Lorex vs EZVIZ Cameras

Home security systems are a great deterrence. Security cameras are a great add-on if you’re trying to boost your home security. There are plenty of cameras available from different providers, and it can be challenging to know which is best. Lorex and EZVIZ are two great providers.

Lorex is a Canada-based provider of advanced surveillance systems, including some of the best home security cameras available. Lorex launched over 30 years ago and has a solid reputation.

EZVIZ launched in 2013 with a variety of equipment, primarily focused on Wi-Fi cameras supported by their cloud storage platform, EZVIZ cloud.

Lorex and EZVIZ have unique benefits; let’s take a look to see what they can offer you.

Lorex vs EZVIZ: What do they have in common?

  • Night vision: Lorex and EZVIZ have an array of night vision options, including color night vision.
  • Two-way talk: EZVIZ and Lorex devices are equipped with two-way audio, one of the simplest ways to keep your home secure.
  • DIY installation: If you want to install your home security system, you’re in good hands with EZVIZ and Lorex; each provider offers DIY installation.
  • Flexibility: You won’t be forced into a long-term contract.
  • Outdoor cameras: You can opt for indoor or outdoor cameras.
  • Mobile app: You’ll be able to manage your home security system with a live feed and motion-activated push notifications.

Lorex vs EZVIZ: What are their differences?

  • Monthly costs: EZVIZ charges monthly for extra storage. Lorex doesn’t provide anything apart from equipment.
  • Reputation: Lorex has more experience and better online reviews. EZVIZ scored poorly with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and has been in the business for just nine years.
  • Camera quality: Lorex cameras are all 1080p HD minimum, and some are 4k resolution. Many EZVIZ cameras are 720p.
  • Costs: Lorex cameras start at $99, but EZVIZ cameras start at $20.
  • Smart home accessories: EZVIZ offers more dedicated smart home features, plus extras like air purifiers and pet cams. Lorex only offers third-party automation.

EZVIZ: What you need to know

EZVIZ launched as an affordable provider that doesn’t require long-term contracts. EZVIZ cameras are low-cost but offer decent protection and crisp video quality. Let’s take a look at what EZVIZ offers you.

Installation

Everything you need to install your new camera will come with it. Most include base mounting equipment to fix a surface or wall; wireless and wired options are provided, and the customer service line can provide support and troubleshooting if you have any issues.

Equipment

EZVIZ offers you a selection of options for your security camera system; there are several surveillance cameras on offer, with around ten indoor cameras (hardwired and wireless) and a dozen outdoor security cameras, including video doorbells. The cheapest security camera offered by EZVIZ is the CIC 730p camera, which is around $20. It provides good enough picture quality and MicroSD card compatibility.

Equipment offered by EZVIZ includes:

  • Indoor and outdoor cameras
  • Air purifiers
  • Smart lights
  • Pet cameras

Home automation

EZVIZ doesn’t offer much third-party automation; Amazon Alexa compatibility is the only real integration. But EZVIZ does provide a complete line of smart home accessories, including smart lights, locks, purifiers, and thermostats.

Pricing

  • Equipment costs: EZVIZ cameras are cheap, and IP cameras start from just $20.
  • Monthly fees: If you use local storage, you won’t need to pay monthly, but if you need cloud storage, you’ll pay at least $5.99 per month.

Nerd pros

  • Costs: EZVIZ is one of the cheapest providers.
  • Flexibility: There are no long-term contracts required for EZVIZ.
  • Motion sensors: Advanced motion sensors come with customizable motion zones and accurate person detection technology.
  • Variety: You’ll have many cameras to choose from, including wire-free smart doorbells and hardwired variations.

Nerd cons

  • Reputation: EZVIZ has a poor rating with the BBB and some negative online feedback.
  • Video storage limits: While they offer cloud storage, it will cost you (plans start at $5.99 a month), and there’s no free cloud storage option (apart from a free trial). You can use an SD card, but they don’t always provide enough storage.
  • No professional monitoring: You can’t access professional monitoring with EZVIZ.

Lorex - What you need to know

Lorex has been specializing in home security cameras and surveillance systems for around 30 years; they offer advanced camera features and weatherproof hardware.

Lorex offers everything from individual Wi-Fi cameras to 32-camera NVR systems; there's something for everyone. Depending on your location, professional installation may be available.

Installation

Everything offered by Lorex is designed for easy DIY installation, Lorex promises a straightforward installation, but the complexity varies depending on the equipment you choose. You can choose POE (Power over Ethernet), wire-free, and hardwired installs, but you can access the professional installation via InstallerNet.

Equipment

Lorex sells rechargeable batteries, power cords, and related accessories.

Lorex’s available equipment includes:

  • Outdoor security cameras (including floodlight and spotlight cameras and smart security cameras with built-in motion detectors)
  • Wire-free security system kits
  • NVR 4k systems with 8+ viewing channels
  • Indoor security cameras
  • Video doorbells

Home automation

Lorex offers the basics, with no smart home products of its own, but it does offer compatibility with Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, and other Z-wave products. You should consider other providers if you want a complete smart home ecosystem.

Pricing

Prices vary considerably due to the variety offered, but prices start at $99 for an individual camera. Your NVR/DVR recorders with up to 32 cameras start at around $1000, but for most homeowners, $500 will be sufficient to provide the basics. There are no monthly costs associated with Lorex systems.

Nerd pros

  • Prevent false alarms: You can prevent false alarms by customizing activity zones and motion detection sensitivity.
  • Multiple options: Lorex offers an array of options so you can secure modest family homes, businesses, or large estates. All needs are met, from 32 camera CCTV systems to video doorbells.
  • 4k resolution: Lorex offers 4k resolution.
  • Warranty: Lorex offers a 12-month warranty.
  • Field of view: Some cameras offer 360 degrees views.

Nerd cons

  • Lack of home integration options: Though some integration features are offered, they could be expanded significantly above and beyond the current selection.
  • Professional monitoring: Professional monitoring isn't offered despite being a comprehensive provider.

Lorex or EZVIZ?

Which provider is best for you will depend on what you’re looking for - if you want a bigger security system, then Lorex is ideal. EZVIZ has more to offer when it comes to smart home automation. If you’re comparing only the security cameras, then Lorex should be your top choice, offering better quality cameras with a 12-month warranty and 1080p HD/4k resolution.

This article has been reviewed and approved by Officer Banta.

Officer James Banta

Officer Banta is the official SecurityNerd home security and safety expert. A member of the Biloxi Police Department for over 24 years, Officer Banta reviews all articles before lending his stamp of approval. Click here for more information on Officer Banta and the rest of our team.

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