Reolink Elite Floodlight WiFi: 4K AI Security Camera, No Subscriptions
By Gadget World • 
Introduction
Celebrating its 16th anniversary, Reolink has unveiled the Elite Floodlight WiFi, a security camera designed to address common user frustrations like blind spots, inadequate night-time visibility, and the difficulty of finding specific events in hours of recorded footage. Positioned as the world's first floodlight camera with local AI video search, it offers a compelling blend of advanced features without the burden of mandatory subscriptions.
Unpacking the Key Features
The Reolink Elite Floodlight WiFi is packed with high-end specifications aimed at providing comprehensive security coverage.
Advanced Visuals: 180° Panoramic 4K
At the core of the device is a dual-lens 4K (8MP) camera that delivers a crisp 5120x1552 resolution at 20 fps. Using advanced dual-image stitching technology, it creates a seamless 180-degree panoramic field of view, effectively eliminating blind spots. For nighttime surveillance, the camera is equipped with both color night vision, assisted by its powerful floodlights, and traditional infrared night vision.
Powerful and Smart Illumination
The integrated LED floodlights are a standout feature, offering up to 3000 lumens of brightness capable of illuminating areas up to 12 meters away. A key innovation is the adjustable color temperature, which can be set from a warm 3000K for ambiance to a cool 6000K for high-clarity security. Users can also choose from several adaptive lighting modes:
Tailor Your Lighting: Manual control over brightness and color.
Dusk-to-Dawn: Automatically activates based on ambient light.
Motion-Triggered: Lights up when motion is detected.
On-Device AI: Smart Detection and Search
The headline feature is the Local AI Video Search (Beta), powered by Reolink's ReoNeura AI system. This technology runs entirely on the device, meaning no cloud connection or subscription is needed to use it. Users can search through their saved footage using descriptive phrases like "man in a white hoodie" or "black pickup truck" to instantly locate relevant clips.
Beyond search, the AI provides smart detection to accurately distinguish between people, vehicles, and animals, significantly reducing false alarms. Customizable rules for motion detection, line crossing, and zone intrusion allow for tailored security alerts.
Robust Connectivity and Subscription-Free Storage
The Elite Floodlight WiFi incorporates dual-band Wi-Fi 6 for faster speeds, stronger connections, and lower latency, all secured with WPA3 encryption. Reolink continues its commitment to subscription-free operation by offering multiple local storage options:
microSD card support up to 512GB
Compatibility with Reolink Wi-Fi NVRs
Integration with Reolink Home Hub and Home Hub Pro
Support for FTP/NAS servers (RTSP/ONVIF compatible)
Active Deterrence and Smart Integration
To actively deter intruders, the camera includes a built-in 105dB siren and supports customizable 5-second voice alerts. Two-way audio allows for direct communication. For smart home enthusiasts, the device is compatible with Google Assistant and Alexa, enabling users to view footage on devices like the Google Nest Hub.
Installation and Durability
Designed for the outdoors, the camera has an IP66 weatherproof rating and can be installed on both ceilings and walls. It's important to note that it requires a constant wired AC power connection (100V~240V), so it is not compatible with battery or solar power for continuous operation.
The Reolink Advantage: A Competitive Edge
Reolink sets itself apart from competitors like Ring and Arlo primarily through its subscription-free model. While others place advanced AI search features behind a monthly paywall, Reolink's Local AI Video Search is processed on the device and is free to use. This provides a more private and cost-effective long-term solution.
Furthermore, its 3000-lumen floodlights are brighter than some alternatives, such as the Arlo Wired Floodlight Camera's 2000 lumens. This commitment to providing full functionality without ongoing fees is a core part of the camera's appeal.
Early Reception
Initial hands-on reviews have been positive, praising the sharp 180-degree 4K video, bright floodlights, and accurate AI detection. The local AI search has been highlighted as a game-changing feature for its speed and privacy. The multiple storage options and Wi-Fi 6 connectivity are also seen as significant strengths. The only minor critique noted was the lack of an option to set a specific duration for the floodlights in dusk-to-dawn mode. Overall, it is considered a powerful and convenient all-in-one security solution.