Xiaomi Smart Camera 3 3K: Affordable security camera launches without cloud requirement

Xiaomi has added a new security camera to its lineup of smart home devices. True to its descriptive name, the Xiaomi Smart Camera 3 3K captures sharp images at a resolution of 2,960 x 1,668 pixels. The rather compact device supports both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi, enabling a more stable wireless connection depending on placement and network conditions. Despite its wireless connectivity, the Xiaomi Smart Camera 3 3K still can’t operate fully wirelessly and requires external power because it lacks an integrated battery.

The camera can be placed on a flat surface, such as a shelf or a table, or mounted on a ceiling. It should also be able to cover larger spaces due to its ability to rotate fully on its own axis and tilt by up to 109 degrees, with the adjustable pitch being especially useful for ceiling installations.

The smart camera uses AI to detect humans. Users can communicate with individuals in front of the device via its built-in speaker and microphone. According to Xiaomi, the device can deliver colour images even in low-light conditions. Additionally, infrared LEDs are included to provide night vision in extremely dark environments. Videos can be stored locally on a microSD card, on network storage devices, or in the cloud. The Xiaomi Smart Camera 3 3K is now available in China at an introductory price of ¥169 (US$24), down from its list price of ¥199 (US$29). Customers outside China might also be interested in the Xiaomi Smart Camera C500 (available on Amazon), which features a higher 3.5K resolution.