Best Budget 4K Security Camera NVR System Comparison - Zosi vs Reolink

Today, we are going to compare 2 Security Camera NVR Systems that are pretty affordable and budget friendly. For Price to Features, either of these 2 systems, you will get the most bang for your buck. We have the Zosi 4K NVR system that is the cheapest that I have reviewed and it has all the features that you want for a security camera. We also have the Reolink, which the RLC-812A bundle will be the one compared on this video. Both systems comes in a kit with a 2TB 8 channel NVR and 4 cameras. We will compare the video quality, its AI detection, detection distance, and 2 way audio and see which system would be a good option for your home.
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Zosi 4K NVR Security Camera System - amzn.to/45ootFm
Reolink 4K NVR System RLC812A - amzn.to/3wLop2X
Zosi 4K NVR System Review - • ZOSI 4K PoE NVR Camera...
Reolink Playlist - bit.ly/3LLA2ez
00:00 Introduction
00:59 Systems Comparison
01:40 Video Quality Daytime
03:44 Video Quality Night Time
06:15 Side By Side Video Comparison
06:34 Motion alert speed , Cool OFF
08:03 Detection Distance Testing
10:05 Audio and Siren Quality
10:43 Thoughts
#lifehackster #zosisecurity #reolinksecurity
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[@joyfulltoo9797]

Thanks for the very detailed comparison! The information presented was clear and extremely helpful. Showing the side by side shots from the cameras made my choice much easier. Again, thanks!👍🏽

[@mistermichael9753]

Thanks. Great Review. Am really thinking of buying the Zosi system as my 1st budget wired camera system. Thanks again homie!👍

[@indranisbrunswick3260]

Your videos are great and saved me a ton. Always my go to when setting something new up thanks man!

[@LifeHackster]

You are welcome.

[@crs1474]

Very nice thorough review on these . Great channel overall.

[@umibooozu]

Very good and personal tests there, thank you

[@Bo-Jarrah]

Great review, thank you

[@YukonHawk1]

Yes please .... Individual test. Thanks for all you do

[@LifeHackster]

Will do! Thanks.

[@lancerudy9934]

Great video 😊 thanks

[@dreamcastproject]

great video, thank you, it helped me make my buying decision

[@me9628]

thank for your review it would good too review also image definition during zoom in, just in case we need to check more details like car license tag at longer distances.

[@hicksvilleshick]

Well done sir! (sorry if this is a repeat but I think my comment didn't post earlier) This comparison helped me pick what will work for me. Like others have said, it looks like zosi has better picture, but reolink has better audio. I ended up going with the zosi 16 channel with 8 cams and a 4TB off the Amazon. The price difference between the zosi and a comparably spec'd reolink was too much to overlook for the sake of a better phone app. Again well done, this video was immensely helpful in my decision.

[@LifeHackster]

Thank you. I appreciate it.

[@AGhostInTheMachine]

Zosi has better video quality and night vision. Reolink has better audio which is something I've been waiting to improve in cameras in general. Still looking for a brand that's better in both categories, plus good software.

[@bwaaahsharkie5260]

Reolink 8 Channel NVR and two RLC-811A's currently on order! Very excited to see how they function. Will possibly be looking to add another camera with superior night vision in the future (Reolink NVR's are usually compatible with other manufacturers cameras).

[@mattlester7799]

Did you end up liking it? I’ve noticed that when viewing them on a tv in multi view the video quality goes way down to the point it’s like 720p

[@thomasvo2796]

@@mattlester7799 Hello. That is because in multi view mode, there are only show at 640x360 in resolution (sub stream). But all cameras are still recorded in full 4k 3840x2160. It's too much for the nvr to handle 8 cameras live view at 4k scale down for multi view. Hope that helps.

[@arunkumar-xc3ms]

How is the camera now?

[@festivaljapan]

Amazing Video. I'm your fan.

[@LifeHackster]

Thank you so much 😀

[@repairman2be250]

Thanks for the video. Can you on a 4K camera set the resolution to record in 2K? The Reolink system seems to fit my needs and is also available in Australia. In terms of camera I am thinking one of the RLC-800 series. Any recommendation? I cannot find the CX410.

[@martyb3783]

This is a great video. I really liked the incense plate testing. I have a question, do these video cameras/nvr require an internet account? In other words, can I access the NVR locally on my network when there is no internet connection? I hate having to login to an external website server in order to access anything in my house. Thanks again for taking the time to make this video!

[@deucesolo]

Hi friend and thanks for this informative video on Poe cameras. I'm looking to install just one 4k Poe camera and am wondering would I need to buy an 8ch NVR? What would be the better 2 or 4ch NVR? Or what do you think Sir? Thanks -

[@philippospetrou8458]

Hi...really enjoyed the video. Excellent presentation. I wanted to ask .....do you need to have a POE switch (just before the NVR) and a router is it necessary? (Or the system can work just by plug-in the POE wire to the camera and to the NVR??) THANKS

[@LifeHackster]

Both NVR systems have PoE ports on the back, so yes it can work as a stand alone and not relying in your network.

[@MasterHomebrew]

Maybe a couple of questions I have are about the hard drive specs. How large of a hard drive can these accept and how much data/time can a 4 terabyte drive last before recording over previous data? Thanks for the video.

[@nickfarrow7544]

Great content as always, whats your thoughts on swann's basic POE systems. Cheers from Australia

[@LifeHackster]

I haven't tested new POE systems from Swann. The one that I have before have a lot of false alarms even that it had person/facial recognition.

[@joechandler3493]

I’ve a Swann 4K Poe system. One word: Terrible

[@PMPerformance]

Are you using the DVR for the Zosi? Or are you linking these cameras to Blue Iris?

[@popsmancave4482]

Just discovered your channel whats your latest recommendation for systems

[@avaughs]

Can you use the Zosi POE camera with the Reolink NVR and/or the Reolink POE camera with the Zosi NVR?

[@davidmmuench]

Great video! Completely unrelated question: Do you think you'll be getting the Schlage Encode Plus to review soon? If they ever have it in stock anyway.

[@LifeHackster]

Not really. I have to check it out. Thanks.

[@PMPerformance]

I have the Schlage Encode. It’s a solid piece. I had a frustration that ended up being battery related, but their support although takes forever to get them on the phone is great

[@bradnewcomb1]

So there are few NVR manufactures out there that now that have "AI" such as ReoLink and Amcrest. I would love to see the best 4k system review with a focus on AI functions.

[@y2kmadd]

We need more doorbell sized cameras that can be mounted discreetly without and ugly external installation. Something that can be unstalled cleanly.

[@RJ_Cormac]

I have an addiction, I have over 20 different network home security cameras, started back in 2009 with Panasonic and D-Link. My previous cameras were still working fine, but Amazon Prime Day sale came, and I just upgraded to 4k cameras around the house. Hard to turn down the value of the Reolink cameras. Along with the RLC-1212A and TrackMix cameras I'm testing. There is a colony of network PoE cameras growing in my basement, I think they're holding elections for city council leader!

[@battletv777]

HAHHAHA................................. I'm same. 12 Eufy atm, just started on Reolink................ It's a bit weird, find Eufy 2c old model seems to have developed a interferrance bug. So switching that area to POE .

[@DanTheManIOM]

Can I ask you a question then, what do you recommend if I just want to locally record and see what is going on when I am not at the property ? I don't beleive I need to have it tied to my phone and have it chime and tell me, but I could be wrong. Don't really want to pay for wireless for a place I don't live at. thanks for any suggestions.

[@jasminesmith296]

So being that you have an addiction as u say, I need advice ASAP. My wireless zosi cameras and system just went out after just 3 years, this happens & I come to discover next that my warranty expired 3 months prior ( funny right ? ). I liked the zosi but now have different feelings. I am a single mother of 2 babies and we live sort of in a bad spot so im on my mission for new asap. I do not work so I need something that is no more than 200 bucks, preferably 150 but yeah. do you have any suggestions of something good and affordable I can look into?

[@allfacts19]

​@DanTheManIOM buy a system with an nvr where you can record it to. Go with a 1tb nvr.

[@ronm6585]

Thank you.

[@LifeHackster]

You're welcome!

[@mrx7720]

Good comparison as always but please test also the Annke NVR system and compare with Reolink

[@LifeHackster]

Annke has an outdated NVR interface and their better featured cameras are pricey.

[@McShmooopy]

Hi Life Hacker, I've purchased this NVR based on the spec you provided and the video. Do you have any idea how to get RTSP or ONVIF working on this? I've contacted ZOSI and they are not very helpful with getting it working

[@arc.handyman1905]

Do you know if Zosi cameras can run on Cat6 or higher? In general, did you find any interference issues running multiple unshielded ethernet cables together?

[@giaitri5118]

Hi . I’m looking for 4k poe security camera. I’m thinking about the Reolink and Zosi but don’t know which one is better. Would you reccomend me one?

[@hrobin.1986]

Have you tried doing a review on if the burglar has a flashlight and is pointing it at your camera because my cameras that I'm using now which isn't as up-to-date but when I did this test it failed miserably and it was a zosi model camera and also Owls Eye that I tested

[@kojam1]

I spend so much time watching your videos and one other guy whose videos are da bomb! NOBODY ELSE COMPARES! Think I'm ready to pull the trigger. But confused myself watching tons of vids from you 2. What's your take on this Reolink: RLK8-820D4-A?

[@ddash1983]

I bet you watch securitybros ?

[@kojam1]

@@ddash1983 never heard of that bud. The other is Lifehackster..

[@christinalove1309]

Did you update your reolink? You mentioned you were going to upgrade

[@effrem123]

Zosi the only problem I noticed was that the microphone on the video wasn't too loud compared to reolink

[@hydroaegis6658]

I much prefer the Zosi just because the night camera is better.

[@daveindallas8309]

I have a 12 camera Reolink system but would like to add additional POE PT cameras for best cost. Is the ZOSI camera compatible with a Reolink NVR?? If this is in your video, I missied it. Thanks in advance.

[@LifeHackster]

It is better to stay in the Reolink ecosystem if you have their NVR. They stated that their NVR will only work with their cameras.

[@JNTimperley]

Which hardwired POE+, NVR is less proprietary to other MFG cameras? I need to find a solution for 16 Cameras. or use other mfgrs flood light Dual lens / rotating 90 deg up down....180 deg rotate AI patrol tracking.

[@torana6531]

I’m looking for a 4K POE with 2/way audio and spotlights what is the best system to get.. I have a Swann 4K 887 camera system I want something of that quality with out the glitches of a Swann system…

[@GavinLim]

i want to set up 16 channel system. I want to get an all 4K system but am concerned about the disk space needed. In practice, do I need 24/7 on all cameras or is the person/vehicle detection sufficient accurate enough so I don't have to record 24/7?

[@LifeHackster]

This is more for Reolink because this is what I use and what I have been doing is I have at least 2 cameras in my front yard that records 24/7 and the rest during motion only. I set the rest to record all motion events and crank up the sensitivity so it will record any motion event... In the notifications, I set it to be notified with person events only. Another cool thing on the Reolink is that you can mix and match cameras including resolutions.. I have a mix of 5 MP and 8 MP cameras.

[@DJDuce5984]

Reolink better step their game up. Funny how they both sent you notifications at the same time. Almost like they are using the same UI. Zosi has a good camera i might buy one to put on network as a stand alone.

[@tomtillman]

do any of these cameras have pre-roll?

[@stupidusername38]

Lifehackster what model Reolink NVR did you run your test on as my 8 channel reolink NVR does not give me 2 way audio with the 812a camera

[@LifeHackster]

If you have a newer NVR, you might need an update. On their older NVRs, it is not supported. -> support.reolink.com/hc/en-us/articles/900000601006-Can-I-Use-Two-Way-Audio-on-NVR

[@johnmreale]

Would these camera systems work on an RV or truck?

[@Noypi]

Is the network compatible with new tmobile home internet?

[@GavinLim]

For the Reolink 812A, can you schedule when the spotlights turn on and off?

[@LifeHackster]

Yes, you can.

[@Platoface]

Unifi G4 Pro has by far the best audio of any camera. Yes, it’s pricey but picks up everything.

[@dbagdi1998]

It has worse video quality and is more expensive which is arguably a more important feature

[@teknerd]

Regarding the Reolink 8-port vs 16-port NVR, does the 16-port model have a faster processor to handle 16 4K cameras or are both NVR identical except for the built-in POE switch? Also, I think I heard you mentioned a cool-down period. Is that a thing with these NVR systems? or can they be configured for 24/7 recording with event marking?

[@LifeHackster]

I'm not sure about the processor but I'm assuming should be different and should handle more cameras. As to the cool down, that is more in notifications when I test it with wired or plug in cameras because they should always be recording when there is motion. Some cameras will only give you one notification and will not notify you anymore until a set elapsed time has passed. Both systems can be configured to record 24/7 and you can sort out the AI events.

[@shadow.banned]

Reolink needs Starlight on their normal wired PoE cameras.

[@LifeHackster]

I agree.

[@torana6531]

What’s star light?

[@shadow.banned]

@@torana6531 Advanced color* nightvision.

[@AmariBowsershorts]

Cute dog

[@BreakTime10101]

Have you done a review of any of the ones sold at Costco? Thanks AvertX Lorex Swann

[@LifeHackster]

I haven't. I did review the Lorex Fusion a while back.

[@matthewlblair]

How would the Lorex system you reviewed compared to this Reolink system?

[@stupidusername38]

I received the reolink rlc812a at the weekend and frankly I was disappointed. This camera was relaxing a 4MP reolink camera. What is disappointing about the 812a is the field of view, it's very narrow

[@LifeHackster]

Yes, it has a narrow FOV.

[@TheManueltavarez]

Between one of this or lorex wich one wi be better. In your opinion

[@PMPerformance]

My experience with Lorex has been terrible. Their support is god aweful. I’m sure these brands would be as well though

[@larissa7007]

What about Hiseeu?

[@naeemrahimi5315]

which one is with no subscription fees if non of them what camera system should I buy with no monthly fees please?

[@LifeHackster]

These 2 systems don't have monthly fees.

[@Vincent-nx2mc]

test HiKvision next please

[@LifeHackster]

We will see.

[@athannaelanderson3806]

I installed Hikvision as a Security Tech, they are cheap crappy cameras.

[@Vincent-nx2mc]

@@athannaelanderson3806 what do you recommend?

[@athannaelanderson3806]

@@Vincent-nx2mc Personally I make my own security cameras, I know not everyone can do that. If I had to purchase from a company Reolink is affordable and of decent build, I wouldn’t connect it to internet unless you know how to setup your own personal portal because safety is kind of a grey area there…

[@christinalove1309]

I thought the hikvision is banned from US and only the left overs are being sold

[@marky8659]

I got the wired zosi cameras and I’m having issues with it freezing and coming in and out of connection. Also one of them just completely went down.

[@LifeHackster]

Sorry to hear that... reliability is the only thing we have to watch out about this cheaper brand.

[@elmerlopez2736]

Check your Ethernet connection

[@vick6774]

Can someone make a video with high end security cameras.

[@LifeHackster]

Here you go -> kzbin.info/www/bejne/bqbIhoyflN2fo5Y $350 dollar just for the camera...you can get the whole 4 camera kit Zosi with this price.

[@lincoln_file23]

If I don't have internet service, can I still use these camera systems?

[@LifeHackster]

Yes..you will just not get notifications on your phone but you can get the recordings and view them if you have a monitor attached to the NVR.

[@jeremy-thomas7265]

Do you need to pay for the app or is it free?

[@LifeHackster]

Free app.

[@jeremy-thomas7265]

@@LifeHackster thanks

[@Rockaland2]

both do the job but how will it last long term? snow/rain freezing and hot weather? if i had to choose i take reolink

[@LifeHackster]

I'm not sure about the Zosi but the Reolink has been working without issues on mine.

[@davidthecardcollector]

Can I use either one with my existing cameras? I just want to replace the DVR box.

[@LifeHackster]

If you have a DVR, then No. Your cameras have BNC connections. NVR cameras have ethernet/Cat 5-6 connections.

[@jasminesmith296]

PLZ SOMEONE HELP IF YOU CAN. 😣 My wireless zosi cameras and system just went out after just 3 years, this happens & I come to discover next that my warranty expired 3 months prior ( funny right ? ). I liked zosi but now have different feelings. I am a single mother of 2 babies & we live sort of in a bad spot so im on my mission for new asap.. I do not work so I want something good around 150 PREFERABLY.. I spent 200 on the zosi that just went out though. Anyone have any suggestions of something good and affordable I can look into? if anyone sees my comment and can suggest anything to me that would be great. It’s been few days now and it sucks to not have security cameras but I don’t want to jump the gun and just get anything. It helps me feel secure with my babies to at least see things going on around me outside. :/ I do not have a vehicle also so with my driveway being vacant i am paranoid abt shady people… having cameras is absolutely needed.. i need someone’s help, i wish it was easier.

[@matthewhartley8756]

Zoe security cameras are good they're not bad they're a low budget security cameras and they are the best ZOSI

[@gerrymonds483]

Siit

[@zuhairhlayel]

👍💐🌷🌹💐👍

[@Kbk542]

I heard that ring came out with a dog collar

[@LifeHackster]

I have to check that out.

[@Kbk542]

@@LifeHackster never mind i just saw ring for pets and saw a blue collar but its just security cameras

[@mono1342]

Why do you keep testing the lowest of the low end POE cameras?

[@LifeHackster]

Why not? Is it not better to inform people of getting the best bang for your buck?

[@reggaeriderr]

Zosi voice wasn't that great

[@dan7163]

I just returned a reolink 8mp camera system. It was just a box of trash. 3 weeks trying to get quailty of any kind from it. Just frustration. No responce at all from reolink. No user manual or software manual. Finally got a download from amazon. Camers were flimsy horrible to position and felt like a strong wind would destroy them. Picture quailty was horrible. Very grainy no way to read a license plate or facial recognition. Im looking for good old fasion strong 4k camera s. Not using reolink ever again

[@LifeHackster]

I’m not sure about grainy..is the same quality as I have shown in my videos? How did you download the footage or you are just watching it from the app?

[@G59_SLUM]

$400 is not cheap

[@LifeHackster]

Compare it to other brands with same specs.

[@Wadley225]

I have a ZOSI system. It is a PIECE OF SHIT!!!!!

[@gerrymonds483]

Siit