Wyze Security cameras in the rain

[branimal]

Wyze is taking pre-orders for their 3rd generation wireless cameras for $20/. Do these cameras hold up in the rain/snow? (I'm in NYC). I don't have awnings or any other cover for the cameras so they would be exposed to the elements.

Alternatively I can install them inside the first floor apartment window jambs. That would be about 9' off the ground.

Here's the link.... pretty good deal I think.

https://wyze.com/wyze-cam-v3.html

 

[lonestardiver]

I have 2 on order...I will investigation the same concern.

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[gunit1400]

It says right in their description that you linked that it's weatherproof.

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[Moosefire]

Maybe I missed it, but how do you view the video? Is it just wifi/live streamed somehow or do you need a box that zll the cameras hook up to?

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[branimal]

It says right in their description that you linked that it's weatherproof.

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Yep, saw that. But then I watched a bunch of videos and everyone seems to have them under awnings or eases. I'm gonna give it a shot.

 

[aka Larry]

Didn't I hear they had major security (privacy) issues with these in the past? I have a buddy who has one that said a hack can be used to eliminate the issue, but that's assuming you are tech savy enough to do it.

 

[Bad Habit]

I think they store on a local SD card in the camera, then uploads to the cloud where you access it via a smartphone app.

 

[bwringer]

Maybe I missed it, but how do you view the video? Is it just wifi/live streamed somehow or do you need a box that zll the cameras hook up to?

You view the video using an app on a phone or tablet.

That's one of the ways they can make the cameras so cheap; the camera is the only hardware needed. You install the app, plug in the camera while you're connected to the same wifi network, set up the camera via the app, and you're done.

Once you're set up, you can access the camera via the app wherever you have an internet connection.

The only wired connection the cameras need is a USB cable, which is only used for power. You need to make sure there's a decent wifi signal in the mounting location.

 

[branimal]

Maybe I missed it, but how do you view the video? Is it just wifi/live streamed somehow or do you need a box that zll the cameras hook up to?

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You can watch it from your cell phone. Motion activated events get recorded to the cloud. There is an option for an SD card for continuous recording.

 

[JRC3]

Alternatively I can install them inside the first floor apartment window jambs. That would be about 9' off the ground.

If you are saying inside a window or behind a storm window the motion sensor won't work through glass. Also pretty sure the infrared won't work through glass for the night vision either.

 

[branimal]

If you are saying inside a window or behind a storm window the motion sensor won't work through glass. Also pretty sure the infrared won't work through glass for the night vision either.

Good to know. Guess I’ll find out soon if they can handle the rain.

 

[Hubmonkey]

You can watch it from your cell phone. Motion activated events get recorded to the cloud. There is an option for an SD card for continuous recording.

Yes but only 14 seconds worth in the cloud (free). There is also a max amount of Micro-SD card you can put in them.

These are fun to play with and a cheap alternative to some others options. I have the Kit that comes with 2 door sensors, a motion sensor, a camera and a wireless bridge. I use them in the shop but only as a secondary.

Hub

 

[lonestardiver]

I believe it is 14 seconds per motion event with up to 2 weeks available in the cloud.

My main interest is the ability to watch areas of the yard on demand.

As far as environmental issues, I would have to have under eaves, and other shaded locations due to the Texas heat.... When it is 110+ outside and you are in the sun, it gets to be a bit hotter inside those units....

I am thinking about trying one up on my Ham Radio Tower as well.

 

[nafterclifen]

They are awesome cameras, for the price. Many people have been using the indoor models in some pretty extreme conditions outdoors with pretty good results. I'm willing to bet you'll be safe using an outdoor camera outside. If it does die though, you're only out $20 - that's nothing in today's world.

And yes - you can watch the cameras on demand from any Apple or Android device. They've talked about releasing special RTSP firmware so that the cameras could be used by 3-rd party DVR software but no dates have been made available so I wouldn't hold your breath. There is a 3rd "custom" viewing option that involves a computer. You can install Bluestacks, an Android emulator, on your computer and install the Wyze app within Bluestacks. I've done this to keep an eye on my kids in our home "classroom" and it works really well. Audio and mic still work too!

 

[borgdog]

If you are saying inside a window or behind a storm window the motion sensor won't work through glass. Also pretty sure the infrared won't work through glass for the night vision either.

I have 2 of the v2 indoor ones looking out windows (glass) that detect motion and people just fine. infrared does need to be turned off for night vision or you just get glare reflection off the glass.

The new v3 night vision stuff looks pretty cool, have one on order look forward to trying it out.

 

[esvee]

I've got a few wyze cameras, two of which has been outside in the PNW for the last two years. They've been frozen, wet, hot, you name it. No failures whatsoever. I did have one SD card go corrupt on me, but that's it.

 

[Jagmandave]

We've had our Wyze cams (indoor only) for about 3 years now - great product.

I think we'll add a couple of the outdoor ones too.

 

[dcg9381]

I have several outside. They're all on eves - so not directly in the rain, but they do get some cross-wind. I have them in "cases" bought on Amazon. No failures so far.

 

[Moosefire]

How long are the power cords fir each camera? Do you guys have dedicated receptacles where you mount the cameras if the cord is too short, or...?

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[branimal]

How long are the power cords fir each camera? Do you guys have dedicated receptacles where you mount the cameras if the cord is too short, or...?

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Vaguely recall seeing they are 6’

 

[nafterclifen]

How long are the power cords fir each camera? Do you guys have dedicated receptacles where you mount the cameras if the cord is too short, or...?

6' and I've been able to run 120v extension cords or USB extension cords if/when needed.

 

[jay8s]

I have 4 indoor Wyze cams, and the outdoor version. I am not a fan of the Outdoor one. It will only record for 12 seconds. It does have a 1 minute rest time, but it is only offers the small snippet, unlike the indoors that will keep the whole minute if it has any movement. It is battery powered, so that was the reason for my purchase. I don't have eves, nor do I have any good line of sight spots that I would want them. I will be getting one of the new ones, and assume that they will soon be available at Home Depot.