Here’s your complete Reolink vs. Swann breakdown! I’ve tested PoE systems, 4K NVR kits, and wireless cameras from both Reolink and Swann, and the differences go far beyond what the spec sheets suggest.
One nails Alexa and Google Assistant integration, while the other hides some quirky surprises in motion detection. If you’re torn between them, this honest side-by-side will make your decision a whole lot easier.
Reolink vs. Swann: Video Quality Showdown (Day & Night)
Resolution, FPS, Field of View
Both Reolink and Swann offer 4K resolution, but the differences are in the details.
Reolink cameras (like the B800 and the Spotlight 4K models) shoot at a full 3840×2160 resolution at 20 frames per second. Their field of view is slightly wider, at around 97 degrees, which is better for covering yards, driveways, and open spaces.
In contrast, Swann cameras (the Thermal and Spotlight models) are also 4K, but their frame rate is 15 FPS, and their field of view is around 93 degrees.
While the image resolution is still high, the lower frame rate causes a slight loss of fluidity in scenes with fast movement, like someone running across a yard.
In action, the smoother video from Reolink results in sharper frames during fast-moving events, which is a significant advantage when reviewing events.
Both claim 4K, yet Reolink’s 20 FPS and broader 97° sweep eclipse Swann’s 15 FPS and 93°, yielding silkier, crisper motion in fleeting moments.
Daytime Footage and Running Tests
In daytime testing, both brands delivered sharp images, but the Reolink’s higher frame rate and slightly better contrast allowed it to capture more frames without blurring as it moved around the yard.
Swann had a bit of motion blur, though its color accuracy was better and closer to reality in natural light, while the Reolink has a warmer theme.
Night Vision Clarity & Spotlight Performance
In night testing, the Reolink’s standard IR model delivered decent black-and-white images up to about 30 meters, and the Spotlight model with its floodlight captured good color detail at close range (about 8 meters), but its angle of coverage was limited.
In contrast, the Swann’s standard Thermal model has an IR range of up to 45 meters, and its Spotlight model has a better angle of coverage and captures more color detail up to about 10 meters, with a stronger two-way microphone.
However, both struggled to read license plates under IR light.
Overall, if nighttime color clarity with wider coverage is essential, the Swann Spotlight is the better choice; but for smoother daytime images and better clarity in motion, the Reolink is the better choice.
Swann vs. Reolink: Motion Detection & Smart Alerts: Who Watches?
Honestly, no one likes a security system that alerts them every few minutes for no reason. The quality of a camera depends not only on the resolution of the image, but also on its ability to detect motion.
After using Reolink and Swann for a long time, I realized that motion detection is a common weakness of both.
Pixel vs PIR: False Alerts Explained
On Reolink, most PoE models, such as the B800, use a pixel-based motion detection system. As a result, any change in the image, like the movement of branches, the passage of clouds, or even an insect at night, can trigger an alert.
Even with the sensitivity reduced and specific zones set, I still received dozens of false alerts per day.
Swann uses a combination of PIR (heat detection) and pixel-based detection, which is better at distinguishing people and cars from background motion and reduces the noise of alerts.
However, on hot days, the thermal sensor can become faulty and register the heat of asphalt or shadows as motion.
Ultimately, you shouldn’t expect the accuracy of AI systems like Nest or Ring from these NVRs; they mostly record everything and leave the final decision-making to the user.
Reolink floods you with false alerts from the slightest shifts, while Swann’s hybrid detection tames this, though heat can still deceive it. These NVRs capture all, leaving the burden of discernment on you.
Notification Speed and Customization
With Reolink, notifications arrive on your phone almost instantly after motion is detected, typically within 2-3 seconds on LTE.
The app lets you schedule, set detection zones, and even sound alerts, but it still works based on pixel-by-pixel motion unless you have a model like the RLC 810A with human/vehicle detection.
Swann is about the same speed and has more features than the Spotlight version, like activating an alarm, controlling lights, and adjusting sensitivity. The problem is that the app is sometimes slow, and you have to tap multiple times to execute a command, which is annoying.
The problem they both have is a lack of consistency; they work great one day, and the next, they see the cat but not the Amazon delivery guy.
So, if motion detection is critical to you, Swann is a bit more reliable with its PIR sensor, but you’ll still get false alerts. I’ve turned off push notifications myself and mostly use 24-hour recording; the motion zones are only helpful for quick review of footage, not live alerts.
Also Read:
Reolink vs. Ring
Conclusion
After years of using both brands, in our Reolink vs. Swann battle, I believe Reolink is the better option in terms of value for money and system flexibility. On the other hand, Swann has a slight edge in terms of better floodlight coverage and PIR motion sensor accuracy. For those looking for a scalable system with a smoother and more functional smart home experience, I recommend Reolink.
