Reolink RLC-840A 4K PoE Security Camera: features, specs and who it suits

The Reolink RLC-840A is a 4K (8MP) turret security camera that gets both power and video over a single Ethernet cable. It has built-in spotlights, two-way talk and a metal weatherproof body, so it is designed for outdoor watching of a driveway, yard or entrance. Here is what the specs mean and what it needs to work.

4K resolution and wide lens

Reolink fits the camera with a 2.8mm lens that gives a 125° wide angle. 4K, or 8MP, means more pixels than 1080p, which typically helps when you zoom in on a recording to read a number plate or see a face, as long as lighting and distance are reasonable. A wide lens covers more ground, but distant subjects appear smaller in the frame. Higher resolution also produces larger video files, so storage lasts less time than with a lower-resolution camera.

Colour night vision and spotlights

Instead of relying only on black-and-white infrared, the RLC-840A has spotlights with a 3000K warm light. Reolink says this lets the camera show colour at night, and the spotlights and two-way talk can be used to warn off unwelcome visitors. Colour video at night is often useful for describing clothing or vehicles. The brand advises keeping the metal housing clean to keep the picture clear.

Person, vehicle and animal detection

The camera includes smart detection that distinguishes people, vehicles and animals. According to Reolink, this is an upgrade from pet detection to animal detection. In practice, detection types let you limit alerts to what you care about, so passing leaves or small movement are less likely to trigger notifications. Exact accuracy depends on the scene and the settings.

Weather and vandal resistance

The housing is metal with an IP67 weatherproof class, which in general means it is sealed against dust and can withstand temporary immersion. It also carries an IK10 class, the highest level on the impact scale, which Reolink presents as vandal resistance. An internal swivel bracket lets you adjust the angle during installation. The listing is clear that there is no remote pan/tilt control, so the view is fixed once you set it.

Power over Ethernet and recording

A single Ethernet cable powers the camera and carries the video. The listing notes that no DC adapter is included, so you need a PoE switch or injector. Reolink says the camera records motion events around the clock when paired with a Reolink NVR (network video recorder). A microSD card of up to 256GB can also be used, for local storage on the camera itself.

Wired PoE cameras are generally less affected by Wi-Fi congestion than wireless ones, but they require planning for cable runs. The camera measures about 4.6 x 4.6 x 3.4 inches (11.7 x 11.7 x 8.6 cm) and weighs 1 lb (about 0.45 kg).

Who it suits

It suits homeowners and small businesses who can run an Ethernet cable and want a fixed, high-resolution view with night colour. It is best for people who plan a wired system with a recorder or a PoE switch, rather than a plug-in Wi-Fi camera.

What to check before you buy

• Power source: you need a PoE switch, PoE injector or compatible recorder, because no adapter is supplied.
• Cable route: plan how a network cable will reach the mounting spot, and the maximum Ethernet cable length.
• Fixed view: since there is no pan/tilt, aim the camera carefully when mounting.
• Storage: decide between an NVR and a microSD card, and how many days of 4K footage you want to keep.
• Privacy and rules: check local rules on pointing cameras at public areas or neighbouring property.
• Cleaning: wipe the housing from time to time as the brand recommends.

The short version

• An 8MP (4K) PoE turret camera with a 2.8mm lens and 125° view.
• Colour night vision with 3000K spotlights and two-way talk.
• Person, vehicle and animal detection.
• IP67 weatherproof, IK10 metal housing; no remote pan/tilt.
• Needs a PoE switch or injector; works with a Reolink NVR or microSD up to 256GB.

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