In this guide, we compare two popular cameras in the Ubiquiti UniFi Protect lineup — the AI Turret and the G6 Turret — looking at image quality, night vision, AI detections, build quality, and overall value.
The aim is simple: to help you decide whether the premium AI Turret is worth the extra cost, or whether the G6 Turret offers the best balance of performance and price for most installs.
Why This Comparison Matters
Both cameras are designed for users running UniFi Protect who want reliable, turret-style CCTV for homes, small businesses, and light commercial installations.
On paper, they share several key specifications:
- 4K (8 MP) resolution
- Power over Ethernet (PoE)
- Indoor and outdoor mounting support
In real-world use, however, the differences become clearer — particularly when it comes to:
- Night-time performance
- AI detection reliability
- Physical build quality
- Power requirements
- Cost
We tested both cameras side by side during the day and at night to highlight where those differences actually matter in practical installations.
Camera Overview
Ubiquiti G6 Turret
The UniFi Protect G6 Turret is positioned as a high-value 4K camera with modern AI detection at a more accessible price point.
Key features:
- 4K resolution using an 8 MP 1/1.8″ sensor
- Wide field of view (≈ 109.9°), ideal for covering larger areas
- Built-in AI detections (people and vehicles), benefiting from the latest G6-generation processing
- Lower PoE power draw (≈ 12.5 W), suitable for smaller PoE switches
- Lower cost compared to the AI Turret
Ubiquiti AI Turret
The UniFi Protect AI Turret is the more premium option, aimed at users who need stronger AI performance and improved night-time footage.
Key features:
- 4K resolution with enhanced AI processing
- Advanced night vision, including:
- Longer IR range (≈ 40 m vs ≈ 30 m on the G6 Turret)
- Integrated LED floodlight for colour night vision
- Two-way audio, useful for:
- Entry points and gates
- Visitor interaction
- Deterrence
- Higher build quality, with improved vandal and impact resistance (higher IK rating)
- Higher PoE power draw (≈ 20 W)
- Significantly higher price than the G6 Turret
AI Turret
- 8MP
- Advanced AI
- Supplementary LED
G6 Turret
- 8MP
- Advanced AI
- 30M IR
Real-World Performance Differences
Based on our own testing and wider installer and community feedback:
- The AI Turret performs noticeably better at night, particularly in low-light areas where colour footage provides more usable detail than IR alone
- AI detections, especially for vehicles and fine detail (such as licence plates), tend to be more reliable on the AI Turret
- The G6 Turret still delivers excellent 4K daytime footage and solid night-time performance for most residential and small-business use cases
For many users, the G6 Turret represents a strong value-for-money UniFi Protect camera.
Verdict: G6 Turret vs AI Turret — Value or Premium?
If you’re looking for reliable UniFi Protect CCTV at a sensible price, the G6 Turret delivers excellent 4K image quality, modern AI detections, and good all-round performance. For many installations — particularly indoors or in well-lit outdoor areas — it is more than adequate.
If, however, you prioritise:
- Stronger night-time performance
- More reliable AI detections
- Better build quality
- Two-way audio
- Future-proof features
…the AI Turret justifies its higher cost.
In short:
- Choose the G6 Turret for value-focused installs
- Choose the AI Turret when performance, flexibility, and night-time detail really matter
Author: Huw Jones – Home Network Solutions Berkshire
Huw is a UniFi specialist and the owner of Home Network Solutions Berkshire, providing professional networking, CCTV, gate automation and smart home installations across the UK. With years of hands-on experience and a growing YouTube audience at @home.network.solutions, Huw creates practical, no-nonsense guides to help homeowners and installers get the best out of their UniFi systems.
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