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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

Model NameImageCategoryPrice
Reolink E1 Pan-Tilt Indoor CameraAmazon product
Indoor CameraAmazon product
Lorex W261AQC-E 1080p Full HD Indoor CameraAmazon productIndoor CameraAmazon product
Reolink RLC-520 5MP/4MP Security IP CameraAmazon productTurret CameraAmazon product
Lorex LNE8974BW 4K Nocturnal IP Security CameraAmazon productTurret CameraAmazon product
Reolink RLC-410 5MP PoE Security IP CameraAmazon productBullet CameraAmazon product
Lorex LBV2711 Series HD Bullet Security CameraAmazon productBullet CameraAmazon product
Reolink RLC-423 5MP High Speed PTZ CameraAmazon productPTZ CameraAmazon product
Lorex LNZ44P12B 2K HD Outdoor PTZ IP CameraAmazon productPTZ CameraAmazon product

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.

Reolink vs Lorex Indoor Camera
Both the Reolink E1 and the Lorex W261AQC-E are compatible with smart home assistants.

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 355ΒΊ horizontally and tilt 50ΒΊ 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 E1 Pan-Tilt Indoor Camera

Pros

  • Reliable pan and tilt feature
  • Flexible recording options

Cons

  • No motion tracking feature
  • Power cable is too long

Lorex W261AQC-E Indoor Camera

Pros

  • Expandable microSD storage
  • Built-in privacy mode

Cons

  • Some NVR PTZ features are not supported

Reolink vs Lorex Turret Camera

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

Reolink vs Lorex Turret Camera
The Reolink RLC-520 (left) and the Lorex LNE8974BW (right).

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 β€” 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.

RLC-520 5MP/4MP Security IP Camera

Pros

  • SD card support
  • Easy to set up and install

Cons

  • No zoom feature
  • No turn-off option via app

Lorex LNE8974BW 4K Nocturnal IP Security Camera

Pros

  • Impressive video quality
  • Durable, weatherproof design

Cons

  • Motorized zoom is fixed
  • Microphones are too sensitive

Reolink vs Lorex Bullet Camera

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

Reolink vs Lorex Bullet Camera
Both Reolink and Lorex bullet security cameras are budget models you can get under $50.

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 RLC-410 5MP Security IP Camera

Pros

  • Support for multiple users
  • Plug and play set up
  • Smart motion detection

Cons

  • Reolink watermark on images

Lorex LBV2711 HD Bullet Security Camera

Pros

  • Heavy-duty metal housing
  • Versatile mounting options
  • Anti-glare feature

Cons

  • No audio recording

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.

Reolink vs Lorex PTZ Camera
Reolink and Lorex PTZ cameras come with flexible mounting options.

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.

Reolink RLC-423 5MP High Speed PTZ Camera

Pros

  • Works with FTP server
  • Intuitive remote access to streams
  • Motion detection with alerts

Cons

  • Zoom function not as accurate

Lorex LNZ44P12B 2K HD Outdoor PTZ IP Camera

Pros

  • Support for color night vision
  • Powerful optical and digital zoom

Cons

  • Remote control operation is not precise

Verdict

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

Amazon product

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

πŸ“Œ Is Reolink a better brand than Lorex?

Reolink is one of the more popular names when it comes to security cameras. Compared to Lorex, Reolink’s catalog is typically more affordable. If talking about value for money, Reolink is better than Lorex. However, some Reolink cameras miss out on more advanced features.

πŸ“Œ How long is the warranty on the Reolink E1 Indoor Camera?

The Reolink E1 Indoor Camera carries a two-year limited warranty.

πŸ“Œ Is the Lorex LNE8974BW turret camera available in white?

No, the Lorex LNE8974BW 4K camera only comes in a black variant. If you want a white turret camera, you can opt for the Lorex LNE8964AB 4K Ultra HD instead.

πŸ“Œ Where is Lorex headquartered?

Lorex currently has head offices in Ontario, Canada, and Maryland, USA.

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Mari Bassig

Senior Editor, writer and researcher passionate about gadgets, social media, and music.