Kuna Camera Review: Innovative Equals Quality?

This company is known for its innovative features, like its use of AI technology and night vision. Also, there are positive comments regarding how its plans do not require contracts and are affordable when compared to market standards. But still, is this brand good enough to compete against other big names in the home security niche? Read this Kuna camera review to find out.

Brad Smith - Editorial Staff

Updated: November 17, 2020

Kuna Security Camera: In-Depth

To get a detailed idea of how this system works, we studied plenty of reviews from people who had bought a Kuna security camera. One of the most important aspects we considered were the functions that this brand includes, like its motion and light sensors, image resolution, and innovative tech.

Key Features: The Main Points to Know

  • App-based system
  • Self-monitored
  • 60-day money-back guarantee
  • AI technology
  • Smarthome integration
  • Many security lighting options

Background Information

Kuna Background Information

This company was founded in 2012 by Sai-Wai Fu. He claims to have done this because a personal experience showed him how taking preventive measures could help protect a home.

The Kuna security camera is characterized by its affordable plans and DIY setup and monitoring. People can choose to keep an eye on the house without having to pay for pro service too.

 

Features: Covers All the Basics

The brand includes all the basic functions for maximum safety in its cameras. It stands out for its hardwired setup and easy installation. Yet, it does not include some of the more advanced functions available in 2021.

Surveillance Cameras: See All That Happens

This brand includes in its catalog the Toucan Surveillance Kit, which is a set of cams to keep an eye on the home. It uses a USB cord to connect to some lights. In this way, they light up when necessary to provide a better picture of what is going on.

Mobile Alerts: Anywhere, Anytime

Kuna Mobile Alerts

This whole system relies on the app. Every time one of the gadgets detects something, like a new package at the porch, it will send an alert to the user’s phone or tablet. For this to work well, having a strong internet connection is essential. In this way, people will be able to make an informed decision on the spot.

24/7 Monitoring: Be Safe at All Times

The surveillance team works all day to ensure maximum safety. Yet, how much they check will depend on the type of plan that the client gets.

Hardwired Security: Is It Really More Difficult?

This system requires the equipment to be hardwired into the house, instead of using wireless technology. This means that installation will be a bit more difficult than with other systems, but it will provide one more level of security. And still, the whole process has been simplified so that anyone can do it.

DIY Installation: No Pros Required

Kuna DIY Installation

This provider made sure that anyone could install their system. This is why they do not offer any type of technician to go and do it. Clients can set everything up pretty fast.

Voice Response

Kuna Voice Response

The brand offers a quite advanced tool that can communicate with people. For starters, one can choose an automated greeting in case someone arrives home. And it is also possible to communicate with visitors thanks to the two-way audio function.

Equipment & Installation

This company has created lots of gadgets to prevent break-ins and robberies. And the best devices for this are lights and cams. But that is not all. They offer a wide catalog of smart capabilities coupled with solid hardware to make these tools survive any kind of situation and still deliver. To know in detail what each of them offers and how to set them up, read on.

Maximus Answer Dual Cam Video Doorbell: No Surprises at the Door

Kuna Maximus Answer Dual Cam Video Doorbell

This doorbell camera is one of the first to come with dual cams. One of them is of higher resolution than the other. Thanks to this arrangement, the device can capture everything that is going on at the porch.

  • IPX4 certification of weather resistance
  • 20-lumen brightness
  • 1080p and 720p cams
  • 180° field of view
  • Hardwired
  • No batteries
  • DIY setup

Its ample field of view means that people will now be able to see more and eliminate blind spots. In this way, one will be able to see all the packages on the porch. This Kuna outdoor home security camera is able to withstand all types of storms and weather conditions thanks to its IPX4 certification.

Pros:

  • No blind spots
  • Water and dust resistant
  • High resolution
  • Pre-roll footage of 10 seconds
  • Two-way talk for fast communication

Cons:

  • Harder to install than wireless devices
  • The light could be brighter

The Maximus Smart Security Light: Safe Nights Easily

Kuna The Maximus Smart Security Light

This Kuna light has a cam right under the bulb. In this way, it can record who comes and goes at any hour of the day without losing any details. It is ideal to be placed in front of the porch, for example. By doing so, it illuminates the area to prevent any possible break-ins from happening.

  • IP43 rating
  • Hardwired
  • No batteries
  • Anti-glare lens
  • Two-way audio

This device comes with a special lens that prevents the glare of the light affecting the image quality. In this way, night recordings are done in color and with a high level of detail. It is also prepared to withstand freezing and scorching temperatures, as well as water, wind, and dust.

Pros:

  • Prepared for harsh weather
  • The high-quality image at night
  • No glare in the footage
  • Easy to communicate
  • Efficient energy system

Cons:

  • Installation may be harder than with other systems
  • Some tools are not included

The Maximus Camera Floodlight: Maximum Brightness

Kuna The Maximus Camera Floodlight

This Kuna light is a premium device that brings security. Its floodlight illuminates large areas. And when combined with its high-definition camera, it records up to the last detail, even at night. It is ideal for those with large backyards or front gardens.

  • 1080p video
  • 270-degree detection
  • 155° wide-angle view
  • 70-foot range
  • 2400-lumen floodlight
  • Integration with Alexa
  • UL wet location compliant

This cam is totally weather-proof for snow, rain, and humidity, allowing it to survive outdoors easily. Its ample detection area means that any movement happening across the garden will trigger it to ensure maximum safety. And it is also compatible with Alexa to make the most out of its smart capabilities.

Pros:

  • Super-bright bulb
  • Tracks large areas
  • High-quality night footage
  • Smart features available
  • Weatherproof

Cons:

  • Not particularly resistant to dust
  • Rather pricey

Toucan Surveillance Kit: High-Level Security

This Kuna outdoor home security camera is an affordable option for those who already have a light installed. It can be added simply to any existing system to record any type of activity. The best part is that it is compatible with practically any type of bulb.

  • Toucan Smart Socket
  • IP43 Rating
  • Compatible with any LED, CFL, or incandescent bulb up to 40W
  • HD color 720p H.264
  • 116° field of view
  • Detection up to 10 feet away
  • Light sensor
  • Motion sensor
  • 28-bit AES encryption
  • SSL encryption

The whole setup process is as easy as screwing in a light bulb thanks to the smart socket. And this cam can withstand harsh weather conditions as well as its more expensive cousins.

Pros:

  • Works with almost any bulb
  • Automatic dusk-to-dawn setting
  • Captures color footage at night
  • Super easy setup
  • Bank-level encryption

Cons:

  • Short detection range
  • Not the best image quality

Kuna Premium: An Option for Every Budget

Kuna Premium

This service refers to the premium plans that this brand has to offer. There are two main options. One of them is “Essential Security”, and the most advanced one is “Peace of Mind”. What varies between them is the number of cameras they support and the amount of info they allow storing.

  • Look back
  • Unlimited downloads
  • Theft protection
  • Access to AI tech
  • Custom greetings
  • Discounts in future purchases

The essential plan supports only one cam and allows users to see only what happened 7 days back. It costs $4.99 per month if billed annually and includes a 5% off of other products. The Peace of Mind option supports up to 4 cameras and lets people check 14 days back for $9.99 monthly. It gives a 10% discount to users who want more gadgets.

Pros:

  • Options for every budget
  • Discounts for an upfront annual payment
  • Advanced AI tech
  • Protects devices against thieves
  • Ideal for self-monitoring

Cons:

  • A limited number of supported cameras
  • Could give access to footage from further back

Installation

The whole setup process can be done by the client. Being comfortable working electrical installations may come in handy, though. This is so because the system is hardwired, which means that it has to be connected to wires inside the wall, instead of just using Bluetooth to set it up, for example.

So, though it is a DIY installation, some people may want to get the help of an electrician or handyman. In spite of this, the company claims that the whole process should not last more than 15 minutes, and that is true. And with the help of the documentation provided inside the box and some tools, it is not that hard.

 

Kuna Price & Packages

Kuna Price & Packages

There are two main aspects to bear in mind when considering this brand’s prices. The first one is its plans. They are not compulsory at all. There are no contracts involved. So, users can decide when they want to activate them. When no plan is enforced, people can still access some basic functions. And if they want, it is possible to pay for the whole year upfront and receive a 33% discount.

The second aspect concerns the hardware. The cams and lights that this company offers have variable prices depending on how much tech they include. Also, some of them are only complimentary of other gadgets. These are usually cheaper. To understand how the pricing system works, read on.

Table of Comparison: Each Plan Explained

This brand offers three main plans for its users to choose from. Remember that there is a free option with live video, but without these functions. The main difference between the packages lies in how many cams they support and for how long they store the data. To get a clear picture of which is the best for each client, read on.

Essential Securit Peace of Mind Absolute Control
Price per month$7.49$14.99$29.99
Annual price$59.88$119.88$239.88
Number of cams148
Days of Look Back71430
DownloadsUnlimitedUnlimitedUnlimited
Theft ProtectionYesYesYes
AIYesYesYes
Custom GreetingsYesYesYes
Discounts in future purchases5%10%15%
14-day trialNoYesNo
Discount for upfront payment33%33%33%
Smart alertsYesYesYes
ContractsNoNoNo
Custom equipmentYesYesYes

Essential Security

This brand’s basic plan is known for its super affordable pricing, which gets even lower if one pays the annual subscription. In this case, it ends up costing a meager $4.99 per month. It is ideal for those who want to get a taste of what this company has to offer.

This plan includes 5% discounts on future purchases of cams and allows users to see what happened up to 7 days back. It also includes all the same features that the more expensive options offer. But, on the negative side, it only supports one camera at a time.

Pros:

  • Low cost per month
  • Includes almost all the features
  • Smart notifications available
  • Users choose the equipment
  • Unlimited downloads

Cons:

  • A limited number of cams
  • Only 7 days of look back

Peace of Mind

This plan offers the right mix between price and quality. Users can store the info of up to 4 cameras for 3 weeks. And it only costs them $9.99 per month if they pay the whole year upfront. This is why the camera highlights it as its recommended option.

It is a great option for those who are committed to the security of their homes and are already invested in this brand’s ecosystem. For example, those who have a cam in each of their doors will be able to make the most out of this plan.

Pros:

  • 14-day trial
  • Good balance of price and features
  • 14 days of look back
  • 10% off for new products
  • Discounts for upfront payment

Cons:

  • May not be enough for power users
  • Not the best options for those who have many systems

Absolute Control

This plan was designed for those who are heavily invested in the ecosystem and have one of these company’s cams on every door and window. They are the ones who will be able to make the most out of the 8 cameras that this plan supports.

It has the same features as the previous two plans, but it stores all the footage for up to 30 days, which should be enough in most cases. And of course, it uses the best AI tech to send smart alerts if something happens.

Pros:

  • Supports as much as 8 cams
  • Saves info for 30 days
  • 15% discounts for purchases
  • 33% off for upfront payment
  • The best of AI tech

Cons:

  • Rather pricey if paid monthly
  • Only power users will make the most of it

Equipment Prices

Not only the prices of the plans matter. It is also important to bear in mind how much the gadgets cost, especially if taking into account that they have to be paid upfront. The prices vary depending on how advanced the tech they offer is.

Product Brand Type Price
Smart security lightMaximusSecurity camera$199
Camera floodlightMaximusSecurity camera$249
Companion lightMaximusSecurity light$99
Surveillance kitToucanSecurity camera$179
  • Maximus Answer DualCam Video Doorbell: $221.99
  • Maximus Smart Security Light Craftsman Style: $222
  • Maximus Smart Security Light Coach Style: $223
  • Toucan Surveillance Kit: $99.95
  • Maximus Camera Floodlight: $325
  • Maximus Smart Security Light Traditional Style: $223
  • Maximus Smart Security Light Contemporary Style: $226
  • Maximus Companion Light: $129
  • Toucan Smart Socket: $49

Ease of Use

The system is pretty simple to use. The setup process is simple and straightforward for those who are comfortable working with tools. In these cases, calling a pro or a technician is not necessary. Yet, users who do not feel comfortable working with electrical installations may prefer hiring someone else to do this.

Once this part is finished, using the system on a day to day basis is pretty easy. Just install the app on the smartphone and review everything that goes on at home from there.

Customer Experience

Previous clients have a lot to say about their experience using this brand. There are many aspects that shape it, and here we discuss them in detail. Read on to find out how different users review the service on sites like Amazon and what the company does to improve it.

Terms and Guarantees

The company’s privacy policy clearly states what type of info they gather and what they do with it. For example, they will only utilize the data internally to solve issues that the customer reports. But it is clear that they are not in the business of selling info to third parties.

In its Terms of Service, the company outlines the rights and obligations of both the client and the brand. In some sections, they state that people have the right to cancel their plans at any time without having to pay the penalty.

Customer Support

Kuna Customer Support

The customer support team is available for users in the USA and Canada only. These people can get in touch with the team through tickets or phone calls. In this case, the number to call and availability will depend on whether one has a Maximus or Toucan device.

The former have to call (855) 275-0412 from Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5:30 pm PT. The latter can contact (888) 788-6888 from Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 5 pm PT.

Reviews

Most people love the AI functionality and mention how it is the feature that makes this system stand out from the crowd. They say that this comes in handy to avoid receiving lots of useless alerts.

They also mention that the setup process in most of the cases is super easy, and anyone can do it. And once this is ready, everyone asserts that the video and audio quality delivered are above standard.

Regarding the night recording function, most users claim that it works as promised. Yet, the cams do not come with infrared lights. This means that having the lamp turned on is essential.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Are Kuna and Maximus the Same?

    Yes. They are sister products. That is, they are two names for the same thing. There is no difference between one or the other. That means that in some places, one can find the camera listed as Kuna. But, in other stores, it is called Maximus. What is important is that no matter their name, they are the same product.

  • Why Does My Kuna Camera Keep Going Offline?

    There are four main reasons why this happens:

    1. The router is far from the Smart Security Camera.
    2. The camera is on a non-standard Wi-Fi channel.
    3. There are many Access Points on the same channel.
    4. The router is changing channels with frequency.

    The solutions are these:

    1. To place the camera closer to the router.
    2. Get a Wi-Fi extender.
    3. To use Wi-Fi channels 1, 6, or 11.
    4. To reduce Access Points.
    5. To set your router on a static channel.

  • Does Kuna Require a Subscription?

    Not at all, without a premium plan, the system works just fine. It has advanced features like video streaming, a two-way voice system, and much more. The free plan includes two hours of recording storage, as well as three downloads each month. And, the app is always free to use.

  • Does Kuna Work with Ring?

    These are different products. They do not work together, meaning they do not use the same app. That means that each home security system works on its own. But, one can use both of them at the same time. There are, though, other apps and gadgets that work with Kuna.

  • Does Kuna Have Night Vision?

    No. Kuna does not have night vision. That is, it is not an infrared camera. But, it can record at night. Kuna has a strong light. It records high-quality color video even when it is dark. For the best quality, Kuna needs an A-15 LED or CFL bulb of 450 lumens.

  • Does the Kuna Camera Work with Alexa?

    Yes, Amazon Echo can now control Kuna. That means that Kuna can work with Alexa. Other home assistants can connect to it too. The set-up with Alexa is easy and quick. With the Alexa app, just tap on “Skills” and choose Kuna. Enter the account data, and that is all.

Pros & Cons

When choosing a system to protect the home, it is essential to check if it has some basic functions, like motion or light sensors and live footage. Still, what matters the most is checking previous reviews to understand what other users identify, which are its strengths and weaknesses. Based on all this info, this is what we found out.

Pros:

  • Excellent complementation of lights and cameras
  • Superb image quality
  • Good implementation of AI tech
  • Affordable and complete plans
  • Hardwiring makes it hard to hack

Cons:

  • No 24/7 customer service
  • Not the easiest setup around

An Affordable and Innovative Option for Many

This innovative system proves that one can try out new tech and still deliver high-quality products. Though there are still some corners that need to be polished, Kuna is a great option for those who are looking for an affordable solution for their home security problems.

Before committing to this system, make sure that the plans they offer fit the needs. Though there are no contracts, it is not possible to connect these cams to another monitoring center, for example. Yet, this should not deter people from trying what could be a good option for them.


Editorial Staff

Brad has worked as a sales manager in the security sector for 10 years. He is curious, attentive to details, and hard-working. He has dedicated several years to helping customers with their safety and protection. His background has helped Brad to write comprehensive security and life safety materials, which he has been writing for about 4 years. Brad has contributed work to The Washington Post, DailyJournal, Los Angeles Times, and many others.


Comments