This Amcrest 5MP POE turret cam is what I've been upgrading all my cameras to. It has excellent picture, nice wide angle view, and works pretty solid with BI and has audio which works well as long as the wind isn't blowing. I have 9 of them now and am planning to upgrade my last older camera with one of these soon. For $50 they are nice cameras.
Thanks! I am planning to set up Frigate for HA. Do not have any cams yet.
The two proposals are both 160$/piece whereas this Amcrest (mentioned in the thread above) is just 50$.
Do you think 3x premium is really worth it?
I have a colorvu its really dissapointing. I got this one DS-2CD2347G2-LU 4MP
The thing is, its all marketing bs the reality of color at night is that the cams have a built in white light led but it doest shine very far at all, and if it did, it would annoy the neighbors. I can see the neighbors driveway across the street with cheap IR cams, not the colorvu. The color on the color vu only goes about 20-30 feet. Also realistically the alarm and 2 way audio is useless. Under what scenario are you gonna shine a strobe remotely or talk to someone? If you set the cam to alarm on motion detected its gonna be 99% false alarms, like always, and you will turn it off.
I have a few of these, they are amazing value. IR works great. You can always add a cheap IR emitter to see much farther at night, and the IR wont be visible so you dont annoying neighbors with flood lights on all night. These are $50 each!
I use 4 of these cameras at my home, and they work great. I use this with QNAP QVR Pro, and it stores all of my video files on my NAS. I have it record on motion zones. If you use QVR Pro, you need an upgraded license so you can review your videos after a few weeks. I believe this license cost a one time $100.
I can also review these videos from my phone using the QVR Pro App, and I do this by using VPN to get access to my NAS.
Sadly I don't know the video software,j ust the cameras I want to use. Fair point on the USB. I may use just more of these POE, hence the confusion.
Link below:
Amcrest 5MP would be perfect Limited-time deal: Amcrest 5MP UltraHD Outdoor Security IP Turret PoE Camera with Mic/Audio, 5-Megapixel, 98ft NightVision, 2.8mm Lens, IP67 Weatherproof, MicroSD Recording (256GB), White (IP5M-T1179EW-28MM) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B083G9KT4C
I know this is a basic and annoying question. I too am tired of eufy.
Are you saying I can get something like this: Amcrest 5MP UltraHD Outdoor Security IP Turret PoE Camera with Mic/Audio, 5-Megapixel, 98ft NightVision, 2.8mm Lens, IP67 Weatherproof, MicroSD Recording (256GB), White (IP5M-T1179EW-28MM) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B083G9KT4C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_EX81RRZP9DMTQZ4W8X3B
And it will record to iCloud (HKSV) and work like the eufys are supposed to in HomeKit?
I have a MacMini running 24x7 and a RasPi4 running homebridge.
The only other 8MPs that I have are GOSWIFT brand ones that I picked up from Nelly’s Security a few years back and they both support rotating the full 8MP no problem but no built in mic and Nelly’s doesn’t sell them anymore either.
Perhaps a 5MP Amcrest like this (IP5M-T1179EW-28MM) might be able to do it. 5 MP isn’t the 8MP you’re looking for but it’s at least better than 2MP.
Some of the Amcrest cameras are Dahua rebrand cam
For example
Amcrest 5MP UltraHD Outdoor Security IP Turret PoE Camera with Mic/Audio, 5-Megapixel, 98ft NightVision, 2.8mm Lens, IP67 Weatherproof, MicroSD Recording (256GB), White (IP5M-T1179EW-28MM) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B083G9KT4C/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_3AH83BDSX64ZMN6BFRY4?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I am using the low quality stream for Live and high quality for Record.
Live URL:
rtsp://(Username):(Password)%21@(IP Address):544/cam/realmonitor?channel=1&subtype=1&unicast=true&proto=Onvif
Record URL:
rtsp://(Username):(Password)%21@(IP Address):544/cam/realmonitor?channel=0&subtype=1&unicast=true&proto=Onvif
I can't tell what the URL is when viewing the cameras in the Amcrest web UI but it seems to be the same.
I have tried rebooting the cameras but it appears to be an issue with the Agent software as I can view the streams in Amcrest web UI while they appear black in Agent.
The time it takes for the stream to go black has varied. I've now seen it happen moments after relaunching the Agent software to around 2 to 3 hours later.
I have tried the disable and enable option in the camera settings within the Agent software but the stream stays black. Also, while it is black it no longer detects and no longer records. Stopping and Starting the Agent local service now appears to bring the streams back up.
I'll play around with some settings and update with any findings. Since updating my VLC install the camera feeds have not gone black. They have been up for roughly 25 minutes. Thank you for the help thus far.
Camera Model: IP5M-T1179EW-28MM
Since no one has really offered camera recommendations, I recommend the Amcrest. It's PoE and supports RTSP. Note: if you plan on using Frigate for object detection, the camera you buy must support RTSP.
Here's what I use outdoors and they work great: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B083G9KT4C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_K13BDYRMXPJHVCHWQ9NY?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
If you're still looking https://www.amazon.com/Amcrest-5-Megapixel-NightVision-Weatherproof-IP5M-T1179EW-28MM/dp/B083G9KT4C seem to be some really good bang for buck cameras. OEM Dahua cameras that are rebadged as Amcrest. $50 ish seems like a steal to me for PoE 5MP cameras that are out of a good, major manufacturer.
It sounds like this is just for monitoring, we have 4 of these (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B083G9KT4C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_FSBASVZSK1KARMFRGHQC). Cheap and decently low lag time over the network. My old job used AXIS and they are awesome but definitely a tier above in price as well.
Amcrest 5MP UltraHD Outdoor Security IP Turret PoE Camera with Mic/Audio, 5-Megapixel, 98ft NightVision, 2.8mm Lens, IP67 Weatherproof, MicroSD Recording (256GB), White (IP5M-T1179EW-28MM) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B083G9KT4C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fabc_C3OVFb7HFQKKX?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I can't speak to that model of Amcrest, but this one is one I have connected to my NVR (Q-See, rebranded Dahua) and also connected to my HA setup via ONVIF. I also enjoy that I can connect to the web interface via firefox on Linux, no plugin/extension required.
It give me the following entities:
tamper detection
cell motion detection
global scene change
motion alarm
last reboot
processor usage
It also gives you the name of the camera, which always shows "idle"
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Hope that helps.
Worst you could do is buy it, connect it up and if it does not meet your need, you have until Jan 31, 2021 to return it for free.
It is ok, definitely not ideal. I am in the process of replacing them with some of these amcrest cameras
I like this one Amcrest 5MP UltraHD Outdoor Security IP Turret PoE Camera with Mic/Audio, 5-Megapixel, 98ft NightVision, 2.8mm Lens, IP67 Weatherproof, MicroSD Recording (256GB), White (IP5M-T1179EW-28MM) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B083G9KT4C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_hYPtFbMM07SC1
I'm personally a fan of my Dahua but they do tend to be on the spendier side. Amcrest gets really good reviews as well, and they have a few in the sub $50 range, including ones that have PTZ.
Similar with PTZ - low light sensors (though not 'starlight' technically)
This one is a bit more but includes a starlight sensor
Note: Higher MP isn't always better. Yes my Dahua are 4k technically but their lowlight - even though they're 'starlight' - aren't as good as 1080p models as the more dense the resolution the worse low light you inherently have (when talking apples to apples in terms of optic/sensor sizes)
But also one reason Wyze can sell for a little less is because their business model encourages things like subscribing to CamPlus which is likely far more profitable for them. I suppose that does make the Wyze Cam v3 somewhat 'cheaper' - but I'd also say you get more with something like an Amcrest.
Two would be fine, as long as you can run at least one run between them. You might consider linking the switches with fiber.
I wouldn't run less than two cables to any given drop, either as a backup, or in case you want one network connection and maybe want to also patch something else like the analog side of a VoIP ATA.
As far as a PoE switch, just something to consider.
And there are tons of IP cameras, that range widely in price, reliability, quality, compatibility, etc. Of the several ones I've tried, This Amcrest is the one I like best.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B083G9KT4C/
FWIW, racks are nify, but not always needed. You can get wall-mount patch panels, and lots of routers, switches, etc, can be wall mounted. See my profile for some pictures of my setup.
Here are some decent PoE switches:
https://www.amazon.com/NETGEAR-Unmanaged-Rackmount-Lifetime-Protection/dp/B07788WK5V/
https://www.amazon.com/TRENDnet-Rackmount-Brackets-Protection-TPE-TG161H/dp/B09X9GCJ2M/
Here are the patch panels I'm using:
Amcrest work fine with your local network, via your choice of software or directly with something like VLC.
I've been looking over the Amcrest - what is the difference between the AI and the regular cameras? Looking at these 2:
The price difference is a lot and if Frigate does all the AI detection - how does the AI version benefit me?
I personally run a server rack in my basement.
I run Windows Server on it.
All computers in the house are on the server.
The server is hosting Home Assistant.
https://www.home-assistant.io/
​
Home Assistant runs all my smart devices in my house.
I'm only on this thread looking for new network video recorders and landed here but want to chime in.
Run at least two CAT drops (whether it is 5e or 6/6e) to all rooms, period. Trust me. Box of CAT is cheap in all cases.
I have Blue Iris (which can be purchased and goes on sale often), as a service on my server. I have hardwired doorbells on all doors and POE cameras on my house corners.
I have a POE switch in my rack with my server that provides power to my cameras.
• So buy a server
• Buy a POE switch
• Buy a rack and mount it on the wall
• Buy cameras
• Run all the drops to a patch panel
I personally installed Amcrest cameras
I have Blue Iris (which can be purchased and goes on sale often), as a service on my server.
I have hardwired doorbells on all doors and POE cameras on my house corners.
Link list:
Cameras – https://www.amazon.com/dp/B083G9KT4C?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details
Server (Example) -https://www.ebay.com/itm/154593634910
Network Rack - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074NTJ3X6?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details&th=1
Blue Iris - https://amcrest.com/blue-iris-downloadable-version-5.html
Patch Cables – Search Amazon. Get some 1ft, 5ft, 7ft.
Door Bells - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B091KMT9GB/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
​
Switch - https://store.ui.com/collections/unifi-network-switching/products/usw-24-poe
Either way youre going to run cable. It might as well be POE injected and worth your time.
​
Either way, you're going to run cable. It might as well be POE injected and worth your time.
Then you get the money trade-up iSpy for Blue Iris, you won't be disappointed.
These are awesome for $57
https://www.amazon.com/Amcrest-5-Megapixel-NightVision-Weatherproof-IP5M-T1179EW-28MM/dp/B083G9KT4C
Amcrest cameras are actually Dahua cameras too. For under 500:
Get 4 of these: Amcrest 5MP UltraHD Outdoor Security IP Turret PoE Camera with Mic/Audio, 5-Megapixel, 98ft NightVision, 2.8mm Lens, IP67 Weatherproof, MicroSD Recording (256GB), White (IP5M-T1179EW-28MM) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B083G9KT4C/
Get one of these: Amcrest NV4108-HS 4K 8CH NVR (1080p/3MP/4MP/5MP/6MP/8MP) Network Video Recorder - Supports up to 8 x 4K (8MP) IP Cameras @30fps, Supports up to 6TB HDD (Not Included) (No Built-in WiFi) 2020 Version https://www.amazon.com/dp/B085125HY7/
Get a hard drive: Seagate 6 TB 3.5" Internal Hard Drive ST6000NM0044 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00JJIEET2/
Total above: $421
Item | Current | Lowest | Reviews |
---|---|---|---|
Amcrest 5MP UltraHD Outdoor Security IP Turret Po… | $62.99 | - | 4.4/5.0 |
^Item Info | Bot Info | Trigger
Item | Current | Lowest | Reviews |
---|---|---|---|
Amcrest 5MP UltraHD Outdoor Security IP Turret Po… | $62.99 | $62.99 | 4.4/5.0 |
^Item Info | Bot Info | Trigger
Brand doesn't really matter, they're all random pop-up-and-disappear Chinese brands anyway.
Here are a list of camera features that I recommend having in any cameras for a new residential setup though:
A feature you probably do NOT need: PTZ. Aka, being able to remotely move your camera is only necessary in very specific circumstances, and is generally not needed, since your cameras will be watching specific areas. It is POSSIBLE that the latest version of Blue Iris MIGHT be able to patrol a camera across an area and pause every now and then to execute motion detection, before resuming the patrol. But I do not know, you would need to research that one on your own. Still, that kind of function might be useful if you have a very wide area that you need to monitor and would prefer to do it with only one camera. Most of the time, it is not needed. Example, your front door and your garage can probably be 100% covered with a single non-PTZ camera.
Here is an amazon search for cameras that generally fit the bill:
From this list, I think the 4th camera looks pretty good: Amcrest 5MP POE Camera. Not is it IP67 rated, but the protective dome also has IK10 impact resistance.
The camera below it, result #5, looks like on paper it might actually be more impressive, as it has a lot more ratings (1740 vs 167). But in my opinion, not having the clear sphere dome is a big minus, because it will be much harder to clean. YES, you have to clean your cameras periodically, natural weather and even spiders can cause the dome to become dirty, and your lens will start smearing and be difficult to see out of at night, especially when the infrared kicks on. Having a clear sphere dome makes it SUPER easy to clean with a paper towel and some glass cleaner. Simple geometry is best.
They have 4K cameras (8MP), which obviously have higher resolution, but of course they cost a lot more. I think for residential applications this is generally unnecessary. Unless you live in a mansion, or own a store and are trying to catch a sneaky shoplifter, 4K should be unnecessary. Also, 4K can increase your computing requirements, needing a faster computer, more electricity, and generating more heat. Which can actually be good in the winter, btw, but maybe not so much in the summer...
I'm rambling. There's probably plenty here to get ya started if that's what you want to do.
You need either a PoE switch or a PoE injector to provide the power over Ethernet.
Unless your existing equipment specifically says it provides PoE ports, it probably won't. That said, if you can power it separately, any router should be able to handle the *networking* part of it.
Although depending on the specific brand and model, you might need a specific proprietary app to setup and manage the camera. There ARE ones that work with any regular browser, and require no special app. I can confirm that this one does:
After multiple reolink failures, I replaced them with the similarly priced amcrest.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B083G9KT4C?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Deal link: Amazon (additional 15% off coupon on app)
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I replaced them with similarly priced amcrest cameras. The Amcrest are all around better in terms of night vision and image quality.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B083G9KT4C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apap_HUoOlZmxmuxd2
how do you feel about docker? get a $25 Google Coral and set up Frigate. I use two of these amcrest cameras and it's awesome. DM me if you want some sample footage or something.
IMO, price is high on the prewire, it should be half of that. It's just cable that is pennies per ft and since the walls will be fully exposed, does not involve that much labor. As for the cameras the 580 sounds WAY overpriced. They are just cameras. This is more like what you should be paying.
https://www.amazon.com/Amcrest-5-Megapixel-NightVision-Weatherproof-IP5M-T1179EW-28MM/dp/B083G9KT4C
Get another contractor to do the prewire for much less and don't commit on the cameras yet is what I would do. Key here is to do it before the walls are sealed up.
Deal link: Amazon
Coupon code: W44CKUSN
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I received it in a promo email from Amcrest. Recommend signing up if you are on the lookout but not ready to buy yet. All of the promos they send me link to the Amazon product page and you put in the coupon code at checkout. There is also a 5MP version with the Starvis sensor for $50 after coupon LH4QSBYQ: https://www.amazon.com/Amcrest-5-Megapixel-NightVision-Weatherproof-IP5M-T1179EW-28MM/dp/B083G9KT4C/
I have since gone away from BlueIris and am using QVR Pro with my QNAP NAS fwiw. Cameras are still awesome and I would buy 2 more if I felt like running the cable and installing them.