Reolink 4K PoE security camera system review

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How wise to invest for Reolink 4K PoE security camera system? Perform live views and playbacks on your smart device (iPhone, Android, iPad) via WiFi or 3G/4G connection. The free Reolink app allows you to access all your cameras remotely, no matter how many you have. This is perfect for both beginner camera users and DIY enthusiasts. A simple PoE connection makes it easier to set-up and install your home security camera system. With one single network cable, users can enjoy smooth security coverage of their entire house. Get more in Reolink 4K PoE security camera system review.

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In the box

  • 1 x 8CH 8MP NVR RLN8-410
  • 4 x 8MP PoE Cameras B800
  • 1 x 48V NVR adaptor
  • 1 x 1M Cat5 Cable
  • 4 x 18M Cat5 Cables
  • 1 x 1M HDMI Cable
  • 1 x USB Mouse
  • 1 x Quick Start Guide Brochure

Specifications – Reolink 4K PoE security camera system

PoE IP Camera Specifications
  • Image Sensor: 1/2.8″ CMOS, 8MP (3840 × 2160)
  • Lens: f=4.0mm F=2.0
  • Night Vision: 100ft, 18pcs IR LEDs
  • Sound: Built-in Microphone
  • Viewing Angle: Horizontal: 87°; Vertical: 47°
  • Power: Power over Ethernet (PoE)
  • Working Temperature: -10°C +55°C (14°-131°F)
PoE Network Video Recorder Specifications
  • HDD Capacity: 1× internal port, 1× external port, 4TB for each port (Supports up to 8TB)
  • PoE Sockets: RJ45 × 8
  • USB Port: USB 2.0 × 2
  • Working Temperature: -10°C +45°C (14°-113°F)
  • IP Video Input: Supports 8 IP cameras
  • Video Outputs: Monitor or HDTV via VGA, HDMI
  • Synchronous Playback: 1CH@8MP; 4CH@4MP
  • Frame Rate: 20fps; Compression Format: H.265
  • HDD Installed: Pre-installed a 2TB HDD
  • Remote Access: iPhone/Android Phone App, Windows/Mac PC, IE, Firefox, Chrome, Safari Web Browser

Pros & Cons – Reolink 4K PoE security camera system

PROS
  • Flexible, easy installation
  • Huge selection of products and accessories
  • No contracts
  • Full wireless capability, indoors and outdoors
  • Battery and solar-powered cameras
  • Full HD resolution
  • Low-cost cloud storage
CONS
  • Motion detection may be oversensitive
  • No integration with smart devices for battery-operated cameras
  • Limited feature set in most models
  • App response times can be slow
  • Relies heavily on Wi-Fi connection

What is the best Reolink 4K PoE security camera system?

RLN8-410 8-Channel 5MP/4MP PoE Security NVR

24/7 Continuous Recording
If you want 24/7 video recording or if you have multiple IP cameras to manage, this Reolink NVR is your best choice.

• Pre-installed 2TB HDD for 24/7 recording and monitoring
• Support all cameras recording at the same time (up to 8 cameras)
• If you want longer recording, try motion detection recording, which will trigger recording only when motion is detected
• Allow you to install an external hard disk drive via e-SATA for more storage (up to 4TB)

• Pre-installed 2TB Hard Disk Drive
• Up to 8 Cameras
• Up to 4TB External HDD

Work with All Reolink IP Cameras
Reolink RLN8-410 8-channel PoE NVR can work perfectly with all our IP cameras – including 4K, 5MP, and 4MP PoE/Wi-Fi cameras – for 24/7 recording, motion detections, live views, playback and more features.

PoE – Easy Setup & Real Plug and Play
A real plug and play network video recorder! This RLN8-410 NVR features PoE (Power over Ethernet), with a single network cable connecting each of your IP cameras to the NVR for both power supply and video signal transmission. Easy wiring – the wiring process can’t be simpler for DIY enthusiasts.

Local and Remote Access & Control

For local access and control: 
Connect the system to a monitor or an HD TV.
For remote access and control: Use free Reolink App on a mobile device, Reolink Client on a computer or a web browser (IE).

More Features
Use this NVR with Reolink PoE cameras and you can get a professional, reliable and DIY security camera system. You can play back any recorded video, back up local data, and do more. For more features, refer to RLK8-410B4 NVR security system.

Compare Reolink 4K PoE security camera system vs Swann 8 Channel 2 TB NVR + 8x 4K PoE Cameras

Swann 8 Channel 2 TB NVR + 8x 4K PoE Cameras with Dual LED SpotlightsReolink 16 Channel 4 TB NVR + 8x 5 MP Super HD PoE CamerasReolink 8 Channel 2TB NVR + 4x 5 MP Super HD PoE Cameras
Product Code/ModelSWNVK-886808FB-USRLK16-410B8RLK8-520D4
UsageIndoor and outdoor (IP 66 rated)Indoor and outdoor (IP 66 rated)Indoor and Outdoor (IP 66 rated)
Camera Resolution4KUp to 5 MPUp to 5 MP
Field of View90 degrees80 degrees80 degrees
Night VisionInfrared and color (using spotlights)InfraredInfrared
Night Vision Range-Infrared: Up to 200 feet-Color: Up to 115 feetUp to 100 feetUp to 100 feet
AudioTwo-wayMicrophone onlyMicrophone only
Local Video Storage2 TB Network Video Recorder (NVR)4 TB NVR2 TB NVR
Maximum Number of Cameras8168
Free Cloud Storage-7 days free cloud storage with Swann Secure+ Service-Backup videos and photos to a personal Dropbox accountUpload to user’s File Transfer Protocol (FTP) serverUpload to user’s File Transfer Protocol (FTP) server
Paid Cloud Storage$4.99 per month for each camera or $14.99 per month for up to 10 devicesXX
Paid Cloud Storage Features-60 days of cloud backup-Vehicle and pet detection-Extended warranty-Alerts with snapshots-Free camera replacement if stolen (with a valid police report)XX
Smart Platform IntegrationsAlexa and Google AssistantXX
Artificial IntelligencePerson detection and facial recognition for free, vehicle and pet detection with a paid planXX

RLK8-800B4 4K 8-Channel PoE Security Camera System

4K Ultra HD -Sharpest Ever
4K Ultra HD (8MP, 3840 x 2160) delivers almost 4 times the clarity of 1080p, and by a wide margin, outshines 5MP/4MP Super HD. This superior kit can show the finest key details in vividness, even when you digitally zoom in, so that every ambiguity in video footage you met before is cleared up.

Ultra-Clarity Also at Night
The 18pcs powerful infrared LEDs in each 4K security camera emit invisible lights that pierce the darkness up to 100 feet. Plus, advanced 3D-DNR technology dramatically reduces noise levels – ensuring clearer, sharper and smoother night performance.

• 18pcs Infrared LEDs per Camera
• 100 Feet Night Vision
• 97 Degree Viewing Angle

Smart Motion Alerts
This 4K 8MP security camera system detects motion and sends instant push notification, email and buzzer sound alerts to you. You can enable or disable all kinds of alerts for every PoE cameras respectively.

24/7 Surveillance, Ceaseless Protection
This 8CH 4K PoE NVR security camera system supports simultaneous live feed and 24/7 recording for all cameras. When something unusual is detected, you’ll get notified instantly. Also, you can optimize recording mode and motion zone to better serve your specific security needs. Not only non-stop, but smarter security solution for you!

Replay Events and Moments
Recorded videos can be saved in NVR with built-in 2TB HDD. The intuitive timeline design in Reolink Client or App enables you to easily find the videos of interest and grasp ins and outs of whole things.

Multi-Screen Live Streaming
Access the kit locally by connecting the system to a monitor or an HD TV, or remotely via intuitive Reolink Client, Reolink App or web browsers. View live feeds of all cameras at the same time, which enables all-around control over your world.

Customize Recording Mode
Each camera can be set to record in different mode. 24/7 recording is ideal in high-traffic areas like store entrances, while in lower activity regions like warehouses or at night, motion-triggered recording can help you save storage space.

Work with All Reolink PoE IP Cameras
This 4K home security camera system can be expanded up to 8-camera kit with any Reolink PoE IP cameras without any compatibility issue – bullet, dome or PTZ; 4K, 5MP or 4MP – to fit your specific needs.

Focus on the Areas You Care About
Delineate the specific spots where you want to detect motions and receive alerts. For example, create motion areas around your driveway or front door, which can minimize unwanted alarms from high traffic nearby roads.

Note: The Reolink NVRs work with Reolink security cameras ONLY.

• IP66 Certified Weatherproof
• With Audio (Mic) (Optional)

PoE – Easy Setup, Even for a Beginner
A real plug and play security system! It features PoE (Power over Ethernet), with a single network cable (up to 330ft, whole-house coverage), for both power supply and video signal transmission. Easy wiring – the wiring process can’t be simpler for DIY enthusiasts and beginners.

Ready for Anywhere, Inside & Outside
Feel free to put these 4K Ultra HD PoE cameras anywhere, outdoors or indoors! With IP66 waterproof rating, these cameras will never shrink back in front of the elements, like freezing rain, heavy snow, extreme cold and heat.

• IP66 Certified Weatherproof

B800 4K Ultra HD PoE Security IP Camera

4K UHD – Mirrors Your World
Futuristic 4K Ultra HD Has Arrived. This 4K 8MP IP camera B800 boasts the pixel resolution of 3840×2160, delivering the highest level of imagery like never before. More than just capturing the images, it mirrors the reality.

Compatibility
The B800 PoE security camera cannot work independently and ONLY works when connected to Reolink 8-channel surveillance system or NVR.

• 4K Security Camera System
• 8-Channel NVR

See Through the Darkness
Darkness cannot blind this 4K CCTV camera. Thanks to 18pcs powerful infrared LEDs and enhanced 3D-DNR technology, the camera can capture every move of would-be burglars or naughty fence-jumping animals at night with vivid and noise-free details.

• 18pcs Infrared LEDs
• 100′ Night Vision
• 97 Degree Viewing Angle

24/7 Unfailing Recording & Protection
When added into Reolink video surveillance system, the B800 security IP camera can record not just motion clips, but every single minute of what happened in your home or business. You will never miss a thing.

Smart Motion Alerts
This 4K 8MP security camera can detect motion and notify you instantly through push notifications, emails alerts or buzzer sounds. You can personalize all kinds of alerts to fit your needs.

Live Streaming
Access the camera remotely via user-friendly Reolink Client, Reolink App or web browsers. View live feeds in 4K UHD anytime and stay connected with your world with just simple clicks.

Replay Recorded Moments
Recorded videos can be saved in NVR when B800 is connected to Reolink 4K security camera system RLK8-800B4. The intuitive timeline design in Reolink Client or App enables you to easily find the videos of interest during playback.

Customize Recording Mode
The B800 IP cam can be set to record in different mode. Choose 24/7 recording in high-traffic areas like store entrances. And in lower activity regions or at night, motion-triggered recording can help you save storage space.

Focus on the Areas That Matter
Create the specific areas that you want to receive motion alerts from. It can save you the trouble of unwanted alarms from out of designated areas. Life should not be bothered by nuisances, so should security.

PoE – Easy Setup, Beginner-Friendly
The B800 4K PoE IP camera passes power supply and data transmission via only one Ethernet cable without using separate power wires. Simple setup and reliable Internet connection for long distance (up to 330ft) make B800 ideal for outdoor surveillance.

Rugged for All Weather
The 4K Ultra HD PoE camera features IP66 waterproof rating (its cables too!) and is suitable for both outdoor and indoor installation. Unfazed by rain, snow, hail or other harsh conditions, B800 is a truly year-round security camera.

• IP66 Weatherproof Certified.

Reolink 4K PoE security camera system review

Design

They all weigh one pound, and installation hardware is included in the kit. Their 4K PoE Security Camera System is a set of four cameras that comes with a single control station. Each camera measures 7.4 inches long, and 2.4 inches square. Simply pre-drill your holes, then screw in the base plate and you’re good to go.

Build

The cameras themselves have white aluminum cases, with a powder-coated finish that’s both attractive and weather-resistant. These cameras are the opposite of “hidden”. The lens is large and clearly visible, which provides an excellent deterrent effect. They’re also weather-resistant, with a rating of IP66. This is sufficient for any weather conditions short of total submersion in water. The control station is about the size of a DVD player, and has a sleek, modern look with a black finish

Cable length

In addition to the cameras and the control unit, you also get a set of four 18-meter (about 60-foot) cables. This makes installation quick and painless. And if you need even more length, you can extend the cables to up to 330 feet. Not only that, but Reolink offers a 2-year warranty to protect your purchase. 

Camera

The Reolink 4K PoE Security Camera System lives up to its name with 4K Ultra HD video. This works out to a resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels. As a result, you’re looking at a very versatile camera. For interior use, under most circumstances, 4K is simply overkill. Even at night, you’ll get plenty of visibility. Each camera sports an 18-light infrared LED ring with a range of 100 feet. You’ll get plenty of visibility, with relatively good quality. The image is in black and white, not green, and it’s crisp and sharp.

Storage

The control unit provides continuous, 24/7 recording. It comes pre-installed with a 2TB internal HDD, which is sufficient for 20 days of storage. If you want additional storage, you can attach an external hard drive with a capacity of up to 4TB. This provides a maximum storage capacity of 60 days. Keep in mind that this is a total number. So if you’re recording on all four cameras, you’re looking at a maximum of 15 days on each camera.

Subscription

There is no opportunity for professional home monitoring with Reolink, so you’ll have to be comfortable monitoring your own home and calling authorities if needed. There is no contract or subscription plan you are required to pay for when purchasing a Reolink camera.

If you’re looking to save your videos for longer than 7 days, the cloud service is an option you can pay for monthly. Prices are as follows:

  • Basic plan: $0/month; 7 days of video, 1 camera; 1 GB cloud storage
    Standard plan: $3.49/month, 30 day cloud storage, 5 cameras, 10 GB cloud storage
  • Premier plan: $6.99/month, 30 day cloud video history, 10 cameras, 40 GB cloud storage
  • Business plan: $10.49/month, 60 day cloud video history, 30 cameras, 100 GB cloud storage

How to do Reolink 4K PoE security camera system setup?

Step 1: Connect the NVR to a Monitor or TV

Use the HDMI cable (supplied) to connect your NVR to the TV’s HDMI port. .(If there is no display, please connect it to a VGA monitor and change its resolution to 19201080). If you need audio output on your TV monitor, the resolution MUST be set to 19201080 or 1280*720. Or VGA: Use the VGA cable (supplied) to connect your NVR to the Monitor’s VGA port .

Step 2: Connect the IP Cameras

Connect the camera’s RJ45 network socket to any POE Camera port on the NVR using the Ethernet
cables provided. You may also purchase longer LAN cables if required. The system supports up to 330ft CAT 6 cables.

Camera Reset button: It enables you to reset the camera’s admin password back to factory default settings.

Step 3: Connect to your network

Connect an Ethernet cable from the LAN port on the NVR to LAN port on your router.

Step 4: Connect the Mouse

Connect the mouse to the USB port.

The USB Mouse:
•Left click: Selects an item or confirms a choice.
•Right click:
•Opens the menu bar from the live viewing screen.
•Returns one “step” from a submenu.
•Opens a context menu in some settings screens.
•The Scroll Wheel: Can be used to adjust the values of sliders and scales when highlighted by the mouse.

Step 5: Connect the Power Adapter

Please use the supplied power adapter. For POE NVR device, it is 48 voltage. Camera voltage is 12V only. Please don’t use the NVR 48V power adapter directly to Camera. Otherwise, it will be damaged.

Now configuration wizard will appear to guide you to the rest of the process.

Alternate of Reolink 4K PoE security camera system

Lorex 4K PoE Cameras with 8 CH NVR – Best 4K PoE Camera System

Pros
  • 4K resolution with 93 degree viewing angle
  • Infrared LED lights for night vision and spotlights for low-light conditions
  • H.265 video compression to maximize video storage
  • Expandable NVR storage up to six TB
Cons
  • No cloud storage options
  • Expensive for a four-camera system
  • Uses an older Lorex mobile app (Lorex Cirrus)
  • Limit of eight cameras for one NVR

DIY Installation – mounting & setup

We also loved the fact that both the dome and bullet cameras (the system had two of each) were wall and ceiling mountable and that each camera came with a mounting kit. The Lorex 4K PoE camera system is a professional-grade system capable of protecting large homes and business establishments. However, when we tested it, the setup process was just as simple as the other residential PoE systems we installed. And thanks to the 100 feet Ethernet cable included with each of the four cameras, we were able to route the cables easily through the ceiling of our office.

Intelligent Video Compression

Most other four-camera 4K systems we tested gobbled up two TB in only about four or five days. On top of that, Lorex used HEVC encoding, which stands for High-Efficiency Video Compression. HEVC encoding further helped compress the size of the videos but without affecting the 4K video quality. 4K videos can take up a lot of storage space, but thanks to the intelligent video compression of the Lorex 4K PoE cameras, we were able to maximize the two TB storage of our NVR. The cameras used H.265 compression instead of the usual H.264. According to Lorex, it could cut the size of video files by up to 50 percent. We didn’t have a way to check for sure but considering that it took all four cameras over a week to fill the two TB NVR, that seems to be the case.

Exceptional Video Quality

One of the things that stood out was the video quality of the Lorex 4K PoE camera system. It wasn’t the only 4K PoE camera we tested, but it had just the right mix of technologies to make it stand out. It automatically switched between daytime videos, infrared night vision, and color night vision depending on the light condition. It was capable of zooming in without losing quality. And of course, the 4K resolution made its videos almost stunning. If there’s one thing that could use improvements, though, it’s the viewing angle. With a 93 degrees field of view, the Lorex cameras fell below our expectations. However, it was still pretty good considering that the camera we installed in our break room was still able to monitor the entire area. Unfortunately for us, that meant no more extended breaks.

Editor’s recommendations

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