A UniFi Protect system has three parts: cameras, a recorder that stores the video, and PoE (Power over Ethernet) ports that power each camera over its network cable. Some recorders have PoE built in, and larger systems use a separate PoE switch. Then there's the installation, which for most jobs is the biggest variable.
Prices below are Ubiquiti's US store prices as of October 2026, before tax and any import surcharge. Ubiquiti changes prices from time to time, so we confirm current pricing on every quote.
Camera prices
| Camera | Price | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| G5 Turret Ultra / G5 Bullet | $129 | Entry-level 2K; porches, side yards, hallways |
| G6 Turret / G6 Bullet | $199 | 4K, the everyday choice for homes and businesses |
| G6 Pro Bullet / G6 Pro Turret | $479 | Optical zoom; long driveways, lots, building fronts |
| G6 Pro 360 | $499 | One camera covering a whole room, lobby or yard |
| AI LPR | $499 | License-plate capture at gates and entrances |
Recorders
| Recorder | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| NVR Instant | $199 | 6 built-in PoE ports, 1 drive bay. Up to 6 4K cameras. |
| NVR | $299 | 4 drive bays; needs a separate PoE switch |
| NVR Pro | $499 | Rack-mount, 7 drive bays, for larger systems |
| NVR G2 Pro | $999 | For large, high-camera-count buildings |
Recorders ship without hard drives. Plan on surveillance-rated drives sized to how many days of footage you want to keep. More cameras, higher resolution and longer retention all need more storage.
PoE switches (when the recorder doesn't power the cameras)
| Switch | Price | PoE ports / power |
|---|---|---|
| Switch Lite 8 PoE | $109 | 8 ports / 52W |
| Switch Pro Max 16 PoE | $399 | 16 ports / 180W |
| Switch Pro Max 24 PoE | $799 | 24 ports / 400W |
The power budget matters as much as the port count. Higher-end cameras draw more, so we size the switch to the cameras, not just to how many there are.
Three example systems (equipment only)
| System | Equipment | Approx. equipment cost* |
|---|---|---|
| Starter home, 4 cameras | NVR Instant + 4× G5 Turret Ultra | ~$715 |
| Full home, 8 cameras | NVR + Switch Pro Max 16 PoE + 8× G6 Turret/Bullet | ~$2,290 |
| Small business, 16 cameras | NVR Pro + Switch Pro Max 24 PoE + 16× G6 Turret/Bullet | ~$4,480 |
*Before hard drives, mounts, cable, tax and installation. Swapping a few cameras for Pro or 360° models is common and changes the total.
What drives installation cost
Installation is mostly labor and cable. Here's what moves the price:
- Cable routes. A ranch or bungalow with an open basement or attic is quick to wire. Finished basements, plaster walls, multiple stories and brick exteriors take longer.
- Mounting height and access. First-floor eaves are simple. Second-story soffits, peaks and lot poles need ladders, lifts or extra hardware.
- Distance. Detached garages, outbuildings and far corners of a lot need longer runs, outdoor-rated cable and sometimes extra network gear.
- Existing wiring. Replacing an older system? Existing cable that tests good can often be reused, including old coax runs with the right adapters, which can save a lot of labor.
- Network and setup. Configuring motion zones, alerts, user access, retention and remote viewing, and connecting it all cleanly to your network.
What doesn't cost extra
There's no monthly fee to record, play back or view your cameras from your phone. Once it's installed, you own it. Compare that with cloud camera plans that run $5–$20 a month indefinitely (see UniFi vs Ring).
How we quote
Every quote starts with a free walkthrough. We decide what each camera needs to see, plan the cable routes, and give you an itemized quote that lists every camera, the recorder, storage and labor. Nothing starts until you approve it. Ready for a number for your property? Call or text (216) 232-5975.
Frequently asked
Is there a monthly fee for UniFi Protect?
No. Recording, playback and remote viewing are included with the hardware. Footage stays on the recorder at your property.
How many days of footage can I keep?
It depends on the number of cameras, resolution and drive size. We size the storage to the number of days you want to keep, commonly 2–4 weeks for homes and 30 days or more for businesses.
Can I start small and add cameras later?
Yes. Choose a recorder and switch with room to grow, and you can add cameras later without replacing anything.