Aqara G410 Doorbell Hub: Beyond Video, But Not Waterproof
▼ Summary
– The Aqara G410 is a video doorbell with a large, chunky design powered by six AA batteries, though it can also be hardwired to existing doorbell wiring.
– It features significant upgrades over its predecessor, including 2K video resolution, mmWave radar detection for accurate alerts, dual-band Wi-Fi, and a wider 175-degree field of view.
– The device has limited IPX3 weather resistance, requiring installation in an enclosed or semi-enclosed porch to protect it from the elements.
– It includes a loud indoor chime that doubles as a Matter-certified smart home hub, supporting local video storage via MicroSD card or cloud storage with a subscription service.
– While it offers strong performance and smart home integration, its bulky design and lack of full waterproofing make it less suitable for all homes compared to sleeker competitors.
The Aqara G410 Doorbell Camera Hub delivers a significant upgrade over its predecessor with enhanced 2K video resolution, mmWave radar detection, and dual-band Wi-Fi connectivity, positioning it as a versatile smart home hub. This device integrates seamlessly with major platforms like Apple HomeKit, Google Home, and Amazon Alexa, offering both local and cloud storage options. However, its bulky design and limited IPX3 weather resistance mean it requires sheltered installation, which may not suit all homes.
Aqara’s latest model replaces the earlier G4, maintaining a similar large form factor primarily due to its reliance on six AA batteries for power, though hardwiring to existing doorbell systems remains an option. The video quality jumps from 1080p to a sharper 2K (2048 x 1536 pixels), while the field of view expands to 175 degrees for better coverage. The inclusion of mmWave radar significantly cuts down on false alerts from passing traffic or pedestrians, a common frustration with many video doorbells. An integrated indoor chime doubles as a Matter-certified smart home hub, supporting Zigbee, Thread, and local MicroSD storage up to 512GB, eliminating mandatory subscription fees.
Setup is straightforward, with provided screws, wall plugs, and a strong adhesive strip for mounting. The chime hub must be placed within Wi-Fi range and audible range inside the home. Due to its modest weatherproofing, the G410 needs placement in an enclosed or semi-enclosed porch to avoid moisture damage. Aqara suggests installing the unit between 1.4 and 1.5 meters high for optimal visibility from its 4:3 aspect ratio camera.
Performance-wise, the G410 excels in daytime clarity and includes features like AI facial recognition, which can notify you when recognized residents leave or alert you to unknown “lingerers.” Night vision performs adequately but improves when paired with a triggered porch light. The two-way audio supports voice disguise options for privacy or amusement. It’s important to note that while the camera supports 2K resolution in the Aqara app, this drops to 1600×1200 when viewed through platforms like Apple HomeKit, slightly reducing image sharpness.
Subscription services through Aqara’s HomeGuardian plan start at £3.99 monthly, adding AI Video Search and summary features. Without a subscription, core functions remain accessible via local storage. Priced at £129, the G410 sits at the higher end of the video doorbell market but offers unique value as a comprehensive smart home controller.
Potential buyers should weigh its smart home integration and storage flexibility against its bulky build and weather limitations. For those seeking a compact, fully weatherproof design, alternatives like the Blink Video Doorbell or Ring Battery Doorbell Plus may be preferable. However, for users building an interconnected smart home ecosystem, the Aqara G410 presents a compelling, multifunctional solution.
(Source: TechRadar)
