What’s on the Agenda?
Today, we’re testing two scenarios with the Unifi UDB Pro. First, we’re mounting an AI Pro camera on a light pole in our parking lot—something we’ve wanted to do for a while. We don’t have any cables running out there, which makes this the perfect test case for the UDB Pro’s wireless capabilities.
The second test is a bit more adventurous. We’re taking two UDB Pro units and seeing how far apart we can place them while maintaining a solid connection. The devices are rated for up to 5 kilometers, but given our Florida surroundings (hello, trees and no line of sight), we’re not expecting to hit that number. Realistically, we’ll be testing at about 1,000 meters, which is still impressive.
What's in the Box?
As always, Unifi does a great job with their packaging. Inside, you’ll find:
- A 5 GHz wireless bridge that can connect over distances up to 5 kilometers
- Two gigabit Ethernet ports, one of which supports PoE (Power over Ethernet) output
- A pole mount for easy installation, plus weatherproofing for outdoor setups
Priced at $199 per unit, you’ll need two if you want to set up a bridge, making the total cost $398. You’ll also need a Unifi controller—this can either be local, cloud-hosted, or self-hosted.
Testing Indoors First
Before heading outside, we set everything up in the office. I connected the UDB Pro to a PoE device and an AI Pro camera. Using the Unifi mobile app, the setup process was straightforward. Within minutes, we were up and running with a quality signal.
For those who prefer a desktop interface, the UDB Pro integrates seamlessly with your existing network controller. Just remember to keep all your software up to date to avoid any potential hiccups.
The Parking Lot Test
Next, we took the UDB Pro outside to our parking lot. Mounted on a light stand, it connected quickly to our internal Wi-Fi. Even with the Florida wind picking up (we’re expecting a hurricane soon!), the connection held strong, and the AI Pro camera delivered a crisp, clear image.
The camera’s HDR feature did a little bit of over-processing on the trees, but overall, the image quality was fantastic. Whether I’m monitoring the front or back of the parking lot, the UDB Pro is more than capable of handling my needs.
The Long-Distance Test
Now for the fun part—testing the distance capabilities. With one UDB Pro mounted in the parking lot and the other across the street, we pushed the devices to see how far they could go while maintaining a quality connection.
UDB-Pro at 600 ft
The results? Even at a distance, the signal strength remained strong, and the image quality was just as sharp. This makes the UDB Pro an excellent choice for extending your network across larger properties or connecting remote buildings.
Final Thoughts
After putting the Unifi UDB Pro through its paces, we’re thrilled with its performance. Whether you’re looking to extend your network or set up remote cameras without running cables, this device has you covered. The setup is simple, the connection is strong, and the versatility is impressive.
If you missed our review of the regular UDB, check it out here for a comparison. We’ll continue to test these units, so stay tuned for more updates and experiments in the near future!
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