Comprehensive Guide to Purchasing a Reolink Camera

Your Guide to buying the best Reolink camera

Overview

Navigating the technical world of security cameras can often seem overwhelming, especially when you want nothing but the best to secure your premises. Our comprehensive buying guide for Reolink Cameras aims to make this process easier and more straightforward for you. Whether you are a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade your current security system, we've got you covered. This guide will delve into the intricate details, features, and considerations of buying a Reolink camera, ensuring you make an informed decision that perfectly suits your security needs.

Key features

  1. Camera Type: Reolink offers both indoor and outdoor cameras. Depending on your needs, you should consider where you plan to install the camera.
  2. Resolution: The clarity of the images or videos captured by the camera is determined by its resolution. Reolink cameras offer various resolutions, including 4K Ultra HD, 5MP, 4MP and 1080p Full HD.
  3. Field of View: This refers to the area that the camera can cover. A wider field of view means the camera can cover a larger area.
  4. Connectivity: Reolink cameras can connect via Wi-Fi, PoE (Power over Ethernet), or 4G LTE cellular. Wi-Fi and PoE cameras require a stable network environment, while 4G LTE cameras are good for areas with limited or no Internet access.
  5. Night Vision: Most Reolink security cameras are equipped with night vision, to provide clear imaging even in the dark. Check the specifications for details on how far the night vision extends.
  6. Audio: Some Reolink cameras come with two-way audio, allowing you to hear and speak through the camera. This is especially useful for monitoring inside your home or business.
  7. Storage: Reolink cameras offer different storage options. Some models have built-in SD card slots for local storage, while others support cloud storage. Consider your storage needs before making a purchase.
  8. Weather Resistance: If you're buying an outdoor camera, make sure it is weather-resistant. Reolink's outdoor cameras are typically IP66 or IP65 rated, which means they can withstand various weather conditions.
  9. Smart Home Integration: Some Reolink cameras are compatible with smart home systems like Google Home or Amazon Alexa, which allows you to control the camera using voice commands.

See the most popular Reolink camera on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • High-Quality Video: Reolink cameras offer high-resolution imaging with crystal clear details for optimum surveillance.
  • Easy Installation: Reolink cameras are designed for an easy DIY setup, allowing users to install them without professional help.
  • Advanced Features: Reolink cameras come with advanced features such as two-way audio, person/vehicle detection, and smart home compatibility.
  • Diverse Product Range: Reolink offers a vast range of security camera systems, including indoor, outdoor, battery-powered, solar-powered, and PoE cameras, catering to different user needs.
  • Remote Access: Users can easily access camera feeds from any location using the Reolink App or Client software.
  • Durable and Weatherproof: Reolink cameras are built to last with durable materials and are weatherproof, making them ideal for outdoor use.
  • Reliable Customer Service: Reolink offers reliable customer service, providing support and assistance whenever needed.
  • Affordable: Compared to other brands, Reolink offers high-quality products at more affordable prices.

Cons

  • Cost: Reolink cameras tend to be more expensive compared to other brands in the market, which might not suit budget-conscious buyers.
  • Setup Difficulty: For some users, setting up the camera and network can be complicated and require technical expertise.
  • Customer Support: Some customers have reported that Reolink's customer support could be improved, especially in terms of response times and troubleshooting help.
  • Software Limitations: Reolink's software may lack some advanced features that competitors offer, such as facial recognition.
  • Compatibility Issues: The cameras may not be compatible with all types of devices or operating systems, limiting the ways you can monitor and control them.
  • Wi-Fi Connectivity: Some users have reported issues with the camera's Wi-Fi connectivity, requiring them to frequently reset or adjust their camera.

Best alternatives

  1. Arlo Pro 3 - This wireless outdoor security camera offers color night vision and a built-in spotlight and siren, providing excellent security features comparable to Reolink.
  2. Ring Spotlight Cam - Known for its integrated video doorbell, Ring also offers the Spotlight Cam as a robust alternative to Reolink cameras. It features LED spotlights and a siren.
  3. Nest Cam Outdoor - This is a weatherproof outdoor camera from Google's Nest brand. It features a stylish design and advanced features like person detection.
  4. Wyze Cam v3 - A budget-friendly alternative to Reolink cameras that doesn't skimp on features. It offers color night vision, two-way audio, and is compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant.
  5. EufyCam 2C - A wireless outdoor security camera with a spotlight and human detection technology. It provides a 180-day battery life, making it a durable and reliable alternative to Reolink.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Reolink Solar Panel: This accessory is designed to provide non-stop power to your Reolink Go, Argus 2 and Argus Pro cameras. It is weatherproof and adjustable for more solar power.
  • Reolink Battery Pack: An additional or replacement battery pack for your Reolink Go, Argus 2 and Argus Pro cameras. It ensures that your camera is always powered and ready to capture any movement.
  • Reolink Antenna Extension Cable: This cable is used to increase the Wi-Fi signal reception of your Reolink camera. It's ideal for those who have their cameras installed in areas with poor Wi-Fi signal.
  • Reolink Junction Box: A box that hides and secures the Ethernet cable and RJ45 connectors of PoE cameras from potential vandalism or tampering.
  • Reolink Ethernet Cables: These cables come in various lengths and are used to connect your Reolink camera to your router for a more reliable, faster data transmission.
  • Reolink Protective Skins: Silicone skins that protect your Reolink cameras from the elements and help to blend them into their surroundings.

Common questions

  1. What types of Reolink cameras are available?
    Reolink offers a wide range of camera types including indoor cameras, outdoor cameras, battery-powered cameras, solar-powered cameras, PTZ cameras, PoE cameras, and Wi-Fi cameras.
  2. What is the video quality of Reolink cameras?
    Most Reolink cameras offer high-definition video quality, with resolutions ranging from 1080p to 4K depending on the model.
  3. Do Reolink cameras have night vision?
    Yes, Reolink cameras come equipped with advanced infrared night vision, allowing clear visibility even in complete darkness.
  4. Are Reolink cameras weatherproof?
    Reolink outdoor cameras are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions. They are typically rated IP66, which means they are dust tight and protected against heavy seas or powerful jets of water.
  5. How is the installation process for Reolink cameras?
    Reolink cameras are designed for easy DIY installation. Each camera comes with a detailed user manual, and Reolink also provides online video tutorials and technical support for further assistance.
  6. Can Reolink cameras be accessed remotely?
    Yes, you can access your Reolink cameras remotely using the free Reolink app on your smartphone or tablet, or via your computer.
  7. Do Reolink cameras support two-way audio?
    Many Reolink camera models support two-way audio, allowing you to listen and talk back through the camera.
  8. What kind of warranty is offered with Reolink cameras?
    Reolink offers a two-year limited warranty for their cameras, covering any defects in material or workmanship under normal use during the warranty period.

Trivia

Reolink, a leading security camera manufacturer, once conducted a fun and interactive social media initiative called the "Reolink Creative Recipe Contest". The contest was quite a departure from their typical technology-centric marketing, as it invited customers to share their favorite recipes and cooking tips. Intriguingly, the catch was that the participants had to incorporate the use of a Reolink camera in their cooking process! This unexpected blend of culinary arts and home security illustrated the versatility of Reolink cameras and certainly brought smiles to the faces of customers and social media followers alike. For a security camera brand to dive into the culinary world was both surprising and delightful, showing a different, lighter side to home security. This unique initiative showcased the brand's inventive approach, proving that Reolink cameras can be used for more than just safety—they can also play a fun part in your everyday home activities! [Source](https://reolink.com/creative-recipe-contest/)

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.