The Ubiquiti UniFi G4 Instant is a compact WiFi-connected security camera for the UniFi Protect platform. It records 2K video, supports smart detection of people, vehicles and animals, includes infrared night vision and provides two-way audio through the UniFi Protect mobile app.

The manufacturer model and part number is UVC-G4-INS. The UPC is 810010078605. Use the exact model number when checking accessories, firmware support or compatibility with a UniFi Protect console.

It has a 5MP CMOS image sensor, but its maximum video stream and recording resolution is 2688 × 1512 pixels, which is approximately 4MP. The most accurate description is therefore a 2K 4MP video camera with a 5MP sensor.

The maximum video resolution is 2688 × 1512 pixels in a 16:9 widescreen format. Ubiquiti classifies this as 2K video.

The camera records at up to 30 frames per second. The selected stream quality, network condition and Protect configuration can affect the frame rate seen during live viewing or playback.

No. Its maximum recorded output is 2688 × 1512, not 3840 × 2160 4K. Buyers needing 4K WiFi video should compare the newer UniFi G6 Instant.

It uses a fixed-focus lens with a 2.8mm equivalent focal length and an f/1.6 aperture. The fixed lens provides a wide scene rather than optical zoom.

The official field of view is approximately 102.4° horizontal, 54.9° vertical and 120.6° diagonal. This is suitable for monitoring rooms, entrances, driveways, gardens and other broad areas.

No. It is a fixed-position camera and does not contain a motorised pan-and-tilt mechanism. Aim the camera manually during installation.

No. The G4 Instant has a fixed lens without optical zoom. Digital enlargement may be available in the viewing interface, but it cannot add detail that was not captured in the original image.

Not for its normal supported operation. It is designed to be adopted and managed by a compatible UniFi Console or network video recorder running UniFi Protect.

Yes. UniFi Protect is required for normal setup, management, recording, detections, playback and camera settings. The camera is not intended to replace a standalone cloud camera that works only through its own app.

Compatible options include selected UniFi Cloud Gateways, CloudKey+ models and UniFi Network Video Recorders that support the Protect application and suitable storage. Check the current Protect compatibility and camera-capacity information for the exact console.

No. A Dream Machine Pro is one compatible option, but it is not the only choice. Other compatible Protect hosts include selected Cloud Gateways, CloudKey+ units and UniFi NVR products.

You need a compatible host running UniFi Protect, but it does not have to be a rack-mounted UNVR. A supported Cloud Gateway or CloudKey+ with appropriate storage may also be suitable for a smaller installation.

A UniFi gateway is not strictly required for the camera's WiFi connection, because the G4 Instant can be configured on a compatible third-party WiFi network. A supported UniFi Protect host is still required.

No. Ubiquiti allows third-party WiFi configuration during setup. However, the access point must provide a reliable connection and permit communication between the camera and the Protect host.

Yes. UniFi Protect is designed around local recording to the storage installed in your Protect console or NVR. Optional cloud archiving may be available, but it is not required for normal local recording.

Core local recording and management on a customer-owned UniFi Protect system does not normally require a per-camera cloud subscription. Optional services, third-party storage or cloud archiving may have separate costs.

Recordings are stored on the compatible UniFi Protect console or NVR, not inside the camera. Storage location and retention depend on the host model, installed drive capacity, recording mode and video settings.

No. The G4 Instant does not include a microSD slot. A memory card cannot be inserted into the camera for local recording.

Yes. UniFi Protect supports an Always recording mode for continuous coverage, provided the Protect host has suitable storage and the camera maintains power and network connectivity.

Yes. Protect offers Detection Only recording to reduce storage use, as well as Always and Never modes. Recording schedules can also be configured according to the current Protect software options.

Retention depends on the storage capacity, number and resolution of cameras, recording quality, scene activity and whether continuous or detection-only recording is selected. Use the UniFi capacity tools and Protect storage estimates for the planned system.

Yes. UniFi Protect allows authorised users to export selected clips for evidence, support cases or sharing. Available export and archive options depend on the current Protect version and user permissions.

Current UniFi Protect versions can support external archiving workflows, but the primary recorder remains the Protect host. Do not assume that a basic NAS can replace the required Protect console for adoption and management.

Local recording can continue when the camera, local network and Protect host remain powered and connected. Remote viewing, off-site notifications and cloud-dependent functions may be unavailable until internet access returns.

The camera cannot send live video to the Protect recorder while its WiFi link is down. This can create gaps in recordings, so stable wireless coverage is essential for security use.

The G4 Instant has no internal recording storage, so normal recording stops when the Protect host is unavailable. Restore the console, storage and network connection as soon as possible.

A supported deployment may be possible with advanced networking, but the normal design is for the camera and Protect host to communicate reliably on the same managed site. For remote sites, using a local Protect host is generally more dependable.

Yes. Its 802.11 b/g/n support covers compatible 2.4GHz WiFi networks. The 2.4GHz band can provide longer range through walls but may have more interference.

Yes. Its 802.11 a/n/ac support covers compatible 5GHz networks. The 5GHz band can provide greater capacity and less congestion but normally has shorter range through walls.

Yes. The listed 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac wireless interface supports compatible 2.4GHz and 5GHz WiFi connections.

Yes. Ubiquiti states that third-party WiFi can be configured during setup through the UniFi Protect mobile app. The Protect console must still be reachable from that network.

No. Bluetooth is used to assist discovery and initial setup. Live video and recordings travel over WiFi or through the optional wired PoE-to-USB-C adapter.

There is no single signal number that guarantees performance in every environment. Test live view and continuous recording at the final position, avoid marginal coverage and use the Protect connectivity information to identify packet loss or poor signal.

Yes, provided the extender or mesh link is stable and has enough upstream capacity. A weak or heavily meshed backhaul can cause delayed live view, lower image quality or recording gaps.

Only if that network allows the camera to communicate with the Protect host and required services. Many guest networks isolate clients, which can prevent adoption or recording.

Yes, in an advanced network with the necessary routing and firewall rules. For easiest adoption, Ubiquiti recommends that Protect cameras and a CloudKey or NVR be on the same VLAN. Incorrect isolation rules can leave the camera offline.

Each camera continuously sends video upstream when recording. Multiple cameras can use significant wireless airtime, especially at high quality. Plan access-point coverage and host capacity rather than treating the camera count as unlimited.

The number depends on the exact console and the mix of HD, 2K and 4K cameras. Protect displays a capacity estimate and warns when the recommended limit is being exceeded. Count the G4 Instant as a 2K camera.

No. The camera body does not contain a standard RJ45 Ethernet socket. It normally connects through WiFi and receives power through USB-C.

Yes. Ubiquiti's optional PoE to USB-C Adapter and the compatible Instant Camera PoE-to-USB-C cable can transform the G4 Instant into a wired PoE camera with network data and power.

No. The standard camera package includes the USB power equipment, not the optional PoE-to-USB-C conversion adapter. Check the accessory package carefully because the compatible data cable may also be sold separately.

No. The camera has no RJ45 port. Ethernet must connect to the compatible optional PoE-to-USB-C adapter, which then connects to the camera using the correct data-capable USB-C cable.

A generic splitter is not recommended. Use the Ubiquiti adapter and compatible cable specified for the G4 Instant to provide the correct voltage, power and wired data connection.

It is powered by the included 5V DC, 2A USB power adapter and USB-C-to-USB-C cable. The camera's maximum listed power consumption is 6W.

The official requirement is 5V DC at up to 2A. Use the supplied power equipment or a fully compatible approved replacement.

The included USB-C-to-USB-C cable is approximately 2 metres long. Measure the route from the camera to a safe indoor or weather-protected socket before mounting.

A suitable longer cable may work, but excessive length or thin conductors can cause voltage drop and unreliable restarts. Ubiquiti offers compatible longer camera cables for supported PoE-adapter installations.

A reputable regulated 5V, 2A supply may work, but the included adapter is the recommended option. Avoid chargers or cables that cannot maintain the required voltage during continuous operation.

It may power on from a suitable bank, but power banks are not designed as a dependable permanent security-camera supply and may switch off at low load or require recharging. Use fixed power or a properly sized UPS for security use.

There is no official solar kit for the G4 Instant. A custom battery and solar system would need stable regulated 5V power and enough capacity for continuous operation, and it would remain an unsupported installation.

Yes. Connect the camera power adapter, WiFi access point and Protect console to appropriately sized UPS equipment. Backing up only the camera will not preserve recording if the network or recorder loses power.

The official maximum power consumption is 6W. Actual consumption can vary with infrared night vision, audio, processing and network activity.

Yes. Its compact stand allows it to be placed on a stable flat surface. Position it where the lens, ventilation and cable are not obstructed and where it cannot be easily knocked over.

Yes. A wall-mount accessory and mounting hardware are included. Check the surface, use suitable fixings and test the view and WiFi connection before drilling.

A ceiling installation may be possible with a secure compatible mounting arrangement, but the supplied accessory is officially described as a wall mount. Confirm that the camera can be aimed safely and that the cable cannot pull it loose.

The camera measures approximately 81.6 × 50 × 47.2mm, making it compact enough for shelves, entrances and discreet indoor or sheltered outdoor positions.

It weighs approximately 125g without the mount and 163g with the mount. The mounting surface and fixings must still be secure.

The camera and mount use polycarbonate construction. It is lightweight and weather resistant, but it is not a heavy metal vandal-resistant camera.

The built-in infrared night-vision range is rated at up to approximately 6 metres or 20 feet. Actual usable detail depends on the scene, mounting angle, reflective surfaces and ambient light.

Yes. It includes an infrared LED and an automatic IR-cut filter for day and night operation.

It does not include a built-in white spotlight for guaranteed full-colour night recording. It may remain in colour where enough ambient light is available, otherwise it normally switches to infrared monochrome mode.

Infrared light commonly reflects from glass and can obscure the view. For monitoring through a window, disable IR and provide exterior lighting, or install the camera outside in a suitable protected position.

Nearby walls, soffits, glass, dust, insects or protective covers can reflect infrared light back into the lens. Reposition the camera, clean the lens and keep reflective objects outside the immediate field of view.

No security camera can guarantee identification at every distance or angle. The wide lens prioritises coverage, so face detail decreases as the subject moves farther away or lighting worsens.

It is not a dedicated license-plate camera and cannot guarantee readable plates, especially at night, at an angle or on moving vehicles. Use a purpose-designed LPR camera for that requirement.

Yes. Official image controls include colour, brightness, sharpness, contrast, white balance and exposure, along with noise-reduction, masking and text-overlay options.

Protect supports text-overlay settings on the camera stream. The exact overlay options depend on the current application and firmware version.

The G4 Instant supports native smart detection of people, vehicles and animals. Configure smart-detection zones and notifications in UniFi Protect.

Package detection is not listed as a native G4 Instant detection category. It may still record motion near a delivery area, but buyers specifically requiring package classification should check a current compatible doorbell or camera model.

The G4 Instant does not provide the full native facial-recognition feature set of current AI or G6 cameras. Current Protect systems may add advanced functions to G4 and G5 cameras through optional AI hardware, subject to software compatibility.

Yes. Vehicle detection is included among the G4 Instant's native smart-detection categories. Correct camera angle, zone placement and adequate subject size improve results.

Yes. Animal detection is officially listed. Detection accuracy can vary with distance, lighting, animal size, obstructions and current firmware.

Yes. Protect can create general motion events and smart-object detections. Motion zones and sensitivity can be adjusted to suit the scene.

Yes. Motion zones restrict event detection to selected areas of the image, helping reduce alerts from irrelevant movement.

Yes. Smart zones define where compatible AI detections should be generated. Exclusion areas can be used to ignore roads, trees or other sources of unwanted events.

Yes. Privacy zones black out selected parts of the image so those areas are not recorded. This can help avoid filming neighbouring property or sensitive interior areas.

Yes. Adjust motion sensitivity, smart zones and exclusion zones so moving foliage, reflections or public roads do not dominate notifications. Camera placement is as important as software settings.

Current UniFi Protect versions support line-crossing features on compatible G4 and G5 cameras. Availability and options depend on the installed Protect and camera firmware versions.

Yes. UniFi Protect and Alarm Manager can send authorised users notifications based on motion, smart detections, device status and other configured conditions.

Yes. Protect supports user accounts, permissions and configurable alarms. Access should be limited to the cameras and functions each person needs.

Yes. It has a built-in microphone for recorded audio and two-way communication, subject to the selected settings and local law.

Yes. A built-in speaker allows two-way audio through the UniFi Protect mobile app.

Open the G4 Instant in the UniFi Protect mobile app, select the microphone control and speak through the phone. App microphone permission, network latency and speaker volume can affect performance.

Audio settings can be controlled in UniFi Protect according to the current firmware and user permissions. Disable recording where audio capture is not needed or legally permitted.

Ubiquiti lists a speaker for two-way audio but does not advertise the G4 Instant as a dedicated high-output security siren. Do not buy it as a replacement for a separate alarm sounder.

Yes, within the limits of its IPX5 weatherproof rating and operating range. A sheltered position is preferable, and the USB connection, cable route and power adapter must be protected appropriately.

IPX5 indicates resistance to water jets under the test standard. It does not mean the camera is submersible, pressure-wash safe or protected against every long-term outdoor condition.

A sheltered position reduces direct rain, sun, snow and contamination and also makes it easier to protect the power connection. Many users choose an under-eave installation for this reason.

The camera has an IPX5 rating, but the included wall power adapter should be kept in a dry, suitable electrical location. Do not leave an indoor adapter or socket exposed to rain.

The official operating-temperature range is -20°C to 40°C. Direct sunlight, enclosed boxes and nearby heat sources can raise the actual camera temperature above the surrounding air.

The listed operating humidity is 0-90% non-condensing. Condensation inside or around the connection can cause image and reliability problems.

IK04 provides limited resistance to mechanical impact. It is not a high-vandal-resistance rating, so the camera should be mounted out of easy reach when tampering is a concern.

No. Never submerge the camera or expose it to flooding, pressure washing or standing water.

Yes. Ubiquiti sells an optional rubber cover in several colours for the G4 Instant. It can change the appearance and add surface protection, but it does not remove the need to protect the power equipment and follow the IPX5 limits.

Salt spray, wind-driven rain and corrosion create a harsher environment than the basic IPX5 test. Use a more robust outdoor camera or a carefully protected installation for exposed coastal locations.

Recordings are stored locally on the customer-controlled Protect host by default. Remote client connections are encrypted, and compatible G4 cameras can use stream encryption between the camera and console in supported Protect versions.

Ubiquiti states that Protect recordings remain on the local console and that it cannot view, store or access the video stream when the secure remote connection is established. Optional external archiving should be assessed separately.

Previously transmitted footage remains on the Protect host, including events recorded before the camera was disconnected. The G4 Instant itself contains no microSD recording that can be removed with the camera.

Yes. Use individual UniFi accounts and Protect roles rather than sharing one administrator login. Grant only the live-view, playback, export or management permissions each user requires.

A UniFi Protect host can expose outgoing RTSP or encrypted RTSPS streams for compatible integrations. The stream is normally generated through Protect rather than treating the G4 Instant as an independent standalone RTSP camera.

Native standalone ONVIF support is not listed for the G4 Instant. Third-party systems normally consume a stream provided by UniFi Protect or use a supported integration rather than adopting the camera directly through ONVIF.

Yes. Home Assistant provides an official UniFi Protect integration for supported UniFi OS consoles. It can expose camera feeds, detection events and other entities, subject to current Protect and Home Assistant version requirements.

Native Apple HomeKit support is not listed. Advanced users sometimes use a third-party bridge such as Homebridge or Scrypted, but those setups are not the same as official native support and can require maintenance.

Native Alexa and Google Home support is not listed as a core G4 Instant feature. Third-party home-automation integrations may be possible, but buyers should not assume plug-and-play smart-display compatibility.

A compatible RTSP or RTSPS stream can be enabled through the Protect host and opened in suitable software. Keep streams on a trusted network and avoid exposing an unauthenticated RTSP port directly to the internet.

A third-party recorder may be able to consume a stream exported by UniFi Protect, but the G4 Instant still requires its Protect host for supported adoption and management. Confirm the current third-party software and codec requirements.

Set up the compatible Protect console, install the UniFi Protect mobile app, connect the phone to the intended network, enable Bluetooth and follow the adoption prompts. Test the camera before permanently mounting it.

Confirm power, update the Protect app, enable Bluetooth and local-network permissions, place the phone and camera near the access point, verify that the Protect host is running and ensure the network or VLAN is not blocking device discovery.

Keep the camera powered and use the physical reset button according to the current Ubiquiti installation guide. A reset removes the previous adoption state and network configuration, so the camera must be adopted again.

Check the 5V power supply and cable, WiFi signal, access-point load, channel interference, VLAN rules, DHCP service and Protect console health. Test the camera closer to the access point to separate a range problem from a hardware problem.

Delay can come from weak WiFi, a mesh backhaul, remote internet latency, phone decoding, an overloaded Protect host or high-quality streaming. Compare local and remote viewing and check the connectivity and storage-health information.

Check the selected quality and bitrate, clean the lens, improve lighting and WiFi stability, and confirm the Protect host is not overloaded. Fast movement and low light can reduce detail even at the maximum resolution.

Common causes include WiFi disconnections, power interruptions, Protect service restarts, storage faults, a full or unhealthy drive and exceeding the console's recommended camera capacity. Review device and system logs.

Check microphone permission on the phone, camera audio settings, app and firmware updates, speaker volume and network delay. Rebooting the camera and Protect host can help after a temporary audio-service fault.

Lighting near the switching threshold can cause repeated changes. Adjust the night-mode settings, remove flashing or reflective light sources and avoid pointing the camera at a bright window while the room remains dark.

Firmware is managed through UniFi Protect according to the console's update settings. Review release notes and keep the camera and Protect application on compatible stable versions.

Yes. Ubiquiti lists the G4 Instant as NDAA compliant. Buyers with regulated procurement requirements should still verify the complete system, current documentation and organisational policy.

The package includes the G4 Instant camera, stand or wall-mount components, mounting hardware, a 2-metre USB-C-to-USB-C cable, a 5V 2A USB power adapter and installation documentation. The Protect console and optional PoE conversion accessories are not included.

No. The camera package does not include a Protect console, hard drive, SSD or NVR storage. Storage must be provided by the selected UniFi Protect host.

The G4 Instant increases maximum video output to 2K and adds native smart detections for people, vehicles and animals. The older G3 Instant is a lower-resolution entry model and relies more heavily on basic motion detection unless optional AI hardware is added.

Choose the G4 Instant for a lower-cost 2K camera with native object detection and two-way audio. Choose the G6 Instant when 4K 8MP video, a wider 134.1° diagonal view, HDR and newer AI hardware are worth the higher price and increased storage demand.

The G4 Instant suits positions where WiFi and USB power are easier and two-way audio is useful. The G5 Flex is a wired PoE 2K camera that avoids WiFi airtime and can be preferable where Ethernet cabling is available.

The G4 Instant is easier where Ethernet cannot be run. A dedicated PoE bullet or turret camera normally provides a more robust wired connection and may offer stronger outdoor mounting, longer night range or improved vandal resistance.

It remains a useful affordable 2K expansion camera for an existing UniFi Protect system, especially where WiFi is necessary. Buyers starting a premium installation should also compare the 4K G6 Instant and wired G5 or G6 alternatives.

It is best for homes, offices and small businesses that already own or plan to install UniFi Protect and need a compact WiFi camera for a room, entrance, sheltered outdoor area, pet space, reception or location where Ethernet is inconvenient.

It is not suitable for buyers wanting a completely standalone app camera, microSD recording, guaranteed 4K detail, motorised pan-and-tilt, long-range infrared, native HomeKit, exposed high-vandal locations or operation without a compatible UniFi Protect host.