The product we will discuss today is its latest entry to the smart security camera market: the Reolink RLC-411WS, which is an update from the RLC-411 with the wireless functionality hence the WS in its name.
The first thing you might notice from this product is its design, which adopts a bullet-shaped design more common in older professional security cameras, instead of following the more modern webcam-esque shape that is popular today.
Another key highlight of its quality is the 1440p video quality, which is crystal clear. Most of its competition, such as the Netgear Arlo Q and the Ring Floodlight Cam ‘only’ offer 1080p quality, while the Arlo Pro and Ring Stick Up Cam only offer a meager 720p video resolution.
The night vision is excellent with 36 infrared LEDs, able to cover 100-feet of night time range, which is among the best compared to its competition.
One other thing that further distinct the Reolink RLC-411WS apart from its competitors is the built-in 16-GB micro-SD card. While other products rely on cloud storage, often at a hefty monthly price, you can store all your videos in the micro-SD, and back it up to your PC from time to time.
To start our Reolink Wireless IP Camera review, let us begin by discussing its key features.
Key Features
1440p Video Quality
Simply among the best in the market. It is crystal clear in the day, and during the night, the quality doesn’t differ a lot, thanks to the superior 36-IR night vision technology. If video quality is important, the Reolink RLC-411WS is definitely one of the best choices.
Weatherproof and Waterproof
The bullet-shaped design and waterproof finish allow the Reolink RLC-411WS to be able to perform even in the harshest weather. It is extremely durable. If you prefer a wired setup, the cable provided is also completely waterproof.
Affordability
Even with all the great features, the Reolink RLC-411WS comes at a very affordable price, almost half of its competitors such as the Ring Stick Up Cam. The price point will certainly be a major plus point for a lot of people, especially those who are looking for a smart security camera on a budget, or in need to install multiple ones.
Local Storage
Cloud storage services can be costly in the long run, and with this product, you can save all your videos in the built-in 16GB micro SD, which can easily be upgraded or expanded with an affordable price.
The PC Software
Paired with its local storage feature, the PC software is rich in features. You can convert your H.264 recording files to AVI easily, so you can easily view it on your PC.
Our Review
As we opened the package for the Reolink Wireless Camera review, we got exactly what we expected. The packaging is very simple and to-the-point, and the instruction manual is very comprehensive.
When you first setup the camera, you will need to connect the camera with both power cable and ethernet cable. You can also opt for the power-over-Ethernet option, provided your router have the option. For the mobile app, the step-by-step instruction is very clear.
After you’ve added the camera to both your PC and mobile devices, and you have setup the Wi-Fi connection, you can disconnect the ethernet cable if you prefer to do so. The power cable, sadly, will need to be keep intact, and it can be a major hassle when you need to install this camera outdoor or on a hard-to-reach surface.
Performance-wise, it is nothing short of amazing. The video quality, both during the day and night is very crisp and clear. You can also easily tweak the settings such as brightness, contrast, etc. over the PC software of mobile app. The Wi-FI receiver is extremely stable, and we hardly see any sign of connection loss or disturbance.
The only other major downside is the limited field-of-vision, offering 36°-100° degrees of viewing angles. It is comparable to the Ring Stick Up Cam, which offers a similar field-of-vision angle, however, most other products offer wider angles from 110 to 140 degrees.
The motion-detection technology is about average. There’s certainly better products regarding the motion technology, while some also offer sound detection, such as the Nest Outdoor Camera or Arlo Pro. However, it is satisfyingly sufficient.
Here are our takes on the pros and cons for the Reolink Camera review.
- 1440p HD video quality
- Local Storage
- Very affordable
- Autofocus f=2.8 – 12mm motorized
- Decent smartphone app and PC software
- 100% Weatherproof and very durable
- Viewing angles adjustable depends on lens focus: 36°- 100°
- The wired setup can be a major hassle
You Should Buy This If
If you are looking for a crystal-clear video quality at a very decent price, there is simply not a better option. The long-term cost will also be very affordable, thanks to its built-in local storage option, which you can easily transfer the video files to your PC for later viewings.
For its price tag, the features it provides is astonishing.
Bottom Line
Let’s close our Reolink IP Camera review with a verdict.
The Reolink RLC-411WS is an excellent product with a very affordable price tag. The video quality, both during the day and night, is simply superb, among the best in its competition. The ability to locally save your video files will certainly be another plus point.
The only major drawbacks are its relatively complicated installation process, where you will need to first connect the camera to your PC with an ethernet cable, and the strictly wired setup, which can limit its positioning. If you are willing to take the extra time to reroute your wirings, this product is definitely an excellent choice.
Even with all the (minor) issues, the Reolink RLC-411WS is still an excellent product at a very affordable price.