By Todd Bernhard on Thu, 08/22/2019
I reviewed the Reolink Go a while back, and while I liked it, I don't have a remote property that requires a cellular plan for transmitting videos. So I was interested in the more affordable Wi-Fi-based model, and the folks at Reolink asked me to try their Argus Eco ($74.99). It's a lot more affordable, and there's no ongoing plan required. You can provide your own microSD card, up to 64 GB, for storage or leverage Reolink's cloud service. The company has a free plan and reasonably priced offerings if you want to store recordings beyond seven days. The same companion app works with all of the company's cameras, so you could mix and match.
Related: Review: Affordable Security Cameras for Inside Your Smart Home
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As with the Reolink Go, the Argus Eco sports a heavy-duty construction and can be powered by either wired or solar using the $25 solar panel option. I liked that the connect to the microUSB port is protected from the elements, something competing cameras don't always pay attention to. The recording quality is good, offering 1080p with night vision. and the app offers live viewing and two-way audio. However, the folks at Reolink recommend that users leverage the motion sensing and alert capabilities rather than live streaming 24/7.
You can even integrate the camera with Alexa or Google Home, so you can request to view a live feed on a smart home device with a display. The battery is non-removable; but if that's an issue, Reolink also sells the Argus 2, which does offer removable batteries. That would make sense if you don't have a source of sunlight and cannot run the long microUSB cable to a source of power.
Pros
- Heavy-duty construction
- Wired or solar-powered options
- 1080p with night vision
- Cloud and microSD storage
- Companion app with live viewing and two-way audio
Cons
- Non-removable battery (available with Argus 2)
- Not meant for 24/7 transmission, just record and alert based on motion sensing
- Solar panel sold separately
Final Verdict
The Argus Eco is one of a nice variety of outdoor cameras from Reolink, which should meet your needs.
