I’m looking into setting up a DIY NVR system. I need about 6 cameras to start, with room for expansion, both inside and outside, plus doorbells. I want everything to be linked to a single app with no monthly fees. Cost isn’t a big concern… or should it be? Is it worth going high-end? Let me know what you think!
Ubiquiti networking gear + Blue Iris on a dedicated PC. Solid option.
Rory said:
Ubiquiti networking gear + Blue Iris on a dedicated PC. Solid option.
I’d suggest trying something like Reolink NVR/Cameras first to see what you really want from the system. If you need something more advanced, then Ubiquiti is a good option, though pricier. Setting up the NVR and PoE cameras is pretty straightforward. The hard part is laying the wires and configuring everything.
@Bailey
You might be right, but OP seems to be aiming for a high-end experience. I just listed what I consider the best for home use.
Rory said:
@Bailey
You might be right, but OP seems to be aiming for a high-end experience. I just listed what I consider the best for home use.
Reolink has some serious limitations when it comes to night vision. They started strong with their CX410 camera but haven’t followed through with better image sensors. Reolink is good for budget systems, but they still use smaller 1/2.8 image sensors, which struggle with night vision. For someone with no budget concerns, you should look into a Synology NAS with Surveillance Station software. It supports over 9,000 different cameras from various brands, including Reolink and Ubiquiti, but also better options like cameras with 1/1.8 or 1/1.2 sensors, which perform far better at night.
If cost isn’t an issue, you could go for professional NVR systems like those used in banks or businesses. They offer better cameras and more control, but they’re pricier and more complex to set up. For a solid home system, Reolink is a great option at a reasonable price. You could also consider setting up your own NAS system, but that’ll require more tech know-how.
@Phoenix
I work in IT at a financial institution, and we use Axis and Dahua. They offer a lot of configuration options and storage, but from an end user’s perspective, they’re not much better than a Reolink setup. Their apps are basic and not user-friendly. I’ve also seen some security issues with their NVRs during pen testing. At home, I use Reolink with a VPN, and it works great with minimal setup. It really depends on what you need for your 6-camera system.
There are business cameras that cost up to $5k or more, but even most businesses don’t spend that. Reolink offers great value, especially with their latest 16MP camera. Unless you’re trying to protect high-value trade secrets, I wouldn’t spend more than that.
What’s wrong with the Reolink NVR? I’m thinking of getting one.
Kenan said:
What’s wrong with the Reolink NVR? I’m thinking of getting one.
I’ve owned several Reolink NVRs, but I can’t recommend them as the best option anymore due to their broken ONVIF support. This issue causes certain video sources to break the network connection, and you’re forced to use a direct video connection instead.
@Drew
I exclusively use Reolink cameras and was planning on buying the 36-channel NVR from them. Should I reconsider?
Kenan said:
@Drew
I exclusively use Reolink cameras and was planning on buying the 36-channel NVR from them. Should I reconsider?
If you’re sticking with Reolink, you’ll probably be fine. Just be aware of potential issues. I’m frustrated because I’m not sure what else they might mess up in the future.
Kenan said:
What’s wrong with the Reolink NVR? I’m thinking of getting one.
Reolink is a great home system, but the OP asked for the best system without worrying about cost. There are higher-end options with better cameras if you have a larger budget. You might want to check out some reviews on YouTube for an idea of what Reolink offers.
@Phoenix
I’m almost finished with my house and have all Reolink cameras. I’m thinking of getting the 36-channel NVR. Should I switch to something else?
Kenan said:
@Phoenix
I’m almost finished with my house and have all Reolink cameras. I’m thinking of getting the 36-channel NVR. Should I switch to something else?
I have the 36-channel NVR, and it’s been good. Just make sure to get your own PoE switch and hard drives. You’ll also need a mouse and monitor to set it up, though some people don’t keep the monitor plugged in afterward.
@Phoenix
Thanks, appreciate it!
I use Reolink, but I’d recommend watching this video first to see if Reolink meets your needs: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=awQgyKJFYZo
Reolink works well for me, but their night vision isn’t great. I added floodlights to help with the view at night. If you’re in this price range, Reolink is one of the top 3 brands. I tried Dahua before but had too many quality issues. Three out of the five cameras I bought were defective in less than a year, so I switched to Reolink.
@Blake
How does the picture quality compare between Dahua and Reolink?