Ring and Reolink sure take the cake when it comes to home security tech! They're kinda like wizards with their cool security cameras. These cameras are a perfect fit for anyone needing to beef up security at home or at work. The customization options they offer mean you can tailor these gadgets to suit your exact needs. From nifty models that blend in like chameleons to those with needed features, these companies have got it all figured out. With the rise in break-ins and burglaries, it’s no wonder they’re at the top of their game. Planning to level up your home's safety? Stick around to discover how these tech geniuses can help!
With distinct product offerings they have notable differences worth discussing that will hopefully help you pick the right choice for your needs.
To provide you with the essentials on their camera lineup, I reviewed a total of 43 security cameras, including 11 from Ring and 32 from Reolink in this head-to-head analysis. At the end of the article, you can find a detailed list of the product codes that I analyzed. Let’s get started!
The Winners
Best for Simple Security
Best for Cost-Effective Security
Best for Simple Security: Ring
If you are looking for a hassle-free DIY security solution, Ring is my winner.
With its user-friendly setup process and a range of convenient features, like the integrated alarm, Ring provides an added layer of security by allowing users to sound an alarm remotely to deter potential intruders.
The tight integration with the Amazon Alexa ecosystem enhances convenience by enabling users to control their Ring cameras and receive alerts through simple voice commands or via a FireTV, further simplifying the monitoring and management of their security system.
Best for Cost-Effective Security: Reolink
If you are looking for value for money and reliability, Reolink is my winner.
Reolink offers budget-friendly options, making it accessible to users with varying budgets and a 2-year warranty on most of its products, providing peace of mind and ensuring long-term support for customers.
Despite its affordability, Reolink doesn't compromise on features and quality. It can integrate into various smart ecosystems, allowing users to expand their security system and enjoy seamless compatibility with other smart devices.
Reolink cameras also boast decent night vision capabilities, ensuring clear monitoring and recording in low-light conditions and clearer resolutions and motorized lenses, providing users with the ability to adjust the viewing angle for optimal coverage.
Winners per Category
| Category | Winner |
| Wired vs Wireless | Draw |
| Storage and Interoperability | Reolink |
| Audio | Ring |
| Night Vision Capabilities | Reolink |
| Video Specs | Reolink |
| Smart Monitoring | Ring |
| Build Quality | Reolink |
| Camera & Lens | Reolink |
| Pan, Tilt, and Zoom Capabilities | Reolink |
Overview
Ring
Founded in 2013, the company started with the development of the Ring Video Doorbell, which allowed homeowners to see and talk to visitors at their front door from anywhere using a smartphone.
Today, Ring offers various camera types such as video doorbells, floodlights, spotlights, and bullet cameras. Some notable models include the high-end Video Doorbell Elite, the mid-range Floodlight Cam Wired Pro, and the Video Doorbell 4 which is wireless and battery-powered.
While Amazon acquired Ring in 2018, it continues to operate as an independent brand with its own line of products and services.
Reolink
As a brand of security cameras founded in 2009 by a group of tech enthusiasts in Hong Kong, Reolink initially focused on developing and manufacturing IP cameras for home and business use, but it has since expanded its product line to provide a wider variety of camera types such as PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom), PT (pan-tilt), turret, bullet, spotlight, dome, and even a multi-sensor panoramic camera called Duo 4G.
Some noteworthy models include the high-end RLC-823A 16X PTZ camera, the budget-friendly Argus Eco bullet camera, and the mid-range Go PT Plus pan-tilt camera.
Cloud Subscription Features
Ring has paid subscription plans, such as Ring Protect, which offer cloud storage for video recordings, advanced motion detection settings, and extended warranties on Ring devices. Reolink has a cloud storage offering however it also has a host of other storage options, if you don't want a monthly fee.
Price Segments
When it comes to price, Ring, and Reolink are quite different. You tend to get more bang for your buck with Reolink, in terms of camera specs and features. For the most up-to-date pricing, check out the packages above.
Warranty
Another point of distinction between the two brands is the standard warranty provided. Ring has a 1-year warranty on all the products included in this research, whereas Reolink provides a 2-year warranty on all models.
This extended coverage on Reolink cameras may be appealing to customers who require long-term product support and protection.
Wired vs Wireless
When examining power and data options, I took a look at Ring and Reolink’s power connection options and data transmission features.
Winner: Draw
Both Ring and Reolink offer various power options including battery and solar alternatives, and in terms of data, both brands transmit data through 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi.
Power Options
When it comes to power options, both brands offer cameras with DC Power and AC Power, as evident in models like the Ring Pro 2 and the E1 Zoom.
Additionally, several Reolink cameras like the Argus Eco, and Ring cameras, such as the Video Doorbell 4, offer battery or solar panel alternatives, providing flexibility in installation and energy consumption.
Notably, Ring's Video Doorbell Elite and a few Reolink models, including the RLC-823A 16X, support Power over Ethernet (PoE), which allows a single cable to supply both power and data connection.
Data Transmission Options
Wi-Fi
In terms of connectivity, both Ring and Reolink cameras generally support 2.4GHz WiFi, with some models like the Ring Video Doorbell 4 and E1 Zoom also providing 5GHz WiFi connectivity. This dual-band WiFi capability can help deliver faster and more stable connections compared to single-band options.
Power over Ethernet (PoE)
PoE is another data transmission method found in certain Ring and Reolink models, such as the RLC-823A 16X. Reolink takes it further with some models like the Go Plus offering 4G LTE connectivity for remote location installations where WiFi may not be available.
Storage & Interoperability
Here, I examined the storage capabilities of both brands and support for different existing smart ecosystems and security applications.
Winner: Reolink
Reolink offers various storage options, including onboard storage of up to 256 GB without having to pay monthly fees for cloud storage, like Ring. Additionally, it is easier for Reolink to function cohesively with other existing components of a security system.
Storage Options
When it comes to storage options, Ring exclusively offers cloud storage for their security cameras, such as the Pro 2, Video Doorbell 4, Indoor Cam, and Floodlight Cam Wired Pro.
This means that you'll need to subscribe to a monthly service plan to access your recorded videos.
On the other hand, Reolink provides diverse storage options, including microSD, NVR, FTP, and cloud storage.
Almost all Reolink models, such as the E1 Zoom and RLC-823A 16X, offer a local storage option, which means you can save recorded videos without relying entirely on an internet connection or a subscription.
In terms of camera onboard storage capacity, Reolink generally offers more generous storage options. Many of their models support up to 256 GB of storage, such as the RLC-830A, while others offer 128 GB, like the Argus 3 Pro Solar.
Interoperability
A majority of Reolink products included in this research have a broader range of support for standards like ONVIF, RTSP, and P2P. This makes it easier for Reolink cameras to work with existing home security setups and third-party software.
For example, the Reolink RLC-523WA supports RTSP and P2P, while RLC-820A supports Synology, RTSP, and P2P.
In contrast, Ring models have limited interoperability options which may potentially limit integration with other security products or systems.
Audio
When examining the audio features of these brands, I specifically looked at microphones, speakers, and alarms.
Winner: Ring
While both brands offer integrated microphones and speakers for ease of communication, Ring stands out with its alarm and loudness, which can deter potential intruders, alert the occupants of a property, and even activate an emergency response.
Integrated Microphone and Speakers
A key feature common among the cameras of both brands is the presence of integrated microphones and speakers. This enables the cameras to capture audio, allowing for two-way communication.
Integrated Alarm
The presence of an integrated alarm differentiates the two brands. Most of the Ring models included in this research offer an integrated alarm, including the Pro 2, Video Doorbell, Indoor Cam, Floodlight Cam Wired Pro, and Spotlight Cam Plus Battery.
In contrast, Reolink offers alarms in fewer models like the E1 Zoom, RLC-830A, Argus Eco, and Argus 2E.
Siren Loudness
Siren loudness can play a crucial role in deterring potential intruders. Some Ring cameras, like the Floodlight Cam Wired Pro and Spotlight Cam Plus Wired, feature a siren loudness of 110 dB.
Night Vision Capabilities
Here, I scrutinized Ring and Reolink’s functionality on night vision, infrared distance, and spotlights.
Winner: Reolink
Reolink’s infrared and full-color night vision technology and its infrared distance specification allow clearer images even in complete darkness, which is ideal for securing the perimeters of the property.
Night Vision
Both Ring and Reolink security cameras offer night vision functionality. Ring cameras typically use infrared technology, whereas Reolink offers both infrared technology and full-color night vision with most of its models such as the Lumus and Argus 3 Pro.
Full-color night vision is generally achieved via a built-in spotlight or a low-light sensor. This feature provides clearer and more detailed color images in poorly lit conditions, which can be beneficial for identifying people or objects in the dark.
Infrared Distance
The infrared distance specification indicates how far the camera's illuminators can effectively illuminate the area in front of the camera. The longer the infrared distance of a camera, the more it is capable of providing clearer and more detailed images at greater distances in complete darkness.
In this head-to-head, Reolink cameras' infrared distance ranges from 33 – 100 meters.
For example, the E1 Zoom has an infrared distance of up to 40 meters, while the RLC-823A 16X model boasts an impressive distance of 262 meters for pitch-black environments.
Spotlight
Another noteworthy feature is the presence of spotlights in some security cameras. Several Reolink models, like the RLC-830A, RLC-1224A, and RLC-833A, come with powerful spotlights that have lumens ranging from 400 to 945. Similarly, Ring also offers spotlight-equipped models like the Floodlight Cam Wired Pro, which has an output of 2000 lumens.
Video Specs
When examining the video features of both brands, I specifically focused on functions such as continuous and motion-activated recording, frame rates, video format, wide dynamic range, and the number of video streams allowed.
Winner: Reolink
Reolink has a range of cameras that support both continuous recording and motion-activated recording.
Continuous vs Motion-activated Recording
With the exception of the Video Doorbell Elite, all other Ring cameras included in this research have motion-activated recording where the camera only starts recording when motion or activity is detected within its surveillance area.
On the other hand, many of Reolink’s cameras including the RLC-511WA, RLC-410W, E1 Pro, RLC-523WA, RLC-542WA, and RLC-511W boast continuous recording capabilities.
Hence, if you prefer uninterrupted footage, I’d recommend Reolink. But if you are after capturing video footage of detected events, Ring is a good choice.
Maximum Supported Frame Rate and Video Coding Format
Reolink cameras offer a range of frame rates, with some models supporting up to 30 frames per second like the RLC-511WA, RLC-410W, and RLC-520A.
In terms of video coding format, most Reolink cameras use H.264 or H.265 compression, which can provide high-quality video while using less storage and bandwidth.
Number of Video Streams
Reolink cameras offer one or two simultaneous video streams, providing flexibility when monitoring live feeds and reviewing recorded footage.
Smart Monitoring
Here, I focused on the cameras’ smart integration capabilities, configurable motion zones, sensitivity, motion alerts, and smart motion detection.
Winner: Ring
While Reolink integrates with Google’s ecosystem and Ring integrates with Amazon’s; Ring integration is very tight and works really well.
Smart integration
In terms of smart integrations, both brands have models that are compatible with popular voice assistants.
Ring cameras like the Video Doorbell Elite, Floodlight Cam Wired Pro, and Spotlight Cam Plus Battery are primarily compatible with Alexa, Echo Show, and Fire TV, making them an ideal choice for Amazon-based smart home ecosystems.
On the other hand, Reolink cameras offer a wider range of compatibility with Google Assistant, Chromecast, Google Nest Hub, and even some models supporting Alexa and Echo Show such as the Argus 3, Argus Pro, and Argus 2. This makes Reolink a versatile option for people using Google Home or a mixed ecosystem of smart devices.
Configurable Motion Zones and Sensitivity
When looking at configurable motion zones and sensitivity, both Ring and Reolink offer these features in most of their camera models. This allows users to customize the areas and level of motion sensitivity they want to receive alerts for, minimizing false alarms.
Motion Alerts
Both brands provide push notifications as the primary alert method. However, many of the Reolink models also offer email alerts as an additional way to receive notifications when motion is detected. This can be useful for users who want multiple channels of communication for their security alerts.
Smart Motion Detection
All Ring models analyzed in my research offer person detection, some also include object detection. Reolink cameras boast a larger range of detection capabilities including person, vehicle, and animal detection in many models. This can be advantageous for users who want to monitor specific types of motion events and further tailor their notifications.
Build Quality
When examining the device build of both brands, I specifically looked at their weather resistance ratings, materials, temperature ranges, humidity levels, camera dimensions, and functionality.
Winner: Reolink
Reolink cameras have higher IP ratings, sturdier materials, a broader temperature operating range, and higher humidity levels.
Weather Resistance
Ring security cameras are generally labeled as “weather-resistant,” while Reolink devices have specific Ingress Protection (IP) ratings to indicate durability, such as IP66 or IP65.
The higher the IP rating, the more resistant a camera is to dust and water. This suggests that Reolink cameras may generally be more suitable for outdoor use.
Build Materials
Some Reolink models are built with sturdy metal aluminum cases like the RLC-511WA, and RLC-820A, which may provide better durability.
On the other hand, Ring models are generally made of plastic while their video doorbells are a combination of plastic and metal materials.
Operating temperature range
Most Ring cameras have an operating temperature range of -5°F to 120°F or 122°F, while Reolink cameras typically have a broader range, starting at 14°F and going up to 131°F.
This means that Reolink cameras might be more suitable for areas with extreme temperatures.
Camera Dimensions
Ring offers compact options, such as the Ring Pro 2 at 4.49 in. x 1.9 in. x .87 in., and the Video Doorbell 3, measuring 5.1 in. x 2.4 in x 1.1 in. Reolink also provides compact cameras, such as the Go PT Plus with dimensions of 98 x 112mm / 3.7 x 4.4 in and the Argus 2E at 96 x 61 x 58mm.
Depending on your installation needs, both brands offer models with various sizes that can fit different spaces.
Maximum Humidity Levels
Some Reolink cameras included in this research can handle up to 90% humidity like the E1 Zoom, RLC-511WA, and RLC-823A, while there is limited information on Ring cameras’ humidity tolerance.
If you live in a humid area, a Reolink camera might be the better choice due to the available information on humidity tolerance.
Camera & Lens
Here, I specifically reviewed the field of view, resolution, lens type, and image sensors of Ring and Reolink to give a clearer view of what they offer.
Winner: Reolink
Reolink cameras offer higher resolutions, and motorized lenses which improve image quality, and increase flexibility in security camera systems.
Field of View
A wider field of view allows for greater coverage of the area you're monitoring.
Ring cameras offer a range of 110 to 160 degrees in the horizontal direction and 57 to 150 degrees in the vertical direction.
Reolink cameras have a more diverse range, with the E1 Zoom having a smaller field of view due to its motorized lens, while the Duo 4G, offers a significantly wider field of view at 180 degrees.
Resolution
Most Ring cameras offer a resolution of 1080p, with the exception of the Ring Pro 2 which has a 1536 x 1536 resolution.
Reolink, on the other hand, offers cameras with various resolutions such as the 1080p Argus Eco, 4MP Argus 3 Pro, and the higher resolution 4K RLC-830A model.
Lens Type
Both brands offer fixed-focus lenses that don't require adjustments, such as the Ring Video Doorbell Pro and Reolink Argus 2E.
Reolink, however, has models like the RLC-823A 16X and RLC-833A that feature motorized lenses. Motorized lenses allow for more control over the focus and zoom capability.
Image Sensors
Both Ring and Reolink use CMOS sensors. Reolink has several models featuring 1/2.49″ to 1/2.7″ image sensors.
Pan, Tilt, and Zoom Capabilities
In this section, I take a look at the PT features of Ring and Reolink cameras, including their zoom capabilities.
Winner: Reolink
Reolink cameras have PTZ features and optical zoom which can zoom in on specific areas of interest and capture greater detail without pixelation or loss of clarity.
PTZ
Most Ring cameras do not have pan, tilt, and zoom (PTZ) features, with the exception of the Stick Up Cam Plug-In. This may be because most of their cameras are designed for specific areas, such as door entrances or indoor monitoring.
On the other hand, Reolink offers a wide array of cameras with various PTZ capabilities.
Among their models, the E1 Zoom, RLC-823A 16X, and RLC-523WA are great examples. These cameras provide substantial pan and tilt angles, and some even include presets and advanced tracking capabilities.
Optical Zoom Features
Optical zoom provides better image quality when zoomed in compared to digital zoom, which could be essential for those who require clear image details for security reasons.
Ring cameras generally offer digital zoom but lack optical zoom options. In contrast, Reolink has a range of models that do include optical zoom, such as the RLC-823A 16X and the RLC-511WA, with magnifications from 3x to 16x.
Camera Models Included in Research
| Ring | Reolink |
| Pro 2 Video Doorbell 4 Video Doorbell 3 Video Doorbell Pro Video Doorbell Elite Indoor Cam Floodlight Cam Wired Pro Spotlight Cam Plus Battery Stick Up Cam Battery Stick Up Cam Plug-In Spotlight Cam Plus Wired | E1 Zoom RLC-823A 16X RLC-830A RLC-1224A RLC-833A Argus Eco Argus 2E Argus 3 Pro Solar Duo 4G Go Plus Argus 3 RLC-511WA Go PT Plus Argus Pro Argus 2RLC-410W RLC-520A E1 Pro RLC-820A RLC-510A Argus PT 2K Lumus Argus 3 Pro RLC-812A RLC-523WA RLC-542WA RLC-511W RLC-810A RLC-822A RLC-811A RLC-823A |