it does not appear to support HomeKit at this time.

The Arlo Essential Indoor Camera is available for pre-order now at Amazon, Best Buy, and directly from Arlo.com. The new Essential Indoor Camera retails for $99.99 each, and pricing for the Arlo Smart service starts at $2.99 a month per camera.

Modern smart cameras are an easy way to add a little extra security to your home thanks to convenient app controls, and just like much of the tech that we use today, they get better — and cheaper every year. The latest and greatest smart cameras can go completely wire-free for months at a time with rechargeable batteries, all while supplying ultra-high-definition 4K imagery, and even have live views summoned on-demand using just our voice.

However, one area that hasn't changed much over the years is how smart cameras perform at night or in the dark. The most popular cameras either rely on the classic black and white infrared view or offer limited color views with bulky integrated floodlight designs. One company that has taken a different approach to night vision is EZVIZ, which aims to provide a color view in the dark through a unique dual-lens camera system found in the C3X Outdoor Camera. I have been testing the C3X for the past few months, and while the color night vision is indeed superb, I am more impressed by just how much EZVIZ packs into a camera that is affordable and doesn't require a subscription.

Shines at night

EZVIZ C3X Outdoor Camera review: What I like

Despite the affordable price tag and classic smart camera appearance, the EZVIZ C3X features a solid white metal chassis and mount that feels surprisingly premium in the hand. Combined with weather-resistant cables, connections and compartments, the C3X really seems like it is capable of living up to the IP67 rating outdoors year-round. The bullet-style frame has a large black front, highlighted by the dual-lens camera system that gives the C3X its headlining color night vision capabilities, 1080p HD image quality, and a 106-degree wide diagonal field of view.

Underneath the body of the C3X is a single compartment — accessible via screwdriver, which houses a microSD card slot, and a tiny reset button. It may irritate those that want to access the memory card often, but I love how EZVIZ put both components in a position that requires more than just reaching around the back to get to as I have seen with other cameras.

I also like how the camera's mount and a power/data lead comes attached right out of the box, simplifying installation, and again, keeping the whole package weather-resistant. The attached lead consists of a 12V barrel connector for power, and an ethernet port if Wi-Fi isn't your thing, which was a pleasant surprise. While the lead is rather short, EZVIZ includes a longer power extension cable in the box along with weather-proof covers for both, again showing just how thoughtful the whole package is.

Once installed, setting up the C3X was quick and easy with a simple QR code scanning process, with Wi-Fi details and settings all being configured in under five minutes. The EZVIZ app, available on both iOS and Android, features a clean interface, with loads of settings and options available behind a main camera overview screen. Tapping on the camera on the home screen takes you immediately to the live view which is convenient, and the app presents you with handy controls on both portrait and landscape orientation. Advanced features are available outside of the live view, with some highlights like the ability to establish motion detection zones, setting smart notifications, and assigning alarm tones.

With the low price, one would think that advanced features and recording would be locked behind a subscription, but I am happy to report that everything is available without a monthly fee. I love how EZVIZ's C3X lets you record events directly to a microSD card (not included) and compatible EZVIZ NVR's, both of which are becoming increasingly rare with the push towards the cloud. Of course, EZVIZ offers a subscription service called CloudPlay that provides cloud storage starting at $3.99 a month per camera, but again, it is completely optional, and it doesn't come with any extra special features that can only be performed in the cloud.

Continuing the theme of pleasant surprises, the C3X's image quality, in both day and night, is quite good. During the day, or indoors in good lighting, the C3X produces detailed images that allow you to easily make out what is going on within its view with little noise and motion tearing. I did find that colors seemed a little muted through the C3X, but for the most part, the C3X matches most 1080p cameras that I have tested, including those that are available at twice the cost.

Before I dive into night vision, I will be upfront and say that I was quite skeptical of EZVIZ's color night vision claims, especially without an integrated floodlight. I was fully prepared to see the feature as being nothing more than a nicety that wouldn't be useful with grainy image quality — but boy was I wrong. Whether it is black and white infrared night vision, or the dual-lens color night vision, the EZVIZ C3X produces the best night time visuals that I have seen to date in a smart camera.

The dual-lens night vision mode truly brings the area to life in color, a sight that is striking to see after being used to infrared views for years. The color view extends the entire camera view, instead of being limited to a small area like with a floodlight, and it really allows you to see details like variances in shades on a fence or within the grass. Color night vision also does not appear to affect framerate or motion in front of the camera, which again, is really impressive given the low price of the C3X. Even the standard infrared black and white view outperformed one of my go-to outdoor cameras, the Logitech Circle 2 which I have positioned in the same area, with a much sharper, and brighter, image.

Dated design, bulky plug

EZVIZ C3X Outdoor Camera review: What I don't like

While I love the solid construction and extra attention to weather-proofing, the C3X does have some hardware quirks. First, the dual Wi-Fi antennas that surround the C3X give the whole package a dated look when compared to modern smart cameras, and makes it stand out when installed outdoors. Plus, the external antennas do not hold their positions well, as even the smallest of bumps will cause them to fall over, defeating their purpose. Another is that the power brick for the camera is quite large, which may prevent it from being used with smaller outdoor outlet boxes without an extension cord.

Moving away from the hardware, like other apps from smart home accessory vendors, the EZVIZ app isn't the most intuitive. Firing up the camera's live view is quick and easy, but tracking down specific features requires a lot of trial and error as the main navigation buttons are not labeled, and settings are buried in different sections of the app. Just tracking down recordings may be a little confusing for some, as motion events are sent to a "messages" tab within the app, which is odd. This is especially true when compared to most other cameras that I have tested, which put motion events into a dedicated security or timeline area.

My final gripe with the C3X is that it doesn't support Apple's HomeKit. I would love to have the ability to pull up a live stream through my Apple TV or use the camera with other HomeKit accessories through automation, but alas, like tons of other smart devices, it isn't compatible. Now, it does work with Alexa, and Google Home devices which are great, but if you are deep into the Apple ecosystem and prefer everything under one roof as I do, it is a little frustrating.

The competition

There are tons of outdoor security cameras on the market these days with options spanning both wired and wire-free variants each with its unique designs and features. However, when it comes to night vision, many options rely on infrared that only produces a black and white view, most of which pale in comparison to the C3X.

The closest competitors for color night vision that I have tested include Arlo's Pro 3 Floodlight Camera and the eufyCam 2C, both of which sport integrated lights. The Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight Camera features a bulky design that stands out even more than the C3X, but it can be powered entirely through a rechargeable battery, and it can light up large areas with 3,000 lumens of brightness. The light enables color night vision, but image quality isn't as sharp and detailed as the C3X in the dark.

The eufyCam 2C has a smaller, more compact design and it runs on an internal rechargeable battery for up to six months. Obviously, battery life will take a hit with spotlight usage, and the integrated light is not very bright, so the overall reach of the camera is limited. The result is an image that is in color, but is grainer and doesn't cover an entire area like the C3X.

EZVIZ C3X Outdoor Camera review: Should you buy

You want a camera that prioritizes night vision

The C3X produces some of the best nighttime visuals around thanks to the unique dual-lens setup that doesn't rely on a flood or spotlight. Whether it is the incredible color night vision capabilities or the extremely detailed IR black and white view, the C3X is perfect for monitoring dark areas.

You want a smart camera that works with app and voice controls

Setting up and managing the C3X camera takes place entirely through the EZVIZ app, putting the live feed and more just a few taps away. The camera also integrates with Alexa and Google Home devices allowing you to summon its view with voice controls.

You want a smart camera that records locally without a subscription

EZVIZ bucks the smart camera trends by allowing owners to record videos directly to a microSD card or NVR. This means that it can be used without a subscription, and without having to rely on the cloud to access your recordings.

You want a completely wireless experience

Although it is technically a "wireless" camera with Wi-Fi, the C3X still requires a wired power source as it does not include an onboard battery. The lack of a battery can limit placement options outdoors, and the included power supply is bulky and may not fit into enclosed or covered outlets.

You want a smart camera that blends into its surroundings

The C3X sports a white frame with a dual-antenna design that instantly calls attention to it — especially outdoors. This could be seen as a positive for some, but for those that prefer discreet security, it should be taken into consideration.

You want a HomeKit-enabled or Shortcuts compatible camera

The C3X does not support Apple's HomeKit so you will not be able to view the camera through the Home app or use it with other HomeKit accessories. The C3X also does not work with Siri Shortcuts, limiting voice assistant support to just Alexa and the Google Assistant.

If night time security is your highest priority for your home or business, then the EZVIZ C3X should be at the top of your list thanks to the dual-lens camera system. Even if night vision isn't a major factor, the lack of required subscription and local recording option makes the C3X an excellent choice for many. However, if deep iOS integration or completely wire-free operation is important to you, then you will be better off with one of the best HomeKit Cameras, or other smart camera options.

With incredible color night vision capabilities, local recording, smart app controls, and affordable price, the EZVIZ C3X Outdoor Camera has something for just about everyone. The C3X may not look the flashiest, or support iOS exclusive features like HomeKit or Shortcuts, but it makes up for its shortcomings with the best color night vision that I have seen in a camera with, or without, an integrated floodlight. Plus, the ability to use the camera without a required subscription while retaining all of its major features is refreshing in an age where the push for services is so strong. If you want the best night vision around or just a solid smart camera, then it's hard to go wrong with the C3X.

What you need to know

• Savant's C by GE smart home brand is now Cync.
• Name change comes with a new app experience, and three new smart home accessories.
• First Cync smart accessory will be available in March.

Even though CES 2021 doesn't officially kick off until next week, Savant Systems is getting the party started early by announcing several major changes to the C by GE smart home line. Significant changes include a rebrand to Cync, a new mobile app that is coming later this year, and several new smart home accessories.

Following the acquisition of GE Lighting — which includes the C by GE line last year, the rebrand to Cync streamlines and simplifies things for consumers, and opens the doors for additional accessory categories for Savant. Savant plans to expand the existing product line with several new smart home accessories outside of the world of lighting controls, including an indoor camera, outdoor smart plug, and a fan switch.

While neither of the new Cync products are revolutionary for their respective category, Savant's offerings feature some key differences that sets them apart from the competition. For instance, the Cync Indoor Smart Camera includes a unique privacy shutter that physically blocks the lens on-demand, as well as shutting off audio for complete privacy. The camera can also operate independent from the cloud, with an on-board microSD cart slot that keeps everything local, and of course, for those that just want to set it and forget it, a subscription service is also available.

The Cync Outdoor Smart Plug sports two connected outlets in a weather-resistant design that can power outdoor decor and more all year long. The outdoor plug provides two hub-free connectivity options — Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, so users can get it up and running on their home networks or directly on their mobile devices in minutes. Once connected, the two outlets can be controlled independently through app and voice controls through integration with Alexa and the Google Assistant.

Finally, the Cync Fan Speed Smart Switch is an in-wall solution for ceiling fans that allows owners to choose from four different speeds without having to leave the comforts of the couch. In additional to on-demand controls, schedules can be created for customized comfort throughout the day, and the switch also can be grouped with other Cync accessories for potential automation.

Alongside the new name and accessories, Savant is also introducing a revamped mobile app that promises a user-friendly design, more personalized lighting controls, and some slick new features. Through the new app users will be able to experience a new TrueImage feature that enables a preview of lighting conditions and colors in the home using photos captured by mobile devices and the updated app will also serve as a way to control existing C by GE accessories, so that nobody is left behind with the changes.

Savant's Cync rollout will begin in March with the aforementioned mobile app, and with the launch of the Outdoor Smart Plug. The Cync Indoor Smart Camera will follow in May, with the Fan Speed Smart Switch slated for a June release, although exact dates and pricing have not yet been revealed. Additional details surrounding all of the latest products can be found at gelighting.com.

When it comes to protecting your home or your small business, finding the right security camera can be a real challenge. You want cameras that are easy to set up and use, all for a great price. SpotCam has the solution with its latest line of security cameras.

Trust SpotCam with your security camera needs

Founded by experts with years of experience in CCTV industry, SpotCam's team saw something sorely lacking in the industry's current offerings. To truly meet the needs of consumers, this team brings together experts in video streaming, cloud server storage, and web apps with the goal of shattering traditional ideas of CCTV products.

Whether using your iPhone, your iPad, or your Macbook, you always view your current feed, stored footage, and saved videos. SpotCam makes creating, sharing, and even streaming videos from your footage incredibly easy, while also utilizing bank-level encryption technology and SSL security to assure that no one else can see your footage.

What SpotCam is doing different

To truly revolutionize the security camera industry, SpotCam is the only cloud camera brand that provides free 24-hour continuous full time cloud recording forever - no more bulky DVRs! If you need more than 24 hours of video, SpotCam offers competitively priced packages with three days, seven days, or even 30 days of continuous video cloud storage, giving you flexible options to fit your needs and your budget.

SpotCam also features AI video analysis and is a leader in bringing AI service into home security cameras. With a variety of options for AI services, you can pick and choose the individual services you want or sign up for Indoor or Outdoor Service Packages. Some of the AI services offered by SpotCam include:

• Face Recognition: SpotCam cameras can be trained to detect the faces of strangers, letting you know immediately, when a stranger comes onto your property.
• Human Detection: Unlike normal motion detectors, SpotCam cameras use AI to differentiate people coming onto your property from animals or other objects.
• Baby Crying Detection: Great for the nursery, your SpotCam cameras can use AI to detect a crying baby.
• Missing Object: You can use the AI of your SpotCam cameras to keep watch for particularly valuable objects, alerting you immediately should someone move that object.
• Pet Detection: Want to keep an eye on your furry friend from afar? SpotCam's AI can differentiate your pet's movements, sending you an alert when your pet is moving about.
• Virtual Fence: Using SpotCam's AI, you can draw the boundaries of your property and SpotCam will alert you whenever anything crosses that line.
• Vehicle Detection: SpotCam's AI doesn't just detect people and animals; it can also alert you to vehicles that park in your driveway or parking lot.
• Fall Detection: Especially useful for keeping your aging parents safe in their homes, SpotCam's AI can detect when someone has fallen and isn't getting back up, alerting you immediately.

Most important, however, is SpotCam's app for iOS and Android. This app allows you to set up your SpotCam security cameras easily, see the live feed of your SpotCam cameras from your phone or tablet, as well as receive event alerts, all from your iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch. Whether in another part of your building or in another country, you can always access your footage from the palm of your hand.

SpotCam Eva 2

The latest in indoor cloud cameras from SpotCam, the Eva 2 supports 360-degree horizontal pan and 90-degree tilt. This little camera can produce HD 1080P videos at 30 frames per second. With SpotCam's human tracking function, the Eva 2 will make sure to follow the action for a perfect video every time. Each Eva 2 has a built-in microphone and speaker to support two-way audio, making it a great option for your nursery or to keep watch over your pet when you're away from home. With 8 High power IR LEDs, you'll get crisp, clean details, even at night.

SpotCam FHD 2

The latest in outdoor cloud cameras from SpotCam, the FHD 2 supports all the features of the Eva 2 except for human tracking, all in a waterproof and dustproof package. With 12 High-power IR LEDs, you can trust the FHD 2 to catch every detail, even in the dark of night. The FHD 2 isn't just waterproof and dustproof either; it will operate at temperatures as low as -30°C (-22°F) and as high as 50°C (122°F). With a quick and easy setup right from your iPhone, you'll spend more time deciding where you want to put your SpotCam FHD 2 security cameras than you will actually setting them up.

SpotCam is the right choice for your security camera needs

Whether employing the indoor Eva 2 security cameras, the outdoor FHD 2 security cameras, or a combination of both, SpotCam has the products and services you need for your home or small business. As the only security camera on the market to come with 24-hour continuous cloud storage for a lifetime, you simply cannot find a better deal. With a competitively priced cloud NVR plan, you can store up to a month of continuous security footage to go back and review at your leisure. The SpotCam smart cloud cameras couldn't be easier to set up and use, all through the iOS app or your computer. It's easy to see why SpotCam's AI and security encryption are leading the industry and why you should trust them with your business or personal property.

Smart security cameras are an excellent way to keep an eye on the happenings in and around the home with live streaming, recording, and two-way audio capabilities right at your fingertips. Wyze's line of smart cameras are some of the most affordable options around, and now, thanks to an epic early Black Friday from Amazon, you can get started with smart home security for even less.

The standard Wyze Cam, already a bargain at its retail price of $25, packs in tons of smart home goodness into a cute little cube frame. Wyze's smart camera sports 1080p high definition video with a 110-degree wide-angle lens that captures everything with crisp details during the day. At night, the Wyze Cam switches over to infrared night vision, enabling you to see distances up to 30 feet away. A built-in microphone and speaker give you the ability to communicate with family and even your pets from anywhere in the world.

For just a few more dollars, the Wyze Cam Pan adds in slick motorized controls into the mix. The Wyze Cam Pan can rotate a full 360-degrees and tilt 93-degrees so you can check in on the entire home without having to install cameras everywhere. An incredibly cool Pan and Scan mode automatically allows the camera to "patrol" your home with four preset positions, and of course, you can control it manually directly from your phone.

Both of Wyze's cameras come with 14-days of free cloud storage, so you don't have to worry about extra fees or another subscription to manage. Recordings are available to review through the free Wyze app on iOS and Android, and the cameras also can link up with Amazon's Alexa and the Google Assistant for hands-free on-demand viewing through a compatible smart device. Unfortunately, Wyze cameras do not work with HomeKit, so if you are deep into the world of Apple, you may want to check out our guide to the best Apple Black Friday deals.

What you need to know

• Abode has opened up pre-orders for an outdoor smart camera that first debuted at CES 2020.
• Camera launch comes alongside significant performance upgrades for existing Abode cameras.
• The Outdoor Smart Camera is available at a discount for pre-orders, and will begin shipping in early November.

Abode has announced on Wednesday that the company's Outdoor Smart Camera is now available for pre-orders. First introduced earlier this year at CES 2020, the Outdoor Smart Camera is a versatile security solution that can also function as a video doorbell.

Abode's Outdoor Smart Camera features 1080p high definition video, PIR motion sensing, and a 152-degree wide field of view. The camera works indoors and out, with an IP65 weather-resistance rating and a set of included mounts allow placement on a wall, table, or even as a button-less doorbell. The camera runs on a 5V USB adapter, and when installed as a doorbell, it can utilize existing 8-24V wiring.

The Outdoor Smart Camera also offers flexible connectivity options as it works with Abode's security systems or standalone via Wi-Fi. Smart features include CUE automation with other Abode accessories, facial recognition, and support for Amazon's Alexa, and the Google Assistant. Support for Apple's HomeKit is also in the works, with Abode stating that the Outdoor Smart Camera is awaiting certification.

Alongside the launch, Abode has also announced a series of upgrades that will bring performance improvements for its existing cameras. Available as a firmware update through the Abode app and shipping with the latest Outdoor Smart Camera, users will see reduced latency, faster launch times, and improved video quality.

The Abode Smart Outdoor Camera is available for pre-orders now at a special introductory price of $159. The camera will begin shipping in early November, and after its release, the camera will retail for $199.

What you need to know

• eufy has released another video doorbell, the eufy Security Video Doorbell 2K Pro.
• Latest doorbell offers 2K resolution and continuously records five days worth of footage.
• New doorbell is available exclusively at Best Buy for $169.99.

eufy has announced the release of another smart video doorbell solution today, the eufy Security Video Doorbell 2K Pro. The latest video doorbell includes 2K high definition video with continuous recording, and is available now exclusively at Best Buy retail stores and online.

• The sharp 2K image, combined with our advanced HDR and Distortion Correction, ensures every video is recorded in 2x the quality.
• Records and stores every second of the last 5 days onboard the device, allowing you to check any and all events, no matter how big or small.
• 32GB of built-in storage allows each recording to be saved directly to the device meaning there is no need to use or purchase an external SD card.

eufy's newest doorbell records and streams in 2K (2560x1920) resolution with HDR and in a taller, more natural, 4:3 aspect ratio. The doorbell includes smart staples such as weather resistance, two-way audio, notifications, and voice assistant integration with Alexa and the Google Assistant. The eufy Security Video Doorbell 2K Pro also features local A.I. image processing, enabling face recognition and filtering that can exclude pets and vehicles from alerts.

The most significant upgrade over the previous 2K video doorbell is the inclusion of 32Gb of onboard storage, which enables the camera to record for up to five-days continuously. Continuous recording ensures that it captures every moment, putting an end to shorter clips that may miss some key details. Recorded video is stored locally on-device with "military-grade" encryption, accessible through the eufy Security app without a cloud subscription.

The latest continuous recording feature is demanding, so the new doorbell is only available in a hard-wired option, with the doorbell supporting transformers between 16-24VAC. The new doorbell also includes an upgraded chime that now features a cloth cover on the front. The new chime provides eight different ringtones, along with adjustable volume levels.

The eufy Security Video Doorbell 2K Pro is available now, exclusively through Best Buy retail stores and online. The eufy Security Video Doorbell 2K Pro retails for $199.99, however, Best Buy is currently offering the new release at a discounted price of $169.99.

What you need to know

• Arlo has unveiled its latest wire-free Pro and Ultra cameras.
• The Arlo Pro 4 camera supports 2K HDR video and works without a dedicated hub.
• Arlo Ultra 2 Camera System gains improved range to go along with 4K HDR video.

Arlo has introduced a pair of upgraded cameras from its completely wireless camera line today, the Arlo Pro 4 and Arlo Ultra 2. The latest cameras, which are available for pre-orders now, offer expanded range and wireless connectivity options, along with high definition video capabilities and integrated spotlights.

Arlo's new Pro 4 Camera sports specs similar to the previous Pro 3 with weather resistance, wide 160-degree field of view, 2K video resolution with HDR, and six month battery life. Unlike the Pro 3 though, the updated Pro cameras now have the ability to connect directly to home Wi-Fi networks without the need for a dedicated SmartHub or Base Station. This allows the Pro 4 cameras to work as a standalone system for easier installation and setup, and for those already with a Arlo hub, the cameras can be integrated along with others just the same as before.

Other highlights for the Pro 4 include two-way audio, built-in siren, and integrated spotlight. The spotlight enables the camera to record and stream video at night in color, and it can be set to automatically turn on when motion is detected. The Pro 4 also works with Amazon's Alexa, and the Google Assistant for convenient voice controls. Support for Apple's HomeKit doesn't appear to be available at launch, but we suspect that it will come at a later date through an update like previous Arlo cameras.

The latest Arlo Ultra 2 Camera System offers improved visuals over the Pro 4, with support for 4K resolution and HDR, with an ultra-wide 180-degree field of view. The Ultra 2 includes the same six-month battery life as the Pro 4, weather resistance, integrated siren, spotlight, and color night vision. However, the Ultra 2 does not gain Wi-Fi capabilities, as it still requires an Arlo SmartHub for operation, but it does allow it to work with Apple's HomeKit in addition to Alexa, and the Google Assistant.

Both the Arlo Pro 4 and Ultra 2 cameras are available for pre-orders today at Arlo.com, and at retailers like Best Buy, Amazon, and Costco. Arlo's Pro 4 starts at $199.99 for a single camera system, and the Ultra 2 is available in one and two camera kits starting at $299.99.

What you need to know

• Arlo has announced two new additions to its Essential camera lineup.
• The Arlo Essential XL Spotlight Camera includes color night vision capabilities and 1-year battery life.
• The Arlo Essential Camera covers all of the smart security basics for $99.

Arlo has introduced a pair of new wireless security cameras that bring greater battery life and new capabilities to its affordable Essential line. The Arlo Essential XL Spotlight Camera is available for pre-order starting today, and the Arlo Essential Camera, will hit Walmart stores this holiday season.

As its name suggests, the Arlo Essential XL Spotlight includes a powerful spotlight that can be set to turn on with motion detection, or manually through the Arlo app. The spotlight also allows the Essential XL camera to feature color night vision in addition to the traditional infrared black and white view.

The Essential XL sports a 130-degree field of view and captures video in 1080p high definition resolution. The wire-free Essential XL camera is weather resistant, and designed to be used year-round outdoors with an integrated rechargeable battery, that can last up to an entire year on a single charge. The camera also includes home security basics like two-way audio, remote streaming, cloud recording, and support for Amazon's Alexa, IFTTT and the Google Assistant.

Arlo's other new camera, the base Arlo Essential Camera, drops the smaller integrated light as seen in the Essential Spotlight Camera which was released earlier this year. The removal of the light brings the price of the camera down to an even more affordable price, just $99.99.

Just like with the Essential XL, the cheaper Essential Camera supports 1080p video, two-way audio, siren capabilities, 130-degree viewing angle, and weather resistance. The smaller camera lasts up to six-months on a charge, and both cameras do not require a separate Arlo hub as they connect directly to home networks over Wi-Fi.

The Arlo Essential XL Spotlight Camera is available for pre-orders today from Arlo.com and Bestbuy.com, for $149.99. The Arlo Essential Camera will be available at Walmart stores this holiday season with a retail price of $99.99.

What you need to know

• Arlo has unveiled a smart new video doorbell.
• The Arlo Essential Wire-Free Video Doorbell offers both wired and wireless installation options.
• Latest doorbell is available for pre-orders today with an MSRP of $199.99.

Arlo has taken the wraps off its newest smart video doorbell today, the Arlo Essential Wire-Free Video Doorbell. Just like its name suggests, the latest doorbell includes an integrated rechargeable battery that enables both wired and wire-free installation options.

The Essential Wire-Free Video Doorbell sports smart doorbell staples like high definition video with HDR, wide-angle lens, smart notifications, cloud recording, night vision, and two-way audio. However, unlike other doorbells on the market, Arlo's newest doorbell comes with the company's unique 1:1 aspect ratio which we found to deliver a more natural point of view on the previous iteration.

The addition of an integrated rechargeable battery adds flexibility when it comes to installation, as it doesn't require existing wiring. Arlo states that the battery should last between three to six months, and for those that have wiring available, it can be hardwired for a continuous charge.

Other highlights include a built-in siren that can be manually activated via the Arlo app, available on iOS and Android, as well as a mounting wedge in the box that can help with establishing the optimal view. Smart features are enabled through a direct Wi-Fi connection without the need for an additional hub, and once connected, the doorbell can integrate with Amazon's Alexa and the Google Assistant, but sadly, it does not support HomeKit. Finally, Arlo's doorbell comes with a three month trial to the Arlo Smart subscription service that enables access to a rolling 30 days of recorded video stored in the cloud.

The Arlo Essential Wire-Free Video Doorbell will be available for preorders starting today, with a retail price of $199.99. The doorbell will also be available at select retailers like Best Buy nationwide, and on Arlo.com this holiday season.

What you need to know

• Amazon has unveiled two upgraded wire-free Blink cameras along with a battery expansion pack.
• Latest cameras sport a sleeker design, and retains lengthy two-year battery life.
• Both cameras are available for preorders today, and are slated to ship later this month.

Amazon has announced a pair of updates to its Blink Security camera lineup today, giving the popular wire-free cameras a makeover while still retaining extra long battery life. The Blink Indoor and Blink Outdoor Cameras, which are available for preorders today, offer users an easy way to keep an eye on their homes with a simple wireless connection and easily replaceable batteries.

The refreshed Blink Cameras sport all of the smart security staples, including 1080p high definition video with an 110-degree field of view, two-way audio, motion detection, and infrared night vision. Both of the latest wireless cameras are powered by two AA lithium batteries, which last up to two-years, and can be wall-mounted with the included hardware.

The latest cameras connect to an included Sync Module which bridges their connections to home Wi-Fi networks, and enables both cloud storage and local storage options. Amazon's cloud Blink Subscription Plan starts at $3 per month for each camera and for those with multiple cameras in the home, a $10 tier is also available that offers storage for an unlimited amount of cameras. Amazon includes a free trial to its cloud subscription plan with the purchase of the new cameras which runs until December 31st of this year.

Once connected to the Blink Home Monitor app, camera owners can set up motion alerts, privacy zones, and access a live view on-demand. Both cameras are compatible with Amazon's Alexa, which offers a hands-free way to bring up a live view, recorded clips, and even arming the cameras through devices like the Echo Show.

The Blink Indoor and Outdoor Cameras are available for preorders today, with prices starting at $79.99. The cameras are scheduled for release later this month, with Amazon's listings currently showing September 16th as the targeted date.

Alongside the new cameras, Amazon also announced a new battery expansion pack that promises to double battery life. The expansion pack allows owners to install two additional AA batteries, enabling the wireless cameras to go up to four years between swaps with "normal use".

Unlike the updated cameras, the battery expansion pack did not get a specific timeframe for the release other than "later this year". The battery pack is currently listed on Amazon for $29.99, and those interested can sign up to received an email notification when it is released.

What you need to know

• eufy Security has unveiled its latest smart accessory, the Smart Drop lockbox.
• The Smart Drop combines a camera, lock, and mailbox into a single smart security solution.
• The Smart Drop will be available in Q3 of 2021, with a Kickstarter campaign launching today.

eufy Security has unveiled its latest smart home security accessory designed to combat porch pirates, the Smart Drop lockbox. The Smart Drop, which is launching on Kickstarter later today, combines a smart camera, smart lock, and mailbox, into one wireless solution that secures deliveries inside of a large capacity chamber.

The Smart Drop lockbox features a large 68L capacity, with interior measurements of 23" x 14.4" x 12.6", which eufy states covers 98% of most residential packages. The Smart Drop is made with cold-rolled steel with reinforced bars, and for extra security, it can be mounted directly to walls or the floor at the point of installation if desired.

Back the Eufy Smart Drop lockbox today

Since it is designed for the outdoors, eufy's lockbox sports an IP65 weather resistance rating for the camera, along with an internal drainage system. The camera offers 1080p HD resolution with an 160-degree wide field of view, and includes security staples such as night vision, two-way audio, PIR motion detection and A.I. face detection.

The lockbox is completely wireless, as it is powered by a removable, rechargeable battery which can last up to three months on a single charge. Smart features are enabled through a built-in Wi-Fi radio, allowing it to connect to the eufy Security app on iOS and Android as well as with Alexa, and the Google Assistant for convenient voice controls, but unfortunately, it does not support Apple's HomeKit.

To help with ensuring deliveries are indeed placed inside, the Smart Drop includes voice guidance with lights and an instructional sticker. Once packages are inserted, the Smart Drop secures them by requiring a pin code, or app controls to open again. During the delivery, the on-board camera and motion sensors will provide a notification and will record the event either locally when paired to the company's HomeBase hub, or to the cloud.

For those interested, eufy Security is launching a crowdfunding campaign through Kickstarter later today with pledges starting at $199. eufy Security is estimating that the product will be delivered to backers in Q3 2021, however as with all crowdfunding campaigns, pledging support does not guarantee that the product will actually come to market, and unforeseen challenges may cause delays in production timelines. While eufy Security is an established brand which is associated with popular accessory manufacturer Anker, these risks still apply.

Floodlights and smart cameras, two of the most common forms of home security today are often positioned close to one another, protecting our homes with motion-activated light, or by notifying us of activity. So it was only inevitable that the two would eventually become one, first with cameras that pack-in a small integrated LED light, and then followed by traditional looking floodlights with cameras attached. Most of these options are full of compromises, though, with cameras with lights only illuminating small areas, and the floodlight cameras requiring existing wiring outside.

Enter the Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight Camera, which recently hit the scene with its sight set on providing an experience that is worthy of standing out in either category. This clever combination takes the best of smart security with its wire-free design and mashes it with a floodlight that truly lives up to the "Flood" portion of its name. I have spent the last month putting the Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight through its paces, and have come away impressed with just how incredibly bright this beast of a device can get, and how good its image quality really is. However, the Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight is certainly not perfect, and it is a device that comes with its own set of compromises.

Big and bright

Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight Camera: The features

The Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight's design looks just like it sounds, with Arlo's existing wireless Pro 3 Camera sitting in the center of a floodlight. Unlike its competitors, though, Arlo's camera ditches the traditional floodlight stylings in favor of a more integrated look, with the light portion surrounding the camera itself, creating a one-piece ensemble. Aside from the front of the Pro 3 camera section, which is black, the entire floodlight consists of the familiar Arlo glossy white plastic frame, with a frosted matte diffuser covering the LED panel on the front.

The Floodlight Camera is large, measuring 8.6-inches x 7.5-inches, and weighs around 1.4 pounds. The camera is powered by an included rechargeable battery, which is easy to access as it does not require using a tool. The battery is charged via an included micro-USB cable, and since it is removable, additional batteries can be purchased and used with an optional dock to make swaps quick. The camera also works with Arlo's Outdoor Magnetic Charging Cable, which snaps onto the bottom for even more convenience, and it can be used to continuously power the floodlight. Battery life varies according to usage, but most users should expect to see around three to six months in-between charges, similiar to the Pro 3 Camera.

The light panel and its large surface area is incredibly powerful, with it capable of reaching up to 3,000 lumens of bright white light with a color temperature of 4,000K. The floodlight supports dimming, and it can be set to either show a solid light, or a pulsating light. The floodlight can be activated manually or set to turn on automatically when motion is detected within 25 feet or by other Arlo cameras or connected accessories. The entire assembly is weather and UV resistant, allowing it to work outdoors year-round in temperatures ranging from -4 degrees to 113 degrees Fahrenheit, and it comes with the appropriate hardware for mounting inside of the box.

Arlo's Floodlight Camera sports 2K resolution with HDR, coming in at 2560 x 1440, with a 160-degree wide Field of View. The 4 megapixel camera supports 12x digital zoom, as well as infrared night vision using two LEDs, capable of seeing up to 25 feet away. When the integrated floodlight is on, the camera is capable of capturing color footage or showing a live feed in color in the dark. Other hardware highlights include two-way audio, and a built-in siren, which, like the floodlight, can be activated via motion or manually.

Smart features are enabled via 2.4ghz Wi-Fi, which allows the camera to work without a separate Arlo SmartHub, although it can be integrated with one if you already have one in your home. The camera connects to the Arlo app, available on both iOS and Android, and on the desktop, feeds and recorded footage can be viewed via my.arlo.com. The camera does not include on-board storage, relying on the cloud for recording through a subscription to one of Arlo's Smart Plans, or via local storage to a USB drive attached to a SmartHub.

Arlo Smart plans also enable the creation of activity zones, package detection, and smart notifications that can filter out nuisances. A three-month trial to the Arlo Smart service is included with the purchase, and a credit card is not required to get it set up. After that, plans start at $2.99 a month for a single camera, and include 30-days of rolling footage at 2K resolution. Finally, the camera supports Amazon's Alexa, the Google Assistant, and Apple's HomeKit, although the latter requires the aforementioned SmartHub, and it does not work with HomeKit Secure Video features.

Wire and hub-free

Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight Camera: What I like

Despite being battery-powered and completely wireless, Arlo's camera truly lives up to the Floodlight portion of its name. I absolutely love how the camera can light up an entire area on-demand or via a motion event, and it is not limited to a small section in front of its view. Of course, I also really like how the light is powerful enough to enable color night vision, which unlike other cameras with integrated lights, it actually offers better details over its infrared black and white view.

Speaking of image quality, the camera's 2K HDR capabilities produces some of the best daytime visuals that I have seen in a wireless camera to date. The camera's live view and recordings are clean and detailed, with very little pixelation seen, even with large amounts of motion activity. Colors, while muted compared to other cameras, are more lifelike, and the camera was able to maintain high visibility across its view in scenarios with uneven brightness levels.

The pristine views also are seemingly not affected by distance from the SmartHub, which is the method that I chose to use for pairing as I already had a few Arlo Pro 3 Cameras. During my testing, I was able to mount the camera at locations not attached directly to my home, and it was still capable of 2K quality, plus I did not have any issues with it not responding or interrupted streams, which was impressive. Pulling up a live view took around five-seconds in most instances, and motion notifications coming from the camera usually arrived within ten-seconds, which is pretty typical for the category.

Finally, the recent addition of HomeKit support makes the whole package a much better value as it now works with all of the major voice assistants and ecosystems. Since I use the Home app on iOS for just about everything, I appreciate that Arlo didn't just settle for providing a live view for the camera, as it also brought over the actual floodlight controls. This enables the light to work with other HomeKit accessories through automations and scenes, which, in my case, allows the light to turn on even if motion is detected by another camera.

Subscription required

Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight Camera: What I don't like

Let's get this out of the way, the Pro 3 Floodlight Camera is pretty much an expensive doorstop without a subscription to an Arlo Smart plan, or without a SmartHub. Features like activity zones, and cloud storage, are locked behind a subscription, so if you don't pony up the monthly fee, you are simply limited to a live view, which just seems wrong at its premium price point. Sure, you can get around the recording limitation by purchasing a SmartHub and attaching a USB drive, but that only adds more to the overall cost, and it takes away one of the biggest selling points: the lack of a required hub.

HomeKit integration, while great, is not full-blown HomeKit Secure Video support and enabling it requires an Arlo SmartHub. As I mentioned in my review of the non-floodlight Pro 3 camera system, the company seems intent on pushing owners toward its own subscription service over giving owners a choice, which is frustrating, to say the least. Yes, Arlo's Smart service works as advertised, but again, I would prefer everything under one "roof" as I am already paying for iCloud storage, and I prefer Apple's smart home approach, which attempts to keep things local as much as possible.

Moving over to the hardware itself, the powerful floodlight means that the entire mostly white package is quite large, making it stand out when mounted outdoors. Combined with a design that is not the most visually appealing, to begin with, the Floodlight Camera becomes somewhat of an eye-sore. Because of this, I chose not to mount the camera on the front of my home, but it did work great around the back as I did not have a floodlight beforehand.

My last gripe with the Floodlight Camera is that hitting the maximum brightness level requires it to be plugged-in to a power source. Obviously, this is to preserve battery life, but I would have liked to have seen a toggle or something in the Arlo app that enables peak levels anyway. When the camera is marketed as a wire-free solution, it should be able to do everything it is capable of wirelessly.

Clever, but complicated

Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight Camera: The Bottom Line

Arlo's Pro 3 Floodlight has all of the makings of a fantastic security solution, great 2K image quality, built-in siren, wireless design, and an incredibly powerful floodlight. At 3,000 lumens of peak brightness, the Pro 3 Floodlight is in a league of its own, capable of providing a color view at night that can span entire areas outdoors. Plus, unlike other Arlo cameras, the Pro 3 Floodlight works without a SmartHub, which makes setup a pain-free process, and ultimately, makes it the most accessible in the company's line.

Where the Pro 3 Floodlight falls short of excellence, though, is Arlo's premium price tag, bulky-design, and a required subscription. The Floodlight's clunky design immediately calls attention to it, limiting its placement potential if looks are a concern, and of course, the high price limits its audience. Add in a subscription that locks cloud recording and activity zones behind a monthly fee, or local recording and HomeKit behind a separate SmartHub, and you get a camera floodlight combination that serves a niche market, and is not a camera suitable for everyone.

What you need to know

• The Wyze Cam Outdoor starter kit retails for $50 and is on sale right now. The camera will sell for $40 by itself later this year.
• The camera can be used on the base station with constant power and ethernet connectivity, or wireless on its own.
• Wyze has also created an "offline travel mode" that will record all video to an SD card for some serious versatility.

Outdoor security cameras are a dime a dozen, but Wyze's first fully-wireless outdoor camera might just be enough to catch your attention. At $40, the Wyze Cam Outdoor is the least expensive camera in its class, with features that even more expensive cameras don't seem to have. It's got 1080p video and a 110-degree field-of-view, 8x night vision LEDs for solid illumination in the dark, two-way audio, and even 8x digital zoom.

The camera is designed to be taken practically anywhere. Wyze describes it as a great way to temporarily set up during the spring to see a Robin's next, or to set in the crawl space to find the critter that roams around at night. If you're using it at home and are connected to your home's Wi-Fi, the camera can store all captured video in the cloud for free for 14-days. The Wyze Cam Outdoor also supports up to 32GB SD cards, so you can opt for local storage instead.

But it's more versatile than most outdoor cameras in this class because it doesn't actually need to be connected to Wi-Fi at all times. Wyze has included an "offline travel mode" that lets users take the camera anywhere they need to record offline. That includes taking it on vacation or anywhere else it might make sense to keep a visual record of things, with everything being stored on the SD card for easy access later.

Wyze Band review — how is this thing only $25?

$50 gets you the starter bundle, which includes a camera base and goes on sale today, June 23. The base station that comes with the kit connects to your home's network via ethernet cable and transmits a wireless signal that your Wyze Cam Outdoor cameras connect to. This one has a 50ft maximum distance, so you won't be able to place it too far from the base station if you want a consistent connection to the cloud. Additional cameras can be purchased for $40 a piece and will be available later this year.

Each camera comes with a mounting bracket that can be screwed in anywhere, and the camera easily attaches to the bracket via magnets. The camera is powered by 2x 2,600mAh rechargeable batteries, which are rated at 3-6 months of use depending on settings used. It's also IP65 rated for water and dust resistance, which should be just fine for anything the cameras will encounter outdoors.

What you need to know

• Arlo has introduced the Essential Spotlight Camera.
• Affordable camera connects via Wi-Fi and does not require a base station.
• Camera is available for pre-orders today, with shipping beginning in July.

Arlo has expanded its smart security camera lineup with the introduction of the affordable, Essential Spotlight Camera today. The Arlo Essential Spotlight Camera, which is available for pre-orders now, is designed for quick and easy set up over Wi-Fi, without a separate base station or hub required.

Despite the lower price, the Essential Spotlight Camera retains Arlo staples including 1080p high definition video with a wide 130-degree field of view, two-way audio, integrated spotlight, night vision, and a siren. The spotlight gives owners access to color night vision, and can be set to turn on with motion events or manually via the Arlo app.

The completely wireless camera comes in two color options, the standard Arlo white, and a black variant. The camera works both indoors and out with year-round weather resistance and can be wall mounted with the included hardware. The camera is powered by a rechargeable battery that promises long life, similar to other Arlo options.

The Essential Spotlight Camera comes with a 3 month trial to Arlo's Smart subscription service, which provides a rolling 30-days of cloud storage, as well as A.I. image filtering for smart notifications. The camera can also integrate with services such as Amazon's Alexa, IFTTT, and the Google Assistant for automations and voice controls.

Even though a hub is not required, owners of select Arlo base stations can tie the latest camera into it for increased range and battery life. Supported base stations include the Arlo VMB4000, VMB4540, VMB4500, and the VMB5000.

The Arlo Essential Spotlight Camera is available for pre-orders today at Arlo.com with a suggested retail price of $129.99, and are slated to ship on July 13th. The camera will also be available at select retailers including Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart soon.

Affordable smart security cameras are pretty much a dime a dozen these days, with thousands available at places like Amazon for as little as $20. However, low-cost options usually have some fairly significant trade-offs, like terrible image quality, janky app experiences, or security issues that can broadcast your daily life to millions. Things are changing, though, with companies including Wyze and Anker's smart home arm, eufy, leading a new charge with cost-effective options that do not skimp on the important stuff.

eufy, in particular, has been on a roll as of late, with the company releasing several of my favorite completely wireless outdoor cameras and a video doorbell over the past few months. They have also continuously improved their offerings by adding features like Apple's HomeKit for free through firmware updates. The latest releases from eufy, the Indoor Cam Pan 2K and the Indoor Cam 2K, are both as you would expect, aimed at the great indoors, and both come with an incredibly low price tag.

I have spent the last two weeks with the Indoor Cam Pan 2K, and have been blown away by the sheer amount of features, image quality, and attention to detail that comes with a camera that is priced at $50. Motorized pan and tilt, custom motion zones, and a subscription-free local storage option make this camera one to look for. While eufy wasn't able to meet its promise of HomeKit support at launch, this camera is definitely worth taking the gamble on if you are in the market, its just that good.

Update July 2020: eufy has released an update to the Indoor Cam Pan 2K that adds support for HomeKit and HomeKit Secure Video.

Fully-loaded

eufy Indoor Cam Pan 2K: The features

Physically, the eufy Indoor Cam Pan 2K takes on the form of a traditional pan and tilt camera, with a soft all-white, rounded dome-like design for its frame, with a black lens portion in the shape of a circle. The majority of the camera's exterior can move in either direction through an integrated motor, which provides a complete 360-degree look of the room it is placed in. The camera does not physically spin around freely, though, instead, it relies on a series of motions that turns the camera all the way around in one direction before moving back to cover the other.

On the base of the camera is a small circular LED status indicator, which is set to solid blue when powered on, and alternates between red and blue when motion is detected. Also on the base is a small speaker area that enables two-way audio in combination with an integrated microphone, and it can produce a siren sound to deter intruders when motion is detected or manually.

Around the back is a micro-USB port which is used for powering the camera, and a small setup button that is used during the pairing process and for performing a factory reset. On the lens portion of the camera, there is a micro-SD card slot that is, rather cleverly, only exposed when the camera is turned off, or when manually tilting it upward. The micro-SD card enables local on-device storage for videos, and supports up to 128gb cards, but one is not included with the camera.

The cameras design allows for simple placement on a shelf or table, and eufy includes a mounting plate in the box. The mounting plate allows the camera to attach to walls and ceilings with just a couple of the included screws, but it should be noted that installing it on a wall will look somewhat awkward as the camera does not pivot from the base. While the camera works in this position, eufy does sell an optional accessory mount that positions the camera upright if desired.

As its name suggests, eufy's camera is capable of streaming and recording video in 2K HD resolution. The camera sports a wide 125-degree field of view, and includes eight infrared LED's for night vision that can cover up to 32.8 feet away. The integrated motor allows the camera to follow movement in front of it, but it does not zoom in, relying on an 8x digital zoom that must be manually activated with a pinch in the eufy Security app.

eufy's camera connects directly to home networks via 2.4ghz Wi-Fi, without a separate dedicated hub. Once connected, It can be linked to voice assistants like Amazon's Alexa and the Google Assistant, but the Indoor Cam Pan 2K does not work with Apple's HomeKit at this time (more on that later). Connected features within the eufy Security app include remote controls for panning and tilting, manually recording, activating two-way audio, and more.

In addition to local recording, the camera can connect to network attached storage for continuous recording, as well as a subscription based cloud option directly from eufy. A 30-day trial to the cloud service is included with the camera and can be activated without entering credit card information, and once expired, plans start at $2.99 a month for one camera. Cloud plans provide 14 days of rolling video storage, but footage can be saved for archival purposes directly through the app onto the on-device storage of phones and tablets. eufy also offers a web-portal for viewing through a browser, which includes a live view and event timeline, but using it requires Adobe's Flash plug-in, which is just absurd in this day and age.

Smooth and silent

eufy Indoor Cam Pan 2K: What I like

Setting up the camera is relatively pain-free, with the entire process consisting of downloading the eufy Security app, creating an account, and adding it through a series of easy to understand prompts. A few steps into the process, the app will instruct users to scan a QR code that is located on the bottom of the camera, and then follow it up with pressing and holding the setup button around the back. Even with account creation and unboxing, set up should only take around 10 minutes or less.

Once paired, I like how controls for all of the camera's features are available while viewing a live feed, and only more advanced settings like establishing activity zones are buried in a separate menu. Panning and tilting the camera is easy with the dedicated control pad-like button, and enabling other motorized options like the 360-degree view are just a single tap away. Tracking for the camera works as advertised, but I did notice that it wasn't quite quick enough to keep up with someone walking fast or running by it.

Speaking of the motorized portion, I was really surprised about just how quiet it is when in motion. Before set up, I fully expected the motor to make its presence known when in use, but this is not the case. You will more than likely struggle to hear it at all, even in a quiet room standing right next to it. The motor isn't just quiet though, it is also incredibly smooth when turning in either direction, and remote commands sent via the app executed within a second, which is equally impressive.

Privacy-wise, the motor also enables the camera to rotate so that it looks in-ward automatically when the camera is switched off in the app, which is definitely a nice touch. Like many, I have concerns about having a camera inside the home, so I can simply turn it on when heading out and not have to worry about a potentially live feed being on at all times. The same goes for recording, as I appreciate eufy providing local recording to a micro-SD card, and a subscription to its cloud service is completely optional and is not something that is suggested every time you open the app.

I also love how eufy doesn't require their cloud subscription to enable "premium" features like other manufacturers. Simply purchasing the camera gives you access to motion activity zones, which can include multiple areas, as well as image analysis, notifications, and sound detection. Image analysis works on-device to determine what is happening in front of the cameras view to limit nuisance notifications and prevent recordings to occur when something like a pet walks by. The same applies to sound detection, which enables the camera to notify owners only if it hears things such as a baby crying, which is incredibility thoughtful.

Moving over to image quality, the eufy Indoor Cam Pan 2K provides fantastic detailed visuals, both day and night, but just looking at it through my iPhone, I can't quite say for certain that the camera truly produces 2K footage. By default, the camera uses adaptive quality for streaming, and 2K for recording, but I found that neither matches the quality of Logitech's recently released Circle View, or the ecobee SmartCamera at least for well-lit areas. Night vision is a slightly different story, as I prefer the image on eufy's camera to the others, and in both cases, I prefer the camera's 125-degree field of view. Regardless, for the price, the quality of the Indoor Cam Pan 2K's picture is definitely good enough for most scenarios.

Marketing mistake

eufy Indoor Cam Pan 2K: What I don't like

When it comes to finding faults with the eufy Indoor Cam Pan 2K, there simply isn't much to be found, at least on the hardware side of things. Sure I could point out that it relies on a micro-USB cable for power, but the other end of the cable is USB-A, which actually makes it quite convenient. I could also mention again that while it can be wall mounted right out of the box, using the included hardware makes the camera stick out, as it won't be in an upright position. Finally, the camera is only intended for use indoors, which is kind of a bummer as its panning and tilting just seems made for outside applications, but the camera's name makes that abundantly clear.

So what keeps the eufy Indoor Cam Pan 2K from being perfect? Well, it is shipping to customers without support for Apple's HomeKit. Normally, I would refrain from docking a product if a company merely announces its intention to support HomeKit at some point after shipping, but eufy made the mistake of advertising the camera as being compatible during its pre-order campaign. To make matters worse, eufy includes a reference to HomeKit support right on the box in its list of features, which will only create confusion and disappointment.

It isn't all doom and gloom though, as eufy has followed through on adding HomeKit support to its eufy Cam 2 and 2C lines after their initial release, and the company currently has beta firmware available that enables it for those willing to risk a little instability. eufy also recently announced that the delay will give the company time to implement HomeKit Secure Video and it is targeting a mid-July general release.

I have been running the beta firmware on my camera since I began testing, and while I have seen a few instances of the camera becoming completely unresponsive in the Home app, it does seem like it is really close to an actual release. I will also mention that the beta also does indeed include support for HomeKit Secure Video, which is huge for a camera at such a low price, as it gives you access to secure cloud storage using your existing iCloud storage plan. HomeKit also provides an extra layer of privacy, with the ability to lock the camera down to just local access only by using a HomeKit Secure Router.

Almost perfect

eufy Indoor Cam Pan 2K: The Bottom Line

In the end, even with the glaring HomeKit marketing mistake, the eufy Indoor Cam Pan 2K is about as close to perfection that you can get for the category. This incredible camera packs in so many features, for so little money that I can easily say that it should be the goto option for pretty much everyone. Crisp 2K HD visuals, local storage option, surprisingly good night vision, motorized panning/tilting, and great reliability, the eufy Indoor Cam Pan 2K has it all. Throw in support for Amazon's Alexa and the Google Assistant, and you clearly have a compelling camera.

Once HomeKit does make its way to the masses, it will add even more value to a camera whose price is easily two to three times less than its HomeKit-enabled competitors. However, with all things HomeKit though, you should absolutely never purchase a product based on a promise, especially if you rely solely on Apple's platform. In this case though, this camera is so good and so affordable, that it makes it worth the risk. For those that do not use HomeKit though, well, what are you waiting for?

What you need to know

• Swann has announced the release of a new 1080p wireless smart camera.
• The Swann Wire-Free Security Camera provides free face recognition for up to 10 people.
• Latest camera also includes 7-days of free cloud storage, and a local storage option.

Following a pair of camera releases just last month, Swann has announced that its latest Wire-Free Security Camera is now available starting today. The latest camera not only includes several smart home staples such as app and voice controls, but it also comes with free face recognition and cloud storage.

As its name suggests, the Wire-Free Security Camera is completely wireless, connecting to home networks via Wi-Fi, and it is powered by an internal rechargeable battery that can last up to 3 months. The camera sports an IP65 weather resistance rating, allowing it to be placed both indoors and out, and it records in 1080p HD resolution with an 180 degree ultra-wide field of view. The camera works in conjunction with the Swann Security app, as well as with both Amazon's Alexa and the Google Assistant for hands free viewing on compatible devices.

Face recognition technology allows the camera to send notifications or begin recording the moment someone enters its view. Up to 10 faces can be recognized, making it ideal for keeping tabs on when family members arrive home from work or school. Swann's camera also comes with seven days of rolling cloud storage, completely free of charge. For those times where the internet is out, the camera has on-board local storage that can backup up to two days worth of events.

The Swann Wire-Free Security Camera is available now for a retail price of $149.99. The camera can be ordered directly from Swann, and will be available at leading online and retail stores. A five camera bundle will also be available through Sam's Club for $499.

Arlo's line of connected cameras has long been synonymous with smart home security, and for good reason. Arlo made completely wireless cameras mainstream by combining weather resistance, excellent battery life, and high levels of reliability, all of which came in packages with an affordable price tag.

Arlo's move into the world of video doorbells, though, was late and a little odd. At a time when the video doorbell category was picking up steam, Arlo's first entry didn't include the video portion, leaving that up to its camera line. Late last year, the company's first video doorbell finally made an appearance, and just like with the strange release schedule, the doorbell comes with its own quirk, a square video format.

I have been testing out the Arlo Video Doorbell for the past couple of weeks, and I have found its not so traditional approach to be quite refreshing. The square format and a familiar interaction method for answering the door feel right at home on the phone, which makes it one of the best options around if you meet a few requirements.

Square one

Arlo Video Doorbell: The features

The Arlo Video Doorbell captures the action outside of the home with HD quality visuals at a maximum resolution of 1536 x 1536. Arlo's unique square resolution, labeled as 1:1 by the company, trades a more common wider field of view for the ability to better see the ground (and packages) in front of it. The doorbell also supports HDR, and utilizes infrared for night vision, along with having a motion sensor that spans 110 degrees horizontally. An on-board microphone and speaker allows for 2-way audio, and for security, the speaker can play a series of siren tones on demand.

Installation of the doorbell requires existing doorbell wiring as it lacks a battery powered option. Powering the doorbell requires 16-24V from a doorbell transformer, which is typical for the category, and a small chime kit is included to allow it to ring your existing fixture. Arlo's doorbell is UV and weather resistant, and can operate in temperature ranging from -4 to 113 degrees Fahrenheit.

Arlo's doorbell sports Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing it to connect directly to a home network without an additional hub. The doorbell works with the Arlo app which provides access to features such as answering calls, motion detection, motion zones, smart notifications, package detection through A.I. image analysis, and remote e911 activation.

Smart home integrations include Amazon's Alexa and the Google Assistant, but does not work with HomeKit at this time. Through Alexa, the doorbell can be set up to ring Amazon Echo devices around the home, have its live feed summoned on demand, and doorbell events can be answered hands-free.

The doorbell does not include any internal storage, and relies primarily on the cloud for recording. Cloud storage requires a subscription to an Arlo Smart plan, which starts at $2.99 a month for 1 camera/doorbell and goes up to $9.99 a month for 5 devices. Each plan includes 30 days of video history, which is presented in the form of a timeline through the Arlo app. A subscription is also required for some of the advanced features like motion zones, and smart notifications.

A familiar view

Arlo Video Doorbell: What I like

Installing the Arlo Doorbell was simple, with just two-wires on the doorbell, and two wires on the chime being the bulk of the job. Arlo includes pretty much everything in the box, including a mounting plate, angle bracket, chime power kit, security key, screws, anchors, wire nuts, and wire extenders. For my installation, only a Philips screwdriver was needed, and the physical portion only took around 5 minutes.

As previously mentioned, Arlo's doorbell utilizes a square format for video, which I am surprisingly, quite fond of. The square format lends itself perfectly for viewing on a phone, and I like how Arlo implemented the live view right into the first screen of the app. While it is not live at first, simply tapping the play button loads the feed right in line without switching over to a different screen. Plus, the app doesn't force you to turn your phone to the landscape orientation, which is just plain nice.

Loading the live feed is fast and responsive, taking just a second or two, and the image quality of the doorbell is crisp and detailed, even at night. Zooming is just as fluid, and I like how most of the doorbell's controls are right where you need them. While I may never use it, I especially like having the ability to set the siren off on demand through the app. Just having the capability definitely adds to the sense of security provided with the doorbell.

Button and motion events captured by the doorbell were delivered to my iPhone quickly, and reliably. I really like how Arlo presents button presses as a standard call, at least on iOS, making the process of answering instantly familiar. Integration with Alexa also worked just as advertised, with the newly released ability to use an Echo device as a chime working flawlessly on my 3rd generation dot.

Yo dawg, I heard you like tapping continue

Arlo Video Doorbell: What I don't like

While the actual physical installation process was quick and easy, setting up the doorbell in the Arlo app was a little annoying. The app portion walks users through each step of the installation process, one by one, each with their own screen that either requires swiping through additional information, or tapping continue.

In total, there were over 40 screens for the entire process, which almost made the app portion longer than wiring the doorbell up. The app doesn't provide users with a way to skip any of this, so in my case, where I am pretty familiar with installing video doorbells, I had completed the install before even opening the app for pairing.

My final complaint about the doorbell is, of course, that a subscription fee is required for cloud recording, setting motion zones, and other smart features. To be fair, Arlo's pricing is reasonable, and it does give users a free 3-month trial to the Arlo Smart plan during setup, but if you don't like the idea of subscriptions, then the Arlo doorbell is just not the right fit.

Now, there IS a way to record locally, but it requires an Arlo base, that is not included in the box, so unless you already have one, there will be extra costs involved after the 3 month trial is up. It would be nice to see Arlo offer up some form of storage without a subscription outside of having a base, such as just 24 hours worth, or through supporting Apple's HomeKit Secure Video feature. Speaking of HomeKit, the doorbell does not support it at all at this time, and I have my doubts as to whether or not Arlo would support the HomeKit Secure Video feature as it covers many of the benefits of Arlo Smart plans.

Solid square

Arlo Video Doorbell: The Bottom Line

The Arlo Video Doorbell is a fantastic option for those looking for great image quality, easy installation, and a slew of useful, smart features. Arlo's unique field of view provides a more natural look at life just outside of the door, and its iOS integration presents users with a familiar way of answering remotely.

All of this adds up to a doorbell that is easy to recommend, if you can meet some of the requirements. If you have an existing hard-wired doorbell, have a capable transformer, don't mind subscriptions, and have no preference on if it supports Apple's HomeKit, then Arlo Video Doorbell is a great choice. However, if you don't meet the requirements, then you will definitely need to look elsewhere.

What you need to know

• August has released an updated version of its popular smart lock.
• New lock is 45% smaller than the previous Pro model.
• Lock now works with HomeKit, Alexa, and Google Assistant without a separate hub.

August has announced that its updated, slimmer and smarter, Wi-Fi Smart Lock is now available. First introduced back at CES 2020, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock replaces an existing deadbolt to enable convenient smart features such as remote access, auto-unlock/locking, and app and voice controls.

The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock sports a significantly smaller footprint than its predecessors, making it a little easier on the eyes when installed. August states that the lock is around 45% smaller in volume, and 20% slimmer than the August Smart Lock Pro, its previous flagship. Despite its smaller size, the lock still retains its iconic circular design, and comes in Silver and Matte Black options.

As its name suggests, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock also includes wireless connectivity built right in. The onboard Wi-Fi means that a separate Connect bridge/hub is no longer required for remote access and smart home integrations. The lock works with Apple's HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, and the Google Assistant, as well as with the August Home app available on both iOS, watchOS, and Android.

In addition to smart controls, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock includes staples such as auto lock/unlocking based on proximity, guest keys, and an activity timeline. The updated lock is compatible with the existing August Keypad for pin code unlocking, and its unique DoorSense feature can alert users if a door is left open or unlocked after a short period of time.

The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock has a retail price of $249.99, and it can be purchased now directly from August.com and Best Buy. The lock will be available through additional retailers starting May 17th.

What you need to know

• Arlo has partnered with Second Harvest food banks to provide meals for families in need.
• Purchases of select Arlo cameras over the next 90 days will provide 25 meals each.
• Cameras include Arlo Video Doorbell, Pro 3 and Ultra lines.

Arlo has announced a partnership with Second Harvest Food Banks that will provide meals for families in need when select smart home cameras are purchased. The campaign, which will run over the next 90 days, will donate 25 meals for every purchase of Arlo Pro 3 cameras, the Arlo Video Doorbell, and the Ultra 4K line.

The partnership was established due to the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has taken its toll on many families across the country. Arlo hopes to provide thousands of meals over the course of the program, with Second Harvest of Silicon Valley and Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County each receiving the donations.

Second Harvest of Silicon Valley has been serving the community since 1974, and distributes food to more than a quarter of a million people every month. Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County has provided the equivalent of 379 million meals to community programs since being established in 1983. For more information about the partnership, you can visit arlo.com, and for more on Second Harvest, you can visit www.shfb.org or www.feedoc.org.

What you need to know

• eufy is preparing to launch its first smart lock next month.
• Upcoming lock will feature fingerprint recognition, keypad, and 365 day battery life.
• The eufy Smart Lock Touch will be available for $179.99.

Updated April 14th, 2020: eufy has confirmed to us that the lock does NOT support HomeKit.

eufy is gearing up for yet another product launch next month, with the latest being a smart door lock. The eufy Smart Lock Touch is the company's first foray into the connected lock market, and it includes several notable features such as fingerprint recognition.

In addition to fingerprint, which is listed as having 0.3 second scan times, the eufy Smart Lock Touch has a digital keypad, app access, and an "original key" which we assume is a physical key. The door lock is completely wireless, providing smart home access via Bluetooth, and is battery powered which is rated for up to 365 days of usage. Rounding out the list of features is a built-in door sensor to determine whether or not it is left open, IP65 water resistance rating, security chip, and auto lock functionality.

Details surrounding voice assistant or smart home integration has not yet been provided, other than it will work with the eufy Security app that is available on both iOS and Android. Current security accessories from the company, such as its smart cameras, support Amazon's Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple's HomeKit. We have reached out to eufy for some clarification surrounding the lock's compatibility and will update accordingly.

Here's the full list of specs:

• 4 Ways to Access Door - Fingerprint + Keypad + App + Original Key
• Bluetooth Connectivity
• 0.3s Fingerprint Recognition
• IP 65 Waterproof
• 365-Day Battery Life
• BHMA Certification: 250K times use
• Auto-Lock
• Built-in Door Sensor
• AES 128 Encryption & Build-In Security Chip

The eufy Smart Lock Touch will be available starting in May with a retail price of $179.99. eufy also plans to release 2 indoor cameras, both of which support HomeKit, and come with an amazingly low price tag, each under $50. eufy also intends to release HomeKit Secure Video support for the eufyCam 2 and 2C sometime in May.

Smart door locks and deadbolts are one of the bigger categories within the smart home world, thanks to their ability to check the status of our points of entry while on the go. Forget to lock the door on the way out? A smart deadbolt can put your mind at ease. Want to know the moment a door opens? You can with notifications through an app on your phone. Need to let someone in to grab something? Just assign them a code or unlock your door with a tap. These smart accessories are simply invaluable.

As you may have guessed, I have a few smart deadbolts/locks in my home already, but as long as there are doors to cover, I will keep installing them. My most recent installation was the Century model of the Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt line, which has been one of the best experiences that I have had with a lock to date.

The deadbolt was easy to install, requiring just one tool, and thanks to HomeKit, it was ready for all of the Siri and app goodness in a matter of minutes. The Century model is also easy on the eyes, at least on the outside portion, and little added bonuses like a built-in alarm make it a solid choice for anyone in the market.

Clean design

Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt: The features

The Schlage Sense line comes in two different trim designs, the sleek modern looking Century, and a more traditional Camelot model. Each model comes in two finishes, sharing a standard Satin Nickel color, but things differ for the darker versions, with the Century getting a Matte Black style versus Aged Bronze. Both models have a lighted touch-based keypad on the outside portion, but feature a different font to better fit the overall theme.

In addition to a keypad for quick entry, the Schlage Sense has a backup physical key cylinder with 1 key included in the box. The deadbolt connects to HomeKit via Bluetooth, keeping energy consumption down as it runs on 4 AA batteries, which are also, thankfully included. Schlage states that the lock should run about a year before its batteries will need to be replaced, and suggests that you replace them at the same time as your smoke detector batteries to stay on top of it. While I cannot vouch for just how long battery life will be, having the lock installed for just a little over a week, I can report that the Schlage Home app shows 100% on my batteries even after my initial testing.

Schlage's hardware is listed as BHMA (Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association) certified, with ratings of AAA in security, durability, and finish. Schlage offers a 3 year limited warranty for the electrical components of the Sense, and a limited lifetime warranty for mechanical parts and finish. Unlike some of the other smart deadbolts that I have installed, Schlage includes a reinforcement plate and extra-long screws in the box that are required to perform at the BHMA certified levels of security.

Another unique feature of the deadbolt is that it includes a built-in alarm. This alarm allows it to sound when it detects any forced entry attempts, and it can act as a chime to alert those within the home if the door opens or closes. While the chime and alarm features can be replicated through HomeKit automations with speakers or other accessories, it is nice to see it just built-in to ensure that something will always be available should an issue arise.

Smart connectivity is powered by Bluetooth, connecting the deadbolt directly to your phone, or a smart home platform such as HomeKit. Remotely accessing the deadbolt requires a HomeKit hub, such as an Apple TV, HomePod, or iPad, and for those not using HomeKit, a Wi-Fi adapter is needed to bridge its Bluetooth connection to your local network. There are no subscriptions for extra features, and in its out of the box configuration using just Bluetooth, there are no clouds involved. Smart features include standards such as app access, assignable pin codes, schedules, and status reports through a connected voice assistant.

HomeKit ready

Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt: What I like

Installing the Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt was a breeze, taking under 20 minutes from start to finish, and requiring just a screwdriver. Once installed, pairing the deadbolt to Apple's HomeKit was also quite easy, with just a simple scan of the included HomeKit code, and it was ready to go. Downloading and installing the Schlage Home app is completely optional, bypassing the need to create yet another account which is a huge plus in my book.

For additional controls and settings however, the Schlage Home app is required, and for these purposes, it gets the job done with little distractions. Settings within the app include disabling the built-in alarm, keypad beeps, auto-lock delay, and 1-touch locking, all accessible with simple toggles. Some security settings such as forced entry are set to off as default which I found to be a little strange, but it was painless enough to flip to on.

Performance-wise, the Schlage Sense has worked admirably, always showing as available through the Home app, and always responding to commands via app and voice. The touch portion of the keypad on the outside portion of the lock is also responsive, coming to life with a neat fade-in effect when activated. The deadbolt turns smoothly, manually and via remote controls, but like other smart solutions, it is somewhat noisy when in operation.

Access codes can also be assigned within the app, enabling up to 30 unique codes to be assigned to friends, family, or guests. I liked how the app allowed for codes that utilize more than just 4 digits, supporting up to 8 total, which is nice to see for a little extra peace of mind. I also liked how the Schlage Sense app could also limit when codes were able to be used, preventing access to the home outside of set times, which could be handy for reoccurring visitors, or simply as a nice to have in case you forget to disable a code.

Junk in the trunk

Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt: What I don't like

Despite the front, or outside portion of the Schlage Sense having one of the best looking designs around, the interior assembly piece is not quite as sleek. When compared to one of my existing smart deadbolts, the Reagle Smart Deadbolt, the Schlage Sense is both much wider and taller, plus it also extends out further from the door. I assume that this is because Schlage's offering has a built-in alarm, but it does stick out like a sore thumb, screaming that it is a connected lock.

As I previously mentioned, the Schlage Sense has been extremely reliable since installation, responding to every command sent via the Home app and Siri. However, since the Sense utilizes Bluetooth for connectivity, it can take a little time before the lock secures your door or unlocks it once a command is sent. Executing an initial command to, say, lock the door took around 5 seconds on average, with subsequent commands taking 2-3 seconds if sent within a few moments after.

I will note that the Sense's response time is pretty much par for the course with Bluetooth accessories, so its not a flaw of the deadbolt itself, and speeds can, of course, vary depending on proximity. Speaking of Bluetooth, the Schlage Sense can only connect to Apple's HomeKit right out of the box. Since I am fully immersed in all things HomeKit it didn't prevent me from integrating it with my home, but those that live that Alexa and Google Assistant life will need a Wi-Fi adapter which adds a little more to the price tag.

Sleek and smart

Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt: The Bottom Line

When it comes to smart deadbolts, the Schlage Sense line is simply one of the best around for its combination of security, reliability, good looks, and easy installation. Reinforced hardware, a built-in alarm, and a secure-local connection to HomeKit keeps access to your home in your hands. However, if your needs evolve and you want to connect it to a web service such as Alexa or the Google Assistant, you can with an optional adapter, again putting you in control.

The Schlage Sense is also highly reliable, always ready for commands or a quick status check on-demand via the Home app, Schlage's app, or Siri. Reliability is also bolstered by a fantastic warranty policy, protecting the investment for years to come. The Century model of the Sense with its modern design and sleek keypad also happens to have one of the best looking deadbolt designs available, making the whole package an absolute winner.

While smart home security systems are seemingly a dime a dozen these days, a true DIY alarm solution eluded Apple's HomeKit platform for many years after its introduction way back with iOS 8. This meant that HomeKit users have had to either rely on a professionally installed service/hardware, or they had cobble their own system together mixing a sensor here with a camera there, all without a way to "arm" their homes while they are away, or a siren to alert those within the home.

Thankfully, smart home security company Abode recently came through with a long-promised HomeKit integration update, that finally brought a subscription-free alarm system that users could operate entirely through Apple's Home app and Siri. The Abode iota Security Kit is an affordable, easy to install solution that covers the basics of home security, giving owners the choice on how much they want to invest, both for hardware and for monitoring.

I recently set up the iota Security Kit for my home, and even though my home has just about every type of HomeKit sensor that you can imagine, I really appreciate having a true set of accessories around that are devoted to securing my household. Hearing the familiar alarm sounds that come along with the simple act of "arming" my home for the night, or while leaving to run errands, provides me with a level of reassurance that has been missing from my life for quite a while, making the kit one of the best additions that I have made to my smart home.

Covering the basics

Abode iota Security Kit: The features

The iota Security Kit consists of the company's Mini Door/Window Sensor, a Keyfob, and the iota hub that acts as the brains behind the operation. The iota hub is a sleek two-tone accessory that is similar in size to Apple's AirPort Extreme router. The plastic top half has a glossy black finish, with an integrated 1080p HD night vision capable camera that spans 152 degrees with its field of view positioned slightly above a motion sensor.

The bottom portion of the iota is covered in a white fabric that gives it a distinct look, and underneath lies a single LED indicator light that glows softly depending on the alarm status. The iota hub has an ethernet port around the back, which is required for the initial setup, along with a sim card slot (one is pre-installed) and a micro-SD card slot for local video storage. Cloud storage for video recordings is available for free, so the memory card is completely optional, and not included.

The iota hub is home to tons of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi for home networking, Z-Wave and ZigBee for connecting devices from other manufacturers, and the company's own abodeRF radio that it uses for all of its accessories. For alarms, a 93-decibel siren is packed in, as well as a microphone for 2-way communication, and an internal rechargeable backup battery that keeps the whole system running even when the power is out.

Abode's keyfob also sports the same two-tone design as the iota hub and has 4 buttons around the back that control the various alarm states. The keyfob runs on a single CR2032 coin battery with an estimated life expectancy of around 6 years. The Mini Door/Window Sensor is a two-piece contact sensor, that relies on magnets to determine whether or not things are opened or closed. Just like the keyfob, the Mini sensor enjoys a long battery life of up to 4 years on a coin battery, and when replacement time comes, Abode has made things easy with a velcro mounting tape that includes a cutout for easy access.

Supports all the things

Abode iota Security Kit: What I like

Since the iota Security Kit is a DIY alarm system, it can function entirely without the need for a subscription, which is huge in my book. Typically, free plans for smart home accessories often limit access to critical features, essentially making an upgrade to a paid service almost mandatory. This is not the case with the iota, as Abode provides all of the critical aspects of security completely free. This includes self-monitoring through notifications, smart home integrations, unlimited user accounts, and a rolling 3-days of alarm history and recordings.

Abode's professional monitoring plans span 2 tiers, each of which are affordably priced in their own right, but often receive additional discounts through various promotions, such as one for 50% off, that is available at the time of this review. Paid plans add in nice to have features such as 4g cellular back up that can still alert you to issues at home even when your internet is down, and unlimited warranty coverage for your accessories with an active subscription.

Of course, being "all-in" with the Apple ecosystem, HomeKit integration is rather important to me and often dictates which accessories make the cut when it comes to entering my home. The Abode iota Security Kit plays along rather nicely, with the built-in camera, motion sensor, and door/window sensor all being exposed to Apple's platform and the Home app.

Having each accessory available in HomeKit allows them to work with scenes or automations, and the added security alarm function adds a convenient way to toggle on or off other devices by just arming the system. Sure, shouting to Siri or using the Home app to toggle a scene that turns off everything when leaving is available, but sometimes it is just easier to press a button, which the included Keyfob covers when using automations. Just push one of the available buttons while heading out the door, or while sitting in the car, and your automation that is tied to the alarm state is set in motion.

Since the iota utilizes RF for connectivity and not something like Bluetooth which is commonplace for HomeKit, response times from the included accessories was pretty much instant. Arming the alarm using the Keyfob started the countdown process with no delay, and opening a window with the Mini Door/Window sensor attached set the iota's siren blaring within a second. Notifications for each event arrived within a second or two as well, both from the Abode app, and the built-in iOS Home app.

The iota system has also been extremely reliable, with no issues with connectivity seen, aside from instances of no response showing in the Home app after the first time that I paired it (more on that in a minute). Once the Home app issues were corrected, the system has been available for automations and control through HomeKit ever since.

Privacy concerns

Abode iota Security Kit: What I don't like

While the hardware included along with the iota Security Kit has a premium look and feel, Abode's app lacks the same fit and finish which somewhat dampens the overall experience. Yes, you can perform most basic tasks within the app just fine, however, pulling up the camera feed is a little slow, and there are a lot of features that are simply not available, such as notification settings which are only currently accessible via a not so mobile friendly web portal.

Another is that the app (along with the included documentation and website) fails to mention how to reset the system if problems arise. After seeing some issues with the system showing no response in HomeKit after initially setting it up, I removed it from the Home app, and unfortunately, could never get it to show up again. The only way to fix this was by resetting the iota, which involves pressing a button hidden underneath the fabric on the front of the accessory, a process that I only found thanks to a post on Reddit. I am not quite sure as to why I only saw this after pairing the system the first time, but pairing it the second time cleared things up.

Perhaps the biggest missing feature is with regards to privacy, where a simple toggle for disabling the iota's built-in microphone is no-where to be found. There is a setting to disable the video feed on the camera, but not the mic, so even though you cannot see what is going on, you can still hear all of the action from within the app. This is a strange omission, especially considering the onslaught of privacy-related issues that seemingly make the rounds every day, and is one that will certainly keep some potential buyers away.

The all-seeing eye

Abode iota Security Kit The Bottom Line

Despite some flaws that could (and should) be easily fixed through app updates, the iota Security Kit is one of the best DIY security systems on the market today. Abode's hardware and accessory lineup are top-notch, offering fast response times, high levels of reliability, and thoughtful touches such as an integrated camera and back-up battery. The iota Security Kit includes everything you need to get started on your home security journey, and Abode offers tons of additional accessories to expand coverage as your needs evolve.

Abode's decision to allow users to monitor their own homes without requiring a subscription is also a much-needed breath of fresh air that bucks the current trends. Professional monitoring plans are available if desired, but you can certainly get by with the free tier, giving everyone the best of both worlds. If you are in the market for a DIY smart security system that plays nicely with all of the major voice assistants, then the iota Security Kit should definitely be on your list.

What you need to know

• Cameras join line up of smart home security products.
• Both indoor and outdoor cameras are completely wireless.
• An additional USB powered camera will also be available.

Following up the introduction of the company's smart video doorbell and garage door opener, Array by Hampton has revealed three new security cameras to protect the home. Two of the three cameras offer a built-in rechargeable battery, creating an easy way for owners to get up and running without stringing along messy wires.

The Array by Hampton Indoor Camera offers 1080p HD video, along with a 130-degree viewing angle. The camera supports 2-way audio for speaking with those in its view, and it connects to your existing Wi-Fi network without an additional hub. The indoor camera works with both cloud and indoor storage options, which works over USB if users prefer a wired approach.

The Array Outdoor Camera comes mostly the same specs as its indoor sibling, with a slightly different 110-degree field of view. The Outdoor Camera has a IP65 weather resistance rating, and it provides instant notifications when motion is sensed through the Array app. Both the indoor and outdoor variants use color night vision and can last up to 4 months on a single charge. For additional power, a solar panel will also be available.

Array's more traditional indoor camera ditches the battery in favor of an always ready to go, USB power source. All three of the company's latest cameras work with all of the smart home assistants, including Amazon's Alexa, the Google Assistant, and Siri through Shortcut and widget functionality.

Pricing for the cameras has not yet been revealed, but all three should be available starting in April of this year.

What you need to know

• Video doorbell works for up to 4 months on a charge.
• Garage door opener works with geofencing for location based access.
• Both accessories will be available in the Spring.

Smart home security experts, Hampton Products, have introduced a connected video doorbell and garage door opener at CES 2020 in Las Vegas. Hampton's latest products offer users a way to keep an eye on their front porch, and their garages through the Array by Hampton app as well as with voice assistants such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri via Siri Shortcuts support.

The Array by Hampton Video Doorbell features IP65 weather resistance in a compact frame that offers 2-way voice capabilities and a "no fisheye" view of its surroundings. The doorbell is powered by a rechargeable battery which can last up to 4 months on a single charge, and when it comes time to topping it off, it can be charged with any standard micro-USB cable. Infrared night vision is also supported, as well as a separate indoor chime, which users can customize with different sounds.

Array's smart app will provide notifications for any motion that is seen or when its button is pressed, and users will be able to review a running log of activity for their home. The doorbell can operate without the need of an additional hub, connecting directly to a Wi-Fi network, and it can work with other Array by Hampton accessories for increased security.

Notifications and integration with accessories also extends to the Array by Hampton Garage Door Opener, which was announced alongside the Video Doorbell. The Garage Door Opener works to keep owners informed of the status of their garage door, and also with geofencing technology that can automatically open or close the door when arriving or leaving their home.

The Garage Door Opener can also operate independent of a hub, and the company states that it is compatible with "most major garage door openers". The Garage Door Opener consists of what looks to be a combination of a smart plug that users will plug their existing opener to, and wiring directly to the opener's terminals.

The Array by Hampton Video Doorbell will be available starting in April, followed by the release of the Garage Door Opener in May.

Security cameras are some of the most popular, and most important accessories of the modern smart home. These connected cameras keep us informed of the state of our homes, both inside and out, at all times. If something happens to be amiss, smart cameras give us the ability to review and share videos instantly, helping to identify culprits, or that pesky animal that keeps tearing up the garden.

While it certainly isn't the first all-wireless camera system around, the eufyCam 2 comes with a refreshing way to manage recordings, doing so without the need for a subscription. This, coupled with a low entry cost, makes it one of the most affordable, and feature packed accessories around. I recently had the chance to test out a two camera starter kit from eufy, and I have found to be a fantastic option for those in the camera market, especially for those that value privacy as it works with Apple's HomeKit.

Wireless convenience

eufyCam 2: The features

Just like its name suggests, the eufyCam 2 operates completely wirelessly, allowing true flexibility when it comes to finding a mounting position. Being completely wireless opens the door to locations that would be impossible, or a hassle, to use with traditional cameras, and an IP67 weather resistance rating means you don't have to worry about the outdoor elements. The camera features an all white frame, with a black front, which makes it blend in to surroundings when looking at it head on, and while it certainly works indoors, the design just screams outdoor security camera.

Included with the camera system is a Homebase unit, which connects directly to your home's router. The Homebase comes in your standard nondescript white rectangular shape, with a small status light on the front. Around the back is the barrel power connector port, next to an ethernet port and a small sync button for pairing cameras. The Homebase also has a internal speaker that announces when it is ready to start the set up process, and when it is ready to add cameras.

Being completely wireless, it would be reasonable to expect that video quality would suffer, but the eufyCam 2 supports 1080p video for both live streaming and recordings, which is impressive. To make images even better, eufy employs what they call "Smart Image Enhancement" technology which uses artificial intelligence to focus in on humans when a motion event occurs. A.I. also allows for the elimination of false motion alerts by determining what is in front of the camera's view, something that other manufacturer's charge for as part of their cloud packages.

Perhaps the biggest feature that the eufyCam 2 has is its battery life, which can last up to an entire year on a single charge. Obviously actual usage may cause battery life to vary, but eufy states that they are able to achieve 365 days of operation with 10 motion events a day, with 30 second recordings occuring each time. The batteries are not removable, and topping them off requires plugging a micro-USB cable into the back of the camera. Longevity of the battery may also vary, but eufy says that users should expect up to 300 full battery cycles (0 to 100%), which would put it around 5 years of expected life.

HomeKit integration

eufyCam 2: What I like

Installing the eufyCam 2's around the outside of my home was quick and easy, requiring just 2 screws. The actual mount portion is compact, and the additional pieces, such as the adjustment arm and the cameras themselves simply screw into it. In total it took around 5 minutes to put up a camera, and lining up the cameras to the perfect view was equally as easy, with a simple pull or push in the desired direction. I was initially afraid that the camera's heavier weight would cause issues with keeping the camera in place, but I am happy to report that this is not the case at all, with the camera feeling extremely sturdy, able to withstand minor bumps.

Pulling up the camera's live feed was also quite fast, with both the eufy Security app and the Home app on iOS displaying them within just a second or two. I did notice that image quality took a few additional seconds to clear up after loading a live view, which is similar to how other cameras look upon first viewing a stream. Once the video settled in, it was clear and crisp, making it easy to determine who or what is within its view. Videos record in the same 1080p resolution, and they are stored locally on the Homebase, and not on a server, which is great for privacy's sake.

Along with the local recording, I like how the cameras can work entirely through Apple's HomeKit, making things even more private since there is no account that someone could potentially guess their way into. For those outside of the Apple ecosystem, the eufyCam 2 also works with Amazon's Alexa and the Google Assistant, which makes it one of the more flexible options. Of course the biggest plus is the lack of a subscription fee, which extends to everyone, making the initial purchase the only amount you will need to pay. Unlike competitors, the lack of a reoccuring fee doesn't keep you from "smart" features such as motion zones or A.I. analysis, which was really nice to see.

Design flaws

eufyCam 2: What I don't like

Even though the eufyCam 2 supports Apple's HomeKit, actually getting the system into the Home app was a slightly confusing process. Since HomeKit support was in the midst of rolling out when I was testing the cameras, the instructions were missing a crucial step, which caused some frustration. However, the documentation has since been updated, and with the correct steps, it is possible to use just Apple's Home app, bypassing the eufy Security app entirely, making pairing a breeze.

With the eufyCam 2 in the Home app, the camera functions just like other HomeKit cameras on the market, minus one feature. Unfortunately, 2-way audio is currently not available in the Home app, which seems like an odd omission that I suspect will come soon in a future update. The eufy Security app supports the feature, along with additional things such as motion zones, so those that do not want to use HomeKit will have access to everything right out of the box.

On the hardware side of things, I found the decision to make the camera batteries non-removable to be a head scratcher, as it makes charging them less convenient than offerings from others. The cameras seem to be living up to their 365 day battery life claims so far, so they will likely not need charging often, but it would have been much better to just swap in a fresh battery when it comes time.

The Bottom Line

eufyCam 2 Wireless Home Security Camera System

Despite its flaws, the eufyCam 2 Wireless Home Security Camera System is still one of the better all wireless cameras around, and it is an easy one to recommend if you are in the market. This system includes all of the basics, but adds in great battery life, IP67 weather resistance, and 1080p video, all in a package that doesn't require a subscription fee to access your recordings in the cloud. The eufyCam 2 supports all of the voice assistants, including HomeKit, which makes it one of just 2 completely wireless cameras that can make that claim. The ability to keep things private by using just HomeKit, as well as HomeKit Secure Video in a future update, makes the eufyCam 2 a clear winner.

Traveling is synonymous with the holidays, and unfortunately, so are break-ins and package theft. However, you can fight back, and keep your home protected using smart accessories and alarm systems. There are devices for just about every situation that can occur while you are gone, so here are our tips on how to secure your home for the holidays.

Keep the lights on

Just because you are away from your home, it doesn't mean that it has to look like no one is around. The easiest way to deter would-be intruders is to make your home look like it does every day, using smart lighting.

Most smart home lighting products, such as light bulbs, switches, and smart plugs, come with the ability to schedule when they turn on and off, either at specific times or according to the time of day, such as sunset. Typically this can be set up via an App, making scheduling just a few taps and swipes away.

Use this ability to your advantage by creating schedules that follow your typical routine at home, such as having your lights turn on in the mornings and evenings. You can take things even further by using randomization options with your schedules, which turn on your lights a few minutes before or after your designated times just to mix things up a bit in case someone is observing your home's patterns.

For the outdoors, you can combine smart lighting with motion sensors to shine a light on those snooping around your property. These sensors can also send notifications to all of your devices, creating a situation where you can leave the lights off, but still be aware of the action outside.

Plugged in

In addition to using lighting with smart plugs, you can also use these handy little accessories with other electronics, such as televisions and radios. Scheduling your TV to turn on at random times during the day not only produces sounds of conversations and noises that others around your home may hear, it makes your home look alive at night from the outside.

Obviously, a radio or speaker gives those lurking around your home a sense that someone is jamming out to tunes inside. Since its the holidays, you can make your home sound like a traditional family get-together or party with some choice tracks as well.

Know for sure

We have all been there at one point during our travels, that moment when you begin to question whether or not you locked the doors. Thankfully, smart home technology has got us covered, with accessories that can not only report the status of your home, but also give you the ability to control them from afar.

Consider installing a smart door lock on the entry that you use the most often before you head out on your travels. While they may look a little daunting at first, installing a smart door lock is actually really simple, requiring just a screwdriver and a little patience. Most locks are universal, either replacing your existing deadbolt entirely, or working in tandem with them with all the electronics on the inside.

Garage too

Just like with your doors, your garage door is also one of those things that may leave you wondering if you truly closed it before leaving. Smart garage door openers and controllers are the best way to give you a little peace of mind during your travels, and they are surprisingly affordable.

If you are already in the market for a new garage door opener, then take a look at options that come with Wi-Fi connectivity built-in. These models only cost a few dollars more, and having an all-in-one solution keeps things simpler and easier to manage. The only downside to these are that they may be out of your area of expertise when it comes to installation, requiring a call to a professional.

Don't want to replace your existing garage door opener? Then an add-on controller kit is the best option for you. These kits usually consist of a small tilt sensor, that attaches directly to your garage door via mounting tape or screws, and they communicate to a hub inside of your home which sends signals to your opener.

For additional security, some garage doors have a manual deadbolt style lock that can keep the door from opening even if someone manages to guess your keypad code or mimic your remotes signal. If you don't have one of these locks, but still want to make sure that someone doesn't crack your code, you can use a smart plug to turn off the power to your opener until you get home.

Eyes on the prize

Home security cameras are one of the largest categories for smart home devices, for a good reason. These awesome little accessories can keep us in the know about our home's activity at all times. While privacy is certainly important, placing one of these in your living room while you are traveling is an easy way to keep tabs on your home, and it gives your local authorities something to refer to in case a break-in occurs. Smart cameras have certainly come down in price, and if you are only going to use it while out of the home, they are definitely worthy of your consideration.

Outdoor security cameras are where you may want to splurge a little bit to get an accessory that will provide everything you are looking for since they won't be watching the inside of your home. Look for a camera that has at least 720p video recording, night vision, and 2-way audio, to cover all of the basics. The image specs are pretty self explanatory, and the 2-way audio feature can help fend off invaders simply by letting them know that you are watching them.

Video doorbells also work great as security cameras as well, with the added benefit of watching over any deliveries that may come when you are gone. The 2-way audio features in these also work just like they do for cameras, serving as a warning if you spot someone staking out your home.

Full coverage

The classic security alarm system is still one of the easier ways to secure your home, and advancements in smart home technology gives you the best of both worlds. Connected alarm systems can work in two different ways, with professional monitoring that usually requires a subscription, or a DIY system that simply notifies you of activity in your home.

Obviously, professional monitoring is a solid choice as an agent monitoring your home can alert your local police if a door or window is opened, but if you want to save a little dough, the DIY method is also worthwhile. The DIY approach usually comes in packages that include a hub, keypad, motion sensors, and contact sensors that attach directly to your doors and windows, but you can also find some of these components separately, leveraging smart home platforms like HomeKit to keep you abreast of your home's situation.

Watered down

One of the best things about modern smart home accessories is that most also apply to the great outdoors. All of the stuff that we have mentioned, lighting, plugs, and cameras, all have outdoor options, keeping the areas around your home safe and secure.

However, there are a few outdoor specific accessories that can take things to the next level. Smart sprinkler systems keep our lawns well hydrated, and just like with lighting, they can be set up via schedules to make your home look like it is just another day.

Live in an area where running the sprinklers this time of year looks a little odd? Use them as a deterrent! If you get the alert that someone is lurking around your home then turn your sprinklers on! We doubt that they would want to stick around after taking a cold shower.

Gates and fences

Own a home with a gate guarding your driveway? There's an app, and accessory for that as well! Smart gate openers provide that extra little peace of mind just like with garage door openers, allowing you to close it from afar if needed. The same also goes with notifications, keeping you in the know if someone manages to open your gate.

Even your good ole' privacy fence can get in the smart home fun, with connected padlocks. These smart locks take on the form of the traditional padlock, but come with the added benefits of notifications, guest access, and auto-locking. Use these locks to let your landscaper in to keep your grass nice and tidy, a tell-tale sign that someone is on vacation.

Smoke detection

Most of the stuff that we have covered involves keeping your home safe from intruders, but there are also several ways to protect your home from other potential disasters. Smart smoke detectors monitor your home at all times, regardless of if you are home or away, and they can notify you the instant that a fire starts.

This gives you the ability to call your local fire department immediately, potentially limiting the damage and hassles. Most smart smoke detectors also monitor for carbon monoxide as well, giving you the heads up before you walk into a dangerous situation.

Flood insurance

You can also take this proactive approach for situations involving water. Smart leak sensors come in both wired and wireless varieties, both of whice are extremely easy to install. Just set one of these near or under your sinks, water heater, and tubs and you are ready to go. Once the sensor or attached leads becomes wet, it will send a notification to your phone alerting you of the situation, opening a small window for you to make arrangements from afar.

Since a leak can become a flood in a matter of minutes, a leak sensor works best with connected water shut-off valves. Although these valves will more than likely require a call to a plumber for installation, they are one of the best investments you can make.

These valves install directly on your home's incoming water supply lines, providing owners with controls that can turn on and off their water flow from the comforts of a phone. Some valves monitor water usage, detecting leaks automatically, but others can work together with leak sensors to shut things down if water sets one off.

What are some of your home protection tips?

Have a clever use of smart home technology to secure your home? Have a particular accessory that you feel works the best? Let us know in the comments below!

If you want the complete package when it comes to security cameras, then the Arlo Pro is what you want. However, if you just want to have some security cameras around your house, and prefer to have a wider viewing angle but miss out on a few features for less price, then Circle 2 should be good enough.

Let's break it down

Out of these two security cameras, we think the Arlo Pro is the better option overall. The Arlo Pro is wireless by default, but it can be powered by a rechargeable battery or just with standard mini-USB. It even has the option to be charged up via solar energy, so you can just install the solar panel and it'll always be charged as long as there is sun outside.

If you have the Arlo Pro Base, then it can be used for local storage of your camera recordings in addition to the cloud storage, which keeps footage from the past 7 days. The Base Station is also required to activate the 100+ decibel siren, which can remotely scare off intruders before they commit any crime. This feature alone makes the Arlo Pro worth a purchase.

Unfortunately, the Arlo Pro does not let users set up motion zones and there isn't person detection, so this is where the Circle 2 shines. With the Circle 2, you can highlight certain areas of the house, such as the front door or gates, and it will alert you whenever there is motion in those zones. The person detection helps the camera distinguish between people and pets, and the Circle 2 is pretty good about this.

The Circle 2 also has a wider range when it comes to viewing angles, and you can have an unlimited number of cameras, whereas the Arlo Pro has a limit of 15 per Base Station. However, the more cameras you have with the Circle 2, the more it may affect your video quality, since it's all done over Wi-Fi, with no option for local storage.

Both the Arlo Pro and Circle 2 can work without paying extra for a subscription. You'll have video recording and free cloud storage, though the Arlo Pro keeps 7 days worth of recording whereas the Circle 2 only keeps the last 24 hours. However, you get more features with their subscription plans, but Arlo Pro has a flat rate, while the Circle 2 sub charges per camera. This is also worth thinking about if you want to set up a bunch of cameras in your household.

Amazon Alexa works with both Arlo Pro and Circle 2, though the latter has wider compatibility. The Arlo Pro only works with Echo Show right now, whereas Circle 2 works with any Echo device you have. Google Assistant support is also coming to Circle 2, leaving Arlo Pro out in the cold.

After going through all of the options, we still prefer the Arlo Pro over the Circle 2. It has local storage with the Base Station, remote siren support to ward off intruders, fast security alerts, supports solar-powered charging, keeps more footage in the free cloud storage, and has a flat rate for the subscription if you choose to go that route.

Both cameras offer great solutions for keeping an eye on your castle. While the Nest Cam has several different options to choose from, the Circle 2 is a much better all-in-one package.

What's the same

Both the Circle Cam 2 from Logitech and the Nest Cam from Nest and Google (Google purchased Nest a few years ago) do essentially the same thing: they monitor your home to watch for predators or to make sure those in the house are safe. They each have quite a few similar features that make them compelling options for anyone looking to add some home security.

To have a successful home monitoring system, you need a camera or cameras that can mount indoors or outdoors; they need to be able to see a large area with a high-quality image; they need to be able to store footage to review later. Thankfully, both of these cameras do all of those things well. Each of them is able to be installed anywhere inside or outside of your home, the cameras record in 1080p to ensure that you always have a clear image, and both companies offer storage options for the footage. If that's all you need, either of these products is a win.

What's different

While the service they provide may be the same, each company has a different way of going about it.

Logitech went with an all-in-one approach. The Circle Cam 2 is a single camera that's weatherproof so it can be mounted inside or out — you can even mount it on a window with the optional window mount accessory. This allows for limitless flexibility, so you don't have to worry about getting the right camera for the right place in your home. It also included compatibility with Alexa, Siri, and Google Assistant so no matter how you control your smart home, your Circle Cam will work.

Google, on the other hand, offers four different Nest cameras: the Nest Indoor, Nest Indoor IQ, Nest Outdoor, and Nest Outdoor IQ. While options are great, sometimes having too many can be difficult. If you go with Nest, you have to make sure you look at exactly what your needs are and make sure you get the exact camera setup you need. Because it's owned by Google, Nest will only work with Google Assistant and while the Indoor IQ camera has Google Assistant integrated directly into the camera, not being able to connect to Siri or Alexa may be a dealbreaker for some.

Having a clear image is important for security cameras but so is how much you can see. The Field of View (FOV) is the term for how much the camera can see in through the lens and here Logitech has done a little better. It offers a 180-degree FOV whereas Nest only has 130 degrees on its (base model) indoor camera. Being able to capture more things in one image can make quite a difference in home security.

Storage is gonna cost you

Both have storage options but again, go about it in different ways. Logitech offers 24 hours of video storage for free with 14-day and 31-day options available for a subscription. The 31-day subscription option also allows you to set person detection and Motion Zones in your house to alert you when movement happens inside those zones.

The only free storage option from Nest is three hours of motion snapshots and audio, so no video storage for free. Thankfully, each of its subscription options includes all of the premium features. You don't need the highest tier to get any extra features — the only difference is storage length. You can choose between 5-, 10-, and 30-day options.

Anything else?

There are a couple more features worth noting. The Circle Cam 2 has an available wireless option if you wanted to go portable. The wireless has a 130-degree FOV and motion based fixed length recording of 10, 30, and 60. HomeKit does not yet support power saving mode for the Circle Cam 2 but Logitech and Apple are working on a fix. Also, battery life is rated from "a few days to as long as three months" depending on usage.

The Nest Cam offers a feature called Supersight which will zoom in and track a person if any motion is detected within an Activity Zone, which we think is handy.

Verdict

For me, the clear winner is the Logitech Circle Cam 2. It offers an all-in-one package that is cheaper than the Nest with free 24-hour video storage. With a larger FOV and the ability to work with whichever automation system I want, it's hard to turn away from it. If you're all in on Google Assistant and you know exactly what camera you need for your home then Nest is a great option for you. For everyone else, Logitech is the better buy.

Image via Arlo

What you need to know

• Numerous reports suggest that Arlo's Audio Doorbell does not work with iOS 13.
• Arlo community forums are awash with complaints that after upgrading, the Audio Doorbell would no longer call their smartphone when someone came to their door.
• Arlo says it is aware of the problem and is working on a fix.

A report via TechRadar has revealed that the Arlo Audio Doorbell is not compatible with iOS 13. According to the report:

Users in Arlo's forums claim to have tried resetting the Arlo base station with no success. Arlo has told TechRadar that it is aware of the problem and is currently working on a fix, in a statement to the outlet they said:

SIP is the tech behind Wi-Fi calling, which allows users to make and receive voice/video calls over the internet without cellular service.

The report does seem to suggest that some Android users have also reported experiencing issues, however as Arlo has directly responded to the problem and believes iOS 13 to be the cause, it doesn't seem that these are related. Arlo's reference to "expedited approval" is the closest we have to a timeline on a fix for the issue. If you are an Arlo Audio Doorbell user, you might want to hold off on upgrading to iOS 13 if you're yet to do so.

The news comes in wake of Arlo announcing that its Ultra security camera is now compatible with HomeKit.

Video doorbells are one of the staples of the smart home, thanks to their ability to keep an eye on your packages and your home in a compact, easy to install package. Each doorbell has its own unique features and pricing structures, although they all offer some essential features. These features include 2-way communication for speaking to those at your door, notifications, and of course, video recording, and they deliver all of this from the comforts of an app.

The RemoBell S Video Doorbell is an affordable alternative to the established players on the market, offering all of the connected doorbell basics with a low up-front cost, and no subscriptions. We recently set up RemoBell's offering, and we were happy to see that it provides everything as advertised, making it one to look for if you are shopping around for connected video doorbells.

• Low cost
• Easy setup in app
• Motion zone settings
• No subscription required
• Included installation tools

• Additional chime not included
• No motion zone preview
• Hardwired only
• Does not support HomeKit
• Night vision a little lacking

essentials and more

RemoBell S Video Doorbell: The features

The RemoBell S Video Doorbell features a mostly all-black design, that is similar in shape to the classic rectangular doorbell. Despite this similarity in shape, this doorbell is significantly larger than its "dumb" counterparts, and will certainly stand out to visitors as being something that is not ordinary. On the face of the device is a circular camera positioned at the top, a small microphone that enables 2-way communication, and a large silver push button with an LED ring surrounding it. During normal operation, the LED ring shines blue, giving guests a clear indication as to where the actual doorbell is, which is especially helpful at night. Even though the device is mostly made of plastic materials, the RemoBell S is weather-resistant, and is able to withstand temperatures ranging from -4 degrees all the way to 122 degrees, allowing it to perform year-round in most climates.

Overall Image quality from the RemoBell S is clean and crisp, providing an HD video feed of your front door with a resolution of 1536 x 1536. While the camera is not 4K and does not support extras such as HDR, the RemoBell S is certainly good enough for most applications, as it is mainly designed to provide images of people up close. There are 3 quality settings in the app and is set to average by default, but exact specifics surrounding the resolution of each setting are not available. The camera features a 180-degree field of view, providing a wide image that is capable of covering more than just the area directly in front of your door, and in some cases, it can show an entire porch. By default, this 180-degree view results in a circular shaped video feed, which is a little odd, but a setting to revert to a more traditional video feed view is available. Infrared illumination is also included for night vision, and the app has options to adjust "brightness regions" to help in instances where the doorbell's view may be hard to see in bright areas.

In addition to notifying you of visitors who have pressed the doorbell button, the RemoBell S can send notifications for motion events in general, which is a nice overall security feature. However, in our testing, the notifications that we received did not include a preview thumbnail of either type of event, forcing users to open the app to see who or what is at the door. Upon tapping on a notification, you are immediately sent to a live view, with options to answer or ignore the event. Answering during the live view will present an additional talk button to speak to your visitors, as well as an end button, which is simple, yet effective. Audio quality was adequate on both ends, which was good enough to be able to decipher what each party was saying, but we did notice some occasional hiccups in the form of robot-like sounds every once in a while.

low price, no subscription

RemoBell S Video Doorbell: What I like

For the most part, the RemoBell S was easy to install, coming in at less than a half an hour in our case, thanks to its easy to follow instructions and its included materials. Inside of the box was more than just the device itself, including niceties such as a handy screwdriver, drill bit, optional angle wedges, mounting screws, and wire nuts, which should cover almost all installation scenarios. The longest portion of the install was wiring up our existing door chime, which while easy, was slightly annoying as it requires using wire nuts and not a jumper set up like other video doorbells. Pairing the doorbell to the RemoBell app was also a fast and easy process, which involves creating an account and adding the doorbell to your home Wi-Fi network.

The RemoBell app itself has a simple design, stuffing features and settings in a menu that is unobtrusive to the camera view. Navigating the app was as easy as it was fluid, and responsive, enabling us to jump in and out of a live camera feed, and changing settings occurs pretty much instantly. In the settings menu, additional features such as setting motion zones are available. Motion zones are one of those features that are typically hidden behind a subscription fee, but we are happy to report that this is not the case with the RemoBell S. Setting a zone is easy, with the camera's view being divided into sections, each of which turns on and off with just a tap. Our only issue with this process is that the app does not display your camera's live view when setting a zone, which makes toggling a section a guessing game of sorts, that will take some trial and error.

The biggest selling point for the RemoBell S is, of course, its free 3-day cloud storage, which is available without entering credit card information. Simply installing and registering the doorbell is enough, with no prompts to enable the feature as it is on by default. The included cloud storage allows you to download and share recordings, enabling you to save videos before deletion over the free-rolling 3-day period. There are additional plans available, such as a 30-day rolling storage option starting at $3 a month or $30 a year, but this is entirely optional, and during our testing, we never even saw a mention of this in the app, which was a pleasant surprise as we were expecting to see annoying banners or prompts. In fact, in its current form, most users will never even know that additional options are available, which is certainly nice to see.

HomeKit not included

RemoBell S Video Doorbell: What I don't like

Even though it seems to be par for the course when it comes to doorbells, it is still a little disappointing to see that the RemoBell S Video Doorbell does not support Apple's HomeKit or Siri. This means that all interactions with the doorbell take place either within Remo's app, or through integration with other platforms, such as Amazon's Alexa, Google Assistant, or IFTTT. The Remo app is certainly enough to fulfill most needs, but we did notice that the app did not support full-screen mode on our iPad.

Over on the hardware side of things, we found the RemoBell S to be a little bulky and could use some additional color options to better hide its smart features and to blend in with its surroundings. As mentioned earlier, we would have also liked to have seen a jumper style wiring set up for existing door chimes. The included portion that attaches to your chime is simple in nature, but placement inside of the chime's housing may be a little tricky depending on available space, and a simple jumper design could eliminate this entirely. The only other issue that we saw was that night vision was not quite as good as competitors, limiting our view of things in the dark, and is something that may require additional lighting outside to help clear things up.

The Bottom Line

RemoBell S Video Doorbell

The RemoBell S Video Doorbell is an easy to set up option that provides all of the essentials without a high price or subscription. This doorbell offers HD quality video, night vision, 2-way audio, motion zones, and free cloud storage out of the box, making it easy to recommend for those that want the most bang for their buck. Even with its low price point, the RemoBell S includes extras such as the tools needed for installation, and its app is easy to use and doesn't nag you to upgrade to a paid storage plan. Motion alerts and doorbell notifications are sent within seconds of the event, and the live view provides a clear view of who is at your door enabling security and convenience. While it may not have the best video quality or all of the features that some of its competitors offer, the RemoBell S is definitely a good option for most, and is certainly worth considering thanks to its low price and lack of subscription.

Smart video doorbells have gone mainstream over the course of the last few years, becoming the poster child of the connected home. These doorbells offer the convenience of being able to see and speak to whoever is at your door through your phone, when either the doorbell button is pressed or when motion is sensed. Security is also a large part of the appeal of connected doorbells, with package theft becoming all too common, allowing owners to fight back when it comes to their precious deliveries.

• Low Price
• Easy to install
• Customizable quick responses
• Included chime
• Motion zones
• No subscription required

• Does not support HomeKit
• No battery backup
• Only 1 color available
• Requires existing doorbell wiring
• App not optimized for iPad

above and beyond

Eufy Video Doorbell: The features

The Eufy Video Doorbell features a compact, all-black, design, somewhat resembling the shape of a traditional doorbell. A large circular button illuminated by a ring of light sits toward the bottom of the unit, which makes it easy for guests to identify that it is in fact, a doorbell. The camera portion of the doorbell sits near the top of the device and the lens is clearly visible, with Eufy making no attempts to hide the fact that someone is watching your every move toward the front door. Since the doorbell was made for outdoor placement, it was designed with weather resistance in mind, allowing it to withstand temperatures ranging from -4 all the way up to 122 degrees Fahrenheit, and has an IP65 weatherproof rating.

Image quality from the built-in camera is clear, and visitors are easily identifiable thanks to its native 2K resolution (2560 x 1920) and 4:3 aspect ratio. The camera also supports HDR and infrared illumination, which helps to ensure that your front door area is visible in all parts of the day. In testing, toggling HDR on instantly cleared up an issue that I saw after the initial installation with part of our view due to a high level of brightness. Using the HDR option did produce instances where an "outline" was visible around people or objects, due to the varying levels of brightness, but it is a small price to pay to have video in a somewhat difficult spot. Another image setting is available for distortion correction, which removes some of the fish-eye view that doorbell cameras are notorious for. In our case, this setting removed a couple of spots near the corner of the camera view that you could clearly see the camera housing in, making the view much cleaner.

When a motion event occurs, either just from someone passing by or when someone rings the doorbell, notifications were sent almost instantly. Rich notifications are sent from the iOS App, with a thumbnail being provided along with the type of alert. In most cases, the Eufy Security App attempts to crop the thumbnail image in the notification so that only the face of the person at your door is shown, but for whatever reason, this was not always the case. Tapping on an alert brings you immediately to the live camera view, with it loading in just a second or two, which was quite impressive. By default, the microphone option is inactive during the live view, requiring a tap on the associated icon to start the conversation. Audio coming from the doorbell's speaker was loud and clear, as well as with the audio being routed from the microphone outdoors to the App.

subscription free

Eufy Video Doorbell: What I like

The Eufy Video Doorbell was incredibly simple to install, thanks in part to clearly labeled packaging inside the box that referred to specific steps in the included instruction manual. The entire installation took me around 20 minutes, but I could easily see this taking half the time if installing it on a wood surface where the only tool needed is a screwdriver. Pairing the doorbell to the Eufy Security iOS App was also surprisingly fast and easy, just requiring creating an account and connecting it to Wi-Fi.

I was also pleasantly surprised to see a plug-in chime unit included with the video doorbell, which are optional purchases with other products on the market. Just like with pairing the doorbell, the chime synced quickly after plugging it in. Speaking of audio, I really enjoyed the quick response feature that is available when viewing your doorbells video feed. This feature allows you to "talk" to whoever is at your door using 3 preset responses, such as "leave it at the door" or "we will be right there" with just a tap. The most interesting part of this is that you can record up to 3 additional quick responses within the Eufy Security App. I can certainly imagine some "creative" uses for this feature, and I will admit, I have already set up some that I can use with close friends or family.

Of course, the most compelling feature is that the Eufy Video Doorbell does not require a subscription, something that has unfortunately become synonymous with this type of device. In fact, there are no subscription options at all, as video events are stored on the doorbell's 4gb of built-in memory, and sent securely to the accompanying App when you are ready to view. Eufy even managed to include customizable motion zones and AI-based recognition technology that can determine who or what passed by the camera. This prevents nuisance notifications from being sent for things such as cars or pets, all included for free.

hey Siri, where are you?

Eufy Video Doorbell: What I don't like

Even though Eufy was part of the announcement for Apple's upcoming HomeKit Secure Video feature, this video doorbell does not support HomeKit or Siri in any fashion. This means that all interactions with the doorbell must go through the Eufy Security App, and it is not available to use with HomeKit's powerful automation features. While the Eufy Security App is easy to navigate and offers a plethora of features, it was not made for iPad, forcing users to use a blown-up iPhone view which limits video and the user interface to a much smaller size and just feels all sorts of wrong. Amazon's Alexa and the Google Assistant are compatible, with voice commands summoning a live view of the doorbell's camera on eligible devices which offers some consolation, but HomeKit support is sorely missed.

On the hardware side of things, the eufy Security doorbell only comes in one color, black. This is understandable, as it is neutral and will work with most outdoor decor, but I would have liked to have seen a few more color choices. To install the doorbell, existing doorbell wiring must be available as eufy's offering does not have an internal battery, which could limit its potential audience. I also did not like having to place a jumper on my existing doorbell chime as it forces all of the doorbell's sounds to come directly from the camera and the included chime. Finally, I would have liked to have seen drill bits included for installation on surfaces other than wood. Some of eufy's competitors offer these inside the box, ensuring you have everything you need.

The Bottom line

Eufy Video Doorbell

The Eufy Video Doorbell is an easy to install solution that offers all of the same features that the best doorbells on the market provide, without the high price and subscription. This doorbell offers high definition 2K video, HDR, facial recognition technology, two-way audio, and includes a chime that works anywhere around the home ensuring that you never miss a visitor. Alerts are sent almost instantly to connected devices when a motion event occurs, and the live view is fast and responsive, making it visible within a matter of seconds. Lack of HomeKit support aside, the Eufy Video Doorbell is without a doubt one of the best options around and is easy to recommend to anyone looking for high-quality features with no strings attached.

Woot is offering the Zmodo Pivot Cloud Security Camera System for just $69.99 as one of its daily deals. It has a list price of $150, so you're saving over half, and it actually sells for upwards of $180 at Amazon on the regular. Shipping is free for Amazon Prime members and, with Amazon Prime Day around the corner, you're probably going to want to make sure you have Prime account anyway.

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The Pivot Cloud features a rotating 350-degree camera that can capture 1080p video from almost any angle. When motion is detected, the camera automatically records clips that are saved for free in the cloud for 12 hours so you can review what went on. There are paid plans to save videos for longer, too. You can view a livestream from the camera at any point. It has two-way audio so you can communicate via the camera using your phone — whether there's something untoward going on back home or you just want to say hi to your furry friend. The included door and window sensors can be set up to give you instant alerts if they are opened and it also has built-in sensors for tracking your home's temperature and humidity.

You may already be set up with a bunch of smart home tech, but have you spared a thought for how your home's security fits into that system? Maybe you have, or maybe you need to check out this one-day sale on security and surveillance systems at Amazon. It features indoor and outdoor cameras from just $20 — a small price to pay for some extra peace of mind for your home.

The most affordable option in the sale is the Zmodo Mini Wi-Fi Camera. It's down to a new all-time low price at $19.99 from an average price of over $30. The indoor cam gives you a 720p HD live feed of whichever room you place it in that you can view from your phone or screen-equipped Alexa device at any time. Zmodo is also offering a 1080p HD version with a 180-degree wide angle lens in the sale for just $55.

TP-Link's 1080p Kasa Cam works both indoors and outdoors and is around $30 below its average price right now. With Alexa and Google Assistant support, two-way audio, a siren function, smart notifications, and two days of free cloud storage for your recordings, it's a great compliment to your existing smart home setup.

If you need to cover a larger property, particularly a retail or office location, the sale has some options for you with professional-level systems from featuring 4 to 32 cameras giving you complete coverage. Be sure to check out the whole sale before prices rise tonight.

Both security cameras provide a powerful, useful experience. It's the little things that distinguish one from the other and that'll make the difference for you.

The differences

When it comes to price, service plans, and storage, these products are surprisingly similar. Elsewhere, each has individual strengths (and weaknesses).

Neither choice is objectively better over the other. Both cameras are terrific in what they do. The Circle 2 looks like a camera and has an ultra-wide angle lens to prove it. Thanks to its built-in swivel, you can rotate and tilt the camera for the best 180-degree view. Logitech's product is also the one that offers two-way communication without charging a monthly membership fee.

Circle 2 is also the one easiest to customize. While it's primarily for indoor use, you can purchase a window or plug mount and also a weatherproof extension for outdoor use. That way, you can use it just about anywhere. The Canary All-In-One would get all wet, by contrast. The Logitech product is also available in a corded or wireless model and is the one with more integrations and voice control options.

Canary's flagship product, on the other hand, has better video quality (by default the Circle 2 records at 720p, not 1080p) and superior extra features. For example, the Canary offers a built-in emergency alarm you can activate remotely to alert the authorities to distress. Canary is also distinct for having the ability to monitor air quality, temperature, and humidity in your home and alert you when there's a problem.

You can add extra features to both cameras through premium memberships. Circle Safe is available in a basic and premium package. The former gives you 14 days of camera footage, person detection, and motion zones, while the latter includes 31 days of footage plus the other features. Logitech charges as little as $1.15 per month, depending on the number of cameras you own.

For Canary, there's one premium package that runs $10 per month or $100 per year. For this, you get 30 days worth of video recordings, two-way communication, a safety button to alert authorities in the event of an emergency, and incident support. Discounts per device are available when you have multiple cameras on an account.

So the choice here comes down to which features you want. If you plan on using your security camera to talk to others in your home, you might want to select the Circle 2 since this feature doesn't require the purchase of a premium package. Otherwise, there's not much different about either package except that Logitech offers two membership levels.

Comparing these two cameras largely comes down to purpose. If you want an extra set of eyes to make sure your pets haven't eaten the sofa or your children haven't overthrown the government, the Omna 180 will get the job done. However, if you want an actual security measure that can be positioned wherever you need it to protect, the Circle 2 runs rings around the competition.

One can see your living room, one can see everything

In some ways, these cameras are very similar. They have identical maximum video resolution and a frame rate at 1080p (the Circle 2 does have a lower resolution rate set as default, but this is easily altered in the app). Both cameras have built-in microphones and speakers for two-way communication. Both Logitech and D-Link have made a big deal about their 180-degree wide-angle lens, as many other models only have a range of 120 degrees. This means both cameras are able to cover most of a room or a large portion of a garden depending on where they are placed. However, this field of vision does come at the cost of some picture distortion in the center of the recordings. Another selling point they both want to cash in on is the lack of effort needed to set them up. Not including your preferred mount for the Circle 2, either camera can be activated using an app in minutes.

The Omna has minutely better infrared, claiming night vision up to 16 feet, against the Circle 2's oh-so-lowly 15 feet. The Circle 2's LED ring, which uses different colors to indicate different states of operation, can be turned off if required. The Omna displays a green light when active and two red lights when night vision is being used. These LEDs cannot be turned off, which could be a downside if you wished to disguise its presence from intruders.

Talking of intruders, let's discuss motion detection. Both have it, but it's a bit more interesting from the Circle 2's point of view. Its smart technology includes machine-learning Person Detection, customizable Smart Alerts, motion zones, and a Day Brief that gives you a time-lapse video of all motion detected. Unfortunately, most of its more impressive features are only available if you subscribe to the Circle Safe Premium package, which will also entitle you to 31 days of cloud storage instead of a mere 24 hours. If you use the free or basic subscriptions (basic increases 24 hours to 14 days), you'll still be well covered, but the Day Brief and Smart Alerts are simplified and less customizable.

Premium Subscription also allows you to use geofencing to stop notifications when you're at home, something the Omna is unable to match. Neither the Omna nor HomeKit support geofencing, which hinders you from creating some fun integrations such as only recording when you've left the house. Unfortunately, you cannot specify times for the Omna's motion detection to turn on aside from either always on or only on after sunset. Workarounds could be possible using additional devices, but not with the camera alone.

HomeKit, for example, can use motion detection to trigger other interactions like lights or smart plugs. It can also be modified for sensitivity, a re-trigger delay can be added, and motion zones can be specified. However, they can only be selected from a grid layout of the feed, whereas for the Circle 2, you can specify a custom shape and location for your motion zones to match the exact area you want to monitor. A few users have had issues connecting the Circle 2 to HomeKit, so if your setup is very reliant on HomeKit integrations, you may find the Omna suits your personal needs the best.

The Circle 2 has a few additional specs that the Omna doesn't offer, like digital zoom, 360-dgree camera rotation, operating temperatures of -20 - 50 degrees Fahrenheit, and a choice between a wired or wire-free model. Accessories available also mean the Circle 2 can be mounted on any wall, ceiling, window, metal surface, plug socket, or anywhere else you may need it. The operating temperatures and weatherproofing mean it can be used indoors or outdoors, and this versatility really gives it an edge over the not-at-all-weatherproof Omna.

The Omna does well sitting on a shelf observing a room, as long as no objects are too close to damage its field of vision. It's about as versatile as a paperweight, with a chunky size and design that make it hard to mistake for anything other than a camera. This could be thought of as a good deterrence until you consider how the recordings are stored.

The camera only records when it senses movement, taking 20-second clips paced between 30 seconds to 5 minutes based on your preferences. These are saved onto an SD card, and while you can view the clips in your app, you can't download the footage onto your device from the app alone. Some customers like the lack of cloud storage since it makes footage harder to hack, but if the device is damaged or stolen there's no way to recover the recordings.

The Circle 2's smaller shape and choice of mounts allow it to be located out of easy reach, and its cloud storage means even if it's damaged in a break-in, the footage is safe. Unlimited downloads and streaming are available with all Circle Safe subscriptions, and as mentioned earlier, the length of time your footage is stored will depend on your package. The Circle 2 uses SSL to protect your data. There's also a privacy mode that continues to live stream, but won't record or send any notifications. The minimalist and sleek design also makes it easy to blend to any background in style.

The Omna has come to this battle with a couple of major disadvantages. The lack of cloud storage takes away its usefulness as a security feature. If an intruder breaks or walks off with the camera, you might as well have had a ceramic vase in its place. The Circle 2 has your back even if it's taken out of action. The accessories and wire-free alternative give you so much freedom. Need one outside? There's a weatherproof extension cable. Does the top of your fridge offer a great vantage point? There's a magnetic mount too.

Of course, as with the other fun bits of its technology, these additional mounts come at an additional cost, which is the biggest drawback of the Circle 2. Buying the camera alone won't unlock its full capability. The promised customizable Smart Alerts are only yours if you pay for a monthly or annual Circle Safe Premium Subscription. This offers longer cloud storage, but it will set you back. For one camera it's $10 a month or $100 a year. If you've decided to attach cameras to all your windows, there's a Home Plan package for up to five cameras at $18 a month or $180 a year, so you'll be cutting the cost per camera.

Really, it is all about your personal needs. If you just want to watch what your pets get up to when you're not around, the D-Link Omna 180 is a great option. If you're willing to invest in a security measure that will give you eyes wherever you need them to be, the Circle 2 is the better choice by far.

If you're looking for a home security solution, you can't get much better than the Logitech Circle 2, thanks in part to some amazing features you get if you purchase a Premium subscription, including Person Detection. Person Detection does exactly what it says: it alerts you when it sees a human. Its machine learning algorithm is even able to tell the difference between a pet and a person, so you shouldn't get a pop-up every time your dog decides it's party time. This feature works best when the camera is not obscured, is upright, and placed at a human height and in an area with good lighting (it's unfortunately not as accurate when using Night Vision). Here's how to set it all up!

• Amazon Circle 2 Wired Camera ($150)
• App Store: Logi Circle App (Free)
• Logitech: Circle Safe Premium ($10+/mo)

How to enable Person Detection

In order to use this guide, you will need a Logitech Circle 2, the Logi Circle app and a subscription to Circle Safe Premium.

1. Open up the Logi Circle app.
2. Find and tap the settings menu in the top left-hand corner of the home screen.
3. If you have more than one camera, find the one you would like to update and tap and hold Event Alerts next to its name. Alternatively, you could select More Settings (also next to its name) and choose the Smart Alerts option.

4. If the Smart Alerts toggle is not enabled, you will need to enable it now.
5. Select Alert Filters.

6. Here you will see Motion Zones and Detection. You will need at least one Motion Zone to use Person Detection. These can be set via the web app.
7. Person Detection can be enabled under Detection.

Hurrah! You will now be informed if unidentified human beings are spotted in your Motion Zones. With this feature enabled, activity bubbles with a person icon and the time they were detected will appear in your Circle mobile and web apps.

Our top equipment picks

Person Detection will be slightly more effective with the wider field of vision and recording time. However, the wire-free camera is still an excellent choice for your security needs. Logitech even offer bundles like their combo pack of two wired and one wire-free model.

Logi Circle App (Free from the App Store)

Connecting to your circle is fast and simple

Logitech Circle Safe Premium ($10+ at Logitech)

Open up your Circle 2's potential with a premium subscription.

While both mounts are good options to have in your home security system, we prefer the flexibility of the Magnetic Mount. Plus, it can literally be attached anywhere on the house since it comes with a metal plate, so you aren't limited to just magnetic surfaces.

The breakdown

While the Window Mount allows you to see more of what's going on outside from the inside of your home, the view really depends on where your windows are placed. Since it sticks to the window itself, you're not going to be able to adjust the angle, unless there's another window that gives you a better view. If there isn't a good window to place it in, then the Window Mount is kind of useless for the situation. I mean, who wants to do work on the house just to get the right position for a camera?

Out of these two options, the Magnetic Mount is definitely the better choice. Even though it's magnetic, Logitech provides customers with a metal plate that attaches anywhere with super strong, semi-permanent adhesive, so it can go on any surface regardless. And if you already have a good spot on a magnetic surface (i.e. rain gutters, metal door frames or posts, even light fixtures), then just attach the magnetic base and put it where you want — it won't budge! Just push the camera around the base until you find the perfect viewing angle, and you're good to go with no unsightly mess.

However, you should be aware that if you decide to use the metal plate, you need to firmly decide where it'll go, since the plate is very difficult to remove with the strong adhesive. At the least, you know it won't be going anywhere.

Another big advantage with the Magnetic Mount is that if you opted for the Wire-Free version of the Circle 2, the Magnetic Mount doesn't need to be plugged in to use, allowing you to remain untethered. The Window Mount, on the other hand, needs that plug, which makes having a wire-free version of a camera kind of useless. The Magnetic Mount can also be used both indoors and outdoors, whereas the Window Mount is only for indoor use behind a window.

The August Smart Lock Pro is one of the best smart locks you can buy for your home. It has some of the best features you would want in a smart lock and it works with the locks you already have. You can install it to the back of your locks without having to remove the front of them and it connects over your Wi-Fi so you can access it from anywhere. For those times when you're having a guest over or someone else is coming by the house, you can also grant guest access to visitors without having to reset the lock every time.

The smartest part of the whole lock is the fact that you can control it without having to touch it. Thanks to that Wi-Fi connectivity, you can use Alexa to have full control. Once connected to Alexa via a Connect Wi-Fi Bridge (or another smart home hub) you too can have your own personal Jarvis (well, almost).

August makes it extremely easy to connect your lock to Alexa. Once you have installed your lock, plug in your Connect Wi-Fi Bridge, open the Alexa app, and enable the August Smart Home skill. In an added bit of awesomeness, you can also have your August Doorbell Cam sync up to Alexa if you have one.

While the August Smart Lock Pro is extremely capable in its own right, it can't connect to Wi-Fi on its own. In order to unleash its full potential, it needs to be connected to a Smart Hub. A Smart Hub is essentially the brain that connects all the smart gadgets in your home together and allows them to talk to your smartphone and to each other. Without this Hub, Wi-Fi connectivity between connected devices would not work.

Thankfully August has you covered. With its Connect Wi-Fi Bridge, you can quickly and easily get everything up and running and connected to Alexa. It costs an extra $70, but you'll get a lot of added features, so it's definitely worth the price.