I will be spending half the year abroad and plan to rent out both units of my duplex. I need reliable outdoor security cameras that can be monitored from overseas. After extensive research, I’ve found that no camera is perfect—many have design flaws or significant privacy concerns. I don’t want to support Amazon or Google, so Nest and Ring are out for ethical reasons as they seem sketchy to me. I considered Lorex, but their poor customer service reviews deterred me—I don’t want to waste time dealing with bots over small issues. I’m leaning towards Eufy, but I’m uncertain about their local storage system. I’m willing to pay for cloud storage, but I’ve heard Eufy’s cloud storage reduces image quality, and it doesn’t automatically record when in live view, which is inconvenient. Now I’m wondering if I should just go with Ring since it’s more popular and easier to set up. Lastly, I live in Maine, where temperatures can drop to -14°F, but most cameras, except Lorex, can only handle -4°F. Any advice would be appreciated!
Just research POE systems and save yourself from the future headaches.
Oh no this complicates my search more lol had never heard of POE systems, just looked it up and still don’t feel like I have a great idea. Does that basically just mean that it’s wired? Do you think it’s actually feasible for someone who is very not tech savvy?
Yes, it’s a hard wired system using a single ethernet cable for power and data. Installation depends on the house and how much/little you want to hide the wires but from a setup process, I believe the newer systems are just plug and play. Simply connect it to your network and configure remote viewing and you’re good to go, no wifi or batteries to worry about ever. Plus it records 24/7 locally even when your internet is down or power is out if you add a UPS.
Yes, it’s a hard wired system using a single ethernet cable for power and data. Installation depends on the house and how much/little you want to hide the wires but from a setup process, I believe the newer systems are just plug and play. Simply connect it to your network and configure remote viewing and you’re good to go, no wifi or batteries to worry about ever. Plus it records 24/7 locally even when your internet is down or power is out if you add a UPS.
Thank you. Is there a specific brand or type that you recommend?
I have an old commercial system that I’m looking to fully upgrade to all Reolink products. I’ve read many positive reviews on Reolink cameras but maybe browse this sub to see what others recommend from real world experience.
To monitor remotely from abroad check out https://cctvsecuritypros.com. They have no monthly fees for internet and cell phone viewing. Best of luck to you !
Wireless cams are basically toys. we install cams for people. we usually replace Arlo, Ring, Nest, and Blink.
I like Reolink. it has AI and vehicle detection. 4 cams with 6tb hard drive is about $600. pretty easy to set up as seen here https://youtu.be/XXpYhUU02G4
But it looks like Reolink is powered through cellular only? I am in a complete dead zone so that won’t work for me. ReoLink GO Solar Powered Camera Review | Security.org
reolink is powered by 12v dc or poe. the NVR gets online via a CAT5 cable, plug that into your router if u want to view remotely
I bought a set of four cameras with an NVR for $670, only to discover I needed a POE switch for $100 and another $100 for Ethernet cables. Then I found out the installer I’m paying $50 an hour expects it to take between 8 to 16 hours. He later agreed to cap his charge at $500, but honestly, I never would have started this project if I had known it would cost me nearly $1,500. I think I’d rather spend $400 on Arlo cameras, even if they’re not perfect, than shell out $1,500 for top-of-the-line ones. Despite investing so much time into this, I can’t justify spending that much money, so I’m probably going to return everything.