I’m trying to find some good recommendations for cameras to keep an eye on my property. It’s 640 acres with livestock and hunting areas. I need to install about 50 cameras along the perimeter, all battery-powered and cellular-enabled since Wi-Fi is not an option. I’m using Moultrie Edge cameras right now, but the app only supports 24 cameras (I’ve already talked to customer service). Any advice would be much appreciated.
Why not get another 24 cameras, make a new account, and keep the login info on a note page so you can easily switch between them? It doesn’t seem like you’re having any issues with the ones you have right now.
If you don’t want to log in and out all the time, you could also just get a second phone. It’s not ideal, but maybe you already have a work phone and a personal one anyway?
You might want to check out the Arlo Go. It has great cellular coverage and good image quality for a large property like yours.
You could try using a 4G modem and a Wi-Fi mesh network. This way, you can use Wi-Fi cameras that connect through the cellular modem. You can save money by using a few 4G modems along with a Wi-Fi router or even a mesh system. I’ve linked a couple of options below.
Hikvision DS-2XS6A47G1-IZS/C36S80
Fin said:
Hikvision DS-2XS6A47G1-IZS/C36S80
That’s a bit out of my price range. What I’m really after is a camera brand or security app that can handle 50 or more cameras and works with cellular connections.
@Oaklan
A 50-camera setup is going to be expensive no matter what. You could go cheap with cameras that won’t work well and won’t last, or you could spend a little more upfront and get quality cameras that will last longer.
From my experience, you get what you pay for.
What’s your budget per camera, if you don’t mind me asking?
@Fin
We’re currently using 24 Moultrie Edge cameras, about $50 each. We have a deal with the manufacturer where the subscription is $10 per month per camera. It’s been working for a year or two, and we replace the batteries when needed. I’d get more cameras but like I mentioned, the app only supports 24 at a time.
Budget-wise, maybe $200 per camera max. Thanks for the help, I’ll discuss it with my dad.
@Oaklan
I’m curious what a $50 camera gets you. Could you share a picture or video? I’m guessing you’re using a 4G SIM card for it?
Personally, I wouldn’t go with Reolink, but if you want something cheap, this is probably the most reasonable option: Reolink Duo 2 LTE | 2K+ 180° Panoramic Dual-Lens 4G Camera | Reolink Official
@Fin
I’ve posted a picture, check my profile.
You can see the specs here: Moultrie Mobile EDGE Cellular Trail Camera | Cabela’s (cabelas.com)
We’ve had them for over a year with no issues. We’ve had to replace batteries, but we use rechargeable ones to save money. My only complaint is that the app limits us to just 24 cameras on one account.
Fin said:
Hikvision DS-2XS6A47G1-IZS/C36S80
Thanks, though!