Anyone know a good outdoor surveillance system?

Security Systems & Alarms Forum
1

I made the mistake of getting motion-only cameras like Eufy and Ring.

If I could go back, I’d avoid them for these reasons:
They often miss important moments
Need to be charged regularly
Record for just a minute or two, which isn’t always enough

Now I’m on the hunt for continuous recording cameras. Here’s what I need:
Internal storage
Continuous recording
PoE
Motion detection features
Notification alerts

I get that PoE cameras are usually part of NVR setups, so DVRs may not be the best. When it comes to detection, is that software built into DVR-like devices?

Is there a solid system that meets these needs (ideally with a one-time payment and no subscriptions)?

Thanks!

2

Depends on your budget.

If you want the best user experience, Unifi Protect is great. It’s pricey, but the user experience is top-notch.

For a lower budget with all the important features and a solid app, try Reolink with their AI cameras.

3

@Griff
I’m trying to keep it under $300-400. I know user experience and features matter, but I’m hoping to check out some open-source options too.

4

Pippin said:
@Griff
I’m trying to keep it under $300-400. I know user experience and features matter, but I’m hoping to check out some open-source options too.

There are open-source options. I use a mix of Unifi/Frigate with Amcrest, Reolink, and Dahua cameras. If you’re not looking for something super specialized, Reolink is a good and affordable choice for a basic camera system.

5

I just bought a wireless NVR system from Reolink, and it’s been great. We got four outdoor cameras and an NVR that supports up to 12 cameras for under $500.

6

Wilkie said:
I just bought a wireless NVR system from Reolink, and it’s been great. We got four outdoor cameras and an NVR that supports up to 12 cameras for under $500.

Thanks, I’ve been seeing a lot of suggestions for Reolink. I’ll definitely check it out.

7

I’ve actually been happy with my hardwired Eufy cameras. They do have a continuous recording option under settings.

8

There are tons of options out there, but it depends on how much you’re willing to spend. Even stores like Sam’s Club, Home Depot, Costco, and Lowe’s sell systems (both analog and PoE). Testing different ones over the years, I found that PoE systems with one cable for power and data are the best.

9

@Ori
I get that trying different systems helps, but that’s why I’m asking for advice to narrow down options. ONVIF compatibility seems like the safest route.

10

Pippin said:
@Ori
I get that trying different systems helps, but that’s why I’m asking for advice to narrow down options. ONVIF compatibility seems like the safest route.

I’ve spent some money testing different brands. Amcrest is one I like. It depends on how many cameras you need. You could start with a 4-channel system to test it out; it’s cheaper that way. You might want to watch some YouTube reviews—that’s where I learned a lot.

11

I just got a Lorex system for $250 that I connected to 4 older outdoor cameras, and it’s been great.

12

Reolink cameras have been working well for me.

13

Reolink PoE cameras are the best budget option I can suggest.