How to Choose the Best PoE Network Video Recorder
When shopping for a security camera system, look for ones that use PoE technology. They offer more reliable data transmission and are less prone to interference from wireless routers and other devices.
Look for a system with at least 1TB of storage capacity for 24/7 recording. Most have expandable hard drives.
1. Power over Ethernet
Power over Ethernet is a technology that channels both power and data over the same computer networking cables used for computers. It can be a good option for security cameras that are far from an electrical outlet, or where it’s impossible to run a cable through walls or other barriers.
With the right equipment, PoE-enabled cameras can be connected directly to your router or network switch — without a separate PoE hub or repeater device. This allows them to be more secure, since they’re not susceptible to hacking or attacks from unauthorized devices. They also are less prone to the slowed speeds and unreliable connectivity of Wi-Fi connections.
Depending on the type of cameras you choose, you may want to consider a PoE security system with a built-in PoE switch. Different switches have a different best poe home security camera system “watt budget,” which is the amount of total power they can supply to PoE-enabled devices like cameras. It’s best to understand what your goals are before selecting a specific model.
For a simple-to-install, reliable PoE security camera setup, our top pick is the Reolink RLK8-810B4-A Smart 4K Security Kit. It includes an 8-camera bundle with four bullet cameras that feature high-resolution footage and a variety of useful features. For example, the cameras are vandal-resistant and have night vision that extends up to 100 feet. Footage records 24/7 to a 2TB hard drive in the NVR, with options for expanding storage.
2. Storage capacity
A PoE security camera system can be an excellent choice for businesses and home use alike. They are less prone to slowed speeds, unreliable connectivity or cyber attacks than Wi-Fi systems and are often self-monitored. As a result, they are much easier to install and maintain.
However, they still need a reliable network and internet connection to work properly. Typically, the cameras are connected to an NVR that processes and stores footage for easy playback later on. Some of the most popular PoE NVRs feature an internal hard drive for storage, while others have enough space for external storage. In either case, the most effective systems are ones that can record footage in high resolution without taking up too much space.
The best PoE NVRs, such as the one paired with our top overall pick, offer up to 4K resolution (3,840 x 2,160 pixels). This is a major upgrade from the traditional 1080p and is even better than the ultra HD 2K resolution available on some consumer TVs.
Besides the higher resolution, these systems also use advanced video coding technology to minimize the size of footage files. This helps them save plenty of space on their internal hard drives (usually 1TB or more), even when recording at high resolutions.
Another good feature of the NVRs included in this review is that they allow you to connect a USB hard drive for backup and playback of important footage. They also support multiple recording modes for your convenience. You can choose to record continuously, record at scheduled times or only when motion is detected.
3. Cameras
A good PoE security system includes cameras to best poe nvr security camera system capture footage of what’s happening at home or business. You can find systems with up to 8 cameras or more.
You’ll want to look at camera features such as resolution and field of view (FOV). Higher resolutions offer sharper images, while wider FOVs allow you to monitor more of a scene. Some cameras also include night vision for monitoring in low-light conditions. Look for a camera with high-quality IR LEDs that provide bright, clear night vision without disturbing your surroundings.
Another feature to consider is whether the camera has an integrated microphone and speakers for two-way communication. Cameras with audio recording are especially helpful for deterring intruders or communicating with guests at your door. Some cameras even have facial recognition and license-plate capture to enhance security and convenience.
While the most popular PoE systems use 8-channel NVRs, more advanced ones can support up to 32 channels of IP cameras for greater flexibility and customization. More channels mean more room for expansion, but also comes with a higher price tag.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, check out the Reolink RLK8-1200B4-A 12MP PoE Surveillance Kit. It features eight 4K cameras and a 3TB hard drive, which can be upgraded to 6TB as needed. The cameras have an ultra-wide 118deg FOV and can record in full color at up to 4K (3,840×2,160-pixel) resolution for stunning clarity and detail. They also have smart human motion detection to minimize false alerts and a white LED warning light to deter intruders.
4. Remote access
Besides providing an excellent deterrent against trespassers, burglars and other intruders, security cameras help business owners monitor their facilities to identify any potential issues. When a camera detects a disturbance, it sends the image to a central monitoring station. The operators will consult site plans and decide whether to issue audio warnings or contact the police or other emergency services. They can also remotely access video feeds from mobile devices to verify an alarm.
Many PoE security systems allow you to view and control your cameras from anywhere in the world through an app on your phone or tablet. Some even integrate with your smart home system and work with voice commands and your preferred virtual assistant.
Most PoE security camera systems feature a network video recorder (NVR) with an Ethernet port. It connects to the cameras via Ethernet cables and provides centralized control and power management. Some NVRs have built-in hard drives for storage, while others require external USB or NAS drives.
Our top pick, the Reolink RLK8-810B4-A Smart 4K PoE NVR System with 8 RLC-811A Cameras, offers an excellent balance of quality and value. It features eight IP cameras with a resolution of up to 4K (3,840 x 2,160 pixels) and an 8-megapixel sensor for impressive detail. The cameras use high-efficiency H.265 video coding to compress footage and minimize storage space needed.