Looking at Reolink or Eufy, help me decide

Help Requests and Troubleshooting Forum
1

Currently, I have a Ring doorbell and floodlight camera paired with an Orbi mesh Wi-Fi system (RBK75X). The coverage is great across the house and even extends to a pole barn with an Ethernet-connected satellite. My local storage setup will be out of sight and connected to my network switch.

I’m planning to expand my home security system with:

  • 1 doorbell camera (battery-operated)
  • 4 floodlight cameras (hardwired)
  • 2-4 indoor cameras (plugged into electrical outlets)
  • Later: 4 more floodlight cameras for the pole barn (PoE-enabled)

Requirements:

  1. Hardwired indoor and outdoor cameras with Wi-Fi capability (PoE for the pole barn).
  2. Local storage or subscription-free cloud storage for 1-2 weeks of recordings.
  3. An app for live viewing, motion alerts, and two-way audio (Android compatible).
  4. 24/7 continuous recording.
  5. Unlimited viewing duration for monitoring (e.g., monitoring a toddler overnight).

Considering Reolink and Eufy:

Reolink seems to offer more camera options, while Eufy is known for ease of use and solid performance. I’d appreciate input on:

  • Camera reliability and app functionality.
  • Storage options: What size should I consider (5TB, 10TB, etc.)?
  • User-friendly alternatives to Reolink and Eufy.

Looking for plug-and-play systems similar to Ring but with better storage and no subscription fees. Any recommendations?

2

Eufy has been great for me. I use Homebase 3 with a doorbell camera. It’s reliable, has no monthly fees, and offers solid local storage. Highly recommend!

3

I have Eufy, and it’s been okay, but not amazing. The doorbell often misses events, and the app is hit-or-miss. The outdoor cameras are decent but can feel flimsy due to their mounting systems. Reolink might be a better option for consistent quality.

4

@Frederick
Are all your cameras battery-powered? How do they handle motion detection?

5

PeacefulHomestead said:
@Frederick
Are all your cameras battery-powered? How do they handle motion detection?

None of mine are battery-powered, but the motion detection isn’t great. It often misses things like package deliveries.

6

I use both Eufy and Reolink systems. Both are solid choices, but here’s a breakdown:

  • Eufy: Great for basic monitoring. I use their floodlight cameras and security setup. The app works well, but it only shows one live feed at a time. Eufy cameras record events rather than 24/7, which might not suit your needs.

  • Reolink: I have their doorbell camera, and it’s been reliable. Reolink offers better customization options and supports continuous recording. I’d recommend Reolink if you need extensive camera coverage.

For storage, get the largest size supported by your NVR or home hub. A 10TB drive should cover a few weeks of 24/7 recording for multiple cameras.

7

@Wayne
Thanks for the detailed comparison! How’s the video clarity on both systems?

8

PeacefulHomestead said:
@Wayne
Thanks for the detailed comparison! How’s the video clarity on both systems?

Both have great clarity, but Reolink edges out slightly for outdoor cameras. If clarity is critical, Reolink would be my pick.

9

Reolink has excellent camera options with no subscription fees. Their PoE systems are user-friendly, and the app is intuitive. I recommend starting with a 10TB drive if you’re recording 24/7.