In this video tutorial, we unbox, install, and review the Reolink RLC-812A 8MP 4K PoE security camera. We test it with the Reolink mobile app, desktop client software, and check compatibility with a 5MP NVR system. You'll also see night footage, spotlight performance, and smart AI features in action. This camera is feature-rich, easy to install, and subscription-free.
What's in the Box:
This Reolink RLC-812A camera offers professional-grade surveillance with 4K quality and intelligent detection features. It's an excellent upgrade for any PoE security system and works even with older NVRs (after firmware update).
Hi everyone, welcome back to another video! Today we’re reviewing the Reolink RLC-812A — an 8MP outdoor PoE security camera. We're replacing a 5MP turret cam to test this unit, and we'll also check its compatibility with a 5MP NVR system, as well as Reolink’s mobile and desktop software.
Let’s unbox the camera. Inside the box, you’ll find paperwork, installation guides, waterproof kits, screws and anchors, a network cable, and the camera itself. The housing is metal — not plastic — and very solid. It has a PoE connector, reset button, and optional DC input. This camera uses visible spotlights for night vision instead of infrared LEDs. You’ll also find a mic, speaker, and microSD slot.
One major benefit: this camera connects locally with no subscription required — secure and cost-saving.
For installation, you’ll need a ladder, hammer, Phillips screwdriver, drill and bits. We mounted it higher than the old camera to avoid weather exposure and get a better angle. We used the provided template to drill into stucco and installed anchors before securing the camera. Setup was simple with the Reolink app — plug in the PoE cable and wait a few minutes for detection.
Initially, our NVR showed “video loss” — likely due to the 5MP system not supporting the 8MP stream. We rebooted and reassigned the camera, but it still didn’t work. Finally, we downloaded the latest firmware for our NVR model, placed the .pack file on a USB drive, and updated the firmware through system settings. It worked!
The image quality is outstanding — extremely sharp and detailed, even when zoomed. Both the app and PC client software worked flawlessly. In our family room, we tested both day and night footage. At night, the spotlight made a noticeable difference in clarity compared to typical IR-based systems.
To summarize:
We highly recommend the Reolink RLC-812A for both new and existing PoE systems. You’ll find a link to purchase in the description below. Be sure to check our full security camera playlist for more Reolink reviews. If you found this helpful, give it a thumbs up and subscribe. Thanks for watching!
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