TLDR Review: Reolink 5MP Video Doorbell
Pros
- •No ongoing subscription fees thanks to local storage via microSD card support (up to 256 GB officially, with some users successfully using even 400 GB cards).
- •Easy, useriendly setup that works well even for those not tech-savvy, with a straightforward app and no mandatory account creation.
- •Excellent video quality with sharp 5MP resolution, outstanding night vision infrared imaging, and clear daytime footage.
- •Smart detection reliably identifies people, vehicles, and animals, sending frequent motion alerts to your smartphone.
- •Automatic overwrite function means you don’t have to worry about storage filling up.
- •Wired installation works smoothly with existing doorbell transformers, making replacement hassle minimal.
- •Durable build expected to withstand harsh weather conditions including extreme cold and sun exposure.
- •Customizable notifications and the ability to add unlimited devices make the app versatile and useriendly.
- •Second version of this model brings notable improvements over earlier releases.
Cons
- •Wi connection can be unstable, often disconnecting unless the doorbell is very close to the router, causing frustrating reliability issues.
- •Push notifications are inconsistent and may fail to alert you when needed.
- •The included wireless chime is difficult to pair and poorly designed; the doorbell doesn’t integrate with existing home chimes, reducing convenience.
- •Software and app bugs lead to ongoing connection problems, with some users experiencing autockout issues that require manual tweaking.
- •The doorbell button stays illuminated constantly, causing the device to heat up, potentially risking damage or malfunction, especially in warm weather.
- •Customer support is slow and requires persistence, though eventually responsive with replacement options.
- •Some reports of motion image distortion and communication glitches in colder weather, with firmware updates failing to fully resolve these problems.
- •Video quality deteriorates during motion, showing smearing or blurring effects.
- •Lack of clear user manuals or troubleshooting guides makes programming and setup less straightforward than it could be.
Bottom Line
The REOLINK Doorbell WiFi Camera offers strong hardware with crisp 5MP video, excellent night vision, and no subscription fees thanks to local storage. It’s a solid choice if you want a wired doorbell camera that prioritizes privacy and affordability with a user-friendly app. However, be prepared to wrestle with some unreliable Wi-Fi connectivity, buggy software, and an underwhelming chime system that’s hard to pair. If stable connection and seamless smart home integration are priorities, you might want to watch for firmware updates or consider alternatives with stronger wireless connectivity and better chime options. Still, for those looking to avoid subscription traps and want robust video quality, this is a practical pick.
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