With so many smart security systems and cameras hitting the market in recent years, it can be hard to know what is really worth your money. This was my attitude when I first heard about the Reolink Argus 4 Pro Security Camera, but after using it for the past few weeks, I am impressed. This camera promises high-quality surveillance with a host of features that meet the needs of modern homeowners. From the ease of setup to the great picture, if it weren’t for minor issues when first getting started, this would be a must-have and still stands as one of the best we have looked at in 2024.
Upon opening the box, you will find a very modern and well-designed camera system. Unlike the typical bullet-shaped cameras, the Reolink Argus 4 Pro has a compact dual-lens setup that resembles a miniature version of Reolink’s Duo series. The camera’s body is made of durable materials, giving it a robust feel without compromising on aesthetics. Its weatherproof construction (rated IP65) ensures that it can withstand various outdoor conditions, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
In addition to the camera, you will find the typical accessories, such as user manual, mounting hardware and screws, ready for installation. I will say for anyone who wants to record locally on the device you will want to invest in a micro SD card since one does not come in the box. These are generally pretty inexpensive, but something to keep in mind when purchasing.
Taking a deeper look at the camera, the Reolink Argus 4 Pro’s dual-lens system is front and center on the device, which enables a wide 180-degree horizontal field of view. This concept eliminates blind spots and provides comprehensive coverage of your property. The lenses are protected by a sturdy casing, and the overall build quality suggests that Reolink has put considerable thought into creating a device that’s both functional and visually appealing. It also produces a relatively unique picture, but I will talk about that a bit later.
Setting up the Argus 4 Pro is a relatively simple affair, even for those who aren’t particularly tech-savvy. The camera comes with all the necessary mounting hardware, including a versatile bracket that allows for easy adjustment of the viewing angle. For those who prefer a less permanent solution, Reolink has thoughtfully included a strap that can be used to attach the camera to trees or poles, something I like to see, especially for this kind of expensive equipment. For our testing environment, we went with the permanent solution, which is mounting it at our front office.
For anyone who has ever tried to mount a camera that requires cables for internet and power, the wireless nature of the Reolink Argus 4 Pro Security Camera was a huge advantage during installation. There’s no need to worry about running cables or finding a power socket nearby. The camera is powered by a rechargeable battery, which can be easily recharged using the included solar panel. This solar charging capability is a great addition, potentially eliminating the need for manual recharging altogether, and with only three screws, a minor addition to the overall installation process.
“…the wireless nature of the Reolink Argus 4 Pro Security Camera was a huge advantage during installation.”
Thanks to the camera’s Bluetooth connectivity, the initial setup process is streamlined. Users can quickly pair the device with their smartphone and configure the Wi-Fi settings without the hassle of scanning QR codes or manually entering network details. This user-friendly approach to installation sets the Argus 4 Pro apart from many of its competitors, with it up there with the likes of Ring and Lorax for simplicity.
I will say this is where I did run into issues. The camera looked like it was all working, only to get stuck in a half-on state that needed to be fully drained and recharged to get things back in order. I have talked to PR about the issue, and it seems to be a relatively rare thing, but for someone trying to get a camera ready for testing, it was frustrating nonetheless. Thankfully, the method I tried worked, and after a day, things were back up and running like normal.
The Argus 4 Pro is packed to the brim with features that cater to a wide range of security needs. At the heart of the camera is its 4K resolution sensor, which captures incredibly detailed footage. This high resolution is particularly useful for identifying faces or reading license plates at a distance. I was shocked by the field of view and clarity when I first set everything up, and even now I look and compare it to competing brands and am amazed at how well the video from the Argus 4 Pro looks.
One of the most impressive features is the camera’s colour night vision capability. Unlike traditional security cameras that rely on infrared for night-time recording, the Argus 4 Pro uses advanced low-light technology to capture colour footage even in dark conditions. This feature significantly enhances the camera’s ability to provide useful information during nighttime events.
The camera’s motion detection system is highly customizable. Users can adjust the sensitivity and create specific detection zones to minimize false alarms. The Argus 4 Pro uses PIR (Passive Infrared) technology, which detects heat signatures rather than just movement, further reducing the likelihood of false triggers.
Two-way audio is another feature of the Argus 4 Pro that many users will love. The built-in microphone and speaker allow users to communicate with visitors or potential intruders directly through the camera. This can be particularly useful for deterring unwanted activity or simply greeting delivery drivers. While this feature can be found on other competing products, the seamless way in which it is implemented here stands out, especially for someone who wants a camera that works without fiddling with settings.
As I mentioned above, the camera does not come with a micro SD card in the box, but the Argus 4 Pro does offer flexible storage options. Users can opt for local storage using a microSD card (up to 128GB) or use Reolink’s cloud storage service. The local storage option provides peace of mind for those concerned about privacy and data security.
The Reolink app is the control centre for the Argus 4 Pro. Available for iOS and Android devices, it provides a clean and organized interface for managing the camera’s settings and accessing its features. Once set up, the app makes it easy to manage the camera, allowing you to set the level of notifications and alerts to suit your needs. There are even options for audible sirens to sound when people walk in front of the camera, but this should be used with caution as, as with any security system, it can go off at random times depending on how things are set up and what kind of people or animals are passing through the area it is monitoring.
Live streaming through the app is smooth and responsive, with minimal lag, even when accessing the camera remotely. The app also allows users to customize motion detection settings, adjust video quality, and manage storage options easily. The app also facilitates easy sharing of camera access with family members or trusted friends, adding an extra layer of convenience and security.
“When compared to other security cameras in its class, the Reolink Argus 4 Pro Security Camera holds its own and often exceeds expectations.”
For anyone who loves a fully integrated ecosystem, the Argus 4 Pro is compatible with popular platforms like Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. This allows users to incorporate the camera into their broader smart home ecosystem, though it’s worth noting that some competitors offer more extensive integration options.
When compared to other security cameras in its class, the Reolink Argus 4 Pro Security Camera holds its own and often exceeds expectations. Its 4K resolution and 180-degree field of view put it ahead of many competitors that offer lower resolutions or narrower viewing angles. The setup and overall monitoring are first-class and compare very well with the likes of Ring and Lorax, making the process as painless as possible, something other brands sadly cannot claim.
However, compared to Ring, the Argus 4 Pro’s local storage option is a significant advantage for users concerned about privacy. Many competing cameras rely solely on cloud storage, which can raise security concerns and often comes with recurring subscription fees. If you want the basic security to keep your home safe, Reolink has built something that does what it needs to do, so much so that upsells like cloud monitoring will feel unnecessary for the general needs of most users.
The Argus 4 Pro is priced at $249.99, which puts it at the mid-to-high end of the market. While it may be more expensive than some basic security cameras, its feature set and build quality will justify the higher price for many users. With the range of features, image quality, and local storage options, the premium price is more than justified, even if it does cost a little more upfront.
The Reolink Argus 4 Pro Security Camera is a compelling option in the crowded field of home security cameras. Its combination of high-resolution video, wide field of view, colour night vision, and flexible power options make it a versatile choice for a variety of security needs. While it may not be the cheapest option available, its robust feature set and user-friendly design make it a worthy investment for those looking to enhance their home security setup.
- What’s in the box?
- Reolink Argus 4 Pro+Reolink Solar Panel*1
