5 Best Camera for ZoneMinder Worth Buying in 2023

If you’re looking for cameras that are compatible and fully functional with the video security software ZoneMinder, you’re not alone!

Remember, this CCTV management solution has some special requirements for devices to integrate properly. For the most part, it only supports cameras that are ONVIF compliant. And because of that, it’s a little hard to find the best camera for Zoneminder.

But fret not since today, we’re about to walk you through the top 5 ZoneMinder compatible cameras that are worth investing in! Whether it’s your home or an industrial area, be sure to find the ideal camera for monitoring your home or workplace!

Quick round-up table with our top 5 Zoneminder Cameras:

To read about our product selection procedure, visit the “About” page.

5 Best ZoneMinder Cameras (Reviews)

 

Our list will have different types of products to meet a wide range of usage and applications. We carefully picked high-quality cameras that are useful both indoors and outdoors.

Whether you’re concerned about night vision, media resolution, or connectivity features, we bet you’ll come to the end of your search today!!!

Also read: Best Camera for Blue Iris Reviews

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1. Amcrest ProHD Pan/Tilt Security Wireless IP Camera

This is our best IP camera for Zoneminder. At first glance, Amcrest ProHD 1920TVL makes it extremely easy to zoom, pan, and tilt.

Thanks to the motorized 90 deg tilt and 360 deg pan functionality. It’ll enable you to see what is going on in your yard or house with ease.

At the same time, this Zoneminder PTZ camera delivers good color quality and High Definition footage recordings. That’s because it’s fitted with the Ambarella S2Lm chipset and CMOS image sensor. Moreover, it will display the entire scene onto your phone or computer at a full resolution of 1920 X 1080p at 30fps.

That way, you don’t have to lean in close to your device or strain your eyes while monitoring your home’s security system.

Interestingly, this device will record crystal clear images when it gets dark since it has 12 IR LEDs. These LEDs transmit infrared rays in a frequency invisible to our eyes. Nonetheless, they provide an outstanding night vision range of up to 32 ft.

Another stand-out feature of this Zoneminder IP camera is that it can detect motion. It’ll send alerts to your phone instantly on detecting movement. The motion event will be recorded and stored in the SD card, cloud services, or the Amcrest View Pro app.

When it comes to audio capability, it supports 2-way talk. This indicates that the camera has an inbuilt microphone and speaker. Besides, it’s fitted with noise-canceling technology, making it easy to communicate with anyone on the other side of the device.

Regarding compatibility, this device supports various 3rd party video management software including ZoneMinder. More importantly, it’s one of the few Zoneminder cameras that work with Alexa devices. Lastly, this device features Wi-Fi connectivity, making it easy to set up in your security system.

Highlighted Features:

• 90 deg viewing angle
• Cloud video storage & local storage
• Motion recording and continuous live recording
• Secure SSL and AES connections
• Motion detection and smart alerts
• Facial recognition & 2-way audio
• Compatible with Amazon Alexa
• HD quality tilt & pan
• Simple Wi-Fi setup

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2. Amcrest UltraHD Best PoE Camera for Zoneminder

The IP5M-T1179EW-28MM camera model is another great device that’s compatible with Zoneminder. Besides, you can use it with other 3rd party software and recorders, since it supports ONVIF as well as RTSP protocols.

That aside, the Amcrest ProHD Turret has a 2.8mm lens and 5MP resolution. As a result, it captures crisp videos during the day, allowing you to view clear details on the footage.

However, this doesn’t mean that it will not record clear footage at nighttime. Instead, the device has a night vision feature that enables it to work in low light conditions as well. For instance, it’s fitted with IR lights that illuminate the surroundings at night.

To be precise, this allows it to record footage at night with a range of up to 98 ft. Unlike the Amcrest camera we reviewed earlier, this model is intended for outdoor installation. For that reason, it has a unique construction, helping it withstand harsh weather conditions.

As an example, it has a metal body construction with an IP67 waterproof rating. For that, you can rest assured that its internal components including the IMX274 image sensor are safe from rain and other harsh elements.

As a bonus, this camera is equipped with an inbuilt microphone. Therefore, you can use this device with ZoneMinder to record audio or trigger alerts. As a drawback, the device lacks an inbuilt speaker, meaning it will only support one-way audio.

Another thing worth mentioning about this camera is that it doesn’t have advanced motion detection. Other than that, it’s easy to use and install, since you can either power it on PoE or a power supply.

Highlighted Features:

• Inbuilt microphone
• IP67 waterproof rating
• Powerful 98ft IR night vision range
• Supports RTSP and ONVIF protocols
• Up to 256GB MicroSD card slot
• 103 deg viewing angle

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3. SV3C 3MP Outdoor PoE IP Security Surveillance Camera

Like Amcrest, SV3C is a relatively popular manufacturer of surveillance systems and security cameras. They produce various types of devices including PTZ, WiFi, and PoE cameras. In this case, we’ll be reviewing their series A model, which we consider one of the best PoE cameras for using with the Zoneminder application.

To start, this device is available in a Bullet IP form. Yet it records security footage in impressive full HD 3MP (2560 x 1440p) resolution. In other words, it promotes a high footage recording quality, both at day and nighttime.

Talking of nighttime recording, this PoE camera has an incredible night vision range. Thanks to the 6 inbuilt IR LEDs, giving it a long night vision distance of around 65 to 100ft. Besides, it’s fitted with a 4mm fixed lens, which allows you to stream night footage at high fps without freezing. In addition, this security camera has a viewing angle of about 70 to 90 deg.

Moving on to construction, this device features an aluminum sealed IP66 waterproof rated casing. For that, it can resist water damage and withstand extreme temperatures. On top of that, it comes with a smart motion detection alarm.

Therefore, it will send alerts through your phone anytime it detects movement.

When it comes to compatibility, this camera works with most smart devices you can think of. For instance, it supports Chrome, Windows, IE, iPhone as well as Android phones. On the same note, it’s compatible with ONVIF and works with the most popular NVR brands out there including Amcrest and Hikvision.

More importantly, it supports popular 3rd part video surveillance software like Zoneminder and Blue iris. All things considered, this is a great option for anyone looking to capture crisp clear surveillance footage.

Highlighted Features:

• 3mp video resolution
• Smart motion detection
• 65 to 100ft. Night vision range
• 6 bigger Infrared LEDs
• 265 video compression
• 4mm fixed lens

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4. SV3C 5mp Dome PoE Surveillance Camera

Dome surveillance cameras are also a great option for installing in different places around the house. For instance, you can install them in the baby’s rooms, where they’ll act as decoration items as well. Alternatively, you can use them as hidden cameras in trains, buses, and garages.

That said, if you want the Zoneminder best outdoor camera, this unit from SV3C is such an incredible option. Besides, it’s a highly valued device that comes with several features to provide reliable surveillance. Here are some of those features!

First, this camera has a full resolution of 2592 X 1944P (5MP). For that, it records high-quality videos efficiently and supports seamless video streaming.

More notably, the device features H.264 video compression to ensure maximum storage. In addition, it’s equipped with other features like snapshots, emails, and push notifications.

At the same time, it can capture clear shots in the dark as well. Thanks to its longer array of InfraRed lights which give a night vision range of around 10 to 20m.

In terms of construction, this unit comes with a transparent case that’s layered over the body. On top of that, its body features a vandal-proof strong-build aluminum casing. As a result, it has an IP66 waterproof rating and can withstand temperatures ranging from -30 to 50 deg C.

Overall, the SV3C is an affordable and reliable Zoneminder camera. It’s compatible with other 3rd party video surveillance software like Ispy and Blue Iris. It provides user-friendly access to the surveillance system while allowing you to record 4-8 channels continuously.

Highlighted Features:

• Easy to install
• 87 deg viewing angle
• Superior night vision range (20m)
• Compatible with most 3rd party surveillance software
• Weatherproof & vandal proof construction
• Compatible with ONVIF
• Motion detection alarm
• 265 video recording

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5. Reolink Outdoor Home Security Surveillance Cameras

Despite being the only product from Reolink on our list, RLC-520 is another great item worth investing in! Reolink is a reputable brand, known for producing high-quality, but affordable cameras. Well, their RLC-520 model isn’t an exception!

Even better, the package comes with 2 Poe cameras, making it one of the most budget-friendly options on our reviews. However, these outdoor cameras offer many benefits apart from being affordable.

One of these benefits is that the devices have an advanced form of motion detection. For that, they can easily identify vehicles and people with movements. Consequently, you’ll get alerts on your PC or phone when a car or person is loitering around your property.

When it comes to video recording, these cameras capture crystal clear footage with finer details. Thanks to the 2560 X 1920p resolutions with around 5MP. Better still, they’re equipped with inbuilt microphones that pick up ambient sound.

On top of that, these Zoneminder compatible cameras have 18 pieces of IR LEDs each and 3D-DNR technology. This will ensure that they capture clear footage even in the dark. Getting back to footage recording, these devices support various options.

More notably, they allow recording 24/7 (continuous recording) or when motion is detected (motion recording). Even better, they can record security footage during the scheduled time, helping you save storage space.

Talking of storage space, these PoE cameras allow multiple storage options as well. For instance, you can save the recordings in the FTP server, MicroSD card, or Reolink NVR.

To sum things up, RLC-520 is the best turret-style Poe camera for Zoneminder. It ensures great color reproduction during the day and captures excellent night videos as well.

Highlighted Features:

• IR night vision
• Motion detection
• 5 MP CMOS Image sensor
• Plug and play PoE installation
• Supports up to 128GB MicroSD card
• Compatible with smart home
• IP66 waterproof rating
• Instant motion alerts

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Things to Consider before Buying a Camera That’ll Work with ZoneMinder

Finding a Zoneminder camera isn’t that simple for everyone. Especially if you buy the first product that you come across in the market. Instead, it’s good to pay close attention to certain details and features before you make your final decision.

Some of these factors are;

Video Quality

The image capturing and video recording or streaming quality of a Zoneminder camera depends on its resolution. In that regard, low-resolution devices deliver poor-quality images and videos. This makes it hard to distinguish details like license plates or faces.

On the contrary, high-resolution cameras have high-quality video output, allowing you to see images. So, while choosing an IP camera, avoid compromising your surveillance system with a low-resolution device.

Night Vision

A security camera should also include the night vision feature, which is another important aspect of a surveillance system. This will allow you to monitor your property, even in the dark. In essence, look for a camera that’s equipped with IR LEDs.

On the same note, these LEDs should at least have an auto InfraRed filter to avoid false color in the daytime. Still, on night vision, check the vision range in the dark. More importantly, make sure you choose a device that at least covers your property’s perimeter.

Installation

Look for something that has a much-simplified installation and setup process. Doing so will help you save installation costs and time. Interestingly, this is one of the major benefits you’ll get from PoE cameras.

Such devices only need one Ethernet cable for video transmission and power supply purposes. Check if the product comes with other accessories needed for the installation process like screws and network cables. If you’re looking for a wireless security camera, make sure its installation process is easy as well.

Motion Alerts

Lastly, always remember to check the motion detection alerts option before you buy a Zoneminder camera. That way, you’ll instantly receive push notifications on your phone or PC, when the camera detects movement.

Besides, this will eliminate the need of staring at the monitor 24/7. Instead, you only need to check your surveillance system whenever you receive motion detection alerts on your phone.

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ZoneMinder Hardware Compatibility Requirements 

The hardware compatibility requirements for Zoneminder will depend on what you intend to do with this video surveillance software. Specifically, you’ve to consider the camera required, resolution, recording option as well as footage storage.

Now, let’s look at these requirements one by one;

1. Camera Requirements

As mentioned earlier, Zoneminder is compatible with various types of security cameras. It supports IP and analog cameras (video capture devices & USB webcams). But like the products on our reviews, we’ll focus on IP or, ONVIF cameras to be precise.

That said, anything that meets the following requirements will be compatible with Zoneminder;

• ONVIF compliant
• Adjustable parameters: resolution, frame rate, contrast
• Sufficient frame rate (fps) for your needs- at least 10fps
• The ideal resolution for your needs- minimum 720p
• IR LEDs/ Night vision for low-light environments
• Weather-resistant for outdoor usage

2. Storage Requirements

Video storage capacity for Zoneminder varies depending on several factors. For instance, it can be determined by; desired recording time, frame rate (image per second) from all cameras, and image size. More notably, you have to consider the recording option you want to use with Zoneminder.

In that regard, full record mode (24/7 recording) requires substantial storage for any considerable history duration. Fortunately, Zoneminder offers the ‘Modect’ mode, where footage can only be stored after and before motion is detected.

This reduces the storage requirements significantly.

Nonetheless, because of the uncertainty of events, Zoneminder storage requirements are unpredictable. For that reason, it’s good to use an external storage device with a capacity of at least ITB. Alternatively, you can calculate how many hours of continuous recording you want.

Moreover, consider reducing the frame rate and color/ image resolution

3. CPU Requirements

Zoneminder is a CPU-intensive software, mainly because of video/ image encoding and decoding. Besides, this software uses jpeg-turbo for image encoding/ decoding instead of standard jpeg. As a result, it has increased performance by around 2 times than standard jpeg.

However, this performance improvement will depend on the CPU compatibility with AVX2, MMX, and SSE2 instructions. That said, the ideal CPU for Zoneminder should meet the following requirements;

• Support AVX2, MMX, and SSE2 instructions
• Minimum J1900 CPU performance
• At least a quad-core processor

Memory Requirements

Finally, memory consumption will depend on image buffer size, the number of cameras, color bits per pixel as well as image pixels. In general, Zoneminder should be installed in a system with a minimum memory capacity of 5.3 GB. This figure rounds up to 8GB of memory.

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Conclusion 

There are several decent Zoneminder compatible security cameras in the market. But not every device you come across can be considered as the best camera for Zoneminder. Thankfully, the wide range of surveillance cameras we’ve included above will help you make the right decision for your security system.

So, if you’re not sure about a specific product, feel free to check out the best options on our list. At the same time, check out the buying guide as it will help you find the perfect device to meet the needs of your surveillance system.

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FAQs

1. What is ZoneMinder for the security system?

In recent years, Zoneminder has become a very popular option among home and business owners. It is a free, easy-to-use, open-source video security software.

Think of it as an integrated set of applications that offer a complete security surveillance solution for industrial usage and home security. For that, you can use it to analyze, monitor, record, and capture the security footage of a certain area.

2. Is ONVIF the same as RTSP?

ONVIF- compliant devices allow multiple streams at a go, while RTSP-complaint devices support only one stream. SO, RTSP and ONVIF are 2 different protocols.

3. How do I view recorded videos on ZoneMinder?

Find the security camera you want to check and click on its video history. Here, you can select all footage, last hours, month, day, or week. Now, click show timeline, which is at the top right of your window. Lastly, select the recorded videos you want to review.

4. How many cameras can Zoneminder handle?

Unlike some video surveillance software, Zoneminder doesn’t have a fixed limit to the number of cameras it supports. For that, you can develop your zoneminder security system to impressive scales.