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Reolink Cameras Review: In-Depth
The people who want to boost their security at home will find that this brand offers options for any need, both indoor and outdoor. Owners of large properties can go for one of the kits, for example. Still, something that all the models have in common is that they are not budget-friendly. Are they worth how much they cost? Discover that in this Reolink cameras review.
Key Features
- Night vision
- Hardwired or wireless cameras
- Protection against vandals
- 24/7 security reviews
- DIY setup
- Flexible equipment
Background Information
Since it was founded in 2009, this company has seen incredible growth. Dedicating itself to high-ticket security items, it offers some of the most innovative gadgets in the market and with very high quality.
Having its headquarters in Wan Chai, Hong Kong Island, Hong Kong, the company offers its services across Asia and the United States, among other areas.
It takes pride in its simplicity since most of its cameras take very little time to be set up, even the outdoor ones. This comes with above-average resolution and a complete ecosystem that has nothing to envy to that of other big players in this niche.
Features: High Quality at a Price
Most of the gadgets that this brand offers, from the Reolink Argus 2 to the Reolink Go, cover the most in-demand features in the market. To learn how they perform in these aspects, read on.
24/7 Monitoring
The Reolink camera system keeps an eye on everything that goes on around the house all day long. The user can access this footage at any time to make sure that his property is safe, and if he detects anything out of place, he can contact the police straight away.
Surveillance Cameras
The Reolink cameras were designed to control what is going on at home at any moment, from any place, even outdoor.
To do this, they list plenty of different types of devices in their catalog, like
- Battery Powered devices,
- Power over Ethernet (PoE) IP
- Network Video Recorders (NVRs), Wi-Fi Security Cameras
- PoE Wi-Fi
In this way, they aim at providing a complete set of options in the market.
Weatherproof
Those who want to protect their homes from the outside can do so with these devices. They are prepared to withstand the harshest of climates, from constant storms to blizzards and dust.
This is proved by their IP65 and IP66 ratings, which means that the gadgets can be placed on any external wall, garden, or any other place, and the owner need not fear that they may get damaged.
Motion Detection & Alerts
The Reolink camera system comes with a set of sensors to detect any type of movement that takes place in the residence. As soon as it detects something out of place, the device will send an alert to the client to notify him. In this way, he can take whichever action he deems necessary.
The best part about this is that the notifications can be customized so that, for example, they are not triggered at a specific time. Just be aware that some false alarms may happen, and this is normal. When this occurs, it is best to ignore it and carry on.
Wireless Equipment
There is no need to spend hours drilling on setting up these gadgets. They have a completely wireless system that guarantees their safety as well as their simplicity. Since there are no wires to cut, these cams are very hard to hack by common burglars.
Those who feel more comfortable with the traditional method can go for the wired cameras too. The brand offers many models that work through an Ethernet cable. This works well in areas with poor reception.
Smart Home Options
The system comes with plenty of devices to help automate tasks at one’s home. They allow clients to get in touch with those who are at the door, even when the user is not at home. This is done through the two-way audio feature.
Just bear in mind that this is not compatible with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. It only works from the company’s native app.
Remote Control
The Reolink cameras come with a mobile application that allows controlling the devices from any part of the world with an Internet connection. It is compatible with Android and iOS, so practically anyone with a phone can use it. Through it, people can enjoy the 24/7 live stream and get alerts when there are movements.
Voice Response
Those who want to be able to talk to the people outside will appreciate the voice response feature. Besides talking to visitors, one can communicate with family members or even pets who stayed at home. This is also useful to give voice commands to other smart devices at home.
Cloud Storage (Coming Soon)
Gone are the days when losing an SD card meant losing all the info one had collected. Now, even if the device is broken to pieces, all the videos are going to be safe on the cloud. It syncs automatically every time there are new files.
Power Outage Protection
There is no need to worry about potential power surges with the Reolink camera. All the devices produced by this brand are prepared to withstand any possible power problems. So, if there is no electricity all of a sudden, they will not burn. Instead, they will turn off safely.
Equipment & Installation
This brand offers plenty of equipment that can be acquired on its own or in sets. This allows having an option for every need, from small houses to large spaces. Explore all the possibilities available in the catalog below.
Argus 2
This Reolink Argus 2 is unique in the sense that one can choose to pair it with a solar panel to use renewable energies and save on the bills.
Some of the other characteristics it has are:
- Rechargeable battery
- Night vision
- PIR Motion sensor
- Voice recordable alerts
- Two-way audio
- 130-degree viewing angle
- HD Video
- Solar-powered option
- Intelligent alerts
- Live view on the app
- Compatible with Google Assistant
- Cloud or SD storage
Argus Pro
Not only does the Reolink camera review its surroundings over Wi-Fi, but it also has some other very interesting features. This advanced model has nothing to envy to the competition.
- Rechargeable battery
- Night vision
- PIR Motion sensor
- Two-way audio
- 130-degree viewing angle
- HD Video
- Intelligent alerts
- Live view on the app
- Compatible with Google Assistant
- SD storage
- Weatherproofing
- Siren
- Voice-recordable alerts
Go
Those who live in areas with poor Wi-Fi connections will appreciate what the Reolink go has in store. It can work entirely on 4G and 3G networks. So, connectivity should not be a problem.
- Wire-free
- Multiple power options
- Night vision
- Full HD
- 110-degree viewing angle
- Weatherproof
- Intelligent alerts
- Two-way audio
- Live view on the app
- Voice recordable alerts
- Siren
Argus Eco
This Reolink camera model is great to be used outdoors, thanks to its sturdiness and weather resistance. Still, those who want to use it indoors can also do so and obtain great results.
- Wire-free
- Weatherproof
- Multiple power options
- Low battery notifications
- HD video
- Night vision
- 100-degree viewing angle
- Intelligent alerts
- Voice-recordable alerts
- Local or cloud storage
- App
- Two-way audio
- Compatible with Google Assistant
Argus PT
Make sure not to confuse this model with the Reolink Argus 2. They are not the same. This one has a pan and tilt option that allows covering a much wider area. Besides, it also has most of the features one has come to expect from a device of this type.
- Full HD video
- Pan and tilt
- Rechargeable battery
- Weatherproof
- Starlight night vision
- 105-degree viewing angle
- Intelligent alerts
- Voice-recordable alerts
- App
- Two-way audio
- SD or Cloud storage options
- Low battery notifications
- Google Assistant compatible
- Siren
C1 Pro
This 4MP Reolink camera has one of the highest image qualities in the market. That, together with its coverage of ample areas, makes the Reolink c1 pro ideal for those who are looking for a mid-range product of high-quality.
- 1440p Super HD, 2.4/5 GHz WiFi, Pan & Tilt
- Setup in Minutes
- 355° Pan & 105° Tilt
- Two-Way Audio
- SD Card Slot
C2 Pro
This advanced model is one of the top Reolink cameras. Not only does the device look up, down, and to the sides, but one can also get closer to the objects without losing quality thanks to the optical zoom of the Reolink c2 pro.
- 5MP Super HD
- Versatile PTZ
- Pan & Tilt
- 3X Optical Zoom
- 2.4/5 GHz WiFi
- Two-Way Audio
RLC-511W
This camera has one of the highest resolutions in the market, which even outshines that of 1080p devices. Its strong wifi receptor is also one of the reasons why the users can get up to the last detail on the spot, without lag.
This is a summary of what it offers.
- 5MP Dual-Band WiFi Security Camera
- 2.4/5 GHz WiFi
- 4X Optical Zoom
- Audio Recording
- IP66 Waterproof
RLC-410W
Being a device designed to be outdoors, this Reolink camera system is very sturdy. This also means that it has a very powerful Wi-Fi receptor to make sure that the gadget can stay connected even at great distances.
- 4MP Dual-Band WiFi Security Camera
- 2.4/5 GHz WiFi
- Audio Recording
- IP66 Waterproof
- Motion Detection
RLC-422W
Since it has an IP66 certification, there is no problem in having the Reolink cameras review the area outside the house. This device not only survives harsh weather, but it is also vandal-proof. Its IK10 rating proves this.
- 5MP Super HD
- 2.4/5 GHz WiFi
- 4X Optical Zoom
- Dual-Band WiFi
- IK10 Vandal Proof
- IP66 Waterproof
RLC-423
Thanks to its 6 infrared LEDs, this camera can capture footage with a great level of detail at any hour of the day, even at night. It can cover a distance of up to 190 feet, which is not common at all. Its 5MP sensor also guarantees that it records with a high-quality during the day.
- 5MP High-Speed PTZ for 360° Coverage
- 6 infrared LEDs
- Pan & Tilt
- 4X Optical Zoom
- Power over Ethernet
- IP66 Waterproof
RLC-420
Those looking for a Reolink camera that can get the most detailed footage under any light condition have found a winner. The sensor comes with 18 LEDs and advanced infrared tech. With coverage of up 100 feet, this device can get recordings of large areas even in the dark.
- 5MP/4MP Super HD
- Easy PoE
- Power over Ethernet
- Audio and Mic
- IP66 Waterproof
- Motion Detection
RLC-410
Those who have the possibility of connecting an ethernet cord to their Reolink cameras can get a very stable connection that never lags or falters.
- Power over Ethernet
- Audio Recording
- IP66 Waterproof
- Motion Detection
RLC-511
The 5MP resolution and optical zoom that come with the device have nothing to envy to those of the Reolink argus 2. Its reliable ethernet connection and powerful night vision mean that the user will never have to lose detail, not even at night or in areas with poor reception.
- 5MP PoE Camera
- 4X Optical Zoom
- Power over Ethernet
- 100ft Night Vision
- IP66 Waterproof
RLC-422
Tired of blurry footage? This gadget comes with an auto-focus lens to record crystal clear videos always. Then, they are uploaded to the Reolink cloud so that the client can access them. It also has an IK10 certification, which proves that it is almost impossible for vandals to break it.
- IK10 Vandal Resistant
- 5MP Super HD
- 4X Optical Zoom
- Power over Ethernet
RLN16-410
This storage device allows customers to keep a local copy of everything the Reolink reviews. It can support all types of videos, even those recorded in 4K, and write them on the disk at a very rapid speed. All this is without having to resort to the Reolink cloud.
- 16-Channel PoE NVR
- 24/7 Continuous Recording
- Support up to 4K
- Power over Ethernet
- 16-Channel
- 3TB HDD Built-in
RLN8-410
This mid-level model was designed to meet the needs of home-owners who want to record everything that goes on at home, but they do not have too many cams. Thanks to its SDD disk, the writing speeds are lighting fast.
- 8-Channel PoE NVR
- 24/7 Reliable Recording
- Support up to 4K
- Power over Ethernet
- 8-Channel
- 2TB HDD Built-in
PoE & WiFi Security Camera Systems
The company has many different types of products in its catalog. The cams can be divided into those that are powered over ethernet (PoE) and those that rely on a Wi-Fi connection. Both systems have their pros and cons. Discover them below.
RLK8-800B4
With a viewing angle of 97 degrees, this camera covers a wide area, even at night. It comes with 18 LED lights that allow it to record even in the darkest of nights with a vivid level of detail. Its 4k resolution means that it can deliver up to four times higher quality than 1080p recordings.
RLK8-800D4
This surveillance kit permits having above-average footage, thanks to the UHD videos. Those who have a good ethernet cable can connect these devices and receive stable connections for better security. The FTP equipment has reliable writing speeds, including audio recordings.
RLK16-800B8
Those who want a smooth viewing experience will be satisfied with what this model has to offer. It records up to 20 frames per second, which allows it to follow the people in the video very closely. It also has 4K quality, so the camera also offers a deep level of detail.
Audio is also one of the strong points of this cam, and it records it for the user to hear everything that the possible burglars are saying.
RLK8-410B4
First-time users should not worry about the setup process with this gadget. It is one of the easiest to install in the market. It has a PoE system, which means that it receives its power over the Internet.
It has a single cable that goes to each camera and then connects them to the NVR. In this way, the devices receive the charge they need to work, and the recorder gets the data.
RLK8-520D4
This camera has a somewhat reduced viewing angle of 80 degrees (even smaller than that of the Reolink Argus 2). Despite this, it stands out for recording at 30 frames per second.
As a result, it has some of the smoothest videos in the field, with no freezes or lags.
RLK8-410B2D2
This security kit records 24/7 to ensure maximum protection at all times. This is why it was prepared with the latest night vision tech. It works over an ethernet connection, which helps make the connection more reliable.
The set includes an 8 channel NVR, which keeps all of the important info safe.
RLK16-800D8
Thanks to the PoE system, this device is super easy to install for beginners. One only has to connect each camera to the NVR through the ethernet wires.
When this is done, the devices only have to be mounted where they go, and one can start monitoring from his phone.
RLK16-410B8
With an NVR of 3TB, this kit is ideal for those who want to keep large amounts of data on their storage. This is great since the cams record both video and audio at a very high quality.
These files take more storage space than the ones gotten by regular devices. So, all this extra space comes in handy.
RLK8-420D4
Thanks to the Android and Apple apps, this system can send data to its users. No matter in which part of the world one is, he can keep track of what is going on at home 24/7.
It includes many cams in the set, so all the house is covered. All of them are connected to the 2TB NVR, where all the info they get is processed and stored.
RLK4-410B4
With four units, this set is ideal for those who want to cover every corner of a small house. It also comes with a 1TB NVR, which may seem small at first sight, but is more than enough to save enough videos.
It is effortless to install thanks to its plug and play system.
RLK4-211WB4-S
People who are in the market for an accurate system that detects any movement should look no further. The PIR and pixel motion detection technology make it one of the most reliable in this aspect.
It can distinguish bugs from pets, from humans. So, there are no annoying false alarms.
Installation and Setup
The installation process is straightforward, but it will vary depending on the type of device one has purchased.
PoE systems are installed like this:
- Mount the cams where they should go.
- Use the ethernet wire to connect them to the NVR.
- Set up the recording device so that it starts powering the gadgets.
Now, Wi-Fi cams work differently, but they are also very simple to install.
- Download the app.
- Open it and click on the + button.
- Scan the QR code on the device.
- Connect it to the Wi-Fi network and follow the steps on the screen.
Reolink Cameras Price & Packages
Those looking for an individual unit of the most popular devices this brand lists on its catalog, like the Reolink Argus 2, may find it hard to choose between one and the other. The simpler way to pinpoint the differences is by comparing side by side.
Argus 2 | Argus Pro | Go | Argus Eco | Argus PT | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Price per unit | $79.49 | $61.6 | $220.79 | $58.8 | $121.17 |
Resolution | 1080p | 1080p | 1080p | 1080p | 1080p |
Two-way audio | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Weatherproof | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Type of connection | Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi | Cellular | Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi |
Night vision | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Solar-powered | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Battery | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Viewing angle | 130 degrees | 130 degrees | 110 degrees | 100 degrees | 105 degrees |
Real-time alerts | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Security Camera Systems
Those who need a whole system to take care of a home will find that buying individual cams as the Reolink Go will not suffice. Luckily, there are kits specially designed for these cases. They include an NVR and many devices to cover a large property.
RLK8-800D4 | RLK8-800B4 | RLK16-800B8 | RLK16-800D8 | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Price per kit | $529.99 | $529.99 | $899.99 | $899.99 |
Channels | 8 | 8 | 16 | 16 |
Storage | 2TB HDD | 2TB HDD | 3TB HDD | 3TB HDD |
Type of connection | Ethernet | Ethernet | Ethernet | Ethernet |
Resolution | 4k | 4k | 4k | 4k |
Number of LEDs | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 |
Night vision | 100 ft. | 100 ft. | 100 ft. | 100 ft. |
Viewing angle | 87.5 degrees | 97 degrees | 97 degrees | 87.5 degrees |
Weatherproof | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Audio | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Accessories
People who want to complement their security systems to improve them are in luck. There are plenty of accessories that enhance the functionalities of individual devices, like the Reolink c1 pro.
- Solar Panel – $29.99
- Rechargeable Battery – Argus 2 – $24.99
- Argus Wall Mount (3-Pack) – $9.99
- Argus 2 Skin Full Suit – $9.99
- Argus Skin Full Suit – $12.99
- 5m Solar Panel Extension Cable – $9.99
- Bracket – 423 Series – $9.99
- Bracket – 422 Series – $9.99
- Bracket – C Series – $9.99
- Ethernet Cable – $12.99 (18m), $16.99 (30m)
- Power Extension Cable – $7.99 (4.5m), $12.99 (18m)
- 3m USB cable – $6.99
- Power Adapter 5V/2A – $12.99
- Power Adapter 12V/2A – $12.99
- Power Adapter 48V/2.5A – $35
- Camera Antenna (2-Pack) – $9.99
- NVR Antenna (2-Pack) – $9.99
- USB Mouse – $12.99
- HDMI Cable – $12.99
- Waterproof Lid (for Ethernet cable) (2-Pack), $9.99
Plans
Those who want to keep the information obtained with their Reolink camera safe can request access to the company’s plans. They were designed for simplicity. And the clients who want to get a taste first can use the free basic plan. Here is what they have to offer.
Though the price of the plans is very low, remember that the cost of the equipment is low. The good news is that once the user has the cam, the monthly fee is very affordable.
Basic Plan | Standard Plan | Premier Plan | Business Plan | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Periodicity | Free | Monthly or yearly | Monthly or yearly | Monthly or yearly |
Video history length | 7 days | 30 days | 30 days | 60 days |
Number of devices | 1 | 5 | 10 | 20 |
Storage | 1GB | 30GB | 80GB | 150GB |
Original monthly price | Free | $4.99 | $9.99 | $14.99 |
Discounted monthly price | Free | $3.49 | $6.99 | $10.49 |
Original yearly price | Free | $49.99 | $99 | $149 |
Discounted yearly price | Free | $34.99 | $69 | $104 |
Ease of Use
This company takes pride in the simplicity of its products. All of them, from the Reolink C2 Pro to the NVRs, are very easy to set up. The wireless systems only have to be connected through the QR codes. Then, they can be easily controlled via the app.
The PoE devices have to be plugged on one end to the device and on the other to the NVR. Then, they can be used just like the wireless ones.
Customer Experience
The company has many policies in place to ensure that its customers are satisfied with the product. Read on to see how they work and whether clients are happy with the overall service.
Terms and Guarantees
The company has a very good refund policy in place. If the client is not satisfied with the product for any reason, he can return it within 30 days and get a full refund. It is also possible to ask for a replacement and get a different product. For this, he will be in charge of paying the shipping fees.
In case the product was defective, the company covers all the fees. If this is done beyond the 30 days, but within the year, one can ask for a replacement or repair of the product.
The units always have to be sent in their original packaging, with their safety seal intact. Also, it has to be in the same condition as received, without any changes.
Customer Support
The team has two main channels through which it services its customers. One is the form on their site. People are asked to fill it with their data and some info regarding the problem. Then, they only have to wait for the team to contact them back.
The other way is by phone. They can call the number +00852-3069 6581 from Mondays to Fridays, from 08 am to 06 pm (UTC+8).
The company does not provide any email address through which one can contact them. So, the users who prefer this method will have to adapt and use only the ones available.
Reviews
Most previous clients are satisfied with what this brand offers. Their gadgets have some of the best footage quality in the market, both during the day and at night. The build is very sturdy and withstands harsh weather conditions.
The only thing some people have complained about is the high cost of the devices. While many say that it is worth the investment, it can still be much money for some. Yet, these are high-ticket items, so this is common.
FAQ Section
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Is This Brand Any Good?
Yes. The brand offers products of the highest quality. The resolution of its cams is 1080p and above. Some of them offer a quality of 5MP, which way above the market standards.
The Reolink Go is one of their best seller products because of the quality of its recordings together with its complete set of features.
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Does It Require a Subscription?
No, it does not. The devices come with a free subscription to the company’s cloud storage. Though it has some limitations, it works very well. Those who want to have all the functionalities can pay for a higher plan or keep their info safe in an NVR or Sd card. But this is completely optional.
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Are These Cameras Secure?
Yes, they are. They have some of the latest techs in the market. Many of them have protection anti vandals. In this way, they cannot be hacked under most circumstances.
They also have a motion detection system that allows keeping an eye on everything that goes on at home.
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How Long Does the Battery Last?
With normal usage, the battery will last between one and four weeks. This is as long as the device is completely charged. Of course, this can vary if the area has poor signal reception, among other reasons.
To ensure that the camera is always charged, one can use the solar panel.
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Can the Cameras Be Hacked?
This would be very hard. No gadget is completely hacker-proof. If a pro wants to override the system’s security, after making an effort, they could achieve it.
Still, the brand takes all the standard precautions to prevent this. So, it is highly unlikely to happen.
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How Much Data Does the Go Use?
Similar to what happens with the Reolink Argus 2, the usage will depend on many factors. One of them is the bitrate that the user chose for the footage.
Also, the quality of the video will affect this, since a better resolution requires more resources.
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Does It Work With Blue Iris?
Yes, many of them do. These systems have been known to have problems when working together in the past. But these glitches have been solved, and there should be no issues now.
In this way, any user can pair them up and start using them side by side.
Reolink Cameras Pros & Cons
Besides reading a Reolink cameras review, users should study in depth all the strong and weak points of having a device of this brand. Whether it is a Reolink C2 pro or any other model, knowing this will allow making the right decision. Discover these points below!
Pros:
- High-quality videos
- Wireless and ethernet systems
- Wide variety of options
- Anti-vandal systems
- Top-notch night vision
Cons:
- Expensive units
- Heavy files
What’s in It With This Brand?
Those who do not mind spending a bit more money will be happy with the performance of these devices. They have some of the best quality in the market, both in terms of footage and build. Besides, the brand also offers a wide array of gadgets to suit every need.