Home security systems are quickly becoming essential. Security cameras are a great way to improve your home security system. If you're upgrading your security cameras, you'll have an array of options to choose from.
Reolink and Wyze are two excellent providers. Wyze was established in 2017 by ex-Amazon employees. Wyze's primary offerings include affordable home security cameras and smart home integrations.
Reolink launched in 2009 with a primary focus on delivering high-quality cameras. They also provide environmentally-friendly models, often including solar panel battery charging.
Wyze vs Reolink: What do they have in common?
- Mobile app: Wyze and Reolink have mobile apps allowing you to monitor your security systems. The app is available on iOS and Android.
- Video quality: Wyze and Reolink cameras come in 1080p HD video quality.
- Notifications: Motion alerts are offered by Wyze and Reolink; the cameras will notify you if it sees anything.
- Customizable motion detection: Your camera system will have customizable motion detection features.
- Storage options: You can choose between local storage and cloud storage options. Several options are compatible with Micro SD cards.
- Installation: You'll be responsible for installing your own security system.
- Video doorbell features: The video doorbells have similar functionality, such as two-way audio. You can rely on two-way talk to make it seem that you're home - even if you're not.
Wyze vs Reolink: What are the differences
- Smart security: Reolink doesn't work with most If This Then That (IFTTT) equipment. Some models work with Google Assistant, but it could be better.
- Color night vision: Reolink offers night vision and, sometimes, color night vision with its outdoor security cameras.
- Solar-powered cameras: Several Reolinks cameras, such as the Reolink Argus 2, can be solar-powered.
- Pricing: Reolink is affordable, but Wyze is hard to beat.
- Weatherproofing: Wyze focuses on indoor cameras, but Reolink's cameras are weatherproof and designed for all weather.
- Rechargeable battery: Reolink's cameras are often battery-powered.
- Professional monitoring: Wyze offers professional monitoring for $5 per month. Reolink doesn't provide any professional monitoring.
Reolink - What you need to know
Reolink is a reliable provider of home security equipment. Reolink was launched in 2009 and has sold its products worldwide. The Reolink app is well-made and functions well without any bugs.
Installation
Installation is simple; you may only require a QR code. Some cameras require mounting, but users report a fast process. Battery-powered cameras are wire-free, so there's no need to worry about mess or complicated installation.
Home automation
Reolink falls behind its competitors. There are no dedicated smart home tools, and third-party compatibility is limited. Most cameras have Google Assistant compatibility, but there aren't others. Most companies have Z-wave compatibility.
Pricing
Reolink's prices vary. Costs start at $70 for a single Wi-Fi camera. Reolink offers cloud subscription plans. The prices are as follows:
- Basic plan: Free. Seven days of video recording for one camera. 1 GB of cloud storage.
- Standard plan: For $3.49 per month, you'll receive 30 days of cloud storage, coverage for five cameras, and 10GB of video storage.
- Premium plan: For $6.99 per month, you'll receive 30 days of cloud storage, coverage for ten cameras, and 40GB of cloud storage.
- Business plan: For $10.49 per month, you'll receive a 60-day cloud video history, coverage for 30 cameras, and 100 GB of video storage
Nerd pros
- Installation: Your installation will likely only have one step, but even more complicated installations have simple mounts.
- Pricing: You're unlikely to spend more than $100 purchasing a camera from this budget-friendly brand.
- Power options: Multiple power options are available, including solar-powered cameras.
Nerd cons
- Lack of smart home options: Compared to Wyze, there are almost no smart home options. Some cameras work with Google Assistant, but that's about it until Amazon Alexa integration is finalized.
- Limited general capabilities: Several crucial features are missed - several cameras at the same price point have geofencing, cellular backup, and person detection.
Wyze: What you need to know
Wyze began in 2017, started by ex-Amazon employees. Their key selling points are affordable cameras, smart home integrations, and easy installation. Several advanced features include adjustable motion zones and sensitivity. Let's break down what Wyze has to offer.
Installation
Wyze has a simple installation - while it's not as simple as Reolink's, you can connect your camera to an outlet, wait a few seconds, then hold the setup button. Once you've initiated setup, the system will walk you through the necessary steps. Professional installation isn't offered, but Wyze's customer support line is responsive and available if you require troubleshooting.
Equipment
Wyze offers a variety of home security cameras, including video doorbells and indoor cameras. But there are other things on offer, too, including:
- Smart lightbulbs
- Smart door locks
- Gun safes
- Garage door controllers
- Automatic vacuums
If you want to save money, you can consider a security bundle. The cheapest bundle is $60 and comprises three entry sensors, a keypad, and a base station. You can add a camera on an a la carte basis or purchase a more expensive system.
Home automation
Wyze offers some solid home automation options; the Wyze app is available for iPhone and Android, helping you integrate third-party hardware. Wyze cams are compatible with Google Assistant, Apple Homekit, and Amazon Alexa. Amazon Alexa allows you to use voice control to manage your system. You can also buy from Wyze's dedicated home automation line, which includes smart thermostats, lights, vacuums, etc.
Pricing
- Equipment: Equipment pricing varies, but Wyze is very reasonable. The most affordable cameras are only $20, and you can purchase a whole system with one camera for less than $100.
- Monthly fees: Thanks to Wyze's partnership with Noonlight, professional monitoring is available for just $5 per month.
Nerd pros
- Pricing: Wyze cameras are incredibly cheap, especially when compared to Reolink. Reolink is 3-4x the price.
- Customizable motion sensors: You can customize activity zones and motion sensitivity.
- Free cloud storage: Wyze offers plenty of free storage and live streaming via the app. You can fully monitor your home security.
- Smart home products: You can design an incredible smart home ecosystem, and the cameras mesh with various third-party integrations.
- Professional monitoring: If you purchase a security kit, you can purchase professional monitoring monthly. But this is optional, and Wyze also makes a great DIY home security system.
Nerd cons
- Mobile app: The mobile app has reported bugs and issues.
- Flimsy equipment: The equipment is reportedly flimsy, a contrast to Reolink’s very sturdy equipment.
Wyze or Reolink?
Reolink offers professional, reliable cameras with crisp image quality if you're looking for the best home security cameras. But if you're looking for smart home devices and indoor wireless security cameras, Wyze may be a more cost-effective option. Wyze also offers basic professional monitoring for just $5 per month.
Wyze offers reliable video recording and dedicated smart home automation. Reolink doesn't offer any significant home automation but has better quality cameras.
This article has been reviewed and approved by Officer 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.