Reolink Argus Eco Ultra review: 4K rechargeable surveillance camera without subscription
The Reolink Argus Eco Ultra is a 4K battery-powered surveillance camera that works completely wirelessly and impresses with smart motion detection and color night vision. The test shows how good the image quality really is, how reliably the motion detection works and whether the battery delivers what it promises in practice. There is also a look at the storage options with microSD card, Home Hub and Home Hub Pro as well as integration into smart home systems such as Alexa, Google Assistant and Home Assistant.
What you can expect in this blog post
- Installation & first impressions: How easy is it to set up the Argus Eco Ultra? What are the special features of solar operation?
- Image quality & night vision: How does the 4K battery-powered surveillance camera perform day and night? Black and white vs. color night vision in comparison.
- Motion detection & false alarms: How reliable is the PIR sensor? What are the differences to image-based motion detection?
- Battery life & weather resistance: How long does the battery last? What are the restrictions in cold temperatures?
- Storage & Home Hub Pro: What storage options are available? When is it worth using the Reolink Home Hub Pro?
- Smart home integration: How well does the connection to Alexa, Google Assistant & Home Assistant work? Which automations are possible?
- Conclusion & recommendation: For whom is the Argus Eco Ultra worthwhile and what alternatives are there?
Argus Eco Ultra test – Installation & first impressions
Installing the Reolink Argus Eco Ultra is quick and easy. As the camera works completely wirelessly, no network cables or fixed power supply are required. The 21.6Wh battery ensures a long battery life, and the Reolink Solar Panel 2 (6W) can be used to power the camera continuously. Thanks to the 4 meter long cable, the solar panel can be flexibly positioned in a sunny location, while the camera itself can also be mounted in the shade.
Scope of delivery of the Reolink Argus Eco Ultra
The package includes:
- Reolink Argus Eco Ultra camera
- USB-C charging cable
- Mounting accessories (screws, dowels, bracket)
- Quick guide & monitoring sticker
The Reolink Solar Panel 2 (6W) is optionally available and enables independent power supply without manual charging.
Reolink Argus Eco Ultra in the Home Hub Pro Bundle
The camera is also available in a bundle with the Reolink Home Hub Pro. The Home Hub Pro offers central storage and management of up to 24 cameras and has a built-in 2 TB hard disk that can be expanded to up to 16 TB. The combination of Argus Eco Ultra and Home Hub Pro is ideal for anyone who prefers a comprehensive security solution with local storage.
More details about the Home Hub, its functions and technical specifications can be found in this detailed blog post: Reolink Home Hub – Central Storage & Surveillance Center.
Compact design & flexible installation
The Argus Eco Ultra is compact and can be installed almost anywhere. With dimensions of 191 × 75 × 75 mm and a weight of 431 g, it is light and unobtrusive, making it ideal for monitoring entrances, backyards or areas that are difficult to see.
The flexible bracket enables wall or ceiling mounting as well as attachment to poles or fences.
- 4K 8MP FARBIGE NACHTSICHT: Tauchen Sie ein in eine super klare Welt mit dieser optimierten, batteriebetriebenen Außenkamera. Sie ist mit leistungsstarken Spotlights ausgestattet und erfasst selbst nachts die kleinsten Details. Dunkle Ecken werden erleuchtet, kein Platz für Gefahr zu verstecken.
- 2,4/5GHz WLAN-KONNEKTIVITÄT: Diese Solar WLAN Kamera unterstützt sowohl 2,4GHz- als auch 5GHz-WLAN. Wählen Sie 2,4GHz für stabilere Verbindung oder 5GHz-WiFi für schnellere Geschwindigkeit. Entscheiden Sie sich je nach Installationsort der Kamera für das geeignetste WLAN-Band.
- STANDALONE & 100% KABELLOS: Die Überwachungskamera Aussen Akku wird mit einem 6W-Solarpanel geliefert, das Nonstop-Stromversorgung gewährleistet. Installieren Sie die Kamera mit der um 360° drehbaren Halterung und dem 4m langen Solarpanelkabel an Orten mit optimaler Sonneneinstrahlung. Genießen Sie die bequeme Lösung.
- 24/7-SCHUTZ: Bleibt im Standby-Modus und wacht nur beim Erkennen der Bewegung auf. Alle Bewegungsereignisse werden lokal auf der microSD-Karte (max. 512 GB) gespeichert und können später abgespielt werden, auch bei dem Stromausfall oder der abgebrochenen WLAN-Verbindung. Sicherer, sorgenfreier 24/7-Schutz.
- INTELLIGENTE ERKENNUNG: Diese 4K Solar WLAN-Kamera Outdoor kann Personen, Fahrzeuge, Tiere und Bewegung erkennen. Sie können die Erkennungsart flexibel wählen. Für Abspielen der Aufnahmen können Sie die Videoclips ganz einfach nach dem ausgewählten Modus filtern, um die gewünschten Aufnahmen schnell zu finden.
Image quality & night vision – How good are the images?
With a 4K UHD resolution (3840 × 2160 pixels, 8 MP), the Reolink Argus Eco Ultra delivers razor-sharp images – both day and night. The camera uses the modern H.265 codec to compress videos efficiently and save storage space without compromising image quality.
Technical details on image quality & night vision:
- Field of vision: 125° diagonal (105° horizontal, 55° vertical)
- Night vision:
– Color mode: Up to 10 meters with spotlight LEDs (2 × 2W, 6500K)
– Black and white mode: Up to 10 meters IR night vision with 8 infrared LEDs (850 nm) - Frame rate: Maximum 15 frames per second (fps) – limited by battery operation
- Video compression: H.265 for better storage efficiency
Black and white vs. color night vision – My personal experience
The camera offers two different night modes: black and white night vision with IR LEDs and color night vision with spotlight LEDs.
Personally, I prefer the black and white night vision, as the infrared LEDs illuminate the field of vision evenly and are active at all times. Switching to color mode is delayed when motion is detected, as the LED spotlights first have to switch on and the camera has to readjust the image.
Why does this “lag” occur?
When the camera is in standby mode, it initially uses IR night vision. Only when movement is detected does it activate the spotlight LEDs for the color mode. This change takes a moment, because:
- The camera has to recalculate the exposure and white balance in order to react to the changed lighting conditions.
- The image processing must adapt to the additional light in order to achieve a realistic color representation.
- The LED spotlights do not reach their full brightness immediately, but have a short switch-on time.
As a result, it may take a few seconds before the color image is visible in full quality. In my opinion, if you need clear night vision immediately, you are often better off with IR black and white night vision.
- 【4K UHD 180° Uneingeschränkter Blickwinkel】 Zwei Ansichten von den dualen Objektiven werden zu einer nahtlosen 180° 4K Panorama mit minimaler Verzerrung zusammengefügt.
- 【Tag & Nacht in 4K-Farben】 ColorX ermöglicht Nachtsicht in Vollfarbe mit F/1,0-Blende und 1/1,8-Sensor für naturgetreue Details.
- 【Verbesserte Smart-Erkennung mit präzisem Alarm】 Mit einem 180° PIR-Sensor und einem breiten Sichtfeld wird die Wahrscheinlichkeit von Fehlalarmen drastisch reduziert.
- 【Wi-Fi 6 ist bereit, flüssige 4K-Übertragungen】Die erste Akku-Kamera mit Dualband Wi-Fi 6 für reibungsloses 4K-Streaming.
- 【Verschiedene Lokale Speichermöglichkeiten】 Flexible lokale Speichermöglichkeiten einschließlich microSD (bis zu 128 GB) und Home Hub-Integration.
Motion detection & false alarms – How reliable is the Argus Eco Ultra?
The motion detection of the Reolink Argus Eco Ultra is based on a PIR sensor (passive infrared sensor) that reacts to heat sources. This means that moving leaves, spider webs or light reflections do not trigger false alarms, as the sensor only reacts if a heat source (e.g. a person, animal or vehicle) moves within the detection range.
How does PIR motion detection work?
A PIR sensor measures the infrared radiation (heat) emitted by objects. As soon as a heat source moves in front of the camera, the sensor detects a change in the infrared spectrum and triggers the recording.
- Reliably detects people, vehicles and animals
- Reduces false alarms caused by moving objects without a heat signature (e.g. trees, shadows)
- Energy-saving, as the camera is only activated when motion is detected
- Detection range limited to approx. 10 meters
- Sensitivity can be influenced by ambient temperature
PIR vs. image-based motion detection – a comparison
| Feature | PIR sensor (Argus Eco Ultra) | Image-based detection (e.g. AI-supported cameras) |
|---|---|---|
| Recognition principle | Reacts to heat movements | Analyzes image changes (pixel comparison, AI) |
| False alarms due to the environment | Very low (ignores leaves, light changes) | Higher (can react to shadows, moving branches) |
| Detection range | Approx. 10 meters | Up to 30-40 meters |
| Detection at long distances | Restricted | Significantly better |
| Night mode | Works independently of light | Can be affected by poor lighting conditions |
| Reaction speed | Immediate detection | Slightly delayed depending on the image analysis |
| Energy consumption | Very low, ideal for battery-powered cameras | Higher energy consumption due to continuous image processing |
Which technology is better?
The choice between PIR or image-based motion detection depends on the requirements:
- PIR is ideal for battery-powered cameras as it consumes little energy and reduces false alarms. It is a reliable choice for monitoring driveways, entrances or backyards.
- Image-based detection (often AI-supported) is suitable for greater distances or when more precise identification of objects (e.g. people, license plates) is required. However, it can produce more false alarms due to environmental influences and requires more computing power and energy.
My experience with the PIR motion detection of the Argus Eco Ultra
My test has shown that the false alarms of the Argus Eco Ultra are close to zero. My other cameras with image-based motion detection triggered more unnecessary alarms during the test due to snowfall and cobwebs.
However, the PIR sensor has a limited range of approx. 10 meters, which is sufficient for driveways, backyards or entrances, but is less suitable for larger surveillance areas.
Anyone looking for a camera for large areas or surveillance over long distances should consider an AI-supported camera with image-based detection.
- ALLES-IN-EINEM-VERWALTUNGS- & SPEICHERZENTRALE: Der Reolink Home Hub dient als vielseitige Sicherheitslösung für zentrale Verwaltung, Speicherung und Alarmierung. Er ist hochkompatibel mit all derzeit erhältlichen Reolink-Geräten, einschließlich Akku-WLAN-Kameras, kabelgebundenen WLAN-Kameras, PoE-Kameras und Video-Türklingeln (außer Reolink 4G-Kameras). Sie können bis zu 8 Kameras hinzufügen, um Ihre eigene Sicherheitszentrale aufzubauen.
- OFFLINE-AUFZEICHNUNG & LOKALE SPEICHERUNG: Ihre Aufzeichnungen werden sicher im Hub gespeichert, auch wenn Ihr Kameranetzwerk unterbrochen ist. Der Hub wird mit einer 64GB-SD-Karte geliefert, und mit seinen zwei SD-Kartensteckplätzen unterstützt er erweiterbare Speicherung von bis zu 2*512 GB (1 TB). Machen Sie sich nie wieder Sorgen, dass Ihnen der Speicherplatz für Ihre wichtigen Aufnahmen ausgeht.
- WI-FI 6 FÜR HOCHAUFLÖSENDE LIVE-ANSICHT UND WIEDERGABE: Genießen Sie die reibungslose Live-Ansicht und Wiedergabe in bis zu 4K-Auflösung mit Wi-Fi 6-Technologie. 2,4/5-GHz-Dualband-Wi-Fi und Wi-Fi 6 sorgen für schnellere Ladegeschwindigkeiten, minimale Latenzzeiten und verbesserte Sicherheit und bieten Ihnen das ultimative Fernseherlebnis.
- SICHERHEITSÜBERSICHTEN & ALARMZENTRALE: Durch das Sammeln von Erkennungsaufzeichnungen aller Kameras können Sie mit täglichen, wöchentlichen und monatlichen Übersichten leicht feststellen, was passiert ist, und Ereignisse mit wenigen Klicks lokalisieren und überprüfen. Außerdem können Sie mit dem Sirenenalarm, der ertönt, wenn die Kamera Verdächtige erkennt, schnell auf jedes Bewegungsereignis reagieren.
- HÖCHSTER SCHUTZ DER PRIVATSPHÄRE: Dank der geräteinternen AES128-Verschlüsselung und den exklusiven Verschlüsselungsalgorithmen von Reolink profitieren Sie von einem unvergleichlichen Datenschutz. Selbst wenn das Hub-Gerät gestohlen oder die Aufzeichnungsdateien kompromittiert werden, bleiben Ihre Aufnahmen unzugänglich, selbst nach einem Reset.
Battery life & solar operation – How long does the battery really last?
A highlight of the Argus Eco Ultra is the integrated 21.6 Wh rechargeable battery which, in combination with a solar panel, enables continuous operation. The camera does not require a fixed power connection and can be installed flexibly anywhere.
Battery performance in my test
- With few motion detections: Several weeks runtime
- For frequent events (e.g. in the garden, lots of animals/people): Battery lasts a few days
- With solar panel (in average sunshine): Continuous full charge
I tested the camera in winter conditions – with night-time temperatures as low as -5°C. Despite the cold temperatures, the battery lasted as long as the camera got some sun during the day.
Caution: The charging process can be stopped at extreme sub-zero temperatures, as lithium-ion batteries only charge reliably at temperatures above zero.
Why extreme temperatures are problematic for battery-powered cameras
Battery-powered surveillance cameras are extremely flexible, but have a more sensitive temperature tolerance than wired models. Extreme cold and extreme heat in particular can impair the performance and service life of the battery.
Technical background: Why don’t batteries charge at sub-zero temperatures?
Lithium-ion batteries, such as those installed in the Argus Eco Ultra, have a limited temperature range for the charging process.
Typical operating temperatures for lithium-ion batteries:
- Discharge (operation): -10°C to +55°C
- Charging: 0°C to +45°C
As soon as the battery temperature falls below 0°C, the charging process is interrupted to prevent damage to the lithium-ion cells. When charging below 0°C, so-called lithium plating can occur, in which metallic lithium is deposited on the anode. This can:
- Permanently reduce the capacity of the battery
- Shorten the charging cycles
- In the worst case, lead to battery failure
This means that the solar panel cannot charge the battery if the camera has cooled down considerably, even in sunlight.
Extreme heat can also be problematic
High temperatures are also a factor that reduces battery life. Above 40-45°C ambient temperature, lithium-ion batteries age more quickly. In direct sunlight in summer, the camera housing can heat up considerably, which can put a strain on the battery in the long term.
Solar panel as a useful addition
The Reolink Solar Panel 2 (6W) is an ideal addition to the camera. Thanks to the 4 meter long cable, it can be mounted in an optimal sunny spot while the camera itself remains in the shade.
- One hour of direct sunlight per day can be enough to keep the battery charged.
- Continuous solar operation possible in summer – but temperature-dependent in winter.
- No need for constant manual charging.
Tip: If you use the camera in regions with cold winters, you should mount it in a place protected from the weather and regularly check whether the battery is sufficiently charged. Alternatively, temporary manual charging with a power bank or USB-C power adapter may be necessary.
Conclusion: battery vs. wired cameras in extreme temperatures
Battery-powered cameras such as the Reolink Argus Eco Ultra offer a high degree of flexibility, but are more dependent on temperatures than wired models.
- In mild to warm climates, they are a perfect solution with minimal maintenance requirements.
- In regions with very cold winters, charging problems can occur if temperatures fall permanently below 0°C.
For year-round surveillance without restrictions, it may be useful to supplement the Argus Eco Ultra with a wired PoE Reolink camera, such as the Reolink RLC-811A or RLC-1212A, which is not dependent on battery temperature.
![Reolink [2023 Update-Version] 6W Solarpanel für Akku Überwachungskamera Aussen, USB Schnittstelle, Solar WLAN IP Kamera Outdoor, 360° Einstellbare Halterung, Non-Stop-Solar(4m Kabel), Schwarz](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41kbowMLOyL._SL160_.jpg "Reolink Argus Eco Ultra review: 4K rechargeable surveillance camera without subscription 23")
- 【Einfache Installation】 Die verstellbare Montagehalterung und ein 4 m langes Kabel ermöglichen es Ihnen, das Solarpanel einfach zu positionieren und maximale Sonneneinstrahlung zu gewährleisten
- 【Ununterbrochene Stromversorgung】 Schließen Sie die Reolink Kamera an dieses Solarpanel an, um durch Solarenergie aufgeladen zu werden, um eine kontinuierliche Funktion im Freien zu erhalten. Setzen Sie das Solarpanel unter die Sonne, Ihre Reolink Batteriekamera bleibt Tag und Nacht eingeschaltet
- 【Wetterfest】Dieses Solarpanel für den Außenbereich verfügt über das wetterfeste Design von IP65, um bei rauen Wetterbedingungen zu arbeiten, dieses Panel ist langlebig und kostengünstig genug für die Installation im Freien
- 【Kompatibilität】Dieses Solarpanel ist für die wiederaufladbare Akku-Kamera Reolink Argus 2, Argus Eco, Argus 2E, Argus PT, Argus 3, Argus 3 Pro, Reolink Go Plus und Reolink Go PT Plus, Duo 2, Duo 2 LTE mit solarbetriebener Dauerladung konzipiert
- 【Lieferumfang】1x 6W Reolink Schwarz Solarpanel(inkl. 4 Meter Ladeskabel), andere Zubehörteile zur Montage
Video: Reolink Argus Eco Ultra – 4K UHD – Wireless battery camera – Intelligent recognition in test!
I have recorded the unboxing, installation and testing of the Reolink Argus Eco Ultra in an informative video. The camera impresses with 4K resolution, color night vision, intelligent motion detection and flexible battery operation with an optional solar panel.
You can find more projects relating to surveillance cameras and smart homes in my Youtube playlist Smarthome and in my blog category Smart Home.
If you want to see more of me and my projects, feel free to check out my YouTube channel.
Zuletzt aktualisiert am 5. June 2025 um 13:12 . Ich weise darauf hin, dass sich hier angezeigte Preise inzwischen geändert haben können. Alle Angaben ohne Gewähr. (*) Bei den verwendeten Produktlinks handelt es sich um Affiliate Links. Ich bin nicht der Verkäufer des Produktes. Als Amazon-Partner verdiene ich an qualifizierten Verkäufen. Dein Preis ändert sich jedoch nicht.
![Reolink [2023 Update-Version] 6W Solarpanel für Akku Überwachungskamera Aussen, USB Schnittstelle, Solar WLAN IP Kamera Outdoor, 360° Einstellbare Halterung, Non-Stop-Solar(4m Kabel), Schwarz](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41kbowMLOyL._SL75_.jpg "Reolink Argus Eco Ultra review: 4K rechargeable surveillance camera without subscription 34")
Storage & Home Hub Pro – Where are the recordings stored?
The Argus Eco Ultra offers several storage options so that recordings can be backed up flexibly:
- microSD card up to 512 GB (local storage directly in the camera)
- Reolink Home Hub / Home Hub Pro for centralized storage
- Reolink Cloud (available in selected countries)
Unlike Reolink’s wired PoE cameras, which allow 24/7 continuous recording, the Argus Eco Ultra only stores alarm recordings. Due to the battery limitation, continuous recording is not possible as the battery would otherwise discharge too quickly.
Storage on the Home Hub & Home Hub Pro
In addition to the microSD card, Reolink also offers the Home Hub and the more powerful Home Hub Pro for storing recordings. The Argus Eco Ultra can be connected directly via LAN and WLAN or via the existing network to one of these hubs to enable centralized storage and management.
Comparison: Home Hub vs. Home Hub Pro
| Feature | Home Hub | Home Hub Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum cameras | 8 | 24 |
| Memory included | 64 GB microSD | 2 TB HDD |
| Max. Memory expansion | 2 × 512 GB microSD | Up to 16 TB HDD |
| Network standard | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 6 |
| Encryption | AES-128 | AES-128 |
| Recording | Event-based | Event-based |
| Connectivity | WLAN / Ethernet | WLAN / Ethernet |
The Home Hub is a compact solution for smaller camera setups and already offers a 64 GB microSD card that can be expanded to up to 1 TB (2 × 512 GB). The Home Hub Pro, on the other hand, is designed for larger surveillance networks and offers significantly more storage space, better network performance thanks to Wi-Fi 6 and support for more cameras.
Advantages of central control via the Home Hub
If the Argus Eco Ultra is coupled with a home hub, there are additional advantages:
- Central management of all cameras via a single platform
- Extended storage of event recordings on a larger hard disk or microSD card
- Increased data security through local storage without cloud dependency
- Wi-Fi optimization through Wi-Fi 6 (with the Home Hub Pro) for more stable connections
- Faster playback and management of saved recordings
So if you use multiple Reolink cameras and are looking for an efficient, centralized storage solution, a Home Hub or Home Hub Pro will give you improved security management and more flexibility.
- Zentralisierte Verwaltung für nahtlose Kontrolle: Speicherung und Alarmverwaltung für alle Reolink-Kameras – ob kabelgebunden, kabellos, PoE oder Türklingeln (außer 4G-Geräte) – über die praktische App. Behalten Sie mühelos bis zu 24 Geräte im Blick (max. 12 kabelgebundene Verbindungen).
- Lokale Speicherung ohne Zusatzkosten: Mit LAN-Offline-Speicherung & -Wiedergabe haben Sie Ihre Sicherheit immer im Griff. Unterstützt bis zu 16TB HDD (inkl. 2TB). Gleichzeitig können 12 kabelgebundene mit einem Objektiv oder 24 Akku-Kameras aufnehmen.
- Absolute Privatsphäre & Offline-Aufzeichnung: Mit AES-128-Verschlüsselung und fortschrittlichen Algorithmen sind Ihre Aufnahmen auch offline sicher. Ohne das richtige Passwort bleiben gestohlene oder verlorene Geräte unzugänglich.
- Erkenntnisreiche Berichte, sofortiges Handeln: Durch die Integration mit IP-Kameras, löst Reolink Home Hub Pro (Funktionen wie Homebase und NVR) bei jeder erkannten Bewegung einen Sirenenalarm aus. Verfolgen Sie täglich oder wöchentlich alle Ereignisse über die Reolink App.
- Live-Streaming mit bis zu 8K 16MP: Erleben Sie unglaublich detaillierte Live-Ansichten mit 16MP und intelligente Wiedergabe über mehrere Kameras - alles mit nur einem Fingertipp in der Reolink App.
Smart home integration – Alexa, Google Assistant & Home Assistant
The Argus Eco Ultra can be easily integrated into smart home systems and controlled with various platforms.
- Amazon Alexa: voice control and live image on Echo Show
- Google Assistant: Control and live view on Google Nest Hub
- Home Assistant: Advanced automation and central control
I use the Home Assistant myself, which has its own Reolink integration. This means that the Argus Eco Ultra can be seamlessly integrated into my existing smart home system and controlled automatically.
What are the benefits of smart home integration?
The connection with Home Assistant opens up numerous possibilities that go beyond simple voice control.
- Create scripts and routines
- The camera can be configured so that it is only active during certain periods or switches on automatically when nobody is at home.
- In conjunction with motion sensors or door contacts, the camera can be activated specifically when motion is detected.
- Linking with other smart home devices
- If the camera detects movement, the light in the entrance area can be switched on automatically.
- If the camera repeatedly detects movement within a short period of time, a siren or push notification can be triggered.
- Intelligent control through automation
- The camera only sends notifications when no one is at home to avoid unnecessary alarms.
- In combination with a smart doorbell or other Reolink cameras, a comprehensive security concept can be created.
If you need more than a simple live view, you can use Home Assistant to implement individual and intelligent control of the Argus Eco Ultra.
- Speichertyp: microSDXC (UHS-I) inklusive SD-Adapter
- Speicherkapazität: 512 GB
- Geschwindigkeitsklasse: Cl10, U3, V30
- max. Lese-/Schreibgeschwindigkeit: 200 MB/s / 140 MB/s
Conclusion – For whom is the Reolink Argus Eco Ultra worthwhile?
The Reolink Argus Eco Ultra is a wireless 4K rechargeable security camera that is particularly suitable for users who need a flexible and reliable security solution without the need for cables. It combines high image quality with an efficient PIR sensor for motion detection and is ideal for outdoor use.
Advantages of the Argus Eco Ultra
- No cable laying necessary, as battery operation with optional solar panel
- Good image quality with 4K UHD resolution – even at night thanks to color night vision
- Reliable PIR motion detection that reduces false alarms
- Long battery life, especially in conjunction with the solar panel
- Simple setup and intuitive app control
- Integration into smart home systems such as Alexa, Google Assistant and Home Assistant
- Storage on microSD card, Home Hub or Home Hub Pro possible
Limitations of the camera
- Motion detection is only reliable up to approx. 10 meters, greater distances are not detected
- The battery charge can be impaired at extreme sub-zero temperatures, as lithium-ion batteries can only be charged at 0°C and above
For whom is the camera not worthwhile?
The Argus Eco Ultra is a solid solution for wireless surveillance, but also has some limitations due to its battery operation:
- Users who require 24/7 continuous recording should choose a wired model, as the Argus Eco Ultra only stores event-based recordings.
- If you want to monitor large areas or long distances, you should look at models with PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom) or AI-supported motion detection.
- In regions with extremely cold temperatures, charging problems may occur as the battery is only recharged at temperatures above zero.
Comparison with other 4K UHD battery camera models
The Argus Eco Ultra is a compact alternative to the Argus 4 Pro, which offers a larger field of view. Anyone looking for a PTZ camera with motorized pan and tilt function and auto-tracking should take a look at the Argus PT Ultra or Altas PT Ultra.
| Model | Argus Eco Ultra | Argus 4 Pro | Argus PT Ultra | Altas PT Ultra |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Resolution | 4K UHD (8 MP) | 4K UHD (8 MP) | 4K UHD (8 MP) | 4K UHD (8 MP) |
| Field of vision | 125° | 180° | 110° (fixed) | 110° (fixed) |
| Motion detection | PIR sensor (up to 10 m) | PIR + AI | PIR + AI | PIR + AI |
| Battery operation | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Night vision | Colored night vision (spotlight) | ColorX true full color night vision | Colored night vision (spotlight) | ColorX true full color night vision |
| PTZ (pan/tilt) | No | No | Yes (355° pan, 140° tilt) | Yes (355° pan, 90° tilt) |
| Auto-tracking (live tracking) | No | No | No | Yes |
| Continuous recording | No | No | No | Yes (24/7 possible) |
| WLAN | 2.4 GHz / 5 GHz | 2.4 GHz / 5 GHz | 2.4 GHz / 5 GHz | Wi-Fi 6 (2.4 GHz / 5 GHz) |
| microSD card | up to 512 GB | up to 512 GB | up to 512 GB | up to 512 GB |
Important adjustments & findings:
- The Altas PT Ultra is a battery-only camera and does not support PoE. I had previously assumed this incorrectly.
- The Altas PT Ultra offers ColorX night vision, which enables true full color display in minimal light – without any spotlight LEDs.
- Only the Altas PT Ultra supports continuous recording, while the other cameras only allow event-based recording.
- The Argus PT Ultra does not have auto-tracking, only PTZ control for manual tilting and panning. The Altas PT Ultra, on the other hand, offers auto-tracking so that the camera automatically adapts to moving objects.
- The Altas PT Ultra uses Wi-Fi 6, which offers more stable connections and higher speeds than the other models.
You can find my detailed review of the Reolink Altas PT Ultra here Reolink Altas PT Ultra: The powerful 4K battery security camera in test and my review of the Argus 4 Pro here: Reolink Argus 4 Pro review: The wireless surveillance camera with 4K and ColorX technology
The Argus Eco Ultra remains an excellent choice for anyone looking for a wireless 4K camera with long battery life and reliable motion detection.
However, if you need a motorized camera with PTZ function, you should opt for the Argus PT Ultra or Altas PT Ultra. The Altas PT Ultra is also the only battery-powered Reolink camera with continuous recording and auto-tracking, making it an interesting alternative for more demanding surveillance tasks.
Storage options and central management
The camera can store recordings locally on a microSD card (up to 512 GB) or be connected to a Reolink Home Hub / Home Hub Pro. The Home Hub Pro offers a much larger storage capacity (up to 16 TB) and enables the central management of multiple cameras.
More information about the storage solutions from Reolink:
- Argus Eco Ultra: Learn more
- Reolink Home Hub: Learn more
- Reolink Home Hub Pro: Learn more
Purchase recommendation & price-performance ratio
The Argus Eco Ultra offers very good value for money, especially for users looking for a wireless 4K camera with a flexible power supply.
- If you need a compact, wireless camera without a home hub, the Argus Eco Ultra is a good choice.
- If you want to monitor larger areas or use auto-tracking, you should take a look at the Argus PT Ultra or Altas PT Ultra.
- Anyone who needs centralized storage and management for multiple cameras can benefit from the combination with the Home Hub or Home Hub Pro.
The Argus Eco Ultra impresses with its high flexibility, good image quality and easy handling. The ability to operate the camera wirelessly with a solar panel in particular makes it an interesting choice for many areas of application.
Reolink regularly offers special deals on cameras and accessories. Current promotions can be found here: Reolink Promo Link
Further details and technical specifications are available directly from Reolink:
- More about the Reolink Argus Eco Ultra
- More about the Reolink Home Hub
- More about the Reolink Home Hub PRO
Alternatively, visit the Amazon Reolink Store: Reolink Store – Wireless Security System
Summary: Reolink Argus Eco Ultra in the test
The Reolink Argus Eco Ultra is a wireless 4K rechargeable security camera that is ideal for indoor and outdoor use. It combines high-resolution image quality, smart motion detection and flexible power supply with battery or solar operation.
Key features of the Argus Eco Ultra
- 4K UHD resolution (8 MP) for detailed recordings
- Battery operation & solar operation for flexible installation without cables
- PIR motion detection for reliable detection of people, vehicles and animals
- Color night vision with spotlight LEDs and alternative black and white night vision with IR LEDs
- Weatherproof to IP66 standard, ideal for outdoor use
- Integration with Alexa, Google Assistant & Home Assistant
Test results: Image quality & motion detection
The 4K image quality impresses with sharp details and clear night shots. The black and white night vision with IR LEDs in particular offers uniform illumination without delay. The PIR sensor reduces false alarms, but has a limited range of approx. 10 meters.
Storage & smart home integration
The camera stores recordings on a microSD card (up to 512 GB) or in combination with the Reolink Home Hub / Home Hub Pro. The smart home integration enables automatic routines, such as light control when motion is detected or push notifications.
Conclusion: For whom is the Argus Eco Ultra worthwhile?
With the Argus Eco Ultra, Reolink offers an ideal solution for anyone looking for a wireless, flexible surveillance camera with high-quality images and smart motion detection.
Advantages:
- Simple installation without cables
- Clear 4K images & reliable night vision
- Long battery life, especially with solar panel
Restrictions:
- Motion detection only up to 10 meters
- Battery cannot charge at extreme sub-zero temperatures
More information & current offers:
👉 Reolink Argus Eco Ultra
👉 Reolink Promo Link
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- Mehrere Speicheroptionen Unterstützt microSD-Karte bis zu 512GB (nicht enthalten) sowie Home Hub/Home Hub Pro (bis zu 16TB, nicht enthalten). In Kombination mit dem Hub ist zudem RTSP/NAS möglich. All das ohne monatliche Gebühren und Sie haben volle Kontrolle über Ihre Daten.
FAQ about the Reolink Argus Eco Ultra
1. what makes the Reolink Argus Eco Ultra special?
The Argus Eco Ultra is a wireless 4K rechargeable surveillance camera with smart motion detection, color night vision and flexible storage options, ideal for outdoor use.
2. how good is the image quality of the camera?
The camera offers 4K UHD resolution (3840 × 2160 pixels) with razor-sharp images during the day and two night vision modes – black and white infrared and color night vision using LED spotlights.
3. which motion detection system does the Argus Eco Ultra use?
The camera uses a PIR sensor that detects heat sources. This minimizes false alarms caused by moving branches or light reflections, while reliably detecting people, animals and vehicles.
4. how long does the Argus Eco Ultra battery last?
The battery life depends on usage. With a few movements, the battery lasts for several weeks, with many events only a few days. In combination with a solar panel, continuous operation can be guaranteed.
5. can the camera be operated at sub-zero temperatures?
Yes, but the battery only charges at temperatures above 0°C. In winter, charging pauses can therefore occur if the camera cools down considerably.
6. what storage options are available?
The camera stores recordings on a microSD card (up to 512 GB) or a Reolink Home Hub / Home Hub Pro, which supports up to 16 TB of storage.
7. is 24/7 continuous recording possible?
No, the Argus Eco Ultra only records motion-based events, as continuous recording would quickly drain the battery.
8. how can the Argus Eco Ultra be integrated into the smart home?
The camera is compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and Home Assistant, enabling live views by voice command or smart automation.
9. what are the limitations of the camera?
Motion detection is limited to around 10 meters and the battery cannot be charged in sub-zero temperatures. In addition, a wired camera is better suited for continuous recording.
10 Who is the Reolink Argus Eco Ultra ideal for?
The camera is suitable for users looking for a wireless surveillance solution with high image quality and smart motion detection – perfect for entrances, gardens and remote areas without a power supply.
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- Mehrere Alarme & Aufzeichnungsoptionen: Spotlights und Sirene werden durch Bewegung ausgelöst, um Eindringlinge abzuschrecken. Da erhalten Sie sofort Alarm-Email oder Push-Nachricht. Sie können Ereignisse auf einer microSD-Karte (separat erhältlich) oder in der Reolink Cloud(optional) aufzeichnen und mit smarten Filtern schnell wiedergeben.
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