Ubiquiti announced the new G4 Instant last week, and it is in beta or Early Access how Ubiquiti calls it. This comes just under a year since the G3 Instant was launched, a very cost effective wireless camera, with support for UniFi Protect. The G4 Instant takes it a step further, with much higher resolution, support for Smart Detections*, IK04 impact resistance and IPX5 outdoor rating – and it can withstand -20 C temperatures.
The G3 Instant is $29 in the US and the G4 Instant, whilst in beta at the moment is on sale for $99.
G3 Instant | G4 Instant | |
Power Type | USB C at 5V 2A, power supply included. | USB C at 5V 2A, power supply included. 802.3af with optional adaptor, power only. |
Camera Megapixel | 2MP | 5MP |
Connectivity Method | Dual Band 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac Wi-Fi | Dual Band 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac Wi-Fi |
Build Material | Polycarbonate | Polycarbonate |
Special Features | Two way audio | Two way audio |
FPS | 30FPS | 30FPS |
Lens view angle | 133˚ | 102.4˚ |
Resolution | 1920 x 1080 | 2688 x 1512 |
Night Vision | Intergrated IR emitters | Intergrated IR emitters |
Weatherproof rating | None, indoor use only | IPX5 |
Resistance rating | None | IK04 |
Price | $29 / £26.51 | $99 / £85.85 |
Recommendation
The cost difference is quite large, but if you need to use a wireless camera outside and it needs to be from Ubiquiti, then the G4 Instant is your best bet. However it must be said the value of the G3 Instant at $29, but it can only be used indoors.
* Correction 21/12/21: The G4 won’t be coming with support for smart detections, the confusion due to a misleading video published by Ubiquiti which was then promptly pulled which mentioned support for smart detections.
* Correction again 28/12/22: Ubiquiti added support for smart detections earlier this year in July.
