Reolink Rlc-810a Vs Rlc-520 Review

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In the ever-evolving landscape of security cameras, Reolink has established itself as a formidable player, particularly with its releases like the RLC-810A and RLC-520. Both models promise exceptional surveillance capabilities, but they cater to slightly different needs and scenarios. In this Reolink RLC-810A vs RLC-520 review, we will delve deep into the technical specifications, ease of setup, performance metrics, smart features, and the pros and cons of each unit to help you determine which camera best suits your security requirements.

Technical Features

The Reolink RLC-810A is a highly advanced PoE (Power over Ethernet) camera that operates on an 8MP Ultra HD resolution, delivering crystal-clear images at a resolution of 3840x2160. One of its standout features is the intelligent person/vehicle detection technology that drastically reduces false alarms by distinguishing between different types of motion. Its 8X optical zoom feature allows users to get up close without losing image quality, making it perfect for detailed surveillance tasks. Furthermore, it features a wide 87.5° field of view, perfect for keeping an eye on larger areas with minimal blind spots.

On the other hand, the Reolink RLC-520 is a more economical but still robust security camera. Sporting a 5MP resolution (2560x1920), the RLC-520 provides high-definition video that is suitable for most residential and small business needs. It also utilizes PoE technology but lacks the advanced detection features of the RLC-810A. Its field of view is slightly narrower at 80°, which may be sufficient for smaller spaces but could lead to more blind spots if used for larger areas.

Both cameras offer night vision capabilities; however, the RLC-810A excels in this area with its starlight night vision, allowing it to capture clear color images even in low light, while the RLC-520 utilizes standard infrared night vision.

Setup & Installation

Setting up both cameras is relatively straightforward, but the methodologies differ slightly due to their features.

For the Reolink RLC-810A, users can expect a slightly more complex installation due to its higher specifications. It requires a Cat5 or Cat6 Ethernet cable for connecting to your network and PoE switch. Be prepared to mount it at a height that optimizes its field of view while being careful with navigating the wiring. The camera is quite robust, designed for outdoor use, and comes with a protective casing. The installation of the corresponding software, Reolink Client, also requires attention to detail, particularly for custom configurations like scheduled recordings and alerts.

The RLC-520, in contrast, could arguably be the more user-friendly option. With similar PoE requirements, the installation still requires careful placement, but its setup process is simplified thanks to a less complicated feature set. Users can easily connect it to the Reolink app on their smartphones or through the desktop software and start monitoring their feeds almost instantly.

For both cameras, it is highly recommended that you run network cables through walls or ceilings for a cleaner look, though both have the option of wireless setups with appropriate adapters. If you are not comfortable with DIY installations, hiring a professional can save you time and ensure optimal placement.

Smart Features & Integration

In the modern age of smart home convenience, both Reolink cameras make strides in terms of integration.

The RLC-810A leverages advanced AI features to minimize false alerts by distinguishing between people, vehicles, and animals, a feature that is incredibly useful if you reside in an area with a lot of wildlife or passing traffic. The setup for motion detection configurations is intuitive through the Reolink app, which is available on both Android and iOS, allowing you to set custom alerts, recordings, and schedules. The app is user-friendly and provides a seamless way to view your live feed and access recorded footage.

Moreover, the RLC-810A supports smart home integration, including compatibility with both Alexa and Google Assistant. Therefore, you can easily pull up your camera feed on your smart display for quick monitoring.

Conversely, the RLC-520, while not as feature-rich, still provides essential smart features. It also integrates with the Reolink app and offers alerts and customizable motion detection zones, critical for personalizing your surveillance experience. However, it lacks the same breadth of AI capabilities that the RLC-810A boasts. Although it doesn’t support smart home interfaces, it still offers solid compatibility with other Reolink devices, making it a worthwhile investment if you plan to gradually build a security system.

Pros and Cons

As we move forward in evaluating these two cameras, it’s important to weigh their pros and cons to ascertain which model aligns better with your needs.

Reolink RLC-810A:
Pros:

  • Exceptional 8MP Ultra HD resolution for crystal-clear images
  • Advanced person/vehicle detection minimizes false alerts
  • 8X optical zoom for close-up monitoring
  • Impressive night vision capabilities with color in low-light conditions
  • Robust build quality suitable for outdoor use

Cons:

  • Higher price point compared to other models
  • More complex installation and setup

Reolink RLC-520:
Pros:

  • Affordable price point with solid 5MP resolution
  • Straightforward user setup process
  • Offers essential features such as PoE connectivity and high-definition video
  • Good performance for smaller spaces

Cons:

  • Lacks advanced AI features for motion detection
  • Limited optical zoom capabilities
  • Night vision capabilities are inferior to the RLC-810A

Final expert recommendation

When considering your investment in security cameras, selecting the right model hinges on understanding your own requirements. For individuals or business owners who seek a higher level of granularity in surveillance, especially in more complex environments, the Reolink RLC-810A shines with its advanced features, superior night vision, and scalable capabilities. Its consideration for false alarms makes it a robust option for anyone concerned about nuisance notifications.

Conversely, if you are budget-conscious but still wish to maintain a visually clear surveillance process and don’t mind the absence of advanced AI features, the RLC-520 is an exceptional choice. Its quick setup, combined with decent performance, make it a practical solution for a broad user base.

In conclusion, if your situation necessitates comprehensive security coverage and you can justify the investment, opt for the RLC-810A. However, for basic needs without excessive complexities, the RLC-520 represents an attractive option that won’t stretch your budget while still delivering dependable performance.