Reolink cameras have become a popular choice for home and business security due to their high-quality video, motion detection, and affordable prices. One of the most common questions asked by potential buyers is whether Reolink cameras record all the time. In this article, we will delve into the recording capabilities of Reolink cameras, exploring their various modes and settings to help you understand how they work.
Understanding Reolink Camera Recording Modes
Reolink cameras offer several recording modes, allowing you to customize how and when your camera records video. The three main recording modes are:
Continuous Recording
Continuous recording, also known as 24/7 recording, allows your Reolink camera to record video continuously, without any interruptions. This mode is ideal for situations where you need to monitor a specific area constantly, such as a store entrance or a parking lot. However, it’s essential to note that continuous recording can consume a significant amount of storage space, especially if you’re recording high-quality video.
Motion Detection Recording
Motion detection recording is a popular mode among Reolink camera users. This mode allows your camera to record video only when motion is detected within its field of view. This feature helps reduce storage space consumption and makes it easier to review footage, as you’ll only have to look at clips where motion was detected.
Scheduled Recording
Scheduled recording allows you to set specific times for your Reolink camera to record video. For example, you can set your camera to record video only during business hours or when you’re away from home. This mode is useful for situations where you don’t need to monitor a specific area constantly.
Reolink Camera Recording Settings
In addition to the recording modes mentioned above, Reolink cameras also offer various recording settings that allow you to customize how your camera records video. Some of these settings include:
Resolution and Frame Rate
Reolink cameras allow you to adjust the resolution and frame rate of your recorded video. A higher resolution and frame rate will result in higher-quality video, but will also consume more storage space.
Bitrate and Compression
The bitrate and compression settings on your Reolink camera can also impact the quality and size of your recorded video. A higher bitrate will result in higher-quality video, but will also increase the file size.
Pre-Recording and Post-Recording
Some Reolink cameras offer pre-recording and post-recording features, which allow you to capture video before and after motion is detected. This feature can be useful for capturing the entire event, rather than just the moment when motion was detected.
Reolink Camera Storage Options
Reolink cameras offer various storage options, including:
Local Storage
Reolink cameras can store recorded video locally on a microSD card or an internal hard drive. The storage capacity will depend on the specific camera model and the size of the microSD card or hard drive.
Cloud Storage
Reolink also offers cloud storage options, which allow you to store recorded video remotely. This feature is useful for situations where you need to access your recorded video from multiple locations.
Reolink Camera Power and Connectivity
Reolink cameras can be powered using a variety of methods, including:
Wired Power
Most Reolink cameras can be powered using a wired connection, which provides a stable and reliable power source.
Battery Power
Some Reolink cameras are battery-powered, which makes them ideal for situations where a wired connection is not possible.
Wireless Connectivity
Reolink cameras can connect to the internet using Wi-Fi or Ethernet, allowing you to access your recorded video remotely.
Reolink Camera Recording Time
The recording time of a Reolink camera will depend on various factors, including the recording mode, resolution, and storage capacity. Here are some approximate recording times for a Reolink camera:
| Recording Mode | Resolution | Storage Capacity | Recording Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Continuous Recording | 1080p | 64GB | Up to 10 days |
| Motion Detection Recording | 1080p | 64GB | Up to 30 days |
| Scheduled Recording | 1080p | 64GB | Up to 20 days |
Conclusion
Reolink cameras offer various recording modes and settings that allow you to customize how and when your camera records video. While Reolink cameras can record continuously, it’s essential to consider the storage space consumption and the specific needs of your surveillance system. By understanding the recording capabilities of your Reolink camera, you can optimize your surveillance system to meet your specific needs.
In summary, Reolink cameras can record all the time, but it’s crucial to consider the recording mode, resolution, and storage capacity to ensure that you have enough storage space and that your camera is recording video effectively.
Do Reolink cameras record continuously?
Reolink cameras can record continuously, but it depends on the specific model and settings. Some Reolink cameras have a continuous recording feature that allows them to record 24/7, while others may only record motion-detected events or scheduled recordings. It’s essential to check the specifications of your Reolink camera model to determine its recording capabilities.
Continuous recording can be useful for capturing all events, but it also requires more storage space and may lead to faster memory card wear. If you choose to record continuously, make sure you have enough storage capacity and consider using a larger memory card or external storage options.
What is the difference between continuous recording and motion detection recording?
Continuous recording and motion detection recording are two different recording modes available on Reolink cameras. Continuous recording captures all events 24/7, while motion detection recording only captures events when motion is detected. Motion detection recording is useful for capturing specific events and conserving storage space, but it may miss some events if the motion detection algorithm is not sensitive enough.
On the other hand, continuous recording captures all events, but it requires more storage space and may lead to faster memory card wear. The choice between continuous recording and motion detection recording depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you want to capture all events, continuous recording may be the better option. However, if you want to conserve storage space and only capture specific events, motion detection recording may be the better choice.
Can I customize the recording schedule on my Reolink camera?
Yes, you can customize the recording schedule on your Reolink camera. Reolink cameras allow you to set a custom recording schedule based on your specific needs. You can set the camera to record continuously, record only during specific times of the day, or record only when motion is detected. You can also set the camera to record at specific intervals, such as every hour or every 30 minutes.
Customizing the recording schedule can help you conserve storage space and ensure that you capture the events that matter most to you. For example, you can set the camera to record only during business hours or when you’re away from home. You can also set the camera to record continuously during specific times of the day, such as at night or during peak hours.
How much storage space do I need for continuous recording?
The amount of storage space needed for continuous recording depends on several factors, including the resolution of the camera, the frame rate, and the compression algorithm used. Generally, higher resolution cameras and higher frame rates require more storage space. Additionally, the type of compression algorithm used can also affect the storage space required.
As a general rule, it’s recommended to have at least 128GB of storage space for continuous recording. However, this can vary depending on your specific needs and the specifications of your Reolink camera. It’s essential to check the specifications of your camera and calculate the storage space required based on your specific needs. You can also consider using external storage options, such as a NAS or cloud storage, to expand your storage capacity.
Can I use external storage options with my Reolink camera?
Yes, you can use external storage options with your Reolink camera. Reolink cameras support various external storage options, including NAS, cloud storage, and external hard drives. Using external storage options can help you expand your storage capacity and ensure that you have enough space to store your recordings.
External storage options can also provide additional benefits, such as remote access and data redundancy. For example, you can access your recordings remotely using a NAS or cloud storage, and you can also set up data redundancy to ensure that your recordings are safe in case of a hardware failure. It’s essential to check the specifications of your Reolink camera to determine which external storage options are supported.
Will continuous recording affect the battery life of my Reolink camera?
Yes, continuous recording can affect the battery life of your Reolink camera. Continuous recording requires more power than motion detection recording or scheduled recordings, which can lead to faster battery drain. The battery life of your Reolink camera will depend on several factors, including the type of battery used, the resolution of the camera, and the recording mode.
If you plan to use continuous recording, it’s essential to consider the battery life of your Reolink camera. You may need to recharge the battery more frequently or consider using a power adapter to ensure continuous power supply. You can also consider using a Reolink camera with a longer battery life or a camera that supports solar power or other alternative power sources.
Can I view live footage and recorded videos remotely with my Reolink camera?
Yes, you can view live footage and recorded videos remotely with your Reolink camera. Reolink cameras support remote viewing through the Reolink app, which allows you to access your camera’s live feed and recorded videos from anywhere in the world. You can also receive motion detection alerts and notifications remotely, which can help you stay informed about events at your home or business.
Remote viewing requires a stable internet connection and a compatible device, such as a smartphone or tablet. You can also set up remote viewing using a web browser, which allows you to access your camera’s live feed and recorded videos from any device with an internet connection. It’s essential to check the specifications of your Reolink camera to determine which remote viewing options are supported.