Wyze Camera Review: Are Unbelievably Good Rates Enough?

Wyze Camera Review: In-Depth

The Wyze cam includes all the best features that we have come to expect, and it does so at an unbelievably good price. But is there a catch? Do all these features work as the audio and storage should or are they affected by the low cost? Discover that and much more in this Wyze camera review.

Key Features

• Live streaming
• Wide field of view
• Advanced app
• Smart home integration
• Night vision
• 1080p definition

Background Information

This security company was created not long ago, in 2017. Still, in a very short time, they have been able to grow at an unbelievable rate and become a reputed brand in the field. This is mainly because they offer high-end cameras and audio devices at incredibly low rates.

It is based in Seattle and has around 30 employees who are in charge of many different areas, from marketing to design every day. The company was founded by four former Amazon employees who wanted to start their own security business.

Since its beginning, the company has been expanding its catalogue at a very rapid pace. It started with only an affordable indoor camera, and now it has over 10 products. Most of them are related to video security, but some were designed to help make houses smart and automate many free tasks.

The most important ones are:

• Cam
• V2
• Pan
• Sense
• Bulb
• Plug
• Lock
• Band
• Scale
• Outdoor

Features: Complete and Affordable

The company includes some very advanced features in their best devices. They have all the basics that are common in the company and can compete with some of the most expensive competitors in the industry.

Mobile Alerts: Immediate Action

When something suspicious is going on at home, the security video device will notify the user through his phone. By doing so, he will be able to take action and prevent burglars from breaking in, for example.

The system’s algorithm was fine-tuned to keep it from sending audio alerts without a good reason. So, the client will not have to worry about pets setting it off, for example.

Wireless Equipment: A Secure System

The devices of this brand do not need to be connected with wires to work well. This makes them easier to install since one only has to pair them up with a phone via the cloud as well as it makes them more secure because burglars will not be able to cut the cables and prevent the video device from working.

This feature applies not only to the Wyze cam outdoor but also to all the other indoor equipment that this brand has to offer.

1080p HD: Details Everywhere

Almost all cams in the market come with this resolution now. This is pretty good since it gives a fantastic resolution to see all the necessary details. This means that one can recognize the faces of the burglars without having to strain one’s eyes.

Smart Home Integration: Automate Every Device

The Wyze cams are compatible with several automation systems, like the one by Google. This allows users to control them at will with minimum effort. For example, they can stream the footage on the TV with just their voice.

They can also do many other things, like setting up triggers that make the cams do something specific when another thing happens.

Alexa: Control Everything By Voice

This smart home system is compatible only with the Wyze cam v2. But the good news is that they work very well together. Alexa allows connecting the Wyzecam to several Echo devices, like the Show, Spot, and Fire TV.

Yet, the negative part is that it was not possible to use it to talk to the people on the other side of the cam. And neither can one use the smart home option to arm and disarm the alarm system, for example.

IFTTT: A Way to Make Life Simpler

The app was designed to allow users to set specific triggers. So, when something in particular happens, the Wyze camera reacts in a specific manner. This creates endless possibilities. For example, if the camera is deactivated, the lights will turn on. Such a feature could come in handy for when one is arriving at home.

Two-Way Voice: Communicate With the Outside

The Wyze security camera comes with a mic and a speaker in order to allow the user to communicate with people on the other end. They can talk directly to their phones and what they say will come out on the other side. Then, they can also hear the responses straight from the app.

Night Vision: Works at All Hours

No matter the time of day, the Wyzecam aims at keeping the home safe all the time. This is why they include infrared sensors to be able to monitor strangers even in the darkest night. All this can be streamed straight from the app, just like with any other footage.

High Definition: Capture Everything

The Wyze cams record at 1080p, which allows them to capture up to the tiniest detail of what is going on during the day. Even if the other person is not very close, users should be able to see their faces thanks to the high resolution. This is paired with top-notch audio.

Even though this is the industry standard, this brand has a very nice implementation that has nothing to envy to its competitors.

Motion Tagging: Keep an Eye on Everything

As soon as the indoor Wyze camera reviews movement, it starts recording to keep proof of any suspicious activity. Yet, in the first version of this device, it was hard to see what triggered the recording, since the clip was only 12 seconds long.

Now, the Wyze cam v2 solves this by highlighting the area where the movement took place. This is why it is called motion tagging.

Cloud Storage: Save Everything on the Web

Not only does the Wyze camera review the home’s surroundings, but it also keeps all that data safe on its storage. While many others depend on SD cards for this, this device also offers the option of keeping all that info on the cloud storage. This means that it is encrypted and protected for any attack, as well as easily accessible.

Live Video Streaming: See What Happens on the Spot

Those who do not want to pay a monthly fee can just monitor their homes themselves. This is where this feature comes in handy.

Users can watch and hear what is going on on the other side of the Wyze cam pan straight from their phones. Then, if they see something suspicious, they can call the police or a neighbour.

The best part is that many have access to this from the cloud storage so that they can take turns to keep an eye on the house.

Equipment Installation

The company has a complete catalog that covers all the main areas necessary to ensure safety and home automation, even with Google. Fortunately, setting everything up is super simple in 2021. So, one can have the house ready in very little time.

Cam V2: The Latest Release

The Wyze Cam V2 is the new version that came to replace the original. It still retains most of the favourite features of the previous model, like the minimalistic design, but improves on a lot of aspects.

It comes with all the benefits that people have come to expect of devices of this sort, such as:

• Two-way talk
• 1080p HD resolution
• Infrared night vision
• Personalized motion alerts
• Live video streaming

Though it looks great, the sleek design means having a short-lived battery. Besides, this also entails that the Wyze cam v2 is not the sturdiest one around. Thus, it does not survive dust and rain, which makes it more suitable to be indoors.

So, overall, this device offers a great design and advanced functionalities at a reasonable price for 2021 standards, but those who want to protect their homes from the outside may want to keep on looking.

Cam Pan: Looks All Around the Room

The Wyze cam pan offers a lot of the same as the previous model, but with a free extra.

• It covers a much ampler viewing angle of 360 degrees. This is not very common in the industry, and it is one of the things that makes it stand out.
• So, not only does the Wyze cam review a room by scanning from side to side, but it can also do it at night, just like the other model.
• Those who want to communicate can use the two-way talk.
• The lens alone has an angle of 120 degrees. This, together with the panning action of the Wyze cam pan means that nothing will escape it.
• It takes the device less than three seconds to cover the whole 360 degrees, so it can follow any moving object thanks to the motion detection and tagging.

The best is that this unique feature comes at just a very small price difference in comparison with the previous model. So, those looking for a more advanced model without breaking the bank should seriously consider the Wyze cam pan.

Accessories: Covers the Basics

Though the competition has a wider range of products under its belt, this brand decided to focus on quality rather than quantity. Besides, they offer all the basic equipment necessary to get started.

Sense: A Sensor that Knows It All

This small gadget is a sensor that keeps an eye on many things. For starters, it checks which doors and windows open and sends an alert straight away.

It also detects motion so that if someone is already inside, they will be sensed. Just remember that it needs to be paired with a Wyze cam to work.

Bulb: Control It at Will

This smart bulb can be controlled with just one’s voice. The user simply has to say whether he wants it on or off, and the gadget will comply. It can also be scheduled to go on at certain times, and the client can even set the level of warmth and brightness.

This home automation device works only together with Sense.

Plug (2-pack): Make Everything Smart

This device allows turning any power outlet into a smart connection. It works with Google Home and Alexa, so its level of compatibility is high. Users can review the status of each plug from their phones thanks to the app.

The design is super compact so as to prevent the whole plug from becoming cumbersome. It can also be scheduled to turn on and off at specific times. So, for example, the coffee maker can start working 15 minutes the customer wakes up, so his coffee is ready ones he gets up.

32GB MicroSDHC Card Class: Keep the Info Safe

Those who want to keep a record of the footage the Wyze cams get will need to expand its storage. For that, this is the best option available. It is produced by the same company as the cam, so full compatibility is guaranteed.

This is the maximum size that the Wyze cam can support. It can contain up to two days of HD footage or seven days of regular quality.

Lock: Be in Charge of Who Goes in

This smart device will lock and unlock the doors, depending on the context. It detects when the owner is approaching and opens the door for them. Then, when they are inside, the gadget locks it again.

It also allows the owner to grant and revoke access to the home at will. This can also be paired with a keypad with which the customers can unlock the door and enter their homes without having to rely on the app.

Smart Home Starter Pack: All the Basics in One Place

This pack includes everything users will need to have a safe and smart home. For security, it includes a Wyze cam together with Sense. So, it can keep track of everything that is going indoors and notify the user. Besides, it also has an SD card to save a copy of the most important footage the camera reviews.

For automation, it has three smart bulbs and two plugs. This will make it much easier to boost the functionality of the appliances at home.

Cam Pan Mounting Kit: Install It Securely

Those who want to set up in their homes this version of the Wyze cam will highly appreciate having this kit around. It has a USB cable that works with the two models that this company has in its catalog. It also includes a movable base that was designed to allow the device to cover all the areas in the room. It has all the screws and anchors to make sure that the installation process takes place swiftly.

Surge Protector: Don’t Let Power Take Control

This is the best gadget around to protect the Wyze cam from power surges. It has three USB ports, so it also works many devices at the same time. So, it can be used with smartphones, computers, cameras, and any other small appliance that uses this sort of plug.

Also, this protector is completely independent of the internet, so having a slow connection will not affect its performance. Its design is flat and small, so it can in almost any part of the house and go unnoticed.

Installation and Performance

The whole process is very simple and can be carried out in minutes.

This is the way to do it:

1. Download the app and create an account.
2. Open it and tap “Add New Device”.
3. Follow the instructions on the screen.
4. Click and maintain the Setup button.
5. When the light flashes and voice comes out, the device is ready to be paired.
6. Select the right Wi-Fi network and enter the password.
7. Scan the QR code from the phone.
8. After a few seconds, the Wyze cam will be connected. Bear in mind that it may have to install some upgrades to start working.

Wyze Camera Price Packages

The main products of this company in 2021 are its two cameras. They are quite similar in most regards, but there are a few key differences that may make some users prefer the more advanced model. Discover how they differ below.

Cam V2

This is the entry-level Wyze cam that the brand lists in their catalog. It comes with everything that is expected of this type of device. Such is the case of night vision, two-way talk, live streaming, and full HD resolution. The best part is that all of this comes at a very affordable price of $19.99.

Cam Pan

This is the top-of-the-line Wyze cam. It is pretty similar to the previous model, but it is set apart by its super-wide viewing angle. Not only does its lens cover a much ampler area, but it also pans around to cover a whole room. And this unique upgrade comes at only $10 more, meaning it costs $29.99.

Equipment Prices

This brand is not only about the Wyze cam. There are many other gadgets that help make a good experience. They are all quite affordable for the market’s standards.

• Sense – $5.99
• Bulb – $7.99
• Plug (2-pack) – $14.99
• 32GB MicroSDHC Card Class – $9.99
• Lock – $99.99
• Smart Home Starter Pack – $99
• Pan Mounting Kit – $8.99
• Surge Protector – 9.99

Plans: A Nice Addition

Those who would like a bit more flexibility in what they can do with their cameras should consider upgrading and getting the pro plan. With this, the length of the recordings is not limited to 12 seconds and can last as much as necessary.

Also, those who have the free plan receive alerts every time there is movement. But with the paid package, this only happens when the motion comes from a human. Besides, those who pay can also save their footage on the cloud storage for 14 days and access it from their phones.

This costs only $1.99 if paid monthly. But those who decide to pay for the whole year upfront receive a 37.2% discount, which gives a total of $14.99 yearly, or $1.25 per month.

Ease of Use

The whole system is very simple to use. After everything is set up, there is not much for the user to do other than checking the alerts. When one receives a notification, he should just tap on it to see what triggered it. In this way, if something suspicious is going on, the person can just call the police and let them deal with the whole issue.

Customer Experience

This company tries to please its customers in many ways to offer them a good experience. It does so through its terms and support teams. Check out what they offer below!

Terms and Guarantees

The company has a very lenient return policy. But it applies only to the products bought from their stores. Those who purchased the item from a third-party seller should contact the person they bought it from.

The products can be returned within 30 days without having to give any explanation. Just bear in mind that it has to be like new or else it will not be accepted.

Customer Support

The company receives queries and complaints through internal messages and via live chat. They are available to answer all the comments, and questions from Monday to Friday, from 5 am to 6 pm PT, and on Saturdays, from 8 am to 4 pm PT. There is also the option to ask the community for help and read the forums to see if anyone had a similar doubt.

Reviews

Most users have only good things to say about this brand. They praise Wyze cams incredibly low prices and excellent quality. The resolution is very high, and the materials are good too.

The only big issue that this company had was a security leak a few years ago. It did not last much, but some important data was compromised. Since then, the company has taken many precautions to solve this issue and help prevent it from happening ever again.

FAQ Section

• Is There a Monthly Fee for the Cam?

  Not necessarily. Once the cameras are paid for, the client can just use them for free without having to pay any plan. Yet, those who want to can upgrade the service and get the pro plan.

  For only $1.99 per month, people can get more accurate notifications, cloud storage, and longer videos. Still, this is not compulsory.

• Are the Cameras Wireless?

  No, they are not. They have wires, which have to be plugged into a power outlet in order for the Wyze cam to work as it should. Without this, the device will simply not turn on.

  The devices do come with batteries, but they are only for power outages. In this way, if people go looting, the cams will capture everything.

• Is Owned by Amazon?

  No, it is not. It was founded by ex-Amazon employees, but they do not work in that company any longer, and it does not have any power over this brand.

  The two brands are close, but none of them owns the other one.

• Can the Cameras Be Used Outside?

  The Wyze cam outdoor was designed to be used outside since it was prepared to resist the harsh weather, such as rain, snow, and dust.

  Just make sure not to install the regular Wyze cam outside the house, or it will be probably.

• Can the Camera Be Hacked?

  It could, but it is highly unlikely. Every technological device could be hacked by an expert, but this gadget has all the latest tech to prevent this as much as possible.

  One clear example is its backup battery, which allows it to keep recording even if there is a power outage.

• How Long Does the Camera Battery Last?

  The battery life usually lasts for six months if it is well taken care of. It will allow it to record up to 10 hours at one stretch, but this is usually not necessary.

  In most cases, the Wyze security camera will only use this during power outages, which should not last that long.

• How Are Wyze Cameras So Cheap?

  This is because the company has a business model that relies on selling a large number of devices. The hardware is produced in China to reduce costs, and the company only produces the software. This gives a low margin if only a few cameras are sold.

  But if this is added up to a large number of shipped devices, it gives a sound business model that sells affordable products.

Wyze Camera Pros & Cons

When getting a Wyze cam, one is trusting the company with one’s safety. So, before doing something like this, it is always better to make sure that one understands all the strengths and weaknesses of these systems. Discover them below!

Is It All Worth It?

All in all, the Wyze cam delivers what it promises: superb quality at very low prices. And the best part is that it does so without making cuts on any important areas, like resolution or durability.

Those who are looking for a good, affordable option to protect their homes will find that this product will meet most of their needs.