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Uniview and Ubiquiti are two of the most recognized security camera brands in the US. Both brands have an impressive catalog of cameras and other video surveillance devices.
Uniview has become an internationally recognized brand. They currently compete with the likes of Dahua and Hikvision. Ubiquity is not far behind as it’s one of the top players in the US market.
- Uniview is an original equipment manufacturer (OEM). It has an extensive lineup of security cameras and associated devices.
- Uniview also offers its services to other rebranders.
- Uniview has a mix of NDAA-compliant and non-compliant devices.
- Ubiquity also has a wide range of video surveillance devices. These devices range from general-use PoE to highly specialized PTZ cameras.
- Since Ubiquity is an entirely US-based company, their devices are NDAA compliant.
Uniview vs Ubiquiti Security Cameras (2024) at a Glance
Budget PoE Camera Head to Head
Mid-Range PoE Camera Head to Head
PTZ Head to Head
Fisheye Head to Head
Uniview vs Ubiquiti Security Cameras (2024) Overview
Uniview (also referred to as UNV) was founded in 2005. It was a Chinese-based company that originated in the Hangzhou province of China.
Ubiquity is a US-based company founded in 2003. They began with network devices such as routers and servers. After several years, they expanded into video surveillance.
Budget PoE Camera Head to Head
Key Differences
For our first comparison, we have the Uniview 5MP bullet-type camera versus Ubiquiti’s G3 Flex turret-style camera.
In terms of image quality and higher image resolution, the Uniview 5MP camera takes the cake. Its 5MP camera can record footage at 2880x1620 resolution and has 120dB True WDR integrated into its camera system.
Meanwhile, the Ubiquity G3 Flex can only record at 1080p resolution using a 2MP camera. For post-processing, it has an HDR sensor, which is not as efficient or responsive as True WDR.
Apart from that, the Uniview camera has full-color night vision (using lowlight sensors), MicroSD support, and waterproof IP67 housing. The Ubiquity camera has an inferior IPX4 rating with an NVR-only interface and basic infrared night vision.
Key Features in Common
Despite this glaring difference between these two budget PoE options, both cameras utilize a 1/2.7" image sensor with a fixed-focus lens.
They also have decent infrared night vision and built-in microphones for recording audio (that can be disabled via the software if necessary).
All things considered, the Uniview bullet-type camera might seem like the superior option, and for most applications, it is more versatile and reliable than the Ubiquiti G3 Flex.
However, the Ubiquiti camera is more compact and easy to install, thanks to its various mounting options. Also, it is the only viable option when adding cameras to an already existing UniFi ecosystem.
Mid-Range PoE Camera Head to Head
Key Differences
Right off the bat, the Uniview camera is the better option for outdoor installations. This is simply due to the IP67-weathertight enclosure.
The Ubiquity camera is not as outdoor-friendly as it’s only got an IPX4-rated enclosure. However, it does have IK08 vandal resistance, just in case.
Also, the Uniview camera has better night vision performance. It can remain in color until illumination levels dip below 0.003 Lux. This is pretty impressive, especially compared to the Ubiquity camera.
However, the Ubiquity camera can carry out two-way communication. It adds an extra layer of deterrence and accessibility in certain situations.
Key Features in Common
Both cameras are IP-based devices. They strictly rely on PoE for power and data transmission.
The optical specs of both devices are also pretty much the same. They both rely on 4MP cameras recording at a maximum resolution of 2688x1520. However, the maximum frame rates can vary slightly.
PTZ Head to Head
Key Differences
In the third comparison, we have Uniview’s 5MP PTZ camera versus Ubiquiti’s 8MP PTZ camera (The Ubiquity G4).
The image resolution and post-processing specs are something of a mixed bag here, with the Ubiquiti counterpart utilizing an 8MP camera to record crisp 4K footage at 3840x2160 resolution and the Uniview camera using a 5MP sensor to record at 2880x1620. (A 2K-ish maximum resolution).
Nonetheless, the Uniview camera has better post-processing features thanks to 120dB True WDR. The Ubiquiti PTZ camera (despite being a more premium alternative) has only multi-exposure HDR sensors.
The Uniview camera can carry out full-color night vision (using low-light sensors), and it supports MicroSD cards, NAS, and FTP.
In terms of PTZ functions, the Ubiquiti device can carry out 22x optical zooming on top of 345°panning and 110° tilting. (The Uniview camera can only perform 4x optical zoom along with the usual PT)
Key Features in Common
Both PTZ cameras are IP-based devices that use PoE as the only means of power and data transmission. Apart from that, they both utilize a similar type of motorized lens.
Also, both enclosures are rated at IP66; hence, they can be easily set up for most outdoor applications, as long as the cameras do not get fully submerged in water or snow.
Fisheye Head to Head
Key Differences
Our final comparison is between fisheye lens-type security cameras of each brand, namely the Uniview 12MP fisheye lens VS Ubiquiti’s AI 360. (5MP fisheye lens camera.)
Right off the gate, the Uniview fisheye camera seems like the superior option with its 12MP sensor and 4000x3000, IP66 rated enclosure, and MicroSD card integration.
However, this Uniview camera is relatively more expensive than its Ubiquity counterpart. Primarily because it lacks several motion detection features such as heat mapping, people counting, and person and vehicle detection. (Which the Ubiquity camera readily supports as long as you’re setting it up within the UniFi ecosystem.)
Key Features in Common
In terms of similarities, there’s not a lot to go around. Both cameras are IP-based devices with PoE functionality. They have fixed-focus lenses and utilize the same digital WDR/HDR post-processing functions.
Apart from that, they support infrared night vision with varying IR distances. (The Uniview camera has a 10m IR distance while the Ubiquity device has a 100m IR range.)
The Uniview vs Ubiquiti Security Cameras (2024) - Verdict
So that is our comparison between Uniview and Ubiquity security camera brands. Despite having the same first letter, the differences between their security cameras are as clear as night and day.
We’d go with Uniview because of their high-end cameras, third-party support, and relatively affordable price tag. Because of these features, Uniview cameras are the best choice for residential and SMB-sized (small-medium business) customers.
On the other hand, Ubiquiti devices are designed for a completely different customer base. They are better suited for federal organizations and large businesses. (That would employ Ubiquity to develop not only their video surveillance system, but also their wired and wireless network infrastructure as well.)
So, do you agree with our decision? Let us know in the comments.