Here’s your complete Reolink vs. Hikvision comparison! I’ve had extensive hands-on experience with both brands. From installing in private homes to working with NVR systems and devices like Blue Iris and Synology NAS. Let’s take an honest look at the key differences between these two video surveillance giants.
Meet the Brands: Reolink and Hikvision in Context
Reolink: A DIY Favorite for Smart Home Owners
Founded in Hong Kong in 2009, Reolink has carved out a niche for itself in the DIY home security with affordable cameras like the RLC-810A. The brand is a good choice for homeowners seeking easy installation, smart detection, and control via a mobile app.
Reolink devices support PoE and record to SD cards. They are compatible with ONVIF-compliant NVRs and voice assistants, such as Google Assistant and Alexa. While their low-light and wide dynamic range (WDR) performance isn’t up to par, at under $150 per camera, they’re a solid option for those looking to build a smart home on a budget.
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Hikvision: The Professional’s Choice
Hikvision, which began operations in China in 2001, holds a significant market share in the commercial and enterprise video surveillance sectors. The brand’s cameras offer professional features, including 120dB WDR, advanced low-light sensors, and advanced motion analytics.
On the other hand, the installation process is more complicated, the user software can be somewhat challenging for beginners, and due to sanctions, the brand is limited in certain countries. However, for large spaces, Hikvision remains a solid and professional choice.
A Note on Privacy and Global Use
Hikvision’s ties to the Chinese government have led to its use being restricted or banned in countries like the United States and India. Reolink has no such ties and focuses more on local control, memory card storage, and encrypted connectivity.
So, if privacy is a priority for you, Reolink could be a safer option.
Camera Comparison: Reolink RLC-810A vs. Hikvision DS-2CD2085G1-I
Choosing between Reolink and Hikvision often comes down to comparing some of their most widely used bullet cameras. I’ve used both brands: I use the RLC-810A in my smart home, and I’ve installed the Hikvision DS-2CD2085G1-I in several commercial projects.
Below, I’ll share my experience comparing the two cameras.
Image Quality & Low-Light Performance
Both cameras offer 4K resolution (3840 x 2160, 8MP), but the differences become apparent in low-light or high-contrast conditions. The Hikvision camera performs better in low light conditions thanks to its larger 1/2-inch sensor, whereas Reolink utilizes a 1/2.49-inch sensor.
During the day, there’s not much of a difference, but after dusk, the Hikvision image remains clearer and less noisy.
In my experience, the RLC-810A performed well in bright spaces like a porch or parking lot, but in darker areas, Hikvision retained more detail. Of course, Reolink has improved its low-light smart detection and still detects motion well despite the loss in image quality.
Lens & Field of View (FOV)
There are also differences in the lens. The Reolink RLC-810A features a fixed 4.0mm lens with an 87-degree horizontal field of view and a 44-degree vertical field of view.
Some sites mistakenly confuse it with the 2.8mm model, which is the RLC-820A. In contrast, Hikvision offers a wider variety of lens options: 2.8mm (about 102 degrees), 4mm (78 degrees), and 6mm (50 degrees).
If you need a wider field of view, the Hikvision 2.8mm lens is a good choice. However, for narrow, deep spaces like hallways or parking lots, the Reolink 4.0mm lens is a better option, as it is not too wide, distortion-free, and provides sharp focus on critical areas.
Infrared Night Vision Capabilities
In terms of infrared night vision, both cameras have a range of approximately 30 meters (about 100 ft) and perform similarly in this regard. However, Hikvision’s larger sensor makes better use of IR light, especially in spaces with little ambient light.
The Reolink sometimes shows excessive reflection or glare from nearby objects, which, while not a problem, is noticeable. On the other hand, Hikvision’s IR light is more uniform and balanced, and there are fewer harsh shadows or very bright spots.
WDR: True vs. Digital
Hikvision also has a technical advantage in terms of WDR technology. The brand utilizes true 120dB WDR, which expertly balances the image in contrasting lighting conditions, such as a home entrance in direct sunlight or a camera mounted facing a window.
Reolink instead uses digital WDR, which is a form of software processing. This helps to some extent, but in head-to-head comparisons, Hikvision delivers a more transparent, more balanced image.
Both record in 4K, but Hikvision’s larger sensor excels in the shadows, capturing cleaner, sharper footage. Reolink holds up in well-lit spots and still flags motion reliably, though detail fades in the dark.
Final Thoughts: Reolink vs. Hikvision Debate
This was my complete Reolink vs. Hikvision comparison! Both brands have their strengths. Reolink is ideal for smart homes. Its user-friendly app, voice assistant support, and features make it an excellent option for home use. In contrast, Hikvision is better suited for more professional spaces and detailed surveillance. Ultimately, you should base your decision on your actual needs; the “best” camera is the one that works well in your situation and meets your expectations.
