Ubiquiti’s UniFi Security Camera Review | Features, Cost, Alternatives

 

 

In today’s high-tech world, security is more crucial than ever for apartment buildings. Investing in physical security measures, like enhancing the landscape, installing apartment security cameras, setting up alarms, and implementing staff procedures, helps keep unauthorized individuals out, safeguarding people and assets within a building.

UniFi, a well-known security system software, offers a comprehensive solution that includes everything from UniFi security cameras to the Ubiquiti USG UniFi Security Gateway. In this UniFi security camera review, we’ll delve deep into the features, benefits, and potential downsides of UniFi’s offerings, helping you decide if it’s the right fit for your security needs.

This post covers:

• What is UniFi?
• How does the UniFi security camera work?
• UniFi security camera review
• UniFi camera comparison
• Pros and cons of the Ubiquiti UniFi security camera
• Should you get a UniFi camera?
• What are the alternatives to UniFi?

 

What is UniFi?

UniFi security cameras are part of Ubiquiti’s UniFi Protect ecosystem — a network-based video surveillance system designed for centralized management and local video storage. Most deployments rely on on-site recording hardware rather than recurring cloud subscriptions.

UniFi is best suited for tech-forward properties comfortable managing network infrastructure, but it requires more setup than plug-and-play cloud camera systems.

 

 

How does the UniFi security camera work?

UniFi security cameras are installed at key locations around a property and connect to a local network for centralized control. They continuously capture video footage, which is either stored locally on devices or in the cloud for easy access and review. The UniFi Network Controller software allows real-time monitoring and management of all connected cameras from a single interface.

At its core, the UniFi system encompasses the three crucial components of physical security: surveillance, access control, and consistent performance testing.

 

How do you connect a UniFi camera?

To connect a Ubiquiti UniFi camera, you simply:

• Take one end of the Ethernet cable and connect it to the camera.
• Mount the camera to your preferred location.
• Insert a microSD card to enjoy greater memory space.
• Connect the other end of the Ethernet cable to a PoE adapter.

 

UniFi security camera review

Features

Here are several features you’ll find useful with the UniFi security camera:

• High-definition recording. UniFi cameras offer resolutions ranging from 1080p to 4K, depending on the model. Higher resolution helps property managers identify faces, license plates, and package theft incidents more clearly. However, 4K footage consumes significantly more storage, which can increase recorder and hard drive costs over time.
• Night vision. Infrared LEDs allow cameras to capture video in low-light and nighttime conditions. This is especially important for parking garages, building perimeters, and after-hours entry points. That said, IR performance depends heavily on placement and lighting conditions — reflective surfaces or poor positioning can reduce clarity.
• Motion detection.UniFi cameras can trigger recordings and send alerts when motion is detected. In apartment buildings, this can help teams quickly review incidents in high-traffic areas. However, poorly configured motion zones may lead to frequent false alerts, increasing alert fatigue for staff.
• Remote access and monitoring. Through the UniFi Protect platform, property teams can monitor multiple cameras from a single dashboard or mobile app. This centralization is useful for larger properties or multi-building portfolios. The tradeoff is that the system relies on properly configured network infrastructure and recording hardware.
• Integrated microphone. Some models include built-in audio recording, which can add context during incident reviews. In multifamily environments, this may assist with dispute resolution. However, audio recording may raise privacy considerations depending on local regulations and building policies.
• Secure communication. UniFi cameras use secure protocols to ensure that the data transmission between the camera and the network is encrypted and protected from unauthorized access.

 

Cost

The cost of UniFi security cameras varies depending on the model. For instance, the UniFi Camera G4 Professional is $449.00. This camera features 4K night-vision capabilities and is useful for long-range indoor and outdoor surveillance.

On the other hand, the UniFi Camera G3 Flex costs $79.00. This model is a Full HD (1080p) mini turret camera with infrared LEDs and versatile mounting options for indoor and outdoor installations.

 

UniFi camera comparison

UniFi offers several security camera models designed for different coverage needs, budgets, and installation environments. While many cameras share core features within the UniFi Protect ecosystem, resolution, mounting style, and ideal use case vary significantly. The comparison below highlights the key differences to help property managers choose the right model for their building.

Comparison of UniFi security camera models: 

Model	Best for	Resolution class	Indoor / outdoor fit	Notable tradeoff
UniFi G4 Pro	Long-range perimeter monitoring, parking lots, high-security areas	4K	Indoor & outdoor (weather-resistant)	Higher cost and larger footprint; may be overkill for hallways
UniFi G4 Dome	Entryways, lobbies, and common areas	4MP–5MP class	Indoor & outdoor	Fixed lens limits long-distance detail
UniFi G4 Bullet	Outdoor building perimeters and side entrances	4MP class	Primarily outdoor	Visible form factor may not suit aesthetic-sensitive interiors
UniFi G3 Flex	Budget-conscious installs, hallways, smaller indoor areas	1080p	Indoor & covered outdoor	Lower resolution compared to newer G4 models
UniFi AI Series (select models)	Advanced monitoring with smart detection features	4K class	Indoor & outdoor (model dependent)	Higher price point and requires compatible Protect hardware

 

Pros and cons

Pros

• High-quality video. The G4 Pro captures 4K video, ensuring high-resolution footage with great detail.
• Ease of installation. Many users find the camera easy to install, especially if Ethernet is already available in the installation area.
• Build quality. The camera is solidly built using high-quality polycarbonate. It also features 3x optical zoom and infrared LEDs.
• Functional design. The camera has a noticeable blue ring light at the front, which can help identify people by attracting their attention.
• IP67 rating. The camera is highly resistant to dust and water, making it suitable for outdoor use.
• Smart detection features. This camera can identify people or objects and notify the user, which is useful for security monitoring.

 

Cons

• Cost. At around $449, the G4 Pro is relatively expensive, which might be a significant factor for those on a tight budget.
• Storage needs. High-resolution recording at 4K can quickly fill up storage space, necessitating either more storage capacity or a compromise on video quality or recording duration.
• Limited to PoE. The camera requires a Power over Ethernet (PoE) connection. Moreover, this connection type might mean users need additional setup or equipment if not already in place.

 

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Should you get a UniFi security camera?

When it comes to UniFi security cameras, there are various aspects to consider. On the bright side, these cameras boast impressive 4K video quality, ensuring the footage is clear and detailed. Furthermore, they’re also built to last, with a sturdy design that can withstand various indoor or outdoor environments. This makes them a reliable choice for keeping an eye on things.

However, the flip side includes some considerations that might be deal-breakers for some. For instance, they’re on the pricier side, so they might not be the best fit if you’re working with a tight budget. Also, they require a lot of storage space because they capture high-resolution video.

Additionally, they require a Power over Ethernet (PoE) connection for power and data transmission, which might require extra setup if you don’t already have this infrastructure in place.

In short, UniFi cameras are great for those who prioritize top-notch video quality and durability and are willing to invest a bit more for these features. However, if cost, storage, and installation complexity are major concerns for you, it might be worth exploring other options.

 

What are the alternatives to UniFi?

Openeye Camera, another notable alternative in apartment automation and security software, offers sophisticated cloud-managed video surveillance solutions that are particularly adept at simplifying remote access and management of video footage. It’s an excellent option for those prioritizing easy access and managing their security systems via the cloud.

However, the ButterflyMX video intercom system is a better alternative to this security technology if you’re looking for a more robust access management solution. With ButterflyMX, you get an end-to-end access control system that facilitates entry from the front gate to the resident’s unit using one easy mobile app. Moreover, property managers and owners have the ability to remotely monitor resident and visitor access.

 

Disclaimer: ButterflyMX provides these blog posts to help our customers and potential customers make the right business decisions for them. Our blog posts are based on the information we have available to us at the time of writing.