Aqara Video Doorbell G4
VERDICT
Finally, a battery-powered doorbell that treats Apple users as first-class citizens. While it feels a bit "plasticky" compared to Ring or Google Nest, the software integration is flawless. It includes a separate Chime unit in the box (others sell it separately) and offers local storage via MicroSD. For the price, it's unbeatable.
The Big Picture
Most smart doorbells are just cameras stuck to your door. The Aqara G4 is a security system. It consists of two parts: the doorbell outside and a "Chime Repeater" inside. The Chime houses the MicroSD card, meaning if someone steals the doorbell off your wall, they don't get your footage—it's safely stored inside your house.
🍏 HomeKit Secure Video
The Exclusive: It’s rare to find this on battery doorbells.
How it works: It uses your iCloud+ plan to store 10 days of history. Your Apple TV or HomePod analyzes the video locally to tell you who is at the door (using your Photos library faces). It pops up automatically on your Apple TV screen when someone rings.
🔋 Dual Power Options
Flexible installation.
Battery: Runs on 6 standard AA batteries for about 4 months.
Wired: You can also wire it to your existing doorbell transformer (12V-24V AC) for continuous power, using the batteries only as a backup during power outages.
✅ The Pros
- Privacy: Footage stored locally (SD card) or encrypted in iCloud.
- Face Recognition: Very fast AI detection (on-device).
- Voice Changer: Can change your voice to "Uncle" or "Robot" to scare strangers.
- Free Chime: Loud indoor speaker included in the box.
❌ The Cons
- Aspect Ratio: 16:9 widescreen is great for panoramic views but bad for seeing packages on the ground.
- Build Quality: Feels a bit cheap/plastic compared to the metal Ring Pro.
- Batteries: Using AA batteries is convenient but less eco-friendly than a rechargeable pack.
🤔 Should you buy it?
YES if you use an iPhone and want a doorbell that integrates perfectly with your Apple ecosystem.
NO if you are heavily invested in Google Home (get the Google Nest Doorbell Battery) or want a head-to-toe view for packages (get the Eufy Video Doorbell Dual).
See the showdown: Aqara G4 vs. Logitech Circle View Doorbell Comparison