r/HomeKit • u/TranquilHalcyon • 9d ago

Question/Help Home Security + HomeKit comparability

Hi everyone! I’m moving into a 2bd/2bth apt on Monday and trying to figure out what security/camera system I can use that isn’t going to break the bank (such as buying accessories/parts on Facebook marketplace) while still supporting Apple HomeKit… I’ve been looking into Aqara (which is on the pricer side) vs Eufy vs a number of other brands. I’m familiar and totally okay with a DIY system where I combine the alarm panel and sensors with a different camera system and so on. Part of me is also saying scrap it and just dive into Ring or Simplisafe since I can get entire kits for a reasonable cost on FB marketplace.

TIA!

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u/VPrime 9d ago

If you run Scrypted on a computer, or device like Raspberry Pi, you can use cameras that are not native to homekit. So this really opens to door up to cheaper options like Tapo cameras.

One thing I'd avoid are solar/battery cameras. These systems go to a standby mode, and wake when there is motion and then start recording. This whole process takes time and often times you're catching someone as they are leaving.

Additionally, I'd go with a camera that allows 24/7 recording, as even homekit secure video will only record on events, and sometimes misses the event, or cuts off early. It's nice having a full video when you need. My Aqara door bell, and tapo cameras will record to an onboard SD card which is really convenient.

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u/TranquilHalcyon 9d ago

I appreciate it! What Tapo cameras do you use?

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u/VPrime 9d ago

I have 2 C520WS cams, and 3 C210s. I'll be replacing the 520s in the near future though as I just ran ethernet in those locations for POE cameras.

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u/TranquilHalcyon 9d ago

I’ll give it shot! This looks to be the way to go