I’m looking for POE cameras for 24/7 monitoring, an NVR, remote viewing, and notifications.
My local Alarm.com provider offers cameras for around $300 each, plus $400-500 for the NVR, with a monthly fee of $50 for camera monitoring alone (installation not included).
On the other hand, Reolink has much cheaper hardware options and no monthly fees. I’d just pay for hardwired installation separately.
I’d appreciate any advice or personal experiences with these options. Thanks!
If you only need cameras, Alarm.com’s monthly fees aren’t worth it. Reolink is a solid choice and more appropriate for your needs.
@TracyJones
Reolink should work fine for just cameras. However, if you ever upgrade the alarm system, Alarm.com with Qolsys, DSC, or 2Gig is way better than Ring. They have a great interface. But for cameras alone, the monthly fee isn’t worth it.
@Reynaldo
This is helpful. Any recommendations on which Reolink hardware to get? Do I need 4K or 12/16MP cameras?
TracyJones said:
@Reynaldo
This is helpful. Any recommendations on which Reolink hardware to get? Do I need 4K or 12/16MP cameras?
As a dealer, I usually recommend 5MP or 8MP. Higher resolutions can be overkill for a home setup. Other factors like frame rate, lens size, and night vision are just as important.
@Reynaldo
Thanks! Another local company suggested Dahua instead, saying Reolink is more ‘consumer grade.’ They quoted $3k for four cameras, an NVR, a viewing monitor, and installation.
TracyJones said:
@Reynaldo
Thanks! Another local company suggested Dahua instead, saying Reolink is more ‘consumer grade.’ They quoted $3k for four cameras, an NVR, a viewing monitor, and installation.
Dahua is definitely higher-end, but Reolink isn’t bad, especially for the price.
Reolink for sure. Alarm.com cameras stop working if you don’t pay.
Double-check with your local alarm company on the camera brand. Some companies just mark up Reolink cameras but won’t tell you.
Go with Reolink. If you have the NVR on-site, there’s no need for another company.
Get a good Reolink kit, pay for wiring, and you’ll be set without monthly fees.
We had an Alarm.com doorbell cam trial when we moved in. Replaced it with a Reolink doorbell, which is much better in terms of picture quality and responsiveness.
A subscription fee of $600/year adds up quickly, and the cancellation process with these companies can be a hassle. Plus, $300 per camera is steep.
@Hugo
I agree. I’ve decided to cancel the consultation because of the high prices and monthly fees.
Consider Reolink cameras and NVR for surveillance, konnected.io for hardwired sensors, and Home Assistant to connect everything.