Community Forums

harryjr · 01-09-2025, 01:06 PM

I've been doing research and am now more confused than when I started. So I need input from people smarter than me.

Looking for a camera security system to monitor the yard when on the road and yard and RV when home.
1. Wireless to the home wifi.
2. 4K with night vision.
3. Solar to extend the battery life. Becoming less fond of ladder climbing.
4. Motion detection.
5. Notification and ability to live monitor and review history on cell phones.
6. Would prefer not to have a monthly subscription, contract, or cloud storage. Niece got really burned on her father's ADT acccount when he died. "Dad died? Too bad. You now own the contract and the balance."

Am I looking for the unicorn system?

There seem to be a lot of 4 camera (decent quality?) systems in the $600-$800 range. But which one? Lorex, Blink, Aosu, Eufy, Wyze. The reviews on each are all over the place.

Any input appreciated.

OMMM4747 · 01-09-2025, 02:04 PM

Yes, there is a dizzying array of options.

I settled on a combination of Backstreet Surveillance (BSS) and SimpliSafe (SS) for the home and SimpliSafe only for the RV. Both can be stand-alone or you can opt for a paid monitored service. Backstreet Surveillance has a wide range of cameras including Wi-Fi. Both have a phone app to view cameras (Wi-Fi service required). Both have motion detection except that w/BSS motion only starts the recording process and SS alerts me via the phone app.

With BSS I opted for a 3-wk DVR that includes a cloud option if you so choose. I have no recording capability w/SS and leave the recording to BSS, but my phone alerts me if it detects motion, I can view the app, and then call the police if required. I also have water leak, smoke & CO, and motion detectors w/SS in the home and RV. The bottom line is that if anything happens anywhere, I'll know it.

Use Google to search both companies. Been using them for over 6 years. Both have great customer support. 100% satisfied.

Good luck

RVfixit · 01-09-2025, 04:24 PM

I use the Ring cameras. I have them inside and outside of my home as well as portable cameras for my RV when I go out exploring. The cameras are internet based and can be viewed anywhere at anytime but you will need to subscribe to the recording service if you want to look back and review things. The good thing about the offsite recording is that the recorder can't be tampered with. I can't remember what the cost is but it isn't much. The cameras themselves are pricey but you can find them on sale frequently. I paid anywhere from $50 to $150 for the solar powered models. I.ve had them for about 5 years now with no issues.

As already mentioned, lots and lots of choices but so far, the Rings have been great!

Good Luck and Safe Travels!

Steve W8IZ · 01-09-2025, 06:48 PM

I use both Ring and Blink cameras. Rock solid and I know when anyone is around the box. Recommended. I have two Ring cameras with solar set up in Galveston watching my house being built. They have been rock solid on solar for a year. Once that house is up I will be installing Ring solar-powered cameras all over the place. I might also do Blink as have both in Ohio and on the RV.