If you’re looking for basic outdoor surveillance without spending a fortune, consider the Xiaomi Outdoor Camera BW300 in your options.
When I learned that I was going to review a security camera, my first thought was: How do I even review a security camera?
After a bit of research on security cameras, I put this one to test. Here are three things that I found out about it.
1. It’s easy to use
Well, it did not take me long enough to figure which trait stood out. I went with the first thing I noticed upon reviewing this product—it’s the ease of use.
The camera is controlled via the Mi Home app—meaning you can monitor your home from your phone. Moreover, the user interface is not difficult to navigate too—everything has been simplified. Even installing the device isn’t a complicated task; you can choose whether you want it wall-mounted or ceiling-mounted. So, for first-time users of security cameras like me, setting it up won’t be much of a hassle.
For me, we mounted it on a wall near our main gate so we could see whoever rings the doorbell.
But one occasion I think this would be most helpful is for when your online shopping delivery arrives but no one is there to receive it. Why? This security camera has a two-way audio feature that is built for easier communications through the camera.
Through the Mi Home app, you may click the microphone icon to communicate with the people outside your gate. If you turn the speaker icon on too, you will be able to hear the person outside.
Here in this video demonstration, my brother is trying to talk to me through the security camera.
2. It survived Super Typhoon #Carina
We had the security camera installed just right in time before typhoon #Carina made her landfall. Despite the strong winds and rains, this camera did just fine—thanks to its IP rating of IP67.
Our home doesn’t flood easily, however, we have huge, slanting trees in front of our house. But we feared that strong winds could easily bring them down, and our house would be the first thing they could fall onto.
With the help of the camera, we were able to monitor what’s happening outside our house without having to go out into the heavy rain.
3. It gives a 2K resolution for monitoring—day or night.
I think what I most enjoy about this camera is the jump in clarity from 480p to 2K. This is already high resolution paired with a fast aperture of f/1.6. At night, it has the Color Night-Vision, which helps in viewing recordings and watching live footage without losing color.
It also sends notifications if it has detected any movement. In order to have the AI recognition included, you have to pay a monthly subscription of P305. This service includes recognizing and recording people, objects, and activities in your surroundings.
But if you do not wish to spend for extra security, it’s totally fine. With the clarity of its 2K resolution, you will have clearer surveillance footage available..
Now, does it drain its 4900mAh battery faster? It does. I tried the 2K resolution overnight with a starting battery of 100%. Checking the battery percentage in the morning, and it was down to 84%. This is in comparison with testing the overnight use in 480p resolution, that still had 91% battery in the morning.
The difference isn’t that big. But if you want to avoid frequent charging, the camera has an optional solar panel accessory.
The Xiaomi Outdoor Camera BW300 is priced at P3,699 in Shopee and P2,909 in Lazada. Package contents are the camera, mounting bracket, the charging cable, installation positioning stickers, four expansion bolts, four screws, warning stickers, and the user manual. If you want to get a hand-feel experience, check out our unboxing video of the security camera here.
