Hi everyone! Just bought a new house and looking to leave our Ring equipment behind—we’d like to avoid any subscriptions entirely.
I’m hoping for recommendations on a user-friendly security system and camera setup. I can run cables if needed, and I’d prefer all video to be saved locally, with an easy-to-use app for my phone.
It’s been tricky finding clear advice online. I keep seeing Eufy, Ubiquiti, and Hikvision mentioned, but Ubiquiti seems to need a lot of extras, Hikvision doesn’t offer security systems, and Eufy has mixed reviews on reliability.
Timothy said:
There are a lot of cameras that work well with an NVR (network video recorder). You’ll just need a PoE (Power over Ethernet) network switch.
Any specific recommendations? The options feel overwhelming! Hoping to stay under $1000 for everything, with about four cameras total—one being a floodlight cam for the garage.
It’s usually best to keep your security (alarm) system separate from your surveillance (camera) system. That way, issues with one won’t impact the other.
I’ve had a good experience with the Synology Surveillance Station, which has a great phone app and no subscription fees. It’s compatible with almost any PoE camera.
sabrina said: @Bridget
Any advice on picking out PoE cameras? Hikvision’s website has so many options, it’s hard to know where to start.
I’d start here on Synology’s compatibility page. Also, you might want to avoid brands like Hikvision due to human rights concerns and political issues.
Consider Ubiquiti’s UniFi Protect. They have many options, and their app is top-notch, though it’s on the pricier side. The UniFi system could be a good fit if you’re looking for high quality.
If your budget is around $1,000, Ubiquiti is worth looking into. A four-camera setup would fit that range nicely. Do you already have cables run, or will that be part of the budget?
Also, keep in mind it’s a good idea to keep your security and camera systems separate. This way, if one fails, the other will still be running. Any specific features you’re looking for in a security system?
Reolink has several wired PoE options and is compatible with ONVIF standards, meaning it works with other ONVIF-compliant NVRs. Eufy, on the other hand, is primarily WiFi and often requires its own HomeBase.
I’d recommend wired PoE cameras for stability and reliability, especially those with ONVIF or at least RTSP compatibility.
@FortressHome
The footage is stored on the camera, and the app connects directly to it for viewing. Video isn’t stored in the cloud, though theoretically, Reolink could access it.
For better privacy, Apple users could consider HomeKit Secure Video for certain Reolink cameras.