Security cameras have become an integral part of our homes. It’s our extra pair of eyes kept open at night and the ones we leave behind when we go out. These devices have become so high-tech over the years that they’ve made it possible to transmit live footage directly to your phone or computer no matter where you are—so long as you have an internet connection. The best PoE security cameras have taken over many homes, keeping a vigilant eye for your sake.
The best PoE security cameras offer a massive security boost to your home while still being easy to use. The adoption of home security cameras has seen a massive boost in recent years with homeowners and businesses wanting to bolster their security. Another reason for more adoption is the improvement of the PoE cameras and their cheaper price point.
Many products nowadays offer advanced security features like motion detection, facial recognition, and push notification for a fraction of what that once cost. You’ll be able to capture facial features clearly or zoom in on license plate numbers from far away and have complete peace of mind.
TL;DR: The #1 PoE Camera System for Most People 👇
Reolink 4MP 8CH PoE Video Surveillance System
This PoE camera system from Reolink is well suited to a lot of people due to its combination of excellent security features, ease of setup, and value for money.
There are 4 cameras which are enough to secure most peoples’ homes, large 2TB storage, and 4k resolution!
It’s definitely worth checking out if you’re in the market.
The Best PoE Security Cameras Compared
ANNKE C500 5MP Audio POE Security Camera System
Best for Most People
REOLINK 4MP 8CH PoE Video Surveillance System37.5 x 19.5 x 29 cm
Hiseeu 5MP PoE Security Camera System
#1. ANNKE C500 5MP Audio POE Security Camera System
Why we like it:
- Plug & Play, only 3-step
- 5MP Super HD Resolution
- H.265+ Most Advanced Video Compression
- Motion Detection Alarm & Remote Access
What customers say:
“I am very happy with my ANNKE system. The setup was very easy and straight forward. The system is very customizable and has lots of features. The picture quality is better than what I was expecting. The customer service is from overseas, so there is a bit of a lag time to receive answers, but they are VERY attentive and walked me through setup when I had a question.”- Ken Frink
# of PoE cameras: 8 | Storage: 2TB | Range: 330 ft.| Resolution: 1080p
The ANNKE C500 5MP Audio POE Security Camera System is quite the monster camera kit, and full deserving of the top spot on our list. It is, definitely, a more premium PoE system which may be overkill for some, but its quality is undeniable.
These PoE cameras carry an IP67 waterproof rating, making them completely weatherproof and perfect for outdoor use. There is built-in surge protection and the camera system can withstand temperatures as low as -30 Celcius!
The transmission range via ethernet cables is up to 330 ft and have can connect to the NVR easily with no messy cables. The cameras offer an incredible 2592 X 1944 resolution and night video quality with a 110° wide-angle view.
The lenses are equipped with powerful infrared LEDs that’ll illuminate up to 120ft of coverage at night. There’s also a built-in microphone with noise reduction technology that records audio very crisply.
So, this may be an expensive product, but the quality justifies the price point!
Pros
- IP67 weatherproof-rated PoE cameras
- It comes with 8 cameras
- Improved Night Vision recording
Cons
- User feedback reports a difficult to use software
#2. Reolink 4MP 8CH PoE Video Surveillance System
Why we like it:
- Plug & Play PoE Camera System
- Built-in 2TB security grade Hard Drive
- 4MP Super HD & Vivid Night Vision
- Remote Access From Anywhere Anytime
What customers say:
“If you’re looking for a video camera system and this is within your budget, stop looking you’ve found it. Video quality is amazing at 4mp. I did quite a bit of research and the price point for this system is as good as it gets with this amount of resolution. The nvr is user friendly and easy to install yourself if you chose to go that route.”- Amazon Customer
# of PoE cameras: 4 | Storage: 2 TB (expandable to 6TB) | Range: 270 ft. (via CAT5) / 330 ft. (via CAT6)| Resolution: 1440p
The REOLINK 4MP 8CH PoE Video Surveillance System is our 2nd pick for the best PoE Security camera. It comes with a big storage of 2TB and can still be expandable to 6TB via SATA and another 6TB via e-SATA, which means it has a total expandable storage of 12TB—that’s 10TB more!
It’s the overall best because it has all the basic and premium features that you need from a PoE security camera. It can connect up to 8 channels and comes with an app (Reolink app). Each package will have 4 PoE cameras ready, a 1M CAT5 cable to connect your NVR to the internet modem, another 4 pieces of CAT5 cables (18 meters long) to connect each camera to the NVR. It even comes with a USB mouse and an HDMI cable to easily connect to the monitor.
The Reolink has a smart-motion trigger alert that prompts an e-mail or a push notification to your smart devices when it detects moving objects and triggers an alarm when danger occurs. The image quality it captures is quite high (1440p) with its 4MP super HD and vivid night vision.
Pros
- Long transmission range
- Smart motion detection feature
- Built-in microphone
Cons
- Attaching expandable storage is difficult
#3. Hiseeu 5MP PoE Security Camera System
Why we like it:
- 3Tb Hard Disk
- 8 Channel 1080P
- 2-way audio
- IP67 waterproof
What customers say:
“Very nice camera system for the price, customer service very helpful and responsive. Had an issue with one of the cams, seller was very prompt to resolve problem. Would definitely recommend.“- Rick Isley
# of PoE cameras: 4 | Storage: 1TB | Weatherproof rating: IP66| Resolution: 1080p
The Hiseeu 5MP PoE Security Camera System makes one of the best PoE Security Cameras in the market right now based on many noted features. Nevertheless, what stood out the most is its 2-way audio capability. Paired with its great detection feature, it makes a great must-have for your home security. You’ll be able to hear what the person on the other side of the door or camera is saying and you can answer or talk back. It comes pretty handy when delivery people come and knock on your door.
It doesn’t necessarily rely on the internet for live view and TV playback, so you are assured that you’ll have 24/7 surveillance despite the sudden internet interruption within your area. You’ll only have an internet connection when you want to get remote access via the smartphone app called XMEye Pro and get push notifications and other smart alerts.
It only comes with a 1TB hard drive and considering the high-quality resolution it captures, due to the 5MP lens, you may think you’ll be prone to lack of storage. But fear not as it is also equipped with the H.265+ Intelligent Compression Technology. Your video sizes won’t be as large as you may expect but captured quality won’t be compromised.
Pros
- 2-way audio capability
- It doesn’t necessarily require an internet connect record and run
- Equipped with smart face detection technology
Cons
- Instructions for smartphone live viewing might be complicated for some
#4. Reolink 16CH 5MP PoE Home Security Camera System
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# of PoE cameras: 8 | Storage: 3TB HDD | Range: 300 ft. (based on provided CAT5e cable) | Image quality: 1920p
The is another top-tier PoE camera system that costs a pretty penny but delivers the goods! It ticks every single box you would want ticked when buying security devices.
The Reolink 4K PoE Security Camera System, as the name suggests, records in a lush 2560×1920 resolution that captures details missed by most other cameras.
They also sport motion detection, the ability to customise different zones of your property, set up push alerts, and are of course completely weatherproof. The camera can conceal parts of the image, like when entering the keycode, to make you feel more secure. When a motion is detected, you’ll receive a smart notification via email or a push notification from the app.
Pros
- IP66 weatherproof-rated PoE cameras
- Versatile cameras
Cons
- Pricey
#5. XMARTO Home Security Camera System
Why we like it:
- PIR Human detection
- 2-Way audio
- Improved motion detection
- IP66 rated
What customers say:
“This is a really good system with many features making it an excellent choice for home use. The software isn’t proprietary to Xmarto, several other manufacturers use it in their NVR’s as well. It’s fairly easy to navigate through and set all operating parameters to your specific needs. You do need to be somewhat computer savvy though”- Zeke
# of PoE cameras: 4 | Storage: 1TB | Channel: 8| Resolution: 1080p
The XMARTO Home Security Camera System is considered one of the best PoE security camera systems for business because of its insane wireless feature. The individual cameras won’t depend on an ethernet cable to be powered. Instead, each camera has its own AC adapter and has WiFi support. It doesn’t have a mounting range limit because of its G3 AUTO Dream Liner WiFi Relay. This means that a camera with a weak WiFi signal will automatically pick up and repeat the signal from close-by cameras to connect to the NVR. Or you can use xmartO RPT20 auto WiFi repeaters to further extend the WiFi range without having to invest in long ethernet cables. The cameras are not restricted to the 330 ft. mounting range limit, which makes it good for wide-spaced business establishments.
Each camera works with a dual WiFi that allows it to connect with other cameras so it won’t interrupt or consume your WiFi bandwidth. The cameras also have 2-way audio with high-gain built-in microphones and speakers. Aside from being notified via push notification or email, you’ll be able to hear a siren from the camera that detects an unusual motion.
Pros
- Independent WiFi system for wireless connection
- The cameras are not restricted by the 330 ft. mounting range limit
- Equipped with 2-way audio and individual speakers
Cons
- Connecting each camera to their WiFi connection might be difficult for the non-tech savvy
#6. EVERSECU 4C 3MP HD POE NVR Video Security Camera System
Why we like it:
- Easy setup and installation
- H.264+ compression
- Night Vision
- 24/7 Real-time Remote Monitoring
What customers say:
“Overall I am very impressed with this system and how it is working. I would recommend this entry level system – it has given me some piece of mind that I can record anyone on my property and I’m hoping that it will be a deterrent for would be intruders.”- Mark W
# of PoE cameras: 4 | Weatherproof rating: IP66 | Range: 20m (based on provided CAT5 cable)| Resolution: 1080p
The EVERSECU 4C 3MP HD POE NVR Video Security Camera System caps off the best PoE Security Cameras list with its highly reliable system that is great for a beginner. It comes with an affordable price tag for a security camera system and it offers great basic and semi-premium features.
One of its downsides is not having an included hard drive and can only support up to a 4TB SATA HDD. Nevertheless, for a starter pack, the EVERSECU won’t restrict you with a storage limit as some brands will include only a 1TB hard drive, so you are forced to buy another storage unit—it’s a bit redundant which can be a bit of a hassle.
The provided CAT5 ethernet cables are only up to 20m which is good enough for home security use. It can sufficiently cover a standard-sized house. The cameras have an IP66 weatherproof rating with an IR night vision of up to 30 meters. It also has smart motions alerts which will notify you of weather via in-app push notifications or emails
Pros
- Reliable remote access
- 1080p live viewing
- Easy to set up—great for beginners
Cons
- Hard drive not included
#7. ZOSI 720P PoE Home Security Camera System
Why we like it:
- H. 265/H. 265+ video compression
- 720p
- Indoor and Outdoor Using with IP66
- Mobile Remote Access
What customers say:
“This is such a good security system for the price”- Amazon Customer
# of PoE cameras: 4 | Storage: 1 TB | Range: 300 ft. (via CAT6) | Resolution: 720p
The ZOSI 720P PoE Home Security Camera System is highly innovative. Its system can even work without an internet connection. Although, this means you won’t be able to access the app for live viewing and other remote access features.
It has a 1080p HD resolution and its NVR can support a 4K/8MP HDMI output. It’ll give you sharper and smoother images and videos in 2K resolution. Producing high-quality images and videos won’t fill up your 1TB storage immediately as it is equipped with an H.265+ compression technology that’ll save 60% to 90% of storage space without dropping the high resolution. Basically, it’ll only reduce the size but not the resolution.
It also comes with an app, the ZOSI Smart app, where you can easily live stream or watch any previously recorded footage. Additionally, it comes with motion detection and smart alert features as well. The device will notify you via app push notification, email, and buzzer alarms.
Pros
- The PoE cameras have IP66 Weatherproof Rating
- Equipped with video compression technology for storage saving
- Multiple recording modes
Cons
- The motion detection system might be too sensitive
#8. Swann SWDVK-845808WL 1080p Security System
Why we like it:
- 1TB Hardrive for massive amounts of storage
- 2-Way Audio & Siren
- 1080p Full HD
- Excellent night vision capability
# of PoE cameras: 8 | Channel: 8| Resolution: 1080p
The Swann SWDVK-845808WL 1080p Security System is just another great model of POE cameras. This product comes with an included 1TB hard disk storage.
What makes this product one of the best PoE security cameras is its powerful night vision. This device system embodies the true meaning of “plug and play”. Similar to the previous models, the cameras are equipped with a dual WiFi system that carries an independent wireless connection to enable the cameras to connect with each other without the use of your home internet WiFi connection.
However, the system placed inside is an updated 2020 version which allows the cameras to automatically connect on their own without the users having to do it manually. This solves the issue that we’ve highlighted with the previous product.
This model is also equipped with the G3 Auto Dreal Liner WiFi relay, a built-in microphone, and IR Night vision.
Pros
- Cameras auto-connect with each other
- Equipped with IR night vision with a 50m-range limit
Cons
- You are restricted in placing the cameras near an outlet for the AC adapter power supply
PoE Security Cameras: Buyer’s Guide
Right now, the market is filled with so many options and varieties for security camera systems. Many brands and manufacturers offer quite innovative devices. The best PoE security cameras can be costly and as a home or business owner, you would want to get the one that’ll be worth the purchase. Also, you’d one a system that you can rely on, especially when you are away for travel or at work. You need to ensure the safety of your family and, of course, your belongings and property. If you’d still want to consider other products outside of this list, we’ve curated a comprehensive buyer’s guide to help you out. Here are a few factors to consider when looking into PoE security cameras:
What is a PoE Camera?
PoE stands for “power-over-ethernet” which means it contains ethernet ports that will provide power and network communications to your smartphones, laptops, and in this case, security cameras. It uses an ethernet cable to power the camera and transmits video to its recorder at the same time.
How We Picked the Best PoE Security Cameras
We spent dozens of hours researching, identifying, comparing, and analysing different PoE camera systems to bring you this list of the best PoE security cameras available in the Australian market right now. We use a comprehensive review methodology to rank the PoE camera in order of overall quality.
We assess the quality of each product based on the following criteria:
- Effectiveness
- Value for money
- Ease of set up
- Ease of use
Effectiveness
In order the assess the effectiveness of the PoE camera we looked at how well they secure a property. Video quality, storage capacity, night mode, motion capture, and other security-focused features are considered.
Value for Money
These camera systems can vary in cost quite dramatically with some brands offering far better value for money than others despite very similar specs. All of the PoE camera systems on this list offer good value for money.
Ease of Set-up
Having an overly complicated setup is a big headache that can limit the effectiveness of the system itself if an improper setup is done. Is it easy to integrate with smart devices and how easy is it to set up push notifications are just a couple of the considerations. We have ranked these products with that in mind.
Ease of Use
Being able to easily adjust and change the settings is imperative. How easy is it to review footage? Is there a native app? Does it seamlessly fit into daily life, or does it require more work than it’s worth?
If you don’t have the time to read the full guide, you can just click on the links below to skip to the specific products.
Number of cameras and supported channels
Each brand will provide you with a starter pack system but it’ll mention how many channels the NVR can support, so you can add a few more cameras if you’d like. Most of the time, you’ll get 4 cameras per package but the NVR can support, let say, up to 8 channels. This means you can add 4 more cameras. There’s no specific standard but this is the usual package offered, especially for homes.
For business packages, however, brands will offer more for better and wider security coverage. Usually, it’ll support more than 8 channels. Imagine the ones you see in shopping malls and grocery stores like Target or Walmart. 32 cameras might not even be enough for some businesses.
Also, make sure to check for the mounting range limit of the cameras. Generally, PoE cameras have a 330 ft. mounting range limit. This means this is the farthest a camera can be from the NVR. Not all will have a 330 ft. limit, others will have less and so you have to be meticulous enough to double-check. If you don’t see it on the product information, you will likely get an idea of how long the offered ethernet cables are.
Image quality / resolution
With the birth of 4K resolution, 1080p should be your standard image quality or resolution. Security cameras should be able to provide you with crisp quality that you’ll be able to distinctly identify people’s faces and other objects. It’ll come quite handy when you’re identifying perpetrators or plate numbers of cars. The best PoE security cameras will come in different megapixel lenses.
Set a limit of 2MP cameras but you have to make sure it has a good image and video resolution relay. This means it’ll be able to render good quality captures to your NVRs. Nonetheless, you’ll encounter PoE cameras that sport 8MP lenses, which are great but they will probably cost you more.
Storage
Storage is very important with security camera systems. This allows you to store as many videos for a long time before you have to clear them up or back them up in your archives. Some will normally offer as low as 1TB hard drive storage while others won’t even offer a hard drive at all.
This comes with its own advantages and disadvantages. If you’re still trying to test the waters or new to having a security system, then a 1TB storage should be enough to play around with. Especially when you just need it for remote access live viewing when you are away from home. However, if you’re a business, 1TB will probably not be enough, especially if you don’t have the time to constantly back up or clear out the drive space. Those that don’t offer a hard drive mean that you won’t be limited to what is offered (some will even be less expensive because hard drives can be costly). You have the freedom to buy a bigger storage drive.
When thinking about buying a bigger storage drive or expanding make sure to check the storage limit that your NVR can support. Some may only be able to support up to 4TB of SATA HDD while others have a 6TB limit. Many best PoE security camera systems have an 8TB limit.
Companion mobile application
One of the main reasons why we want to get the best PoE security camera systems is because of the remote access availability or the capability to view and monitor what your security cameras capture in real-time. You’ll be able to check your house or business from time to time.
Most, if not all, security camera systems will offer a companion mobile app where you remotely access your NVR and be able to receive push notification alerts. Other brands will offer many added features as face detection plans and alarm sounds like a siren when something unusual is detected.
Make sure to get a product that has a mobile companion app. If it is offered on Google Play or App Store, it’s much better but other brands may have it as a downloadable APK on their website to avoid store listing costs.
Conclusion
The best PoE security cameras can be a lifesaver to you, to your family, and your business. Everybody needs a few spare eyes to keep everything safe. Security systems have been proven and tested to be a saving grace for many people. Crimes have been solved due to it too.
The price you pay for getting only the best is nothing compared to the lives you secure with it. It gives you peace of mind that can’t be measured by money. You don’t have to get the most high-tech and the most complicated set-up, you just need to get the most reliable and the most convenient for you.
