Top 5 Outdoor PoE Cameras: Must-Have Security Now

Ever wonder what’s happening outside your home when you’re not looking? Maybe you want to keep an eye on packages or just see the neighborhood squirrels. Choosing the right outdoor security camera can feel like a puzzle. There are so many words like “PoE,” “resolution,” and “night vision” that can make your head spin.

It’s tough to pick a camera that works well in rain or shine and gives you clear pictures day or night. You don’t want to buy one only to find out it’s too complicated or doesn’t see enough of your yard. This guide is here to clear up the confusion about Outdoor PoE Cameras.

We will break down what makes a good outdoor camera and explain what “PoE” really means in simple terms. By the end, you will know exactly what features matter for keeping your property safe and sound. Let’s dive in and find the perfect outdoor eye for your home!

Top Outdoor Poe Camera Recommendations

No. 1

Amcrest 5MP Turret POE Camera, UltraHD Outdoor IP Camera POE with Mic/Audio, 5-Megapixel Security Surveillance Cameras, 98ft NightVision, 132° FOV, MicroSD (256GB), (IP5M-T1179EW-AI-V3)

CMOS ILLUMINATION & MIC – Stunning low-light 5MP performance with CMOS 1/2.7” image sensor and 5MP resolution (2592x1944). Super-wide 132° viewing angle allows you to cover more ground. Power Over Ethernet (POE camera) for easy installation (POE Injector or Switch Required; Not Included, Sold Separately). Does Not Include a Power Supply. This is a FIXED IP camera and Does Not Pan/Tilt. Built-in mic for one-way audio.
SMARTER SECURITY & STORAGE OPTIONS – Receive motion alert notifications and review footagewith the Amcrest View Pro 2 app. Playback and record professionally on a PC using the Amcrest Orion Surveillance for Windows and MAC (included) or third-party software such as Blue Iris. Works with Amcrest Cloud remote video storage, MicroSD Card (up to 256GB), Amcrest NVRs, Synology and QNAP NAS, FTP, Edge, Chrome, Mozilla Firefox & Safari. (This camera does not support Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity.)
DAY OR NIGHT, RAIN OR SHINE – Built to weather any storm and the darkest of nights, this 5-Megapixel Turret PoE IP Camera features a heavy-duty weatherproof IP67 housing as well as built-in IR LEDs and a CMOS technology image sensor to achieve industry leading low-light performance and night-vision up to 98 feet. H.264 compression allows for maximum encryption with the latest technology as well as backwards compatibility with legacy platforms.
SECURE REMOTE STORAGE – The optional Amcrest Cloud remote video storage subscription service allows you automatically store your videos off-site in a third-party location hosted and secured by Amazon AWS. This way if something happens to your local PC/NVR/SDcard/NAS, the footage will be safely recorded in a secure off-site location and accessible to you through a web-based Flash interface for PC (Chrome/Firefox/Safari/Edge) and AmcrestCloud app.
SIMPLE, RELIABLE, SECURE - This camera features a secure connection, and receives regular firmware updates. You’ll receive Lifetime Support provided directly from Amcrest. Compatible with the following Amcrest Junction Boxes, ASIN: B07CB468HC, B071L2RDK2, & B07195BN8X.

No. 2

REOLINK 5MP Security PoE IP Camera, Person/Vehicle/Pet Detection, Time-Lapse, 100ft IR Night Vision, Work with Smart Home, Support 512GB SD Card, Surveillance Outdoor Indoor, RLC-510A

SMART PERSON/VEHICLE/ANIMAL DETECTION: Say goodbye to unwanted alarms. With advanced person/vehicle/animal detection, the camera identifies genuine threats using cutting-edge algorithms, providing you with ultimate peace of mind. Animal detection is supported if your camera's firmware is updated to the latest version.
EXCEPTIONAL 5MP SUPER HD: This PoE IP camera boasts 5MP videos at 25fps, capturing passing moments in ultra-sharp resolution without missing key details. With 18 specs IR lights and 3D-DNR technic, this camera is capable of delivering up to 100ft astounding night vision.
MULTIPLE RECORDING OPTIONS: You can save 24/7 recordings or motion-detected videos to a 512GB microSD card (not included), FTP server, NAS, and Reolink PoE NVRs (Please note the hardware version) without an extra fee. Note that this PoE surveillance camera does not support third-party NVRs or camera systems.
EASY REMOTE ACCESS WITH FREE APP/CLIENT: Enjoy live view, playback, and notifications via the free Reolink App and Client (iOS, Android, Windows, Mac) without any subscription. For first-time setup and activation, the camera must be connected to the same local network via a PoE switch/NVR using an Ethernet cable. For troubleshooting and setup assistance, contact Reolink's customer support for step-by-step guidance.
TIMELAPSE TO SEE THE DAY IN A MINTUTE: This surveillance camera supports recording time-lapse videos. You can keep tracking of your 3D printing, see the whole construction process in a few minutes, or capture beautiful views from sunrise to sunset. It is easy to use and fun to share with friends. (Time lapse only works on Reolink App.)

No. 3

REOLINK 5MP PoE Security Camera, Surveillance Outdoor Indoor for home, Person/Vehicle/Pet Detection, Time-Lapse, Work with Smart Home, 100ft IR Night Vision, Support 512GB SD Card, RLC-520A(Pack of 2)

SMART PERSON/VEHICLE/ANIMAL DETECTION: Say goodbye to unwanted alarms. With advanced person/vehicle/animal detection, the camera identifies genuine threats using cutting-edge algorithms, providing you with ultimate peace of mind. Animal detection is supported if your camera's firmware is updated to the latest version.
Exceptional 5MP Super HD and Sound Recording: Boasting a high resolution of 2560x1920 at 25 fps, the RLC-520A security IP camera can capture crystal clear video with vivid details. With the built-in microphone, it also picks up ambient sound for an extra layer of security.
Time-Lapse to See the Day in a Minute: This surveillance camera supports to record time-lapse videos. You can keep tracking of your 3D printing, see the whole construction process in a few minutes, or capture beautiful views from sunrise to sunset. It is easy to use and fun to share with friends. (Time lapse only works on Reolink App.)
Easy PoE Installation: This POE IP security camera uses a single Ethernet cable to transmit both data and power. Easily set up this camera with Reolink NVR/IEEE802.3af PoE switch/injector/DC 12V power adapter (Not included). Plug-and-Play reliable connection for DIY enthusiasts.
Flexible Recording Options: The surveillance camera supports 24/7 continuous recording when movement is detected or during a scheduled time. Videos can be saved in the microSD card (up to 512GB, not included), Reolink NVR, or FTP server. Choose a way you prefer and enjoy customized security.

No. 4

REOLINK 5MP PoE Security Camera, Outdoor Indoor Surveillance for home, Person/Vehicle/Pet Detection, Time-Lapse, 100ft IR Night Vision, Work with Smart Home, support 512GB SD Card, RLC-510A(Pack of 2)

SMART PERSON/VEHICLE/ANIMAL DETECTION: Say goodbye to unwanted alarms. With advanced person/vehicle/animal detection, the camera identifies genuine threats using cutting-edge algorithms, providing you with ultimate peace of mind. Animal detection is supported if your camera's firmware is updated to the latest version.
EXCEPTIONAL 5MP SUPER HD: This PoE IP camera boasts 5MP videos at 25fps, capturing passing moments in ultra-sharp resolution without missing key details. With 18 specs IR lights and 3D-DNR technic, this camera is capable of delivering up to 100ft astounding night vision.
MULTIPLE RECORDING OPTIONS: You can save 24/7 recordings or motion-detected videos to a 512GB microSD card (not included), FTP server, NAS, and Reolink PoE NVRs (Please note the hardware version) without an extra fee. Note that this PoE surveillance camera does not support third-party NVRs or camera systems.
EASY REMOTE ACCESS WITH FREE APP/CLIENT: Enjoy live view, playback, and notifications via the free Reolink App and Client (iOS, Android, Windows, Mac) without any subscription. For first-time setup and activation, the camera must be connected to the same local network via a PoE switch/NVR using an Ethernet cable. For troubleshooting and setup assistance, contact Reolink's customer support for step-by-step guidance.
TIMELAPSE TO SEE THE DAY IN A MINTUTE: This surveillance camera supports recording time-lapse videos. You can keep tracking of your 3D printing, see the whole construction process in a few minutes, or capture beautiful views from sunrise to sunset. It is easy to use and fun to share with friends. (Time lapse only works on Reolink App.)

No. 5

Amcrest 5MP Outdoor POE Camera 2592 x 1944p Bullet IP Security Camera, IP67, 132° Viewing Angle, Human & Vehicle Detection, Tripwire & Intrusion, 5-Megapixel, IP5M-B1186EW-AI-V3 (White)

AI FEATURES – AI Bullet PoE IP Camera features Human & Vehicle Detection, IVS (Tripwire, Intrusion Detection) which triggers an event anytime a human or vehicle crosses the defined area (prevents false alerts). Stunning 5-Megapixel 2592 x 1944p video resolution with enhanced low light capability on this POE outdoor camera utilizing an CMOS progressive image sensor., 5-Megapixel @20fps video with a super-wide 132° viewing angle. PoE injector or switch required; not included, sold separately. Works with Alexa through AmcrestCloud.
SMARTER SECURITY – Adjust motion detection zones and sensitivity and receive email/phone alerts and review footage via the Amcrest View Pro 2 app. Playback and record professionally on a PC using the Amcrest Orion Surveillance software or Blue Iris Professional. Works with Amcrest Cloud remote video storage, Amcrest NVRs, and QNAP NAS, FTP, SeaMonkey, and Pale Moon Browsers, IE, Safari, Firefox 49.0, and Chrome with Amcrest Web View Extension
DAY OR NIGHT, RAIN OR SHINE – This outdoor POE IP camera features a heavy-duty metal weatherproof IP67 housing, as well as a built-in IR, LED and a low lux image sensor to achieve amazing low-light capability and night-vision up to 98.4 feet. H.264 compression allows for maximum encryption with the latest technology as well as backward compatibility with legacy platforms. This camera is compatible with Amcrest NVR's and has limited compatibility with third party NVR's.
SECURE CLOUD VIDEO BACKUP – The optional Amcrest Cloud remote video storage subscription service allows you automatically store your videos off-site in a third-party location hosted and secured by Amazon AWS. This way if something happens to your local PC/NVR/NAS, the footage will be safely recorded in a secure off-site location and accessible to you through a web-based Flash interface for PC (Chrome/Firefox/Safari/Edge) and AmcrestCloud smartphone app.
SIMPLE, RELIABLE, SECURE – This Amcrest POE camera features a secure connection, and receives regular firmware updates. At Amcrest, we want to ensure the safety of our customers, their loved ones, homes and businesses. You’ll receive Lifetime Support provided directly from Amcrest. Compatible with the following Amcrest Junction Boxes, ASIN: B0711CNYDW, B08HJQB863, & B07195BN8X

No. 6

REOLINK Wired Security Camera Outdoor, IP PoE Dome Surveillance Camera, Smart Human/Vehicle Detection, Work with Smart Home, 100ft 5MP HD IR Night Vision, Up to 512GB microSD Card, RLC-520A

SMART PERSON/VEHICLE/ANIMAL DETECTION: Say goodbye to unwanted alarms. With advanced person/vehicle/animal detection, the camera identifies genuine threats using cutting-edge algorithms, providing you with ultimate peace of mind. Animal detection is supported if your camera's firmware is updated to the latest version.
Exceptional 5MP Super HD and Sound Recording: Boasting a high resolution of 2560x1920 at 25 fps, the RLC-520A security IP camera can capture crystal clear video with vivid details. With the built-in microphone, it also picks up ambient sound for an extra layer of security.
Time-Lapse to See the Day in a Minute: This surveillance camera supports recording time-lapse videos. You can keep tracking of your 3D printing, see the whole construction process in a few minutes, or capture beautiful views from sunrise to sunset. It is easy to use and fun to share with friends. (Time lapse only works on Reolink App.)
Faster and Simplified PoE Installation: Thanks to the power over Ethernet (PoE) technology, this outdoor camera can transmit videos and get power, signal, data via only one network cable, no WiFi worries. Simplified wiring means easier and cleaner installation. NOTE: Power supply is not included.
Flexible Recording Options: The surveillance camera supports 24/7 continuous recording when movement is detected or during a scheduled time. Videos can be saved on a microSD card (up to 512GB, not included), Reolink NVR, or FTP server. Choose a way you prefer and enjoy customized security.

No. 7

REOLINK Duo 3 PoE 16MP UHD Dual-Lens PoE Security Camera with 180° Panoramic View, Motion Track, F1.6 Color Night Vision, Person/Vehicle/Animal Detection, 2 Way Talk, Supports 24/7 Recording

16MP UHD & COLOR NIGHT VISION: Featuring two 4K image sensors, this dual-lens camera brings 16 UHD clarity to you, ensuring no small detail goes unnoticed. The F1.6 super aperture and 1/2.7'' CMOS sensor enable greater light intake, while 6x infrared LED lights unveil all night details up to 100ft.
180° PANORAMIC VIEW & MOTION TRACK: The dual-image stitching algorithms, coupled with 4-core SoC, create 180° panoramic views with less distortion & fewer blind spots. Thanks to the Motion Track feature that displays the complete movement of the target over time in one picture, you can save the hassle of viewing the entire video to find suspicious moments.
SMART DETECTION & TWO-WAY TALK: Smartly detect person/car/animal movements from other objects, reducing false alarms. Upon motion detection, you’ll receive Push/email instantly and can talk with people by the cam side via 2-way talk directly through Reolink App/Client.
PoE TECH & IP67 WEATHERPROOF: Only one cable handles both data transmission and stable power supply. (Note: The PoE NVR/switch/injector and DC power adapter are not included.) An easy setup for all-level users. Reolink Duo 3 PoE endures all weather conditions and facilitates ceiling or wall mounting. Ideal for versatile settings.
SMART USER EXPERIENCE & TIME LAPSE: Enhance your surveillance efficiency with multiple smart features: remote live viewing, custom motion zones, and smart playback (up to 16x speed). Plus, time-lapse condenses long-term events into minutes, facilitating easy observation of transformations.

No. 8

Real HD 4MP Full Color Night Vision PoE IP Turret Dome Camera, 2.8mm Wide Angle, H.265, CCTV Security Camera Outdoor Rated Waterproof IP66,NDAA Compliant

【Crisp 4MP HD Clarity & Full Color Night Vision】Experience sharp 2560×1440 resolution at 25fps with a 4MP turret dome IP camera. Equipped with a 1/2.8" CMOS sensor, it delivers vivid full-color imagery even at night, offering clear visibility up to 65 feet—far superior to traditional black-and-white night vision.
【Wide 105° View & All-Weather Durability】Featuring a 2.8mm wide-angle lens, this 4mp PoE camera provides a broad 105° field of view ideal for covering larger areas. Its IP66-rated housing ensures reliable performance in both indoor and outdoor environments, capable of standing up to harsh weather conditions year-round.
【Simple PoE Setup & Flexible Installation】As a Power over Ethernet (PoE camera), it transmits both power and data through a single network cable, making installation clean and straightforward. Perfect for plug-and-play operation with existing LAN infrastructure.
【Dual H.265/H.264 Compression】With H.265 compression, you can store more information using fewer hard drives, which allows you to do more with less, and dramatically reduce file sizes with this latest video compression format.
【Compatibility and US Local Tech Support】 Compatible Uniview Standalone NVR. Not compatible with Reolink/Lorex/Amcrest/Swann/Viewtron NVR. Chicago-based seller, tech support hour 9 am-5 pm CST. Please contact the seller for tech support.

Your Guide to Buying the Best Outdoor PoE Camera

Choosing the right outdoor Power over Ethernet (PoE) camera brings strong security to your home or business. These cameras use one cable for both power and data. This setup makes installation much easier. This guide helps you pick the perfect model.

Key Features to Look For

Several important features make a PoE camera work well outdoors. Think about what you need to see clearly, day or night.

Resolution: Look for at least 1080p (Full HD). Higher resolutions like 4MP or 4K give you sharper, clearer pictures. Clear pictures help you identify faces or license plates.
Night Vision: Good outdoor cameras need strong night vision. Infrared (IR) LEDs allow the camera to see in total darkness. Some advanced models offer color night vision using spotlights.
Field of View (FoV): This is how wide the camera can see. A wider FoV covers more area, but a narrower view offers better detail for specific spots.
Weatherproofing (IP Rating): Since the camera stays outside, it must handle rain and dust. Look for an IP66 or IP67 rating. This means the camera is well-protected against the weather.
Power over Ethernet (PoE Standard): Ensure the camera supports the PoE standard (like 802.3af or 802.3at). This confirms compatibility with your PoE switch or injector.

Important Materials and Durability

The materials used determine how long your camera lasts outdoors. You want tough stuff.

The camera housing should be strong metal, usually aluminum. Plastic housings can become brittle in the sun or cold. Metal bodies offer better protection against physical damage and help keep internal components cool. The lens material is also important. Glass lenses offer better clarity than plastic ones over time. Always check the operating temperature range. A good camera handles freezing winters and hot summers well.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

What makes one camera better than another? It often comes down to image processing and smart features.

Quality Boosters:

WDR (Wide Dynamic Range): This feature balances very bright and very dark areas in the same shot. It prevents bright sunlight from washing out important details.
Advanced Motion Detection: Modern cameras use AI to tell the difference between a person, a car, and a tree branch blowing in the wind. This reduces annoying false alarms.
H.265 Compression: This video compression standard lets you record high-quality video while using less storage space on your network video recorder (NVR) or storage card.

Quality Reducers:

Poor Low-Light Performance: If the camera struggles when the sun goes down, you lose valuable footage.
Weak Wi-Fi/Network Connection (If applicable): Even though PoE is wired, network issues can slow down the video stream. Ensure your network gear is fast enough for the camera’s bandwidth needs.
Cheap Lenses: Low-quality plastic lenses scratch easily and cause blurry images over time.

User Experience and Use Cases

A good PoE camera should offer simple setup and reliable daily operation. Since PoE simplifies wiring—one cable does everything—installation becomes much cleaner. You connect the camera to a PoE switch, and the switch handles the rest.

Common Use Cases:

Home Security: Monitor driveways, front doors, and backyards.
Business Monitoring: Keep an eye on stock entrances, parking lots, or sensitive interior areas.
Remote Viewing: Most good systems allow you to check the live feed or recorded clips using a smartphone app, no matter where you are.

Always check how easy the camera software is to navigate. Complex menus frustrate users. Look for cameras that integrate well with existing security systems or smart home platforms.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Outdoor PoE Cameras

Q: What is the main benefit of using PoE instead of a standard Wi-Fi camera?

A: PoE uses one cable for both power and data. This makes installation simpler and provides a more stable, reliable connection than Wi-Fi, which can drop out.

Q: Do I need a separate power supply for an outdoor PoE camera?

A: No, you do not. The power comes directly through the Ethernet cable from a PoE switch or a PoE injector.

Q: What does an IP67 rating mean for my camera?

A: An IP67 rating means the camera is completely dust-tight and can survive being submerged in water temporarily. It is very weatherproof.

Q: Can I use any Ethernet cable with a PoE camera?

A: You should use a high-quality Cat5e or Cat6 Ethernet cable. Longer runs might need Cat6 to ensure the power reaches the camera correctly.

Q: How far away can a PoE camera be from the switch?

A: Standard passive PoE usually works reliably up to 100 meters (about 328 feet) using standard Ethernet cable.

Q: What is WDR, and why do I need it outside?

A: WDR stands for Wide Dynamic Range. It helps the camera capture clear details when you have very bright sunlight and deep shadows present at the same time, which happens a lot outdoors.

Q: Does PoE use more electricity than a standard plug-in camera?

A: The power usage is generally very low. The efficiency of PoE often means less energy is wasted compared to running separate power adapters.

Q: Are outdoor PoE cameras hard to set up for beginners?

A: If you already have a PoE switch, setup is usually plug-and-play. If you need to set up recording software (NVR), that step takes a little more technical know-how.

Q: What resolution is best for clear license plate reading?

A: For reliable license plate capture, you should aim for 4MP (2K) resolution or higher, and make sure the camera is positioned correctly to capture the plate clearly.

Q: If the power goes out, will my PoE camera still record?

A: The camera will stop working if the power goes out, as PoE supplies the power. However, if your PoE switch is connected to an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS), the camera system can keep running for a short time.