Best Auto Tracking Security Camera 2024

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For years, I’ve been obsessed with home security. It’s not just about paranoia – it’s about peace of mind. I started with basic setups, graduated to complicated DIY systems, and now I delve into the world of professional-grade security for everyday homes.

This year, my focus has been on auto tracking security cameras, and let me tell you, the technology is getting impressive!

But with so many options, choosing the right camera can be overwhelming. That’s why I decided to share my experience and the criteria I used to identify the best auto tracking security cameras of 2024.



Why Trust Me

Before we dive in, let’s establish my qualifications. Here’s why you can trust my recommendations:

  • Years of Experience: I’ve been researching, installing, and testing security cameras for over a decade. I’ve seen the good, the bad, and the downright buggy.
  • Constant Learning: The security industry is constantly evolving. I attend industry conferences, devour security blogs, and stay updated on the latest tech advancements.
  • Independent Perspective: I’m not affiliated with any security camera brand. My recommendations are based solely on performance and value.

Expert Tip: Don’t be lured by every feature. Choose an auto-tracking camera that prioritizes your specific security needs.

Now, let’s get to the good stuff!

Choosing the Best Auto Tracking Security Camera

Here are the key factors I considered when evaluating auto tracking security cameras:

1. Tracking Functionality

  • Accuracy: Can the camera reliably follow a person or object across its field of view?
  • Smoothness: Does the tracking motion create a jerky, disorienting view, or is it smooth and seamless?
  • Detection Zones: Can you customize zones where the camera focuses its tracking? This is crucial to avoid getting alerts for irrelevant movement like swaying trees.
  • Presets: Do you have the option to set pre-determined positions for the camera to quickly switch to?

2. Video Quality

  • Resolution: Higher resolutions (1080p and above) offer sharper images and allow for better zooming capabilities.
  • Night Vision: How well does the camera perform in low-light conditions? Night vision quality can vary significantly.
  • Field of View: Wider fields of view cover more area, but they can also lead to a decrease in image detail. Consider the size of the area you need to monitor.

3. Weatherproofing

  • Durability: Is the camera built to withstand rain, snow, and extreme temperatures? For outdoor cameras, weatherproofing is essential.
  • Material: Look for cameras with a strong, weather-resistant casing.

4. Smart Features and Integrations

  • Motion Detection and Alerts: Does the camera offer customizable motion detection zones and real-time alerts?
  • Two-Way Audio: Can you communicate with visitors or trespassers through the camera?
  • Cloud Storage and Local Storage Options: Where will your footage be stored? Cloud storage offers convenient access but often requires a subscription. Local storage (microSD card) is a good alternative, but make sure the camera supports large enough cards.
  • Smart Home Integration: Does the camera integrate with your existing smart home ecosystem (e.g., Alexa, Google Assistant)?

5. Price and Value

  • Features vs. Cost: Consider the features you need most and find a camera that offers them at a reasonable price point. Don’t get swayed by flashy features you won’t use.
  • Brand Reputation: Research the brand’s track record for customer service and software updates.

Best Auto Tracking Security Cameras in 2024

REOLINK Trackmix PoE

The Reolink Trackmix PoE is a security camera with a unique dual-lens design that offers several advantages over traditional single-lens cameras. Here’s a closer look at its features and how it might perform:

Pros:

Dual-Lens with Auto-Tracking: The standout feature is the presence of two lenses. One provides a wide-angle view for capturing the whole scene, while the other telephoto lens automatically zooms in on detected objects (people, vehicles, pets) for a closer look. This eliminates the need to choose between a wide field of view or zoomed-in details.

High-Definition Resolution: With 4K resolution (8MP), the Trackmix PoE captures sharp images and videos, allowing for easy identification during playback.

Smart Detection and Two-Way Audio:
The camera can distinguish between people, vehicles, and pets, triggering alerts only for relevant events. Two-way audio lets you communicate through the camera’s built-in microphone and speaker.

Time-Lapse Recording: This feature allows you to condense long periods into short videos, perfect for capturing slow-moving events like construction progress.

Cons:

Limited Time-Lapse Function: Time-lapse recording is only available on the wide-angle view and not compatible with NVRs (Network Video Recorders).

Potentially Higher Cost: Compared to traditional single-lens cameras, the Trackmix PoE might be a pricier option.

Overall:

The Reolink Trackmix PoE is a compelling security camera for those seeking a comprehensive solution with dual-lens functionality and auto-tracking. The high-resolution video, smart detection features, and two-way audio make it a versatile option for home or business security. However, consider the potential limitations of time-lapse recording and the possible higher cost before making your decision.

Who should consider this camera:

  • Homeowners or business owners who want a camera with a wide field of view and the ability to zoom in on specific areas.
  • Users who want smart detection features to minimize false alarms.
  • Those looking for a camera with two-way audio for communication.

Who might want to look elsewhere:

  • Users on a tight budget who prioritize affordability over the dual-lens feature.
  • Those who heavily rely on time-lapse recording functionality, especially when using NVRs.

REOLINK REOLINK RLC-823S2

The Reolink RLC-823S2 is a 4K PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) security camera that boasts high-quality video, powerful zoom capabilities, and color night vision. Here’s a breakdown of its key features and some things to consider:

Pros:

Sharp 4K Resolution: With 8 megapixels, the RLC-823S2 delivers crisp and clear visuals, allowing you to zoom in and identify details without compromising image quality.

Impressive 16X Optical Zoom: This zoom range lets you get a close-up view of distant objects or specific areas within a large field of view.

Color Night Vision with Spotlights: Infrared LEDs provide night vision up to 80 meters, while built-in spotlights illuminate areas for clear color footage even at night.

Smart Detection and Two-Way Audio: The camera can distinguish between people, vehicles, and pets, triggering alerts for relevant events. Two-way audio lets you communicate warnings or instructions through the camera.

POE (Power over Ethernet) Connectivity: This simplifies installation by using a single cable for both power and data transmission.

Cons:

Potential Autofocus Quirks: Some user reviews mention occasional autofocus issues where the camera takes a noticeable time (over 6 seconds) to achieve proper focus after zooming.

Price: This camera is quite expensive so if you are on a budget this camera might not be for you.

Overall:

The Reolink RLC-823S2 is a feature-packed PTZ camera with exceptional zoom, night vision capabilities, and smart detection features. However, the autofocus quirks reported by some users could be a potential drawback. If clear and responsive zoom is crucial for your needs, it’s worth considering user feedback and comparisons with similar cameras.

Who should consider this camera:

  • Homeowners or business owners who need a camera with powerful zoom for monitoring large areas or distant objects.
  • Users who want clear color night vision with the option of spotlights.
  • Those looking for a PTZ camera with smart detection and two-way audio functionalities.

Who might want to look elsewhere:

  • Users who prioritize perfect and immediate autofocus after zooming.
  • Those who are on a budget.

Amcrest IP4M-1068EW-AI

The Amcrest IP4M-1068EW-AI is a PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) security camera loaded with features like built-in AI and powerful zoom. Here’s a breakdown of its pros, cons, and who it might benefit most:

Pros:

Integrated AI Features: Eliminates the need for a separate AI NVR by offering built-in features like face detection, object recognition (tripwire, intrusion, etc.), and human auto tracking.

Sharp Visuals Day and Night: Delivers high-quality 4MP video with a wide field of view. Its exceptional night vision with starlight technology and IR LEDs provides clear footage up to 328 feet in darkness.

Impressive Zoom Capability: The 25x optical zoom allows for magnified views of distant objects, while the 16x digital zoom offers further magnification.

Multiple Storage Options: Supports various storage solutions like microSD card (up to a massive 512GB!), NAS, Amcrest Cloud, or your computer.

Durable Construction: Weatherproof (IP66) and surge protected for reliable outdoor use.

Secure Data Transmission: Ensures data privacy with HTTPS and SSL encryption.

Additional Features: Includes human and vehicle detection for smarter motion alerts, and TVS lightning protection for handling electrical surges.

Cons:

Requires PoE+ Power: Needs a separate PoE+ injector or switch (not included) for operation, adding extra cost.

No Built-in Speaker (for two-way audio): While supporting two-way audio communication, the camera lacks a built-in speaker, requiring a separate solution.

Overall:

The Amcrest IP4M-1068EW-AI is a feature-rich PTZ camera with built-in AI functionalities, excellent night vision, and powerful zoom. The multiple storage options enhance its flexibility. However, the requirement for a separate PoE+ injector and potential limitations with auto tracking are important considerations.

Who should consider this camera:

  • Homeowners or business owners seeking a comprehensive security solution with AI features, PTZ functionality, and clear night vision.
  • Users who require a camera with a wide field of view, long-range zoom, and intelligent detection features.
  • Those who prefer a camera with multiple storage options, including local storage via microSD card.

Who might want to look elsewhere:

  • Users on a tight budget who cannot accommodate the cost of a separate PoE+ injector.
  • Users who require a camera with a built-in speaker for two-way audio communication.

SUNBA P636 V2

The Sunba P636 V2 is a PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) security camera that emphasizes affordability and intelligent features. Let’s break down its pros, cons, and who it might benefit most.

Pros:

Impressive Zoom: The 36x optical zoom allows you to magnify distant objects for detailed views.

Smart Tracking & Object Recognition: The camera can automatically track people and vehicles, keeping them in frame. It can also detect objects like left items or perimeter intrusions, triggering alerts.

Face Capture & Head Counting (Limited Angle): This camera can capture faces and count people within a specific viewing angle, potentially useful for access control or traffic analysis.

Night Vision & Two-Way Audio: The P636 V2 offers clear night vision with automatic switching and built-in LEDs. Two-way audio allows for communication through the camera.

Easy Setup & Compatibility: The camera supports plugin-free viewing on web browsers and works with various NVRs for recording. It also comes with a DC adapter for power.

Durable Construction: The weatherproof casing (IP66) and anti-vandal aluminum construction ensure the camera can withstand outdoor elements.

Cons:

Requires PoE+ (Potential Extra Cost): While a DC adapter is included, for full functionality, a separate PoE+ adapter (not included) is needed, adding to the cost.

Limited Face Capture Angle: Face capture and head counting features require specific camera positioning for optimal performance.

Overall:

The Sunba P636 V2 is a budget-friendly PTZ camera with a feature set that includes powerful zoom, smart tracking, object recognition, night vision, and two-way audio. While it requires a separate PoE+ adapter for full functionality and user reviews on auto tracking accuracy would be helpful, it offers a compelling option for those seeking an affordable feature-rich PTZ camera.

Who should consider this camera:

  • Homeowners or business owners on a budget who want a PTZ camera with zoom, object recognition, and night vision.
  • Users who require a camera for perimeter protection with features like line crossing and intrusion detection.
  • Those who might benefit from face capture or head counting features within the camera’s limited angle.

Who might want to look elsewhere:

  • Users who require a wider field of view for face capture and head counting.

FAQ: Auto Tracking Security Cameras

Q: Are auto tracking cameras better than regular security cameras?

A: It depends on your needs. Auto tracking cameras are great for capturing moving objects across a wide area. However, they can be less effective for monitoring specific points of entry.

Q: Do auto tracking cameras require a subscription?

A: Not necessarily. Some cameras offer basic features without a subscription, but features like cloud storage and advanced motion detection may require a paid plan.

Q: How do I install an auto tracking security camera?

A: Installation difficulty varies depending on the camera. Some are completely wireless and self-install, while others require wiring and might be best left to a professional.

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