Wyze vs Swann Cameras

When it comes to home security systems, one of the most crucial parts of your system is your cameras. CCTV can be an excellent deterrent or provide additional evidence if you're the victim of a crime.

If you decide to buy new home security cameras, you'll have plenty of providers to consider. Wyze and Swann are two great options.

Wyze was started in 2017 by ex-Amazon employees; Wyze is known for providing affordable, feature-packed cameras.

Swann is best known for providing flexible DIY home security systems. Today we'll be taking an in-depth look at each provider to see what they can offer you.

Wyze vs Swann: What do they have in common?

• HD cameras: Wyze and Swann offer crisp 1080p HD video quality. You'll be able to see precise details if you need to watch the footage back later.
• Mobile app: You can manage your security system via a trusty mobile app. The apps are available on iOS and Android. The mobile app will send you notifications if the motion detection features are activated.
• Two-way audio: You can use two-way talk to make it seem like you're home, even if you're not.
• Video doorbells: Wyze and Swann offer doorbell cameras, a simple but effective way for you to monitor your home security.
• Pan,tilt, zoom: Many cameras from these brands will allow you to pan, tilt and zoom to get a better view.
• Customizable activity zones: You can customize your activity zones and manually set your system to notify you of any issues in a predetermined area.

Wyze vs Swann: What are the differences?

• Video storage options: Wyze is primarily set up for cloud storage, but Swann has additional DVR (digital video recorder) and NVR (network video recorder) options.
• Color night vision: Swann outdoor cameras have color night vision.
• Weather resistant: Swann has more cameras set up for outdoor use; they are designed to be weatherproof.
• Person detection: Wyze offers person detection with several of its indoor security cameras.
• Professional monitoring: Wyze offers professional monitoring for $5 per month. Swann is a DIY-only system.
• Heat sensors: Swann offers cameras with advanced heat sensors.
• Hardware quality: Swann has some of the highest quality hardware; Wyze has some poor reviews for flimsy equipment.

Swann: What you need to know

Swann is a great home security provider; they've been in the industry for decades and have an international presence.

Swann is an experienced home security provider with decades in the industry and a global presence. They offer quality, professionally monitored systems and some of the best home security cameras in the industry. Let's take a look at their specs.

Installation

The setup is pretty simple, depending on what you choose. The app has some FAQs and is user-friendly. Wireless security cameras are the easiest to install; the typical installation is around 30 minutes. The larger NVR systems may require professional assistance, which you can purchase via InstallerNet.

Equipment

Swann has a lot of quality equipment to explore; the majority of Swann's security equipment includes:

• Wire-free smart security cameras and video doorbells
• Outdoor 1080p HD cameras
• 4-16 Channel NVR systems
• Pan and tilt cam

Additional accessories available include:

• Garage parking sensors
• Home doorbell camera kit
• Solar panels
• Dummy cams
• Extra mounting stands

Home automation

Your new system is compatible with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. You can use voice control with Amazon Alexa, but Swann doesn't offer many third-party integrations. There is no dedicated smart home automation.

Pricing

• Equipment costs: Equipment costs for most systems start at $75 for an individual camera to $500 for a basic home system. Purchasing an NVR may cost more.
• Monthly fees: Monthly fees begin at $9.99 for emergency response, live feed view, and extended warranty.

Nerd pros

• Cameras: You'll have an array of camera models on offer. They don't skimp on choices and range from basic doorbell cameras to bells and whistles installations.
• No contract: You'll benefit from flexibility when you purchase a Swann system; customers don't get locked into a lengthy contract.
• Camera features: There are various unique features, including heat-activated motion sensors.

Nerd cons

• Pay for storage: Although you get a limited free storage allowance, it's only for two days. You'll need to pay a fee for more than this. DVR systems have local storage but are more expensive.
• Customer service: Due to a global presence, some third-party sellers of Swann equipment exist. Customer support can be variable.
• App complaints: Although iOS users seem to enjoy the Swann app, there are some complaints about bugs in the Android application.

Wyze: What you need to know

Wyze was launched in 2017 by ex-Amazon employees planning to provide feature-packed affordable cameras. The cameras start at under $30, providing excellent features, including adjustable motion sensitivity.

Installation

Wyze's installation couldn't be more uncomplicated, particularly if you're purchasing a Wi-Fi camera. There's no installation service, but installation is effortless. You connect your new camera to a power outlet, wait a few seconds, then hold the setup button. Voice prompts walk you through the setup.

Equipment

Wyze offers doorbell cameras and indoor cameras.

Most Wyze cams, such as the Wyze Cam V3, have a 130-degree field of view.

Several other types of equipment are available, including garage door controllers, smart locks, light bulbs, and robot vacuums.

If purchasing home security equipment, you should consider buying one of the money-saving bundles.

The basic Wyze Starter Kit costs just $60 and is one of the cheapest. The $60 kit includes:

• Keypad
• Basestation
• Three entry sensors

Home automation

Wyze offers several smart home options. The Wyze app is a helpful assistant, but you can enjoy additional devices, including If This Then That (IFTTT) equipment (Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa). Wyze has a dedicated smart home range, including robotic vacuums, smart thermostats, and more.

Pricing

• Equipment: Equipment prices vary; Wyze is one of the cheapest providers. Wyze cameras start at $20, and security kits start at $60.
• Monthly fees: Wyze charges $5 monthly for professional monitoring.

Nerd pros

• Pricing: Wyze cameras are feature-packed and a fraction of the cost of competitors.
• Free cloud storage: Wyze provides plenty of free storage and live streaming via the app.
• Battery-powered backup: Wyze sense hub has a battery backup, though a power outage may still affect your system.
• Smart home devices: You can control your system with Amazon Alexa.
• Professional monitoring: Basic professional monitoring is provided for Wyze customers that purchase an equipment package, but it's optional. Wyze offers excellent DIY monitoring.
• Customizable motion sensors: Your motion zones and sensitivity are customizable.

Nerd cons

• Mobile app: The mobile app has some bugs and reported issues.
• Hardware quality: Wyze hardware doesn't get the best reviews; Swann seems to offer better quality hardware.

Wyze or Swann?

Wyze and Swann offer several similar benefits, including 1080p video recording, smart home automation, and two-way audio. But there are key differences.

If you're looking for a new camera system, Wyze is an excellent investment. They offer cheap surveillance cameras starting from just $20, but the quality may suffer somewhat. The best outdoor security cameras are provided by Swann; the floodlight camera is affordable and presents an excellent deterrence against would-be intruders. If you're looking for quality and longevity, Swann is the better provider.