REOLINK RLC-823A 16X PoE PTZ Camera: features, specs and who it suits

The REOLINK RLC-823A 16X is an outdoor pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) security camera with 4K resolution, a 16X optical zoom and power over Ethernet. Where a fixed camera watches one view, a PTZ camera can turn, tilt and zoom to cover a larger area such as a yard, driveway or parking lot. Here is what the specifications mean and what the camera needs to run.

4K and optical zoom

REOLINK lists the resolution as 8MP (4K Ultra HD) and says the varifocal lens gives 16X optical zoom without losing that resolution. Optical zoom changes the lens itself, so detail is preserved as it magnifies, unlike digital zoom, which crops and enlarges the image. REOLINK says this lets you make out distant details such as faces or licence plates, though how much you can read depends on distance, light and angle.

Pan, tilt and tracking

The camera pans through 360 degrees and tilts through 90 degrees. REOLINK gives adjustable speeds of 1.4 to 281 degrees per second for panning and 1.4 to 56 degrees per second for tilting. A continuous pan range means there is no fixed blind spot in its swing, although a wall, tree or the mounting position can still block the view.

Auto tracking lets the camera follow a detected target to keep it in frame. In general, tracking works best in a clear, uncluttered scene and may lose a target that moves quickly or behind obstacles.

Night vision and smart alerts

Infrared night vision is rated to 260 ft (about 79 m). Infrared footage is typically black and white, and the usable range in practice depends on the surroundings, since nearby walls and foliage reflect the light.

The camera distinguishes people, vehicles and pets from other movement, which REOLINK says reduces unwanted alerts. Two-way talk lets you hear and speak through the camera from the app, which REOLINK suggests can be used to deter intruders when an alert arrives. Live view and playback are available through the Reolink App or Client.

Power over Ethernet setup

The camera uses PoE, so a single Ethernet cable carries power, data and video. It needs an IEEE 802.3at PoE source: a PoE NVR, a PoE switch or a PoE injector. REOLINK states that the PoE NVR, switch or injector is not included. An Ethernet cable and a DC power adapter are included. Connected to a Reolink NVR, the camera can record around the clock to the recorder's storage.

Cable length is a practical limit: standard Ethernet runs are typically limited to about 100 m (328 ft) between the camera and the switch.

Size and weight

The camera measures 11.0 x 5.1 x 3.1 inches and weighs 3.5 lb (about 1.6 kg), so the mounting surface needs to be solid.

Who it suits

It suits homeowners and small businesses that want one camera to cover a wide area or to zoom on distant spots, and people who already have, or are planning, a wired PoE network. For a single doorway or window, a fixed camera is often simpler.

What to check before you buy

• PoE source: confirm you have a compatible 802.3at NVR, switch or injector.
• Cable route: plan the Ethernet run from the mounting spot to the switch.
• Mounting: pick a sturdy location with a clear view and weather protection.
• Storage: decide whether to record to a Reolink NVR or other storage the camera supports.
• Privacy: check local rules on filming public areas and neighbours' property.
• App: confirm the Reolink App or Client suits your phone or computer.

The short version

• 4K (8MP) outdoor PTZ camera with 16X optical zoom.
• 360-degree pan, 90-degree tilt and auto tracking.
• Infrared night vision rated to 260 ft and two-way talk.
• Detects people, vehicles and pets.
• Powered by IEEE 802.3at PoE; the PoE source is not included.

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