The 10 Best PoE IP Cameras
This wiki has been updated 22 times since it was first published in October of 2019. The acronym "PoE" stands for power over Ethernet, meaning that these cameras source their power from the local area network cable through which they also transfer data to a network video recorder or home computer. This means a secondary power cable is unnecessary, making installation easier, and it provides a more stable connection compared to a wireless one via Wi-Fi. When users buy our independently chosen editorial selections, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
Editor's Notes
September 16, 2020:
PoE takes a lot of the effort out of many types of device installations by allowing internet protocol (IP) devices to send and receive data and power over LAN cables, and this is certainly the case with the security cameras ranked here. Most models require a PoE injector or PoE switch to provide power at the other end of the cable, and these are usually sold separately, so this is a consideration to take into account while you are planning your security setup.
Other considerations might include the size of the property that you wish to secure and the viewing angle required from your camera. For example, if you are installing it in a corner then any camera with a viewing angle of over 90 degrees will suffice, whereas if you are installing it in a central location, then the wider the viewing angle, the better. If you have a large area to secure, then good night vision reach is also an important factor.
As a general rule, the more expensive the camera, the better its field of vision. Of the items in this ranking, the Reolink RLC-410-5MP, SV3C Super HD, Anpviz IPC-D250W-S, and Amcrest IP5M-1173EB are all lower-priced solutions that function perfectly well for home use, or where a wide field of vision is not required, for instance in smaller yards, garages, or above a porch.
Those looking to secure a larger home, business, or commercial facility, might consider the Hitosino IPC-HFW4431R, JideTech Dome Style, Amcrest IP8M-T2499EW, Annke C800, or Reolink RLC-423. All of these have wide-angle lenses that can capture large areas, and impressive infrared night vision capabilities, with the latter being able to capture footage up to 190 feet away in low lighting.
All the cameras here can be used with either proprietary or third-party software, enabling the user to receive email alerts and screen captures that are triggered by motion, and in some cases audio, as is the case with the Amcrest IP8M-T2499EW. The Alptop AT-500PE is motorized and swivels on vertical and horizontal axes, enabling the user to pan and tilt remotely via their mobile device; a feature that would appeal to anyone who worries about the security of their home or business.
Special Honors
Custom Installation by CCTV Security Pros If you are looking to secure a large area, such as an entire home, business, or commercial facility, then it may be worth considering a professional installation. This New Jersey-based company offers several out-of-the-box packages, including NVRs, switches, and peripherals, to suit many different situations, as well as custom packages tailored to suit your requirements. They also offer full support to help ensure you get the most out of your installation and to make sure it works as expected. cctvsecuritypros.com