Synology has some of the best surveillance systems for protecting your business, home, or office. However, to use their security services, you’ll need hard drives, NAS enclosures, and IP cameras. An IP camera creates many possibilities when you’re setting up a surveillance system. For instance, you can connect it over Wi-Fi or Ethernet with Internet Protocol.
Hence allowing you to monitor your business or home remotely in real-time.
Although there are many IP cameras available, not all of them are compatible with the Synology NAS! So, how do you choose the best Camera for Synology NAS surveillance system?
Well, in this guide, we’ve actually explored the top 5 IP cameras that support features offered by Synology. We’ve discovered their pros and cons, as well as the unique features that make them stand out! That said, let’s get started!
Quick round-up table with our top 5 picks:
| Image | Name | Rating | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
Amcrest 4K Outdoor Security IP PoE Camera |
5 out of 5 |
Check On Amazon | |
 |
Amcrest 5MP UltraHD IP Camera with Mic |
5 out of 5 |
Check On Amazon | |
 |
Amcrest ProHD Indoor Security Wireless Camera |
4.5 out of 5 |
Check On Amazon | |
 |
REOLINK Security PoE Camera for NAS |
4.5 out of 5 |
Check On Amazon | |
 |
REOLINK Outdoor Security Camera for Synology |
4.5 out of 5 |
Check On Amazon |
To read about our product selection procedure, visit the “About” page.
5 Best Synology Camera Reviews
On this exclusive list of all the great and Synology NAS compatible cameras, we’ve kept a variety in our selection. You’ll be able to find devices with various video capturing powers, night vision coverage, viewing angle of the lenses, and connect by features.
Rest assured, your search will come to end here!
1. Amcrest 4K Outdoor Security IP Turret PoE Camera for Synology NAS
Amcrest UltraHD Turret is undoubtedly one of the best IP cameras for Synology surveillance systems. It consists of many incredible features, including capturing footage at high resolutions. So, if you want a security camera that displays high-quality footage, this device is such a great option!
Key Features:
Wide Viewing Angle:
To start, this camera features a 105-deg viewing angle. This will ensure higher security since it will cover more ground. Even better, the 3840 X 2160 (8MP) resolution allows it to capture crystal clear footage.
Easy installation:
Installing this camera is quite simple, seeing that you only need to plug it into PoE (Power over Ethernet). This will eliminate the need for complicated wiring, which is another plus for your security system.
Night vision & Motion detection:
Another unique feature offered by this security camera is that it comes with inbuilt IR LEDs. This ensures your surveillance system is safe day and night. To be precise, it can capture images with a night vision of up to 98ft.
On top of that, it features an 8MP CMOS image sensor as well as advanced motion detection.
Amcrest Cloud Application:
Amcrest Cloud applications ensure that you don’t miss a thing when you’re using this device. For instance, the app allows you to record, monitor and playback any footage from anywhere around the world.
Even better, the app works with Amazon Alexa to give you a hands-free surveillance system. Moreover, you’ll get an alert on this app, anytime the camera detects motion.
This cloud app also eliminates the need for extra SD cards or hard drivers to store the recorded footage. Instead, the camera has a cloud storage subscription that allows you to save and watch unlimited footage.
Secure:
In terms of security, this Synology station camera has Dual H265/ H264 compression to ensure maximum encryption. Therefore, you can rest assured that your surveillance system will always be safe & secure! Also, it has an inbuilt microphone that allows one-way audio.
As for construction, the camera has a heavy-duty metal housing with an IP67 waterproof rating. Thus making it the best Synology IP camera for outdoor use.
Benefits:
- Great image & video recording quality
- High Night vision
- Alexa connectivity
- Convenient installation
- Customizable Amcrest Cloud Application
Drawbacks:
- Motion detection may send unnecessary alerts
2. Amcrest 5MP UltraHD IP Turret PoE Camera with Mic
This is yet another Synology compatible camera from Amcrest that we’ve included on our list. That shouldn’t come as a surprise though, seeing that Amcerest’s devices are known for their amazing quality images and reliability. Besides, this 5MP turret-style IP camera is an excellent option for home or small business security installation.
Best of all, this unit features motion detection alerts and it’s compatible with the Amcrest cloud app. That way, you can watch live footage of your property on a mobile device or desktop, even when you are away!
Key Features:
Weatherproof:
Amcrest 5MP Turret IP camera comes in inbuilt IR lights and heavy-duty IP67 housing. In other words, it’s quite sturdy and can withstand some rough weather. Such properties make it another great outdoor camera for Synology surveillance systems.
Great Night Vision:
As we’ve already mentioned, this device is equipped with the latest IR (infrared) technology. Thus allowing it to see up to a distance of 98 ft when it gets dark. Not to forget that its camera has a 5MP (2592 X 1944) resolution and a 103 deg viewing angle. All these factors enable it to capture high-quality footage, even in low-light conditions.
Smart Alerts and Storage Options:
Like most Amcrest security devices, this IP camera is compatible with the Amcrest App. This application is very customizable and comes with various options to enhance the user’s experience. That way, when the camera sensors motion, you’ll get a notification on your phone, depending on your preferences.
Moving on to storage, this device records the detected motion and stores it in the Amcrest app. However, this data can also be stored on a microSD card of up to 256GB or a cloud application. More notably, it works with Synology & QNAP NAS, Amcrest NVRs, and other storage options.
Incredible Security:
To ensure the security of the recorded data, this camera is fitted with dual H.265/ H.264 compression. This improved technology saves storage space without compromising the video quality.
Still, on security, this device updates its firmware regularly to capture the latest security protocols. Plus the recorded video is stored on a secure web-based server. Moreover, the device has an in-built one-way mic, allowing you to hear what’s happening around your home without being seen/ heard.
Benefits:
- Quick & easy installation
- Excellent night vision & low-light performance
- Wide-angle camera
- Smart alerts & motion detection
- Secure remote storage
Drawbacks:
- Lacks PoE injector/ switch
3. Amcrest ProHD Indoor Pan/Tilt Security Wi-Fi Camera
So far we’ve only reviewed outdoor cameras that work with Synology surveillance. Well, the 1920TVL ProHD Security camera is a bit different!
Unlike the options above, it’s designed for indoor use and supports Wi-Fi connectivity. The only issue you may encounter with this device is that you can’t mount it or nail it down to a surface. Luckily, you can simply place it on the office desk and start using it right away.
Besides, it has many stand-out features, yet it’s a relatively affordable camera for Synology surveillance systems.
Key Features:
Design:
At first glance, the Amcrest 1920TVL camera has a modern-looking, sleek, and round design. More notably, it’s available in various color options, including black, white, and silver. At the same time, it has a pleasant, stylish look and solid construction, meaning it will last for years.
Regarding the dimension, the camera measures 4.5 X 3.9 X 4.0”. That aside, the device has a round camera head that is attached to the motorized cradle. This technology provides a 45 deg tilt maneuverability and 360 deg. panning.
1080P HD Recording:
With its Sony image sensor and Ambarella processor, this camera streams high-quality videos. More importantly, it delivers vivid colors and lively images at 30 fps, thanks to the 1920 X 1080p resolution.
Tilt/ Pan with Improved Zoom:
This security camera has a 90 deg viewing angle and a fluid 360-deg tilt/ pan visibility. In addition, it’s equipped with an intelligent zoom feature that constantly enhances and sharpens the video.
Another feature that enhances visibility is that the device comes with 12 infrared LEDs. This gives the camera a night vision of up to 32 ft. Such cutting-edge technology will give you crystal clear images even in the dark.
Storage Options:
Amcrest Synology indoor camera offers many storage options including AMcrest NVR, NAS, and an FTP server. Moreover, you can store the recorded data on a computer or MicroSD card.
However, the most interesting option is that this device comes with free cloud storage. This means that you can store continuous recordings for 4 hours without paying a subscription fee.
2-way Audio:
Lastly, this security camera comes with inbuilt 2-way audio. Therefore, you can listen to what intruders are saying and even speak back. Best of all, the system has an innovative noise-canceling algorithm, which filters the background noise.
Benefits:
- Reasonably priced
- High-quality tilt, pan & zoom functionality
- Excellent night vision
- Great 2-way audio
- Quick & simple setup
- Wi-Fi Connectivity
Drawbacks:
- Some settings are hard to configure
4. REOLINK 5MP IP Security Video Surveillance Indoor/Outdoor PoE Camera
Manufactured by REOLINK, RLC-410 is a great camera that works with leading surveillance stations. As an example, it works with NAS enclosures from Synology, QNAP as well as ASUSTOR. More importantly, this device works both outside and inside the property.
Hence making it the best Synology camera for protecting every corner of your home! With that in mind, let’s look at some unique features you’ll get from this security camera!
Key Features:
Bullet-style Design:
To start, REOLINK RLC-410 is quite compact, seeing that it features a bullet-style design. To be precise, its front part consists of the main unit, which is attached to the mount on its rear side. In terms of construction, the housing is entirely made up of aluminum.
This aids the IP66 waterproof rating, thus protecting it from weather damage when installed outdoors. Lastly, the rear side has 2 antenna connectors, a MicroSD slot, and a cable.
Video Quality:
The 80 deg viewing angle offered by this security camera delivers a wider screen coverage. While the 5MP camera records videos at 30fps with a resolution of 2560 X 1920p. For this reason, you’ll get bright and sharp images in real color.
In addition, this model is fitted with advanced automatic IR technology. Thanks to the inbuilt 18 IR LEDs, allowing it to capture images within a range of 100ft during the night. Even better, the device has a single light sensor that switches between night and day modes automatically.
Remote Access:
REOLINK RLC-410 allows you to access your surveillance system remotely from any location. This is because the device is compatible with the Reolink App, which is quite simple to set up. Besides, you just need to scan the QR code with the app, and you’re good to go.
Afterward, you can use the app to adjust the security camera’s settings, playback the footage, and get alert notifications.
Motion Detection:
Speaking of alerts, you’ll get notified of everything this security camera detects unusual movement via the app. That’s because the device has motion detection features. Interestingly, you can customize the sensitivity of these sensors.
This will help you to eliminate false alarms and unnecessary notifications.
As for installation, this unit features a plug & play PoE operation. This reduces the number of wires needed during installation. Also, it makes it an excellent option for DIY enthusiasts and beginner camera users.
Benefits:
- Affordable
- night vision
- Ideal for indoor and outdoor use
- Customizable sensitivity of motion sensors
- Reliable remote access via Reolink’s app
- 2560 X 1920p camera resolution
Drawbacks:
- No internal battery
5. REOLINK PoE Outdoor Home Security IP Cameras
Last on the list is this REOLINK RLC-520 model which is a budget-friendly outdoor security camera. Like its predecessor, it comes with a 5MP resolution, and it’s specifically designed to withstand harsh weather elements. Moreover, it has other great features like 100ft night vision and motion detection.
In other words, it has features you’ll find in the RLC-410 model. However, it has a completely redesigned body, since it has a dome-type case, instead of the bullet-shaped design. More importantly, it comes as a set of 2 identical PoE security cameras!
Key Features:
Build Quality:
As we’ve already stated, Reolink RLC-520 features a dome-shaped casing with a white matte finish. In terms of construction, the camera’s body is crafted from some alloy, but its base is crafted from plastic material.
Video Quality & Viewing Angle:
With its 2560 X 1920p resolution, this 5MP security camera captures crystal clear footage with fine details. As if that’s not enough, it’s equipped with advanced 3D-DNR technology and 18 infrared LEDs.
These improvements give a 100ft night vision range, giving you a clear view even at night. In addition, the camera has a viewing angle of up to 80 degrees.
Fast Hardware Installation & Setup:
Since this device is a PoE camera, you only need one cable to transmit both power and data. This simplifies the wiring process, making it quite easy to install and set up, even for DIY enthusiasts. Moreover, using this device is very simple as well.
For instance, the device comes with a free App that you can use to access its features remotely. Even better, you can control hand-free with voice commands through Google Assistant.
24/7 Motion Recording & Sensitivity:
This PoE security camera supports both continuous recording and motion-activated recording. Motion recording is recommended in low-traffic areas or at night to save storage areas. However, in high-traffic areas, 24/7 (continuous) recording is more suitable.
Talking of storage, this device allows various options for storing the recorded footage. For instance, it has a micro SD card slot that supports up to 128GG storage capacity. Alternatively, you can store that recorded data in NAS, FTP server, or Reolink NVRs.
Benefits:
- Inbuilt mic to improve sound recordings
- Multiple storage options
- Clear image & video quality
- Easy installation
- User-friendly app
Drawbacks:
- No pan/ tilt movements
Comparison Table of Our Recommended Products
|
Product Name |
Video Resolution |
Night Vision |
Connectivity |
|
AMCREST UltraHD 8MP IP Turret Camera |
8 MP |
98 ft. | Wired |
|
AMCREST UltraHD 5MP IP PoE Camera |
5 MP |
98 ft. |
Wired |
|
Amcrest ProHD 1920TVL 1080P WiFi Camera |
2 MP |
32 ft. |
Wireless |
| REOLINK indoor/outdoor PoE Camera |
5 MP |
100 ft. |
Wired |
| REOLINK RLC-520 PoE IP Cameras |
5 MP |
100 ft. |
Wired |
What to Consider Before Buying a Camera for Synology Surveillance Station
Various factors come into play when you’re looking for the best IP camera for a Synology surveillance station. Some of these factors include;
Resolution
An IP security camera for Synology should have the ability to work well in high-quality light and low-light conditions. More notably, it should have a high resolution to deliver clear footage. Hence increasing the reliability of your Synology surveillance system.
With that in mind, look for security cameras with high megapixels like 5MP, 8MP, 4K, and so on. That way, you’ll get super clear, sharp, and colorful images.
At the same time, it’s good to consider the viewing angle of the security image. In essence, you need to choose a device that has a wider angle. This will enable the camera to capture more space, thus providing more coverage for your property.
Note, the camera’s viewing angle depends on its lens size. For instance, lower lens sizes tend to have a wider viewing angle. So, when choosing a security camera, it’s important to consider the lens size as well. As an example, a 2.8 mm lens has a wider angle as compared to a 4 mm lens.
Motion Detection
Motion detection is another essential feature to consider when buying a surveillance camera. This will help your surveillance station to detect unprecedented movement on your property. Even better, you’ll get an alert of the same on your desktop or phone right away.
Another benefit of this feature is that it saves time as well as storage space. Unlike continuous (24/7) recordings, motion recordings are only stored when movement is detected. This makes it easy to determine exactly when the incident happened.
Night Vision
A surveillance camera should have the ability to monitor areas at all times, especially during the night. For that reason, it’s important to choose a device that comes with night vision support, especially for outdoor usage.
In this case, check whether the camera is equipped with IR LEDs.
This will help you determine whether the camera will see clear at night. As an alternative, you can install Infrared floodlights close to your IP camera to assist its sensor once it gets dark.
Installation
A Synology IP camera should be easy to set up with your surveillance/ security system. In this regard, look for a camera system that supports plug & play operation.
This will make it easy to initialize your security system and start watching the live feed on the monitor screen right away. Besides, such devices are easy to install, even for DIY enthusiasts.
Therefore, you’ll need to spend more money hiring an expert to assemble the system for you. If possible, look for a security camera that supports PoE (Power over Ethernet). Such devices are easy to use and set up since both the data and power are transmitted via a single Ethernet cable.
Conclusion
Choosing the best IP camera for Synology will help you in various situations. For instance, it will alert you at the right time when there is an intruder on your property. Moreover, it will enable you to monitor your home or business in real-time even when you’re not around.
As you’ve seen, there are many Synology security cameras out there at the moment. However, not every camera system you see will work with Synology or meet your expectations. Thankfully, this guide will help you find a Synology camera that will suit your security needs.
So, check out the features and specs of the products we’ve listed until you get the right device for your project. More importantly, consider the aspects we’ve included in the buying guide to avoid making a wrong buying decision.