WiFi security cameras are closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras that transmit videos and audio signals to wireless receivers (routers) through radio bands. Many wireless security cameras require at least one cable or wire to be powered on. Here, wireless refers to the transmission of video/audio signals.

Note: Reolink battery-powered cameras are truly wire-free and able to be charged via solar panels.

Pros and Cons of Wireless Security Cameras

  • Easy to install
  • More flexible
  • More portable
  • Possible WiFi interference from nearby devices
  • Risks of being hacked or stolen
  • More expensive

2.4Ghz VS 5.8Ghz

You may notice that there is two popular wireless (WiFi) security IP cameras on the market: 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz (5.8 GHz) wireless security cameras.

  • 2.4 GHz wireless security cameras transmit videos and audio signals via the 2.4 GHz band/frequency, which all routers support.
  • 5.8 GHz wireless security cameras transmit videos and audio signals via the 5.8 GHz band/frequency. It can stream video content with the high-speed 802.11ac protocol which is able to transmit at the speed of up to theoretically 750 Gbps. 5.8 GHz WiFi cameras are a new and hot trend in wireless security products.
  • Dual-band Wi-Fi IP cameras transmit videos and audio signals via the 2.4 GHz or 5 (5.8 GHz) band/frequency. With both bands/frequencies available, it can shift freely between 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz (5.8 GHz), avoiding signal interference/loss and offering more installation flexibility.

Pros and Cons of 2.4 GHz and 5.8 GHz

Band/Frequency

2.4 GHz

5.8 GHz

Channel

3 non-overlapping channels

23 non-overlapping channels

Range

Wider

Shorter

Interference

Higher

Lower

WiFi Penetration

Strong

Weak

Data Transfer Rate

Slower

Faster