D-Link Cameras Review: Top Picks from a Reputable Brand

D-Link is known for its impressive lineup of security cams. This D-Link cameras review will help consumers find the most suitable product for their lifestyle, family, and home.

Steven Lewis - Editorial Staff

Updated: April 14, 2021

D-Link Cameras Review: In-Depth

Even though the company is known for Internet routers, there are several impressive D-Link cameras. The brand prioritizes modern technology, sleek designs, and user-friendliness, which makes it a popular brand for consumers. 

Along with its indoor and outdoor cams, the products boast advanced security features like pan and tilt, digital zoom, and much more.

Key Features

A D-Link security camera is not only easy to set up, but the entire user process is straightforward and effective. Here are the top features that make this brand stand out.

  • Cloud storage (and local)
  • Easy installation
  • Live-streaming feed
  • Mobile control
  • Smart home automation
  • Wire-free options

Background Information

D-Link Background Information

D-Link Corporation is based in Taiwan and specializes in Internet routers, IP cams, security storage, and wireless access points. The business is a major player in the residential security and smart home market.

It has won five awards in 2021 alone, including the CES Innovation Award and iF Design Award.

  • About 2,000 total employees
  • Founded in 1986
  • Known for its simple DIY installation and fast connection speeds
  • A 2021 Technology Reseller Editor’s Choice

Features: Key Characteristics

Below are the top features that customers can expect from D-Link cameras. Its indoor and outdoor cameras offer high-definition image quality, two-way communication, night vision, wide-angle lenses, and more.

Remote Control

Thanks to the mobile app, clients can remotely control their cams and other D-Link accessories. This comes in handy when they’re working late or going away for vacation.

2-Way Voice

Advanced speakers and microphones allow for dual-way communication so clients can talk to visitors from afar. They can use the Omna app to speak to kids or guests while they’re away.

Night Vision

D-Link Night Vision

This feature is a must-have if individuals want to keep their family and valuables safe. D-Link cams have infrared LEDs that can see in the dark up to 16 feet.

High Definition

Without high-def image quality, it is hard to see figures on the live-streaming feed. 

Motion Detection

Every cam has motion detection technology that can work within about 15 feet. This way, customers can get mobile alerts before someone even gets into their home.

Cloud Storage

D-Link Cloud Storage

These products also have local storage, although it depends on the subscription package that the customer chooses. If they opt for storing files online, they’ll get a MyDLink account.

Mobile Alerts

D-Link offers a free mobile app called Omna that allows clients to access the video feed from their phones. They may also use a tablet or computer to watch live-streaming footage.

Smart Home Options

Most of these security cams work with smartphones and other intelligent home devices. This way, families can synch their products and create a complete automation system for their safety and convenience.

Live Streaming

D-Link Live Streaming

Again, clients can access the live-streaming footage on their smartphones, tablets, or computers. They can see the video feed from anywhere, so they’re always in the know.

Equipment & Installation

Not that they know what to expect from a D-Link camera, consumers can get a closer look at the installation process. 

DCS-8525LH (Pan & Tilt Wi-Fi Camera): Very Little to Complain About

D-Link DCS-8525LH

This D-Link outdoor camera is known for its panning and tilting capabilities. It boasts HD image quality as well as dual audio and night vision. The wide-angle lens also has motion and sound detection, so it provides the ultimate protection. 

Pros:

  • Detects movement and sound
  • Wide-angle viewing with tilt

Cons:

  • It’s a bit bulky

DCS-8300LH: Crisp Clarity in the Dark

D-Link DCS-8300LH

The 8300LH is a sleeker model and costs a bit less than the 8525. It has a 137° lens and 1080p HD resolution so users can see their surroundings in the best clarity possible. 

Like most other cams, it is capable of local storage, depending on the client’s subscription package. Its night vision works up to 16 feet, too. Plus, it can integrate with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and IFTTT.

Pros:

  • Easy to see surroundings in the dark
  • Two-way communication

Cons:

  • No pan and tilt

DCS-8000LH: A Miniature Companion

D-Link DCS‑8000LH

This is a smaller and more affordable counterpart to the bigger D-Link accessories. It’s quite easy to find online and in stores at nationwide retailers. Even though it’s small, it packs a punch with daytime and nighttime recording settings, instant alerts, and motion with sound detection.

Pros:

  • Affordability and availability
  • Small but powerful

Cons:

  • A narrower field of view

DCS-8630LH: Protection Against the Elements

D-Link DCS-8630LH

This D-Link IP camera is perfect for those who want outdoor security. It’s a more expensive model, but it boasts some of the top features that families want. These include full HD resolution and a 157° wide-angle lens. 

Pros:

  • Lots of outdoor protection
  • Spotlight deterrent

Cons:

  • Pricier

Other D-Link Cameras

D-Link Other D-Link Cameras

Here is a closer look at some of the other D-Link cameras that consumers may want to browse. Each one has something to offer, so go through the list to see which ones meet certain needs.

DCS-8526LH

This is a good alternative to the other pan and tilt camera. The price is similar, although it’s available just at Walmart. It has a similar design and works with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa.

DCS-8010LH

This is an HD Wi-Fi camera with 720p resolution and a 120° lens. While it’s a more affordable option, it just doesn’t have the same power and clarity, as the other products.

DCS-8600LH

Here is an expensive D-Link model, but it comes with all the bells and whistles homeowners want. This includes full 1080p HD quality, IP65 weather resistance, and a 135° lens. 

DCS-8600LH/LT

Sleek and weather-resistant, this cam comes with two-way communication settings, local storage, and an optional 135° lens. It integrates with other smart home devices and has an impressive 23-foot night vision range.

DCS-8302LH

Another outdoor security camera, this new model is equipped to handle the elements as well as keep burglars away. Some of its best features include a built-in 95dB siren and Bluetooth.

DCS-8000LH/2PK

This sleek mini camera has a 120° viewing angle and can fit into the smallest of spaces. It is also capable of nighttime viewing and comes with movement and sound detection for extra security.

Installation & Performance

Most customers will find setting up their D-Link cameras is nice and easy. Everything that they need is in the box, including the mounting hardware. 

In fact, many people install their products in less than 15 minutes.

  1. Start with unboxing everything.
  2. Plug in the camera and press the power button.
  3. Download and install the mydlink app on a smartphone.
  4. Open the app and register for an account, which will sync the product with the application.
  5. Find the best angle for the camera, depending on whether it’s going outside or inside.
  6. Mount the device using the mounting hardware, and that’s it!

D-Link Cameras Packages & Prices

The good thing about D-Link products is that they tend to be widely available. However, the downside is that the prices depend on the specific retailer or distributor. So, it’s best for consumers to shop around at a few different stores to find the lowest price. 

Also, keep in mind that the cams come in single, double, and multi-packs. The prices usually range from $59.99 to $149.99.

While the cameras themselves are quite affordable, customers should consider the storage subscription when budgeting for a device.

Cameras Comparison Table

Use this convenient chart to compare the different D-Link cameras. Shoppers can check which products have the pricing, features, and specs they want.

8525 LH 8300 LH 8000 LH 8630 LH 8526 LH 8010 LH 8600 LH 8600 LH/LT 8320 LH 8000 LH/2PK
Price $100 $90 $60 $150 $90 $60 $185 $185 $80 $90
HD 1080p 1080p 720p 1080p 1080p 720p 1080p 1080p 1080p 720p
Integrations Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Motion Alerts Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Night Vision 16ft 16ft 16ft 23ft 16ft 16ft 23ft 23ft 16ft 16ft
Pan/Tilt Yes No No No Yes No No No No No
SoundDetection Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Storage Cloud/Local Cloud/Local Cloud/ Cloud/ Cloud/ Cloud/ Cloud/ Cloud/ Cloud/ Cloud/
Two-way talk Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Weatherproof No No No Yes No No Yes Yes No No
Wide-Angle Lens 150° 137° 120° 150° 360° 120° 135° 135° 135° 120°
Wireless Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

Cloud Storage Plans

Something to be aware of is D-Link’s subscription model. While there is a free version, most clients will want some kind of paid plan. The packages allow them to record video footage on up to 10 cameras at once. Below is a closer look at each plan, as well as its pricing, video storage details, and more.

The free package is available to everyone, but it’s limited to one day of video storage, so it’s not very useful.

Free Basic Premium Pro
Price (Monthly) $0 $2.49 $4.99 $9.99
Price (Annually) $0 $24.99 $49.99 $99.99
# of Cams 3 3 5 10
Video Storage 1 day 7 days 14 days 30 days

Ease of Use

The great thing about D-Link wireless security cameras is that they are very easy to use. This company is known for its user-friendliness, so even if people don’t have much tech experience, they won’t have any trouble setting up their devices. 

Everything that they need comes right in the box, and it’s as simple as plugging it in and downloading the accompanying app. No wires are needed. That said, the more cameras a home has, the longer the installation process.

Customer Support

D-Link Customer Support

Now, it’s time to look at this brand’s client support services. While they won’t blow anyone away, the team isn’t a huge disappointment. Read below for more details and reviews about this aspect of the company.

Terms & Guarantees

To register their new devices, customers must have a D-Link account, even if they’re using the free subscription services. While the devices are built to be as dependable as possible, the brand can’t promise 100% reliability and accessibility. That said, there is rarely a time when the video feed won’t be available. When syncing cameras, different settings may store cookies on the devices or the user’s smartphone or tablet.

The devices are sold as-is, although the customer support team is responsive and dedicated to ironing out any kinks clients may experience.

Customer Service

In terms of customer service, there isn’t anything that makes D-Link stand out from the rest. That said, the support team tries to be as responsive as possible and is best reached via chat or email. Before calling them, be sure that the product has any new updates installed.

Reviews

Overall, D-Link has a solid reputation, especially among DIYers. These cameras and routers are highly affordable and can stand up to the more well-known competition. According to reviews, users appreciate the mydlink app, which grants them remote control of their devices. Plus, they can integrate their devices with their Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. The free temporary storage is another great perk.

D-Link surveillance cameras are a winner for those who appreciate DIY projects. They can set up their products in just a few minutes, and the wireless design means they can put them in more places. The smart home integrations are also a huge bonus. On the downside, the image quality isn’t always great.

Pros:

  • Great pricing and availability
  • Integrates with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and IFTTT
  • Motion and sound alerts
  • Remote control via the mydlink app
  • Simple DIY set-up with everything included

Cons:

  • Limited HD quality
  • Pricing varies depending on the retailer

FAQs

  • Are D-Link Cameras Secure?

    Yes, as long as customers use them properly. As with any kind of surveillance camera, it’s important to have a secure Wi-Fi network and firewall protection.

    They should also keep their mydlink app account password-protected. With the correct safety protocols in place, there shouldn’t be any issues.

  • Can I View My D-Link Camera on My Computer?

    Yes, it’s possible to view video footage and recordings from a computer, as well as a smartphone or tablet. Clients should download and install the accompanying D-Link app and create an account. After that, they can see stored videos.

    Depending on their subscription, they may see history from the past day, week, or month.

  • Why is My D-Link Camera Not Working?

    For the most part, D-Link cams maintain a reliable Internet connection. If this isn’t working, the first thing to do is to check the Wi-Fi network. Also, look at the LED indicator light to make sure the device is turned on. Then, ensure that the accompanying mobile app is up and running.

  • Does D-Link Camera Record?

    Yes. With these D-Link products, individuals can record indoors or outdoors, depending on the model. They will have access to digital zoom, pan and tilt, and other features to ensure they get a clear view of the surroundings.

  • How Do I Reset My D-Link Camera?

    Yes. With these D-Link products, individuals can record indoors or outdoors, depending on the model. They will have access to digital zoom, pan and tilt, and other features to ensure they get a clear view of the surroundings.

  • How Do I Reset My D-Link Camera?

    There may come a time when customers need to reset their cameras.

    This shouldn’t be a problem, and the resetting process is quite simple.

    1. To start, locate the reset button on the device. It’s usually a tiny hole, so use a paperclip or needle to press it in and hold it for ten seconds.
    2. Check the indicator status light to be sure the camera is restarting.
    3. Finally, run the installation process again.

  • Why Does My D-Link Camera Keep Going Offline?

    There may come a time when the device says that it’s offline. If that’s the case, don’t panic because it’s usually an easy fix. It’s probably a matter of reconnecting to the Wi-Fi.

    1. Start by checking the Wi-Fi network and ensuring that the product is connected to the Internet.
    2. Reset the camera until the LED indicator light turns green.
    3. Log into the mydlink app and check on the connection status.

Solid and Safe, With Few Complaints

So, there we have it; everything consumers need to know about this company and its products. Hopefully, this D-Link camera review will help families and individuals find the perfect surveillance device for their needs.

If you have any experience with this brand and its cameras, be sure to share some thoughts below.


Editorial Staff

Steven Lewis combined his writing talent and home security knowledge and became a journalist researching the topic. He holds a Degree in Criminal Law and has spent a significant part of his career studying security issues backed up with his legal knowledge.


Comments