Reolink vs Lorex (2021): Comparing Their Best Security Cameras

Reolink and Lorex are just two of the most popular names when it comes to top-quality security cameras. As surveillance is essential in homes and businesses, these devices come in different types and forms. From portable indoor cameras to 4K-capable PTZ systems, each has its pros and cons. Below, we’ve identified the top-rated models from Reolink and Lorex and compared them head to head.

Reolink vs Lorex Security Camera Comparison Chart

Reolink vs Lorex Indoor Camera

Get the Reolink E1 if you need a budget HD indoor camera with reliable pan and tilt. Opt for the Lorex W261AQC-E if you need better local storage out of the box.

Indoor cameras are a great way of checking on your family and your home. Here, the Reolink E1 Pan-Tilt Indoor Camera is a favorite among consumers. With its budget-friendly price, you get HD video resolution and high-quality night vision. The latter feature, for instance, benefits from 8 infrared LEDs so you can see up to 40 feet in the dark. Its main draw, however, is the ability to pan 355º horizontally and tilt 50º vertically. For many homeowners, the broadened view adds to one’s peace of mind. Plus, the Reolink E1 is easy to set up and comes with two-way audio.

For double the price of the Reolink E1, you can get your hands on the Lorex W261AQC-E Indoor Camera. Like the Reolink, the Lorex W261AQC-E boasts pan and tilt capabilities. It even adds 16x digital zoom to the mix. Lorex’s indoor camera, however, has built-in microSD storage up to 256GB compared to Reolink’s 128GB. To secure your home, the model even comes with person detection technology. When it comes to night vision, Reolink will have the edge; the Lorex indoor camera’s night vision range is up to 33 feet only.

Reolink vs Lorex Turret Camera

The Lorex turret camera has a clear edge over the Reolink. Nonetheless, Reolink offers a more affordable device.

Turret cameras are becoming the preferred camera of choice among many customers. Not only are they easier to install, but they also remove the glass dome that is prone to attract dirt and dust. For Reolink, the RLC-520 5MP/4MP Security IP Camera is one of the highly-rated models in the brand’s catalog. Lorex, on the other hand, boasts the LNE8974BW 4K Nocturnal IP Security Camera. Both devices support Power over Ethernet (PoE) installation and are also equipped with motion detection technology.

The Reolink RLC-520 uses a 5MP camera to capture and record 2560x1920p video resolution. On the other hand, the Lorex LNE8974BW employs an 8MP camera for 4K video recording. Its night vision range is also up to 250 feet — more than twice that of the RLC-520. The motorized zoom lens on the Lorex supports 4x optical zoom as well. Where Reolink has the edge, however, is that it supports 64GB SD cards. Both turret cameras are waterproof and are ceiling mountable. They also come with audio recording features.

Reolink vs Lorex Bullet Camera

Reolink’s RLC-410 bullet camera is a better budget model than the Lorex LBV2711.

If you need a longer range for surveillance, then a bullet camera is a compelling purchase. The Reolink RLC-410 5MP Security IP Camera, for instance, has a night vision range of 100 feet. It also features an 80-degree ultra-wide viewing angle. Meanwhile, the Lorex LBV2711 HD Bullet Security Camera lays claim to its 150-feet night vision range. In complete darkness, you can still see up to 100 feet, thanks to the cutting-edge IR LEDs. There’s even a SmartIR feature for close-up recognition.

Still, Reolink’s fixed-position bullet cam is no pushover. The RLC-410 comes with 3D dynamic noise reduction to make images clearer and sharper, including those captured in low light. It also brandishes a built-in microphone for audio recording, something the Lorex LBV2711 misses out on. Plus, the Reolink is equipped with a 5MP camera for up to 2560x1920p video resolution. On the LBV2711, you’ll have to settle with a 2MP camera and 1080p recording resolution.

Reolink vs Lorex PTZ Camera

The Reolink PTZ camera offers a slightly higher resolution but the Lorex LNZ44P12B is equipped with more powerful zoom and night mode capabilities.

For monitoring larger areas like parking lots, malls, or even a farm, a PTZ camera is your best bet. With its large 5MP camera and multiple IR LEDs, the Reolink RLC-423 High Speed PTZ Camera is ideal for this wider surveillance. The RLC-423’s camera, for instance, features a motorized zoom lens and auto-focus function. With this setup, you get 4x optical zoom as well. To get a good view of your property, Reolink has also equipped the RLC-423 with a 360-degree pan and 90-degree tilt. Plus, the model supports multiple recording options, including via SD card.

Meanwhile, the Lorex LNZ44P12B HD Outdoor PTZ IP Camera is equipped with a 4MP camera. While lower than Reolink’s, the LNZ44P12B still delivers a 2K video resolution recording. For close surveillance, the Lorex PTZ camera boasts 12x optical zoom along with 16x digital zoom. Its main draw, however, is the impressive 330-feet night vision range. On the RLC-423, you only get a night vision range of 190-feet of night. Both Reolink and Lorex cameras support PoE installation. They’re also IP66-certified and ensured safe for outdoor installation.

Verdict

Reolink security cameras are more affordable across the board. However, Lorex devices tend to offer better zoom capabilities and night vision range.

A look at the extensive catalog of both Reolink and Lorex shows that the former offers more affordable security cameras. This is true regardless if it’s an outdoor model or a feature-packed PTZ camera. In some cases, however, Reolink’s affordability is at the expense of advanced features. Lorex devices, for instance, typically offer better zoom capabilities and night vision range. Some models are also more weather-proof than their Reolink counterparts.

But if you’re looking for an entry-level device, you won’t go wrong with Reolink. It’s a great brand to start securing your home or business. The Reolink E1 Indoor Camera, for instance, is a favorite among consumers, thanks to its price and versatility. It’s our top pick, too. For the top of the line options, however, we recommend the Lorex LNZ44P12B PTZ Camera. With colored night vision and powerful zoom capabilities, it offers the best coverage among the models reviewed.

FAQs