Is ChatGPT right about IP camera settings?

Cold-Lemonade

Pulling my weight
Apr 1, 2021
169
137
Boston
I asked ChatGPT what settings are best for an ip camera. Here's what it says about the choice of CBR versus VBR. Do you guys agree with the AI's advice?

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Generally speaking, no
 
These are topics where you can show how bad AI is LOL

I just asked ChatGPT "What is the best security camera"


The "best" security camera depends on what you're looking for in terms of features, budget, and installation requirements. However, I can give you a breakdown of some top options across different categories:


Best Overall (for most people)


Arlo Pro 4


  • Pros:
    • 2K video resolution
    • Wide 160-degree field of view
    • Color night vision
    • Wire-free (works on battery or plugged in)
    • Smart notifications (detects people, animals, and vehicles)
    • Works with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Homekit
  • Cons:
    • Requires subscription for cloud storage (though local storage option is available)

Best for Budget


Wyze Cam v3


  • Pros:
    • Affordable (around $35)
    • 1080p video resolution
    • Color night vision
    • Works indoors and outdoors
    • Free cloud storage (up to 14 days)
  • Cons:
    • Limited advanced features (e.g., no 4K resolution)

Best for Smart Home Integration


Nest Cam (Battery)


  • Pros:
    • 1080p HD video
    • Google Assistant integration (ideal if you're in the Google ecosystem)
    • Intelligent alerts (person detection, motion alerts)
    • Can work with Google Nest Hub for video streaming
  • Cons:
    • Cloud storage requires a subscription
    • Shorter battery life compared to some other models

Best for Outdoor Use


Ring Floodlight Cam


  • Pros:
    • 1080p HD video
    • Two-way audio
    • Motion-triggered floodlights and siren
    • Works with Alexa
    • Integration with Ring’s extensive ecosystem
  • Cons:
    • Requires a subscription for cloud storage

Best for 4K Video Quality


Amcrest 4K UltraHD Security Camera


  • Pros:
    • Stunning 4K resolution
    • Great for large properties that need highly detailed video
    • Wired (PoE—Power over Ethernet, so no need for separate power cables)
    • Smart motion detection
  • Cons:
    • More complicated installation (especially if you’re not tech-savvy)
    • Higher cost compared to 1080p cameras

Best for Privacy & Local Storage


Eufy Security Cam 2 Pro


  • Pros:
    • 2K resolution
    • Local storage option (no subscription required)
    • Battery-powered with a decent battery life
    • Works with Alexa and Google Assistant
  • Cons:
    • Lacks some advanced AI features like person/vehicle detection

Best for DIY Home Surveillance


Blink Outdoor


  • Pros:
    • Affordable (camera kit starts at around $80)
    • Works on AA batteries for up to two years
    • Good video quality (1080p HD)
    • Integration with Alexa
  • Cons:
    • Requires cloud storage subscription for video history (but has a free tier for live viewing)




Things to Consider Before Buying


  1. Resolution: 1080p is good for most, but if you want extremely detailed images, 4K or 2K might be a better choice.
  2. Cloud vs. Local Storage: Some cameras store video on the cloud, which may require a subscription. Others offer local storage options (e.g., SD cards or base stations) to avoid additional fees.
  3. Power Source: Some cameras are battery-powered, which makes installation easier but can require recharging. Wired cameras generally require more effort to install but have continuous power.
  4. Smart Home Compatibility: Consider whether the camera integrates with Alexa, Google Assistant, or other smart home systems you already use.
  5. Indoor vs. Outdoor Use: Outdoor cameras typically have better weatherproofing and a higher range for night vision, so make sure your camera matches the intended use.
 
Reolink didn't make the list so I asked?

Reolink is definitely a top contender in the security camera market, offering some great options for both home and business surveillance. They’re known for providing solid performance at a reasonable price, with a focus on high-quality video, ease of use, and flexible storage options.
 
We are concerned about night quality so I asked if Reolinks are good at night time:

Yes, Reolink cameras are actually quite good at night, and their night vision performance is one of their standout features. Compared to cheaper cameras, Reolink offers sharper, clearer night-time footage. The combination of IR LEDs for traditional night vision and color night vision (when available) makes a huge difference in overall visibility.
 
My take is to try out the different settings and pick the one that best fits your needs. AI will typically just regurgitate someone else's opinion.
 
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Works better if you ask this:



Here are the best recommended IP cameras at 3 price points (Budget, Mid-Range, and Premium) from IPCamTalk in 2025, separated by category: PTZ, Varifocal, and Fixed cameras.

PTZ (Pan–Tilt–Zoom)


TierCameraHighlightsEst. Price
BudgetDahua SD49225XA-HNR2MP, 25× zoom, Starlight night vision, good autotracking, great value~$200–250
Mid-RangePTZ5A4M-25X(EmpireTech)4MP, 25× zoom, heavy-duty build, highly recommended under $1k~$700–800
PremiumEmpireTech PTZ4K45X-AI8MP 4K, 45× zoom, top-tier AI, autotracking, excellent night performance~$1200–1400

Varifocal (Motorized Zoom)


TierCameraHighlightsEst. Price
BudgetDahua IPC-HDW5442T-ZE4MP, 2.7–12mm varifocal, Starlight+, solid WDR, high performance for the price~$150–200
Mid-RangeDahua T54IR-ZE(EmpireTech)Most recommended varifocal bullet in 2025 threads, 4MP, IR, motorized zoom~$250–300
PremiumAxis P1455-LE1080p, excellent color rendering and firmware, pro-level build and long lifespan~$600–800

Fixed (Wide-Angle)


TierCameraHighlightsEst. Price
BudgetDahua IPC-HFW2231S2MP, 2.8mm lens, excellent low-light (Starlight), perfect for general overview~$80–110
Mid-RangeDahua IPC-T5442TM-AS4MP, fixed turret, color night vision, mic, PoE; strong performer for homes~$140–170
PremiumAxis M3116-LVE4MP, compact dome, true WDR, onboard analytics, great for clean installs~$350–450

IPCamTalk Best Practices

  • Mix & Match: Use fixed wide-angle cameras for scene awareness + varifocal/PTZ for facial or plate detail.
  • Low-light = Dahua wins in value tiers; Axis leads at high-end.
  • EmpireTech = rebranded Dahua often sold directly through IPCamTalk’s store.