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The CX810 camera from Reolink is a vast improvement on the much-loved CX410. CX stands for ColorX and this impressive range of home security cameras has a massive following. Not only are they affordable, but the simple-to-wire devices allow technophobes the opportunity to improve their home security with ease. Additionally, the Reolink app is straightforward to use, and this new camera has some improved features that blow its predecessor out of the water.
The CX410 is a phenomenal device. However, it is only capable of 2K recording. Well, step forward the CX810 camera and flex your impressive recording prowess. This device can record at 4K and boasts an impressive over 8k bitrate and a decent 25 fps. It has Reolink AI smart detection, intelligent motion detection, and the ability to record 24/7. More importantly, unlike some of its peers, this device requires no subscription service. As such, you may record, download, and edit footage for the one-off payment of purchasing the camera.
What’s in the box of the CX810 camera?
- The small packaging is vibrant and eye-catching. The contents are well protected, but it was disappointing to see some non-recyclable materials. I appreciate the desire for protection, but I’d prefer a higher price point and fully recyclable packaging.
- The CX810 camera uses a bullet design. Furthermore, it has a metal shell, a built-in microphone and a speaker, and it has IP67 waterproof protection for the connections.
- Waterproof Ethernet covers are provided.
- Wall mounting screws and plugs help you to mount it onto any brick surface.
- A small Ethernet cable can be used to connect the device.
- A wall plate enhances the waterproof elements.
- Learn the fundamentals with the user manual.
Technical aspects.
The CX810 camera uses a PoE connection system for a user-friendly approach. However, you can connect a standard cable and a 12V DC power cable if you so wish. I opted for the PoE as this was the most convenient and streamlined design. Additionally, I didn’t like the idea of running 2 separate cables. Once the camera is set up, you are advised to use the Reolink phone app to get things started. If you have any other Reolink products, this camera will integrate with your home system. As soon as the camera is live, you can adjust a plethora of settings, watch live streams, access recordings, and much more (more on this later).
Back to the technical elements, the lens has 4 supplementary spotlights for added security and to improve nighttime recording. Additionally, the camera has an F1.0 Super Aperture to increase the level of light in the lens. Accordingly, this device will allow up to 4 times the light of a F2.0 alternative. When you observe the nighttime footage, the results are plain to see.
Alongside this, there is a 93.2-degree horizontal and 48.2-degree vertical tilted view. This is complemented by the 3840 by 2160 resolution and the ability to record in 4K definition. Furthermore, you may utilise HDR to improve picture quality and shadow definition. However, if this isn’t useful, you can switch it off using the handy app.
The tech keeps coming.
If you are familiar with the brand, you may already own the Reolink NVR. If you do not, you needn’t worry. The CX810 camera allows you to record locally with the use of a micro-SD card (Max 256 GB). Additionally, you may livestream via the app for peace of mind. If you do a live stream, you can use the microphone and speaker to activate the 2-way function. This is a great tool if you wish to challenge unwanted guests or reassure a delivery driver. During testing, the microphone pick-up was okay, but I recommend asking the person to move closer to the camera or to speak up if you wish to have a clear conversation.
A smart home is on most people’s agenda. Thankfully, this camera is compatible with the Reolink NVR and Google and Amazon devices. Though this wasn’t an area I experimented with, I can see how this would benefit busy people. Moreover, thanks to the password security, I have no concerns regarding cyber-attacks or hacking. However, this assumption is based on a sensible internet security approach.
The Reolink app.
My favourite element of this device was how well it integrated with the app. Every element of this device can be adjusted and played with at the touch of a button. Moreover, I loved the live streaming facility and the ability to download and edit footage. This was particularly impressive if you needed to provide footage to the police or an insurance company.
You are free to alter display settings, bitrate, shadow and brightness, and HDR. What’s more, you can change the brightness of your spotlights, select any dead zones for recording, and adjust your AI, motion sensor, and 24/7 timers. Finally, you can select whether you wish the motion sensor to record humans, animals, or vehicles. This was particularly impressive, as no one wants a notification of the neighbours’ cat running amuck across their lawn.
Talking of notifications, you are free to select which ones are sent to your device and the ringtone for each one. This was a little fiddly to get used to, but once you get your head around each noise, you can prioritise which notifications to answer and which ones can be ignored.
Recording quality of the CX810 camera.
The CX810 camera delivers excellent recordings. The high-resolution and 4K definition recording were spectacular. Additionally, the viewpoint covers around 50 feet by 60-foot visibility during daylight hours. As the light drops and nighttime hits, this is reduced slightly. During testing, I noted around 30 to 35 feet by 40 feet if the spotlights weren’t on. It does improve slightly if you have the spots turned to maximum brightness, however.
Thanks to the 25 fps, this camera captures fast movement without too much blurring. Consequently, if someone is running across your drive, you’ll make out their key features without that embarrassing 1990s Crimewatch mugshot imagery. I was unable to test this on fast-moving small details, such as a car registration plate. However, I believe that it would capture the lettering without too many issues.
Build quality.
An outdoor security camera has to be robust and built for the worst weather imaginable. Luckily, IP67 waterproof protection ensures that this device is 100% protected against dust ingress. Moreover, it is capable of being submerged in water no more than 1 metre deep. I wouldn’t suggest doing this, but it is reassuring, nonetheless. This high rating gave me confidence that the CX810 camera would last the British summer and the random weather we endure.
The metal casing creates a professional finish that is great to look at. Additionally, the in-built elements are nicely streamlined without bulking the camera out too much. The mount has a stiff ball joint to adjust the housing and the wall mount has 3 screw points. The wiring is IP67-rated, but I recommend hiding the connections to improve your security. Finally, the Micro-SD slot is hidden behind a plate to deter would-be vandals or thieves.
Is the CX810 camera worth it?
There are plenty of amazing cameras to pick from. Yet, I cannot look past the quality of the CX810 camera. Reolink has produced a spectacular home security option that delivers high-end recordings whilst being user-friendly. What’s more, the integrated app is simple to use and I love how easy the whole system is to set up. Accordingly, it is a no-brainer and I recommend buying it here!
(More information on Reolink can be found here!)
(Full disclosure! Reolink provided a sample for an unbiased and free review!)
