Remember when Synology was only famous for its NAS? Yeah, me neither. Among all the server brands discussed here at NAS Compares, few have created such a diverse portfolio of home and business solutions, covering a wide array of peripherals and accessories, as Synology has. Although their CCTV and security application, Surveillance Station, has been available on their NAS devices for decades, it’s only in the past few years that we’ve seen the brand introduce their own range of surveillance cameras. The new CC400W is the latest addition to their lineup and, although it might look arguably less enterprise-grade compared to the BC500 and TC500 POE high-protection models, the CC400W doesn’t seem to be a slouch either! Targeting indoor use, this multi-surface deployable camera comes with impressively sleek integration with Synology Surveillance Station, no need for a camera license, industry-approved encryption, and wireless connectivity. Indeed, this was the kind of camera I hoped Synology would release in the first phase of their product series launch. Still, better late than never! Today, we’re going to review the new CC400W surveillance camera from Synology NAS and help you decide whether you can trust it with the security of your data and assets!

Note – Video Review Available NOW on YouTube HERE

Synology CC400W Camera Review – Quick Conclusion

The Synology CC400W, when viewed in isolation, stands out as a slightly above-average surveillance camera. It may not be at the cutting edge of technology, but it doesn’t aspire to be. Instead, Synology is focusing on expanding its camera lineup to complement its well-established surveillance NAS platform, aiming to offer robust and seamlessly integrated products rather than chasing the latest trends. The commitment to ensuring compatibility with third-party cameras while expanding its own range, including the CC400W, BC500, and TC500, is a smart move. It appeals to users seeking a unified first-party surveillance solution that minimizes compatibility issues and security vulnerabilities. One of the CC400W’s strengths is its honesty about capabilities, a refreshing approach in a market often dominated by overhyped claims. This camera clearly delineates its role in the surveillance setup, highlighting a balanced workload between the camera and the Synology NAS. This straightforward integration is likely to attract users looking for a hassle-free surveillance solution. The camera’s enhanced security features, compliance with US certifications, and the absence of a requirement for a surveillance camera license further contribute to its appeal as a reliable, if not revolutionary, product designed for long-term use.

However, there are aspects of the CC400W that could be improved. Given its exclusive design for use with Synology systems and services, the absence of an included SD card at its price point is a notable oversight. Additionally, a two-year warranty feels somewhat limited, especially considering the camera’s likely deployment in business settings for five to ten years, exclusively within Synology’s ecosystem. Moreover, there seems to be a gap in understanding among users regarding the camera’s object detection capabilities versus object recognition and analysis—a distinction Synology could clarify more effectively. Despite these drawbacks, for those looking to expand their Synology surveillance setup without the complexities of camera licenses, desiring quick setup and integration under a single brand, the CC400W confidently meets these needs.

SOFTWARE - 10/10

HARDWARE - 8/10

PERFORMANCE - 8/10

PRICE - 8/10

VALUE - 8/10

8.4

PROS

Fast setup and near seamless integration with Synology NAS hardware
The audio in and out is as clear as a whistle No need for a camera license simplifies everything!
Sturdy and novel mounting base
The wireless connectivity was one of the smoothest setups I have experienced in a surveillance camera
Dedicated disconnection alerts in conjunction with SD card Edge recording works seamlessly!
Remarkably well built, compact yet sturdy.
The AI assisted object recognition (human and vehicle) although not perfect is still well presented and accessible in Surveillance Station
Camera firmware updates are managed by the NAS smoothly.
Significant certification and encryption standards mean unfettered deployment in US businesses

CONS

Surprisingly expensive given the hardware
Lack of an SD card, despite it being a Synology branded product with Synology services that take advantage of the SD card, at this price!
The two-year warranty seems weirdly short given the context of its deployment. Synology could do better in presenting the difference between their AI object cameras and deep video analysis NVRs, to avoid potential user confusion or disappointment.

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Synology CC400W Camera Review – Presentation

Much like the other cameras in Synology’s lineup, the Synology CC400W arrives in a pleasingly aesthetic external package. Considering that 90% of other surveillance cameras on the market, whether for NVR or DVR systems, tend to arrive in plain, brown packaging with little fanfare, Synology deserves a nod here for their continued effort in the presentation of their solutions. The box sides, adorned with specific information relating to the camera’s specifications and capabilities, represent a step above the usual plain, brown, branded box design afforded to other cameras in the market.

Upon opening the retail package, the camera and accessories are all neatly laid out in individual quadrants. As this is a wireless camera, the range of accessories was always expected to be somewhat limited. Nevertheless, everything is presented very well, and each component bears the Synology branding. It also appears that the majority of the packaging materials are fully recyclable.

Alongside the CC400W itself, the camera comes with a remarkably compact PSU. Designed for exceptionally low power consumption, the diminutive five-watt power adapter reflects this. Furthermore, this adapter connects via a USB Type-C interface, meaning you’re not solely reliant on Synology’s own PSU.

The option to purchase much longer USB Type-C extension cables facilitates greater deployment distance from a power outlet. Additionally, with the right arrangement of five-watt external batteries and solar panels, the feasibility of deploying this camera via solar power is clear, as long as a USB-connected battery point is included in the setup.

While Synology doesn’t directly support this, and the CC400W doesn’t come with its own power bank for USB solar panel support, this does highlight the camera’s low power requirement.

The rest of the accessories are quite standard, including warranty information, first-time setup guidance, details on using the wall bracket and fixings, and instructions for attaching the camera. That’s about it, which is perfectly adequate for this kind of camera.

Anything more could have been unnecessary and potentially wasteful. However, I am a bit disappointed that Synology does not include an SD card of any capacity with these cameras at this price point, given the affordability of SD cards and their utility in Surveillance Station.

Additionally, it seems slightly unfair of Synology to only provide this camera with a 2-year manufacturer’s warranty when their other cameras come with a 3-year warranty. There’s an argument that those cameras were designed for higher outdoor durability and, with POE support in previous releases, they have fewer potential failure points. However, even though the CC400W isn’t exactly a budget camera, for its price point and intended use, it’s surprising that Synology didn’t offer a three-year warranty as they did with other camera releases. Nonetheless, the Surveillance Station software receives effective lifetime support on Synology NAS systems, so there’s no limitation in terms of security updates and feature enhancements.

Overall, the CC400W presents itself as a quite pleasing and well-packaged kit, a cut above many other supported ONVIF cameras used with Surveillance Station, yet not exactly a game-changer. My concerns regarding the lack of an included SD card and the 2-year warranty aside (considering that the majority of budget cameras barely come with a one-year warranty), I’m satisfied with what I find here. Now, let’s focus on the design of the new CC400W camera.

Synology CC400W Camera Review – Design

The Synology CC400W Camera is equipped with a 2.12 mm lens, designed to capture a broad field of view with its 125° horizontal, 72° vertical, and 145° diagonal viewing angles. This wide-angle lens ensures comprehensive coverage of the monitored area, making it ideal for various indoor settings where maximizing the field of view is essential for effective surveillance. The lens’s design aims to provide clear and detailed images across a wide area, enhancing the camera’s utility in security applications.

With an aperture of F2.0, the lens of the Synology CC400W allows for considerable light intake, contributing to the camera’s ability to produce crisp images even in lower light conditions. This feature is particularly beneficial for surveillance in environments with varying lighting, ensuring consistent video quality throughout the day and into the night. The effective aperture supports the camera’s high-resolution HDR video capability, enabling it to capture high-quality footage with balanced exposure in scenes with contrasting light and shadow.

The camera’s lens supports night vision capabilities, utilizing high power infrared LED to illuminate up to 10 meters away. This ensures that the Synology CC400W can provide clear video surveillance in complete darkness, extending its monitoring capabilities to 24/7 operation. The lens, in conjunction with the camera’s infrared capabilities, plays a crucial role in achieving effective night vision, making the CC400W a reliable choice for continuous surveillance needs, regardless of the time of day.

The Synology CC400W Camera not only records live audio as part of its surveillance footage but also allows for the output of custom alarms or direct voice communications through Synology Surveillance Station client services as needed. This functionality is enhanced by an audio sensor that can notify the surveillance setup of noise levels, which can be set permanently or according to a schedule, to preemptively warn of potential intruders. These audio detection alerts, along with physical tampering alerts, add valuable features to the camera’s capabilities, requiring a modern camera for smooth operation. Synology has commendably integrated these services into the camera, reducing reliance on the Synology NAS system to handle all the work.

Underneath a rubber panel at the base of the camera lies a reset button and, more importantly, an SD card slot. While SD card slots are not a novel feature in network cameras, their utility with third-party cameras in Synology’s Surveillance Station is notably limited. However, the SD card slot in the Synology CC400W can be fully utilized for edge recording. This means that in the event of a disconnection from the Synology NAS—due to network failure or system compromise—the camera will continue recording and managing alerts locally on the SD card. Once the connection is restored, it will sync the recordings and alerts back to the NAS. This feature, combined with the Synology C2 cloud recording service, ensures comprehensive protection across various failure scenarios and security threats.

The camera’s base hinge features a 360-degree rotating metal arm, allowing for adjustment across three axes. The base itself is magnetic, simplifying the installation process and significantly easing deployment. Despite its ease of installation and low power consumption, it’s essential to remember this camera still requires a power source, necessitating a USB Type-C outlet or the use of the included five-watt USB PSU. The magnetic base is a notably convenient feature, uncommon in surveillance cameras, and the locking mechanism for the aperture/hinges ensures once positioned, the camera remains securely in place.

The Synology CC400W Camera features an IP65 rating, indicating a high level of protection against dust ingress and water jets, although slightly lower than the BC500 and TC500 models. This rating suggests the camera is not designed for exposure to heavy rain or outdoor elements, emphasizing its suitability for indoor or sheltered outdoor use.

In the realm of government surveillance system installations within the United States, professionals are required to navigate with precision to adhere to specific legal requirements, notably under section 889 of the 2019 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This legislation outlines stringent criteria for video surveillance equipment intended for use on U.S. government properties, prohibiting equipment and services from certain companies deemed a national security risk, including Huawei Technologies Company, ZTE Corporation, Hytera Communications Corporation, Hangzhou Hikvision Digital Technology Company, and Dahua Technology Company. This mandate ensures that only compliant products, which do not incorporate components from these restricted entities, are utilized in sensitive government-related surveillance operations. For security professionals and installers, understanding and adhering to these regulations is crucial when selecting equipment for government projects to ensure legal compliance and maintain national security integrity.

Furthermore, the Trade Agreements Act (TAA) complements the NDAA by enforcing standards for products used in government contracts, requiring them to be produced in the United States or other approved countries. The compliance of security products with both NDAA and TAA is a critical factor for businesses and contractors engaged in federal government projects, signifying that the equipment does not contain components from restricted companies and adheres to trade regulations. The Synology CC400W, with its NDAA and TAA certification, stands as a prime example of a compliant surveillance camera suitable for use in government-related installations. This certification not only ensures adherence to U.S. laws but also positions the CC400W as a viable option for security professionals seeking to fulfill government contracts with confidence in the legality and security of their surveillance technology choices. So, unsurprisingly, the camera’s benefits of NDAA and TAA certification, make it a compliant choice for businesses, especially those dealing with U.S. government contracts. These certifications are crucial in the wake of security concerns and trade disputes, as they ensure the camera meets strict standards required for use in sensitive environments. The CC400W strikes a balance by offering compatibility with Synology’s platform, compliance with important regulatory standards, and moderate affordability for business users.

The design and production quality of the Synology CC400W Camera are commendable. While it’s still a surveillance camera and praise must be relative, it stands out as a compact and easily deployable option for business use. Some might note the absence of an included SD card or a solar panel with an internal battery system as drawbacks, but given its intended use case, these are minor concerns. The focus now shifts to how this camera integrates into your surveillance setup.

Synology CC400W Camera Review – Network Connectivity

The Synology CC400W is tailored specifically for integration with Synology NAS systems, eschewing support for use with third-party NVRs or NAS devices. It boasts wireless network connectivity, supporting dual-band Wi-Fi frequencies of 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, providing a reliable and sufficient range for camera deployment and the maintenance of stable video streams. While recent trends have introduced Wi-Fi 6 surveillance cameras featuring the 6 GHz band, such enhancements are deemed somewhat superfluous in the surveillance domain, where ensuring ample coverage distance remains the primary objective.

Lacking a physical Ethernet connection, the CC400W might deter users seeking a hybrid deployment approach. However, its integration with Synology software streamlines the setup process. Notably, the camera does not require a Synology surveillance camera license for operation in Surveillance Station, allowing users to conserve the two licenses typically included with most Synology NAS systems. This camera’s compatibility facilitates seamless firmware updates and direct control via the Surveillance Station GUI, simplifying long-term management and maintenance compared to third-party camera solutions.

Deployment of the CC400W requires it to reside within the same local area network as the Synology NAS it is configured to record to. This setup may necessitate adjustments to existing VLAN configurations, especially in environments with scattered wireless access points. The absence of a wired connection option could pose challenges for some setups. Configuration is streamlined through the DS cam mobile app for Android and iOS, which automatically detects the camera within the local network, eliminating the need for manual setup. This ease of integration underscores the camera’s designed compatibility with Synology’s ecosystem, offering a hassle-free addition to existing surveillance systems.

During practical evaluation, the CC400W’s performance was tested using a $10, 10-meter USB-C extension cable to extend power delivery distance, demonstrating the camera’s low power requirements and flexible deployment potential. The camera maintained high-quality video transmission even when placed 8 meters away from the nearest wireless access point, ensuring desired bitrate and framerate consistency. The ability to integrate and manage live feeds, archival footage, and AI-driven alerts within Surveillance Station’s monitoring center highlights the CC400W’s seamless operation and contribution to comprehensive surveillance setups, emphasizing its role within Synology’s networked ecosystem.

Synology CC400W Camera Review – Surveillance Station Software Support

Reviewing the Synology CC400W camera without addressing the Synology Surveillance Station software would be incomplete. This camera essentially relies on a Synology NAS and its integrated surveillance software to function. It’s no exaggeration to say that for many, the Surveillance Station software—bundled with every Synology NAS, regardless of size—justifies the entire cost of the system. Offering an enterprise-grade surveillance platform that is both user-friendly and rich in features, Surveillance Station has evolved from a niche add-on to one of Synology’s primary selling points. The software’s accessibility, client support, security, and comprehensive feature set make it a standout, regardless of whether it’s paired with a Synology CC400W camera or a third-party option. To delve into a detailed review of Surveillance Station would significantly extend the length of this article. Fortunately, a comprehensive review of Synology Surveillance Station 9.1 has been previously conducted, available below, a full review on YouTube. This review covers the wide array of features and benefits offered by this surveillance software when used in conjunction with a Synology camera. The Synology CC400W camera is specifically engineered to provide optimal performance with Synology Surveillance Station, the current version being 9.1.1. The camera’s integration with Surveillance Station offers advanced functionality that outshines the features provided by third-party and non-edge-AI-recognition cameras.

The CC400W camera, when paired with Surveillance Station, supports a plethora of services that transform your security experience. It provides access to live camera feed (monitoring center), which can be scaled to accommodate several cameras on screen simultaneously. You can also view live feeds and previous recordings side-by-side on the software.

Additionally, the Surveillance Station allows for privacy mask and watermark applications on the feed.

It also supports the upload of eMaps and integrates with third-party mapping services like Google Maps and OpenMaps.

Surveillance Station isn’t limited to camera support. It also provides control for IP speakers, door controls, and I/O supported peripherals. Users can access the system swiftly and intuitively via a mobile app, and even use their mobile as another surveillance camera feed with Synology Live Cam. Alerts and push notifications can be scheduled for specific events, and the system generates downloadable analytical reports.

The Surveillance Station further extends its functionality with an array of additional add-ons. These range from YouTube Live Streaming and video integrity tools to transaction checking and IFTTT/Webhook services.

It also offers features like motion detection, missing object detection, idle zone monitoring, and foreign object area tagging. Access to the Surveillance Station is conveniently provided through web browsers, desktop clients, and mobile clients, either over the local network or remotely.

One of the key features is the Smart Lapse creation, which lets you truncate long periods of recording into speedy sequences. For example, you can turn a full day’s footage into a few minutes for quick scanning. It also supports cloud recording with Synology C2 Surveillance (available with a free trial, then on a subscription basis).

The Surveillance Station also offers a Home Mode, which allows automated camera schedules to kick in when a defined user exits or enters the premises using WiFi links. More details on these features can be found in our review of Synology Surveillance Station 9.1 on our YouTube channel:

The CC400W camera, paired with Surveillance Station, supports sophisticated AI detection techniques like people detection, vehicle detection, intrusion detection, crowd detection, and loitering detection. It also offers a Smart Search feature that lets you search a predefined area of a recorded feed for specific incidents.

Vehicle Detection – Similar to its capability for human detection, the CC400W camera extends its intelligent recognition to vehicles as well. This feature proves particularly useful in situations when the premises are closed, and an unexpected vehicle enters the vicinity. The surveillance system can be programmed to provide ‘out of hours’ alerts, notifying owners whenever vehicles approach their premises during closed or off hours. It’s an excellent way to ensure the security of your property when you’re not physically present.

Intrusion Detection – The CC400W camera takes intrusion detection a notch higher with its advanced features. Users can draw lines on the feed that can have multiple bend or break points, marking out specific areas as off-limits. This allows the system to monitor if people or vehicles cross into these forbidden zones. Thanks to edge AI recognition, you can customize this feature to fit your needs—for example, allowing an area to be entered by people but not vehicles or vice versa. This level of customization helps create ‘no go’ zones at specific times, further enhancing the security of your premises.

Crowd Detection – The CC400W camera’s recognition capabilities extend beyond just humans and vehicles. It also offers nuanced crowd detection. For instance, the system could be programmed to ignore one or two people in a predefined area. However, if that number increases to five or six, it could trigger an alert. This crowd detection feature enables you to set thresholds for alerts based on the number of people in a particular area, ensuring you’re notified only when necessary.

Loitering Detection – Similar to crowd detection, loitering detection is another impressive feature of the CC400W camera. This function enables the camera to alert you when an individual or vehicle remains within a predefined area for an unusually long period. People just passing by won’t trigger an alert, but if they loiter around for a while, the system will notify you. This helps you keep an eye on any potential suspicious activity around your premises.

Smart Search – This feature significantly enhances the surveillance process by allowing you to focus on a specific area within recorded feeds. For instance, you can set the system to alert you of any movement, person, or vehicle in a predetermined spot, such as a door, desk, or window. By combining Smart Search with Smart Time Lapse, you can sift through weeks of recordings in a fraction of the time, automatically identifying any noteworthy events in a particular spot. It allows you to retroactively apply advanced surveillance parameters, even if they weren’t set up at the time of recording.

While the CC400W camera is impressive, it’s important to note that it does not support database storage. It cannot store a reference of specific people or faces and vehicle registrations for future comparison when they appear in the feed, allowing alerts to be scaled accordingly. To access this kind of functionality, a DVA system such as the Synology DVA1622 2-Bay or DVA3221 4 Bay is necessary. Similarly, the CC400W camera cannot keep numerical track of the number of people or objects crossing the set intrusion lines, making it impossible to maintain an accurate count—for instance, knowing who is in or out during a fire alarm. Thus, while the CC400W camera provides a range of advanced features, it has its limitations.

Recordings are sent via HTTPS/SRTP encryption to the NAS, are encrypted when recorded to the local memory card, and remain encrypted when backed up on the Surveillance C2 cloud service. Furthermore, the previously mentioned Synology CC400W camera is NDAA and TAA compliant, which gives it a distinct edge over lower-priced Chinese cameras. In conclusion, while the CC400W Camera does not match up to more expensive Deep Video Analysis systems like the DVA162/DVA3221, its exclusive features and exemption from surveillance licenses make it a compelling choice.

Surveillance Station boasts a vast array of features and services, many of which are either managed by the system itself or utilized in collaboration with the security camera. The integration of AI services with the CC400W camera opens up additional possibilities, although these are somewhat limited when compared to the capabilities unlocked with Synology’s DVA (Deep Video Analysis) NAS units. The CC400W can recognize humans and vehicles, create paths and exclusion zones, and assist in AI-driven searches to accelerate archive retrievals. However, lacking an onboard AI database means it cannot perform more complex AI tasks that require immediate access to an extensive, regularly updated system database—such as people counting, license plate recognition, and facial recognition. These advanced functionalities necessitate a DVA NAS and are crucial to consider when setting up a surveillance system aimed at recognition or identification, as these tasks require different system resources and camera capabilities.

What IS and ISN’T Possible with the Synology Camera AI-Assisted Services?

Now, despite the Synology CC400W, BC500 and TC500 Surveillance Cameras arriving with onboard hardware for AI-powered recognition tasks, it is worth highlighting that using them is NOT the same as using the Deep Video Analysis (DVA) series of NAS servers in Synology’s portfolio. These operations are managed from inside the camera and the alerts are handled and actioned by the NAS after the camera sends the appropriate alert – and these cameras so NOT have the same level of hardware as the DVA1622 and DVA3221 inside each of them! Additionally, whereas the DVA series manages multiple tasks internally from multiple cameras, only using the camera hardware as a life ‘feed’, these cameras cannot run deeper AI tasks that involve counting, internal database management and keeping records of AI referral data internally – they do not have the storage or processing power for that. So more complex people counting and specific facial recognition will not be immediately available to your PLUS series Diskstation, just because you are using the BC500, CC400W and/or TC500. Here is a breakdown of the services available to users with either Synology Cameras or a Synology DVA NAS:

AI Service	Case Use	BC500 & TC500	DVA1622 & DVA3221
People / Vehicle/Loitering Detection	Reduce false alarm and protect against loitering	YES	YES
Crowd Detection	Monitor public safety or quality of service	YES	YES
Intrusion Detection	Protect perimeter and restricted area	YES	YES
Instant Search	Investigate incidents quickly after they happen	YES	NO
People/Vehicle Counting	Calculate occupancy in shops, food courts, or parking lots with aggregated counting of people and vehicles entering and leaving	NO	YES
Face Recognition	Automate personnel identification and prevent unauthorized access	NO	YES
License Plate Recognition	Identify license plates and set up triggers based on configurable allow or block lists	NO	YES

If you are unaware of the Synology Deep Video Analysis NAS system, you can find out more about it in the video reviews of the hardware and software below from our YouTube channel:

Synology CC400W Camera Review – Conclusion

The Synology CC400W, when viewed in isolation, stands out as a slightly above-average surveillance camera. It may not be at the cutting edge of technology, but it doesn’t aspire to be. Instead, Synology is focusing on expanding its camera lineup to complement its well-established surveillance NAS platform, aiming to offer robust and seamlessly integrated products rather than chasing the latest trends. The commitment to ensuring compatibility with third-party cameras while expanding its own range, including the CC400W, BC500, and TC500, is a smart move. It appeals to users seeking a unified first-party surveillance solution that minimizes compatibility issues and security vulnerabilities.

One of the CC400W’s strengths is its honesty about capabilities, a refreshing approach in a market often dominated by overhyped claims. This camera clearly delineates its role in the surveillance setup, highlighting a balanced workload between the camera and the Synology NAS. This straightforward integration is likely to attract users looking for a hassle-free surveillance solution. The camera’s enhanced security features, compliance with US certifications, and the absence of a requirement for a surveillance camera license further contribute to its appeal as a reliable, if not revolutionary, product designed for long-term use.

However, there are aspects of the CC400W that could be improved. Given its exclusive design for use with Synology systems and services, the absence of an included SD card at its price point is a notable oversight. Additionally, a two-year warranty feels somewhat limited, especially considering the camera’s likely deployment in business settings for five to ten years, exclusively within Synology’s ecosystem. Moreover, there seems to be a gap in understanding among users regarding the camera’s object detection capabilities versus object recognition and analysis—a distinction Synology could clarify more effectively. Despite these drawbacks, for those looking to expand their Synology surveillance setup without the complexities of camera licenses, desiring quick setup and integration under a single brand, the CC400W confidently meets these needs.

Synology CC400W PROS	Synology CC400W CONS
Fast setup and near seamless integration with Synology NAS hardware The audio in and out is as clear as a whistle No need for a camera license simplifies everything! Sturdy and novel mounting base The wireless connectivity was one of the smoothest setups I have experienced in a surveillance camera Dedicated disconnection alerts in conjunction with SD card Edge recording works seamlessly! Remarkably well built, compact yet sturdy. The AI assisted object recognition (human and vehicle) although not perfect is still well presented and accessible in Surveillance Station Camera firmware updates are managed by the NAS smoothly. Significant certification and encryption standards mean unfettered deployment in US businesses	Surprisingly expensive given the hardware Lack of an SD card, despite it being a Synology branded product with Synology services that take advantage of the SD card, at this price! The two-year warranty seems weirdly short given the context of its deployment. Synology could do better in presenting the difference between their AI object cameras and deep video analysis NVRs, to avoid potential user confusion or disappointment.

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Remember when Synology was only famous for its NAS? Yeah, me neither. Among all the server brands discussed here at NAS Compares, few have created such a diverse portfolio of home and business solutions, covering a wide array of peripherals and accessories, as Synology has. Although their CCTV and security application, Surveillance Station, has been available on their NAS devices for decades, it’s only in the past few years that we’ve seen the brand introduce their own range of surveillance cameras. The new CC400W is the latest addition to their lineup and, although it might look arguably less enterprise-grade compared to the BC500 and TC500 POE high-protection models, the CC400W doesn’t seem to be a slouch either! Targeting indoor use, this multi-surface deployable camera comes with impressively sleek integration with Synology Surveillance Station, no need for a camera license, industry-approved encryption, and wireless connectivity. Indeed, this was the kind of camera I hoped Synology would release in the first phase of their product series launch. Still, better late than never! Today, we’re going to review the new CC400W surveillance camera from Synology NAS and help you decide whether you can trust it with the security of your data and assets!

Note – Video Review Available NOW on YouTube HERE

Synology CC400W Camera Review – Quick Conclusion

The Synology CC400W, when viewed in isolation, stands out as a slightly above-average surveillance camera. It may not be at the cutting edge of technology, but it doesn’t aspire to be. Instead, Synology is focusing on expanding its camera lineup to complement its well-established surveillance NAS platform, aiming to offer robust and seamlessly integrated products rather than chasing the latest trends. The commitment to ensuring compatibility with third-party cameras while expanding its own range, including the CC400W, BC500, and TC500, is a smart move. It appeals to users seeking a unified first-party surveillance solution that minimizes compatibility issues and security vulnerabilities. One of the CC400W’s strengths is its honesty about capabilities, a refreshing approach in a market often dominated by overhyped claims. This camera clearly delineates its role in the surveillance setup, highlighting a balanced workload between the camera and the Synology NAS. This straightforward integration is likely to attract users looking for a hassle-free surveillance solution. The camera’s enhanced security features, compliance with US certifications, and the absence of a requirement for a surveillance camera license further contribute to its appeal as a reliable, if not revolutionary, product designed for long-term use.

However, there are aspects of the CC400W that could be improved. Given its exclusive design for use with Synology systems and services, the absence of an included SD card at its price point is a notable oversight. Additionally, a two-year warranty feels somewhat limited, especially considering the camera’s likely deployment in business settings for five to ten years, exclusively within Synology’s ecosystem. Moreover, there seems to be a gap in understanding among users regarding the camera’s object detection capabilities versus object recognition and analysis—a distinction Synology could clarify more effectively. Despite these drawbacks, for those looking to expand their Synology surveillance setup without the complexities of camera licenses, desiring quick setup and integration under a single brand, the CC400W confidently meets these needs.

SOFTWARE - 10/10

HARDWARE - 8/10

PERFORMANCE - 8/10

PRICE - 8/10

VALUE - 8/10

8.4

PROS

Fast setup and near seamless integration with Synology NAS hardware
The audio in and out is as clear as a whistle No need for a camera license simplifies everything!
Sturdy and novel mounting base
The wireless connectivity was one of the smoothest setups I have experienced in a surveillance camera
Dedicated disconnection alerts in conjunction with SD card Edge recording works seamlessly!
Remarkably well built, compact yet sturdy.
The AI assisted object recognition (human and vehicle) although not perfect is still well presented and accessible in Surveillance Station
Camera firmware updates are managed by the NAS smoothly.
Significant certification and encryption standards mean unfettered deployment in US businesses

CONS

Surprisingly expensive given the hardware
Lack of an SD card, despite it being a Synology branded product with Synology services that take advantage of the SD card, at this price!
The two-year warranty seems weirdly short given the context of its deployment. Synology could do better in presenting the difference between their AI object cameras and deep video analysis NVRs, to avoid potential user confusion or disappointment.

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Synology CC400W Camera Review – Presentation

Much like the other cameras in Synology’s lineup, the Synology CC400W arrives in a pleasingly aesthetic external package. Considering that 90% of other surveillance cameras on the market, whether for NVR or DVR systems, tend to arrive in plain, brown packaging with little fanfare, Synology deserves a nod here for their continued effort in the presentation of their solutions. The box sides, adorned with specific information relating to the camera’s specifications and capabilities, represent a step above the usual plain, brown, branded box design afforded to other cameras in the market.

Upon opening the retail package, the camera and accessories are all neatly laid out in individual quadrants. As this is a wireless camera, the range of accessories was always expected to be somewhat limited. Nevertheless, everything is presented very well, and each component bears the Synology branding. It also appears that the majority of the packaging materials are fully recyclable.

Alongside the CC400W itself, the camera comes with a remarkably compact PSU. Designed for exceptionally low power consumption, the diminutive five-watt power adapter reflects this. Furthermore, this adapter connects via a USB Type-C interface, meaning you’re not solely reliant on Synology’s own PSU.

The option to purchase much longer USB Type-C extension cables facilitates greater deployment distance from a power outlet. Additionally, with the right arrangement of five-watt external batteries and solar panels, the feasibility of deploying this camera via solar power is clear, as long as a USB-connected battery point is included in the setup.

While Synology doesn’t directly support this, and the CC400W doesn’t come with its own power bank for USB solar panel support, this does highlight the camera’s low power requirement.

The rest of the accessories are quite standard, including warranty information, first-time setup guidance, details on using the wall bracket and fixings, and instructions for attaching the camera. That’s about it, which is perfectly adequate for this kind of camera.

Anything more could have been unnecessary and potentially wasteful. However, I am a bit disappointed that Synology does not include an SD card of any capacity with these cameras at this price point, given the affordability of SD cards and their utility in Surveillance Station.

Additionally, it seems slightly unfair of Synology to only provide this camera with a 2-year manufacturer’s warranty when their other cameras come with a 3-year warranty. There’s an argument that those cameras were designed for higher outdoor durability and, with POE support in previous releases, they have fewer potential failure points. However, even though the CC400W isn’t exactly a budget camera, for its price point and intended use, it’s surprising that Synology didn’t offer a three-year warranty as they did with other camera releases. Nonetheless, the Surveillance Station software receives effective lifetime support on Synology NAS systems, so there’s no limitation in terms of security updates and feature enhancements.

Overall, the CC400W presents itself as a quite pleasing and well-packaged kit, a cut above many other supported ONVIF cameras used with Surveillance Station, yet not exactly a game-changer. My concerns regarding the lack of an included SD card and the 2-year warranty aside (considering that the majority of budget cameras barely come with a one-year warranty), I’m satisfied with what I find here. Now, let’s focus on the design of the new CC400W camera.

Synology CC400W Camera Review – Design

The Synology CC400W Camera is equipped with a 2.12 mm lens, designed to capture a broad field of view with its 125° horizontal, 72° vertical, and 145° diagonal viewing angles. This wide-angle lens ensures comprehensive coverage of the monitored area, making it ideal for various indoor settings where maximizing the field of view is essential for effective surveillance. The lens’s design aims to provide clear and detailed images across a wide area, enhancing the camera’s utility in security applications.

With an aperture of F2.0, the lens of the Synology CC400W allows for considerable light intake, contributing to the camera’s ability to produce crisp images even in lower light conditions. This feature is particularly beneficial for surveillance in environments with varying lighting, ensuring consistent video quality throughout the day and into the night. The effective aperture supports the camera’s high-resolution HDR video capability, enabling it to capture high-quality footage with balanced exposure in scenes with contrasting light and shadow.

The camera’s lens supports night vision capabilities, utilizing high power infrared LED to illuminate up to 10 meters away. This ensures that the Synology CC400W can provide clear video surveillance in complete darkness, extending its monitoring capabilities to 24/7 operation. The lens, in conjunction with the camera’s infrared capabilities, plays a crucial role in achieving effective night vision, making the CC400W a reliable choice for continuous surveillance needs, regardless of the time of day.

The Synology CC400W Camera not only records live audio as part of its surveillance footage but also allows for the output of custom alarms or direct voice communications through Synology Surveillance Station client services as needed. This functionality is enhanced by an audio sensor that can notify the surveillance setup of noise levels, which can be set permanently or according to a schedule, to preemptively warn of potential intruders. These audio detection alerts, along with physical tampering alerts, add valuable features to the camera’s capabilities, requiring a modern camera for smooth operation. Synology has commendably integrated these services into the camera, reducing reliance on the Synology NAS system to handle all the work.

Underneath a rubber panel at the base of the camera lies a reset button and, more importantly, an SD card slot. While SD card slots are not a novel feature in network cameras, their utility with third-party cameras in Synology’s Surveillance Station is notably limited. However, the SD card slot in the Synology CC400W can be fully utilized for edge recording. This means that in the event of a disconnection from the Synology NAS—due to network failure or system compromise—the camera will continue recording and managing alerts locally on the SD card. Once the connection is restored, it will sync the recordings and alerts back to the NAS. This feature, combined with the Synology C2 cloud recording service, ensures comprehensive protection across various failure scenarios and security threats.

The camera’s base hinge features a 360-degree rotating metal arm, allowing for adjustment across three axes. The base itself is magnetic, simplifying the installation process and significantly easing deployment. Despite its ease of installation and low power consumption, it’s essential to remember this camera still requires a power source, necessitating a USB Type-C outlet or the use of the included five-watt USB PSU. The magnetic base is a notably convenient feature, uncommon in surveillance cameras, and the locking mechanism for the aperture/hinges ensures once positioned, the camera remains securely in place.

The Synology CC400W Camera features an IP65 rating, indicating a high level of protection against dust ingress and water jets, although slightly lower than the BC500 and TC500 models. This rating suggests the camera is not designed for exposure to heavy rain or outdoor elements, emphasizing its suitability for indoor or sheltered outdoor use.

In the realm of government surveillance system installations within the United States, professionals are required to navigate with precision to adhere to specific legal requirements, notably under section 889 of the 2019 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This legislation outlines stringent criteria for video surveillance equipment intended for use on U.S. government properties, prohibiting equipment and services from certain companies deemed a national security risk, including Huawei Technologies Company, ZTE Corporation, Hytera Communications Corporation, Hangzhou Hikvision Digital Technology Company, and Dahua Technology Company. This mandate ensures that only compliant products, which do not incorporate components from these restricted entities, are utilized in sensitive government-related surveillance operations. For security professionals and installers, understanding and adhering to these regulations is crucial when selecting equipment for government projects to ensure legal compliance and maintain national security integrity.

Furthermore, the Trade Agreements Act (TAA) complements the NDAA by enforcing standards for products used in government contracts, requiring them to be produced in the United States or other approved countries. The compliance of security products with both NDAA and TAA is a critical factor for businesses and contractors engaged in federal government projects, signifying that the equipment does not contain components from restricted companies and adheres to trade regulations. The Synology CC400W, with its NDAA and TAA certification, stands as a prime example of a compliant surveillance camera suitable for use in government-related installations. This certification not only ensures adherence to U.S. laws but also positions the CC400W as a viable option for security professionals seeking to fulfill government contracts with confidence in the legality and security of their surveillance technology choices. So, unsurprisingly, the camera’s benefits of NDAA and TAA certification, make it a compliant choice for businesses, especially those dealing with U.S. government contracts. These certifications are crucial in the wake of security concerns and trade disputes, as they ensure the camera meets strict standards required for use in sensitive environments. The CC400W strikes a balance by offering compatibility with Synology’s platform, compliance with important regulatory standards, and moderate affordability for business users.

The design and production quality of the Synology CC400W Camera are commendable. While it’s still a surveillance camera and praise must be relative, it stands out as a compact and easily deployable option for business use. Some might note the absence of an included SD card or a solar panel with an internal battery system as drawbacks, but given its intended use case, these are minor concerns. The focus now shifts to how this camera integrates into your surveillance setup.

Synology CC400W Camera Review – Network Connectivity

The Synology CC400W is tailored specifically for integration with Synology NAS systems, eschewing support for use with third-party NVRs or NAS devices. It boasts wireless network connectivity, supporting dual-band Wi-Fi frequencies of 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, providing a reliable and sufficient range for camera deployment and the maintenance of stable video streams. While recent trends have introduced Wi-Fi 6 surveillance cameras featuring the 6 GHz band, such enhancements are deemed somewhat superfluous in the surveillance domain, where ensuring ample coverage distance remains the primary objective.

Lacking a physical Ethernet connection, the CC400W might deter users seeking a hybrid deployment approach. However, its integration with Synology software streamlines the setup process. Notably, the camera does not require a Synology surveillance camera license for operation in Surveillance Station, allowing users to conserve the two licenses typically included with most Synology NAS systems. This camera’s compatibility facilitates seamless firmware updates and direct control via the Surveillance Station GUI, simplifying long-term management and maintenance compared to third-party camera solutions.

Deployment of the CC400W requires it to reside within the same local area network as the Synology NAS it is configured to record to. This setup may necessitate adjustments to existing VLAN configurations, especially in environments with scattered wireless access points. The absence of a wired connection option could pose challenges for some setups. Configuration is streamlined through the DS cam mobile app for Android and iOS, which automatically detects the camera within the local network, eliminating the need for manual setup. This ease of integration underscores the camera’s designed compatibility with Synology’s ecosystem, offering a hassle-free addition to existing surveillance systems.

During practical evaluation, the CC400W’s performance was tested using a $10, 10-meter USB-C extension cable to extend power delivery distance, demonstrating the camera’s low power requirements and flexible deployment potential. The camera maintained high-quality video transmission even when placed 8 meters away from the nearest wireless access point, ensuring desired bitrate and framerate consistency. The ability to integrate and manage live feeds, archival footage, and AI-driven alerts within Surveillance Station’s monitoring center highlights the CC400W’s seamless operation and contribution to comprehensive surveillance setups, emphasizing its role within Synology’s networked ecosystem.

Synology CC400W Camera Review – Surveillance Station Software Support

Reviewing the Synology CC400W camera without addressing the Synology Surveillance Station software would be incomplete. This camera essentially relies on a Synology NAS and its integrated surveillance software to function. It’s no exaggeration to say that for many, the Surveillance Station software—bundled with every Synology NAS, regardless of size—justifies the entire cost of the system. Offering an enterprise-grade surveillance platform that is both user-friendly and rich in features, Surveillance Station has evolved from a niche add-on to one of Synology’s primary selling points. The software’s accessibility, client support, security, and comprehensive feature set make it a standout, regardless of whether it’s paired with a Synology CC400W camera or a third-party option. To delve into a detailed review of Surveillance Station would significantly extend the length of this article. Fortunately, a comprehensive review of Synology Surveillance Station 9.1 has been previously conducted, available below, a full review on YouTube. This review covers the wide array of features and benefits offered by this surveillance software when used in conjunction with a Synology camera. The Synology CC400W camera is specifically engineered to provide optimal performance with Synology Surveillance Station, the current version being 9.1.1. The camera’s integration with Surveillance Station offers advanced functionality that outshines the features provided by third-party and non-edge-AI-recognition cameras.

The CC400W camera, when paired with Surveillance Station, supports a plethora of services that transform your security experience. It provides access to live camera feed (monitoring center), which can be scaled to accommodate several cameras on screen simultaneously. You can also view live feeds and previous recordings side-by-side on the software.

Additionally, the Surveillance Station allows for privacy mask and watermark applications on the feed.

It also supports the upload of eMaps and integrates with third-party mapping services like Google Maps and OpenMaps.

Surveillance Station isn’t limited to camera support. It also provides control for IP speakers, door controls, and I/O supported peripherals. Users can access the system swiftly and intuitively via a mobile app, and even use their mobile as another surveillance camera feed with Synology Live Cam. Alerts and push notifications can be scheduled for specific events, and the system generates downloadable analytical reports.

The Surveillance Station further extends its functionality with an array of additional add-ons. These range from YouTube Live Streaming and video integrity tools to transaction checking and IFTTT/Webhook services.

It also offers features like motion detection, missing object detection, idle zone monitoring, and foreign object area tagging. Access to the Surveillance Station is conveniently provided through web browsers, desktop clients, and mobile clients, either over the local network or remotely.

One of the key features is the Smart Lapse creation, which lets you truncate long periods of recording into speedy sequences. For example, you can turn a full day’s footage into a few minutes for quick scanning. It also supports cloud recording with Synology C2 Surveillance (available with a free trial, then on a subscription basis).

The Surveillance Station also offers a Home Mode, which allows automated camera schedules to kick in when a defined user exits or enters the premises using WiFi links. More details on these features can be found in our review of Synology Surveillance Station 9.1 on our YouTube channel:

The CC400W camera, paired with Surveillance Station, supports sophisticated AI detection techniques like people detection, vehicle detection, intrusion detection, crowd detection, and loitering detection. It also offers a Smart Search feature that lets you search a predefined area of a recorded feed for specific incidents.

Vehicle Detection – Similar to its capability for human detection, the CC400W camera extends its intelligent recognition to vehicles as well. This feature proves particularly useful in situations when the premises are closed, and an unexpected vehicle enters the vicinity. The surveillance system can be programmed to provide ‘out of hours’ alerts, notifying owners whenever vehicles approach their premises during closed or off hours. It’s an excellent way to ensure the security of your property when you’re not physically present.

Intrusion Detection – The CC400W camera takes intrusion detection a notch higher with its advanced features. Users can draw lines on the feed that can have multiple bend or break points, marking out specific areas as off-limits. This allows the system to monitor if people or vehicles cross into these forbidden zones. Thanks to edge AI recognition, you can customize this feature to fit your needs—for example, allowing an area to be entered by people but not vehicles or vice versa. This level of customization helps create ‘no go’ zones at specific times, further enhancing the security of your premises.

Crowd Detection – The CC400W camera’s recognition capabilities extend beyond just humans and vehicles. It also offers nuanced crowd detection. For instance, the system could be programmed to ignore one or two people in a predefined area. However, if that number increases to five or six, it could trigger an alert. This crowd detection feature enables you to set thresholds for alerts based on the number of people in a particular area, ensuring you’re notified only when necessary.

Loitering Detection – Similar to crowd detection, loitering detection is another impressive feature of the CC400W camera. This function enables the camera to alert you when an individual or vehicle remains within a predefined area for an unusually long period. People just passing by won’t trigger an alert, but if they loiter around for a while, the system will notify you. This helps you keep an eye on any potential suspicious activity around your premises.

Smart Search – This feature significantly enhances the surveillance process by allowing you to focus on a specific area within recorded feeds. For instance, you can set the system to alert you of any movement, person, or vehicle in a predetermined spot, such as a door, desk, or window. By combining Smart Search with Smart Time Lapse, you can sift through weeks of recordings in a fraction of the time, automatically identifying any noteworthy events in a particular spot. It allows you to retroactively apply advanced surveillance parameters, even if they weren’t set up at the time of recording.

While the CC400W camera is impressive, it’s important to note that it does not support database storage. It cannot store a reference of specific people or faces and vehicle registrations for future comparison when they appear in the feed, allowing alerts to be scaled accordingly. To access this kind of functionality, a DVA system such as the Synology DVA1622 2-Bay or DVA3221 4 Bay is necessary. Similarly, the CC400W camera cannot keep numerical track of the number of people or objects crossing the set intrusion lines, making it impossible to maintain an accurate count—for instance, knowing who is in or out during a fire alarm. Thus, while the CC400W camera provides a range of advanced features, it has its limitations.

Recordings are sent via HTTPS/SRTP encryption to the NAS, are encrypted when recorded to the local memory card, and remain encrypted when backed up on the Surveillance C2 cloud service. Furthermore, the previously mentioned Synology CC400W camera is NDAA and TAA compliant, which gives it a distinct edge over lower-priced Chinese cameras. In conclusion, while the CC400W Camera does not match up to more expensive Deep Video Analysis systems like the DVA162/DVA3221, its exclusive features and exemption from surveillance licenses make it a compelling choice.

Surveillance Station boasts a vast array of features and services, many of which are either managed by the system itself or utilized in collaboration with the security camera. The integration of AI services with the CC400W camera opens up additional possibilities, although these are somewhat limited when compared to the capabilities unlocked with Synology’s DVA (Deep Video Analysis) NAS units. The CC400W can recognize humans and vehicles, create paths and exclusion zones, and assist in AI-driven searches to accelerate archive retrievals. However, lacking an onboard AI database means it cannot perform more complex AI tasks that require immediate access to an extensive, regularly updated system database—such as people counting, license plate recognition, and facial recognition. These advanced functionalities necessitate a DVA NAS and are crucial to consider when setting up a surveillance system aimed at recognition or identification, as these tasks require different system resources and camera capabilities.

What IS and ISN’T Possible with the Synology Camera AI-Assisted Services?

Now, despite the Synology CC400W, BC500 and TC500 Surveillance Cameras arriving with onboard hardware for AI-powered recognition tasks, it is worth highlighting that using them is NOT the same as using the Deep Video Analysis (DVA) series of NAS servers in Synology’s portfolio. These operations are managed from inside the camera and the alerts are handled and actioned by the NAS after the camera sends the appropriate alert – and these cameras so NOT have the same level of hardware as the DVA1622 and DVA3221 inside each of them! Additionally, whereas the DVA series manages multiple tasks internally from multiple cameras, only using the camera hardware as a life ‘feed’, these cameras cannot run deeper AI tasks that involve counting, internal database management and keeping records of AI referral data internally – they do not have the storage or processing power for that. So more complex people counting and specific facial recognition will not be immediately available to your PLUS series Diskstation, just because you are using the BC500, CC400W and/or TC500. Here is a breakdown of the services available to users with either Synology Cameras or a Synology DVA NAS:

AI Service	Case Use	BC500 & TC500	DVA1622 & DVA3221
People / Vehicle/Loitering Detection	Reduce false alarm and protect against loitering	YES	YES
Crowd Detection	Monitor public safety or quality of service	YES	YES
Intrusion Detection	Protect perimeter and restricted area	YES	YES
Instant Search	Investigate incidents quickly after they happen	YES	NO
People/Vehicle Counting	Calculate occupancy in shops, food courts, or parking lots with aggregated counting of people and vehicles entering and leaving	NO	YES
Face Recognition	Automate personnel identification and prevent unauthorized access	NO	YES
License Plate Recognition	Identify license plates and set up triggers based on configurable allow or block lists	NO	YES

If you are unaware of the Synology Deep Video Analysis NAS system, you can find out more about it in the video reviews of the hardware and software below from our YouTube channel:

Synology CC400W Camera Review – Conclusion

The Synology CC400W, when viewed in isolation, stands out as a slightly above-average surveillance camera. It may not be at the cutting edge of technology, but it doesn’t aspire to be. Instead, Synology is focusing on expanding its camera lineup to complement its well-established surveillance NAS platform, aiming to offer robust and seamlessly integrated products rather than chasing the latest trends. The commitment to ensuring compatibility with third-party cameras while expanding its own range, including the CC400W, BC500, and TC500, is a smart move. It appeals to users seeking a unified first-party surveillance solution that minimizes compatibility issues and security vulnerabilities.

One of the CC400W’s strengths is its honesty about capabilities, a refreshing approach in a market often dominated by overhyped claims. This camera clearly delineates its role in the surveillance setup, highlighting a balanced workload between the camera and the Synology NAS. This straightforward integration is likely to attract users looking for a hassle-free surveillance solution. The camera’s enhanced security features, compliance with US certifications, and the absence of a requirement for a surveillance camera license further contribute to its appeal as a reliable, if not revolutionary, product designed for long-term use.

However, there are aspects of the CC400W that could be improved. Given its exclusive design for use with Synology systems and services, the absence of an included SD card at its price point is a notable oversight. Additionally, a two-year warranty feels somewhat limited, especially considering the camera’s likely deployment in business settings for five to ten years, exclusively within Synology’s ecosystem. Moreover, there seems to be a gap in understanding among users regarding the camera’s object detection capabilities versus object recognition and analysis—a distinction Synology could clarify more effectively. Despite these drawbacks, for those looking to expand their Synology surveillance setup without the complexities of camera licenses, desiring quick setup and integration under a single brand, the CC400W confidently meets these needs.

Synology CC400W PROS	Synology CC400W CONS
Fast setup and near seamless integration with Synology NAS hardware The audio in and out is as clear as a whistle No need for a camera license simplifies everything! Sturdy and novel mounting base The wireless connectivity was one of the smoothest setups I have experienced in a surveillance camera Dedicated disconnection alerts in conjunction with SD card Edge recording works seamlessly! Remarkably well built, compact yet sturdy. The AI assisted object recognition (human and vehicle) although not perfect is still well presented and accessible in Surveillance Station Camera firmware updates are managed by the NAS smoothly. Significant certification and encryption standards mean unfettered deployment in US businesses	Surprisingly expensive given the hardware Lack of an SD card, despite it being a Synology branded product with Synology services that take advantage of the SD card, at this price! The two-year warranty seems weirdly short given the context of its deployment. Synology could do better in presenting the difference between their AI object cameras and deep video analysis NVRs, to avoid potential user confusion or disappointment.

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Welcome to our review of the Synology DVA1622 surveillance NAS, a device that stands out from the crowd with its impressive AI-assisted features, yet still runs on the well-known DiskStation Manager (DSM) platform. Synology has made a name for itself in the NAS arena, and their devices are often the first choice for those venturing into home or business network-attached storage. One of Synology’s standout features is the inclusion of its award-winning Surveillance Station NVR/CCTV software, currently at version 9.1, with all its NAS devices.Ho wever, the degree to which you can leverage the Surveillance Station depends heavily on the hardware specifications of your NAS. Here’s where the Synology DVA series, including the DVA3221 and our focus today, the DVA1622, sets itself apart. These devices utilize AI to analyze surveillance camera feeds live, offering features like person, vehicle, face, and license plate recognition, as well as people and vehicle counting, intrusion zone detection, and more. At a price tag of $599, the DVA1622 is about $199 more expensive than the more traditional DSM NAS systems such as the Synology DS720+ and DS723+ 2-Bay. But it offers additional surveillance services and comes with 8 camera licenses, compared to the 2 licenses typically included with other NAS devices. The question we’ll be answering in this review is: does the DVA1622 justify the extra cost with its enhanced surveillance capabilities? Stay tuned to find out.

Synology DVA1622 NAS Review – Quick Conclusion

In conclusion, the Synology DVA1622 makes a compelling case for being the best 2-Bay NAS from Synology, despite its price increase over the DS720+ and DS723+. Its ability to run DSM 7.2 on par with its counterparts, while also executing Surveillance Station exceptionally well, sets it apart from the crowd. The added benefits of AI recognition, live AI analysis of recordings, people counting, and intelligent intrusion guidelines are features that can be invaluable to businesses and home users who prioritize their security. Along with these perks, the 8 included surveillance licenses, a significant bump from the 2 that come with other Synology NAS devices, provide excellent value, considering they would cost around $200-250 on their own. The integrated graphics within its CPU offers enhanced multimedia playback capabilities, not only in DSM but also in HEVC recordings in Surveillance Station 9.1. Additionally, the local HDMI/KVM support grants standalone surveillance access, a feature rarely found in other Synology NAS devices. The DVA1622 outclasses the DS720+ by coming with 6GB of memory in its default model, compared to their 2GB. This robust offering, combined with the excellence of Surveillance Station 9.1, one of the world’s best surveillance software, enables the DVA1622 to deliver one of the best experiences of this software. Access to both DSM and Surveillance Station on the DVA1622 equips you with a full suite of NVR/CCTV services, as well as the backup, syncing, sharing, and security capabilities of DSM 7.2. However, the device isn’t without its limitations. It has only two USB ports, which may limit your flexibility for KVM setup with the HDMI and other USB-dependent tasks. Its single 1GbE port could potentially bottleneck your network, especially when running extensive camera setups and other network-heavy tasks. Additionally, the maximum memory of 6GB could hit a ceiling if you are running several services in DSM 7.2, operating 16 cameras, and managing 2 AI tasks simultaneously, considering the CPU supports up to 8GB. The lack of expandability with the Synology DX517 expansion chassis also limits storage potential, with a 2-Bay NAS typically implying a RAID 1 setup and halving the possible maximum storage. Despite these limitations, the DVA1622 stands as an excellent choice for a 2-Bay NAS. It is highly recommended for both surveillance and standard Synology DSM usage. However, it is essential to remember its lack of local connectivity and scalability when compared to the DS723+, which offers 32GB maximum.

SOFTWARE - 10/10

HARDWARE - 8/10

PERFORMANCE - 8/10

PRICE - 9/10

VALUE - 9/10

8.8

PROS

Runs BOTH Surveillance Station + DSM
All the DVA Task for fraction of DVA3221 Price
Supports Local KVM Standalone Access
8 Camera Licenses Included
No HDD Compatibility Limits
Run VERY Quietly
MASSIVE IP Camera Support List
Easily the \'BEST\' Synology 2-Bay
Surveillance Station 9.1 Is Still BRILLIANT

CONS

Cannot be Expanded
6GB Default/Max Memory is Weird
CPU is a little old
No M.2 NVMe SSD Support
Only 2x AI Tasks at once
Only 1x Network Port (no failover)

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Synology DVA1622 NAS Review – Packaging

The retail packaging for this product follows the typical Synology style, characterized by its simplicity and focus on sustainability. The materials used are almost entirely recyclable, reducing the environmental impact of the product’s packaging. The box is clearly labeled, showing exactly what’s inside, and offers comprehensive details about the system’s unique surveillance capabilities, printed on each edge of the box.

The box and internal structure are made just of cardboard, which aligns with Synology’s commitment to eco-friendly practices. However, this material choice, while great for the environment, does mean that the box is somewhat flimsy and may not hold up well under rough handling. But, it’s worth noting that the relatively lightweight nature of the Network Attached Storage (NAS) unit itself means this isn’t a significant problem in most shipping contexts.

This is a rather light NAS, and it’s shipped without any drives installed, so the flimsiness of the box is not much of an issue during shipping, realistically speaking. Despite the somewhat fragile nature of the packaging, the NAS unit should be perfectly secure within the box throughout the shipping process, given its light weight and the protective packing materials used. Therefore, the packaging’s environmental friendliness outweighs any minor concerns about its durability.

Inside the box, you’ll find a familiar assortment of accessories that typically come with any Synology 2 Bay NAS. This includes a 60W PSU, an RJ45 Cable, screws, manuals, information about the 3-year warranty, tray keys, and of course, the DVA1622 NAS unit itself. These components are all essential for setting up and using the DVA1622, ensuring that users have everything they need to get started.

The power supply unit (PSU) is an external 60W brick, which is branded with the Synology logo. This kind of PSU is fairly standard for compact, desktop, 2-bay HDD NAS systems. It’s designed to provide reliable and consistent power to the NAS, ensuring optimal operation and longevity of the unit. As a whole, the retail kit may come across as a bit mundane, but it is nonetheless sturdy and mindful of the environment. More importantly, it includes all the components that most users will need to set up and start using the DVA1622. The only thing missing, as is standard with NAS units, is the storage media which users can choose based on their specific requirements.

Synology DVA1622 NAS Review – Design

The design of the DVA1622 takes a lot of inspiration from the Synology DS720+ and DS723+ NAS units. These two models are less focused on surveillance but still fall under the category of prosumer 2-Bay NAS solutions. Despite borrowing heavily from these designs, the DVA1622 does feature its own unique elements tailored for its surveillance-oriented functionality.

The outer casing of the DVA1622 is made entirely of plastic, although it does incorporate a metal internal framework for added durability. It measures 166 mm x 106 mm x 223 mm, making it a compact device, and without drives, it weighs just 1.5KG. This combination of dimensions and weight makes the DVA1622 portable and convenient to place in various locations.

The DVA1622 is well-ventilated, featuring vents on nearly all its sides. These vents are strategically placed around the main storage bays, there’s a controller board vent on the base, and even the Synology logo on either side is vented. This level of ventilation, combined with the active rear fan, allows for effective cooling during round-the-clock operation.

This NAS features two storage bays that are designed to be hot-swappable. This allows users to replace or upgrade drives without having to shut down the system, providing seamless operation. The DVA1622 can run either half or fully populated with SATA Hard Drives or SSDs, providing users with a certain degree of flexibility in configuring their storage.

The drive trays utilize a click and load design, meaning no screwdriver is required for installation unless SSDs are used. This design feature simplifies the process of setting up and upgrading drives, making the DVA1622 more user-friendly. Furthermore, it officially supports up to 18TB HDDs from manufacturers like Seagate, WD, Toshiba, and Synology’s own HAT5300 and HAT3300 drives, though testing also showed compatibility with 20TB and 22TB HDDs from WD and Seagate.

One notable omission from the DVA1622’s design is the lack of any M.2 NVMe SSD bays. These bays are typically used for installing faster storage devices for caching or tiered storage. However, the inside of the Synology DVA1622 does have the PCIe connector that usually hosts the m.2 board, as seen in the DS720+/DS723+ models.

At the front of the system, there’s a USB port intended for local backups. This is a convenient feature for users who want to secure their data through physical backups. To make this process easier, the DSM operating system on the NAS provides several apps, like USB Copy and Hyper Backup, that can automatically manage these backups.

Unlike some other models, the DVA1622 doesn’t feature an LCD panel. Instead, it opts for LEDs that indicate the health of the system, drives, and network. These LEDs can be dimmed or deactivated as needed, offering users the ability to customize the system’s visual alerts based on their preferences.

The external design of the DVA1622 largely mirrors that of the DS720+/DS723+. The similarities in design language are evident, with differences mainly lying in the specific features each model offers. To understand the real differences between the DVA1622 and the DS720+/DS723+, it’s necessary to look at the ports, which also account for the approximate $199 price difference between the models.

Synology DVA1622 NAS Review – Ports and Connections

The DVA1622’s ports present a mix of positive and negative aspects, especially when compared with other 2-Bay NAS models in the market. There are numerous ports to accommodate various needs, but some users may find certain aspects lacking. Despite this, it provides a satisfactory range of connectivity options for the average user.

Like other models, the DVA1622 has the same single 80mm rear fan. This fan’s RPM automatically adjusts according to the system’s temperature requirements, which aids in maintaining optimal operating conditions. If necessary, users also have the option to manually adjust the fan’s speed.

The system only features a single network connection, unlike the DS720+ which has dual LAN. This means features like SMB multichannel, port trunking, and network failover aren’t possible with the DVA1622. The lack of a 10GbE upgrade option, which is present in the DS723+ NAS, is another difference.

The 1GbE network connection isn’t a significant dealbreaker, but having up to 16 cameras sharing this connection and the system’s up/down access by sys admins might be a concern for users operating higher-quality cameras in Surveillance Station 9. This could become a problem particularly if they’re on ’24×7 recording and alerts’ mode. Therefore, users would need to carefully consider their surveillance needs before deciding on the DVA1622.

This system supports KVM, with an HDMI 2.0 (4K 60FPS) output, which can exclusively be used for Surveillance Station. This means that in addition to local network and remote access to the surveillance setup, users can have local/direct access whenever necessary. This can be beneficial for faster/high-quality feed access or in the event of network issues.

One downside is that there’s another USB port, which means for a keyboard/video/mouse local standalone setup (which is the precise reason for the HDMI support here), you would lose all USB access unless you use a hub. This could potentially limit the system’s functionality in certain setups. Therefore, users would need to keep this limitation in mind when planning their setup. Another design decision that might be disappointing for some users is the lack of an expansion slot. Both the DS720+ and DS723+ have eSATA ports for the DX517 expansion chassis, which allows for the addition of 5 more bays. This means users of the DVA1622 are limited to the built-in storage bays, which could constrain their storage capacity, especially considering the likelihood of using a RAID1/SHR setup that effectively halves storage potential.

Given that this is a 2-Bay NAS, the scope for archiving your recordings is somewhat limited, presenting a lower glass ceiling than many non-surveillance NAS. This could be a concern for users who need a large amount of storage for long-term archiving of high-definition surveillance footage. However, for users with moderate storage needs, this should not be a significant issue. Overall, the ports and connections of the DVA1622 are satisfactory, but there are many missed opportunities in scalability for network bandwidth and storage that other Synology 2-Bay NAS models handle better. Therefore, users looking for greater scalability may want to consider other options. It’s now time to delve into the specifics of the internal hardware.

Synology DVA1622 NAS Review – Internal Hardware

Internally, the DVA1622 uses a setup that’s almost identical to the Synology DS720+ released in 2020, but with a few notable differences. One difference is that it lacks the m.2 connections but has a higher base memory. This gives the DVA1622 a unique combination of features that differentiate it from other models.

The DVA1622 is powered by an x86 Intel J4125 Celeron CPU, which operates at a speed of 2.0-2.7Ghz, features integrated graphics, and has a 4-Core, 4 Thread configuration. This CPU has been heavily used by Synology in other releases, including the DS423+ model. However, it is beginning to show its age a little now.

Unlike the Intel Atom powered DVA3221 4-Bay (which boasts an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 graphics card), the DVA1622 relies on the CPU’s integrated graphics for its AI surveillance tasks. This limits the number of active AI deep analysis tasks to 2x at any given time, compared to the 8-12x tasks that the DVA3221 can handle. But it’s worth noting that despite this limitation, the DVA1622 still offers impressive performance for most use cases.

It’s important to note that the DVA1622 can also run everything in DSM, Synology’s operating system. This allows users to enjoy a full and polished DSM 7.2 experience in addition to their Surveillance Station 9.1 experience. This makes the DVA1622 an attractive option for users who want a versatile NAS that’s capable of handling a wide range of tasks.

The DVA1622 comes with 6GB of non-ecc, Synology-branded DDR4 memory. While this is slightly odd considering the CPU supports up to 8GB (and Synology supported up to 6GB in the DS720+), it is a nice step up from the 2GB the DS720+ arrived with by default. This additional memory can prove beneficial in handling simultaneous tasks. One of the standout features of the DVA1622 is its deep learning AI capability. This feature enables advanced image recognition and analysis, making it a powerful tool for security surveillance applications. Despite its few limitations and a higher price tag compared to its non-surveillance counterparts, the DVA1622 still holds significant appeal for users looking for a compact, user-friendly NAS with impressive surveillance capabilities

Synology DVA1622 NAS Review – DSM 7.2 and Surveillance Station 9.1

The Synology DVA1622 Surveillance NAS Server has been specifically designed to optimally perform with Synology Surveillance Station, which is currently on version 9.1.1. The DVA1622’s seamless integration with Surveillance Station delivers an advanced functionality that far surpasses the features provided by non-edge-AI-recognition NAS servers.

The DVA1622, when synchronized with Surveillance Station, supports a multitude of services that dramatically elevate your surveillance experience. It enables access to live feed from multiple cameras (monitoring center), which can be configured to accommodate several cameras on screen simultaneously. Moreover, it allows for simultaneous viewing of live feeds and previous recordings within the software.

Additionally, the Surveillance Station allows for the application of privacy masks and watermarks on the feed. It also facilitates the upload of eMaps and integrates seamlessly with third-party mapping services like Google Maps and OpenMaps.

Surveillance Station isn’t merely confined to NAS server support. It extends control to IP speakers, door controls, and I/O supported peripherals. Users can access the system swiftly and intuitively via a mobile app, even transforming their mobile into another surveillance feed with Synology Live Cam. The system also supports alerts and push notifications for specific events, and generates downloadable analytical reports.

The Surveillance Station expands its functionality through a host of additional add-ons. These include YouTube Live Streaming, video integrity tools, transaction checking, and IFTTT/Webhook services.

It also includes features like motion detection, missing object detection, idle zone monitoring, and foreign object area tagging. Access to the Surveillance Station is conveniently provided through web browsers, desktop clients, and mobile clients, either over the local network or remotely.

One standout feature is Smart Lapse creation, which enables you to condense extensive recording periods into rapid sequences. This tool allows you to condense a full day’s footage into a few minutes for quick scanning. Additionally, the DVA1622 supports cloud recording with Synology C2 Surveillance (available with a free trial, then on a subscription basis).

The Surveillance Station also includes a Home Mode, which automatically initiates camera schedules when a defined user exits or enters the premises using WiFi links. More details on these features can be found in our review of Synology Surveillance Station 9.1 on our YouTube channel below.

The DVA1622 NAS server, in collaboration with Surveillance Station, supports advanced AI detection techniques such as people detection, vehicle detection, intrusion detection, crowd detection, and loitering detection. It also incorporates a Smart Search feature that lets you search a predefined area of a recorded feed for specific incidents.

Vehicle Detection – Similar to human detection capabilities, the DVA1622 NAS server extends its intelligent recognition to vehicles as well. This feature proves especially useful when the premises are closed, and an unexpected vehicle enters the vicinity. The surveillance system can be programmed to provide ‘out of hours’ alerts, notifying owners whenever vehicles approach their premises during closed or off hours. This is an excellent way to ensure the security of your property when you’re not physically present.

Intrusion Detection – The DVA1622 takes intrusion detection up a notch with its advanced features. Users can draw lines on the feed that can have multiple bend or break points, marking out specific areas as off-limits. This allows the system to monitor if people or vehicles cross into these forbidden zones. Thanks to edge AI recognition, you can customize this feature to suit your needs—for example, allowing an area to be entered by people but not vehicles or vice versa. This level of customization helps create ‘no go’ zones at specific times, further enhancing the security of your premises.

Crowd Detection – The DVA1622’s recognition capabilities extend beyond just humans and vehicles. It also offers nuanced crowd detection. For instance, the system could be programmed to ignore one or two people in a predefined area. However, if that number increases to five or six, it could trigger an alert. This crowd detection feature enables you to set thresholds for alerts based on the number of people in a particular area, ensuring you’re notified only when necessary.

Loitering Detection – Similar to crowd detection, loitering detection is another impressive feature of the DVA1622. This function enables the server to alert you when an individual or vehicle remains within a predefined area for an unusually long period. People just passing by won’t trigger an alert, but if they loiter around for a while, the system will notify you. This helps you keep an eye on any potential suspicious activity around your premises.

Smart Search – This feature significantly enhances the surveillance process by allowing you to focus on a specific area within recorded feeds. For instance, you can set the system to alert you of any movement, person, or vehicle in a predetermined spot, such as a door, desk, or window. By combining Smart Search with Smart Time Lapse, you can sift through weeks of recordings in a fraction of the time, automatically identifying any noteworthy events in a particular spot. It allows you to retroactively apply advanced surveillance parameters, even if they weren’t set up at the time of recording.

In the last few months, Synology have rolled out their own Surveillance cameras in the BC500 and TC500, both of which arrive with edge AI recognition and do not require a surveillance camera license in use with a NAS (DVA1622 included). This has arguably undermined some of the appeal and value of deep video analysis NAS such as the DVA1622, however these cameras have one very significant limitation. For instance, they do not support database storage. They cannot store a reference of specific people or faces and vehicle registrations for future comparison when they appear in the feed, allowing alerts to be scaled accordingly.

To access this kind of functionality, a DVA system such as the Synology DVA1622. or DVA3221 4-Bay is necessary. Similarly, the Synology Cmaeras cannot keep track of the number of people or objects crossing the set intrusion lines, making it impossible to maintain an accurate count—for instance, knowing who is in or out during a fire alarm. This is where live AI analysis NAS like the DVA1622 shine.

Recordings are sent via HTTPS/SRTP encryption to the NAS, encrypted when recorded to the local memory, and remain encrypted when backed up on the Surveillance C2 cloud service. In conclusion, while the DVA1622 Surveillance NAS Server may not match more expensive Deep Video Analysis systems like the DVA3221, its unique features compared with other more affordable 2-bays, yet inclusive 8 licenses and surveillance AI analysis tasks make it a compelling choice.

However, it’s worth keeping in mind that there is more to the DVA1622 NAS than Surveillance Station, as it also includes the full DSM 7.2 applications and services. Now, to cover the WHOLE Synology DSM software and services that are included with the DVA1622 NAS would result in a review that is twice as long as this review so far! Synology’s Diskstation Manager software that comes with this device (either DSM 7 or DSM 6.2 depending on your preference) provides a massive arrangement of services, applications (first and third-party supported) and a huge number of client applications for Desktop clients, Mobile, Windows, Mac and Linux (as well as a bunch of other more home-based tools). These allow management and access to the data on the DVA1622 in very tailored ways, as well as the web browser-based access that has the appearance, intuitive design and responsiveness of a local operating system. The DSM interface can be accessed by hundreds of users at the same time (with each user having tailored access, rights and privileges). DSM is available with ALL Synology NAS and the depth and abilities of DSM on any NAS are dependent on the hardware architecture of the NAS itself. In the case of the Synology DVA1622, it supports practically EVERYTHING (with the exception of SHR, as previously mentioned). If you want to learn about the latest version of DSM 7 and the software and services that are included with the DVA1622 NAS, watch my FULL review below (alternatively, you can read the DSM 7 Full Review HERE):

As mentioned, the DVA1622 supports pretty much the entirety of the DSM 7 and DSM 6.2 applications and services. If you are an existing user of SaaS and PaaS (Software as a service and Platform as a service) from the likes of Google Workspace and Office 365, knowing that you can synchronize these systems or choose to export away from them onto the Synology services is going to be very appealing. Key business applications that are included with your NAS are:

Synology DVA1622 NAS Review – Conclusion & Verdict

In conclusion, the Synology DVA1622 makes a compelling case for being the best 2-Bay NAS from Synology, despite its price increase over the DS720+ and DS723+. Its ability to run DSM 7.2 on par with its counterparts, while also executing Surveillance Station exceptionally well, sets it apart from the crowd. The added benefits of AI recognition, live AI analysis of recordings, people counting, and intelligent intrusion guidelines are features that can be invaluable to businesses and home users who prioritize their security. Along with these perks, the 8 included surveillance licenses, a significant bump from the 2 that come with other Synology NAS devices, provide excellent value, considering they would cost around $200-250 on their own. The integrated graphics within its CPU offers enhanced multimedia playback capabilities, not only in DSM but also in HEVC recordings in Surveillance Station 9.1. Additionally, the local HDMI/KVM support grants standalone surveillance access, a feature rarely found in other Synology NAS devices. The DVA1622 outclasses the DS720+ by coming with 6GB of memory in its default model, compared to their 2GB. This robust offering, combined with the excellence of Surveillance Station 9.1, one of the world’s best surveillance software, enables the DVA1622 to deliver one of the best experiences of this software.

Access to both DSM and Surveillance Station on the DVA1622 equips you with a full suite of NVR/CCTV services, as well as the backup, syncing, sharing, and security capabilities of DSM 7.2. However, the device isn’t without its limitations. It has only two USB ports, which may limit your flexibility for KVM setup with the HDMI and other USB-dependent tasks. Its single 1GbE port could potentially bottleneck your network, especially when running extensive camera setups and other network-heavy tasks. Additionally, the maximum memory of 6GB could hit a ceiling if you are running several services in DSM 7.2, operating 16 cameras, and managing 2 AI tasks simultaneously, considering the CPU supports up to 8GB. The lack of expandability with the Synology DX517 expansion chassis also limits storage potential, with a 2-Bay NAS typically implying a RAID 1 setup and halving the possible maximum storage. Despite these limitations, the DVA1622 stands as an excellent choice for a 2-Bay NAS. It is highly recommended for both surveillance and standard Synology DSM usage. However, it is essential to remember its lack of local connectivity and scalability when compared to the DS723+, which offers 32GB maximum.

Synology DVA1622 PROS	Synology DVA1622 CONS
Runs BOTH Surveillance Station + DSM All the DVA Task for fraction of DVA3221 Price Supports Local KVM Standalone Access 8 Camera Licenses Included No HDD Compatibility Limits Run VERY Quietly MASSIVE IP Camera Support List Easily the ‘BEST’ Synology 2-Bay Surveillance Station 9.1 Is Still BRILLIANT	Cannot be Expanded 6GB Default/Max Memory is Weird CPU is a little old No M.2 NVMe SSD Support Only 2x AI Tasks at once Only 1x Network Port (no failover)

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It’s been a couple of months since the full release by Synology of their new surveillance cameras, the TC500 current style ceiling camera and BC500 bullet style wall camera. When initially revealed, the brand seemed to be FINALLY addressing a long overlooked gap in the market by turnkey NAS solution providers who up to that point provided incredible surveillance software and services, but the asked users to choose one of 8000+ supported 3rd party cameras- never directly recommending one over another. Much like when Synology released their own first-party routers, hard drives, SSDs, network upgrades and more, this was done to further solidify their status as a single brand ecosystem provider (cough where is the official Synology Switch! WHERE!), so it made ALOT of sense. However, they are entering the camera market perhaps a little tentatively with the release of just two cameras and at a price point that is arguably a lot more business-focused than many would like (especially given the approx 2 decades old Surveillance station software is so incredibly popular and available on ALL of their NAS devices, big or small). Today I want to review the Synology TC500 Camera, discuss it’s strengths, it’s weaknesses and hopefully help you decide if it is perfect for your home/business CCTV setup!

You can find our Synology TC500 Camera Review YouTube HERE

Check Amazon for the Synology BC500 and TC500 Cameras

Synology TC500 Camera – HERE

Synology BC500 Camera – HERE

Synology BC500 and TC500 IP Camera Specification Highlights:

• BC500 = Compact Style IP Camera
• TC500 = Dome Style IP Camera
• Resolution: 5MP – 2880×1620 – 30FPS
• Horizontal angle: 110 degrees
• Weatherproof standard with IP67 Rating
• IK10 Vandal Proof
• Nightvision  covers 30 Metres
• SRTP/HTTPS support for enhanced security of video streams
• Complies with US NDAA/TAA standards
• Intelligent vehicle and person detection
• Integrate seamlessly with Surveillance Station, enhancing the seamless surveillance management experience
• Encrypted recordings
• SD Card Slot

Synology TC500 Camera Review – Quick Conclusion

The Synology TC500 Turret-style camera, characterized by advanced edge-based AI recognition, epitomizes the new era in surveillance technology by efficiently filtering out unneeded alerts and enhancing operational efficiency. Despite a higher price, Synology’s superior software and cybersecurity commitment, manifesting in TAA and NDAA-compliant products, could outweigh the cost for users seeking a safe surveillance solution. While there might be some hardware compromises compared to cheaper models, the TC500’s robust functionality and performance stand out. Synology’s cameras, predominantly aimed at business-class users, offer immense value for large-scale surveillance deployments. However, home users may find less appeal due to the limited model range and pronounced emphasis on advanced security features. The TC500 offers substantial benefits for businesses, but home users might need to wait for an expanded range more tailored to their needs. Until then, the TC500 remains a reliable option for sophisticated, business-grade surveillance.

SOFTWARE - 10/10

HARDWARE - 8/10

PERFORMANCE - 8/10

PRICE - 7/10

VALUE - 7/10

8.0

PROS

Unparalleled Synology Surveillance Station Integration
Also, Surveillance station is 10/10 on its own
NDAA/TAA Compliant, unlike many budget alternatives (HTTPS/SRTP Support Recording Options)
Edge Recording Object Recognition is incredibly useful
Person/Car Loitering and Crowd gathering monitoring does not get enough credit for how useful it is!
No Additional Camera License Requirements
Sturdy and Solid Build Quality
EXCEPTIONALLY FAST and EASY first-time setup
Sub 5W use over PoE typically
3 Year Hardware Warranty and Effective Lifetime Software Warranty
Edge Recording and C2 Surveillance Cloud Recording Support
Smart Search is a gamechanger for precise retroactive searching
Intrusion Mapping is intuitive and very customizable in it\\\'s design
Noise Detection (custom threshold) is exceptionally useful and often overlooked

CONS

More than double the cost of 3rd party similar cameras
Good, but not top-tier night vision
Only 2 Models in the Synology Camera range limit the scope of deployment
Can only be used with Synology NAS Systems
No PoE Mains power Injector or SD Card included, which at this price seems poor
Somewhat cancelled out by the Synology DVA1622 with Deep Video Analysis at $599

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Synology TC500 Camera Review – Packaging

Upon first look, the TC500 retail box is very ‘on brand’. True to the Synology house style, the packaging is almost completely recyclable, clearly labelled and very modern – an aesthetic that’s stylishly minimalist and straightforward.

The box’s sides are amply covered with detailed information specific to the TC500 camera. This presentation is impressively neat, particularly for a product traditionally not associated with such looking nice at the retail level.

The camera kit itself includes the TC500 camera, a quick-start setup guide, a wall guide for installation, screws, raw plugs, and a waterproof cable cover.

Unfortunately, the package lacks a Power over Ethernet (PoE) injector for mains power. Considering the camera’s price tag of $250-300, this omission is a bit disappointing.

Nonetheless, the TC500 camera comes with a 3-year hardware warranty and offers lifetime support in Synology Surveillance station, which is probably going to matter more to most users who plan on having this camera deployed for 5-10 years without thinking about it. All in all, the TC500 is packaged neatly and practically, setting the stage for the camera’s design and functionality.

Synology TC500 Camera Review – Design

The TC500 camera boasts a rugged, compact design. The main camera is on a rotating base that can be turned 360 degrees, as well as a verticle adjustment angle of around 100 degrees. The TC500 is designed to be ceiling/wall mounted (high!) and has a lens view of 110° x 56° x 132°.

However, it is important to not that the Synology TC500 is not a PTZ (pan, tilt, zoom) camera and adjustments to it’s viewing angle need to be manually adjusted after deployment as needed. The Synology camera brand at the time of launch is only two models (this current style one and one bullet model). No doubt a PTZ model is on the cards later in the series.

However, on a plus note, it’s worth noting that unlike its counterpart, the BC500 Bullet-style camera, the TC500 current style is rated IK10 vandal-proof. Although this won’t be an issue for some users, it’s something to remember when comparing these two for specific setups. It is IP67 weatherproof and unless it gets fully water submerged, it should more than withstand heavy downpours of rain and typical cold/frost.

The base of the back panel of the TC500 is removable and allows you to install to the wall first, before mounting the camera. This is to ensure a clean installation and maintain the camera’s weatherproofing when deployed outside. Resettings the camera is achieved via the

A removable panel at the bottom of the camera reveals an SD card slot supporting up to 128GB and a reset button. This SD card slot allows edge recording. In the event of a network error or an unreachable target surveillance NAS, it will record directly onto the SD card and then resync the recordings with the NAS when the connection is restored.

The TC500 features a considerably large lens surface area, with a status LED on the top right and a microphone on the top left. This microphone can be used to record audio alongside the video feed. Moreover, the BC500 supports Audio Detection, allowing the user to be alerted when noise exceeds a certain threshold.

The TC500 camera can record at 2880×1620 resolution at 30 FPS, or a substream at 1920×1080 @ 15 FPS or 1280×720 @ 30 FPS, using either H.264 or H.265 (also known as HEVC).

Unfortunately, given its price tag, the 5 Megapixel/5MP lens is slightly underwhelming when you consider that you can buy 4K cameras with optical zoom at a lower price point. That said, there is a large amount of adjustment possible in the Surveillance station software:

There is no denying that the Synology TC500 camera lens and recording quality maximum is a little underwhelming for the price point, however, the image clarity is nevertheless commendable and should satisfy the needs of most users.

Synology TC500 Camera Review – Surveillance Software and Services

The Synology TC500 camera is specifically engineered to provide optimal performance with Synology Surveillance Station, the current version being 9.1.1. The camera’s integration with Surveillance Station offers advanced functionality that outshines the features provided by third-party and non-edge-AI-recognition cameras.

The TC500 camera, when paired with Surveillance Station, supports a plethora of services that transform your security experience. It provides access to live camera feed (monitoring center), which can be scaled to accommodate several cameras on screen simultaneously. You can also view live feeds and previous recordings side-by-side on the software.

Additionally, the Surveillance Station allows for privacy mask and watermark applications on the feed.

It also supports the upload of eMaps and integrates with third-party mapping services like Google Maps and OpenMaps.

Surveillance Station isn’t limited to camera support. It also provides control for IP speakers, door controls, and I/O supported peripherals. Users can access the system swiftly and intuitively via a mobile app, and even use their mobile as another surveillance camera feed with Synology Live Cam. Alerts and push notifications can be scheduled for specific events, and the system generates downloadable analytical reports.

The Surveillance Station further extends its functionality with an array of additional add-ons. These range from YouTube Live Streaming and video integrity tools to transaction checking and IFTTT/Webhook services.

It also offers features like motion detection, missing object detection, idle zone monitoring, and foreign object area tagging. Access to the Surveillance Station is conveniently provided through web browsers, desktop clients, and mobile clients, either over the local network or remotely.

One of the key features is the Smart Lapse creation, which lets you truncate long periods of recording into speedy sequences. For example, you can turn a full day’s footage into a few minutes for quick scanning. It also supports cloud recording with Synology C2 Surveillance (available with a free trial, then on a subscription basis).

The Surveillance Station also offers a Home Mode, which allows automated camera schedules to kick in when a defined user exits or enters the premises using WiFi links. More details on these features can be found in our review of Synology Surveillance Station 9.1 on our YouTube channel:

The TC500 camera, paired with Surveillance Station, supports sophisticated AI detection techniques like people detection, vehicle detection, intrusion detection, crowd detection, and loitering detection. It also offers a Smart Search feature that lets you search a predefined area of a recorded feed for specific incidents.

Vehicle Detection – Similar to its capability for human detection, the TC500 camera extends its intelligent recognition to vehicles as well. This feature proves particularly useful in situations when the premises are closed, and an unexpected vehicle enters the vicinity. The surveillance system can be programmed to provide ‘out of hours’ alerts, notifying owners whenever vehicles approach their premises during closed or off hours. It’s an excellent way to ensure the security of your property when you’re not physically present.

Intrusion Detection – The TC500 camera takes intrusion detection a notch higher with its advanced features. Users can draw lines on the feed that can have multiple bend or break points, marking out specific areas as off-limits. This allows the system to monitor if people or vehicles cross into these forbidden zones. Thanks to edge AI recognition, you can customize this feature to fit your needs—for example, allowing an area to be entered by people but not vehicles or vice versa. This level of customization helps create ‘no go’ zones at specific times, further enhancing the security of your premises.

Crowd Detection – The TC500 camera’s recognition capabilities extend beyond just humans and vehicles. It also offers nuanced crowd detection. For instance, the system could be programmed to ignore one or two people in a predefined area. However, if that number increases to five or six, it could trigger an alert. This crowd-detection feature enables you to set thresholds for alerts based on the number of people in a particular area, ensuring you’re notified only when necessary.

Loitering Detection – Similar to crowd detection, loitering detection is another impressive feature of the TC500 camera. This function enables the camera to alert you when an individual or vehicle remains within a predefined area for an unusually long period. People just passing by won’t trigger an alert, but if they loiter around for a while, the system will notify you. This helps you keep an eye on any potential suspicious activity around your premises.

Smart Search – This feature significantly enhances the surveillance process by allowing you to focus on a specific area within recorded feeds. For instance, you can set the system to alert you of any movement, person, or vehicle in a predetermined spot, such as a door, desk, or window. By combining Smart Search with Smart Time Lapse, you can sift through weeks of recordings in a fraction of the time, automatically identifying any noteworthy events in a particular spot. It allows you to retroactively apply advanced surveillance parameters, even if they weren’t set up at the time of recording.

While the TC500 camera is impressive, it’s important to note that it does not support database storage. It cannot store a reference of specific people or faces and vehicle registrations for future comparison when they appear in the feed, allowing alerts to be scaled accordingly. To access this kind of functionality, a DVA system such as the Synology DVA1622 2-Bay or DVA3221 4 Bay is necessary. Similarly, the TC500 camera cannot keep track of the number of people or objects crossing the set intrusion lines, making it impossible to maintain an accurate count—for instance, knowing who is in or out during a fire alarm. Thus, while the TC500 camera provides a range of advanced features, it has its limitations.

Recordings are sent via HTTPS/SRTP encryption to the NAS, are encrypted when recorded to the local memory card, and remain encrypted when backed up on the Surveillance C2 cloud service. Furthermore, the Synology BC500 camera is NDAA and TAA compliant, which gives it a distinct edge over lower-priced Chinese cameras. In conclusion, while the TC500 Camera does not match up to more expensive Deep Video Analysis systems like the DVA162/DVA3221, its exclusive features and exemption from surveillance licenses make it a compelling choice.

All these edge AI recognition services sound good, but what about the Synology DVA series of Surveillance NAS? Don’t those have AI services? What can the more expensive Synology DVA1622 and DVA3221 do the BC500 and TC500 Cameras cannot?

Which AI Services Are Included with the Synology TC500 and BC500 Cameras (and which ones are not)?

Now, despite the Synology TC500 and BC500 Surveillance Cameras arriving with onboard hardware for AI-powered recognition tasks, it is worth highlighting that using them is NOT the same as using the Deep Video Analysis (DVA) series of NAS servers in Synology’s portfolio. These operations are managed from inside the camera and the alerts are handled and actioned by the NAS after the camera sends the appropriate alert – and these cameras so NOT have the same level of hardware as the DVA1622 and DVA3221 inside each of them! Additionally, whereas the DVA series manages multiple tasks internally from multiple cameras, only using the camera hardware as a life ‘feed’, these cameras cannot run deeper AI tasks that involve counting, internal database management and keeping records of AI referral data internally – they do not have the storage or processing power for that. So more complex people counting and specific facial recognition will not be immediately available to your PLUS series Diskstation, just because you are using the TC500 and/or BC500. Here is a breakdown of the services available to users with either Synology Cameras or a Synology DVA NAS:

If you are unaware of the Synology Deep Video Analysis NAS system, you can find out more about it in the video reviews of the hardware and software below from our YouTube channel:

Synology TC500 Camera Review – Conclusion & Verdict

With the rise of edge-based AI recognition, surveillance technology has taken a new turn. Cameras like the Synology TC500, a Turret style camera, embody this advancement beautifully, designed meticulously to sift out unnecessary alerts from your surveillance feeds, enhancing your operational efficiency and managing your time optimally. This particular aspect of the TC500 makes it an essential tool in an era where time is the most coveted asset. Now, I am aware that Synology has placed a higher price tag on their products, but let me provide you with a perspective on this. Synology’s dedication to creating superior software and its steadfast commitment to cybersecurity has made its products TAA and NDAA-compliant. This compliance could potentially outweigh the cost factor for many users who are looking for a safe and secure surveillance solution.

Comparing the TC500 to some more economically priced models in the market, there might be a perceived gap in terms of hardware such as resolution and sensor quality. However, Synology’s cameras are not just about hardware; they deliver on robust functionality and reliable performance that others might struggle to match.It is quite apparent that Synology’s cameras, especially the TC500, are primarily aimed at business-class users. These cameras are incredibly valuable for large-scale surveillance systems deployment and utilize edge AI recognition, making them a sensible choice for businesses. However, for home users, who could potentially find comparable hardware for a lesser cost, the appeal might be somewhat limited. This is especially true considering Synology’s current limited model range and the pronounced emphasis on high-level security features that may be more relevant to business scenarios than residential ones. Synology’s TC500 offers tangible benefits for businesses of all sizes. Its features and functionalities can streamline surveillance operations, making them more effective and less time-consuming. However, home users might want to exercise a bit of patience. With Synology’s track record of slowly but surely adapting to expanding tiers of their portfolio, it’s not unreasonable to expect an expansion of their range that is a little more home-user rich (perhaps a J/Value series), tailored more towards the modest market. Until then, the TC500 stands as a solid, reliable option for those seeking a sophisticated, business-grade surveillance solution.

Synology TC500 PROS	Synology TC500 CONS
Unparalleled Synology Surveillance Station Integration Also, Surveillance station is 10/10 on its own NDAA/TAA Compliant, unlike many budget alternatives (HTTPS/SRTP Support Recording Options) Edge Recording Object Recognition is incredibly useful Person/Car Loitering and Crowd gathering monitoring does not get enough credit for how useful it is! No Additional Camera License Requirements Sturdy and Solid Build Quality EXCEPTIONALLY FAST and EASY first-time setup Sub 5W use over PoE typically 3 Year Hardware Warranty and Effective Lifetime Software Warranty Edge Recording and C2 Surveillance Cloud Recording Support Smart Search is a gamechanger for precise retroactive searching Intrusion Mapping is intuitive and very customizable in it’s design Noise Detection (custom threshold) is exceptionally useful and often overlooked	More than double the cost of 3rd party similar cameras Good, but not top-tier night vision Only 2 Models in the Synology Camera range limit the scope of deployment Can only be used with Synology NAS Systems No PoE Mains power Injector or SD Card included, which at this price seems poor Somewhat cancelled out by the Synology DVA1622 with Deep Video Analysis at $599

If you are thinking of buying a Synology NAS, please use the links below as it results in us at NASCompares receiving an affiliate fee from Amazon:

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When Synology first revealed that they were going to be releasing their own surveillance cameras, many users (myself included, arguably louder than many) that this was long, LONG overdue. But why exactly is the Synology BC500 Camera a big deal? Pretty much all of the premium NAS brands (not just Synology) provide turnkey products that are a combination hardware+software solutions. Although this software includes a lot of backend services and popular tools to maintain your data, they also include surveillance camera software that allows you to use your NAS as a NVR/CCTV central hub. Running parallel with the rest of the NAS services, these surveillance services that are included with most NAS have often been the main motivation for their purchase (or make up a decent % of the intended use and therefore result in a better ROI by the buyer), with Synology’s Surveillance Station software largely considered to be the very best of the bunch! However, till now, NAS brands would never directly recommend a singular camera brand/model.. they would recommend one of the 7000-8000 compatibility cameras (of varying price, quality, services, etc), but that was about it. Therefore when Synology took the big step in actually releasing their own single ecosystem cameras for Surveillance station, a lot of ‘all in one’ solution buyers were very happy indeed! Likewise, a 1st party camera largely ensures top-tier service and long-term support in the software too. It also means that you don’t need a camera license for the camera either, as support and staying onto of compatibility is integrated in the software itself. Plus, unlike a lot of budget cameras on the market predominantly coming out of China, the BC500 arrive TAA and NDAA compliant (so, must more appealing to IU.S Businesses and users with concerns of security and production conditions). So, what’s the catch? Well, when we saw that the Synology BC500 Camera was rolling out with a $250+ price tag, that was something of a surprise. Camera licenses, support, security, warranty’s and compatibility aside – that is more than double the cost of similar camera hardware from the likes of Reolink, Hikvision, Edimax and more. So, today we want to dig into the Synology BC500 Camera in our review and help you decide if they are safe enough for your data!

You can find our Synology BC500 Camera Review on YouTube HERE

Check Amazon for the Synology BC500 and TC500 Cameras

Synology BC500 Camera – HERE

Synology TC500 Camera – HERE

Synology BC500 and TC500 IP Camera Specification Highlights:

• BC500 = Compact Style IP Camera
• TC500 = Dome Style IP Camera
• Resolution: 5MP – 2880×1620 – 30FPS
• Horizontal angle: 110 degrees
• Weatherproof standard with IP67
• Nightvision  covers 30 Metres
• SRTP/HTTPS support for enhanced security of video streams
• Complies with US NDAA/TAA standards
• Intelligent vehicle and person detection
• Integrate seamlessly with Surveillance Station, enhancing the seamless surveillance management experience
• Encrypted recordings
• SD Card Slot

Synology BC500 Camera Review – Quick Conclusion

The edge-based AI recognition of cameras like the BC500 is designed to minimize unnecessary alerts from surveillance feeds, maximizing efficiency and time management. Despite Synology’s high pricing, its superior software and commitment to cybersecurity (with TAA and NDAA-compliant cameras) could justify the cost for many users. However, compared to some affordable models in the market, Synology’s cameras might lack in terms of hardware like resolution and sensor quality. These cameras seem primarily designed for business-class users, given their value for mass-deployed surveillance systems and edge AI recognition. Home users, who could find comparable hardware for less, might find less appeal, especially considering Synology’s current limited model range and the emphasis on security features more relevant to businesses. The Synology BC500 offers tangible benefits for businesses, but home users might want to wait for Synology to expand its range to cater more to their needs.

SOFTWARE - 10/10

HARDWARE - 7/10

PERFORMANCE - 9/10

PRICE - 7/10

VALUE - 8/10

8.2

PROS

Unparalleled Synology Surveillance Station Integration
Also, Surveillance station is 10/10 on its own
NDAA/TAA Compliant, unlike many budget alternatives (HTTPS/SRTP Support Recording Options)
Edge Recording Object Recognition is incredibly useful
Person/Car Loitering and Crowd gathering monitoring does not get enough credit for how useful it is!
No Additional Camera License Requirements
Sturdy and Solid Build Quality
EXCEPTIONALLY FAST and EASY first-time setup
Sub 5W use over PoE typically
3 Year Hardware Warranty and Effective Lifetime Software Warranty
Edge Recording and C2 Surveillance Cloud Recording Support
Smart Search is a gamechanger for precise retroactive searching
Intrusion Mapping is intuitive and very customizable in it\'s design
Noise Detection (custom threshold) is exceptionally useful and often overlooked

CONS

More than double the cost of 3rd party similar cameras
Good, but not top-tier night vision
Only 2 Models in the Synology Camera range limit the scope of deployment
Can only be used with Synology NAS Systems
No PoE Mains power Injector or SD Card included, which at this price seems poor
Somewhat cancelled out by the Synology DVA1622 with Deep Video Analysis at $599

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Synology BC500 Camera Review – Packaging

Upon first look, the BC500 retail box is very ‘on brand’. True to the Synology house style, the packaging is almost completely recyclable, clearly labeled and very modern – an aesthetic that’s stylishly minimalist and straightforward.

The box’s sides are amply covered with detailed information specific to the BC500 camera. This presentation is impressively neat, particularly for a product traditionally not associated with such looking nice at the retail level.

The camera kit itself includes the BC500 camera, a quick-start setup guide, a wall guide for installation, screws, raw plugs, and a waterproof cable cover.

Unfortunately, the package lacks a Power over Ethernet (PoE) injector for mains power. Considering the camera’s price tag of $250-300, this omission is a bit disappointing.

Nonetheless, the BC500 camera comes with a 3-year hardware warranty and offers lifetime support in Synology Surveillance station, which is probably going to matter more to most users who plan on having this camera deployed for 5-10 years without thinking about it. All in all, the BC500 is packaged neatly and practically, setting the stage for the camera’s design and functionality.

Synology BC500 Camera Review – Design

The BC500 camera boasts a rugged, compact design. It’s noticeably shorter in the main barrel compared to other bullet-style cameras, which comes as a pleasant surprise. The Synology logo is imprinted on either side of the device, and it sports a slightly protruding top panel designed to shield the lens from rainfall during operation.

However, it’s worth noting that unlike its counterpart, the TC500 Turret-style camera, the BC500 isn’t rated IK10 vandal-proof. Although this won’t be an issue for some users, it’s something to remember when comparing these two for specific setups. Still, it is IP67 weatherproof, demonstrating Synology’s commitment to durability.

The BC500 has a robust rotating base joint/bracket that offers flexibility for different deployment scenarios. The base is constructed of metal and employs a three-screw design. Even though the kit doesn’t include an additional wall mounting bracket (only a paper wall sticker is provided), it does come with the necessary screws and raw plugs for outdoor deployment.

A removable panel at the bottom of the camera reveals an SD card slot supporting up to 128GB and a reset button. This SD card slot allows edge recording. In the event of a network error or an unreachable target surveillance NAS, it will record directly onto the SD card and then resync the recordings with the NAS when the connection is restored.

The BC500 features a considerably large lens surface area, with a status LED on the top right and a microphone on the top left. This microphone can be used to record audio alongside the video feed. Moreover, the BC500 supports Audio Detection, allowing the user to be alerted when noise exceeds a certain threshold.

The BC500 camera can record at 2880×1620 resolution at 30 FPS, or a substream at 1920×1080 @ 15 FPS or 1280×720 @ 30 FPS, using either H.264 or H.265 (also known as HEVC).

Unfortunately, given its price tag, the 5 Megapixel/5MP lens is slightly underwhelming when you consider that you can buy 4K cameras with optical zoom at a lower price point. That said, there is a large amount of adjustment possible in the Surveillance station software:

There is no denying that the Synology BC500 camera lens and recording quality maximum is a little underwhelming for the price point, however, the image clarity is nevertheless commendable and should satisfy the needs of most users.

Synology BC500 Camera Review – Surveillance Software and Services

The Synology BC500 camera is specifically engineered to provide optimal performance with Synology Surveillance Station, the current version being 9.1.1. The camera’s integration with Surveillance Station offers advanced functionality that outshines the features provided by third-party and non-edge-AI-recognition cameras.

The BC500 camera, when paired with Surveillance Station, supports a plethora of services that transform your security experience. It provides access to live camera feed (monitoring center), which can be scaled to accommodate several cameras on screen simultaneously. You can also view live feeds and previous recordings side-by-side on the software.

Additionally, the Surveillance Station allows for privacy mask and watermark applications on the feed.

It also supports the upload of eMaps and integrates with third-party mapping services like Google Maps and OpenMaps.

Surveillance Station isn’t limited to camera support. It also provides control for IP speakers, door controls, and I/O supported peripherals. Users can access the system swiftly and intuitively via a mobile app, and even use their mobile as another surveillance camera feed with Synology Live Cam. Alerts and push notifications can be scheduled for specific events, and the system generates downloadable analytical reports.

The Surveillance Station further extends its functionality with an array of additional add-ons. These range from YouTube Live Streaming and video integrity tools to transaction checking and IFTTT/Webhook services.

It also offers features like motion detection, missing object detection, idle zone monitoring, and foreign object area tagging. Access to the Surveillance Station is conveniently provided through web browsers, desktop clients, and mobile clients, either over the local network or remotely.

One of the key features is the Smart Lapse creation, which lets you truncate long periods of recording into speedy sequences. For example, you can turn a full day’s footage into a few minutes for quick scanning. It also supports cloud recording with Synology C2 Surveillance (available with a free trial, then on a subscription basis).

The Surveillance Station also offers a Home Mode, which allows automated camera schedules to kick in when a defined user exits or enters the premises using WiFi links. More details on these features can be found in our review of Synology Surveillance Station 9.1 on our YouTube channel:

The BC500 camera, paired with Surveillance Station, supports sophisticated AI detection techniques like people detection, vehicle detection, intrusion detection, crowd detection, and loitering detection. It also offers a Smart Search feature that lets you search a predefined area of a recorded feed for specific incidents.

Vehicle Detection – Similar to its capability for human detection, the BC500 camera extends its intelligent recognition to vehicles as well. This feature proves particularly useful in situations when the premises are closed, and an unexpected vehicle enters the vicinity. The surveillance system can be programmed to provide ‘out of hours’ alerts, notifying owners whenever vehicles approach their premises during closed or off hours. It’s an excellent way to ensure the security of your property when you’re not physically present.

Intrusion Detection – The BC500 camera takes intrusion detection a notch higher with its advanced features. Users can draw lines on the feed that can have multiple bend or break points, marking out specific areas as off-limits. This allows the system to monitor if people or vehicles cross into these forbidden zones. Thanks to edge AI recognition, you can customize this feature to fit your needs—for example, allowing an area to be entered by people but not vehicles or vice versa. This level of customization helps create ‘no go’ zones at specific times, further enhancing the security of your premises.

Crowd Detection – The BC500 camera’s recognition capabilities extend beyond just humans and vehicles. It also offers nuanced crowd detection. For instance, the system could be programmed to ignore one or two people in a predefined area. However, if that number increases to five or six, it could trigger an alert. This crowd detection feature enables you to set thresholds for alerts based on the number of people in a particular area, ensuring you’re notified only when necessary.

Loitering Detection – Similar to crowd detection, loitering detection is another impressive feature of the BC500 camera. This function enables the camera to alert you when an individual or vehicle remains within a predefined area for an unusually long period. People just passing by won’t trigger an alert, but if they loiter around for a while, the system will notify you. This helps you keep an eye on any potential suspicious activity around your premises.

Smart Search – This feature significantly enhances the surveillance process by allowing you to focus on a specific area within recorded feeds. For instance, you can set the system to alert you of any movement, person, or vehicle in a predetermined spot, such as a door, desk, or window. By combining Smart Search with Smart Time Lapse, you can sift through weeks of recordings in a fraction of the time, automatically identifying any noteworthy events in a particular spot. It allows you to retroactively apply advanced surveillance parameters, even if they weren’t set up at the time of recording.

While the BC500 camera is impressive, it’s important to note that it does not support database storage. It cannot store a reference of specific people or faces and vehicle registrations for future comparison when they appear in the feed, allowing alerts to be scaled accordingly. To access this kind of functionality, a DVA system such as the Synology DVA1622 2-Bay or DVA3221 4 Bay is necessary. Similarly, the BC500 camera cannot keep track of the number of people or objects crossing the set intrusion lines, making it impossible to maintain an accurate count—for instance, knowing who is in or out during a fire alarm. Thus, while the BC500 camera provides a range of advanced features, it has its limitations.

Recordings are sent via HTTPS/SRTP encryption to the NAS, are encrypted when recorded to the local memory card, and remain encrypted when backed up on the Surveillance C2 cloud service. Furthermore, the Synology BC500 camera is NDAA and TAA compliant, which gives it a distinct edge over lower-priced Chinese cameras. In conclusion, while the BC500 Camera does not match up to more expensive Deep Video Analysis systems like the DVA162/DVA3221, its exclusive features and exemption from surveillance licenses make it a compelling choice.

asa

Which AI Services Are Included with the Synology BC500 and TC500 Cameras (and which ones are not)?

Now, despite the Synology BC500 and TC500 Surveillance Cameras arriving with onboard hardware for AI-powered recognition tasks, it is worth highlighting that using them is NOT the same as using the Deep Video Analysis (DVA) series of NAS servers in Synology’s portfolio. These operations are managed from inside the camera and the alerts are handled and actioned by the NAS after the camera sends the appropriate alert – and these cameras so NOT have the same level of hardware as the DVA1622 and DVA3221 inside each of them! Additionally, whereas the DVA series manages multiple tasks internally from multiple cameras, only using the camera hardware as a life ‘feed’, these cameras cannot run deeper AI tasks that involve counting, internal database management and keeping records of AI referral data internally – they do not have the storage or processing power for that. So more complex people counting and specific facial recognition will not be immediately available to your PLUS series Diskstation, just because you are using the BC500 and/or TC500. Here is a breakdown of the services available to users with either Synology Cameras or a Synology DVA NAS:

If you are unaware of the Synology Deep Video Analysis NAS system, you can find out more about it in the video reviews of the hardware and software below from our YouTube channel:

Synology BC500 Camera Review – Conclusion & Verdict

Ultimately, the edge-based AI recognition that cameras, like the BC500 provide, is designed to minimize redundant or unsuitable alerts from your surveillance feeds. This optimization allows you to spend fewer man-hours checking on your surveillance setup unnecessarily and instead focus on genuinely useful alerts. This same efficiency applies when you leverage camera feed management in older recordings. If you find evidence of a security concern now, you can use that information to retroactively check old recordings, saving time by pinpointing relevant evidence and tailoring alerts accordingly. While Synology has set the pricing relatively high, they do so knowing that their software is among the best in the industry. The cameras are likely to be considered as part of a larger, single-ecosystem surveillance solution. Additionally, with cybersecurity concerns and debates over the sourcing of integral hardware at the forefront (for instance, the US-China Trade war), having cameras made outside of China (that is, TAA and NDAA compliant) works in Synology’s favor. Some users may also be swayed by the absence of an additional camera license fee when deploying a Synology BC500, although the savings here are modest, around $50 or so.

That said, the hardware inside these cameras is arguably lower-end compared to some of the more affordable Chinese models on the market, which offer higher resolution, sensor quality, pixel recording depth, and complexity. At present, Synology’s limited range of two models could constrain the scope of their deployment, but it’s clear that these are just the first of many cameras being introduced into this range. There is a distinct sense that these cameras are primarily aimed at business-class users. This focus makes sense considering the type of users who want to mass-deploy cameras and will realize the time savings from edge AI recognition (and DVA systems too). At this time, it’s hard to see many home users opting for these cameras at $250+ when they can find similar hardware for more than half that price from other IP camera brands. The emphasis on encryption/NDAA/TAA features also seems more relevant to businesses and home users with specific concerns about surveillance security footage being intercepted on the fly. In conclusion, the Synology BC500 is undoubtedly a good camera, and businesses of all sizes will quickly realize the benefits of its features and the accompanying Surveillance Station 9. However, home users might want to wait a bit longer to see if Synology expands the range to better serve their needs, much like their J, Play, Value, and Plus series have done.

Synology BC500 PROS	Synology BC500 CONS
Unparalleled Synology Surveillance Station Integration Also, Surveillance station is 10/10 on its own NDAA/TAA Compliant, unlike many budget alternatives (HTTPS/SRTP Support Recording Options) Edge Recording Object Recognition is incredibly useful Person/Car Loitering and Crowd gathering monitoring does not get enough credit for how useful it is! No Additional Camera License Requirements Sturdy and Solid Build Quality EXCEPTIONALLY FAST and EASY first-time setup Sub 5W use over PoE typically 3 Year Hardware Warranty and Effective Lifetime Software Warranty Edge Recording and C2 Surveillance Cloud Recording Support Smart Search is a gamechanger for precise retroactive searching Intrusion Mapping is intuitive and very customizable in it’s design Noise Detection (custom threshold) is exceptionally useful and often overlooked	More than double the cost of 3rd party similar cameras Good, but not top-tier night vision Only 2 Models in the Synology Camera range limit the scope of deployment Can only be used with Synology NAS Systems No PoE Mains power Injector or SD Card included, which at this price seems poor Somewhat cancelled out by the Synology DVA1622 with Deep Video Analysis at $599

If you are thinking of buying a Synology NAS, please use the links below as it results in us at NASCompares receiving an affiliate fee from Amazon:

Need More Help Choosing the Right NAS?

Choosing the right data storage solution for your needs can be very intimidating and it’s never too late to ask for help. With options ranging from NAS to DAS, Thunderbolt to SAS and connecting everything up so you can access all your lovely data at the touch of a button can be a lot simpler than you think. If you want some tips, guidance or help with everything from compatibility to suitability of a solution for you, why not drop me a message below and I will get back to you as soon as possible with what you should go for, its suitability and the best place to get it. This service is designed without profit in mind and in order to help you with your data storage needs, so I will try to answer your questions as soon as possible.

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Welcome to our review of the Synology DVA1622 surveillance NAS, a device that stands out from the crowd with its impressive AI-assisted features, yet still runs on the well-known DiskStation Manager (DSM) platform. Synology has made a name for itself in the NAS arena, and their devices are often the first choice for those venturing into home or business network-attached storage. One of Synology’s standout features is the inclusion of its award-winning Surveillance Station NVR/CCTV software, currently at version 9.1, with all its NAS devices.Ho wever, the degree to which you can leverage the Surveillance Station depends heavily on the hardware specifications of your NAS. Here’s where the Synology DVA series, including the DVA3221 and our focus today, the DVA1622, sets itself apart. These devices utilize AI to analyze surveillance camera feeds live, offering features like person, vehicle, face, and license plate recognition, as well as people and vehicle counting, intrusion zone detection, and more. At a price tag of $599, the DVA1622 is about $199 more expensive than the more traditional DSM NAS systems such as the Synology DS720+ and DS723+ 2-Bay. But it offers additional surveillance services and comes with 8 camera licenses, compared to the 2 licenses typically included with other NAS devices. The question we’ll be answering in this review is: does the DVA1622 justify the extra cost with its enhanced surveillance capabilities? Stay tuned to find out.

Synology DVA1622 NAS Review – Quick Conclusion

In conclusion, the Synology DVA1622 makes a compelling case for being the best 2-Bay NAS from Synology, despite its price increase over the DS720+ and DS723+. Its ability to run DSM 7.2 on par with its counterparts, while also executing Surveillance Station exceptionally well, sets it apart from the crowd. The added benefits of AI recognition, live AI analysis of recordings, people counting, and intelligent intrusion guidelines are features that can be invaluable to businesses and home users who prioritize their security. Along with these perks, the 8 included surveillance licenses, a significant bump from the 2 that come with other Synology NAS devices, provide excellent value, considering they would cost around $200-250 on their own. The integrated graphics within its CPU offers enhanced multimedia playback capabilities, not only in DSM but also in HEVC recordings in Surveillance Station 9.1. Additionally, the local HDMI/KVM support grants standalone surveillance access, a feature rarely found in other Synology NAS devices. The DVA1622 outclasses the DS720+ by coming with 6GB of memory in its default model, compared to their 2GB. This robust offering, combined with the excellence of Surveillance Station 9.1, one of the world’s best surveillance software, enables the DVA1622 to deliver one of the best experiences of this software. Access to both DSM and Surveillance Station on the DVA1622 equips you with a full suite of NVR/CCTV services, as well as the backup, syncing, sharing, and security capabilities of DSM 7.2. However, the device isn’t without its limitations. It has only two USB ports, which may limit your flexibility for KVM setup with the HDMI and other USB-dependent tasks. Its single 1GbE port could potentially bottleneck your network, especially when running extensive camera setups and other network-heavy tasks. Additionally, the maximum memory of 6GB could hit a ceiling if you are running several services in DSM 7.2, operating 16 cameras, and managing 2 AI tasks simultaneously, considering the CPU supports up to 8GB. The lack of expandability with the Synology DX517 expansion chassis also limits storage potential, with a 2-Bay NAS typically implying a RAID 1 setup and halving the possible maximum storage. Despite these limitations, the DVA1622 stands as an excellent choice for a 2-Bay NAS. It is highly recommended for both surveillance and standard Synology DSM usage. However, it is essential to remember its lack of local connectivity and scalability when compared to the DS723+, which offers 32GB maximum.

SOFTWARE - 10/10

HARDWARE - 8/10

PERFORMANCE - 8/10

PRICE - 9/10

VALUE - 9/10

8.8

PROS

Runs BOTH Surveillance Station + DSM
All the DVA Task for fraction of DVA3221 Price
Supports Local KVM Standalone Access
8 Camera Licenses Included
No HDD Compatibility Limits
Run VERY Quietly
MASSIVE IP Camera Support List
Easily the \'BEST\' Synology 2-Bay
Surveillance Station 9.1 Is Still BRILLIANT

CONS

Cannot be Expanded
6GB Default/Max Memory is Weird
CPU is a little old
No M.2 NVMe SSD Support
Only 2x AI Tasks at once
Only 1x Network Port (no failover)

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Synology DVA1622 NAS Review – Packaging

The retail packaging for this product follows the typical Synology style, characterized by its simplicity and focus on sustainability. The materials used are almost entirely recyclable, reducing the environmental impact of the product’s packaging. The box is clearly labeled, showing exactly what’s inside, and offers comprehensive details about the system’s unique surveillance capabilities, printed on each edge of the box.

The box and internal structure are made just of cardboard, which aligns with Synology’s commitment to eco-friendly practices. However, this material choice, while great for the environment, does mean that the box is somewhat flimsy and may not hold up well under rough handling. But, it’s worth noting that the relatively lightweight nature of the Network Attached Storage (NAS) unit itself means this isn’t a significant problem in most shipping contexts.

This is a rather light NAS, and it’s shipped without any drives installed, so the flimsiness of the box is not much of an issue during shipping, realistically speaking. Despite the somewhat fragile nature of the packaging, the NAS unit should be perfectly secure within the box throughout the shipping process, given its light weight and the protective packing materials used. Therefore, the packaging’s environmental friendliness outweighs any minor concerns about its durability.

Inside the box, you’ll find a familiar assortment of accessories that typically come with any Synology 2 Bay NAS. This includes a 60W PSU, an RJ45 Cable, screws, manuals, information about the 3-year warranty, tray keys, and of course, the DVA1622 NAS unit itself. These components are all essential for setting up and using the DVA1622, ensuring that users have everything they need to get started.

The power supply unit (PSU) is an external 60W brick, which is branded with the Synology logo. This kind of PSU is fairly standard for compact, desktop, 2-bay HDD NAS systems. It’s designed to provide reliable and consistent power to the NAS, ensuring optimal operation and longevity of the unit. As a whole, the retail kit may come across as a bit mundane, but it is nonetheless sturdy and mindful of the environment. More importantly, it includes all the components that most users will need to set up and start using the DVA1622. The only thing missing, as is standard with NAS units, is the storage media which users can choose based on their specific requirements.

Synology DVA1622 NAS Review – Design

The design of the DVA1622 takes a lot of inspiration from the Synology DS720+ and DS723+ NAS units. These two models are less focused on surveillance but still fall under the category of prosumer 2-Bay NAS solutions. Despite borrowing heavily from these designs, the DVA1622 does feature its own unique elements tailored for its surveillance-oriented functionality.

The outer casing of the DVA1622 is made entirely of plastic, although it does incorporate a metal internal framework for added durability. It measures 166 mm x 106 mm x 223 mm, making it a compact device, and without drives, it weighs just 1.5KG. This combination of dimensions and weight makes the DVA1622 portable and convenient to place in various locations.

The DVA1622 is well-ventilated, featuring vents on nearly all its sides. These vents are strategically placed around the main storage bays, there’s a controller board vent on the base, and even the Synology logo on either side is vented. This level of ventilation, combined with the active rear fan, allows for effective cooling during round-the-clock operation.

This NAS features two storage bays that are designed to be hot-swappable. This allows users to replace or upgrade drives without having to shut down the system, providing seamless operation. The DVA1622 can run either half or fully populated with SATA Hard Drives or SSDs, providing users with a certain degree of flexibility in configuring their storage.

The drive trays utilize a click and load design, meaning no screwdriver is required for installation unless SSDs are used. This design feature simplifies the process of setting up and upgrading drives, making the DVA1622 more user-friendly. Furthermore, it officially supports up to 18TB HDDs from manufacturers like Seagate, WD, Toshiba, and Synology’s own HAT5300 and HAT3300 drives, though testing also showed compatibility with 20TB and 22TB HDDs from WD and Seagate.

One notable omission from the DVA1622’s design is the lack of any M.2 NVMe SSD bays. These bays are typically used for installing faster storage devices for caching or tiered storage. However, the inside of the Synology DVA1622 does have the PCIe connector that usually hosts the m.2 board, as seen in the DS720+/DS723+ models.

At the front of the system, there’s a USB port intended for local backups. This is a convenient feature for users who want to secure their data through physical backups. To make this process easier, the DSM operating system on the NAS provides several apps, like USB Copy and Hyper Backup, that can automatically manage these backups.

Unlike some other models, the DVA1622 doesn’t feature an LCD panel. Instead, it opts for LEDs that indicate the health of the system, drives, and network. These LEDs can be dimmed or deactivated as needed, offering users the ability to customize the system’s visual alerts based on their preferences.

The external design of the DVA1622 largely mirrors that of the DS720+/DS723+. The similarities in design language are evident, with differences mainly lying in the specific features each model offers. To understand the real differences between the DVA1622 and the DS720+/DS723+, it’s necessary to look at the ports, which also account for the approximate $199 price difference between the models.

Synology DVA1622 NAS Review – Ports and Connections

The DVA1622’s ports present a mix of positive and negative aspects, especially when compared with other 2-Bay NAS models in the market. There are numerous ports to accommodate various needs, but some users may find certain aspects lacking. Despite this, it provides a satisfactory range of connectivity options for the average user.

Like other models, the DVA1622 has the same single 80mm rear fan. This fan’s RPM automatically adjusts according to the system’s temperature requirements, which aids in maintaining optimal operating conditions. If necessary, users also have the option to manually adjust the fan’s speed.

The system only features a single network connection, unlike the DS720+ which has dual LAN. This means features like SMB multichannel, port trunking, and network failover aren’t possible with the DVA1622. The lack of a 10GbE upgrade option, which is present in the DS723+ NAS, is another difference.

The 1GbE network connection isn’t a significant dealbreaker, but having up to 16 cameras sharing this connection and the system’s up/down access by sys admins might be a concern for users operating higher-quality cameras in Surveillance Station 9. This could become a problem particularly if they’re on ’24×7 recording and alerts’ mode. Therefore, users would need to carefully consider their surveillance needs before deciding on the DVA1622.

This system supports KVM, with an HDMI 2.0 (4K 60FPS) output, which can exclusively be used for Surveillance Station. This means that in addition to local network and remote access to the surveillance setup, users can have local/direct access whenever necessary. This can be beneficial for faster/high-quality feed access or in the event of network issues.

One downside is that there’s another USB port, which means for a keyboard/video/mouse local standalone setup (which is the precise reason for the HDMI support here), you would lose all USB access unless you use a hub. This could potentially limit the system’s functionality in certain setups. Therefore, users would need to keep this limitation in mind when planning their setup. Another design decision that might be disappointing for some users is the lack of an expansion slot. Both the DS720+ and DS723+ have eSATA ports for the DX517 expansion chassis, which allows for the addition of 5 more bays. This means users of the DVA1622 are limited to the built-in storage bays, which could constrain their storage capacity, especially considering the likelihood of using a RAID1/SHR setup that effectively halves storage potential.

Given that this is a 2-Bay NAS, the scope for archiving your recordings is somewhat limited, presenting a lower glass ceiling than many non-surveillance NAS. This could be a concern for users who need a large amount of storage for long-term archiving of high-definition surveillance footage. However, for users with moderate storage needs, this should not be a significant issue. Overall, the ports and connections of the DVA1622 are satisfactory, but there are many missed opportunities in scalability for network bandwidth and storage that other Synology 2-Bay NAS models handle better. Therefore, users looking for greater scalability may want to consider other options. It’s now time to delve into the specifics of the internal hardware.

Synology DVA1622 NAS Review – Internal Hardware

Internally, the DVA1622 uses a setup that’s almost identical to the Synology DS720+ released in 2020, but with a few notable differences. One difference is that it lacks the m.2 connections but has a higher base memory. This gives the DVA1622 a unique combination of features that differentiate it from other models.

The DVA1622 is powered by an x86 Intel J4125 Celeron CPU, which operates at a speed of 2.0-2.7Ghz, features integrated graphics, and has a 4-Core, 4 Thread configuration. This CPU has been heavily used by Synology in other releases, including the DS423+ model. However, it is beginning to show its age a little now.

Unlike the Intel Atom powered DVA3221 4-Bay (which boasts an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 graphics card), the DVA1622 relies on the CPU’s integrated graphics for its AI surveillance tasks. This limits the number of active AI deep analysis tasks to 2x at any given time, compared to the 8-12x tasks that the DVA3221 can handle. But it’s worth noting that despite this limitation, the DVA1622 still offers impressive performance for most use cases.

It’s important to note that the DVA1622 can also run everything in DSM, Synology’s operating system. This allows users to enjoy a full and polished DSM 7.2 experience in addition to their Surveillance Station 9.1 experience. This makes the DVA1622 an attractive option for users who want a versatile NAS that’s capable of handling a wide range of tasks.

The DVA1622 comes with 6GB of non-ecc, Synology-branded DDR4 memory. While this is slightly odd considering the CPU supports up to 8GB (and Synology supported up to 6GB in the DS720+), it is a nice step up from the 2GB the DS720+ arrived with by default. This additional memory can prove beneficial in handling simultaneous tasks. One of the standout features of the DVA1622 is its deep learning AI capability. This feature enables advanced image recognition and analysis, making it a powerful tool for security surveillance applications. Despite its few limitations and a higher price tag compared to its non-surveillance counterparts, the DVA1622 still holds significant appeal for users looking for a compact, user-friendly NAS with impressive surveillance capabilities

Synology DVA1622 NAS Review – DSM 7.2 and Surveillance Station 9.1

The Synology DVA1622 Surveillance NAS Server has been specifically designed to optimally perform with Synology Surveillance Station, which is currently on version 9.1.1. The DVA1622’s seamless integration with Surveillance Station delivers an advanced functionality that far surpasses the features provided by non-edge-AI-recognition NAS servers.

The DVA1622, when synchronized with Surveillance Station, supports a multitude of services that dramatically elevate your surveillance experience. It enables access to live feed from multiple cameras (monitoring center), which can be configured to accommodate several cameras on screen simultaneously. Moreover, it allows for simultaneous viewing of live feeds and previous recordings within the software.

Additionally, the Surveillance Station allows for the application of privacy masks and watermarks on the feed. It also facilitates the upload of eMaps and integrates seamlessly with third-party mapping services like Google Maps and OpenMaps.

Surveillance Station isn’t merely confined to NAS server support. It extends control to IP speakers, door controls, and I/O supported peripherals. Users can access the system swiftly and intuitively via a mobile app, even transforming their mobile into another surveillance feed with Synology Live Cam. The system also supports alerts and push notifications for specific events, and generates downloadable analytical reports.

The Surveillance Station expands its functionality through a host of additional add-ons. These include YouTube Live Streaming, video integrity tools, transaction checking, and IFTTT/Webhook services.

It also includes features like motion detection, missing object detection, idle zone monitoring, and foreign object area tagging. Access to the Surveillance Station is conveniently provided through web browsers, desktop clients, and mobile clients, either over the local network or remotely.

One standout feature is Smart Lapse creation, which enables you to condense extensive recording periods into rapid sequences. This tool allows you to condense a full day’s footage into a few minutes for quick scanning. Additionally, the DVA1622 supports cloud recording with Synology C2 Surveillance (available with a free trial, then on a subscription basis).

The Surveillance Station also includes a Home Mode, which automatically initiates camera schedules when a defined user exits or enters the premises using WiFi links. More details on these features can be found in our review of Synology Surveillance Station 9.1 on our YouTube channel below.

The DVA1622 NAS server, in collaboration with Surveillance Station, supports advanced AI detection techniques such as people detection, vehicle detection, intrusion detection, crowd detection, and loitering detection. It also incorporates a Smart Search feature that lets you search a predefined area of a recorded feed for specific incidents.

Vehicle Detection – Similar to human detection capabilities, the DVA1622 NAS server extends its intelligent recognition to vehicles as well. This feature proves especially useful when the premises are closed, and an unexpected vehicle enters the vicinity. The surveillance system can be programmed to provide ‘out of hours’ alerts, notifying owners whenever vehicles approach their premises during closed or off hours. This is an excellent way to ensure the security of your property when you’re not physically present.

Intrusion Detection – The DVA1622 takes intrusion detection up a notch with its advanced features. Users can draw lines on the feed that can have multiple bend or break points, marking out specific areas as off-limits. This allows the system to monitor if people or vehicles cross into these forbidden zones. Thanks to edge AI recognition, you can customize this feature to suit your needs—for example, allowing an area to be entered by people but not vehicles or vice versa. This level of customization helps create ‘no go’ zones at specific times, further enhancing the security of your premises.

Crowd Detection – The DVA1622’s recognition capabilities extend beyond just humans and vehicles. It also offers nuanced crowd detection. For instance, the system could be programmed to ignore one or two people in a predefined area. However, if that number increases to five or six, it could trigger an alert. This crowd detection feature enables you to set thresholds for alerts based on the number of people in a particular area, ensuring you’re notified only when necessary.

Loitering Detection – Similar to crowd detection, loitering detection is another impressive feature of the DVA1622. This function enables the server to alert you when an individual or vehicle remains within a predefined area for an unusually long period. People just passing by won’t trigger an alert, but if they loiter around for a while, the system will notify you. This helps you keep an eye on any potential suspicious activity around your premises.

Smart Search – This feature significantly enhances the surveillance process by allowing you to focus on a specific area within recorded feeds. For instance, you can set the system to alert you of any movement, person, or vehicle in a predetermined spot, such as a door, desk, or window. By combining Smart Search with Smart Time Lapse, you can sift through weeks of recordings in a fraction of the time, automatically identifying any noteworthy events in a particular spot. It allows you to retroactively apply advanced surveillance parameters, even if they weren’t set up at the time of recording.

In the last few months, Synology have rolled out their own Surveillance cameras in the BC500 and TC500, both of which arrive with edge AI recognition and do not require a surveillance camera license in use with a NAS (DVA1622 included). This has arguably undermined some of the appeal and value of deep video analysis NAS such as the DVA1622, however these cameras have one very significant limitation. For instance, they do not support database storage. They cannot store a reference of specific people or faces and vehicle registrations for future comparison when they appear in the feed, allowing alerts to be scaled accordingly.

To access this kind of functionality, a DVA system such as the Synology DVA1622. or DVA3221 4-Bay is necessary. Similarly, the Synology Cmaeras cannot keep track of the number of people or objects crossing the set intrusion lines, making it impossible to maintain an accurate count—for instance, knowing who is in or out during a fire alarm. This is where live AI analysis NAS like the DVA1622 shine.

Recordings are sent via HTTPS/SRTP encryption to the NAS, encrypted when recorded to the local memory, and remain encrypted when backed up on the Surveillance C2 cloud service. In conclusion, while the DVA1622 Surveillance NAS Server may not match more expensive Deep Video Analysis systems like the DVA3221, its unique features compared with other more affordable 2-bays, yet inclusive 8 licenses and surveillance AI analysis tasks make it a compelling choice.

However, it’s worth keeping in mind that there is more to the DVA1622 NAS than Surveillance Station, as it also includes the full DSM 7.2 applications and services. Now, to cover the WHOLE Synology DSM software and services that are included with the DVA1622 NAS would result in a review that is twice as long as this review so far! Synology’s Diskstation Manager software that comes with this device (either DSM 7 or DSM 6.2 depending on your preference) provides a massive arrangement of services, applications (first and third-party supported) and a huge number of client applications for Desktop clients, Mobile, Windows, Mac and Linux (as well as a bunch of other more home-based tools). These allow management and access to the data on the DVA1622 in very tailored ways, as well as the web browser-based access that has the appearance, intuitive design and responsiveness of a local operating system. The DSM interface can be accessed by hundreds of users at the same time (with each user having tailored access, rights and privileges). DSM is available with ALL Synology NAS and the depth and abilities of DSM on any NAS are dependent on the hardware architecture of the NAS itself. In the case of the Synology DVA1622, it supports practically EVERYTHING (with the exception of SHR, as previously mentioned). If you want to learn about the latest version of DSM 7 and the software and services that are included with the DVA1622 NAS, watch my FULL review below (alternatively, you can read the DSM 7 Full Review HERE):

As mentioned, the DVA1622 supports pretty much the entirety of the DSM 7 and DSM 6.2 applications and services. If you are an existing user of SaaS and PaaS (Software as a service and Platform as a service) from the likes of Google Workspace and Office 365, knowing that you can synchronize these systems or choose to export away from them onto the Synology services is going to be very appealing. Key business applications that are included with your NAS are:

Synology DVA1622 NAS Review – Conclusion & Verdict

In conclusion, the Synology DVA1622 makes a compelling case for being the best 2-Bay NAS from Synology, despite its price increase over the DS720+ and DS723+. Its ability to run DSM 7.2 on par with its counterparts, while also executing Surveillance Station exceptionally well, sets it apart from the crowd. The added benefits of AI recognition, live AI analysis of recordings, people counting, and intelligent intrusion guidelines are features that can be invaluable to businesses and home users who prioritize their security. Along with these perks, the 8 included surveillance licenses, a significant bump from the 2 that come with other Synology NAS devices, provide excellent value, considering they would cost around $200-250 on their own. The integrated graphics within its CPU offers enhanced multimedia playback capabilities, not only in DSM but also in HEVC recordings in Surveillance Station 9.1. Additionally, the local HDMI/KVM support grants standalone surveillance access, a feature rarely found in other Synology NAS devices. The DVA1622 outclasses the DS720+ by coming with 6GB of memory in its default model, compared to their 2GB. This robust offering, combined with the excellence of Surveillance Station 9.1, one of the world’s best surveillance software, enables the DVA1622 to deliver one of the best experiences of this software.

Access to both DSM and Surveillance Station on the DVA1622 equips you with a full suite of NVR/CCTV services, as well as the backup, syncing, sharing, and security capabilities of DSM 7.2. However, the device isn’t without its limitations. It has only two USB ports, which may limit your flexibility for KVM setup with the HDMI and other USB-dependent tasks. Its single 1GbE port could potentially bottleneck your network, especially when running extensive camera setups and other network-heavy tasks. Additionally, the maximum memory of 6GB could hit a ceiling if you are running several services in DSM 7.2, operating 16 cameras, and managing 2 AI tasks simultaneously, considering the CPU supports up to 8GB. The lack of expandability with the Synology DX517 expansion chassis also limits storage potential, with a 2-Bay NAS typically implying a RAID 1 setup and halving the possible maximum storage. Despite these limitations, the DVA1622 stands as an excellent choice for a 2-Bay NAS. It is highly recommended for both surveillance and standard Synology DSM usage. However, it is essential to remember its lack of local connectivity and scalability when compared to the DS723+, which offers 32GB maximum.

Synology DVA1622 PROS	Synology DVA1622 CONS
Runs BOTH Surveillance Station + DSM All the DVA Task for fraction of DVA3221 Price Supports Local KVM Standalone Access 8 Camera Licenses Included No HDD Compatibility Limits Run VERY Quietly MASSIVE IP Camera Support List Easily the ‘BEST’ Synology 2-Bay Surveillance Station 9.1 Is Still BRILLIANT	Cannot be Expanded 6GB Default/Max Memory is Weird CPU is a little old No M.2 NVMe SSD Support Only 2x AI Tasks at once Only 1x Network Port (no failover)

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Finally, for free advice about your setup, just leave a message in the comments below here at NASCompares.com and we will get back to you. Need Help? Where possible (and where appropriate) please provide as much information about your requirements, as then I can arrange the best answer and solution to your needs. Do not worry about your e-mail address being required, it will NOT be used in a mailing list and will NOT be used in any way other than to respond to your enquiry. [contact-form-7] TRY CHAT Terms and Conditions

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Alternatively, why not ask me on the ASK NASCompares forum, by clicking the button below. This is a community hub that serves as a place that I can answer your question, chew the fat, share new release information and even get corrections posted. I will always get around to answering ALL queries, but as a one-man operation, I cannot promise speed! So by sharing your query in the ASK NASCompares section below, you can get a better range of solutions and suggestions, alongside my own.

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When Synology first revealed that they were going to be releasing their own surveillance cameras, many users (myself included, arguably louder than many) that this was long, LONG overdue. But why exactly is the Synology BC500 Camera a big deal? Pretty much all of the premium NAS brands (not just Synology) provide turnkey products that are a combination hardware+software solutions. Although this software includes a lot of backend services and popular tools to maintain your data, they also include surveillance camera software that allows you to use your NAS as a NVR/CCTV central hub. Running parallel with the rest of the NAS services, these surveillance services that are included with most NAS have often been the main motivation for their purchase (or make up a decent % of the intended use and therefore result in a better ROI by the buyer), with Synology’s Surveillance Station software largely considered to be the very best of the bunch! However, till now, NAS brands would never directly recommend a singular camera brand/model.. they would recommend one of the 7000-8000 compatibility cameras (of varying price, quality, services, etc), but that was about it. Therefore when Synology took the big step in actually releasing their own single ecosystem cameras for Surveillance station, a lot of ‘all in one’ solution buyers were very happy indeed! Likewise, a 1st party camera largely ensures top-tier service and long-term support in the software too. It also means that you don’t need a camera license for the camera either, as support and staying onto of compatibility is integrated in the software itself. Plus, unlike a lot of budget cameras on the market predominantly coming out of China, the BC500 arrive TAA and NDAA compliant (so, must more appealing to IU.S Businesses and users with concerns of security and production conditions). So, what’s the catch? Well, when we saw that the Synology BC500 Camera was rolling out with a $250+ price tag, that was something of a surprise. Camera licenses, support, security, warranty’s and compatibility aside – that is more than double the cost of similar camera hardware from the likes of Reolink, Hikvision, Edimax and more. So, today we want to dig into the Synology BC500 Camera in our review and help you decide if they are safe enough for your data!

You can find our Synology BC500 Camera Review on YouTube HERE

Check Amazon for the Synology BC500 and TC500 Cameras

Synology BC500 Camera – HERE

Synology TC500 Camera – HERE

Synology BC500 and TC500 IP Camera Specification Highlights:

• BC500 = Compact Style IP Camera
• TC500 = Dome Style IP Camera
• Resolution: 5MP – 2880×1620 – 30FPS
• Horizontal angle: 110 degrees
• Weatherproof standard with IP67
• Nightvision  covers 30 Metres
• SRTP/HTTPS support for enhanced security of video streams
• Complies with US NDAA/TAA standards
• Intelligent vehicle and person detection
• Integrate seamlessly with Surveillance Station, enhancing the seamless surveillance management experience
• Encrypted recordings
• SD Card Slot

Synology BC500 Camera Review – Quick Conclusion

The edge-based AI recognition of cameras like the BC500 is designed to minimize unnecessary alerts from surveillance feeds, maximizing efficiency and time management. Despite Synology’s high pricing, its superior software and commitment to cybersecurity (with TAA and NDAA-compliant cameras) could justify the cost for many users. However, compared to some affordable models in the market, Synology’s cameras might lack in terms of hardware like resolution and sensor quality. These cameras seem primarily designed for business-class users, given their value for mass-deployed surveillance systems and edge AI recognition. Home users, who could find comparable hardware for less, might find less appeal, especially considering Synology’s current limited model range and the emphasis on security features more relevant to businesses. The Synology BC500 offers tangible benefits for businesses, but home users might want to wait for Synology to expand its range to cater more to their needs.

SOFTWARE - 10/10

HARDWARE - 7/10

PERFORMANCE - 9/10

PRICE - 7/10

VALUE - 8/10

8.2

PROS

Unparalleled Synology Surveillance Station Integration
Also, Surveillance station is 10/10 on its own
NDAA/TAA Compliant, unlike many budget alternatives (HTTPS/SRTP Support Recording Options)
Edge Recording Object Recognition is incredibly useful
Person/Car Loitering and Crowd gathering monitoring does not get enough credit for how useful it is!
No Additional Camera License Requirements
Sturdy and Solid Build Quality
EXCEPTIONALLY FAST and EASY first-time setup
Sub 5W use over PoE typically
3 Year Hardware Warranty and Effective Lifetime Software Warranty
Edge Recording and C2 Surveillance Cloud Recording Support
Smart Search is a gamechanger for precise retroactive searching
Intrusion Mapping is intuitive and very customizable in it\'s design
Noise Detection (custom threshold) is exceptionally useful and often overlooked

CONS

More than double the cost of 3rd party similar cameras
Good, but not top-tier night vision
Only 2 Models in the Synology Camera range limit the scope of deployment
Can only be used with Synology NAS Systems
No PoE Mains power Injector or SD Card included, which at this price seems poor
Somewhat cancelled out by the Synology DVA1622 with Deep Video Analysis at $599

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Synology BC500 Camera Review – Packaging

Upon first look, the BC500 retail box is very ‘on brand’. True to the Synology house style, the packaging is almost completely recyclable, clearly labeled and very modern – an aesthetic that’s stylishly minimalist and straightforward.

The box’s sides are amply covered with detailed information specific to the BC500 camera. This presentation is impressively neat, particularly for a product traditionally not associated with such looking nice at the retail level.

The camera kit itself includes the BC500 camera, a quick-start setup guide, a wall guide for installation, screws, raw plugs, and a waterproof cable cover.

Unfortunately, the package lacks a Power over Ethernet (PoE) injector for mains power. Considering the camera’s price tag of $250-300, this omission is a bit disappointing.

Nonetheless, the BC500 camera comes with a 3-year hardware warranty and offers lifetime support in Synology Surveillance station, which is probably going to matter more to most users who plan on having this camera deployed for 5-10 years without thinking about it. All in all, the BC500 is packaged neatly and practically, setting the stage for the camera’s design and functionality.

Synology BC500 Camera Review – Design

The BC500 camera boasts a rugged, compact design. It’s noticeably shorter in the main barrel compared to other bullet-style cameras, which comes as a pleasant surprise. The Synology logo is imprinted on either side of the device, and it sports a slightly protruding top panel designed to shield the lens from rainfall during operation.

However, it’s worth noting that unlike its counterpart, the TC500 Turret-style camera, the BC500 isn’t rated IK10 vandal-proof. Although this won’t be an issue for some users, it’s something to remember when comparing these two for specific setups. Still, it is IP67 weatherproof, demonstrating Synology’s commitment to durability.

The BC500 has a robust rotating base joint/bracket that offers flexibility for different deployment scenarios. The base is constructed of metal and employs a three-screw design. Even though the kit doesn’t include an additional wall mounting bracket (only a paper wall sticker is provided), it does come with the necessary screws and raw plugs for outdoor deployment.

A removable panel at the bottom of the camera reveals an SD card slot supporting up to 128GB and a reset button. This SD card slot allows edge recording. In the event of a network error or an unreachable target surveillance NAS, it will record directly onto the SD card and then resync the recordings with the NAS when the connection is restored.

The BC500 features a considerably large lens surface area, with a status LED on the top right and a microphone on the top left. This microphone can be used to record audio alongside the video feed. Moreover, the BC500 supports Audio Detection, allowing the user to be alerted when noise exceeds a certain threshold.

The BC500 camera can record at 2880×1620 resolution at 30 FPS, or a substream at 1920×1080 @ 15 FPS or 1280×720 @ 30 FPS, using either H.264 or H.265 (also known as HEVC).

Unfortunately, given its price tag, the 5 Megapixel/5MP lens is slightly underwhelming when you consider that you can buy 4K cameras with optical zoom at a lower price point. That said, there is a large amount of adjustment possible in the Surveillance station software:

There is no denying that the Synology BC500 camera lens and recording quality maximum is a little underwhelming for the price point, however, the image clarity is nevertheless commendable and should satisfy the needs of most users.

Synology BC500 Camera Review – Surveillance Software and Services

The Synology BC500 camera is specifically engineered to provide optimal performance with Synology Surveillance Station, the current version being 9.1.1. The camera’s integration with Surveillance Station offers advanced functionality that outshines the features provided by third-party and non-edge-AI-recognition cameras.

The BC500 camera, when paired with Surveillance Station, supports a plethora of services that transform your security experience. It provides access to live camera feed (monitoring center), which can be scaled to accommodate several cameras on screen simultaneously. You can also view live feeds and previous recordings side-by-side on the software.

Additionally, the Surveillance Station allows for privacy mask and watermark applications on the feed.

It also supports the upload of eMaps and integrates with third-party mapping services like Google Maps and OpenMaps.

Surveillance Station isn’t limited to camera support. It also provides control for IP speakers, door controls, and I/O supported peripherals. Users can access the system swiftly and intuitively via a mobile app, and even use their mobile as another surveillance camera feed with Synology Live Cam. Alerts and push notifications can be scheduled for specific events, and the system generates downloadable analytical reports.

The Surveillance Station further extends its functionality with an array of additional add-ons. These range from YouTube Live Streaming and video integrity tools to transaction checking and IFTTT/Webhook services.

It also offers features like motion detection, missing object detection, idle zone monitoring, and foreign object area tagging. Access to the Surveillance Station is conveniently provided through web browsers, desktop clients, and mobile clients, either over the local network or remotely.

One of the key features is the Smart Lapse creation, which lets you truncate long periods of recording into speedy sequences. For example, you can turn a full day’s footage into a few minutes for quick scanning. It also supports cloud recording with Synology C2 Surveillance (available with a free trial, then on a subscription basis).

The Surveillance Station also offers a Home Mode, which allows automated camera schedules to kick in when a defined user exits or enters the premises using WiFi links. More details on these features can be found in our review of Synology Surveillance Station 9.1 on our YouTube channel:

The BC500 camera, paired with Surveillance Station, supports sophisticated AI detection techniques like people detection, vehicle detection, intrusion detection, crowd detection, and loitering detection. It also offers a Smart Search feature that lets you search a predefined area of a recorded feed for specific incidents.

Vehicle Detection – Similar to its capability for human detection, the BC500 camera extends its intelligent recognition to vehicles as well. This feature proves particularly useful in situations when the premises are closed, and an unexpected vehicle enters the vicinity. The surveillance system can be programmed to provide ‘out of hours’ alerts, notifying owners whenever vehicles approach their premises during closed or off hours. It’s an excellent way to ensure the security of your property when you’re not physically present.

Intrusion Detection – The BC500 camera takes intrusion detection a notch higher with its advanced features. Users can draw lines on the feed that can have multiple bend or break points, marking out specific areas as off-limits. This allows the system to monitor if people or vehicles cross into these forbidden zones. Thanks to edge AI recognition, you can customize this feature to fit your needs—for example, allowing an area to be entered by people but not vehicles or vice versa. This level of customization helps create ‘no go’ zones at specific times, further enhancing the security of your premises.

Crowd Detection – The BC500 camera’s recognition capabilities extend beyond just humans and vehicles. It also offers nuanced crowd detection. For instance, the system could be programmed to ignore one or two people in a predefined area. However, if that number increases to five or six, it could trigger an alert. This crowd detection feature enables you to set thresholds for alerts based on the number of people in a particular area, ensuring you’re notified only when necessary.

Loitering Detection – Similar to crowd detection, loitering detection is another impressive feature of the BC500 camera. This function enables the camera to alert you when an individual or vehicle remains within a predefined area for an unusually long period. People just passing by won’t trigger an alert, but if they loiter around for a while, the system will notify you. This helps you keep an eye on any potential suspicious activity around your premises.

Smart Search – This feature significantly enhances the surveillance process by allowing you to focus on a specific area within recorded feeds. For instance, you can set the system to alert you of any movement, person, or vehicle in a predetermined spot, such as a door, desk, or window. By combining Smart Search with Smart Time Lapse, you can sift through weeks of recordings in a fraction of the time, automatically identifying any noteworthy events in a particular spot. It allows you to retroactively apply advanced surveillance parameters, even if they weren’t set up at the time of recording.

While the BC500 camera is impressive, it’s important to note that it does not support database storage. It cannot store a reference of specific people or faces and vehicle registrations for future comparison when they appear in the feed, allowing alerts to be scaled accordingly. To access this kind of functionality, a DVA system such as the Synology DVA1622 2-Bay or DVA3221 4 Bay is necessary. Similarly, the BC500 camera cannot keep track of the number of people or objects crossing the set intrusion lines, making it impossible to maintain an accurate count—for instance, knowing who is in or out during a fire alarm. Thus, while the BC500 camera provides a range of advanced features, it has its limitations.

Recordings are sent via HTTPS/SRTP encryption to the NAS, are encrypted when recorded to the local memory card, and remain encrypted when backed up on the Surveillance C2 cloud service. Furthermore, the Synology BC500 camera is NDAA and TAA compliant, which gives it a distinct edge over lower-priced Chinese cameras. In conclusion, while the BC500 Camera does not match up to more expensive Deep Video Analysis systems like the DVA162/DVA3221, its exclusive features and exemption from surveillance licenses make it a compelling choice.

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Which AI Services Are Included with the Synology BC500 and TC500 Cameras (and which ones are not)?

Now, despite the Synology BC500 and TC500 Surveillance Cameras arriving with onboard hardware for AI-powered recognition tasks, it is worth highlighting that using them is NOT the same as using the Deep Video Analysis (DVA) series of NAS servers in Synology’s portfolio. These operations are managed from inside the camera and the alerts are handled and actioned by the NAS after the camera sends the appropriate alert – and these cameras so NOT have the same level of hardware as the DVA1622 and DVA3221 inside each of them! Additionally, whereas the DVA series manages multiple tasks internally from multiple cameras, only using the camera hardware as a life ‘feed’, these cameras cannot run deeper AI tasks that involve counting, internal database management and keeping records of AI referral data internally – they do not have the storage or processing power for that. So more complex people counting and specific facial recognition will not be immediately available to your PLUS series Diskstation, just because you are using the BC500 and/or TC500. Here is a breakdown of the services available to users with either Synology Cameras or a Synology DVA NAS:

If you are unaware of the Synology Deep Video Analysis NAS system, you can find out more about it in the video reviews of the hardware and software below from our YouTube channel:

Synology BC500 Camera Review – Conclusion & Verdict

Ultimately, the edge-based AI recognition that cameras, like the BC500 provide, is designed to minimize redundant or unsuitable alerts from your surveillance feeds. This optimization allows you to spend fewer man-hours checking on your surveillance setup unnecessarily and instead focus on genuinely useful alerts. This same efficiency applies when you leverage camera feed management in older recordings. If you find evidence of a security concern now, you can use that information to retroactively check old recordings, saving time by pinpointing relevant evidence and tailoring alerts accordingly. While Synology has set the pricing relatively high, they do so knowing that their software is among the best in the industry. The cameras are likely to be considered as part of a larger, single-ecosystem surveillance solution. Additionally, with cybersecurity concerns and debates over the sourcing of integral hardware at the forefront (for instance, the US-China Trade war), having cameras made outside of China (that is, TAA and NDAA compliant) works in Synology’s favor. Some users may also be swayed by the absence of an additional camera license fee when deploying a Synology BC500, although the savings here are modest, around $50 or so.

That said, the hardware inside these cameras is arguably lower-end compared to some of the more affordable Chinese models on the market, which offer higher resolution, sensor quality, pixel recording depth, and complexity. At present, Synology’s limited range of two models could constrain the scope of their deployment, but it’s clear that these are just the first of many cameras being introduced into this range. There is a distinct sense that these cameras are primarily aimed at business-class users. This focus makes sense considering the type of users who want to mass-deploy cameras and will realize the time savings from edge AI recognition (and DVA systems too). At this time, it’s hard to see many home users opting for these cameras at $250+ when they can find similar hardware for more than half that price from other IP camera brands. The emphasis on encryption/NDAA/TAA features also seems more relevant to businesses and home users with specific concerns about surveillance security footage being intercepted on the fly. In conclusion, the Synology BC500 is undoubtedly a good camera, and businesses of all sizes will quickly realize the benefits of its features and the accompanying Surveillance Station 9. However, home users might want to wait a bit longer to see if Synology expands the range to better serve their needs, much like their J, Play, Value, and Plus series have done.

Synology BC500 PROS	Synology BC500 CONS
Unparalleled Synology Surveillance Station Integration Also, Surveillance station is 10/10 on its own NDAA/TAA Compliant, unlike many budget alternatives (HTTPS/SRTP Support Recording Options) Edge Recording Object Recognition is incredibly useful Person/Car Loitering and Crowd gathering monitoring does not get enough credit for how useful it is! No Additional Camera License Requirements Sturdy and Solid Build Quality EXCEPTIONALLY FAST and EASY first-time setup Sub 5W use over PoE typically 3 Year Hardware Warranty and Effective Lifetime Software Warranty Edge Recording and C2 Surveillance Cloud Recording Support Smart Search is a gamechanger for precise retroactive searching Intrusion Mapping is intuitive and very customizable in it’s design Noise Detection (custom threshold) is exceptionally useful and often overlooked	More than double the cost of 3rd party similar cameras Good, but not top-tier night vision Only 2 Models in the Synology Camera range limit the scope of deployment Can only be used with Synology NAS Systems No PoE Mains power Injector or SD Card included, which at this price seems poor Somewhat cancelled out by the Synology DVA1622 with Deep Video Analysis at $599

If you are thinking of buying a Synology NAS, please use the links below as it results in us at NASCompares receiving an affiliate fee from Amazon:

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It’s been a couple of months since the full release by Synology of their new surveillance cameras, the TC500 current style ceiling camera and BC500 bullet style wall camera. When initially revealed, the brand seemed to be FINALLY addressing a long overlooked gap in the market by turnkey NAS solution providers who up to that point provided incredible surveillance software and services, but the asked users to choose one of 8000+ supported 3rd party cameras- never directly recommending one over another. Much like when Synology released their own first-party routers, hard drives, SSDs, network upgrades and more, this was done to further solidify their status as a single brand ecosystem provider (*cough* where is the official Synology Switch! WHERE!), so it made ALOT of sense. However, they are entering the camera market perhaps a little tentatively with the release of just two cameras and at a price point that is arguably a lot more business-focused than many would like (especially given the approx 2 decades old Surveillance station software is so incredibly popular and available on ALL of their NAS devices, big or small). Today I want to review the Synology TC500 Camera, discuss it’s strengths, it’s weaknesses and hopefully help you decide if it is perfect for your home/business CCTV setup!

You can find our Synology TC500 Camera Review YouTube HERE

Check Amazon for the Synology BC500 and TC500 Cameras

Synology TC500 Camera – HERE

Synology BC500 Camera – HERE

Synology BC500 and TC500 IP Camera Specification Highlights:

• BC500 = Compact Style IP Camera
• TC500 = Dome Style IP Camera
• Resolution: 5MP – 2880×1620 – 30FPS
• Horizontal angle: 110 degrees
• Weatherproof standard with IP67 Rating
• IK10 Vandal Proof
• Nightvision  covers 30 Metres
• SRTP/HTTPS support for enhanced security of video streams
• Complies with US NDAA/TAA standards
• Intelligent vehicle and person detection
• Integrate seamlessly with Surveillance Station, enhancing the seamless surveillance management experience
• Encrypted recordings
• SD Card Slot

Synology TC500 Camera Review – Quick Conclusion

The Synology TC500 Turret-style camera, characterized by advanced edge-based AI recognition, epitomizes the new era in surveillance technology by efficiently filtering out unneeded alerts and enhancing operational efficiency. Despite a higher price, Synology’s superior software and cybersecurity commitment, manifesting in TAA and NDAA-compliant products, could outweigh the cost for users seeking a safe surveillance solution. While there might be some hardware compromises compared to cheaper models, the TC500’s robust functionality and performance stand out. Synology’s cameras, predominantly aimed at business-class users, offer immense value for large-scale surveillance deployments. However, home users may find less appeal due to the limited model range and pronounced emphasis on advanced security features. The TC500 offers substantial benefits for businesses, but home users might need to wait for an expanded range more tailored to their needs. Until then, the TC500 remains a reliable option for sophisticated, business-grade surveillance.

SOFTWARE - 10/10

HARDWARE - 8/10

PERFORMANCE - 8/10

PRICE - 7/10

VALUE - 7/10

8.0

PROS

Unparalleled Synology Surveillance Station Integration
Also, Surveillance station is 10/10 on its own
NDAA/TAA Compliant, unlike many budget alternatives (HTTPS/SRTP Support Recording Options)
Edge Recording Object Recognition is incredibly useful
Person/Car Loitering and Crowd gathering monitoring does not get enough credit for how useful it is!
No Additional Camera License Requirements
Sturdy and Solid Build Quality
EXCEPTIONALLY FAST and EASY first-time setup
Sub 5W use over PoE typically
3 Year Hardware Warranty and Effective Lifetime Software Warranty
Edge Recording and C2 Surveillance Cloud Recording Support
Smart Search is a gamechanger for precise retroactive searching
Intrusion Mapping is intuitive and very customizable in it\\\'s design
Noise Detection (custom threshold) is exceptionally useful and often overlooked

CONS

More than double the cost of 3rd party similar cameras
Good, but not top-tier night vision
Only 2 Models in the Synology Camera range limit the scope of deployment
Can only be used with Synology NAS Systems
No PoE Mains power Injector or SD Card included, which at this price seems poor
Somewhat cancelled out by the Synology DVA1622 with Deep Video Analysis at $599

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Synology TC500 Camera Review – Packaging

Upon first look, the TC500 retail box is very ‘on brand’. True to the Synology house style, the packaging is almost completely recyclable, clearly labelled and very modern – an aesthetic that’s stylishly minimalist and straightforward.

The box’s sides are amply covered with detailed information specific to the TC500 camera. This presentation is impressively neat, particularly for a product traditionally not associated with such looking nice at the retail level.

The camera kit itself includes the TC500 camera, a quick-start setup guide, a wall guide for installation, screws, raw plugs, and a waterproof cable cover.

Unfortunately, the package lacks a Power over Ethernet (PoE) injector for mains power. Considering the camera’s price tag of $250-300, this omission is a bit disappointing.

Nonetheless, the TC500 camera comes with a 3-year hardware warranty and offers lifetime support in Synology Surveillance station, which is probably going to matter more to most users who plan on having this camera deployed for 5-10 years without thinking about it. All in all, the TC500 is packaged neatly and practically, setting the stage for the camera’s design and functionality.

Synology TC500 Camera Review – Design

The TC500 camera boasts a rugged, compact design. The main camera is on a rotating base that can be turned 360 degrees, as well as a verticle adjustment angle of around 100 degrees. The TC500 is designed to be ceiling/wall mounted (high!) and has a lens view of 110° x 56° x 132°.

However, it is important to not that the Synology TC500 is not a PTZ (pan, tilt, zoom) camera and adjustments to it’s viewing angle need to be manually adjusted after deployment as needed. The Synology camera brand at the time of launch is only two models (this current style one and one bullet model). No doubt a PTZ model is on the cards later in the series.

However, on a plus note, it’s worth noting that unlike its counterpart, the BC500 Bullet-style camera, the TC500 current style is rated IK10 vandal-proof. Although this won’t be an issue for some users, it’s something to remember when comparing these two for specific setups. It is IP67 weatherproof and unless it gets fully water submerged, it should more than withstand heavy downpours of rain and typical cold/frost.

The base of the back panel of the TC500 is removable and allows you to install to the wall first, before mounting the camera. This is to ensure a clean installation and maintain the camera’s weatherproofing when deployed outside. Resettings the camera is achieved via the

A removable panel at the bottom of the camera reveals an SD card slot supporting up to 128GB and a reset button. This SD card slot allows edge recording. In the event of a network error or an unreachable target surveillance NAS, it will record directly onto the SD card and then resync the recordings with the NAS when the connection is restored.

The TC500 features a considerably large lens surface area, with a status LED on the top right and a microphone on the top left. This microphone can be used to record audio alongside the video feed. Moreover, the BC500 supports Audio Detection, allowing the user to be alerted when noise exceeds a certain threshold.

The TC500 camera can record at 2880×1620 resolution at 30 FPS, or a substream at 1920×1080 @ 15 FPS or 1280×720 @ 30 FPS, using either H.264 or H.265 (also known as HEVC).

Unfortunately, given its price tag, the 5 Megapixel/5MP lens is slightly underwhelming when you consider that you can buy 4K cameras with optical zoom at a lower price point. That said, there is a large amount of adjustment possible in the Surveillance station software:

There is no denying that the Synology TC500 camera lens and recording quality maximum is a little underwhelming for the price point, however, the image clarity is nevertheless commendable and should satisfy the needs of most users.

Synology TC500 Camera Review – Surveillance Software and Services

The Synology TC500 camera is specifically engineered to provide optimal performance with Synology Surveillance Station, the current version being 9.1.1. The camera’s integration with Surveillance Station offers advanced functionality that outshines the features provided by third-party and non-edge-AI-recognition cameras.

The TC500 camera, when paired with Surveillance Station, supports a plethora of services that transform your security experience. It provides access to live camera feed (monitoring center), which can be scaled to accommodate several cameras on screen simultaneously. You can also view live feeds and previous recordings side-by-side on the software.

Additionally, the Surveillance Station allows for privacy mask and watermark applications on the feed.

It also supports the upload of eMaps and integrates with third-party mapping services like Google Maps and OpenMaps.

Surveillance Station isn’t limited to camera support. It also provides control for IP speakers, door controls, and I/O supported peripherals. Users can access the system swiftly and intuitively via a mobile app, and even use their mobile as another surveillance camera feed with Synology Live Cam. Alerts and push notifications can be scheduled for specific events, and the system generates downloadable analytical reports.

The Surveillance Station further extends its functionality with an array of additional add-ons. These range from YouTube Live Streaming and video integrity tools to transaction checking and IFTTT/Webhook services.

It also offers features like motion detection, missing object detection, idle zone monitoring, and foreign object area tagging. Access to the Surveillance Station is conveniently provided through web browsers, desktop clients, and mobile clients, either over the local network or remotely.

One of the key features is the Smart Lapse creation, which lets you truncate long periods of recording into speedy sequences. For example, you can turn a full day’s footage into a few minutes for quick scanning. It also supports cloud recording with Synology C2 Surveillance (available with a free trial, then on a subscription basis).

The Surveillance Station also offers a Home Mode, which allows automated camera schedules to kick in when a defined user exits or enters the premises using WiFi links. More details on these features can be found in our review of Synology Surveillance Station 9.1 on our YouTube channel:

The TC500 camera, paired with Surveillance Station, supports sophisticated AI detection techniques like people detection, vehicle detection, intrusion detection, crowd detection, and loitering detection. It also offers a Smart Search feature that lets you search a predefined area of a recorded feed for specific incidents.

Vehicle Detection – Similar to its capability for human detection, the TC500 camera extends its intelligent recognition to vehicles as well. This feature proves particularly useful in situations when the premises are closed, and an unexpected vehicle enters the vicinity. The surveillance system can be programmed to provide ‘out of hours’ alerts, notifying owners whenever vehicles approach their premises during closed or off hours. It’s an excellent way to ensure the security of your property when you’re not physically present.

Intrusion Detection – The TC500 camera takes intrusion detection a notch higher with its advanced features. Users can draw lines on the feed that can have multiple bend or break points, marking out specific areas as off-limits. This allows the system to monitor if people or vehicles cross into these forbidden zones. Thanks to edge AI recognition, you can customize this feature to fit your needs—for example, allowing an area to be entered by people but not vehicles or vice versa. This level of customization helps create ‘no go’ zones at specific times, further enhancing the security of your premises.

Crowd Detection – The TC500 camera’s recognition capabilities extend beyond just humans and vehicles. It also offers nuanced crowd detection. For instance, the system could be programmed to ignore one or two people in a predefined area. However, if that number increases to five or six, it could trigger an alert. This crowd-detection feature enables you to set thresholds for alerts based on the number of people in a particular area, ensuring you’re notified only when necessary.

Loitering Detection – Similar to crowd detection, loitering detection is another impressive feature of the TC500 camera. This function enables the camera to alert you when an individual or vehicle remains within a predefined area for an unusually long period. People just passing by won’t trigger an alert, but if they loiter around for a while, the system will notify you. This helps you keep an eye on any potential suspicious activity around your premises.

Smart Search – This feature significantly enhances the surveillance process by allowing you to focus on a specific area within recorded feeds. For instance, you can set the system to alert you of any movement, person, or vehicle in a predetermined spot, such as a door, desk, or window. By combining Smart Search with Smart Time Lapse, you can sift through weeks of recordings in a fraction of the time, automatically identifying any noteworthy events in a particular spot. It allows you to retroactively apply advanced surveillance parameters, even if they weren’t set up at the time of recording.

While the TC500 camera is impressive, it’s important to note that it does not support database storage. It cannot store a reference of specific people or faces and vehicle registrations for future comparison when they appear in the feed, allowing alerts to be scaled accordingly. To access this kind of functionality, a DVA system such as the Synology DVA1622 2-Bay or DVA3221 4 Bay is necessary. Similarly, the TC500 camera cannot keep track of the number of people or objects crossing the set intrusion lines, making it impossible to maintain an accurate count—for instance, knowing who is in or out during a fire alarm. Thus, while the TC500 camera provides a range of advanced features, it has its limitations.

Recordings are sent via HTTPS/SRTP encryption to the NAS, are encrypted when recorded to the local memory card, and remain encrypted when backed up on the Surveillance C2 cloud service. Furthermore, the Synology BC500 camera is NDAA and TAA compliant, which gives it a distinct edge over lower-priced Chinese cameras. In conclusion, while the TC500 Camera does not match up to more expensive Deep Video Analysis systems like the DVA162/DVA3221, its exclusive features and exemption from surveillance licenses make it a compelling choice.

All these edge AI recognition services sound good, but what about the Synology DVA series of Surveillance NAS? Don’t those have AI services? What can the more expensive Synology DVA1622 and DVA3221 do the BC500 and TC500 Cameras cannot?

Which AI Services Are Included with the Synology TC500 and BC500 Cameras (and which ones are not)?

Now, despite the Synology TC500 and BC500 Surveillance Cameras arriving with onboard hardware for AI-powered recognition tasks, it is worth highlighting that using them is NOT the same as using the Deep Video Analysis (DVA) series of NAS servers in Synology’s portfolio. These operations are managed from inside the camera and the alerts are handled and actioned by the NAS after the camera sends the appropriate alert – and these cameras so NOT have the same level of hardware as the DVA1622 and DVA3221 inside each of them! Additionally, whereas the DVA series manages multiple tasks internally from multiple cameras, only using the camera hardware as a life ‘feed’, these cameras cannot run deeper AI tasks that involve counting, internal database management and keeping records of AI referral data internally – they do not have the storage or processing power for that. So more complex people counting and specific facial recognition will not be immediately available to your PLUS series Diskstation, just because you are using the TC500 and/or BC500. Here is a breakdown of the services available to users with either Synology Cameras or a Synology DVA NAS:

If you are unaware of the Synology Deep Video Analysis NAS system, you can find out more about it in the video reviews of the hardware and software below from our YouTube channel:

Synology TC500 Camera Review – Conclusion & Verdict

With the rise of edge-based AI recognition, surveillance technology has taken a new turn. Cameras like the Synology TC500, a Turret style camera, embody this advancement beautifully, designed meticulously to sift out unnecessary alerts from your surveillance feeds, enhancing your operational efficiency and managing your time optimally. This particular aspect of the TC500 makes it an essential tool in an era where time is the most coveted asset. Now, I am aware that Synology has placed a higher price tag on their products, but let me provide you with a perspective on this. Synology’s dedication to creating superior software and its steadfast commitment to cybersecurity has made its products TAA and NDAA-compliant. This compliance could potentially outweigh the cost factor for many users who are looking for a safe and secure surveillance solution.

Comparing the TC500 to some more economically priced models in the market, there might be a perceived gap in terms of hardware such as resolution and sensor quality. However, Synology’s cameras are not just about hardware; they deliver on robust functionality and reliable performance that others might struggle to match.It is quite apparent that Synology’s cameras, especially the TC500, are primarily aimed at business-class users. These cameras are incredibly valuable for large-scale surveillance systems deployment and utilize edge AI recognition, making them a sensible choice for businesses. However, for home users, who could potentially find comparable hardware for a lesser cost, the appeal might be somewhat limited. This is especially true considering Synology’s current limited model range and the pronounced emphasis on high-level security features that may be more relevant to business scenarios than residential ones. Synology’s TC500 offers tangible benefits for businesses of all sizes. Its features and functionalities can streamline surveillance operations, making them more effective and less time-consuming. However, home users might want to exercise a bit of patience. With Synology’s track record of slowly but surely adapting to expanding tiers of their portfolio, it’s not unreasonable to expect an expansion of their range that is a little more home-user rich (perhaps a J/Value series), tailored more towards the modest market. Until then, the TC500 stands as a solid, reliable option for those seeking a sophisticated, business-grade surveillance solution.

Synology TC500 PROS	Synology TC500 CONS
Unparalleled Synology Surveillance Station Integration Also, Surveillance station is 10/10 on its own NDAA/TAA Compliant, unlike many budget alternatives (HTTPS/SRTP Support Recording Options) Edge Recording Object Recognition is incredibly useful Person/Car Loitering and Crowd gathering monitoring does not get enough credit for how useful it is! No Additional Camera License Requirements Sturdy and Solid Build Quality EXCEPTIONALLY FAST and EASY first-time setup Sub 5W use over PoE typically 3 Year Hardware Warranty and Effective Lifetime Software Warranty Edge Recording and C2 Surveillance Cloud Recording Support Smart Search is a gamechanger for precise retroactive searching Intrusion Mapping is intuitive and very customizable in it’s design Noise Detection (custom threshold) is exceptionally useful and often overlooked	More than double the cost of 3rd party similar cameras Good, but not top-tier night vision Only 2 Models in the Synology Camera range limit the scope of deployment Can only be used with Synology NAS Systems No PoE Mains power Injector or SD Card included, which at this price seems poor Somewhat cancelled out by the Synology DVA1622 with Deep Video Analysis at $599

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I have quite a large number of cameras here on the blog/video and I think it would be fair to say that although most are all functional and reliable bits of kit, they are not particularly exciting! Security cameras are not designed to be particularly thrilling, as they are chiefly designed to be setup-and-forget pieces of equipment that are on 24×7 and rarely thought of outside of when you need to review surveillance footage live/archived. Now, why am I starting a review about an IP camera with such a low-key intro? Well, because the Reolink Duo 2 Wifi outdoor IP camera MIGHT be the first surveillance camera that I actually find GENUINELY interesting! It has a number of cool software and hardware features that really set it apart from other brands right now targeting the same home/SMB user market – especially the chief selling feature of this camera, the dual lens 180-degree view mode! Arriving in a wired POE version and WiFi version, today I am reviewing the wireless version to see if this surveillance IP camera is another great release from Reolink, or something of a niche/fad item.

SOFTWARE - 9/10

HARDWARE - 10/10

BUILD - 10/10

PRICE - 8/10

VALUE - 8/10

9.0

PROS

4K Recording, yet efficient rec sizes
180 degree field of view is A++
Two-way Auto AND a triggerable high db(A) siren
Exceptional nightvision and colour nightvision support
IP66 weather proof
Two lens that can be manually adjusted, with LEDs spread across them
560 lumens spotlight
Huge range of recording methods supported
Object detection at this price and quality is impressive
Mobile App is better than ever
Arrives in WiFi, Battery, PoE RJ45 and 4G Sim versions
WiFi version STILL has a Cat/RJ45 connection option

CONS

A good % higher in price than many other Reolink cameras
PTZ Support would have been a nice bonus
Cloud recording support is limited and no trial option

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Reolink Duo 2 WiFi Camera Review – Packaging

For such a decent-sized camera when it is fully deployed (195x103x56 mm), the retail box for the Reolink Duo 2 WiFi is surprisingly small/compact, weighing in at a little over 600grams. The retail box is covered in Reolink livery (something the brand has definitely stepped up on in recent years).

The contents of the Reolink Duo 2 WiFi retail kit are also pretty diverse too, with the standard WiFi model arriving with the camera itself, wall-hinged bracket, two high-def antennae, power cable, extension cable, screwdriver, screws+raw plugs, wall mounting kit, mounting plate, water-seals, wall guide, adhesive CCTV stickers and manuals on the setup+2 year warranty coverage. The LAN/PoE version also includes a Cat 6 ethernet cable.

Like most cameras designed for outdoor use, the question of a power source raises its head. Many people do NOT want a CCTV camera inside their home, even with scheduled recording patterns. So outdoor cameras that cover entrances and exits serve a good middle ground.

The previous generation Reolink Duo series arrived in three versions (Wired with Power over Ethernet supplied, Wireless but with a mains power connection or Battery powered and connected to a solar panel) and I assume the Reolink Duo 2 WiFi will arrive in these, but the Mains power cable is the only option right now in the WiFi version and although the initial 1.8 metre cable seems a little underwhelming for a high height, outdoor camera, it DOES arrive with a 5-metre mains power extension that goes between the included PSU and the camera easily. The connector can also be made completely water/dust tight in the connectors with the included weather cover clips.

The kit also includes a bunch of smaller bits for when you want to wall mount the camera. The deterrent stickers that declare that ‘this property is under 24-hour surveillance’ are a little naff, but I can imagine some users using them. The first-time setup instructions are a little thin on the ground to be honest, but there are extensive guides online for setting up reolink cameras and Reolink seemingly updates them regularly.

The retail kit for the Reolink Duo 2 WiFi is all fairly standard stuff and I can’t really fault it. It’s not the most protective of packaging, but this product looks very much like the kind of ‘off the shelf’ solution found in your local IT shop, so I can overlook it here. Let’s discuss the design of the camera itself.

Reolink Duo 2 WiFi Camera Review – Design

Even at a quick glance, it is clear that the Reolink Duo 2 WiFi arrives in a significantly different design than like 90% of other IP cameras on the market, breaking the mould from the usual dome/bullet style outdoor cameras. Indeed, this might be the most anthropomorphized camera that Reolink has ever produced.

The Reolink Duo 2 WiFi is completely metal externally and it’s sharp edges and black/white colour scheme result in a fantastically modern-looking camera. The sides do not feature any ventilation or marks aside from the Reolink logo.

The side panels of the Reolink Duo 2 WiFi camera feature screw threads to attach the twin antennae to this camera. For such a small camera, these are some pretty high-quality antennas, supporting both 2.4Ghz and 5Ghz, but only supporting up to WPA2 encryption, instead of WPA3. The antennae are 2T2R MIMO architecture and allow for dual streaming and dual frequency.

The top and bottom of the camera rather uniquely BOTH feature the screw hole for attaching the mounting kit, so this camera cab wall or ceiling mounted very easily, as well as the base of the camera also features a few little extra bits.

However, one overlooked feature of this camera is that although it is marketed heavily as WiFi, it DOES have an ethernet port (1GbE RJ45 Copper). This port, although not PoE like the other non-wifi version) is exceptionally useful for the first-time setup of the camera, as although you CAN set the device up wirelessly or the first time, it is 100x EASIER to setup IP cameras the first time with a LAN connection, THEN add your local SSID/Wireless connection identity to the camera via the software. Then you can just disconnect the camera from the LAN and it will switch to the local WiFi immediately. I am really surprised that the Reolink Duo 2 WiFi camera still has a wired LAN connection, despite it being mentioned hardly anywhere on the official pages!

The base of the Reolink Duo 2 WiFi reveals several things. There is the additional screw joint, but also there is the audio OUT speaker. This speaker can be used to speak out from the Reolink mobile application (to warn an intruder, reassure a pet or just give a simple instruction), or it can be used to action the fantastically loud inbuilt alarm/siren at the touch of a button. This can also be linked to an automated trigger that you can set up in the camera software events/alerts area – but again, it is REALLY loud. Additionally, the underside of the camera has a screw panel-covered area where you can install a mini SD Card of upto 256GB.

It is worth highlighting that you can only use this feature if you want to maintain local recordings to the camera (24×7 on rotational over-writes and/or accessing recordings and snapshots via your mobile/desktop browser from alerts), as you can always choose to storage recordings on the subscription cloud services from Reolink or via an ONVIF camera supporting NAS drive (such as QNAP or Synology – full confirmation of support and testing coming soon on the YouTube channel).

The wall/ceiling mount that the camera comes bundled with is a little plasticky, but is still sturdy enough to support the weight of the camera easily. All the kit you will need to put it together and mark out where it will be deployed is included and even heavy-duty screws and raw plugs are included too.

Now, as the attached wall/surface mount indicates, the Reolink Duo 2 WiFi camera does NOT support any kind of remote control Pan or Tilt in its operation. Likewise, although there is digital zoom support, the use of the dual lens design for a wider angle means that optical zoom is absolutely not possible either. So, this is definitely a camera that you need to set up correctly, FIRST TIME!

Overall, I cannot fault the design of the Reolink Duo 2 WiFi camera at all. It manages to be surprising petite considering it is effectively two cameras that have been bolted and digitally stitched into one. Likewise, there is plenty of scope for easy deployment and you can clearly see how this camera is IP66 rated, as all opportunities for moisture/dust ingress are almost completely negated. Let’s discuss the hardware and abilities of the Reolink Duo 2 WiFi camera.

Reolink Duo 2 WiFi Camera Review – Hardware

Now, the hardware of any I Surveillance camera is going to be in the sort of tech spec speak that only a fraction of users is really going to understand. So, below I have the full hardware specifications table and then I have broken down each of the important elements that you should care about, for good or bad! The Reolink Duo 2 WiFi camera specifications are:

The two cameras on the front of the Reolink Duo 2 WiFi camera are mounted at angles (not unlike a bird) and each one records in 4K in up to 20FPS. Then the internal system takes the small amount of overlap in between the feed of each camera lens and creates a rectangular image feed with very minimal blur in the center. This means that the cameras can provide a wide lens view (without using any fish eye techniques that warp the image) that covers a staggering 180 degrees.

So, if you take a moment and think about the field of view that you have via your eyes right now. Their combined coverage (with overlap) means you have approx 120 degrees of site, with around 20+ degrees either side that forms your peripheral vision that is constantly being mentally supported/filled in. If you had your back flat against a wall and had the 180-degree field of view afforded to the Reolink Duo 2 WiFi camera – that would mean you have the FULL view of EVERYTHING in your vicinity from immediate left to the immediate right

Then you have the light control and handling of recordings in darker areas/times of day. Each lens features 3 IR sensors and 4X 560 Lumens lights when needed, that allow up to 30 metres of nightvision sight for recording (supporting the automated tracking and triggers).

However, the Reolink Duo 2 WiFi camera goes one step further by including Colour Nightvision, a system of the camera that allows traditionally black-and-white camera recordings to be (on-the-fly) converted into colour.

This is achieved with the camera supporting a sophisticated colour identification system that is not possible in regular two tones black+white night vision modes. I will show an example of this cool colour technique in the software section below, but (alongside the tremendously wide angle of recording) it is really one of the big selling points of the Reolink Duo 2 Camera. Here is a short example of how it appears:

The hardware inside the Reolink Duo 2 WiFi camera is effectively the same as most of the 4K cameras in the brand’s lineup – but effectively doubled. The Camera can be accessed using 3rd party NVR systems via the ONVIF protocol (this includes Synology and QNAP NAS drives, even supporting the dual stream protocol too as two separate feeds in more powerful instances), a desktop Reolink client application, an official mobile app for iOS and Android (more detail on that below) or simply via your web browser via the IP address.

However, you might well hit flash API/plug-in issues in most modern browsers (no fault of reolink, just the way these things go). Let’s go into more detail on the mobile application below.

Reolink Duo 2 WiFi Camera Review – Software

Now, the mobile application that you can use to access the Reolink Duo 2 WiFi camera is available (free, obviously) on iOS and Android. For the most part, all of the features, services and controls are exactly the same, regardless of the Reolink camera you choose to use. It’s only if you are using a camera that has very particular features (such as the Duo 2 camera’s twin lens and/or colour nightvision mode) that you will see any differences in presentation and performance. With well over a million downloads so far and regular updates, the app has come a hell of a long way from my first experiences with it in 2018.

The user interface of the app can be viewed in a large number of ways. Initially (when the phone is in portrait view), you are shown a single camera view with its controls and settings menus visible. This can be switched to a landscape view that can be used to view 1, 4 and 9 split screen camera views. Each view can be set to a live-feed more (i.e. showing what each camera sees live, which will be something of a battery killer!) or each feed with have a static image of what is visible at that moment and you can click each camera manually to get a live feed enabled. These cameras can be accessed over the local area network or can access remotely using the Reolink remote link (HTTPS and Encrypted). It is worth remembering that you in this mode, you are accessing the feed, not a recording. We will touch on the recordings later. Additionally, each camera can have it’s audio in/out accessed as needed from this GUI, as well as any camera featuring pan, tilt, zoom support to be completely controllable on the fly via the app and the live feed.

The default range of cameras you can see on the main GUI/deck and the picture quality of each can also be easily adjusted. So, if you have SPECIFIC cameras that you want to keep an eye on (external perimeter cameras for example), this can be set up in seconds. Likewise, if your camera is running a multi-stream/profile setup (very common on 4K and High Framerate 1080p cameras, in order to run a secondary, low bandwidth intensive output), you can switch the default stream and/or on-the-fly choice very easily from the main GUI and on the control screen of each camera individually.

As mentioned, some cameras have their own unique features and the Reolink Duo 2 WiFi is no exception, with its dual camera design. This feature can be adjusted manually (though it is recommended to leave it at its default settings)  as the small overlap in the middle of the field of view between each camera can be refined. This will be of much more useful to users using the camera in angular corridors and curved walled areas, as otherwise, the default image stitching will blur noticeably. Otherwise, I would leave these settings well alone, as most deployments of the Reolink Duo 2 WiFi will run best on the out-the-box setup.

The Reolink application has continued adding features over the years in line with consumer demands in CCTV, as deployment in the home and small offices has become both popular and very easy. Features such as customized watermarks (i.e. a company logo, or Reolink’s own), privacy masks (where an area of the recorded/live ad-hoc field of view is permanently covered) and customized coverage areas, that allow you to select one/more specific area of the camera feed (such as a door and/or windows) to use for motion/person/pet/vehicle detection. Most recent updates to the Reolink on-camera firmware and the mobile application have massively increased the number of available features (even on older cameras).

Adding and/or accessing the Reolink camera for the most part is exactly the same on any camera in the brand’s portfolio. You can either add the camera by attaching it to your local area network with a LAN/RJ45 camera, or using the 3rd barcode on the base and temporary connectivity via Bluetooth or a brief local hotspot connection. Practically all of the WiFi cameras in Reolink’s portfolio also arrive with RJ45 LAN ethernet ports and in most cases, it is easier to connect the camera to your local router via a cable, then after the app finds the camera, you can manually add the local SSIDs and their passwords as needed. Then just disconnect the camera and deploy it wherever you want and it will connect over WiFi automatically.

Modern camera hardware releases from Reolink take advantage of 3D barcodes which can be used to quickly interface and setup the camera for the first time. Again, just be away that (like the majority of IP Cameras in the home/SMB market) the initial hurdle is always going to be that adding the camera to your network so it can be accessed externally.

The settings and configuration of the Reolink camera can be broken down into three areas. The first is your Reolink account (you will need to create and register one of these before using the app) which allows you to register and claim cameras for your surveillance setup. The 2nd tier (discussed earlier) is the specific camera control and configuration that allows you to change the devices settings. The final tier of configuration is the Apps own configuration, which is surprisingly detailed! This allows you to create the perfect surveillance setup for your needs and cater your alerts and notifications to best suit your needs.

The alerts you receive can either/all be sent as push notifications to your mobile device via the app or via messaging systems (this requires further registration). These alerts and notifications can also be scheduled to ensure that you only get them when you want/need, as well as  support of multiple user accounts and credentials can be created to ensure that key people get the notifications appropriate to their availability.

Now, having all these notifications and alerts for when your camera recognizes that a trigger/rule has been triggered is useful to allow you to connect with the camera and check the feeds on-the-fly, but what about recordings? What are the options for when you want to keep a record of the footage. There are several different options open to you here that scale is cost, utility and ease of use. ALL Reolink IP Cameras arrive with an available Micro SD Card slot that supports up to a single 256GB in the most recent hardware releases (pre 2019 it is 128GB) which can be used to store recordings for alerts OR 24×7 use, with customizable overwrite rules (i.e how many days or recording/retention you want, before you overwrite the oldest files). The higher the image/video quality (resolution AND framerate) and longer the decided clip, the more space you are going to need. Thanks to the customized recording schedules, areas of coverage control in the app camera feed AND the recently added support of Person, Vehicle and Pet detection, you should have considerably fewer false alerts sent your way and much less space wasted on recordings that were made in error. Additionally, all these recordings can be accessed remotely via the Reolink mobile app and there are improved and much more efficient tools such as smart lase playback and high playback speed options included, as well as the option to download a recording inside the camera to your local PC/Mobile device from inside the app.

If you like the idea of using the Reolink software BUT the idea of relying on an SD card inside the camera seems risky (theft/damage of the camera), or you want to consider dual recording methods, then you still have a few different options available. ONVIF-supported Reolink cameras (more than half of the entire Reolink family is Onvif supporting) allow you to connect and existing 3rd party NVR or NAS surveillance software from Synology and QNAP with the camera. Alongside the option to store the recorded footage and events on the NAS, you also have the option to either use the camera’s own alerts/hardware to make it’s decisions on what to record OR you can allow the NAS/NVR to take full control with its own software. It is very adaptable. Lastly, when it comes to remote storage on your Reolink camera, you can use the app to connect your camera to a network/internet-based area of storage (perhaps a low-cost NAS that does not have its own NVR tool, or an area of storage on a server that you partitioned off as a LUN). The FTP Server protocol support is actually quite sophisticated and allows you to create rules for recording quality, naming, encryption and more.

Alongside all these recording methods, there is also the option via the mobile application to take advantage of local recordings. This option, although quite limited in its use compared with SD Card or connected NAS/Cloud storage (as it is much more ad hoc and manually actioned) CAN be useful if you get an alert/trigger pushed to your device, you connect to the camera and see something happening RIGHT NOW that you need to be captured in photo/video form. If you are watching an intruder or event take place anyway, why just rely on your camera storage and/or NAS? Use the local record function to IMMEDIATELY record the footage you have on-screen to your mobile device for faster saving AND to have another copy.

AI recognition has grown in popularity in the world of NVR/CCTV considerably in recent years for two simple reasons. 1) The space required for high quality and legally usable footage in an age of 4K and HEVC recordings has grown considerably and therefore more accurate recordings that only happen when they are needed are much more desirable, and 2) depending on the location of your camera(s), the ease of motion trigger getting triggered by a wandering cat, passing car or more is quite high. This 2nd point also highlights the desire by users for much more tailored alerts. i.e., you have a camera outside of your building and you know people will be walking back and forth all day, but you WANT to KNOW when a car pulls up outside – vehicle detection, area detection and tailored object detection allows you to o that. The same goes for a home where you want to know if you get an intruder, but do not want your dog accidentally triggering motion alerts.

Practically all Reolink cameras arrive with some form of nightvision, which can be broken down into two things. The first is that the camera has the ability to use multiple onboard LEDs to automatically enable when the cameras sensor notes that the ambient light has diminished. These LEDs allow the camera to see a considerable distance (typically, the more sensors, the further it can see) and the Reolink Duo 2 WiFi is one the best-equipped examples of this, thanks to its dual-lens design. Additionally, most Reolink cameras released after 2020 arrive with an onboard light that can be manually or motion-triggered to increase the light in the field of view.

However, the Reolink Duo 2 WiFi also introduces a newer feature (available on other cameras but improved for this camera and future releases) that allows the camera to convert a black and white scale nightvision recording into colour with the use of light and identify particular colour spectrums. The difference between the two is quite notable and can be applied to BOTH low-quality and high-quality streamed feeds on the fly. Very impressive and VERY useful.

Finally, when it comes to interaction with your camera, if you have audio in/out (as found in the Reolink Duo 2 Wifi), you have the option on all camera feeds (at the click of the microphone icon) to talk into your phone and immediately output the audio to the camera location. Additionally, you can use the audio input function to hear/record any audio alongside your recordings (or independently if you choose). However, particular cameras (with the Reolink Duo 2 WiFi being one of them of course) have the option of an inbuilt alarm/siren that is remarkably loud! This can be set to action upon motion being detected (whole capture area or pre-set area with object detection) to deter would-be intruders OR you can manually action it in just two clicks remotely. The volume of the alarm and the sensitivity of the motion detection can be easily adjusted.

As I said at the start, the Reolink mobile application has evolved incredibly quickly over the last few years and although some features (such as cloud recording) are still locked behind paid subscriptions and/or only certain devices in the product family, the app is still free with your camera purchase AND allows you to use ALL the other features with an SD Card, NAS, NVR or FTP server (depending on the camera of course). Throughout my testing, it continued to be very responsive, smooth and aside from the inevitable range of permissions (storage access, mic access, camera access, etc) that you will need to enable on your client device to use all the features, it felt very secure and stable.

Reolink Duo 2 WiFi Camera Review – Conclusion

It is really, REALLY hard to fault the Reolink Duo 2 camera! Although it is by no means the most affordable home/business camera that the brand has ever released, considering we are talking about a 2 lens camera, that outputs in 4K, has an incredible 180-degree capture area, is IP66 outdoor weather protected, supports Alexa/Google-Home AND has some substantial wireless area coverage – for the £169 pricetag, it’s a bloody good deal. It’s worth noting that this price tag does NOT include your storage, which (depending on your retention needs) is going to range from as little as £10 for a 128GB SD Card, to a NAS server and/or a cloud subscription every month. You cannot even really fault Reolink for it’s range of supported connections, with the Reolink Duo 2 range arriving in this WiFi form, a PoE form, a Battery powered (solar panel too) form and even a 4G SIM version to use it’s own data plan. The camera is a little heavy than you might think, is a little more power hungry than your atypical 1 lens camera and is slightly wider/deeper than your typical bullet/dome camera – but these are very small complaints and overall this is probably (IMO!) the best camera that Reolink have ever released.

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I have quite a large number of cameras here on the blog/video and I think it would be fair to say that although most are all functional and reliable bits of kit, they are not particularly exciting! Security cameras are not designed to be particularly thrilling, as they are chiefly designed to be setup-and-forget pieces of equipment that are on 24×7 and rarely thought of outside of when you need to review surveillance footage live/archived. Now, why am I starting a review about an IP camera with such a low-key intro? Well, because the Reolink Duo 2 Wifi outdoor IP camera MIGHT be the first surveillance camera that I actually find GENUINELY interesting! It has a number of cool software and hardware features that really set it apart from other brands right now targeting the same home/SMB user market – especially the chief selling feature of this camera, the dual lens 180-degree view mode! Arriving in a wired POE version and WiFi version, today I am reviewing the wireless version to see if this surveillance IP camera is another great release from Reolink, or something of a niche/fad item.

SOFTWARE - 9/10

HARDWARE - 10/10

BUILD - 10/10

PRICE - 8/10

VALUE - 8/10

9.0

PROS

4K Recording, yet efficient rec sizes
180 degree field of view is A++
Two-way Auto AND a triggerable high db(A) siren
Exceptional nightvision and colour nightvision support
IP66 weather proof
Two lens that can be manually adjusted, with LEDs spread across them
560 lumens spotlight
Huge range of recording methods supported
Object detection at this price and quality is impressive
Mobile App is better than ever
Arrives in WiFi, Battery, PoE RJ45 and 4G Sim versions
WiFi version STILL has a Cat/RJ45 connection option

CONS

A good % higher in price than many other Reolink cameras
PTZ Support would have been a nice bonus
Cloud recording support is limited and no trial option

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Reolink Duo 2 WiFi Camera Review – Packaging

For such a decent-sized camera when it is fully deployed (195x103x56 mm), the retail box for the Reolink Duo 2 WiFi is surprisingly small/compact, weighing in at a little over 600grams. The retail box is covered in Reolink livery (something the brand has definitely stepped up on in recent years).

The contents of the Reolink Duo 2 WiFi retail kit are also pretty diverse too, with the standard WiFi model arriving with the camera itself, wall-hinged bracket, two high-def antennae, power cable, extension cable, screwdriver, screws+raw plugs, wall mounting kit, mounting plate, water-seals, wall guide, adhesive CCTV stickers and manuals on the setup+2 year warranty coverage. The LAN/PoE version also includes a Cat 6 ethernet cable.

Like most cameras designed for outdoor use, the question of a power source raises its head. Many people do NOT want a CCTV camera inside their home, even with scheduled recording patterns. So outdoor cameras that cover entrances and exits serve a good middle ground.

The previous generation Reolink Duo series arrived in three versions (Wired with Power over Ethernet supplied, Wireless but with a mains power connection or Battery powered and connected to a solar panel) and I assume the Reolink Duo 2 WiFi will arrive in these, but the Mains power cable is the only option right now in the WiFi version and although the initial 1.8 metre cable seems a little underwhelming for a high height, outdoor camera, it DOES arrive with a 5-metre mains power extension that goes between the included PSU and the camera easily. The connector can also be made completely water/dust tight in the connectors with the included weather cover clips.

The kit also includes a bunch of smaller bits for when you want to wall mount the camera. The deterrent stickers that declare that ‘this property is under 24-hour surveillance’ are a little naff, but I can imagine some users using them. The first-time setup instructions are a little thin on the ground to be honest, but there are extensive guides online for setting up reolink cameras and Reolink seemingly updates them regularly.

The retail kit for the Reolink Duo 2 WiFi is all fairly standard stuff and I can’t really fault it. It’s not the most protective of packaging, but this product looks very much like the kind of ‘off the shelf’ solution found in your local IT shop, so I can overlook it here. Let’s discuss the design of the camera itself.

Reolink Duo 2 WiFi Camera Review – Design

Even at a quick glance, it is clear that the Reolink Duo 2 WiFi arrives in a significantly different design than like 90% of other IP cameras on the market, breaking the mould from the usual dome/bullet style outdoor cameras. Indeed, this might be the most anthropomorphized camera that Reolink has ever produced.

The Reolink Duo 2 WiFi is completely metal externally and it’s sharp edges and black/white colour scheme result in a fantastically modern-looking camera. The sides do not feature any ventilation or marks aside from the Reolink logo.

The side panels of the Reolink Duo 2 WiFi camera feature screw threads to attach the twin antennae to this camera. For such a small camera, these are some pretty high-quality antennas, supporting both 2.4Ghz and 5Ghz, but only supporting up to WPA2 encryption, instead of WPA3. The antennae are 2T2R MIMO architecture and allow for dual streaming and dual frequency.

The top and bottom of the camera rather uniquely BOTH feature the screw hole for attaching the mounting kit, so this camera cab wall or ceiling mounted very easily, as well as the base of the camera also features a few little extra bits.

However, one overlooked feature of this camera is that although it is marketed heavily as WiFi, it DOES have an ethernet port (1GbE RJ45 Copper). This port, although not PoE like the other non-wifi version) is exceptionally useful for the first-time setup of the camera, as although you CAN set the device up wirelessly or the first time, it is 100x EASIER to setup IP cameras the first time with a LAN connection, THEN add your local SSID/Wireless connection identity to the camera via the software. Then you can just disconnect the camera from the LAN and it will switch to the local WiFi immediately. I am really surprised that the Reolink Duo 2 WiFi camera still has a wired LAN connection, despite it being mentioned hardly anywhere on the official pages!

The base of the Reolink Duo 2 WiFi reveals several things. There is the additional screw joint, but also there is the audio OUT speaker. This speaker can be used to speak out from the Reolink mobile application (to warn an intruder, reassure a pet or just give a simple instruction), or it can be used to action the fantastically loud inbuilt alarm/siren at the touch of a button. This can also be linked to an automated trigger that you can set up in the camera software events/alerts area – but again, it is REALLY loud. Additionally, the underside of the camera has a screw panel-covered area where you can install a mini SD Card of upto 256GB.

It is worth highlighting that you can only use this feature if you want to maintain local recordings to the camera (24×7 on rotational over-writes and/or accessing recordings and snapshots via your mobile/desktop browser from alerts), as you can always choose to storage recordings on the subscription cloud services from Reolink or via an ONVIF camera supporting NAS drive (such as QNAP or Synology – full confirmation of support and testing coming soon on the YouTube channel).

The wall/ceiling mount that the camera comes bundled with is a little plasticky, but is still sturdy enough to support the weight of the camera easily. All the kit you will need to put it together and mark out where it will be deployed is included and even heavy-duty screws and raw plugs are included too.

Now, as the attached wall/surface mount indicates, the Reolink Duo 2 WiFi camera does NOT support any kind of remote control Pan or Tilt in its operation. Likewise, although there is digital zoom support, the use of the dual lens design for a wider angle means that optical zoom is absolutely not possible either. So, this is definitely a camera that you need to set up correctly, FIRST TIME!

Overall, I cannot fault the design of the Reolink Duo 2 WiFi camera at all. It manages to be surprising petite considering it is effectively two cameras that have been bolted and digitally stitched into one. Likewise, there is plenty of scope for easy deployment and you can clearly see how this camera is IP66 rated, as all opportunities for moisture/dust ingress are almost completely negated. Let’s discuss the hardware and abilities of the Reolink Duo 2 WiFi camera.

Reolink Duo 2 WiFi Camera Review – Hardware

Now, the hardware of any I Surveillance camera is going to be in the sort of tech spec speak that only a fraction of users is really going to understand. So, below I have the full hardware specifications table and then I have broken down each of the important elements that you should care about, for good or bad! The Reolink Duo 2 WiFi camera specifications are:

The two cameras on the front of the Reolink Duo 2 WiFi camera are mounted at angles (not unlike a bird) and each one records in 4K in up to 20FPS. Then the internal system takes the small amount of overlap in between the feed of each camera lens and creates a rectangular image feed with very minimal blur in the center. This means that the cameras can provide a wide lens view (without using any fish eye techniques that warp the image) that covers a staggering 180 degrees.

So, if you take a moment and think about the field of view that you have via your eyes right now. Their combined coverage (with overlap) means you have approx 120 degrees of site, with around 20+ degrees either side that forms your peripheral vision that is constantly being mentally supported/filled in. If you had your back flat against a wall and had the 180-degree field of view afforded to the Reolink Duo 2 WiFi camera – that would mean you have the FULL view of EVERYTHING in your vicinity from immediate left to the immediate right

Then you have the light control and handling of recordings in darker areas/times of day. Each lens features 3 IR sensors and 4X 560 Lumens lights when needed, that allow up to 30 metres of nightvision sight for recording (supporting the automated tracking and triggers).

However, the Reolink Duo 2 WiFi camera goes one step further by including Colour Nightvision, a system of the camera that allows traditionally black-and-white camera recordings to be (on-the-fly) converted into colour.

This is achieved with the camera supporting a sophisticated colour identification system that is not possible in regular two tones black+white night vision modes. I will show an example of this cool colour technique in the software section below, but (alongside the tremendously wide angle of recording) it is really one of the big selling points of the Reolink Duo 2 Camera. Here is a short example of how it appears:

The hardware inside the Reolink Duo 2 WiFi camera is effectively the same as most of the 4K cameras in the brand’s lineup – but effectively doubled. The Camera can be accessed using 3rd party NVR systems via the ONVIF protocol (this includes Synology and QNAP NAS drives, even supporting the dual stream protocol too as two separate feeds in more powerful instances), a desktop Reolink client application, an official mobile app for iOS and Android (more detail on that below) or simply via your web browser via the IP address.

However, you might well hit flash API/plug-in issues in most modern browsers (no fault of reolink, just the way these things go). Let’s go into more detail on the mobile application below.

Reolink Duo 2 WiFi Camera Review – Software

Now, the mobile application that you can use to access the Reolink Duo 2 WiFi camera is available (free, obviously) on iOS and Android. For the most part, all of the features, services and controls are exactly the same, regardless of the Reolink camera you choose to use. It’s only if you are using a camera that has very particular features (such as the Duo 2 camera’s twin lens and/or colour nightvision mode) that you will see any differences in presentation and performance. With well over a million downloads so far and regular updates, the app has come a hell of a long way from my first experiences with it in 2018.

The user interface of the app can be viewed in a large number of ways. Initially (when the phone is in portrait view), you are shown a single camera view with its controls and settings menus visible. This can be switched to a landscape view that can be used to view 1, 4 and 9 split screen camera views. Each view can be set to a live-feed more (i.e. showing what each camera sees live, which will be something of a battery killer!) or each feed with have a static image of what is visible at that moment and you can click each camera manually to get a live feed enabled. These cameras can be accessed over the local area network or can access remotely using the Reolink remote link (HTTPS and Encrypted). It is worth remembering that you in this mode, you are accessing the feed, not a recording. We will touch on the recordings later. Additionally, each camera can have it’s audio in/out accessed as needed from this GUI, as well as any camera featuring pan, tilt, zoom support to be completely controllable on the fly via the app and the live feed.

The default range of cameras you can see on the main GUI/deck and the picture quality of each can also be easily adjusted. So, if you have SPECIFIC cameras that you want to keep an eye on (external perimeter cameras for example), this can be set up in seconds. Likewise, if your camera is running a multi-stream/profile setup (very common on 4K and High Framerate 1080p cameras, in order to run a secondary, low bandwidth intensive output), you can switch the default stream and/or on-the-fly choice very easily from the main GUI and on the control screen of each camera individually.

As mentioned, some cameras have their own unique features and the Reolink Duo 2 WiFi is no exception, with its dual camera design. This feature can be adjusted manually (though it is recommended to leave it at its default settings)  as the small overlap in the middle of the field of view between each camera can be refined. This will be of much more useful to users using the camera in angular corridors and curved walled areas, as otherwise, the default image stitching will blur noticeably. Otherwise, I would leave these settings well alone, as most deployments of the Reolink Duo 2 WiFi will run best on the out-the-box setup.

The Reolink application has continued adding features over the years in line with consumer demands in CCTV, as deployment in the home and small offices has become both popular and very easy. Features such as customized watermarks (i.e. a company logo, or Reolink’s own), privacy masks (where an area of the recorded/live ad-hoc field of view is permanently covered) and customized coverage areas, that allow you to select one/more specific area of the camera feed (such as a door and/or windows) to use for motion/person/pet/vehicle detection. Most recent updates to the Reolink on-camera firmware and the mobile application have massively increased the number of available features (even on older cameras).

Adding and/or accessing the Reolink camera for the most part is exactly the same on any camera in the brand’s portfolio. You can either add the camera by attaching it to your local area network with a LAN/RJ45 camera, or using the 3rd barcode on the base and temporary connectivity via Bluetooth or a brief local hotspot connection. Practically all of the WiFi cameras in Reolink’s portfolio also arrive with RJ45 LAN ethernet ports and in most cases, it is easier to connect the camera to your local router via a cable, then after the app finds the camera, you can manually add the local SSIDs and their passwords as needed. Then just disconnect the camera and deploy it wherever you want and it will connect over WiFi automatically.

Modern camera hardware releases from Reolink take advantage of 3D barcodes which can be used to quickly interface and setup the camera for the first time. Again, just be away that (like the majority of IP Cameras in the home/SMB market) the initial hurdle is always going to be that adding the camera to your network so it can be accessed externally.

The settings and configuration of the Reolink camera can be broken down into three areas. The first is your Reolink account (you will need to create and register one of these before using the app) which allows you to register and claim cameras for your surveillance setup. The 2nd tier (discussed earlier) is the specific camera control and configuration that allows you to change the devices settings. The final tier of configuration is the Apps own configuration, which is surprisingly detailed! This allows you to create the perfect surveillance setup for your needs and cater your alerts and notifications to best suit your needs.

The alerts you receive can either/all be sent as push notifications to your mobile device via the app or via messaging systems (this requires further registration). These alerts and notifications can also be scheduled to ensure that you only get them when you want/need, as well as  support of multiple user accounts and credentials can be created to ensure that key people get the notifications appropriate to their availability.

Now, having all these notifications and alerts for when your camera recognizes that a trigger/rule has been triggered is useful to allow you to connect with the camera and check the feeds on-the-fly, but what about recordings? What are the options for when you want to keep a record of the footage. There are several different options open to you here that scale is cost, utility and ease of use. ALL Reolink IP Cameras arrive with an available Micro SD Card slot that supports up to a single 256GB in the most recent hardware releases (pre 2019 it is 128GB) which can be used to store recordings for alerts OR 24×7 use, with customizable overwrite rules (i.e how many days or recording/retention you want, before you overwrite the oldest files). The higher the image/video quality (resolution AND framerate) and longer the decided clip, the more space you are going to need. Thanks to the customized recording schedules, areas of coverage control in the app camera feed AND the recently added support of Person, Vehicle and Pet detection, you should have considerably fewer false alerts sent your way and much less space wasted on recordings that were made in error. Additionally, all these recordings can be accessed remotely via the Reolink mobile app and there are improved and much more efficient tools such as smart lase playback and high playback speed options included, as well as the option to download a recording inside the camera to your local PC/Mobile device from inside the app.

If you like the idea of using the Reolink software BUT the idea of relying on an SD card inside the camera seems risky (theft/damage of the camera), or you want to consider dual recording methods, then you still have a few different options available. ONVIF-supported Reolink cameras (more than half of the entire Reolink family is Onvif supporting) allow you to connect and existing 3rd party NVR or NAS surveillance software from Synology and QNAP with the camera. Alongside the option to store the recorded footage and events on the NAS, you also have the option to either use the camera’s own alerts/hardware to make it’s decisions on what to record OR you can allow the NAS/NVR to take full control with its own software. It is very adaptable. Lastly, when it comes to remote storage on your Reolink camera, you can use the app to connect your camera to a network/internet-based area of storage (perhaps a low-cost NAS that does not have its own NVR tool, or an area of storage on a server that you partitioned off as a LUN). The FTP Server protocol support is actually quite sophisticated and allows you to create rules for recording quality, naming, encryption and more.

Alongside all these recording methods, there is also the option via the mobile application to take advantage of local recordings. This option, although quite limited in its use compared with SD Card or connected NAS/Cloud storage (as it is much more ad hoc and manually actioned) CAN be useful if you get an alert/trigger pushed to your device, you connect to the camera and see something happening RIGHT NOW that you need to be captured in photo/video form. If you are watching an intruder or event take place anyway, why just rely on your camera storage and/or NAS? Use the local record function to IMMEDIATELY record the footage you have on-screen to your mobile device for faster saving AND to have another copy.

AI recognition has grown in popularity in the world of NVR/CCTV considerably in recent years for two simple reasons. 1) The space required for high quality and legally usable footage in an age of 4K and HEVC recordings has grown considerably and therefore more accurate recordings that only happen when they are needed are much more desirable, and 2) depending on the location of your camera(s), the ease of motion trigger getting triggered by a wandering cat, passing car or more is quite high. This 2nd point also highlights the desire by users for much more tailored alerts. i.e., you have a camera outside of your building and you know people will be walking back and forth all day, but you WANT to KNOW when a car pulls up outside – vehicle detection, area detection and tailored object detection allows you to o that. The same goes for a home where you want to know if you get an intruder, but do not want your dog accidentally triggering motion alerts.

Practically all Reolink cameras arrive with some form of nightvision, which can be broken down into two things. The first is that the camera has the ability to use multiple onboard LEDs to automatically enable when the cameras sensor notes that the ambient light has diminished. These LEDs allow the camera to see a considerable distance (typically, the more sensors, the further it can see) and the Reolink Duo 2 WiFi is one the best-equipped examples of this, thanks to its dual-lens design. Additionally, most Reolink cameras released after 2020 arrive with an onboard light that can be manually or motion-triggered to increase the light in the field of view.

However, the Reolink Duo 2 WiFi also introduces a newer feature (available on other cameras but improved for this camera and future releases) that allows the camera to convert a black and white scale nightvision recording into colour with the use of light and identify particular colour spectrums. The difference between the two is quite notable and can be applied to BOTH low-quality and high-quality streamed feeds on the fly. Very impressive and VERY useful.

Finally, when it comes to interaction with your camera, if you have audio in/out (as found in the Reolink Duo 2 Wifi), you have the option on all camera feeds (at the click of the microphone icon) to talk into your phone and immediately output the audio to the camera location. Additionally, you can use the audio input function to hear/record any audio alongside your recordings (or independently if you choose). However, particular cameras (with the Reolink Duo 2 WiFi being one of them of course) have the option of an inbuilt alarm/siren that is remarkably loud! This can be set to action upon motion being detected (whole capture area or pre-set area with object detection) to deter would-be intruders OR you can manually action it in just two clicks remotely. The volume of the alarm and the sensitivity of the motion detection can be easily adjusted.

As I said at the start, the Reolink mobile application has evolved incredibly quickly over the last few years and although some features (such as cloud recording) are still locked behind paid subscriptions and/or only certain devices in the product family, the app is still free with your camera purchase AND allows you to use ALL the other features with an SD Card, NAS, NVR or FTP server (depending on the camera of course). Throughout my testing, it continued to be very responsive, smooth and aside from the inevitable range of permissions (storage access, mic access, camera access, etc) that you will need to enable on your client device to use all the features, it felt very secure and stable.

Reolink Duo 2 WiFi Camera Review – Conclusion

It is really, REALLY hard to fault the Reolink Duo 2 camera! Although it is by no means the most affordable home/business camera that the brand has ever released, considering we are talking about a 2 lens camera, that outputs in 4K, has an incredible 180-degree capture area, is IP66 outdoor weather protected, supports Alexa/Google-Home AND has some substantial wireless area coverage – for the £169 pricetag, it’s a bloody good deal. It’s worth noting that this price tag does NOT include your storage, which (depending on your retention needs) is going to range from as little as £10 for a 128GB SD Card, to a NAS server and/or a cloud subscription every month. You cannot even really fault Reolink for it’s range of supported connections, with the Reolink Duo 2 range arriving in this WiFi form, a PoE form, a Battery powered (solar panel too) form and even a 4G SIM version to use it’s own data plan. The camera is a little heavy than you might think, is a little more power hungry than your atypical 1 lens camera and is slightly wider/deeper than your typical bullet/dome camera – but these are very small complaints and overall this is probably (IMO!) the best camera that Reolink have ever released.

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Finally, for free advice about your setup, just leave a message in the comments below here at NASCompares.com and we will get back to you. Need Help? Where possible (and where appropriate) please provide as much information about your requirements, as then I can arrange the best answer and solution to your needs. Do not worry about your e-mail address being required, it will NOT be used in a mailing list and will NOT be used in any way other than to respond to your enquiry. [contact-form-7] TRY CHAT Terms and Conditions

If you like this service, please consider supporting us. We use affiliate links on the blog allowing NAScompares information and advice service to be free of charge to you.Anything you purchase on the day you click on our links will generate a small commission which isused to run the website. Here is a link for Amazon and B&H.You can also get me a Ko-fi or old school Paypal. Thanks!To find out more about how to support this advice service check HEREIf you need to fix or configure a NAS, check Fiver Have you thought about helping others with your knowledge? Find Instructions Here  

 

Or support us by using our affiliate links on Amazon UK and Amazon US

    

 

Alternatively, why not ask me on the ASK NASCompares forum, by clicking the button below. This is a community hub that serves as a place that I can answer your question, chew the fat, share new release information and even get corrections posted. I will always get around to answering ALL queries, but as a one-man operation, I cannot promise speed! So by sharing your query in the ASK NASCompares section below, you can get a better range of solutions and suggestions, alongside my own.

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