Lorex vs Zmodo Cameras

If you're looking to upgrade your home security, purchasing a security camera system is the best way to do that. Zmodo and Lorex are two great providers with excellent home security cameras. But many are available, and it's challenging to know which is best for you.

Lorex is a Canada-based provider with 30+ years in the industry, offering cameras with an array of features, including person detection and 4K resolution.

Zmodo is a China-based affordable provider of good-quality cameras and home security equipment. Let's take a look at what they can offer.

Lorex vs Zmodo: What do they have in common?

• Weatherproof cameras: Each provider offers a selection of weatherproof outdoor security cameras.
• Flexibility: You won't be forced to take out a long-term contract.
• Night vision: Each provider has several options, including color night vision.
• Voice control: Via compatibility with Amazon Alexa, voice control is a valuable feature you can use with most cameras.
• Mobile app: You can monitor your security system via a mobile app available on Android and iOS.
• Warranty: Zmodo and Lorex offer a 12-month warranty.
• Motion detection: Lorex and Zmodo offer motion-sensitive alerts and customizable motion zones.

Lorex vs Zmodo: What are the differences?

• Resolution: Lorex offers 4k camera resolution, and Zmodo offers 720p and 1080p HD video cameras. Lorex offers some of the best security cameras available.
• Two-way talk: Zmodo doesn't offer two-way audio, but Lorex does.
• Pre-recorded greeting: While Zmodo doesn't offer two-way audio, it does offer a pre-recorded greeting message with some video doorbells, which Lorex doesn't offer.
• Larger systems: Lorex offers NVR and DVR systems capable of supporting up to 32 cameras, making them ideal for businesses and larger homes.
• Pricing: It's rare to find providers like Zmodo - for under $30.
• DIY installation: While Lorex and Zmodo each offer DIY installation, Lorex offers professional installation via endorsed third-party InstallerNet.

Zmodo: What you need to know

Zmodo is a Chinese security company offering smart home products and excellent features such as high-quality video doorbells, cameras, and Wi-Fi extenders. Let's look at what Zmodo has to offer.

Installation

Regardless of the camera you buy, installing it's up to you. The wireless security cameras are easiest to install, but wired installs can be complex - they'll come with an NVR unit.

Professional installation isn't available, and you'll need to hire your tradesperson if needed.

Equipment

Zmodo offers a range of equipment, including:

• Doorbell cameras
• Wireless security cameras
• Indoor cameras
• Outdoor NVR cameras
• Smart thermostat

Thanks to these offerings, you can create a complete smart home system. Zmodo has recently expanded its range to include HD 1080p cameras, but it offers a range of 720p cameras. They're not the best, but they're reasonable for the price.

Home automation

Zmodo shines in this category, offering a dedicated line of smart thermostats, Wi-Fi extenders, and other home automation. Security features can be monitored via Zmodo's app, and most Zmodo cameras offer compatibility with If This Then That (IFTTT) equipment, including Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.

Pricing

• Equipment costs: Zmodo is one of the cheapest providers; cameras start at just $29.
• Monthly fees: You can choose to subscribe, but it's optional. For additional video storage, monthly payments start at $4.99 per month (or $49.90 per year). It's $9.99 per month or $99.90 per year to keep videos for 30 days. Free cloud storage only applies to the first 12 hours.

Nerd pros

• DIY installation: Since installation is DIY only, you won't need to pay any installation costs. There are no activation fees either.
• A la carte options: Zmodo equipment doesn't have to be bought as a kit or at once; you can buy them on an a la carte basis and gradually expand your smart home.
• Pricing: You won't find many providers offering cameras below $30.
• Pre-recorded messages: You can pre-record a message that will play for anyone when you're not home.

Nerd cons

• Camera quality: Camera quality is good but doesn't compare to Lorex.
• Mobile app: Some of the reviews on the mobile app aren't as good.
• Professional monitoring: Zmodo doesn't offer professional monitoring; you'll need to be comfortable with self-monitoring.
• Two-way audio: There's no two-way talk facility with Zmodo cameras.
• Wi-Fi network: You need robust Wi-Fi for wireless setup; many customers complain that an average Wi-Fi connection complicates their setup.

Lorex - What you need to know

Lorex has decades of experience offering various home security cameras, including everything from individual Wi-Fi cameras to 32-camera NVR systems. Lorex can offer services to homes and businesses, and professional installation may be available depending on your location.

The high-quality app can provide motion-activated notifications and is available on Android and iPhone.

Installation

Everything sold by Lorex is designed for easy DIY installation, promising to keep installation straightforward regardless of the model you purchase.

The complexity of your installation experience will vary depending on what you buy. For example, you can purchase wireless, hardwired, and Power Over Ethernet (POE) options. Each comes with a clear instruction booklet; the only required tools are basics (screwdrivers, etc.). But if you're not confident at DIY, you can purchase professional installation via a licensed third-party, InstallerNet.

Equipment

Lorex offers an array of equipment for you to choose from, including:

• 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

Lorex also offers rechargeable batteries, power cords, and related accessories. Lorex doesn't provide any dedicated smart home options.

Home automation

Lorex is great for the basics, compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, and other If This Then That (IFTTT) technology. But if you're looking for a more comprehensive smart home system, it's a good idea to look elsewhere.

Costs

Prices vary considerably based on what you choose. Prices begin at $99 for an individual camera, and NVR recorders start at around $1000, but most homeowners can expect to pay under $500 for a basic home security system.

Nerd pros

• Camera quality: Lorex offers some of the best HD camera systems in the business, with 4K video resolution.
• Multiple options: Lorex offers various options to secure everything, including companies and modest family homes. There's something for everyone, from 32-camera CCTV systems to video doorbells.
• Customized motion detection: You can prevent false alarms by customizing activity zones and sensitivity.
• 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: Despite offering almost everything, you can't access professional monitoring.

Lorex or Zmodo?

If you're looking for an HD security camera with the best image quality or an extensive surveillance system for your home or business, you should consider Lorex the best option. But if you want an array of smart home devices and the lowest price, Zmodo should be considered. Zmodo offers security cameras for less than $30, and they're reliable and high-quality, with great features that some more expensive cameras lack.