I find cameras bolted onto my home supremely useful, although maybe not for the reasons I’m expected to. Yes, I care whether a camera reliably detects that someone is on my porch, but it’s not about break-ins—I mostly want to know when my packages have been delivered. Otherwise, I want a security camera to reliably record, be easy to use, last a long time on a charge, and not need a cloud subscription to work. So far, after more than a week with the Reolink Altas, the battery-powered Wi-Fi camera fits that bill.
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In the world of smart home cameras, Reolink tends to get overlooked for more consumer-targeted options. A lot of its cameras have all the charm of a pawn shop CCTV surveiller. But the $149.99 Altas, a slightly less fancy version of the pan-and-tilt Altas PT Ultra, has a friendlier, less utilitarian look. Best of all, it doesn’t need the internet to be good.
Reolink Altas The Reolink Altas security camera has the trappings of a big brand, and no cloud subscription is required. Pros High-quality video
High-quality video Fast, stable Wi-Fi
Fast, stable Wi-Fi Easy setup with multiple installation options
Easy setup with multiple installation options Local storage
Local storage Works without an internet connection
Works without an internet connection Includes a solar panel Cons Very conspicuous
Very conspicuous Local video streaming requires extra hardware
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