CNET's key takeaways
When I tested the Blink Outdoor 4, it was one of the first battery-powered models I had tried from the Blink security brand and, after testing dozens of outdoor cameras from different brands, I wasn't sure what to expect. Yes, Blink makes lofty claims that its lithium AA batteries last a ridiculously long time, but I've heard marketing lingo like that before. This compact wireless cam, however, stayed posted on my fence through all four seasons and well beyond as I waited -- and waited and waited -- for those batteries to die.
While my Blink Outdoor 4 model didn't quite reach the full two years that Blink rates its wireless camera batteries at, a year and a half far surpasses any wireless camera with a rechargeable battery like Ring or Nest use. In my experience those rechargeable batteries last several months at the most before you need to bring them in for a recharge or switch them out with a new battery pack.
That recharging gets annoying during cold winters or for wireless cameras that are posted out of reach and require a ladder to switch batteries out. And if your cams activate all the time, batteries run out even faster. I don't mind leaning out to grab the video doorbell for a quick recharge, but for other outdoor cameras it turns into an unwanted -- and random -- task.
Blink, meanwhile, promises long-lasting batteries that you replace, not recharge, when the time comes. Those new batteries cost $4 to $5, which works out to about 22 cents a month for the convenience of not bothering about it. I've found that to be a particularly helpful option for an outdoor camera I can set up and leave to do its job -- giving me one less thing to worry about.
My experience with the Blink Outdoor 4
The Blink Outdoor 4 is fully wireless and very compact for an outdoor cam. CNET/Tyler Lacoma
I think of the Blink Outdoor 4 as a "jack of all trades" outdoor camera, which is why it has earned a spot on my best picks for home security cameras as best camera for battery life. I often find myself recommending it for someone who wants an all-purpose camera at a fairly affordable price of $100.
From the 1080p resolution and Alexa support to the two-way audio and motion detection, the Outdoor 4 does a little of everything in a compact, weather-resistant design. But where it really shines is that extended battery life.
Battery options that keep lasting
... continue reading