Eufy’s new security camera takes full-color, daylight-looking footage at night

If you use an outdoor security camera to keep an eye on a very dark area, a new option from Eufy promises to provide some of the best results ever. 

Most security cameras have low-light options that rely on IR (infrared radiation). Unfortunately, IR footage has that black-and-white ghostly feel (like the kind that might get you $100,000 from Ring), meaning you could miss important details. A built-in spotlight — which many cameras have — does allow for full-color recording, but it can be disruptive depending on your location.

Also: This $80 device may be the only indoor security camera you’ll need

The EufyCam S3 Pro introduces a feature called “MaxColor Vision” that, according to Eufy, takes full-color, daylight-looking footage even in pitch black. The tech works by using a 1/1.8-inch CMOS sensor and F1.0 aperture and then processing the image with artificial intelligence (AI). That combination allows you to see — and record — license plates and faces up to 30 feet away, Eufy claims 

Eufy is also touting new dual motion detection that uses radar and passive infrared to accurately record human activity and avoid false alerts, for example, from a tree blowing in the wind.

The EufyCam S3 Pro comes with 16GB of storage (no subscription needed), but you can expand it to 16TB depending on your needs. Since it’s completely wireless, it comes with a USB-rechargeable battery and solar panel. Eufy claims one hour of sunlight is enough to keep it charged for a full day. 

If you have other smart home devices, the S3 Pro works with Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and Apple HomeKit. 

The camera does have a built-in spotlight that can adapt automatically based on lighting conditions or can be adjusted manually as you’re viewing the livestream, but he spotlight isn’t needed to get the best low-light quality. 

The EufyCam S3 Pro is available starting with a two-camera bundle for $549.99.