Hands-on review: Lorex 2K Pan-Tilt Outdoor Wi-Fi Security Camera
Lorex is a brand specialising in security products, from video doorbells to security cameras. The 2K Pan-Tilt Outdoor Wi-Fi Security Camera immediately appealed to me when I read, in friendly lettering on the box, "No Monthly Fees." All the data stays with you, meaning that your stored data stays with you. Importantly, it also means no forking out for pesky subscriptions.
The Lorex app will notify you of any activity, which will be stored to the included 32GB SD card. Whether your visitor comes by day or night, you're assured of clear, crisp colour photos (taken by you via the app) or videos.
The second feature to catch my eye was, "Person Detection." It is designed to recognise when a person enters the camera's field of vision. Through the App you will be notified, and from there you have a range of options. This is a security camera which allows two-way interaction, thanks to a built-in microphone. If you need to escalate from a friendly conversation, there's a less friendly siren function plus dual LED lights to illuminate the scene.
The setup process is a simple affair. If you know how to scan QR codes, you will be up and running in no time. I'm assuming of course that you haven't forgotten your Wi-Fi password. For those of you with wired home internet, you will be able to connect an ethernet cable to the camera. This is a great option if you use any of the Lorex Fusion devices. Lorex offers a range of these storage devices.
Main Specifications and features:
Max video resolution: 2K (2560 x 1440)
Field of view: 107º Diagonal
Night Vision Range: 10m
Speaker/ 2 Way talk: Yes
Microphone: Yes
Network connectivity: 2.4GHz
For those of you with smart homes, you'll be pleased that Lorex have added completability with Amazon's Alexa and Google Assistant. The Lorex app gives you access via your mobile device.
Installation: I will be leaving physical installation to the experts, as I am wiring it into an existing circuit currently used by a security light. The Lorex 2K comes with a mounting bracket that can be attached vertically or horizontally to outside surfaces. It includes a handy mounting template, screws and anchors, and an ethernet cap cover for those of us using Wi-Fi. The Lorex website is well laid out with links to "how-to" articles, the Apps for iPhone and Android, and a product compatibility chart. Apart from that, you will need a screwdriver, drill, ladder and no fear of heights.
Pan and Tilt: This is another way of saying, no-where to run, no-where to hide. The camera will track persons within range and will give you crystal-clear images of them. If you require more illumination, motion-activated dual LED lights will switch on, and if your visitor is unwanted, the remotely activated siren can be used via the app. You also have pan and tilt control via the app, which provided me with lots of fun.
Local Storage: Video footage can be stored on the provided 22GB MicroSD card. I mentioned earlier that there are no subscription or monthly fee charges, as all data is stored by you. This makes the Lorex 2K Pan-Tilt a cost-effective alternative to other products that charge for online storage. If you want more storage, I notice that Lorex offer a range of Fusion Recorders that can be connected via ethernet.
Final Impressions: The Lorex 2K Pan-Tilt camera is an option that is easy to install and operate. The App makes operation simple, and the pan and tilt functions are motion operated. The picture and video quality is excellent both by day and night. With no ongoing subscription costs, the Lorex 2K Pan-Tilt Camera is both a quality and affordable home security option.
