Choosing a pet camera can be tricky. Petcube and Furbo are two of the most popular options on the market. Both offer live video streaming, treat dispensing, and app connectivity, but they differ in design, subscription models, and advanced features. This article compares the two cameras to help you find the right fit for your home.
Key Features Overview
Both cameras provide HD video, treat tossing, and two-way audio, but the details matter. Petcube features a 1080p lens with a 160-degree wide-angle view and night vision. Furbo offers similar specs with a 1080p camera, 160-degree view, and enhanced night vision. Where Petcube stands out is its laser toy, which lets you interact with your pet remotely. Furbo, however, includes a barking alert feature, notifying you if your dog becomes agitated.
Petcube offers integration with Alexa, while Furbo pairs with both Alexa and Google Assistant. Furbo’s treat dispenser holds 100 pieces of kibble, slightly more than Petcube’s. For cat owners, Petcube’s laser may be a bigger draw. How-to-care-for-a-newly-adopted-cat explores other ways to engage with your feline friends.
App and Subscription Services
The Petcube app includes Petcube Care, a subscription service for video history storage and smart alerts. The basic plan starts at $3.99 per month for three days of history, while the premium plan costs $9.99 monthly for 30 days of history. Furbo’s subscription, Dog Nanny, is pricier at $6.99 per month but offers additional features like dog activity updates and cloud recording.
Both apps are intuitive and easy to use, but Furbo stands out with its diary feature that provides daily highlight reels of your pet’s activities. Petcube’s app, however, allows sharing access with friends and family, a handy feature for multi-owner pets. If you’re considering other pet tech, check out best-orthopedic-dog-beds-for-large-breeds for comfort solutions.
Design and Build Quality
Petcube has a sleek aluminum design that complements modern interiors. It measures 3x3x3 inches and weighs 1.1 pounds. Furbo is taller, at 8.86 inches, and made of plastic with a bamboo cover for the treat dispenser. Furbo’s design feels less premium but is practical for larger treat storage.
Furbo’s camera is more stable due to its weight and rubber base, reducing the risk of tipping over. Petcube is highly portable and fits easily on shelves or counters. If you have a large dog prone to knocking items over, Furbo’s sturdy build might be a better choice.
Price Comparison
Petcube Play 2 retails for $199, while Furbo costs $249. Furbo's higher price reflects its additional features like the barking alert and activity tracking. If you’re budget-conscious, Petcube is the more affordable option without compromising on essential features.
For pet owners interested in flea control, frontline-vs-capstar-flea-control compares two of the leading products. Both cameras can help keep an eye on your pet during treatments.
FAQ
Does Petcube work without Wi-Fi?
No, Petcube cameras require a stable Wi-Fi connection to operate. They use Wi-Fi for live streaming, cloud storage, and app notifications.
Can Furbo be used for cats as well as dogs?
Yes, Furbo works for both cats and dogs. It can dispense treats, record video, and detect movements of any pet in your home.
What’s the subscription cost for Petcube Care?
Petcube Care starts at $3.99 per month for 3 days of video history, while the premium plan is $9.99 per month for 30 days of history.
What size treats fit in Furbo?
Furbo accommodates treats measuring 0.4 inches in diameter. It’s compatible with kibble or round treats for small to medium pets.
Can Petcube’s laser toy harm pets?
No, the laser is pet-safe. It’s a low-powered laser designed specifically for play and won’t harm your pet’s eyes or skin.
Both Petcube and Furbo have features for specific needs. If you value treat capacity and barking alerts, Furbo is worth the extra cost. For a sleek design and interactive laser, Petcube is the better choice.
