Blink Outdoor 4 Review: Affordable Security with a Catch?
In today’s market of smart home security, finding a reliable and affordable system can be a challenge. Today, we’re reviewing the Blink Outdoor 4 – Wireless smart security camera, two-year battery life, 1080p HD day and infrared night live view, two-way talk. Sync Module Core included – 5 camera system, a promising option for homeowners seeking comprehensive coverage without breaking the bank. Let’s dive into the features, performance, and overall value this system offers.
Detailed Review
The Blink Outdoor 4 system aims to provide peace of mind with its wireless design and long battery life. The standout feature is undoubtedly the advertised two-year battery life, powered by the included AA Energizer lithium batteries. This significantly reduces the hassle of frequent battery changes, a common pain point with many wireless security cameras.
The 1080p HD resolution provides clear daytime video, and the infrared night vision is adequate for monitoring your property after dark. The two-way talk feature allows you to communicate with visitors or deter potential intruders directly from the Blink app, adding an extra layer of security.
Motion detection is a crucial aspect of any security camera system, and the Blink Outdoor 4 boasts enhanced motion detection with dual-zone capabilities. This allows for more precise detection and reduces false alarms. However, the person detection feature requires a Blink Subscription Plan, which adds an ongoing cost to the system.
One of the main drawbacks is the included Sync Module Core. While it’s essential for connecting the cameras to your Wi-Fi network, it doesn’t offer local storage. This means you’re reliant on cloud storage, which comes with a free 30-day trial of a Blink Subscription Plan. After the trial, you’ll need to pay for a subscription to store and share your footage. Alternatively, you can purchase a Sync Module XR or Sync Module 2 separately to enable local storage with a MicroSD card or USB flash drive, respectively. This extra cost is a significant factor to consider.
The system integrates seamlessly with Alexa, allowing you to control the cameras with voice commands. You can view live feeds, arm and disarm the system, and more using your Alexa-enabled devices.
Overall, the Blink Outdoor 4 offers a good balance of features and affordability. However, the lack of local storage with the included Sync Module Core and the subscription requirement for person detection are important considerations.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Two-year battery life | No local storage with included Sync Module Core |
| 1080p HD video and infrared night vision | Person detection requires a paid subscription |
| Two-way audio | Reliance on cloud storage (unless additional hardware is purchased) |
| Enhanced motion detection | |
| Works with Alexa | |
| Relatively affordable |
Excellent Alternatives
- Arlo Pro 4: Offers excellent video quality and features, but comes at a higher price point.
- Ring Stick Up Cam Battery: Integrates well with the Ring ecosystem and provides various storage options.
- Google Nest Cam (battery): Known for its intelligent alerts and seamless integration with the Google Home ecosystem.
Final Verdict
The Blink Outdoor 4 system is a decent entry-level security solution for those seeking wireless convenience and long battery life. While the lack of local storage with the included Sync Module Core and the subscription requirement for person detection are drawbacks, the overall affordability and ease of use make it a worthwhile option, especially for users already invested in the Alexa ecosystem. If you prioritize local storage or advanced features like person detection without a subscription, consider exploring the alternatives mentioned above.
Our Rating
★★★★☆ 4/5
