Lorex vs Hikvision:
Among the many things that make our homes and businesses comfortable is the aspect of safety. In the sense that you cannot be at home all the time, you certainly need a security system that you can count on to be your eyes in your absence. Luckily, the industry has a ton of solutions for home security systems, especially IP CCTVs. Hikvision and Lorex present their respective solutions to this issue.
There are a few things to think about when it comes to home security systems, and that includes how the particular system benefits you, your loved ones, or your business. Here are a few benefits of home security systems;
- They will help you protect your valuables from theft
- They allow you remote access to your home
- They will send you notifications in case of fires or gas problems
- They will greatly help you monitor your kids’ activities
- They will allow you to improve on electricity management even remotely
- Lastly, they make some room for peace of mind.
With many solutions available on the market, making a decision could be overwhelming. In this article, we will discuss and compare two of the best brands in the home security systems industry; Hikvision and Lorex. Keep reading, and hopefully, by the end of the article, you’ll have a solution to your security problems.
Brand Overview: Hikvision vs Lorex
Hikvision is a Chinese-based brand, that has gained massive traction in the last decade. Founded in 2001, Hikvision provides a wide range of security products, ranging from access control to video security such as CCTVs and alarm systems. Over the last decade, the company has proven itself to be a leader by providing A-level, AI-powered integrated security systems in more than 100 countries. They are extending operations into robotics, smart homes, energy, education, and much more.
On the other hand, Lorex is a Canadian-based company that specializes in the design and development of smart home security and business monitoring systems. They have a wide range of products, including wired and wireless cameras, doorbells, smart home security systems, and other smart home accessories.
Both companies have a substantial reputation when it comes to security and surveillance, although Hikvision tends to be known globally while Lorex is more established in North America.
Product Lineup: Camera Systems
When it comes to security cameras, the two brands( Hikvision vs Lorex) have reputable categories of products, including Bullet, Dome, Turret, and PTZ cameras. We will compare the best models from each manufacturer, based on the most important features.
Resolution And Field of View
The most famous bullet camera from Hikvision is the model DS-2CD2043G0-I. The 4MP Bullet camera is a true IP camera that shoots 4MP resolution videos at a rate of 30 fps. It works just fine, and in addition, the 120 dB WDR technology prevents excess light from filling the footage with blind spots. The field of view of the 4MP camera is about 103 degrees, which isn’t a bad option for fronts, backyards, and corridors.
On Lorex, model LNB8963B notably records ultra-clear videos thanks to the 4K ultra-HD resolution feature. Additionally, it has a 4X optical zoom that makes it easier to play around with the footage. The field of view is about 102-139 degrees, depending on where you want to set it.
When it comes to Dome cameras, both brands are closely competitive regarding the field of view and resolution. They both have large sensors and, thus, can capture 2K-resolution images and videos. They also perform pretty well under poorly lit and rainy conditions. Lastly, the domes are both rotating cameras that can turn up to 355 degrees, making them ideal for wide areas.
Power And Installation
Generally, the two brands’ cameras are pretty easy to install. If you have a little knowledge and time, they are DIY. They both require a PoE wire to connect to both the internet and the power. Luckily, the Lorex Bullet camera comes with a 30m CAT5e cable. The Hikvision Bullet camera also supports an Ethernet connection.
The case is the same regarding Dome cameras from both brands. The Lorex Dome camera, however, comes with a 100-foot cable, which makes it easy to install.
Night Vision, Motion Detection, and Audio.
The Hikvision 4MP Bullet camera has IR LEDs that provide clear visibility at night up to 100 feet. Again, the IR cut filter combines with the WDR technology to prevent blind spots in the footage, even if the camera is near a bright source of light. The camera also has motion detection, which triggers notifications. Lastly, there is no audio output, so you only get video footage.
Lorex Bullet, on the other hand, has a night viewing range of about 250 feet thanks to the IR night and color vision features. The camera also performs better in terms of sensitivity and differentiating objects. Like the Hikvision, the camera doesn’t support audio.
The Hikvision Dome Camera has superior IR LEDs that can provide nighttime coverage up to 100 feet. They also have IR cut filters that remove any light noise from the footage. The Lorex Dome has color night vision (CNV) and ClearNight imaging technology that enable the camera to produce exceptional night coverage.
Lastly, both Dome brands allow you to set and adjust motion detection zones, and finally, they unfortunately don’t have a microphone for audio output.
Footage Storage and streaming.
The Hikvision Bullet and Dome cameras have support for onboard microSD and network-attached storage (NAS). The Lorex Bullet and PTZ Dome Camera lack SD support, and the footage must be streamed and stored over a network. Notably, both cameras have an H.265 compression system to save space.
Hikvision vs Lorex Doorbell:
When it comes to the doorbell, both brands have a superior product that provides basic functions such as an intercom, alarm, remote control, and access to guarantee your safety.
- The Hikvision 2MP doorbell is a notable product that offers full 1080p resolution. However, in that aspect, the Lorex has several variations, such as the 4K wired doorbell, which is superior as it provides a 4K resolution view. Lorex doorbells range from 1080p / 2MP (1920 × 1080) to 4K / 8MP (2160 × 3840) resolutions.
- The two brands offer night vision features, with the Hikvision doorbell offering up to 5m while the Lorex adds on to that feature with a more sensitive person, vehicle, animal, and package detection.
- They both have a slot for microSD storage, upgradable to up to 256GB.
- For power options, Hikvision has only wired options, while Lorex has both battery-powered and wired options. Lastly, both doorbells are two-way talk, which allows for quick responses to messages.
Generally, in the doorbell category, Lorex has more diverse and superior products compared to Hikvision.
Pricing and Value:
Price is an important consideration when getting your home security systems. Comparing the two brands, Lorex tends to have more expensive doorbells, especially the Lorex 4K 32GB Wired Smart Video Doorbell Camera with No Subscription Fee, than Hikvision. For example, a Lorex 4K doorbell camera will cost you around $199.99, while a typical 4K Hikvision doorbell camera will cost you about $87.99.
However, it’s crucial to understand that the cost of a security doorbell camera or system will vary depending on your needs and the features of the cameras. Some high-end Hikvision cameras can be way more expensive than Lorex basic cameras, and vice versa.
Generally, if the price is a top priority for you, Lorex might be a cheaper option for those looking for effective yet affordable security cameras. We, however, recommend you consider other important aspects such as footage quality, ease of installation, and customer support.
Ease Of Use and User Experience:
Generally, both brands are pretty easy to work around. Looking into Hikvision, they have an easy-to-set Hik-connect app, that comes with a very user-friendly interface. The app allows easy access to live and recorded footage, as well as access to camera settings remotely. In addition, Hikvision packages come with a wide range of installation accessories, which makes it easy to set up cameras in different locations.
On the other hand, Lorex also has a friendly Lorex Home App that allows easy remote access to live and recorded footage. They also offer several accessories that will make it easy for you to set up cameras.
Read More: SimpliSafe vs Vivint security solution
Security and Privacy Features:
Cameras and security systems are vulnerable to cyberattacks. However, both brands have put measures in place to make sure that your data is protected from third parties. Hikvision cameras support communication protocols such as HTTPS and SSL, which make sure any data transmitted between cameras and the monitoring and storage system is encrypted and thus protected from cyber-attacks.
When it comes to Lorex, the company does not store or retain any video, as it remains entirely yours and only you have control over it. Also, the footage in transit to your remote device is encrypted and not stored on the cloud to ensure safety. Last but not least is the 2-factor authentication, which provides an extra layer of security.
Customer Support: Which Brand Is Better?
Good customer service is essential when it comes to home security systems. Issues and concerns are common in this field; thus, you need a partner you can rely on. Both brands offer reliable customer support.
Hikvision provides customer support through their website, phone, and email. They also have user-friendly manuals and FAQs that help customers navigate any technical hurdles. Lastly, Hikvision offers a three-year warranty on cameras, which easily stands out from the usual one-year warranty by other brands.
Lorex, on the other hand, also offers support through their website, email, phone, and resourceful manuals and FAQs. However, they only have a one-year warranty on cameras.
So, the two brands offer quite good customer support, but for people who would prefer a longer warranty on products, Lorex could be a better option.
The Verdict
Both brands have unique features that differentiate them from each other. There are many features you should consider before making a decision, including price, features, ease of use and installation, customer support, and much more. Based on the discussed aspects, both Hikvision and Lorex are impeccable brands. However, Hikvision seems to offer a more balanced and comprehensive solution to home security, and thus we recommend it. We hope this review of Hikvision vs Lorex was helpful. If you have any questions, please leave a comment.
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