Security & Smart Home
Tests & comparisons of surveillance cameras, smart security, alarm systems and smart technology for your home.
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The best Reolink 4k PTZ surveillance cameras in comparison: 823S2 vs 823S1 vs TrackMix vs TrackFlex in test
For me, Reolink is one of the most exciting manufacturers of modern 4K PTZ surveillance cameras for indoor and outdoor use. In this Reolink surveillance camera comparison, I analyze several high-performance models – from classic PTZ cameras with optical zoom to dual-lens and floodlight variants for outdoor use. The focus is on image quality, motion detection, night vision, PoE vs. WLAN, local storage without a subscription and the question of which camera is really suitable for large properties, driveways or security-relevant areas. I will show you my practical experience with the RLC-823S2, RLC-823S1, TrackMix and TrackFlex and categorize the models technically and strategically. The aim of this article is to…
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Expand Reolink NVR storage space – Installing and configuring hard disks correctly
In this article, I will give a structured overview of the Reolink NVR models – maximum hard disk size and storage capacity and show what really matters when choosing the right HDD. A Reolink NVR is the central element of a camera surveillance system – and the storage strategy determines how long recordings remain available and how stable the system runs. I go into detail about the differences between RLN36, RLN16-410, RLN8-410 and RLN12W, explain the maximum hard disk size per model, show the correct choice of surveillance HDD and document the complete installation including formatting and storage management. I also explain how an NVR works with multiple HDDs and…
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Install surveillance cameras yourself – IP camera network explained simply
IP cameras are now an integral part of modern video surveillance in the home network. In this article, I will show you how to set up an IP camera system yourself, what role the router, switch, PoE, WLAN and NVR play and how different camera types can be combined in a shared network. I explain the technical basics, address typical practical questions and use real examples to show how a stable, secure and scalable IP surveillance solution can be implemented step by step – from planning and installation to storing the video recordings. At a glance – what you can expect in this blog post The basics of IP…
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Automatic litter box test: Self-cleaning litter box without odor – Mova LR10
Self-cleaning litter boxes promise less effort, better hygiene and much more pleasant use in everyday life. Many cat owners are increasingly focusing on automatic solutions, especially if they have several cats or little time. With the MOVA MeowgicPod LR10 Prime, I tested a new litter tray in everyday use for several weeks – including set-up, app setup, cleaning cycles and use by two cats. This article is about my experience with a self-cleaning litter box that does many things differently to conventional litter boxes.
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MOVA Z60 Ultra Roller Complete test: Fully automatic cleaning with AI and hot water
The MOVA Z60 Ultra Roller Complete is one of the most modern vacuum and mopping robots in its class. With 28,000 Pa suction power, a rotating mopping roller, intelligent obstacle detection and a self-cleaning base station, MOVA sets new standards in terms of convenience and efficiency. In my test, I used the Z60 Ultra Complete for several weeks in everyday use and analyzed how reliably it cleans floors, handles carpets and what advantages the automatic hot water cleaning actually brings.
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Network wireless smoke detectors across several floors: How X-Sense Link+ protects your whole house!
X-Sense wireless smoke detectors in the test: In my multi-storey old building with thick walls, it was clear that normal smoke alarms were not enough. I installed the X-Sense Link Plus system with wirelessly networked smoke detectors and CO detectors and put it through its paces. In this article, I show how smoke detectors with wireless technology perform in practice, how the setup works with and without an app and which variant is suitable for which application scenario. You’ll also find information on mandatory smoke alarms in Germany, the technology behind the devices and my detailed practical test with video.
