Amcrest vs. Lorex Cameras

If you're looking for a home security system and have come across these two big names, it's no surprise. Both Amcrest and Lorex are popular security camera providers with a wealth of features, including industry-leading 4K video quality. We've compiled a comparison for you and examined the specs in depth so you can decide which system can best meet your needs.

Amcrest vs. Lorex - What do they have in common?

• Installation: Neither requires professional installation as standard, allowing keen DIY'ers to install their system with the help of the comprehensive instructions provided.
• Video Quality: products offered by both offer sharp 4K quality
• Weatherproof: Both offer study outdoor cameras that can stand up to a challenge.
• Night Vision: Both companies can typically offer you night vision, and a variety of low light products mean you can make use of brilliant crystal clear footage at all hours. Color night vision is also available.
• Motion detection: Amcrest models allow you to get push notifications for motion alerts; it can also record/note that motion event and store it in the app, SD card, or cloud storage.
• Deterrents: Some models from Lorex and Amcrest come with a deterrent floodlight or siren to dissuade would-be thieves and intruders.

Lorex and Amcrest - What are the differences?

• Wireless connection: Lorex only offers a wireless connection, while some Amcrest models require hardwiring.
• Third-party integrations: Lorex offers more third-party integrations than Amcrest, which we'll cover in more detail shortly.
• Cloud Storage: Amcrest offers more storage options encompassing cloud-based storage that can be used with both NVR and DVR but Lorex only offers local storage on a hard drive.

What you need to know about Lorex

Installation

All Lorex Cameras are designed for DIY installation, with the company promising a simple setup no matter what product you've chosen. Though there are multiple product types with wired, wireless, and Ethernet-powered Lorex camera options, installation time and difficulty can vary.

If you're looking for the simplest setup, the wireless options doubtlessly offer this and can be up and running in minutes.

Any camera you purchase will come with a detailed instruction manual and requires tools any keen DIY'ers will have at home already, such as screwdrivers and drills. No matter how your Lorex camera is powered, everything you need will be provided for you.

Home Automation

Lorex does not have an extensive selection when it comes to smart home automation options. It doesn't offer any automation/smart features of its own. Though, it is compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT, and Apple TV.

Pricing

Lorex security cameras vary in price because of the sheer number of available bundles and models to choose from. Customers can also opt to purchase single cameras or up to 32 cameras in one bundle.

Prices vary from $99 for a single camera to large camera bundles that exceed $9000.

Nerd Pros

• Customizable motion detection: Users can set up customized activity zones to ensure they're not receiving unnecessary alerts from random passersby or vehicles. This feature will let you adjust your motion sensors sensitivity to your requirements.
• Product selection: Whether you're looking to secure a business or family home, there'll be a Lorex camera that meets your needs, encompassing both wired and wire-free options and multiple recording options; there are many choices that will allow you to customize your home security setup.
• No Added Costs: It's very common for security companies to have a subscription plan to unlock premium features such as extra video storage. There are no additional costs with Lorex security cameras. You'll never need to pay extra to fully utilize what your selected product has to offer.
• Video Doorbell: Lorex offers a high-quality doorbell camera that is easy to install.

Nerd Cons

• Lack of home integration systems: Lorex security cameras offer only basic home automation options, with compatibility with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple TV. Other than that, there are no options to integrate further.
• Cost: The cost of a Lorex camera isn't outrageous, but it is notably higher than some competitors due to the fact that there are no subscription plans or monthly costs, making it a larger upfront investment.
• Confusing options: The array of packages to choose from could be confusing, making a choice overwhelming. The customer support team is helpful, but product choices could be better explained on the website to reduce confusion.

What you need to know about Amcrest

Installation

Since Amcrest offers a huge variety of home security cameras, the installation process can vary. An Amcrest wifi camera will be as simple as it gets, requiring very minimal effort. But the PoE Amcrest camera would require drilling and a more complex setup and may require a professional install to ensure everything works correctly. The DVR and NVR options can also become more complex. For the most user-friendly install process, you'll want to choose a wifi camera.

Home automation

Amcrest could use some development in this area. The only integration currently offered is Alexa capability for IP cameras. Other than that, customers may choose products from Amcrest's "smart home" line, which includes a video doorbell and other cameras with smart home features like automatic motion recording.

A customer service representative advised us that the only integration currently available is Amazon Alexa.

Pricing

Amcrest offers many different types of UltraHD security cameras, from motorized outdoor cameras to bullet camera options and even baby monitors and drones. The range of products means that pricing varies considerably from around $50 upwards.

Nerd Pros

• Customization: You can customize your Amcrest camera to your requirements, with the ability to edit frame rate, resolution, sensitivity, and motion detection zones all from within the app. Whether you're working with a simple indoor camera in your living room or a full security camera system with DVR or NVR, Amcrest will let you make it your own.
• No subscriptions: Unless you decide to subscribe to an upgraded cloud storage plan, there are no monthly fees or subscription costs to consider.

Nerd Cons

• Limited integration: Amcrest doesn't really offer any meaningful integrations, offering compatibility with only Alexa. The company does have a line of Smart Home cameras, but there are no extras like thermostats or plugs.
• More complex install: If you're used to surveillance cameras that are plug and go, Amcrest products might be a difficult adjustment. The regular wifi products are simple to set up, but some options will require additional hardwiring.
• No professional monitoring: Although Amcrest offers motion detection alerts, you need to be comfortable monitoring your system yourself. As standard, Amcrest doesn't offer any third-party monitoring though a Customer service representative did tell our SecurityNerd that if you find a security company that will integrate with Amcrest cameras, they can be used alongside the other company's professional monitoring.

Lorex or Amcrest?

Of all camera brands, if brilliant image quality is paramount to you, then both Lorex and Amcrest are a good choice. However, if you want Cloud-based storage options, then Amcrest is the better choice.

Amcrest is great for you if you don't mind a slightly more challenging install process - or hiring someone else to handle it for you. Lorex is better for the keen DIY'ers who'd rather do everything themselves. Both products are ideal for someone who doesn't want to be locked into expensive contracts.