Overview

The Reolink RLC-840A 4K PoE IP Security Camera offers a robust surveillance solution for both residential and commercial properties. This security camera combines exceptional video quality with durability, featuring a 4K Ultra HD resolution and a wide-angle 125° field of view. Designed to withstand the elements, it boasts an IK10 vandalproof rating and IP67 weatherproof protection. Ideal for users seeking a reliable camera for both day and night monitoring, this device incorporates advanced features like color night vision and smart detection, making it a solid choice for anyone serious about home or business security.

Features & Benefits

The Reolink RLC-840A camera stands out with its color night vision, made possible by 3000K spotlights that enhance visibility in low-light environments. Equipped with smart detection, it effectively identifies people, vehicles, and pets, minimizing false alarms. The camera offers easy installation via Power over Ethernet (PoE), simplifying the process with a single cable. Additionally, it supports up to 512GB of microSD storage, ensuring ample space for continuous video recording. These features make the camera an excellent choice for those looking for high-quality security footage and reliable performance.

Best For

This Reolink security camera is best suited for homeowners and businesses in need of a durable, high-performance outdoor camera. Its wide 125° field of view ensures comprehensive coverage, while the color night vision and smart detection system make it ideal for monitoring a variety of environments, day or night. People who prefer a wired installation for stability and easy setup will appreciate the PoE functionality, which reduces clutter and simplifies connections. Additionally, it's perfect for those who value both weatherproof durability and vandalproof protection in their surveillance equipment.

User Feedback

Users generally rate the Reolink RLC-840A highly, with many praising its crisp 4K video quality and easy setup. The color night vision is particularly appreciated for providing clear images even in darkness, while the smart detection system minimizes false alerts. However, some users have noted that the camera lacks remote PTZ control, which could limit its flexibility in certain setups. Despite this, the camera’s combination of features, performance, and durability has made it a popular choice for those seeking reliable security monitoring in a range of environments.

Pros

  • 4K Ultra HD resolution provides sharp, detailed video quality.
  • Color night vision with 3000K spotlights ensures clear footage even in low-light conditions.
  • Smart motion detection reduces false alarms by accurately distinguishing between humans, vehicles, and pets.
  • PoE (Power over Ethernet) simplifies installation with just a single cable for both power and data.
  • IP67 weatherproof rating ensures reliable performance even in harsh outdoor environments.
  • IK10 vandalproof rating makes this camera a sturdy choice for high-risk areas like entrances or driveways.

Cons

  • Lacks remote PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom) control, which limits flexibility in camera positioning.
  • Setup may be challenging for users without a PoE infrastructure or knowledge of network installations.
  • Some users report issues with video quality in total darkness, despite the color night vision feature.
  • Camera design is relatively bulky, which may not be ideal for users looking for a more compact solution.
  • Limited cloud storage options, requiring an external microSD card for local video storage.
  • No built-in motion-triggered alerts to mobile devices unless properly configured.

Ratings

The Reolink RLC-840A 4K PoE IP Security Camera has received high marks from users around the world, with feedback spanning multiple platforms and languages. After analyzing verified reviews, we filtered out any spam or low-quality comments to present an honest overview of its performance. Both strengths and pain points are reflected in the scores, giving potential buyers a comprehensive look at what this device offers. Overall, it stands out for its impressive video quality, ease of setup, and robust durability, although there are some limitations in terms of flexibility with camera positioning due to the lack of PTZ functionality.

Video Quality
91%
Users are consistently impressed by the sharp and clear video quality provided by this device. The 4K resolution ensures crisp images, which is particularly beneficial for capturing fine details, whether for security or surveillance. Many reviewers highlighted how effective it is in both daylight and nighttime conditions.
Some users have noted that while the video quality is impressive, it can be challenging to get the perfect settings for all lighting conditions. A few reported that in some environments, the video becomes slightly grainy, particularly when there is movement or when using the night vision feature in total darkness.
Night Vision Performance
88%
The color night vision feature with 3000K spotlights is highly praised for its ability to capture clear and detailed footage even in low-light conditions. Users appreciate that it enhances visibility, making it easier to distinguish between people, vehicles, and animals at night, without the usual black-and-white infrared footage.
Not everyone was completely satisfied with the night vision performance. Some mentioned that the spotlight isn't strong enough to cover large areas effectively, requiring additional lighting for certain outdoor settings. Others noted that the night vision could be a bit too sensitive to ambient light, affecting the clarity at times.
Setup and Installation
87%
Many users found the setup process straightforward thanks to the PoE (Power over Ethernet) feature, which simplifies wiring by allowing both power and data transmission through a single cable. This design makes installation quicker and more convenient, especially for those who want to avoid dealing with separate power cords.
However, a few buyers reported challenges when trying to mount the camera in hard-to-reach locations, as the included cables were sometimes too short for their preferred setup. Additionally, while PoE simplifies things, it does require users to have a compatible Ethernet network, which may be a hurdle for some.
Smart Detection Accuracy
85%
Users are generally pleased with the camera's smart detection system, which accurately distinguishes between humans, vehicles, and pets. This reduces the number of false alerts, making it a more reliable solution for home security. The ability to customize detection zones further improves its effectiveness.
However, some users have noted that the smart detection feature can be a bit too sensitive, triggering false alarms in certain situations, like wind or moving tree branches. Others mentioned that the detection range could be improved, especially for smaller objects that might not trigger an alert as effectively.
Durability (Weatherproof/Vandalproof)
93%
The camera's IK10 vandalproof and IP67 weatherproof ratings are widely appreciated. Many buyers have mentioned that it holds up well against harsh weather conditions, including rain, snow, and extreme temperatures, making it a durable option for outdoor use. The rugged design ensures it can withstand vandalism and tampering.
Despite its solid construction, a few users have pointed out that the camera's housing could be slightly bulky in some installations. Also, while it can handle most weather conditions, some mentioned that extremely hot temperatures could cause the camera to overheat if left exposed in direct sunlight for extended periods.
Field of View
83%
The camera's 125° field of view provides ample coverage for most areas, making it an excellent choice for monitoring wide outdoor spaces. Users find it ideal for capturing large areas such as driveways, front yards, or entrances without needing multiple cameras.
While the wide field of view is generally a plus, some users feel that it could be even broader to cover more area with less distortion. In some cases, the wide angle results in some parts of the frame being less detailed, especially on the edges, leading to a slight compromise in overall image quality.
Audio Quality (Two-way Talk)
80%
20%
The two-way audio feature allows users to communicate through the camera, making it a handy option for speaking to visitors or monitoring areas remotely. Many buyers found it useful for convenience and ensuring better interaction without needing to open doors or windows.
However, some users noted that the audio quality could be clearer, as occasional background noise or distortion may interfere with conversations. A few also mentioned that the microphone's sensitivity might not pick up softer sounds very well, making it harder to hear faint voices.
Storage Capacity and Flexibility
79%
21%
The ability to expand storage up to 512GB using a microSD card is a big plus for users who want local recording without relying on cloud storage. Many customers appreciate having a lot of storage flexibility to save high-quality footage for long periods without additional costs.
On the flip side, some buyers pointed out that the camera doesn't come with a microSD card, which can be an inconvenience. Additionally, while the 512GB limit is decent, some users have requested the option for even higher capacity cards to store more footage, especially for high-traffic areas.
Power over Ethernet (PoE) Convenience
90%
The PoE feature has been highly praised by users for streamlining the installation process. It reduces the clutter of extra cables and adapters, making setup cleaner and more efficient. Many people prefer PoE because it simplifies wiring and ensures a stable power connection without needing separate outlets.
Despite the convenience, some users mentioned that the PoE requirement might not be ideal for all homes, especially those without existing Ethernet wiring. Setting up a PoE network can be an additional cost or technical challenge for people unfamiliar with networking setups.
Customer Support
72%
28%
When customers have reached out for support, a few reported positive experiences, noting helpful responses from the team and prompt resolution of issues. The available documentation and setup guides are also appreciated by some buyers.
Several customers, however, have had less than satisfactory experiences with customer support. Some mentioned delays in response times, while others expressed frustration over receiving generic or unhelpful answers. This inconsistency in support has been a common complaint among users.
Motion Detection Effectiveness
84%
Users have generally been happy with the camera's motion detection, especially since it can be customized to reduce false alerts. Many buyers noted that it effectively detects movement within the configured zones, contributing to overall reliability in security systems.
That said, some users reported that the motion detection system occasionally misses smaller movements or fails to trigger alerts when there are slight changes in the scene. Additionally, certain areas with heavy foliage or small objects have been prone to occasional false detections.
Overall Value for Money
92%
Most users agree that the camera offers great value for the price, considering its high-quality video, reliable night vision, and durable construction. The inclusion of features like smart detection and PoE further boosts its appeal as a well-rounded security solution.
While the overall value is positive, some users feel that the lack of certain advanced features, such as PTZ control or built-in storage, slightly reduces the value proposition. Additionally, a few have mentioned that the camera's price could be lower to compete with other models offering similar specs.

Suitable for:

The Reolink RLC-840A 4K PoE IP Security Camera is ideal for homeowners who prioritize both security and ease of installation. With its 4K resolution and color night vision, it’s particularly suited for users who need clear and detailed footage in various lighting conditions, making it perfect for monitoring driveways, backyards, or entrances. The camera's PoE functionality simplifies setup for those who want a wire-based solution without the hassle of additional cables. Additionally, its robust IK10 vandalproof and IP67 weatherproof ratings make it an excellent choice for those looking for a durable outdoor security camera in areas with harsh weather or potential vandalism concerns. Users who value smart detection that minimizes false alarms, such as recognizing pets or vehicles, will also appreciate the convenience and reliability it offers.

Not suitable for:

This camera may not be the best option for users who require advanced features such as remote PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom) control, as it lacks that capability. While its wide 125° field of view is effective for most areas, those needing to cover large spaces with more precise control may find the camera's fixed lens limiting. Additionally, while it performs well in most conditions, some users reported that it could struggle with certain lighting situations, such as total darkness or areas with minimal ambient light. For those who prefer wireless cameras or do not have an existing Ethernet setup, the PoE installation requirement could also be a barrier. Lastly, users in extremely hot climates might experience overheating issues if the camera is exposed to direct sunlight for long periods.

Specifications

  • Resolution: The camera delivers 4K Ultra HD resolution (3840×2160) for clear, high-quality video.
  • Field of View: The camera offers a wide 125° diagonal field of view to cover a large area.
  • Lens: It features a 2.8mm lens, optimized for capturing wide-angle footage.
  • Night Vision: The camera includes color night vision with 3000K spotlights for clear low-light performance.
  • Detection: It supports smart motion detection for humans, vehicles, and pets to reduce false alarms.
  • Weatherproof: The camera has an IP67 rating, making it fully protected from dust and capable of withstanding rain and snow.
  • Vandalproof: With an IK10 rating, the camera is resistant to impacts and tampering.
  • Power: The camera uses Power over Ethernet (PoE) for easy installation with a single cable for power and data.
  • Storage: It supports up to 512GB of local storage via microSD card for video recording (card not included).
  • Audio: The camera features two-way audio, allowing you to listen and communicate through the camera.
  • Frame Rate: The camera records video at 25 frames per second (FPS) for smooth playback.
  • Video Encoding: It uses H.265 video encoding for efficient compression, reducing storage requirements while maintaining quality.
  • Infrared Range: The camera has an infrared range of 30 meters for night vision, enabling clear footage in the dark.
  • Mounting Type: It can be mounted on walls or ceilings, offering flexible installation options.
  • Dimensions: The camera's dimensions are 4.61 x 4.61 x 3.39 inches, making it compact yet capable of covering wide areas.
  • Compatibility: It is compatible with Reolink NVRs and can also be used with third-party PoE devices.
  • App Support: You can manage and view footage remotely via the Reolink app on smartphones and computers.
  • Video Output: The camera offers network video output via Ethernet for remote viewing and recording.
  • Mounting Hardware: The camera comes with the necessary hardware for both ceiling and wall mounting.

FAQ

The Reolink RLC-840A is a 4K PoE IP security camera with color night vision, featuring 3000K spotlights for clear low-light footage. It has a 125° field of view, smart detection for humans, vehicles, and pets, and is built with IK10 vandalproof and IP67 weatherproof ratings for durability.

Setting up this device is relatively simple, especially with PoE (Power over Ethernet) technology. You only need a single Ethernet cable for both power and data. Mount the camera, connect it to your router or NVR, and follow the instructions in the Reolink app to complete the setup.

PoE (Power over Ethernet) allows this camera to receive both power and data through a single Ethernet cable, simplifying the installation process. This eliminates the need for separate power cables or outlets, making it an ideal choice for outdoor setups where running multiple wires can be challenging.

Yes, the camera supports up to 512GB of local storage via microSD cards (not included). This allows you to store footage on the device itself, making it easier to access recorded content without needing cloud storage.

The camera offers color night vision with 3000K spotlights, providing clear images in low-light conditions. Unlike traditional black-and-white infrared night vision, this color night vision improves visibility and helps capture more details at night.

The camera offers a wide 125° diagonal field of view, allowing it to cover a larger area compared to standard security cameras. This wide angle ensures better coverage for outdoor spaces like driveways, front yards, and backyards.

Yes, this camera is designed for outdoor use with an IP67 weatherproof rating, which means it is fully protected against dust and can withstand rain and snow. Its IK10 vandalproof rating ensures it can also handle physical impacts, making it ideal for high-risk areas.

No, the Reolink RLC-840A does not support remote PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom) control. This limits flexibility in terms of adjusting the camera's view remotely, but it is still a great option for fixed monitoring areas where PTZ is not necessary.

This camera supports local storage through a microSD card (up to 512GB), providing an easy way to store video footage. It does not offer cloud storage as a built-in feature, so you will need an external storage solution for longer retention.

Yes, this camera can integrate with certain smart home systems. While it may not be compatible with all platforms, it works with the Reolink app for remote viewing and notifications. You can also access live footage and recordings from your smartphone or PC.