Post here to ask any questions about hardware suitability, configuration in ZoneMinder, or experiences. If you just want to know if something works with ZoneMinder or not, please check the Hardware Compatibility sections in the forum, and the Wiki first. Also search this topic as well.
I want to create a home surveillance system using Zoneminder. I'm starting from scratch and I want to make sure I don't buy anything that I'll regret later. For my setup I'll require 3/4 outdoor cameras and 1 indoor camera. With Zoneminder supporting so many different types of cameras, I'm having a very hard time deciding what cameras to get. I want to spend around $100 per camera. This is what I found so far:
When searching on Amazon, it seems like Foscam is dominating the market, however, these cameras have mixed reviews. Does anybody have experience connecting Foscam cameras to a Zoneminder system? I'm specifically looking at the Foscam FI8905W/FI8906W for outdoor and FI8909W for indoor.
The Uniden GC45 looks pretty good, but it doesn't look like it is supported by Zoneminder?
Then there's also those cheap no-name Chinese cameras. Should they be avoided or are some of them actually good?
The Axis cameras looks good, but $400 per camera is outside my budget.
I would also prefer if the cameras are power over Ethernet capable as that means I'll only need one cable going to the camera.
My question basically is can anyone recommend a good value for money indoor & outdoor camera in the $100-$150 price range?
I know this is a subjective question, but if I can get an expert's opinion it will greatly help me in my decision making process.
I recommend GrandStream cameras. They're probably at the top end of your budget but they're working nicely for me. Amazon and NewEgg seem to have pretty good prices for various models.
I'm got a couple Hikvision DS-2CD2032-I cams that I got from Aliexpress for $85 apiece shipped. Hikvision is a reputable brand BUT you don't get support from them if you buy them gray market through Chinese distributors. Mine have been solid and I'm very happy with them. I use one in 2MP (1080p) mode and the other in 3MP (2048x1536) mode. There are a lot of sketchy no-name Chinese cams but these definitely are not part of that group.