The10 Best POE Security Camera Systems In 2023

If you’re looking to secure your home or office full and have complete peace of mind, then go for the best PoE security camera system. The topnotch PoE security cameras serve as powerful deterrents discouraging thieves and burglars from attempting a break-in. Nevertheless, in the worst possible case scenario where a burglar breaks in despite installing an outdoor PoE security camera, you’ll always be able to claim recompense from your insurance provider.

Any premium-quality PoE security system will never fail to record evidence of housebreaks, thereby ensuring that you’ll be able to make insurance claims, provided you took out an insurance policy.

What is a PoE security camera system?

The PoE in the PoE security camera system is an acronym which stands for Power over Ethernet. PoE tends to be an innovative and rapidly evolving technology that enables cables or wires not only throughput power but the network (2G/3G/3G/$G) as well.

If you experience issues while managing several cables (and who does not), including tangled or knotty cables, then the PoE system is your best bet.

Any conventional home security camera system needs two distinct cable connections during setup-one for supplying power and another for linking with the LAN or WAN.

However, a PoE-compatible security camera can be connected to a network and also receive power supply from only one cable known as the Ethernet cable.

Best POE Security Camera Systems

Reolink

The Reolink 16Ch PoE Home Security Camera System is one of the best PoE security camera systems you can go for.

This PoE security camera system comprises eight 5MP IP cameras, every camera having a 2560 x 1920 pixel resolution. When you install this 16-channel channel PoE camera system, you can rest assured that your home or office will be almost immune to break-ins.

With a total of eight cameras keeping guard round the clock, you can take it for granted that this PoE security camera system capture every detail.

You have preinstalled 2TB HDD (replaceable by up to 4TB of storage) to ensure that you can record footages consistently without missing anything. A single PoE cable powers the system runs videos and audios, which make the installation process amazingly simple.

The Reolink app lets you access videos via your iOS/Android phone or tab as well as your Mac/Windows PC.      

Tech Specs

• Item weight: 24.1 pounds
• Resolution: HD 2560×1920
• Night vision: 65-100ft, 18pcs IR LEDs
• Lens: 80°@4.0mm
• Storage: 3TB hard disk
• View angle: Horizontal: 80°, Vertical: 58°
• Cameras: Supports up to 4 cameras
• Product Dimensions: 14.5 x 11.6 x 14 inches
• IP66 durable weatherproof metal housing
• Daylight sensor (day/night auto switch)

Pros

Cons

Reolink 4K PoE Security Camera System

Another PoE Security Camera System from Reolink that can be branded as one of the most performance-oriented 4K PoE security camera systems.

This Reolink 4K PoE Security camera system delivers images having a 3840 x 2160 pixels resolution, which means you get to see everything vividly.

This security camera system holds a mirror to what exactly is happening around your home inside out.    

The eight-channel security system works perfectly for companies that require indoor/outdoor surveillance and also for small and medium-size homes.

The IP66 waterproof and weatherproof casing around the cameras enables this 4K PoE security cameras system to function smoothly 24/7 and throughout the year.

You can playback footages and watch live recordings by connecting your Android/iOS tab smartphone or tab with the security system via the Reolink app.  

Tech Specs

• Item weight: 13.95pounds
• Resolution: 3840 x 2160 pixels
• Night vision: 100ft, 18pcs IR LEDs
• Lens: 80°@4.0mm
• Storage: 2TB hard disk
• View angle: Horizontal: 97°@ 4.0mm
• Cameras: supports 8 IP cameras
• Product dimensions: 14.8 x 7.7 x 11.4 inches
• 4mm lens with 97° FOV (horizontal) 51° FOV (vertical)

Pros

Cons

Amcrest

The 4K 8MP PoE Security Camera System w/4K 8-Channel NVR by Amcrest displays images of 3840 x 2160P resolution and records footages at the rate of 30 frames per second.

So, you can bet that you’ll never miss a thing when you playback footages and review images captured by this eight-channel PoE camera system.

The cameras have a 2.8mm lens with a stunning 101° field of view (FOV), and IR LED night vision capability implies visibility up to a whopping 164 feet.

The cameras are encased in IP67 weatherproof metal housing, which makes the security system incredibly versatile and handy.

You get more recording time, thanks to the state-of-the-art H.265 compression technology, which helps save overall storage space.

Installation of this Amcrest 4K eight-channel PoE camera system is rendered a breeze, thanks to the system’s compatibility with Ethernet cables.   

Tech Specs

• Resolution: 3840×2160 pixel
• Night vision: 164 feet
• Lens: 2.8mm
• Storage: 2TB hard disk (external support up to 10TB HD)
• View angle: Horizontal: 111°
• Cameras: supports 4 IP cameras
• Standard recording modes like motion detection, scheduled, and manual
• Multiple alarm/trigger features

Pros

Cons

HeimVision HM 541

The HeimVision HM 541 5MP PoE Security Camera System with 10” LCD captures crisp and crystal clear images.

On the other hand, the NVR recorder captures and records high-resolution footages that you can view on the 10” LCD monitor.

You can keep an eye over your abode from anywhere on your PC, smartphone, or tab.

Connectivity this HeimVision PoE security is a breeze as you can power on the security system via your existing power cable, Wi-Fi router, and the included 65ft Ethernet cable.

You get instant alerts, messages, and emails about suspicious activities around your home on your smartphone.

The 8-channel, 5MP NVR is equipped with the capability to be hooked up with an additional 4pcs set of 5MP PoE cameras.   

Tech Specs

• Item weight: 12.8 pounds
• Dimensions: 12.2 x 9.1 x 10.2 inches
• Night vision: 65 feet
• Storage: 1TB hard disk
• View angle: Horizontal: 180°
• Cameras: supports 4 cameras
• One 8-channel 5MP network video recorder (NVR)
• 4 x 65ft Ethernet cable with waterproof connector

Pros

Cons

ZOSI

The network video recorder of the ZOSI PoE home security camera system is capable of recording 5MP ultra high definition videos.

You can view in real-time as the NVR records footages as well as playback the videos at a convenient time.

This home security camera system supports HDMI 4k/8MP (3840 x 2160) throughput, thereby allowing you to watch all recordings on your HDTV.

The ZOSI POE Home Security Camera System takes full advantage of the H.265+ technology, enabling you to save up to 90% storage in comparison to standard H.265.

The H.265+ delivers smoother video streaming without sacrificing image quality.

You receive power supply and footage signals via a single PoE Ethernet cable, rendering this security camera system very user-friendly.   

Tech Specs

• Item weight: 11.8 pounds
• Resolution: 1080P
• Night vision: 120 feet
• Lens: 2.8mm
• Storage: 1TB hard disk
• Cameras: supports 8 IP cameras
• Dimensions: 17 x 12.5 x 7 inches
• H.265+video coding

Pros

Cons

Amcrest 4MP Security Camera System

The USP of this 4MP PoE Security Camera System from Amcrest has to be its built-in H.265+ compression technology, which helps save immensely on storage.

And the greater the storage space, the higher the total footage quantity you can record and backup.

The H.265+compression technology compresses recording and image data without compromising on ultra HD video quality.

The network video recorder can document footages in 1MP, 2MP, 3MP, 4MP, 5NMP, 6MP, and 9MP (4K) resolution.

You simply need to download the Amcrest View App on your iOS/Android phone, Mac/Windows PC, for accessing recordings locally as well as remotely.

The included Ethernet cables allow you to hook up and monitor the entire security camera system.

Tech Specs

• Item weight: 1.1 pounds
• Dimensions: 6.3 x 6.3 x 5.5 inches
• Resolution: 2688x1520P
• Night vision: 98 feet
• Lens: 2.8mm & 3.6mm
• Storage: 2TB hard disk
• View angle: Horizontal: 90°
• Cameras: supports 4 IP cameras

Pros

Cons

SAANCE 1080P XPOE

The XPOE Security Camera System with 1080P network video surveillance capability comes equipped with a host of versatile features.

For a start, the plug-and-play functionality means you can get the PoE cameras up and running with only a single Ethernet cable.

Then again, the slightest of suspicious movement or tapping in the vicinity of your home or office will trigger the motion detection alarm.

The PoE security cameras are reinforced with responsive IR night vision capability, enabling them to capture everything at night within a 30m (100ft) perimeter.

The 1080P video resolution capacity means that this XPOE security camera system from SAANCE captures everything in detail with clarity.

All four cameras are housed in sturdy IP66 weatherproof metal sheaths, which protect the units from inclement weather, dust, and rainwater.   

Tech Specs

• Item weight: eight pounds
• Package Dimensions: 15.4 x 12.3 x 6.9 inches
• Resolution: 1080P
• Night vision: IR 100ft night vision
• Lens: 2.8mm
• Storage: 1TB hard disk
• View angle: Horizontal: 360°
• Cameras: supports 4 IP cameras
• 4-channel system
• 1 x 4 Ethernet cables

Pros

Cons

ANNKE

The ANNKE 8-Ch 5MP PoE Security Camera System with 4K NVR and upgraded H.265 compression technology is one of the best PoE security camera systems around.

And for good reasons, the superior 5MP HD system ensures that you can view subjects and objects situated far away.

At the same time, you never miss the subtle details your eyes more often than not, cannot distinguish.

Embedded with innovative PoE technology, this home security camera system springs to life and transmits vivid video signals via a single Ethernet cable.

EXIR- array night vision LEDs ensure that the security system frames everything within a boundary of 100ft. H.265+ superlative video encoding technology squeezes transmission bandwidth and compresses storage consumption without sacrificing video streaming quality.

Tech Specs

• Item weight: 9 pounds
• Dimensions: 15.1 x 12.6 x 11 inches
• Resolution: 3860 x 2160p resolution
• Night vision: 100ft
• Lens: 2.8mm
• Storage: 1TB hard disk
• View angle: 120° FOV
• Cameras: supports 4 IP cameras

Pros

Cons

Hornbill 4K PoE 8-Channel

Opting for the Hornbill 4K PoE 8-channel security camera guarantees complete peace of mind as your home remains impregnable.

This intelligent PoE security camera system alerts you immediately of any impending housebreak, thereby keeping your home off-limits to burglars.

PoE compatible cable extending up to 330ft allows you to install the security camera system easily.

The same Ethernet cable also enables 2G/3G/4G throughputs allowing the security camera to receive digital signal for recording, playback, and live to view.

You can take advantage of the ‘Guard Viewer’ free app for checking out camera feeds in real-time and also backup footage on your tab, PC, or phone remotely.

This Hornbill PoE security camera setup sends you motion alarms via email or app, thus keeping you posted on happenings around your home.  

Tech Specs

• Item weight: 16.95 pounds
• Package Dimensions: 17.9 x 9.4 x 17.5 inches
• Resolution: 3860 x 2160p resolution
• Night vision: 100ft
• Storage: 2TB hard disk
• View angle: 153° Wide Angle
• Cameras: supports 8 IP cameras
• NVR resolution: 4K (8MP)
•  1 x 4 bullet 4K camera
• Free Guard Viewer app

Pros

Cons

Swann

The Swann Security Camera System comprising four eight-channel PoE security cameras with 4K UHD NVR with numerous versatile features can keep your abode fully secure.

For a start, it features thermal sensors that immediately detect unwanted intrusions and suspicious activities, and informs you via push notifications.

Tough weatherproof cameras, capable of enduring the elements, never drop guard all through the year.

Downloading the Swann Security App to your phone, tab, or PC lets you view live recordings and playbacks anywhere anytime.

4 K UHD, with four times the 1080p full HD resolution, lets you see fast-moving traffic, faces, and even registration plates of vehicles. 

Tech Specs

• Item weight: 13.7 pounds
• Package Dimensions: 11 x 16.9 x 11.6 inches
• Resolution: 1080p
• Night vision: 130ft
• Storage: 1TB hard disk
• Cameras: supports 4 cameras
• Four thermal sensings 4K PoE security cameras
• PoE NVR 4K UHD NVR for HD video surveillance

Pros

Cons

FAQs

Do You Need The Internet To Activate and Operating The PoE Security Camera System?

Yes, you can power on and operate any PoE (power over the internet) security camera system without an internet connection. You can hook up your PoE security camera system with your existing power supply for activating it and connect it to your Wi-Fi router for remote viewing through the net.

However, you’ll need an internet connection once you’re out of the wireless router coverage area for viewing recordings in real-time and running playbacks.

Analog or digital IP (internet protocol) simply need a single Ethernet cable for powering on as well as transmitting data simultaneously.

Alternatively, you can use your home’s power supply to operate the PoE security camera and connect it with a laptop or PC via a USB jack for data throughput.

Are PoE cameras better than Wi-Fi compatible security cameras?

Wi-Fi security cameras send data via digital signals. The most noticeable benefit of using a Wi-Fi security camera is that you can power it on and operate it by linking it with a wireless router.

However, you’ll still need a wired connectivity source for managing it outdoors up to a specific range.

Using a Wi-Fi security camera for securing your home or office makes sense if your internet connection transmits signals at high speeds.

That said, opting for a PoE camera is more practical as you just need one Ethernet cable for power supply and data transmission.

The signal strength offered by an Ethernet cable is much more powerful compared to a Wi-Fi router.

Do all Ethernet cables support PoE?

The 802.3af PoE standard works fine for networking gadgets that need approximately 13W electrical power. However, you’ll come across numerous PoE-enabled devices that require over 13W of electrical power.

Bear in mind that network connectors and cables can deal with more power, but proprietary PoE devices with high-power ratings do not tend to be backward compatible with the standard 802.3af PoE.

That being said, IEEE introduced a new standard-PoE Plus or 802.3at to accommodate the high-powered PoE compatible devices.

How much power do PoE cameras use?

Most of the PoE security camera brands available in the market follow the IEEE 802.3af standard. PoE security camera models and brands that abide by this IEEE standard usually use 15W of electrical power for continuous and smooth operation.

Conclusion

So, there you are-10 Best PoE security camera systems that can throw an impenetrable security ring around your property. We reviewed two models from Reolink and Amcrest, one model each from Heimvision, ZOSI, SAANCE, ANNKE, Hornbill, and Swann. While the majority of the PoE security brands we assessed were priced over $400 like Reolink, Swann, and Hornbill, there were a couple that was quite affordable, like ZOSI, SAANCE, and ANNKE.