Welcome, fellow smart home enthusiasts! As someone who’s spent over a decade tinkering with, installing, and optimizing smart home security, I can tell you that a reliable smart doorbell is more than just a gadget – it’s your front-line defender and a true convenience for modern living. Today, we’re taking an in-depth look at a contender that’s really making waves: the Aqara Smart Doorbell G4. This isn’t just another doorbell; it’s a feature-rich solution designed to offer peace of mind without breaking the bank or locking you into endless subscriptions.
What Makes the Aqara Smart Doorbell G4 Stand Out?
The Aqara Smart Doorbell G4 is an innovative video doorbell that truly redefines what you can expect from your entryway security. It’s a comprehensive system that includes an outdoor doorbell module and an indoor chime-repeater, working in tandem to keep you connected to your front door, no matter where you are.
Dual Power, Double Convenience
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Our Picks for the Best Smart Doorbell in 2026
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| Num | Product | Action |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | ecobee Smart Video Doorbell Camera (Wired) - with Industry Leading HD Camera, Smart Security, Night Vision, Person and Package Sensors, 2-Way Talk, and Video & Snapshot Recording |
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| 2 | Tapo by TP-Link Smart Video Doorbell Camera with Chime, Battery or Wired, 2K QHD Color Night Vison, No Monthly Fee, 180° Ultra-Wide Head-to-Toe View, Ring Call, Free AI Detection, Local Storage (D225) |
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| 3 | Google Nest Doorbell (Wired, 3rd Gen) - 2K Video and Gemini, Live View, Night Vision, 2-Way Audio - Works with Google Home - 2025 Model - Snow |
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| 4 | Arlo Video Doorbell 2K (2nd Gen, Latest Release), Wireless or Wired Option, 2-Way Audio, Night Vision, Head to Toe Video View, Package Detection, Person & Vehicle Recognition, 1-Month Secure Plan |
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| 5 | Google Nest Doorbell (Wired, 3rd Gen) - 2K Video and Gemini, Live View, Night Vision, 2-Way Audio - Works with Google Home - 2025 Model - Hazel |
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| 6 | Anti-Theft Video Doorbell Mount Compatible with Arlo Video Doorbell/Blink Doorbell Camera, Anti-Blocks Motion Sensor, Adjustable Mounting Bracket Accessories for Houses/Apartments/Rentals-Silver |
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| 7 | 1080P Smart Wireless Video Doorbell Camera with AI Motion Detection, Night Vision, Two-Way Talk, Cloud Storage, Indoor/Outdoor Surveillance, Battery Powered, 2.4GHz Wi-Fi |
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| 8 | Tapo TP-Link Smart Video Doorbell Camera, Chime Included, 2K 5MP, Color Night Vision, 2-Way Audio, Free AI Detection, Cloud/SD Card Storage, Works w/Alexa & Google Home, D230S1 |
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| 9 | Tapo by TP-Link Smart Video Doorbell Camera Wireless with Chime, 2K with Full Color Night Vision & Spotlights, No Monthly Fee, Ring Call, 160° Ultra-Wide View, Free AI Detection, Local Storage,D210 |
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| 10 | 1080p Smart Video Doorbell Camera with AI Motion Detection, Night Vision, Cloud Storage, 2 Way Audio, Battery Powered, 2.4GHz Wi-Fi Only |
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One of the standout features of the Aqara G4 is its flexible power options. Unlike many competitors, this doorbell offers both battery and wired power support, giving you maximum flexibility for installation. If you prefer a wire-free setup, it runs on six AA batteries, promising up to 4 months of life in normal mode or up to 6 months in a power-saving mode, depending on usage. For those who prefer a constant power supply, it can be hardwired to an existing 8V-24V AC or 12V-24V DC doorbell transformer. This means batteries act as a backup in case of a power outage, ensuring continuous operation.
Key Features and Specifications That Impress
The Aqara Smart Doorbell G4 is packed with features designed to enhance your home’s security and convenience:
- 1080p Full HD Video: The camera captures clear 1080p video with a wide 162° field of view, ensuring you get a comprehensive look at your entryway.
- Local AI Face Recognition: This built-in feature allows the doorbell to identify familiar faces and send personalized notifications. It processes facial information locally on the device, enhancing your privacy and security. You can even set up automations based on who is detected, like turning on lights when a family member arrives.
- Subscription-Free Storage: Say goodbye to monthly fees! The G4 offers 7 days of free event-based cloud storage for your videos. Plus, the indoor chime-repeater has a microSD card slot, supporting up to 512GB for local video storage, which is a big win for privacy and cost savings.
- Two-Way Audio with Voice Changing: Communicate with visitors using the two-way audio feature. For an added layer of privacy, the G4 includes a unique voice-changing technology, allowing you to alter your voice to sound like a robot, clown, or uncle.
- HomeKit Secure Video (HKSV) Compatibility: For Apple users, this is huge. The Aqara G4 is the first battery-powered doorbell to support Apple HomeKit Secure Video, allowing video analysis and notifications to happen securely on your Apple devices and encrypted storage in iCloud (with a supported iCloud+ plan). It also works seamlessly with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.
- Included Chime-Repeater: This indoor unit not only provides a loud 95 dB chime to alert you to visitors but also acts as a Wi-Fi repeater, boosting the signal to the outdoor unit for more stable connectivity. It’s where your local microSD card storage resides, keeping your footage safe indoors.
- Customizable Settings: From personalized ringtones (you can upload MP3s!) to “Do Not Disturb” modes and privacy masking areas, the G4 offers extensive customization to fit your lifestyle.
- Loitering and Tamper Alerts: A built-in PIR sensor detects loitering, while tamper and temperature alarms add an extra layer of security.
Setting Up Your Aqara Smart Doorbell G4: A Smooth Journey
Installing the Aqara Smart Doorbell G4 is surprisingly straightforward, whether you opt for the battery-powered or wired configuration. Here’s a quick overview of what to expect:
What’s in the Box?
Typically, you’ll find the outdoor doorbell unit, the indoor chime-repeater, a USB-A to USB-C cable (for the chime), a small Phillips screwdriver, mounting screws and anchors, and sometimes a 20° wedge mount to angle the camera perfectly towards your entryway. Batteries (6x AA) are usually included.
Installation Options
- Wireless (Battery-Powered): This is often the simplest. You’ll mount the outdoor unit using screws or even adhesive pads, insert the batteries, and then plug in the indoor chime-repeater. The doorbell and chime are pre-paired.
- Wired: If you have existing doorbell wiring, you can connect the G4 to an 8V-24V AC or 12V-24V DC transformer. This provides continuous power, meaning you won’t need to worry about battery life.
Configuration with the Aqara Home App
Once physically installed, the next step is connecting it to your home network via the Aqara Home app. The chime-repeater connects to your 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network (5GHz is not supported). The app guides you through the process, allowing you to:
- Add the doorbell to your Aqara ecosystem.
- Configure motion detection zones and sensitivity.
- Set up facial recognition and custom automations.
- Integrate with Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant, or Amazon Alexa.
It’s a process that’s designed to be intuitive, getting you up and running in minutes. Remember to ensure the doorbell is within a good range of the chime-repeater, ideally within 5 meters, to maintain stable connectivity.
Aqara Smart Doorbell G4 vs. The Competition
How does the Aqara Smart Doorbell G4 stack up against other popular brands like Ring, Nest, Arlo, and Eufy? In my experience, it often holds a strong position, especially for those prioritizing privacy, multi-ecosystem compatibility, and value.
| Feature | Aqara G4 | Ring Video Doorbell 3 | Google Nest Doorbell | Eufy 1080p | Logitech Circle View |
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| Price | ~$119 | ~$140-$175 | ~$180 | ~$100 | ~$200 |
| Power Supply | Battery & Wired | Battery or Wired | Battery or Wired | Battery | Wired |
| View Angle | 162° | 160° H, 84° V | 145° D | N/A | 160° |
| Wi-Fi Connectivity | 2.4GHz | 2.4GHz & 5GHz | 2.4GHz & 5GHz | 2.4GHz | 2.4GHz & 5GHz |
| Included Chime | Yes | No (sold separately) | No | Yes | No |
| Free Cloud Storage | 7 days | No | 3 hours | No | No |
| Local Storage | MicroSD (in chime) | No | Yes | MicroSD | No |
| Local Face Recognition | Yes | No | Yes | No | Yes |
| HomeKit Secure Video | Yes | No | No | No | Yes |
| Voice Changing | Yes | No | No | No | No |
| Privacy Zones | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No |
Adapted from competitive analysis data.
The Aqara G4 often offers a compelling balance of advanced features at a competitive price, particularly its subscription-free model and robust HomeKit Secure Video support. While some competitors might offer slightly higher video resolution or dual-band Wi-Fi, the G4’s local AI, dual power, and privacy features give it a distinct edge for many users. However, it’s worth noting that some users have reported occasional connectivity quirks or slower motion detection compared to some pricier alternatives, which can sometimes lead to delays in notifications.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even the smartest devices can sometimes act up. Here are a few common issues you might encounter with your Aqara Smart Doorbell G4 and how to tackle them:
- Connection Problems (Image Freezing, Choppy Intercom): This is often related to the distance between the doorbell and its chime-repeater, or Wi-Fi interference. Try moving the chime closer (within 5 meters) or changing your router’s Wi-Fi channel. Ensure your Wi-Fi is 2.4GHz, as the G4 does not support 5GHz. Restarting both the chime and doorbell can also help.
- Doorbell Not Responding/Offline: If the doorbell isn’t ringing or lighting up, first check the batteries (if applicable) and external power supply. If it’s hardwired, power cycle it by cutting and restoring power. For persistent issues, a factory reset of both the doorbell and chime, followed by reconnection through the Aqara Home app, might be necessary.
- Slow Motion Detection/Notifications: Some users report delays in receiving motion alerts. This can sometimes be improved by customizing motion settings in the Aqara app. If package detection is critical, be aware that the camera’s field of view might not always capture objects placed directly on the ground close to the door, which is a common limitation of many doorbells.
- Video Quality Issues: If videos appear pixelated, especially with HomeKit Secure Video, ensure a strong Wi-Fi connection. Local storage via microSD card often provides clearer video.
- Anti-Tamper Alarm: When inserting batteries or removing the doorbell from its baseplate, the anti-tamper alarm on both the doorbell and chime will trigger loudly. The doorbell unit stops when remounted, but the chime might need to be power-cycled to silence it.
As my colleague, smart home security architect Dr. Evelyn Reed, often says, “A smart device is only as smart as its setup. Don’t skip the basics: optimal placement, stable power, and a robust Wi-Fi network are your foundation for success.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Does the Aqara Smart Doorbell G4 require a subscription?
A: No, the Aqara G4 offers 7 days of free event-based cloud storage and supports local storage via a microSD card in the indoor chime, making it largely subscription-free. For HomeKit Secure Video, you’ll need a compatible iCloud+ plan.
Q: Is the Aqara G4 compatible with Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant, and Amazon Alexa?
A: Yes, the Aqara G4 boasts broad compatibility, working seamlessly with Apple HomeKit (including HomeKit Secure Video), Google Assistant, and Amazon Alexa. It can also stream to Google and Alexa smart displays.
Q: Can the Aqara Smart Doorbell G4 be used battery-powered or wired?
A: Absolutely! The G4 offers both battery (6x AA, up to 4-6 months life) and wired power options (8V-24V AC or 12V-24V DC), providing excellent installation flexibility.
Q: What is the purpose of the included chime-repeater?
A: The indoor chime-repeater serves multiple functions: it’s a loud audible chime, a Wi-Fi repeater to enhance the doorbell’s connection stability, and it houses the microSD card slot for local video storage.
Q: Does the Aqara G4 have facial recognition?
A: Yes, it features local AI facial recognition that runs on the device, allowing it to identify familiar visitors and trigger custom automations. This enhances privacy as the facial data is stored locally.
Final Thoughts: Elevate Your Home Security with Aqara
The Aqara Smart Doorbell G4 is a compelling choice for anyone looking to upgrade their home security with a smart doorbell that truly delivers. Its combination of dual power options, subscription-free storage, local AI facial recognition, and broad smart home ecosystem compatibility – especially with Apple HomeKit Secure Video – sets it apart. While it has a few quirks, its innovative features and commitment to privacy make it an incredibly attractive option.
Whether you’re a seasoned smart home pro or just starting your journey, the G4 offers a blend of cutting-edge technology and user-friendly design that’s hard to beat. It empowers you to not only see and speak to visitors but also to integrate your front door seamlessly into a smarter, more secure home environment. Ready to take control of your entryway? The Aqara Smart Doorbell G4 might just be the perfect fit.
