Asecam Budget Auto-Tracking Security Camera: A Comprehensive Review

Finding a budget-friendly security camera that doesn’t compromise on quality can be challenging. Today, we’re putting the Asecam budget auto-tracking security camera to the test, examining its features to determine if it’s the best affordable choice for your home security needs.

Specifications and Features

The Asecam PTZ POE camera boasts an 8MP sensor with 20x optical zoom (plus an additional 10x digital zoom). It uses a 4.7 to 94mm lens, providing a versatile range for various surveillance scenarios. The camera can record in 4K resolution (3840×2160) at a maximum of 20 frames per second. Its PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) capabilities allow for 350 degrees of panning and 90 degrees of tilting.

Key features include:

Performance

The auto-tracking feature, activated by preset 80, performs adequately for subjects moving at a normal walking pace. However, it struggles with faster movements, often losing the target due to slow camera response and narrow viewing angles caused by auto-zoom. This can be adjusted in the camera settings.

Image quality is impressive for its price range. While not the absolute best 4K we’ve seen, it’s more than sufficient for identifying individuals or reading license plates at distances up to 80 meters. Night vision performance is decent, with the infrared range extending up to an impressive 100 meters.

Build Quality and Durability

The camera features a combination of metal (top part and bracket) and plastic construction. Our waterproof test, involving spraying the camera with water, showed promising results. However, long-term exposure to harsh weather conditions may still affect its performance over time. For best results, consider placing the camera under some cover if possible.

Setup and Interface

The camera comes with DHCP enabled, allowing for easy plug-and-play setup on your network. Its web interface is accessible by typing the camera’s IP address into a browser, with default login credentials (Username: Admin, Password: 123456). The interface provides access to live view, playback, and a comprehensive range of settings.

Software and Connectivity

Users can connect to the camera using the “videolink” app, which offers instant push notifications for detected motion and allows viewing of playback footage stored on the micro SD card. The camera is also compatible with most NVRs or software that supports ONVIF protocol.

Price and Value

At the time of this review, the camera was priced at $192 on AliExpress, representing good value for its feature set and performance.

Conclusion

The Asecam budget auto-tracking security camera offers a compelling package for its price point. While it has some limitations, such as slower PTZ response during auto-tracking, it provides good image quality, useful features, and decent build quality. For those seeking an affordable yet capable security camera for home or small business use, this Asecam model is worth considering.

Remember to check the latest prices and customer reviews before making your purchase decision. As always, it’s important to assess your specific security needs and compare different options to find the best fit for your situation.