Comparing Reolink vs. Amcrest can be a bit of a challenge, especially if you’re just beginning to build a smart, secure home. I’m the founder of Smart Home Scope, and I’ve been testing both brands for some time now. In this guide, I’ll share my insights to help you make the right call.
Reolink vs. Amcrest: Brands Overview
A Brief Introduction of Amcrest
Amcrest aims to deliver a high-performance, budget-friendly surveillance solution. Their solid camera hardware and reliable performance have earned them popularity over the years, especially among users who prioritize affordability.
Their products lean more on the traditional side but with advanced control and customization. Amcrest’s customers are usually DIY lovers and smart business owners.
A Brief Introduction to Reolink
Reolink, on the other hand, introduces itself as a brand that’s focused on simplicity and smarter technology. Innovation is their wild card. They were among the first companies to introduce wireless, 4G LTE-compatible cameras and AI-driven smart detection.
Reolink is a better choice for people deeply in love with smart homes; their products easily integrate with smart ecosystems like Google Assistant and Alexa.
In addition, for more comparisons between Reolink and other security brands, you can read my Reolink vs. Eufy guide as well.
Reolink vs. Amcrest: Product Range Comparison
Camera Types and Models
Amcrest mainly offers wired cameras that are suitable for indoor and outdoor use. Their product range is solid and includes a variety of bullet, dome, and PTZ cameras. Their IP cameras really stood out for me because they offered decent reliability and consistency.
On the other hand, Reolink pulls ahead in the wireless game. Their product range includes cameras that operate on batteries along with 4K models that work with solar power. I’ve personally worked with their Argus series, and they’re pretty easy to install. The app is also very intuitive and doesn’t offer a learning curve.
Amcrest anchors itself in reliable wired cameras, while Reolink thrives with effortlessly installed wireless and solar models like the Argus series, paired with a refreshingly intuitive app.
NVR Systems
What makes a difference here is the fact that Amcrest NVRs support ONVIF standards, making them universally compatible. Meaning they can support third-party cameras. Their NVRs support up to 16 to 32 channels, which is perfect for scaling.
On the other hand, Reolink’s NVRs don’t offer the same level of compatibility, but they work very well with Reolink’s own cameras.
Reolink vs Amcrest: Video Quality and Performance
Resolution and Frame Rates
In terms of resolution and frame rates, both brands offer cameras that are capable of recording high-resolution footage.
While both brands offer impressive quality, Reolink’s cameras can go higher in this area. They’ve got models that can go as high as 12MP and 16MP (Reolink Duo 3 WiFi). If you’re monitoring a crowded area where you need to catch every detail and zoom in on different objects, Reolink can do the job for you.
Amcrest isn’t far behind in resolution. They have cameras that offer 4K (8MP) resolution, which is still recognizable. However, Amcrest’s real strength lies in delivering smoother video playback because some of their models, like the Amcrest IP8M-T2599EW-AI-V3, can offer 30fps frame rates, which helps with less motion blur and a more fluid experience.
In addition, both brands use H.265 (High-Efficiency Video Coding) compression that can reduce file sizes effectively without losing video quality.
Night Vision Capabilities
This is the area where Reolink pushes forward again, but this doesn’t mean that Amcrest’s night vision is awful, their strong infrared night vision is solid. Amcrest’s cameras can cover up to 98 feet in total darkness with a clear picture that’s noise free. I’ve relied on them for nighttime perimeter checks, and they can get the job done very well.
Amcrest is very good, that’s right; but when I tested Reolink’s starlight night vision, especially on models like the RLC-911A, I was faced with something I had never seen before, it was a real leap in nighttime visibility.
The nighttime picture on Reolink cameras isn’t just flat black-and-white IR footage; it’s color video even in dim lightning. The sensors that detect low light are incredibly sensitive; it feels like you have a streetlight out there, even when the pitch is dark. So, Reolink is a clear winner in this area.
Amcrest holds its own in the dark, but Reolink’s starlight vision, painting color across the black, leaves it in the dust.
Smart Features and Integration
AI and Motion Detection
Reolink equips its cameras with AI that actually feels very smart. Their cameras can distinguish between people, vehicles, and even pets. I really like this because I won’t get pinged every time my neighbor’s cat strolls across my yard!
Their Reolink Argus 3 Pro has kept me from tons of unnecessary alerts. For instance, tree branches that are being moved by wind are accurately ignored. On the other hand, it once tagged a delivery van, which made me sure I’ve got a smart product.
Amcrest offers motion detection too and lately they’ve been adding some interesting AI features into their newer cameras. But, still Reolink has the upper hand here, because with Amcrest, I’d still get the occasional false notification, especially on their older models.
Also Read:
Best Smart Home Security Systems
Smart Home Compatibility
If you’re a smart home fan like me, you definitely want your security system to integrate well within your smart home ecosystem.
Reolink works with Alexa and Google Assistant. I’ve easily connected their cameras to my Google Nest Hub and Alexa Echo Show.
Reolink’s overall smart home compatibility is basic, but still, it has some interesting functionalities. For instance, you can say “Alexa, show me the front door” and get a live feed on compatible devices.
Additionally, the good news for Home Assistant users is that Reolink integrates very well with Home Assistant. This integration opens a world of automation possibilities for your security system and leads to extensive control.
On the other hand, Amcrest takes a more traditional approach to this matter. They’ve always been on the surveillance side than smart home integration. Still, their cameras support Alexa and let users to watch live feeds on compatible devices like an Echo Show.
A key difference here is that Amcrest’s compatibility with Home Assistant isn’t as deep as Reolink; I mean, it is possible, but not nearly as good as Reolink.
Another important factor that gives the lead to Reolink here is its Unified platform. All smart home stuff can be managed through one app (Reolink App & Client), while Amcrest utilizes multiple apps for this purpose (Amcrest SmartHome and Amcrest View Pro).
Winner: Reolink’s deep integration with Home Assistant, plus its unified app, make it the winner in this category.
Conclusion
This was my complete Reolink vs. Amcrest guide! After spending a lot of time testing these two brands’ products, I’d say Reolink is the better choice for homeowners who don’t want to get too technical; on the other hand, Amcrest is for pros who need customizable systems with rugged build quality.
