Nowadays, it is very important to ensure security by using cameras outside the home. Xiaomi tries to make good things at low prices, so they have also made some cameras for outdoor security. Among them, the Xiaomi Outdoor Camera AW300 and CW300 are quite popular.
These cameras can record good videos, can see clearly even at night, and have many options for storing videos. However, there are some minor differences between them, which you will have to adjust according to your needs.
In this article, we will discuss the design of the AW300 and CW300 cameras, what are their advantages, how they work, and what are their prices. If you want to increase the security of your home or want to provide good surveillance for your business, then this information will help you choose the right camera.
Here we will talk about the differences and similarities between the AW300 and CW300. We will also tell you what are the advantages and disadvantages of which camera. After reading this article, you will understand which camera is better for you.
Xiaomi Outdoor Camera AW300 vs CW300 Specifications
| Feature | Xiaomi AW300 | Xiaomi CW300 |
|---|---|---|
| Resolution | 2304×1296 (2K, 3MP) | 2560 x 1440 (2.5K, 4MP) |
| Aperture | F2.0 | F1.6 |
| Field of View (FoV) | 101.7° (fixed) | 360° (PTZ, adjustable via smartphone) |
| Night Vision | 850nm IR ×2, LED spotlight ×2 (full-color) | 850nm IR ×2, White lights ×4 (full-color) |
| Dimensions | 173×70×75mm | 168 x 100 x 123mm |
| Weight | 249g | Not specified, but noted as large (492g with cable in reviews) |
| Storage | microSD (32GB-256GB) / Cloud (3-month free rolling, 9s alarm videos) | MicroSD (8GB-256GB) / Cloud (3-month, 7-day rolling, regional variations) |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 2.4GHz (up to 100m in open environment) | Wi-Fi 2.4GHz, Ethernet (wired option, specific cable requirements) |
| Operating Temperature | -30°C to 60°C (camera), -30°C to 45°C (adapter) | -30°C to 60°C (camera), -30°C to 45°C (adapter) |
| Smart Features | Focus Zone Setting, two-way voice intercom | AI Human Tracking, PTZ, two-way voice, Alexa/Google Assistant compatibility |
| Compatibility | Not explicitly stated, works with Mi Home/Xiaomi Home app | Android 8.0+, iOS 12.0+, Alexa, Google Assistant (regional limitations) |
| Additional | WDR Technology, split-screen viewing (up to 4 cameras), adjustable installation angles | Variable-speed playback, timeline slide, customizable sleep times, dual-motor gimbal |
Read More – Xiaomi C301 VS C300 Which is Better
Design and Dimensions: Xiaomi Outdoor Camera AW300 vs CW300
The design and size of the cameras used for outdoor security are very important. Because, depending on these, where the camera can be installed, how long it will last and how it will look. Xiaomi has made their AW300 and CW300 model cameras in different designs, so that they can be easily installed in different places and also look good.
Xiaomi Outdoor Camera AW300
The AW300 camera has a long and sleek design. Its dimensions are 173×70×75 millimeters. It is suitable for mounting under a wall or ceiling, as it does not look too big or strange. It weighs only 249 grams, so it is easy to install. Despite being light, it can adapt to the weather outside.
The AW300 is designed in such a way that it is not very noticeable. It is narrower (70 mm) and deeper (75 mm) than the CW300, which can easily blend in with the wall. This camera is good for those who do not like too conspicuous security equipment in their home. Because it is designed in such a way that it is not easily noticed by anyone.
Xiaomi Outdoor Camera CW300
On the other hand, the CW300 camera looks quite large and sturdy. Its size is 168×100×123 millimeters. Although it is slightly smaller than the AW300 (168 mm vs. 173 mm), the CW300 is quite wide (100 mm vs. 70 mm) and deep (123 mm vs. 75 mm). As a result, it is easily noticeable after mounting.
The larger size of the CW300 means that it may have some things inside that the AW300 does not. This may also lead to higher image capture capacity. The larger design allows it to work better in hot weather and provides more space for internal components.
However, the weight of the CW300 is not stated. So, it is not possible to say which camera will be easier to mount based on weight alone.
Read More – Xiaomi CW300 VS CW400 Which is Better Outdoor Camera
Design Comparison and Installation Considerations
The dimensional differences between these two models have practical implications for installation and use:
- Mounting Flexibility: Since the AW300 is light and small, it is easy to install in small spaces or narrow ceilings. The CW300 is a bit heavier, so it may require more space during installation.
- Visual Impact: The AW300’s light and thin design makes it good for homes. It is not easily noticeable. The CW300 looks quite large, so it will be more useful when installed in places like shops, because it shows that it is being monitored.
- Weather Resistance: Both cameras can work in temperatures from –30°C to 60°C. So, despite their small size, they can survive in bad weather.
- Aesthetic Considerations: Which of these cameras is better depends on your preference. The AW300 looks modern, while the CW300 looks like a regular camera.
The differences in the design of the AW300 and CW300 cameras show that Xiaomi has kept different types of users in mind. Everyone has different needs, so you can choose the camera that suits you.
Technical Features: Xiaomi Outdoor Camera AW300 vs CW300
The technology inside a camera used for outdoor security determines how well it works, how clear the image is, and how well it can be monitored. Xiaomi’s AW300 and CW300 cameras use different technologies, which are useful for different types of security.
Resolution and Image Quality
One of the most significant technical differences between these two models is their resolution capabilities:
Xiaomi Outdoor Camera AW300: The resolution of this camera is 2304×1296, which is slightly better than the usual 1080p Full HD. This resolution is sufficient for most home security. Through this, users can see clear images and details in the video are also easily noticed.
Xiaomi Outdoor Camera CW300: This camera offers 2560×1440 resolution, which is also known as Quad HD or 2K. Its resolution offers about 25% more pixels than the AW300. So the image is much clearer and details are better seen, especially when zoomed in.
The higher resolution of the CW300 is more useful for places where even small things need to be seen well, such as at the entrance to a place or where face recognition is needed.
Optical Features
Xiaomi Outdoor Camera AW300: The F2.0 aperture of this camera is quite good, which can capture enough light. Due to this, the camera works well not only at night, but also in low light. Due to its 101.7° field of view, it can easily capture a large area within the camera.
Xiaomi Outdoor Camera CW300: Unfortunately, nothing has been said about the aperture and field of view of the CW300 camera. So these features of this camera cannot be compared with the AW300.
Video Encoding
Both the AW300 and CW300 cameras use H.265 video coding. This modern technology has some advantages:
More video in less space: H.265 can store video in about 50% less space than the older H.264, but the image quality remains the same. As a result, videos can be stored in storage for a longer time.
Lower internet costs: This technology requires less internet to watch videos. This is very useful for those with low internet speeds.
Better pictures: Despite high compression, H.265 maintains good picture quality. So important things in the video are clearly visible.
The same video coding technology is used in both cameras. This means that Xiaomi believes that compression is very important for storing videos well. Because it is necessary to reduce storage and internet costs.
Night Vision Capabilities
Both cameras feature dual-technology night vision systems:
Xiaomi Outdoor Camera AW300:
This camera has two 850nm infrared (IR) lights and two LED spotlights. As a result, it can see well even in the dark at night. When any movement is detected, it can turn on the light and can also record video secretly without the light.
Xiaomi Outdoor Camera CW300:
This camera also has two similar 850nm infrared lights and two white lights. It also works like the AW300. It can see even in the dark at night and can turn on the light when necessary.
Both cameras use 850nm light, which is very good for security. This light provides good light for the camera sensor and is almost invisible to the human eye (a slight red glow may be visible when viewed directly).
Connectivity and Compatibility
Wireless Connection:
Both cameras have the same Wi-Fi connection, which supports the IEEE 802.11b/g/n standard in the 2.4GHz band. This provides a fairly good wireless connection. However, neither camera supports the 5GHz band.
Operating System:
The CW300 works well on Android 8.0 or iOS 12.0 or later versions. This means that it can be controlled well from a mobile phone using Xiaomi’s app. It is not said which operating system the AW300 will run on. However, since Xiaomi uses the same type of app, it is likely that it will also support the same platforms.
Storage Options
Both cameras offer flexible storage solutions:
Xiaomi Outdoor Camera AW300:
This camera can use microSD cards from 32 GB to 256 GB. It also has the option of cloud storage. However, for those who have a memory card of less than 32 GB, this can be a problem.
Xiaomi Outdoor Camera CW300:
This camera can use microSD cards from 8 GB to 256 GB. It also has the option of cloud storage. This is a benefit for those who have a small memory card.
Both cameras have the facility of cloud storage. As a result, the footage is protected even if the camera is stolen. However, for this, you usually have to pay for the service.
Performance: Xiaomi Outdoor Camera AW300 vs CW300
Selecting an outdoor security camera for purchase requires attentions beyond inspecting the camera’s parts. You need to observe both the operational mechanics and sustainability of the camera system along with its environmental adaptability.
Understanding the operative mechanisms of Xiaomi AW300 alongside CW300 alongside their suitability recommendations for potential users will be explored in this article.
Environmental Adaptability
AW300 and CW300 – Both of these cameras can easily adapt to the environment. They can work well in temperatures ranging from -30° Celsius to 60° Celsius. That means these cameras are suitable for almost all types of weather.
In our country, there is cold winter and very hot summer, these cameras will work well in both.
These cameras work well even at temperatures much higher than the temperatures we usually experience in our daily lives. This means that they have a very good cooling system and are made of materials that do not deteriorate easily. So it can be said that these cameras can work well all year round.
Image Quality Performance
Both cameras produce very clear images. However, there are some differences between them:
Daylight Capability: The CW300 camera has a higher resolution (2K) than the AW300. This means that the CW300 can capture more detail. For example, a person’s facial features or a car’s license plate can be seen clearly. If you want to zoom in on the image, the CW300 will do a better job.
Low Light Capability: The AW300 camera has a lens of F2.0, which helps in taking good pictures in low light. This results in good pictures even at night. Since there is no information about the lens of the CW300 camera, there is no comparison in this regard. However, the CW300 can also take good pictures due to its higher resolution.
Area Coverage: The AW300 camera can capture pictures at a wide angle of up to 101.7°. As a result, a lot of space can be covered with one camera. It is not known how much area the CW300 can cover. However, it is important to know, because it depends on where you place the camera and how much area it will cover.
Night Vision Effectiveness
Both cameras use 850nm infrared light and white LED light for night vision. Having these two lights provides many benefits for night surveillance:
Secret surveillance: Using infrared light allows the camera to take pictures in dark places without any light. As a result, no one will even know that they are being watched. The 850nm wavelength light works very well, and is almost invisible (a faint red glow may be visible from close range).
Light repelling: These cameras also have white light. When any movement is detected, these lights automatically turn on. As a result, those who trespass can be scared off. At the same time, normal infrared night vision only shows black and white images, but because of the use of white light, color images are also available.
Both cameras use the same type of night vision technology. So the ability to take pictures at night should be similar. However, because the CW300 has higher resolution, it will likely be able to provide clearer images at night, especially when white light is used.
Storage Efficiency
Both cameras use H.265 video coding, which helps keep the video file size small. This allows more video to be captured in less space. However, their different resolutions have some implications on storage:
Storage Usage: Due to the higher resolution of the CW300, it uses more space than the AW300. So, those who want to record videos for a longer period of time can benefit from using the AW300, as it uses less space.
Storage Benefits: The CW300 camera can use microSD cards ranging from 8GB to 256GB. On the other hand, the AW300 requires at least a 32GB card. Those who have a smaller memory card can use the CW300. Although most people now use larger memory cards.
Connectivity Performance
Both cameras use the same Wi-Fi. They support the IEEE 802.11b/g/n standard in the 2.4GHz band. This means that their wireless connections will be almost the same.
Range and Connection: The 2.4GHz frequency can connect well through walls. So there will be no problem even if the router is far away. However, other devices on this frequency may cause network problems.
Internet Speed: Due to the high resolution of the CW300, more speed will be required for live streaming. Those who have low internet speed or many devices connected to the Wi-Fi network may have problems using the CW300. There may be buffering or poor video quality while watching live video.
Both cameras do not support the 5GHz Wi-Fi band. So this is a disadvantage for those who have more problems with 2.4GHz.
Power Efficiency
Both cameras have a power input of 12V⎓1A, meaning that both cameras use the same amount of power. This will make it easier to set up or replace the cameras, as both have the same power adapter.
Although the CW300 has a higher resolution, it does not require a separate power supply. This means that both cameras use good components that can work well with less power.
Conclusion and Recommendations: Xiaomi Outdoor Camera AW300 vs CW300
After much discussion about the design, technical aspects, and performance of the Xiaomi AW300 and CW300 outdoor cameras, we can now come to a conclusion. This discussion will help you choose the right camera according to your needs.
Summary of Key Differences
Image clarity: The CW300 camera takes better images (2560×1440) than the AW300 (2304×1296). This means that the CW300 has about 25% more pixels, which makes the image much clearer. Especially when you want to zoom in and see something, the CW300 comes in very handy.
Design: The AW300 camera looks long and narrow (173×70×75 mm). On the other hand, the CW300 is small but wide (168×100×123 mm). For those who need to hide the camera, the AW300 may be better.
How much area does it cover: The AW300 camera can take images up to 101.7°. The CW300’s field of view is not known.
Storage: The CW300 camera can be installed with a memory card from 8GB to 256GB. But the AW300 camera requires a 32GB to 256GB memory card. So those who have old small memory cards can use the CW300.
Lens: The AW300 camera lens is F2.0, which takes good pictures in low light. Nothing is known about the lens of the CW300 camera.
Similarities Worth Noting
Despite their differences, both cameras share several important features:
- Both can operate in temperatures ranging from -30°C to 60°C.
- Both cameras require the same power (12V⎓1A).
- Both use the same wireless connection (Wi-Fi IEEE 802.11b/g/n 2.4GHz).
- Both cameras have the same type of infrared light (850nm) and LED spotlight for night vision.
- Both cameras use H.265 video coding, which allows for more video to be captured in less space.
- Both have the convenience of memory cards (microSD) and cloud storage.
Recommendations Based on Use Cases
For Maximum Image Detail: If image detail is most important to you, then the CW300 camera is the best. The image is much clearer due to its high resolution. This camera is very useful for seeing faces, license plates, or small objects well.
- It is very useful for business security.
- It is very useful for keeping an eye on entrances.
- It is good for zooming in on large areas.
For Discreet Home Security: Those who want the camera to be less noticeable: The AW300 camera is slim, so it is not easily noticeable. So it looks good. It is good for those who need a hidden camera. In addition, it maintains a good balance between image quality and storage.
- This camera is good for home security.
- Good for installing in places where you do not want the camera to be too noticeable.
- Where the camera needs to blend in with the surroundings.
For Wide-Area Monitoring: The AW300 camera can capture images covering an area of up to 101.7°. So it can cover a lot of space at once.
- It can cover large areas like courtyards or streets well.
- It is best for covering more space using fewer cameras.
- Where you don’t need a lot of detail, but want to see the whole area.
For Budget-Conscious Users: Although nothing has been said about the price, the AW300 camera is likely to be cheaper than the CW300. For those with low internet speeds, the AW300 is better because it uses less bandwidth.
For Users with Existing Storage: The CW300 is better for those with older memory cards. Because it also supports smaller memory cards.
Final Verdict
Xiaomi Outdoor Camera AW300 and CW300 are both great cameras. They are very useful for your outdoor security. But which one is better for you depends on a few things.
Choose the CW300 if:
- You want to watch clear videos.
- It takes more space to store a lot of videos.
- Don’t have a problem with a big camera.
- Want to get something better in the future.
Choose the AW300 if:
- You like small and beautiful looking cameras.
- Want to record videos in a large area.
- Want to store videos at a low cost.
- Want something nice and simple to look at.
Both cameras shoot good videos and can see clearly even at night. They don’t get damaged even in rain. If you want very clear images, then CW300 is better. And if you want a small but functional camera, then you can get AW300. Xiaomi always makes good things, so whichever one you get will be good.
