I’m moving into a tiny home soon, and the builders need me to pick the exterior lighting. I looked online, but it’s overwhelming, so I’m hoping for some recommendations. I need two lights (front and back) with a budget of $500 max. These will be hardwired into the electrical system by the builders. Here’s what I’m looking for:
Motion-activated
Switch control (wiring is already in place)
Adjustable illumination (It would be great if the porch light could stay at medium strength but floodlight when motion is detected. If this isn’t realistic, I understand.)
Camera with recording
Remote access via phone
Wi-Fi connectivity (no Ethernet ports available)
I’ve been looking at Ring and Reolink, but I’m struggling to figure out what’s best. Any help is appreciated!
I’d recommend Reolink over Ring. Ring has a questionable history with user privacy. Reolink offers better performance and doesn’t require a subscription for basic functionality.
Jay said:
I’d recommend Reolink over Ring. Ring has a questionable history with user privacy. Reolink offers better performance and doesn’t require a subscription for basic functionality.
That’s a dealbreaker for Ring, especially with the subscription. What do you think of Eufy?
@Jason
Reolink is a much better choice than Ring. If Ring were trash, Reolink would be a steak—it’s that much better.
For your setup, you could consider Reolink models like the CX810 for the front and the CX410 for the back if you have good lighting around your home. These models have color night vision, but they need strong lighting to work well. If that’s not possible, you might want to use IR cameras like the 810a or 820a and add external IR floodlights. Reolink cameras also have integrated floodlights that can switch to high intensity when motion is detected.
If you go the PoE route in the future, remember you’d only need power for your router and NVR. The cameras get power through Ethernet cables, but since you don’t have PoE now, Reolink Wi-Fi models could be a good fit for your situation.
@Jason
I haven’t used Eufy, so I can’t speak to its quality. My experience is with Reolink and Unifi for residential use. If you’re considering Wi-Fi, just make sure the camera range fits your property and Starlink setup.
@Jason
Eufy only sells Wi-Fi or wireless options. Since you won’t be using PoE, it could work, but Reolink still outperforms it in terms of features and reliability.
Rodrick said: @Jason
Eufy only sells Wi-Fi or wireless options. Since you won’t be using PoE, it could work, but Reolink still outperforms it in terms of features and reliability.
I won’t have PoE since it didn’t occur to me to request it during the build. I’ll be using Starlink for Wi-Fi since it’s my only option out here. I already use it at a relative’s place and love the service, so I’m sticking with it.