Reolink RLC-523WA Review

The Reolink RLC-523WA is an indoor/outdoor security camera with 4K sensors and pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) capabilities. Just like the Reolink 823A, it can shoot in high definition and has color night vision. These features allow it to monitor large areas and capture hard-to-see details. 

But how does the RLC-523WA work? Most importantly, does it live up to the claims? Our Reolink RLC-523WA review will answer these questions and others to help you make the right choice. Let’s get into it. 

Pros

• 360° pan and 90° tilt with 5x optical zoom
• Supports 24/7 and scheduled recording
• Excellent image quality
• Color night vision
• Person and vehicle detection
• No subscription required
• Plug-in design
• Weatherproof & waterproof
• Compatible with Google Assistant

Cons

• Doesn’t support cloud storage
• A little bit challenging to install

Scoring

Reolink Design

This PTZ camera has a similar design to the Reolink 823A, featuring a weatherproof body, four infrared LEDs, and three spotlights. The aluminum body is shaped like a dome and has a matte finish. 

Both the RLC-523WA and 823A measure 7.94″ x 6.71″ x 5.35″, so they are compact enough for indoor use. Also, both models have a glossy back component underneath the dome-shaped body. Here you will find the following:

• 1 daylight sensor
• 4 IR LEDs
• 3 spotlights
• Motorized varifocal lenses with 5X optical zoom

The body of the camera includes a mount with four pin holes. This is where you’ll insert the screws to install your camera on the wall. Note that it cannot be used in a free-standing position. 

If you prefer a free-standing camera, check out the Reolink Argus 2 or the Ring Stick Up Cam. 

Our advice is to use some serious heavy-duty screws when installing the Reolink RLC-523WA. The camera is quite heavy, so you want to make sure it stays in place. 

What’s on the Back of the Camera?

As you can see below (image), the back of the camera has three slots: one for the micro SD card, one for the network cable, and one for the power cable, plus a reset button. If you take a closer look, you’ll also see a built-in microphone and speaker.

Reolink provides a waterproof lid to protect the network or power cable from external damage, but you may need additional lids.

Like the 823A, the RLC-523WA doesn’t require batteries. Instead, you’ll need either AC power or a PoE (Power over Ethernet) router. 

The Reolink 823A is a little bit more difficult to install because it only works with PoE devices. But if you opt for the RLC-523WA, you can simply plug it into a wall outlet. 

How does the Reolink RLC-523WA work?

This indoor/outdoor security camera makes it easy to keep an eye on your home, even when you’re miles away. It features a built-in siren, advanced human and vehicle detection, motion spotlight, and 5MP resolution. Thanks to these capabilities, it allows you to see the fine details that other cameras might miss. 

Here’s what happens when the Reolink RLC-523A detects activity:

1. The camera starts recording.
2. You receive an email notification or push alert via the Reolink app (depending on which option you select). 
3. You can view a live feed or browse previous recordings. 
4. If the audio siren is on, it will sound repeatedly to deter intruders.

The camera works perfectly fine even when it’s raining or snowing due to its weatherproof housing. It can operate both indoors and outdoors at a temperature between 14° and 131° Fahrenheit and 20% to 80% humidity. 

Features

Some of the top features of the Reolink RLC-523WA include:

• Person and vehicle detection: The RLC-523WA security camera uses advanced algorithms to tell people and cars from other objects. Moreover, it enables users to filter videos by motion events, such as human activities or cars leaving the driveway. 
• Accurate alerts: Reolink’s motion detection capabilities reduce the likelihood of false alarms. Users can also choose to receive real-time alerts by email or via the Reolink app. 
• High-definition video surveillance: This PTZ 5MP camera can shoot videos at a maximum resolution of 2560 x 1920. The spotlights and infrared LEDs ensure color night vision, while the motorized varifocal lens allows you to zoom in or out as needed. 
• Large viewing area: The Reolink-523WA allows a 90° vertical tilt motion and a 360° horizontal pan motion, as well as 5X optical zoom. Thanks to these features, it captures large areas from every angle. 
• Auto tracking: This indoor/outdoor camera will automatically track people walking across its view. 
• Time-lapse capabilities: The RLC-523WA can capture hour-long or day-long events, allowing users to create time-lapse videos. 
• 2-Way audio: Like other Reolink cameras, the RLC-523WA lets you hear what’s going on outside of your home and talk back. For example, you may use the built-in microphone to tell the pizza delivery guy to use a different entrance. 
• Custom detection zones: Users can set up custom motion zones around their homes or offices and then adjust the motion sensitivity level for each area.

The Reolink App

The Reolink app gives you full control over the RLC-523WA security camera. Simply download it to your smartphone, laptop, or desktop PC and then use it to schedule recordings, set up motion zones, or browse saved videos.

If you have two or more Reolink cameras, you can manage them all via the app. Users can also play back videos, set up 24/7 recording, and share their clips on social media. 

Other features include:

• View up to 16 channels simultaneously
• Set up motion-triggered recordings
• Capture images and videos from live view channels
• Talk back to the camera via the app
• Control the camera’s PTZ capabilities
• Share videos with your family and friends

The app is compatible with both Android and iOS devices. It also works on Windows and Mac computers. All you need to do is to install it and register your device. 

What’s in the box?

This indoor/outdoor security camera comes with the following parts and accessories:

In the box, you’ll get:

• Reolink RLC-523WA camera
• Power adapter
• Network cable (1 meter)
• Power extension cable (4.5 meters)
• Pack of screws
• Mounting template
• Surveillance sticker
• Quick start guide

The videos can be saved on a micro SD card. If you don’t have one, you can order it directly from Reolink along with your new security camera. 

Setup & Usability

Both the Reolink 823A and RLC-523WA are quite heavy and can be challenging to install. The RLC 523WA, however, doesn’t require Ethernet, which makes things a little bit easier. 

For either model, you’ll need a drill and some heavy-duty screws (other than those included with the camera). Install the camera angularly 7 to 10 feet above the ground and then take these steps to set it up:

1. Download the Reolink app to your smartphone or computer
2. Insert a micro SD card of up to 256GB in the designated slot. 
3. Plug the power cable into the designated port on your camera. 
4. Plug the other end into an electrical outlet. 
5. Connect the camera to the Reolink app and then to Google Assistant.

The setup is quite simple. After connecting your camera to the app, follow the instructions provided to get it up and running. 

Currently, users cannot connect the RLC-523WA to Amazon Alexa, but this feature should be available soon. 

How easy is it to use?

The RLC-523WA takes minutes to set up and can be controlled via the Reolink app. Since it’s AC-powered, it can run continuously and supports 24/7 recording. 

Another advantage is that you don’t need a subscription. Other security cameras, such as the Reolink Argus 2E, include up to three different subscription plans that give you access to additional features, such as cloud storage.

That’s not the case with the RLC-523WA—you simply plug it in and then connect to the app.

Where are the videos stored?

This PTZ camera doesn’t support cloud storage, but you may use a 256GB micro SD card to save your videos and images. That’s enough for over 97 hours of footage. 

Alternatively, you can save the videos on an FTP server or connect the camera to a network video recorder (NVR). 

Reolink RLC-523WA Specifications

Model	Reolink RLC-523WA
Type	Indoor / Outdoor
Size	7.94″ x 6.71″ x 5.35″
Weight	3.96 pounds
Video Quality	2560 x 1920 (5MP), 20 frames per second
Night Mode	Full color or grayscale, 60 Meters (190ft)
Field of View	Horizontal: 27°-96°; Vertical: 21°-69°; Pan: 360°/ Tilt: 90°/ 5x optical zoom
Power	Plug-in & Power over Ethernet (PoE)
Operating Frequency	2.4GHz/5GHz
Motion Detection	Yes
Person / Vehicle Detection	Yes
2-Way Audio	Yes
Local Storage	Yes; SD card compatible
Cloud Storage	No
Siren	Yes
Live Streaming	Yes
Operating Temperature	14°F to 131°F
Waterproof	Yes
Returns	Varies by retailer
Warranty	2-year limited warranty
Price	Check Price

Should You Buy the Reolink RLC-523WA?

I would recommend the Reolink RLC-523WA if you’re looking for the following in a security camera:

• Continuous power: While it may be easier to install a battery-powered security camera, plug-in cameras can run continuously, day and night. With the RLC-523WA, you don’t have to worry about charging or replacing the batteries. This means you can leave your home, business premises, or vacation property for months at a time and have peace of mind knowing that your camera is on. 
• No subscription fee: The Reolink RLC-523WA can be a good choice for those who don’t like being tied to a subscription plan. Your only job is to install the camera and check your phone for updates. 
• Excellent image quality: If you want a security camera that delivers vivid images, you can’t go wrong with the RLC-523WA. The images are sharp, and you can clearly see faces and other small details even at night. 
• Multiple storage options: This PTZ camera doesn’t include cloud storage, but it offers three options for storing videos and images. You may use a micro SD card, an FTP server, or the Reolink NVR.

Click here to learn more or buy the Reolink RLC-523WA security camera.