I live way out in the woods with no Wi-Fi, but that’s fine because I want a wired security system anyway. From what I’ve read, it seems like Reolink is a popular choice.
I’m not too concerned with phone alerts or cloud access, just need the system to record and be able to monitor it while I’m at home.
The house is small, so I’ll only need a few cameras, but I want to install some up to 50 yards away. I’ve got a trencher, so laying the cables isn’t an issue.
My main questions are: should I piece together a kit with a specific NVR and buy cameras separately, or is it better to buy a pre-made kit? And can I mount a regular outdoor camera on a tree, or should I look for something more specific?
We install cameras and use Reolink for most clients. They have great day and night image quality and a wide range of cameras. We usually get the kit, like a 16-channel NVR with 8 bullet or turret cameras. Reolink POE cameras have been very reliable, and you won’t need internet to set them up. Just plug in a monitor to manage it. Even in remote areas, hotspots from Verizon or T-Mobile can give you access if needed.
I swear by our Reolink setup, bought it as a kit. It’s convenient and usually a good deal. We have the 16-channel NVR with 8 wired, POE bullet cameras (12MP) connected to a Reolink POE switch. Night vision improved a lot when we added an infrared illuminator. You can get specific cameras that aren’t in the kit, but the extras can serve as spares. I upgraded the 2TB hard drive for longer recording. You can mount the outdoor cameras on trees, just make sure to use high-quality cables for burial. You can even camouflage them if needed. For added fun, disable the infrared sensor inside the camera, and use an external illuminator to keep your cameras hidden.
I started with a Reolink NVR kit that came with 4 cameras. The NVR has 8 POE ports, so I can add 4 more later. Just remember Ethernet cables can’t be longer than 330 feet (100m), and snaking them around corners or through walls eats up some of that length.
I’d recommend picking your own NVR and cameras instead of buying a kit. Reolink has lots of camera options, so you can choose what suits you. As for mounting them on trees, that’s possible with the right setup.
Reolink is popular because it’s affordable, but the image quality isn’t great, especially at night. Hikvision and Dahua make better cameras but cost more ($150 to $250 each). You can definitely mount outdoor cameras on trees, but keep in mind lightning risks. A short fiber optic section can protect your equipment.
Without internet, check if the NVR needs a router for DHCP or activation. Also, make sure you can run cable that long without losing signal. Ubiquiti has a POE booster for long runs if needed.
Kaitlyn said:
Without internet, check if the NVR needs a router for DHCP or activation. Also, make sure you can run cable that long without losing signal. Ubiquiti has a POE booster for long runs if needed.
I can get internet through a hotspot if needed, but it’s not always on.
@Auditor
That should work for activation. If you go with POE cameras, make sure the NVR has a built-in DHCP server—most do, but better safe than sorry. Reolink is decent, better than most Amazon brands. If your budget allows, Unifi is worth a look.
@Kaitlyn
I set up a Reolink system without internet, and the image quality is fine for what I need. I just want to know if someone is snooping around, not make a movie.