What Is the Aqara Video Doorbell Full System and How It Works

The Aqara Video Doorbell Full System is an all-in-one smart home security solution that combines a high-definition video doorbell with a chime unit and seamless integration into the Aqara ecosystem. It enables real-time two-way audio, motion detection, and encrypted cloud or local storage for reliable, private monitoring of your front door from anywhere via the Aqara app.

Key Takeaways

• All-in-one security: Combines HD video, motion detection, and two-way talk for complete door monitoring.
• Smart home integration: Works seamlessly with Apple HomeKit, Alexa, and Google Home for unified control.
• Local storage option: Save recordings on microSD card to avoid monthly cloud fees.
• Real-time alerts: Get instant notifications when visitors press the button or trigger motion sensors.
• Night vision capability: See clearly in darkness with infrared LEDs up to 16 feet away.
• Wireless setup: Easy DIY installation with rechargeable battery or existing doorbell wiring.

What Is the Aqara Video Doorbell Full System and How It Works

Imagine never missing a visitor, package, or suspicious activity at your front door—even when you’re miles away. That’s the promise of the Aqara Video Doorbell Full System, a smart home security solution designed to deliver peace of mind through advanced technology, seamless integration, and user-friendly functionality. In an era where home automation is no longer a luxury but a necessity, Aqara has positioned itself as a leader in the smart doorbell market by combining sleek design, robust security features, and compatibility with major smart home ecosystems like Apple HomeKit, Google Home, and Amazon Alexa.

But what exactly is the Aqara Video Doorbell Full System? It’s more than just a doorbell with a camera. It’s a comprehensive, interconnected security platform that includes not only the video doorbell itself but also essential accessories and integration tools that elevate your home’s front-line defense. Whether you’re a tech-savvy homeowner, a renter looking for a non-invasive security upgrade, or a smart home enthusiast building a fully automated environment, the Aqara system offers a compelling blend of affordability, reliability, and cutting-edge features. In this guide, we’ll break down every component, explain how the system works, explore its standout features, and help you determine if it’s the right fit for your home.

Understanding the Components of the Aqara Video Doorbell Full System

The Aqara Video Doorbell Full System isn’t a single device—it’s a coordinated suite of hardware and software components designed to work in harmony. Each piece plays a critical role in delivering a seamless, secure, and intelligent doorbell experience. Below, we’ll explore the core components that make up the full system and how they contribute to its overall functionality.

The Aqara Video Doorbell G3 (or G4, depending on region/model)

The centerpiece of the system is the Aqara Video Doorbell G3 (or G4 in certain markets), a high-definition, Wi-Fi-enabled doorbell with a built-in camera and motion sensor. This device is designed for both wired and battery-powered installation, offering flexibility for different home setups. The G3 features a 1620p resolution camera with a 170° ultra-wide-angle lens, ensuring you capture every detail from head to toe. It also includes infrared night vision, enabling clear footage in total darkness up to 5 meters.

One of the standout features of the G3 is its dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) support, which ensures a stable and fast connection, even in areas with network congestion. The doorbell also includes a built-in speaker and microphone for two-way audio, allowing you to communicate with visitors remotely via the Aqara app.

Pro Tip: For optimal performance, install the doorbell in an area with strong Wi-Fi coverage. If your front porch is far from your router, consider using a Wi-Fi extender or mesh network to eliminate dead zones.

The Aqara Chime (Indoor Doorbell Receiver)

While the doorbell can notify you via smartphone alerts, the Aqara Chime serves as the indoor audio alert system. Plugged into any standard power outlet, the Chime emits a customizable ringtone when someone presses the doorbell or when motion is detected. It’s especially useful for users who don’t always have their phone handy or for homes where multiple family members need to hear the alert.

The Chime supports up to 16 different ringtones, including classic chimes, melodies, and even voice prompts (e.g., “Someone is at the door”). It also features adjustable volume and a night mode that automatically lowers the sound after a certain hour.

Real-World Example: A family with young children can set the Chime to a gentle chime at night, avoiding loud alerts that might wake the kids, while keeping daytime alerts at a higher volume for better awareness.

Aqara Home Hub (Required for Full Functionality)

To unlock the full potential of the Aqara Video Doorbell, you’ll need an Aqara Home Hub (such as the Hub M1S, Hub M2, or Hub E1). The hub acts as the central brain of the Aqara ecosystem, enabling advanced features like local video storage, automation triggers, and integration with other Aqara smart devices (e.g., lights, locks, sensors).

Without a hub, the doorbell can still stream live video and send basic motion alerts, but you’ll miss out on local recording, facial recognition, and complex automation scenarios. The hub connects to your home network via Ethernet or Wi-Fi and communicates with all Aqara devices using Zigbee 3.0, ensuring low latency and high reliability.

Tip: Place the hub near your router for the best performance. If using Wi-Fi, ensure it’s on the same network as your doorbell to avoid connectivity issues.

MicroSD Card for Local Storage (Optional but Recommended)

While Aqara offers cloud storage plans (available in select regions), the system also supports local storage via a MicroSD card (up to 128GB). This is a major advantage for users concerned about privacy, bandwidth usage, or recurring subscription fees. Local storage allows you to save video clips directly to the card, which can be accessed via the Aqara app or removed for backup.

For example, if your internet goes down, the doorbell continues to record locally. Once the connection is restored, the app can sync and notify you of any missed events.

Smart Home Integration Devices (Optional Add-Ons)

The full system can be enhanced with additional Aqara devices such as Aqara Smart Locks, Motion Sensors, Smart Lights, and Cameras. These devices can be programmed to trigger actions when the doorbell detects motion or is pressed. For instance, when the doorbell senses someone approaching, it can automatically turn on the porch light or unlock the door for a recognized family member.

This level of integration transforms the doorbell from a standalone device into a proactive security and convenience system.

How the Aqara Video Doorbell System Works: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

Now that we’ve identified the components, let’s dive into how they work together to deliver a smart, responsive, and secure doorbell experience. The system operates on a combination of hardware sensors, cloud/local processing, and smart automation—all coordinated through the Aqara app and Home Hub.

1. Motion Detection and Video Capture

The system begins with PIR (Passive Infrared) motion detection. When someone approaches within the detection range (typically 2–5 meters), the doorbell’s PIR sensor triggers the camera to start recording. Simultaneously, it sends a notification to your smartphone via the Aqara app.

The camera uses AI-powered person detection to distinguish between humans, animals, and vehicles. This reduces false alerts from pets or passing cars. You can customize the detection zone in the app to focus on the porch while ignoring sidewalk traffic.

Example: You can set the detection zone to ignore the street but capture anyone stepping onto your driveway. This is especially useful in urban areas with heavy foot traffic.

2. Live View and Two-Way Audio

Upon receiving a motion or doorbell press alert, you can open the Aqara app to access a real-time live video feed. The app displays the video in high definition, with options to zoom, pan, or switch between day/night mode. You can also speak through the app using the built-in microphone, and your voice is transmitted through the doorbell’s speaker.

This two-way audio feature is invaluable for interacting with delivery drivers, visitors, or even deterring potential intruders. You can pre-record quick responses (e.g., “Leave the package by the door”) for faster communication.

3. Local or Cloud Recording

Depending on your setup, video clips are stored either locally on a MicroSD card or in the cloud (via Aqara’s subscription service). Local storage is encrypted and accessible only through the app, ensuring privacy. Cloud storage offers additional benefits like longer retention (up to 30 days), remote access from multiple devices, and AI-powered event tagging (e.g., “Package delivered at 2:15 PM”).

Tip: Use local storage for everyday use and subscribe to cloud storage only during high-traffic periods (e.g., holidays, vacations) to save costs.

4. Smart Automation and Scene Triggers

The true power of the Aqara system lies in its automation capabilities. Using the Aqara app, you can create “Scenes” or “Automations” that link the doorbell to other smart devices. For example:

• When the doorbell detects motion, turn on the porch light and send a push notification to all family members’ phones.

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• If the doorbell is pressed between 10 PM and 6 AM, activate a “Night Mode” scene that turns on indoor lights and locks all doors.
• When a recognized face is detected (via facial recognition), automatically unlock the smart lock and send a personalized greeting.

These automations run locally through the Aqara Hub, ensuring they work even if your internet is down.

5. Integration with Major Smart Home Platforms

The Aqara Video Doorbell is compatible with Apple HomeKit (with HomeKit Secure Video), Google Home, and Amazon Alexa. This means you can view live feeds on Apple TV, receive doorbell alerts on Echo devices, or use Google Assistant to check who’s at the door using voice commands.

With HomeKit Secure Video, your video footage is encrypted and processed on your Apple devices (e.g., HomePod, iPad), offering an extra layer of privacy and reducing reliance on third-party servers.

Key Features and Benefits of the Aqara Video Doorbell Full System

The Aqara Video Doorbell Full System stands out in a crowded market thanks to a combination of innovative features, user-centric design, and ecosystem flexibility. Below are the most impactful benefits that make it a top contender for smart home security.

1. High-Quality Video and Night Vision

With 1620p resolution and a 170° field of view, the doorbell captures crisp, distortion-free video. The wide-angle lens ensures you see visitors from head to toe, eliminating blind spots. The infrared night vision (up to 5 meters) provides clear black-and-white footage in complete darkness, with no visible red glow to alert intruders.

Comparison: Many budget doorbells offer only 1080p resolution and narrow fields of view (e.g., 110°), making the Aqara G3 a significant upgrade.

2. Local AI Processing and Facial Recognition

Unlike many competitors that rely on cloud-based AI, Aqara processes facial recognition and person detection locally on the hub. This means:

• No subscription required for basic AI features.
• Faster response times (no cloud latency).
• Greater privacy (your data never leaves your home).

You can register up to 20 faces in the app, and the system will notify you when a recognized family member arrives.

3. Dual Power Options and Long Battery Life

The doorbell supports both wired (8–24V AC) and battery-powered (6x AA batteries) installation. When wired, it draws power from your existing doorbell transformer. When battery-powered, it lasts up to 6 months on a single charge (based on average use).

Tip: Use rechargeable lithium AA batteries for better performance in cold weather.

4. Weather Resistance and Durability

Rated IPX3 for water resistance, the doorbell can withstand light rain and splashes. It’s also designed to operate in temperatures from -20°C to 50°C (-4°F to 122°F), making it suitable for most climates.

5. Privacy-First Design

Aqara prioritizes user privacy with features like:

• End-to-end encryption for video streams.
• Local storage option (no mandatory cloud).
• On-device processing for AI features.
• Physical shutter for the camera (on select models).

Setting Up the Aqara Video Doorbell: A Practical Guide

Installing the Aqara Video Doorbell Full System is straightforward, but proper setup is key to unlocking its full potential. Below is a step-by-step guide to get you up and running.

Step 1: Choose Your Power Source

Decide whether you’ll use wired or battery power. For wired setups, ensure your existing doorbell circuit provides 8–24V AC. If not, you may need a transformer or opt for battery mode. Battery mode is ideal for renters or homes without a wired doorbell.

Step 2: Install the Doorbell

• For wired: Turn off power, remove old doorbell, connect the two wires to the Aqara backplate, and attach the doorbell.
• For battery: Insert 6x AA batteries into the backplate, then attach the doorbell.

Tip: Use the included mounting bracket and level tool for a clean, straight installation.

Step 3: Set Up the Aqara Home Hub

Plug the hub into power and connect it to your router via Ethernet (recommended) or Wi-Fi. Download the Aqara Home app and follow the in-app instructions to add the hub to your account.

Step 4: Pair the Doorbell and Chime

In the app, select “Add Device” and follow the prompts to connect the doorbell and Chime to the hub. Ensure both are within 10 meters of the hub during setup.

Step 5: Configure Notifications and Automations

Customize motion detection zones, notification settings, and create automations. For example, set the Chime to play a specific ringtone when the doorbell is pressed.

Step 6: Test and Optimize

Test the live view, two-way audio, and automation triggers. Adjust Wi-Fi settings or hub placement if you experience lag or disconnections.

Comparison Table: Aqara vs. Competitors

Feature	Aqara G3	Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2	Google Nest Doorbell (Wired)
Resolution	1620p	1536p	1600p
Field of View	170°	160°	160°
Night Vision	Infrared (5m)	Color (with spotlight)	Color (with spotlight)
Storage	Local + Cloud	Cloud only	Cloud only
AI Features	Local person/facial recognition	Cloud-based (subscription)	Cloud-based (subscription)
Smart Home Integration	Apple HomeKit, Google, Alexa	Google, Alexa	Google, Alexa
Power Options	Wired or battery	Wired only	Wired only

Conclusion: Is the Aqara Video Doorbell Full System Right for You?

The Aqara Video Doorbell Full System is more than just a doorbell—it’s a comprehensive, privacy-focused, and highly customizable smart home security solution. By combining high-quality hardware, local AI processing, and seamless integration with major smart home platforms, Aqara delivers a product that balances performance, privacy, and affordability in a way few competitors can match.

Whether you’re looking to enhance your home’s security, simplify package deliveries, or build a fully automated smart home ecosystem, the Aqara system offers a compelling package. Its support for both wired and battery-powered installation makes it accessible to homeowners and renters alike, while its local storage option appeals to privacy-conscious users wary of cloud subscriptions.

Of course, no system is perfect. The requirement for a separate hub may be a barrier for some, and cloud storage is not available in all regions. However, for users willing to invest in the full ecosystem, the payoff is a reliable, intelligent, and future-proof doorbell experience. In a world where peace of mind is priceless, the Aqara Video Doorbell Full System is a smart, strategic choice that delivers on its promises—one chime, one alert, and one secure home at a time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Aqara Video Doorbell Full System?

The Aqara Video Doorbell Full System is a smart home security solution that includes a high-resolution video doorbell, indoor chime, and optional hub integration. It offers real-time video, motion detection, and two-way audio to monitor your front door remotely via a smartphone app.

How does the Aqara Video Doorbell Full System work?

The system connects to your Wi-Fi or Aqara Hub, sending live video and alerts to your phone when motion is detected or the doorbell is pressed. It integrates with smart home platforms like Apple HomeKit, Alexa, and Google Assistant for seamless automation.

Is the Aqara Video Doorbell Full System easy to install?

Yes, the system is designed for DIY installation with included mounting hardware and step-by-step app guidance. It supports both wired and battery-powered setups for added flexibility.

Does the Aqara Video Doorbell require a subscription?

No, the doorbell offers local storage via microSD card and optional cloud storage without mandatory subscriptions. However, cloud plans provide extended recording history and enhanced security features.

What features make the Aqara Video Doorbell Full System stand out?

It boasts 1080p HD video, AI-powered person detection, night vision, and customizable activity zones. The system also supports voice control and automation with other Aqara smart devices.

Can I integrate the Aqara Video Doorbell with other smart home devices?

Yes, it works with Aqara sensors, lights, and locks, as well as Apple HomeKit, Alexa, and Google Assistant. This allows for routines like turning on lights when motion is detected at the door.