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.
Features Breakdown: Software, Storage, and AI Detection
When comparing Reolink vs. Hikvision security cameras, hardware specs are only half the story. The real difference lies in how the camera behaves, what it detects, how it stores the data, and how it interacts with your smart home system. This is where Reolink and Hikvision diverge.
Motion Detection: Face, Person, Vehicle, & Intrusion
In the AI, Reolink is very accurate at detecting people, cars, and even pets (which is currently in beta). It works well without any complicated setup, and false alarms are rare.
For home use, this level of simplicity and accuracy is invaluable. For example, I only get a notification when someone enters my driveway, not for the neighbor’s cat or a tree swaying in the wind.
In contrast, Hikvision leaves no stone unturned when it comes to professional features. Models equipped with AcuSense technology can set up entry/exit zones, implement facial recognition, and even detect objects that have been left or moved. These features are crucial for commercial environments.
Even the basic Hikvision models benefit from line crossing or intrusion detection, provided the user takes the time to configure them properly.
So, if you’re looking for quick and hassle-free alerts, Reolink is a better choice. Still, for advanced monitoring with precise rules, Hikvision is the better choice.
Smart Home Integration: Alexa, Google & ONVIF Compatibility
When it comes to smart home integration, Reolink does better. Many of the brand’s new PoE models work with Google Assistant and Alexa, and you can view live images on devices like the Echo Show or Nest Hub. RTSP and ONVIF support also make it possible to use third-party software.
Hikvision also supports ONVIF and RTSP, but it lacks native support for voice assistants, and connecting it to other systems usually requires a more complex setup. For this reason, if you’re looking to build a smart home with everyday usability, Reolink is a better option.
SD Card & NVR Support: Local vs. Network Storage
There are also differences in terms of storage. Both brands support internal memory cards, with capacities of up to 128GB for Hikvision and up to 256GB for Reolink. This is useful for standalone use without an NVR.
Reolink also offers recording to a dedicated NVR, FTP server, and PC. Still, unlike some sources, it doesn’t support full NAS protocols, such as SMB or CIFS.
Hikvision is more advanced in this area, allowing you to connect to NAS via SMB and NFS while also offering features such as more granular management of video streams, data redundancy, and an ANR (Accidental Network Retention) feature. In commercial projects or multi-camera environments, this flexibility is essential.
Codec & Streaming: H.265+, Bitrate & Multi-Stream Capabilities
Finally, a less-considered issue is the efficiency of the codecs. Hikvision utilizes the advanced H.265+ codec, which is more efficient than the standard H.265 codec in Reolink, resulting in reduced bandwidth and storage requirements without compromising image quality.
In practice, Hikvision allows recording at a higher bit rate (up to 16 Mbps). In comparison, Reolink is typically limited to around 8 Mbps. For home use, this difference is not significant; however, in networks with multiple 4K cameras, this resource-saving becomes truly valuable.
Hikvision also allows for three simultaneous streams (main, sub, and third), while Reolink typically offers only two streams, main and sub. This feature becomes more important if multiple users are connected to the camera simultaneously or if videos are played on multiple displays.
Reolink vs. Hikvision: Build Quality, Power, and Connectivity
Materials, Housing & IP Rating
When it comes to surveillance cameras, durability is a major consideration, especially if you’re planning to mount the camera on a fence or garage door. The camera must be able to withstand a range of weather conditions, including rain, extreme heat, and dust.
In this regard, the Hikvision DS-2CD2085G1-I camera features an IP67 rating, indicating it’s completely dustproofed and can withstand heavy rain or direct water spray. Its metal body feels more professional and can withstand harsh environments.
In contrast, the Reolink RLC-810A is IP66-certified, meaning it’s resistant to rain and dust. Still, it’s more likely to be damaged in harsher environments. The body of this model is made of plastic, which is lighter in weight but a bit weaker in terms of long-term durability.
After comparing Reolink vs. Hikvison in terms of build quality, I can say both cameras perform well in normal weather conditions. Still, if the installation location is exposed to strong winds, coastal humidity, or intense sunlight, Hikvision will be a safer choice.
Both withstand typical weather, but in harsher elements, like gale winds, salty air, or searing sun, Hikvision proves the sturdier pick.
Power Requirements & PoE Support
In terms of power supply, both cameras support PoE (Power over Ethernet) technology, meaning that both data and power can be transmitted over a single network cable. This feature simplifies installation and also provides a more stable connection.
Here’s how they differ:
- Hikvision draws up to 7.5W of power under IR load and can be powered by 12V DC or PoE (802.3af).
- Reolink draws slightly more, up to 12W, also supporting 12V DC or standard PoE.
In practice, this difference in power consumption becomes significant when powering multiple cameras simultaneously via a PoE switch.
For example, I manage four RLC-810A cameras with a 60-watt switch, and I have no problem. Still, for larger installations, the switch output power needs to be calculated more accurately.
Wired vs. Wireless Stability
One last thing about the connection type: both cameras in the comparison are not wireless and only work via a PoE network cable, a good choice for those looking for stable and professional performance.
Of course, Reolink’s product line also includes Wi-Fi or battery-powered models, which are very useful for simpler applications or temporary installations. However, these models can experience connection drops in large environments or those with thick walls, as some of my customers have reported.
On the other hand, Hikvision has traditionally focused on wired and professional solutions, which means they provide more stability in sensitive environments or entry points.
If stability and zero downtime are a priority (for entry points or high-risk areas), opt for wired PoE, regardless of the brand.
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.
