Aqara's Camera E1 is a new addition to the smart home camera space, offering a range of key features including 2K resolution, pan and tilt, support for HomeKit Secure Video and more. The Camera E1 emerges as a notable option in Aqara's range of smart home cameras, especially for those looking for a balance between functionality and affordability. At $59.99, this camera positions itself in a competitive spot in the market, especially for a device with 2K resolution, pan and tilt, and HomeKit Secure Video support.

The Aqara Camera E1 has a sleek and modern design. Its compact form factor makes it suitable for various placements in the home. Whether the camera is placed on a shelf or mounted on the wall, it can be easily adjusted to capture the image you want. The camera has a privacy mode, which physically points the camera lens away from the viewing area. This design choice reassures users with the visible action – a clear indication that the camera is not recording or monitoring.

Setting up the Aqara Camera E1 with Apple HomeKit is easy. Once the Camera E1 is turned on and placed in its intended location, setup will begin by scanning the HomeKit setup code found on the camera, just like many other smart home accessories. This can be done directly through the Home app by tapping 'Add Accessory' and using the iOS device's camera to scan the code. Once the camera is recognized by the Home app, you will be asked to assign the camera to a room and give it a name.

The camera has 2K video resolution, which delivers exceptionally clear and detailed images and stands out from many HomeKit-enabled cameras that only offer 1080p. The Camera E1 is also equipped with hidden infrared night vision. The invisible infrared LEDs allow the camera to capture clear images even in low light without the noticeable glow often associated with night vision cameras.

The Camera E1 supports HomeKit Secure Video, allowing it to detect various types of movements, such as people, animals and vehicles, and store the recorded footage securely in iCloud. Users can tailor notifications to their preferences based on the type of motion detected. The Camera E1 seems to have a very stable network connection and good stream quality.

Overall, Aqara's Camera E1 is an attractive HomeKit-enabled smart home camera at an affordable price. With its 2K resolution, pan and tilt, the ability to physically reorient for privacy, reliable network connectivity, and support for HomeKit Secure Video, the Camera E1 is a robust addition to any smart home setup. The Aqara Camera E1 is available from Amazon in North America and Europe, as well as select Aqara retailers worldwide, for $59.99. Note: Aqara provided MacRumors with a Camera E1 for this review. No other compensation was received.