Home security cameras help

I got a Lorex system from Costco that works well.

If you have a current home security provider and if they offer cameras. I got a very good deal with SimpliSafe and just got a 3rd camera for $20 after shipping since I joined a special AI camera monitor program with them. Wifi controlled and has storage since I pay for their $30/month monitoring system. Not sure if there's cloud storage without the paid monitoring but it is well worth it to pay for.

Ring also offers a fairly inexpensive cloud storage option if you have their doorbell.

I shared this in an older thread, but here’s my experience. I initially tried doorbell cameras and the camera packages from Sam's/Costco, but I eventually switched to individual PoE cameras running on Blue Iris software with an old PC. The best part of this setup is the flexibility—you're not tied to one brand. You can mix and match high-end cameras with $50 models or even PTZ cameras.

The key question to ask yourself is: What are you trying to achieve with the cameras? Is it general surveillance, monitoring the front door, or reading license plates? No single camera will excel at everything, though some do a decent job across the board. However, if your main goal is to catch a porch pirate, this setup might not be the most practical option.

Im just looking for some cameras that I can log into a view, get alerts for motion, save videos.

I'd rather keep it wifi and not wired. Like motion tracking, good night vision

I have arlo. Its very useful. No wires, everything is in the cloud. The only issue is recharging the batteries.

Go POE and I suggest ReoLink. Very good quality with a range of cameras which can get confusing on angle/depth of field. They have models with tracking and their DVRs are expandable. Even though they are stand alone, you can get notifications and view everything from your phone. I researched a lot and Im glad I went with ReoLink. I self installed and Im surprised I could adjust settings for things like animals/pets.

If I could do over again the ONLY thing I would do differently is not worry about onboard IR and plan and install remote IR lights. On board IR lights attract all kinds of bugs and there is just no way to filter out settings for a month fluttering around the sensor. That actually may be one of my winter projects is to go remote IR.

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I researched a lot and Im glad I went with ReoLink.

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Same here. I have always had the Swann bnc cameras. I recently upgraded to the Reolink poe cameras and am so happy with them.

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Reo-link. Closed system.

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Does that record even if the internet is down? I’m looking for a small system that isn’t completely dependent on internet wifi.

Thanks. I went to their website but was unable to determine from what they have posted if that was the case or not. Based on your comments, I'm going to look into this system further. I don't want a monthly subscription and some cloud-based server holding my video hostage. Thanks again.