Reolink Argus PT Review - Wireless Battery Powered Pan and Tilt WiFi Camera

[@mitchplourd5092]

I'm surprised these companies don't offer a speaker jack or Bluetooth connection for better external speakers. You always do the exact same testing routine for all the products you test, bravo! Thanks for all your effort bringing this information forward.

[@Seekingtruth-mx3ur]

Probably will make the camera more expensive

[@jazzcat9363]

FINALLY!!! Been waiting forever forever for Reolink to release this and for you to get one to test out for us. As always, GREAT review! Might hold off on this one until Cyber Monday or any other holiday deals. I do wish we could have motion detection zones on these battery powered cameras. I understand why they don't, but for those of us who hook up to a solar panel, we don't have to worry about the battery drain. I love my Argus 2, so I'm sure I'll love this one once I get my hands on one. The Argus 2 has held up really well in this Texas heat, though it is in a shady area. Budget is just a little tight with me returning to school (why does higher education have to be so damn expensive? lol) but I'll definitely get the PT before the end of the year.

[@LifeHackster]

They have the usual good video quality day and night like all other Reolink cameras.

[@sanguinemis8052]

OK

[@slmbrewing]

You are totally correct that they should add preset positions. No need for that many, probably 3 would do for most homeowners (which is who is buying this, not professional security). Thanks for the advice for adding the MR. Beams spotlight, will have to look at that.

[@longbowdt]

Your product testing seems to cover a lot of bases. Much appreciated.

[@LifeHackster]

Thank you.

[@JulieGeigle]

This video was awesome, very helpful, but my Argus PT came cracked. We didn't realize it until we were on the ladder to install it. Also since they're located in Honk Kong there is zero phone support unless you have international calling. I sent in the refund request and we shall see how that's handled.

[@qtran101]

Finally! So glad someone is doing a review. I was planning on getting this for a gate camera but no onvif

[@LifeHackster]

Yes no Onvif..

[@adammackay7160]

I have bought two of these and have been using them for a week and am most impressed - especially considering the low cost and easy installation.

[@kireencharles1555]

Hi . Does it work with power outage? Or does have continuous recording ?

[@adammackay7160]

@@kireencharles1555 it records onto an SD card in the camera. So it needs a battery which I keep charged up with solar panels. So an outage has no effect but if someone steals the camera before you download the video to your phone, it's gone.

[@kireencharles1555]

Thanks

[@kayberry6292]

Another excellent and objective review. If this could do 25fps, I might get one. Pity the zoom is digital though. I guess there will always be compromises for a totally wire-free camera but I give full marks to Reolink for championing this technology. There are plenty of places you can't lay cable to.

[@llewellynpatrick160]

A very comprehensive range of tests covering all sorts of real-life situations - excellent work. The Argus PT looks promising for my purposes but I think I'll check your other reviews now...

[@SiggyTetteh]

I ordered the Reolink Argo and got it in yesterday. Loving it thus far.

[@trenthuntoon3840]

How much

[@Townie9225]

Glad you were able to post a review about this camera I’ve been looking at purchasing this camera now for a this while now. The only thing I’m not really a fan of is the mount but like you said you could always purchase another mount on amazon and that’s probably what I’ll do. Great review as always extremely helpful 👍🏼

[@LifeHackster]

Thank you.

[@armystrongmom]

4 in a row were bad! Three of them had defective sd card slots! Made in China!

[@armystrongmom]

Abject junk!

[@rodrobinson6111]

Very informative video. I like the clarity of the video at night, but it seems u need a lot of light. Thanks for another descriptive video.

[@LifeHackster]

Not really.. the light that I used is only 200 lumens.. thanks.

[@a1credit860]

Thanks for the great video! I just brought the Arlo Ultra had it for about 3 weeks. This one I really like some features the main thing this one is missing is Motion trackering but it does rotate manually.

[@samuelugh5729]

I know. If it had that it would be great and night time color vision. motion tracking would be great.

[@Alexandros356bc]

great review, thanks. Another drawback of this model is that it does not send any video to emails. The only options for email alerts are text and picture.

[@aramisaviation]

Great review with everything covered in just the right amount of detail!

[@darrenburris7369]

I look forward to hearing your reviews!

[@LifeHackster]

Thanks.

[@jmew79]

You are the bomb with these cams man! My go to for all cctv related questions and queries. Comprehensive reviews mate A*

[@i.g.7098]

Excellent excellent EXCELLENT video. Very thorough. Might go to another reolink with presets and motion tracking.

[@evehsv5556]

Excellent tutorial we just brought three of these cameras your video was very helpful thanks very much. 😊

[@MiguelCatalaoMusic]

Hi, you didn't show Zoom, and it would be great if you could test the Solar panel. Other than that, great review.

[@martinwinfield2935]

Thanks for a very in depth review, all parts covered very well.

[@OuiOuiConcept]

Can you please tell me what is your top 3 battery wireless outdoor cameras? I want to buy one for my house but I want to take the best decision. Thank you in advance

[@gregb2144]

Since your 2019 review Reolink PTZ has a new more stable mounting bracket. Also you can function without internet / local Lan like a stand a lone NVR .

[@superlight47]

on windy days with that plastic mount, it will shake a lot, and may even give false notifications.

[@LifeHackster]

True as shown in my video clarity tests..the footage was shaking.. with a generic metal security mount, it is way better.

[@GrandPines323]

@@LifeHackster Can you provide a link to this better mount?

[@GrandPines323]

@@LifeHackster I found it in another comment. Thank you.

[@evehsv5556]

GrandPines323 Where is the link for the brackets please?

[@rafaelrivas4965]

Great, I’ll use metal braces to control the shaking on windy days.

[@macgyver24]

I have the c2 one. It works really nice. Clear image. Really happy about the camera. I was looking for the motion zones. This camera didn't have those lol. 😅

[@LifeHackster]

Nope. Most battery powered cameras don’t have motion zones but they are starting to though like the Blink cameras and Arlos.

[@steves5933]

Hi LifeHackster, I had bought this camera a few days ago, and I must agree with all your test results. Flimsy bracket, sound not loud enough and microphone needs to be recording louder too. Video quality is for my needs excellent. As for the missing presets, I feel the same way as you do. However, I think it is a good product for the money. And still no news as to when we get the cloud services over here in the UK. I believe it is now well overdue, but there is no news as yet. I was surprised at your solution for the bracket. I never thought of that. Thank you for another excellent video.

[@LifeHackster]

Thank you.

[@dennismoore3678]

Just a suggestion, not sure if feasible, but would like to see a clarity test with the license plate at night with night vision on for your tests.

[@LifeHackster]

Good idea.. I’ll try it. Thanks.

[@rafaelrivas4965]

Excellent review and very informative, it’s the system that I need for my home. Thanks

[@sylence.littleone]

Thankyou, this wi come in handy in foaling season

[@glen8449]

Very good review and comments. Thank you.

[@LifeHackster]

Thank you.

[@morepetsandus3855]

Enjoyed your review of this security camera but what is the name of the metal mount you talk about and where to find?

[@Seekingtruth-mx3ur]

I got the Noorio cameras but thinking of checking out Reolink.

[@Owen-tu7lj]

Great review lifehackster

[@aalani]

Pretty nice and informative video, I also like your Osmo Pocket camera setup!

[@LifeHackster]

Awesome, thank you!

[@sumoha]

Did Reolink work on the PT bookmark complaint you raised since the video?

[@SmartHomeHASHTAGS]

As of January 15th Reolink has no plans of including presets (Patrol Mode) to these cameras. I asked on their Facebook page. This and motion tracking is the only thing stopping me from buying Reolink.

[@TheGwarGaru]

Thank you!

[@typxxilps]

Preset Position missing is a nightmare - not a question for the engineers. The complete set of software functions is already available for year since the 423 W introduction.

[@bryan1057]

Very good video, well explained and tested.

[@LifeHackster]

Thank You.

[@davidbell7094]

Great review thanks I like these style Of cameras I think the voice loudness could be better..but in the dead of night i think it would be heard. Do you recommend these styles of cameras?.I like the Ezviz C3x would you recommend it for a 30ft length of garden or what camera would you recommend overall for this size of garden.Thankyou 👍💯

[@MsNitro187]

i have a reolink RLC-410w i am not very happy with motion detection is bad it is constantly on and off. i plan to buy Hikvision DS-2CD2041G1-IDW1

[@LifeHackster]

Yes, they are pixel based detection and will have a lot of false motion alerts.

[@keywestalert6329]

Was about to buy it looked at this review. Hearing you say that the on/off button is on the camera and knowing the fact that you don't need a ladder to where I need my camera I am good.

[@marshallbaires]

Great review

[@willzzz7038]

this maybe a dumb question but with the antenna is a cause for concern for attracting lightning?

[@cgc6761]

Battery life? Am I supposed to discard the camera when battery reaches end-of-life?

[@eosjoe565]

Has anyone popped to cover to see what battery is used? Even though they say it is not user replaceable, it might be easy to change. I have some solar motion lights that are screwed together and say "battery not replaceable" but if you remove the screws you find a standard AA NiMH battery inside. :-)

[@LifeHackster]

Yes.. and hopefully if will last 4-5 years.

[@MrKentaroMotoPI]

According to Reolink, the PT uses two 18650 3250mAh lithium ion batteries. They didn't say whether it uses the protected or unprotected version. I'm guessing unprotected since the camera circuitry should be able to manage the charging. Need to peek inside the camera. Mine is having trouble charging after a year of heavy use (20 min per day). It's been hot here in Hollywood 🎥. The battery charging will only run when it cools down at night. Another thing that Reolink doesn't discuss in the manual is that you need at least a 2 amp USB power supply to keep up with the camera.

[@linedancer111]

So glad I found your, video, the instruction are not in the least helpful! Still can’t get it on my iPad,

[@LifeHackster]

Thank you.

[@kireencharles1555]

Love the focus and pertinent review. Great job. Does it work away from wifi as it has the sd card? As well what about in power outage? Can a 256 sd card work ?

[@Robert-zm5rx]

I couldn't understand what you said about the metal camera mount. Could you tell me which one we need for this camera? Thanks!

[@ellisnishimoto5752]

I am thinking of buying security cameras but will not buy Reolink cameras because of the built-in battery feature { batteries should be replaceable }. I hope they resolve this before I buy another brand security system.

[@Townie9225]

@Ellis Nishimoto, you could always buy the Argus pro or Argus 2 they have removable battery’s and when the the new spotlight camera from Reolink comes out I believe it’s going to use the same type of removable battery it’s said to have starlight night vision and a spotlight. Also you could just buy the Argus Eco or PT and hook up a solar panel to it and with that if placed in an optimal place such as you’re roof or a side of you’re house that gets 2 to 4 hours of sunlight that’ll be enough to power it.

[@MercedesMechanic]

Have you reviewed the Argus PT Ultra with solar panel?

[@vincentcampbell69]

Careful resetting this thing. Button got jammed on me and I was not forceful at all. There's no other way of resetting this thing too. Horrible design flaw if you ask me. One small button.

[@phlfly10]

what is your opinion for better one than this ?

[@Yankeerex]

Doesn't look like a long term promising Security Camera. More like for viewing only. Great video tough 🖖

[@LifeHackster]

Thanks...

what is the maximum range between the camera and the router to which it is connected?

[@anthonyval6504]

Hey life big fan of yours , which reolink ptz cam is the best regardless or wire or wireless ?

[@LifeHackster]

I just reviewed the E1 Outdoor, not perfect but it is better than the Argus PT.

[@IMiss_The90s]

What's the best outdoor solar camera you have tested to date? I need 4. Thanks!

[@ThePenguin-rn1lo]

Another great review, thank you.

[@LifeHackster]

You are welcome.

[@Alambe727]

Nice video but how do you get the camera to just rotate and record by itself automatically we set ours up and it’s not panning from left to right

[@norbsonen2389]

You got the best review video's out there. But I'm in need of help... I have a Netgear Night Hawk 5 Router and I can't get this camera to hook up. Can you tell me what I can do to fix it, or should I just send it back.

[@CCscott]

Another professional video! 👍🏼 Any idea if camo skins are available for this camera?

[@LifeHackster]

Not that I know of. Thank you.

[@alexamiranda336]

Hello! Great view i wanted to ask what other solar powered camera out there you recommend to be mounted on a tree to be able to read license plates at night due to some suspicious activities in the neighborhood

[@JamesTechJackin]

Great content. Can you share one of the mounts that you recommend please?

[@LifeHackster]

This is what I used... amzn.to/2ZS0BGV

[@GrandPines323]

@@LifeHackster thank you

[@stylezworld8599]

Hi there. I am wondering why this cam can't give 360 degree motion tracking itself. I thought that feature included that's why i bought this Reolink battery powered wireless cam. I mean to say camera itself can detect motion not only that position we set up but also it moves to max 355 or 360 degree angle and capture images or vidos if approaches within 360/355 degree range. Please help if there any other camera that have auto tracking 355/360 degree tracking itself?

[@charlesbloomer659]

Very nice job very through...I wish you lived next door!

[@ORIGIN-qy1ve]

Which would you prefer the ARGUS 2 or the SOLIOM S600 ?

[@SlexMusic]

based on the picture on the Reolink website, it looks like they upgraded the mount

[@غلاوجودك]

thank u for this review how much is the maximum storage space? can i put 265G ! thx bro

[@Semaj.18272]

Which is the best wilted reolink ? There is so many don’t know which to choose

[@markh8921]

This cam is way to much...I’ll stick with the Yi 1080p dome cams...FYI: I have had 6 Yi 1080p dome cams installed outside for over 2yrs now here in Central Texas and they still work great and have all the feature that the reolink does not have and only cost $40 to $50...Plus the Yi PC program now allows you liveview 9 cams at one time..😄😄👍👍

[@LifeHackster]

A bit pricey but I think it is because it is battery powered...I haven’t seen a battery powered WiFi camera that is less than 50 dollars..and yes I remember you and you have the Yi cameras outside...what I really like about the Yi cameras is how fast they open up from the app.

[@markh8921]

LifeHackster 👍👍

[@giovanniturco6428]

Hi another fantastic video again funny enough I was looking at this camera yesterday on Reolink website it looks a good camera I am just waiting for the new out door camera wired version to come out I think they are going to call it SPOTCAM and the new design on the camera is fantastic plus did you ever get your Reolink camera to work on the Alexa sorry for being a pain about it

[@LifeHackster]

Thank you.. also my Reolink now works with Alexa..

[@giovanniturco6428]

LifeHackster hi thanks for reply letting me know about the Reolink I am still having trouble with my cameras not working with Alexa all my cameras are on the Alexa App tried it again just now still say Camera isn’t responding Reolink are making excuses all the time saying they are testing the cameras to work with Alexa and the

[@viktorshmelev1647]

Do they work through my existing Blink controller?

[@omarminotti]

Hi, which camera do you recommend between this and EZVIZ BC1C with solar panel too?

[@MRBSOK1]

I have 2 Argus and this Pt camera. The PT has a terrible WiFi range compared to the pro. I only get about 25 feet with antenna installed, on a full charge. I cannot use it without changing out my wireless router. It did not work with my WiFi extenders.

[@LifeHackster]

Sorry to hear that..I haven’t really checked the WiFi range and it does work to where I usually place my outdoor cameras.

[@pbleek3489]

I have a Reolink PoE NVR system. Can this battery-powered one be added to it?

[@u50214]

Looking at the app this looks very similar to the Ezviz Studio app and the CTQ6C PT camera. That camera uses HikVision firmware. Are Reolink cameras another brand of HikVision? And can the camera interface with third party software for viewing and controlling the camera? The Ezviz cameras appear to be crippled to only be able to use their own proprietary apps.

[@LifeHackster]

Reolink is another brand but they might share the same features and layout as the hikvision.

[@davidh.1667]

Is there a zoom in/out feature on this camera ?

[@LifeHackster]

Digital zoom.

[@andrewlyons8197]

Could you provide a link to purchase the more secure metal mount?

[@LifeHackster]

amzn.to/39zbJP6

[@andrewlyons8197]

LifeHackster thanks. Does changing the bracket effect the pan and tilt motion at all?

[@gracefullovely2076]

Is this a good camera for continuous traffic? it will be in direct sunlight with the solar panel. Will it work on a 3g network?

[@allenhammer5988]

If the camera does not track motion then it only works for what it is pointed to that does not notice motion 355 degrees?

[@MonteHa]

Je to šít !

[@slappymcphee]

Does it look like the housing could be painted? I fully understand that these companies make them white or black for reasons, but I for example having an awning this could hide under and capture great footage so wouldn't want the camera to stick out like a sore thumb from a curb appeal perspective.

[@Townie9225]

@Slappy McPhee, I’d say yes since it’s made out of a plastic housing unlike the Reolink eco which is made out of a aluminum housing.

[@LifeHackster]

Yes. You should be able to.

[@samuelfelix124]

Does the solar panel have to be directly hitting the sun to charge the battery or just daylight will do it

[@aloecoco9291]

The battery charges faster in full sun but can get some charge on cloudy days. Best to have the sola panel facing the sun light.The battery goes flat if used in Live View or Playback for prolonged time.

[@cooljz82]

Does Reolink have a motion tracking camera?

[@mauricioriveroi]

If installed for the front of the house it’s very easy to still

[@jackarentphotography9822]

Can you please make a video on how to connect a IP Reolink camera (Like the 420 camera) to Alexa? I cant get mine to work and Reolink isn’t getting me to fast enough. I am having difficulty upgrading firmware and supplying power to the camera, I was hoping I could remove the camera from the NVR but still use POE.

[@LifeHackster]

I’ll check it out.. I’m not sure if Reolink NVR cameras can connect to echo or google home..

[@Meowjuana_420]

is there an option to make it record constantly?

[@sep2x_7]

Hi! Just a question. Does your Argus PT records and stores footage at a limited storage capacity? We noticed that ours only saves and stores recordings up to 7.5 GB even though we have a 30 GB storage capacity micro SD card. It then overwrites the oldest footage to record new recordings. It only stores about up to 2 weeks old of footage in that process.

[@markchambers8641]

Anything small and compact like the wyze cam but has better night vision through glass??

[@LifeHackster]

I think Wyze has pretty video quality..day and night

[@markchambers8641]

LifeHackster My experience with the wyze through glass is very dark. The YI Home camera through glass is way better, and that’s the 1st gen yi home camera. I just ordered the yi home 3 to see if they have improved overall.

[@marywrong7041]

It is unable to connect to fast 5 Ghz , but only 2.4 Ghz. Maybe there will be a lesser delay ?

[@robertdiaz4962]

Does the camera rewind other than the frame by frame?

[@josehidalgoitza9612]

very good

[@rogerperaza3667]

Hi. Do you have any video or recommendation for a wifi and solar power camera with blocking of some areas in the field of view or motion tracking?

[@patriciaparker1896]

Have your or will you review the eufy cam with face recognition

[@LifeHackster]

Not sure yet. We will see.

[@alfredrickellibeaman7613]

Hey Lifehacker would you recommend this camera for inside use. And how long do the battery last

[@joelpeterson]

I see a setting to turn off the IR sensors but does that also turn off the light sensor? I don't want the light to come on at all.

[@francescodipo2005]

would you recommend more Reolink Argus Pt or RLC 511w to monitor the exterior of a home. thank you

[@LifeHackster]

I recommend PoE NVR system as compared to WiFi cameras if you can only have one choice.

[@francescodipo2005]

I have to rely on Wi-Fi cameras by force majeure

[@eishi.kajita]

Is the motor for pan and tilt noisy? In a quiet room, can you hear it if you are near the camera? Also, how tall is it (without bracket) compared to Argus 2?

[@newbie101]

Will this be safe to install outside with the rain with no cover? thanks

[@LifeHackster]

Yes, it is... IP65 rated.

[@outbackphotoart]

very imformative thanks

[@LifeHackster]

Thank you.

[@sallywallnuts8471]

How much longer for the reolink vs Swann 4K shootout video

[@LifeHackster]

I’m doing testing as I write this comment.;)

[@sallywallnuts8471]

LifeHackster that’s great, I have been looking to buy a new system and have been waiting on you review. You always do great reviews. Thanks