Seeking Recommendations for Outdoor Security Camera Setup

Hi everyone, I’m currently exploring options for setting up an outdoor security camera system and would love to hear your experiences and recommendations. I recently installed the Arlo Pro2, but unfortunately, it hasn’t met my expectations. The system seems unstable, and I’ve faced issues getting the video feed to work reliably across my devices. I’m hoping to find a more reliable solution that integrates well with my existing smart home ecosystem.

What I’m Looking For:

  1. Compatibility with Homey: I’d love a system that plays nicely with Homey for creating flows and automations.
  2. HomeKit Integration: While Arlo has some HomeKit support, it’s been hit or miss for me. I’d appreciate any recommendations for cameras that work seamlessly with HomeKit, whether officially or through third-party apps.
  3. TV Integration: My main goal is to have the video feed display on my TVs (Chromecast, Apple TV, or Android TV) based on specific triggers, like motion detection or manual activation. This would be a huge plus for monitoring my property effortlessly.

Potential Options I’ve Considered:

  • Netatmo: I’ve heard great things about their cameras, especially their integration with smart home systems.
  • Ring: Their ecosystem is well-known, but I’m curious about how it integrates with Homey and HomeKit.
  • Nest: Another reliable brand, but I’m not sure about their compatibility with Homey.
  • Synology Surveillance Station: I’ve considered this for more advanced setups, but I’m not sure if it’s overkill for my needs.

Desired Functionality:
Ideally, I’d love to create flows where motion detection automatically triggers the camera to cast to my TV. For example, if a motion sensor is tripped, I’d like the corresponding camera feed to appear on my living room TV. This would be incredibly helpful for keeping an eye on things without constantly checking my phone or another device.

Questions:

  • Has anyone successfully integrated an outdoor camera system with both Homey and HomeKit?
  • Are there specific cameras or brands that stand out for their reliability and integration capabilities?
  • Any tips or tricks for ensuring smooth video casting to TVs?

I’m really looking forward to hearing your thoughts and experiences. If anyone has a setup that works particularly well, I’d love to learn more about it! Thanks in advance for your help. :grinning: