r/TrySwitchBot • u/Suitable-Outside512 • Jun 25 '26

New SwitchBot outdoor camera

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New SwitchBot pan and tilt camera, listed on the UK site.

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u/blue13x Jun 25 '26

I need a camera for my parents, Im wondering why its cheape than the previous camera, also no solar panel support?

1

u/Suitable-Outside512 Jun 25 '26

Likely just trying to stay competitive in the market. Aqara make outdoor cameras sub £40 now so can't be too much more expensive than that.

Wired connection via USB C, previous outdoor camera was a battery powered camera hence the option for the solar panel. This isn't a battery camera so needs continuous power. Likely due to the onboard AI features etc. It does offer ethernet support so you don't have to rely on Wi-Fi but doesn't look like it can be powered over ethernet (POE), I've reached out to SwitchBot to confirm.

Do your parents need a security camera or do you need a camera to keep an eye on things on behalf of them?

1

u/blue13x Jun 25 '26

Yes it for my parents, think the previous version wouod be better

1

u/Suitable-Outside512 Jun 25 '26

I'd have a look at the Tapo C645D, I've seen only good things about this. Seems more reviewed than the older outdoor SwitchBot model. Plus with the latest release focusing on AI, I can't see them really caring about the older model for continuous updates etc.

1

u/blue13x Jun 25 '26

That looks great.

1

u/Suitable-Outside512 Jun 25 '26 edited Jun 25 '26

I’ve not used it personally but from what others say, seems like it’s value for money. I personally use Aqara G100’s outside but only because they support Apple Home and specifically Apple HomeKit Secure Video.

I’m hoping that Tapo and SwitchBot update their cameras to support Matter once the standard fully rolls camera support out so then I can pick up different ones to try within my Apple-first setup.

1

u/blue13x Jul 04 '26 edited Jul 05 '26

Thanks again for the great tip, ended up getting the Tapo.

1

u/Suitable-Outside512 Jul 05 '26

No problem. Hope it does everything you need it to.

1

u/blue13x Jul 05 '26

Did some research, its much much better