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Dahua currently owns Lorex, and Amcrest is primarily a reseller of Dahua OEM products. As such, they have a lot in common.

  • Amcrest's product range is more extensive than Lorex. They also deal with niche products such as Fisheye and Thermal cameras.
  • Amcrest also emphasises the interoperability of their products. Most of their products are ONVIF and RTSP compatible.
  • Amcrest have recently established cloud storage solutions for their cameras. Lorex has not yet ventured into that space.
  • The Lorex mobile apps have a much better rating in the various app stores than Amcrest.
  • Neither Lorex nor Amcrest products are NDAA compliant. It is due to their connection to Dahua.

Lorex vs Amcrest Security Cameras (2025) at a Glance

High-End PoE Turret Head to Head

Mid-Range Wi-Fi Bullet Head to Head

Mid-Range Wire Free Bullet Head to Head

High-End PTZ Head to Head

Video Doorbell Head to Head

Lorex vs Amcrest Security Cameras (2025) Overview

Lorex was founded in Canada in 1992. They have a wide range of security cameras all tied together with video recorders and smart hubs. They were acquired by Dahua in 2018.

Amcrest was founded in 2016 by Foscam US with a similar product offering to Lorex. Due to some commercial disputes, it now primarily resells Dahua OEM products.

Year Founded
1991
2013
Customer Focus
Business Leaning
Mix of Business & Consumer
Aggregate App Reviews
3.6/5
2.25/5
Cloud Platform Name
-
Amcrest Smart Home Cloud
Cloud Subscription Features
-
Cloud StorageSmart / AI NotificationsRich App PreviewsAdvanced App Features
Cloud Subscription Costs
-
Motion Recording 7-day $6 /Camera per month 14-day $10 /Camera per month 30-day $15 /Camera per month 60-day $23 /Camera per month 90-day $27.50 /Camera per month Continious Recording 7-day $9 /Camera per month 14-day $15 /Camera per month 30-day $20 /Camera per month 60-day $27.50 /Camera per month 90-day $35 /Camera per month
Note: PoE & Coax cameras typically require a connected NVR, DVR or surveillance software package (like Blue Iris) to gain access to desktop, mobile or browser apps along with availing of Intelligent Video Surveillance (IVS) Features. The specs below are based on integration with the manufacturers recommended NVR / DVR.

High-End PoE Turret Head to Head

Key Differences

The Amcrest IP8M-VT2879EW-AI is a little more costly than Lorex LNE9292B. It offers true wide dynamic range (WDR) compared to the HDR on the Lorex cam, which provides better image clarity in poor lighting conditions.

Lorex offers full color night vision for improved night time surveillance. Lorex only has an NVR storage option while Amcrest also has a back-up MicroSD card slot and supports NAS, FTP, and optional cloud storage.

Amcrest is highly compatible with 3rd party devices such as Blue Iris via RTSP, CGI, and Peer-to-Peer protocols. It also has face detection features with an optical zoom of 5x magnification compared to Lorex’s 4x.

Amcrest can be operated using mobile, desktop, or browser apps. Audio systems and alarms can interface externally with it. The Lorex cam needs to be connected to an NVR to access the various apps.

Price
Storage Options
NVR
microSDNVRNASFTPCloud
Interoperability
-
QNAPBlue IrisRTSPCGIP2P
Smart Motion Detection Features
Person DetectionVehicle Detection
Person DetectionVehicle DetectionFace Detection
Optical Zoom Magnification
4x
5x
Apps
AndroidiOSWindowsMacBrowser App

Key Features in Common

Both Lorex and Amcrest are turret cameras with wired PoE data and DC power connections. These cameras can be placed both indoors and outdoors with an IP67 rating.

Both cameras have an integrated microphone however two-way audio communication is not possible.

The cameras have a 4K Ultra HD resolution with a motorized lens and 1/2.8” image sensor. Both cameras have night vision with infrared light covering at least 98ft in total darkness. Neither camera has a spotlight.

Continuous recording is supported by the camera with a max 30fps frame rate. The camera supports two video streams to the NVR. Motion detection features are supported along with motion alerts that send out push notifications.

Case Type(s)
Turret
Turret
Camera Location
IndoorOutdoor
IndoorOutdoor
Data Type
IP
IP
Camera Wire Type
Wired Data & Power
Wired Data & Power
Power Options
PoEDC Power
PoEDC Power
Data Transmission
PoE
PoE
Integrated Microphone
Yes
Yes
Integrated Siren / Alarm
No
No
Resolution
4K / Ultra HD / 8MP: 3840x2160
4K / Ultra HD / 8MP: 3840x2160
Image Sensor Size
1/2.8"
1/2.8"
Lens Type
Motorized
Motorized
Night Vision Functionality
Yes
Yes
Night Vision Type
InfraredFull Color (via Low Light Sensor / Tech)
InfraredFull Color (via Low Light Sensor / Tech)
IP Rating
IP67
IP67
Motorized Pan Feature
No
No
Motorized Tilt Feature
No
No
Optical Zoom Feature
Yes
Yes

Mid-Range Wi-Fi Bullet Head to Head

Key Differences

Right off the bat, the Lorex camera has several attractive features. For instance, it supports two-way audio, siren and a spotlight for active deterrence.

The Amcrest camera unfortunately, doesn’t support any of these features. However, one thing it’s got going for it is the 98ft infrared range. The Lorex camera can only do 32ft maximum.

The Amcrest camera supports optional cloud storage. The Lorex camera does not. It makes up for it by including a 32GB MicroSD card right out of the box.

Futureproof features are another big concern. The Lorex camera supports 5GHz Wi-Fi. It also supports human, vehicle and animal detection.

The Amcrest camera supports 2.4GHz and human detection only.

Price
Data Transmission
2.4GHz WiFi5GHz WiFi
2.4GHz WiFi
Integrated Siren / Alarm
Yes
No
Image Sensor Size
1/3"
1/2.7"
Night Vision Functionality
Yes
No
Night Vision Type
InfraredFull Color (via Spotlight)Full Color (via Low Light Sensor / Tech)
Infrared
Storage Options
microSD
microSDNVRNASCloud
Interoperability
-
RTSP
Smart Motion Detection Features
Person DetectionVehicle DetectionAnimal Detection
Person Detection
IP Rating
IP65
IP67
Smart Integrations
AlexaGoogle AssistantChromecastApple TV
Alexa
Apps
AndroidiOS
AndroidiOS

Key Features in Common

Despite these differences, both cameras record at the same resolution of 2560x1440. Both devices can also record audio into the video footage.

They also share similar FOVs. The Lorex camera has a 114° diagonal FOV, whereas Amcrest has 125°.

Both share weather-resistant IP ratings. The Lorex camera is IP65-rated, and the Amcrest takes it up a notch with almost watertight IP67. Whatever the case, either option is more than ready for outdoor installations.

The Amcrest and Lorex cameras don’t need an NVR to function. They can interface with their corresponding mobile apps. For on-site storage, they can rely on MicroSD.

Case Type(s)
Bullet
Bullet
Camera Location
IndoorOutdoor
IndoorOutdoor
Data Type
IP
IP
Camera Wire Type
Wireless Data & Wired Power
Wireless Data & Wired Power
Power Options
DC Power
DC Power
Integrated Microphone
Yes
Yes
Resolution
4MP: 2560x1440
4MP: 2560x1440
Lens Type
Fixed Focus
Fixed Focus
Motorized Pan Feature
No
No
Motorized Tilt Feature
No
No
Optical Zoom Feature
No
No

Mid-Range Wire Free Bullet Head to Head

Key Differences

For this comparison, there are some noticeable differences. For instance, the Lorex camera records at 2K resolution of 2650x1440. Meanwhile, the Amcrest camera only records at standard HD, which is 1920x1080.

Both devices are battery-powered. However, for the Lorex camera, you can extend the battery life via solar panels or a separate battery pack. The Amcrest camera doesn’t support these options.

That said, the Amcrest camera is more lightweight. It can last up to six months with minimal use of motion detection.

For storage and app control, the Amcrest camera needs to link up with a home hub. The hub also acts as the footage drop-off point via USB.

The Lorex camera can store footage on-device with a MicroSD card. It can then interface directly with its companion app. It doesn't need an NVR or home base.

Also, the Amcrest camera has other limitations. It doesn’t support person detection, color night vision or a spotlight. The Lorex camera does include these features.

Price
Power Options
Battery
DC PowerBattery
Data Transmission
2.4GHz WiFi5GHz WiFi
2.4GHz WiFi
Integrated Siren / Alarm
Yes
No
Resolution
4MP: 2560x1440
2MP: 1080P / HD: 1920x1080
Image Sensor Size
1/3"
1/2.7"
Night Vision Type
InfraredFull Color (via Low Light Sensor / Tech)
Infrared
Storage Options
-
CloudUSB Flash Drive
Smart Motion Detection Features
Person Detection
Person DetectionVehicle Detection
IP Rating
IP66
IP65
Apps
AndroidiOS
AndroidiOS

Key Features in Common

Fortunately, there are certain similarities. Both devices include a microphone and speaker combo for two-way communication. They can also record audio and stitch them into the video footage.

Both cameras are also outdoor-friendly. The Lorex camera features an IP66-rated enclosure, and the Amcrest an IP65-rated one.

They’re not particularly water-proof. However, you can set them up outdoors under eaves or ceilings without issues.

Also, the FOV of both cameras are quite similar. The Lorex camera has a 120° horizontal FOV, whereas Amcrest boasts 110°. It's wide-enough for home security and general-surveillance.

Case Type(s)
Bullet
Bullet
Camera Location
IndoorOutdoor
IndoorOutdoor
Data Type
IP
IP
Camera Wire Type
Wireless Data & Battery Power
Wireless Data & Battery Power
Integrated Microphone
Yes
Yes
Lens Type
Fixed Focus
Fixed Focus
Night Vision Functionality
Yes
Yes
Motorized Pan Feature
No
No
Motorized Tilt Feature
No
No
Optical Zoom Feature
No
No

High-End PTZ Head to Head

Key Differences

Lorex LZV2925SC is a camera with coax cable data transmission. Its competitor Amcrest IP4M-1083EW-AI is an IP data with PoE data transmission.

Lorex has only DC power while Amcrest supports both DC and PoE power connections. Amcrest can carry a two-way audio conversation by interfacing with an external audio system. It also has a higher 4MP (vs 2MP) camera and a higher optical zoom of 32x (vs 25x) magnification.

Lorex has full-color (requires ambient lighting) and infrared night vision that can be stored on a DVR. Amcrest has a backup MicroSD slot along with NVR, NAS, FTP support along with optional cloud storage. Lorex supports a maximum of 30fps with digital WDR/HDR while Amcrest supports 25fps with true WDR feature.

Amcrest can connect to 3rd party devices using Blue Iris, ONVIF, RTSP, and CGI protocols. It can detect a person, face, vehicle, non-motor vehicle, and object which shows its intelligence. It is available for mobile, web, and browser apps.

Lorex needs to be connected to a DVR for remote access via mobile and desktop apps.

Price
Data Type
Analog
IP
Power Options
DC Power
PoEDC Power
Data Transmission
Coax
PoE
Resolution
2MP: 1080P / HD: 1920x1080
4MP: 2560x1440
Storage Options
DVR
microSDNVRNASFTPCloud
Interoperability
-
Blue IrisONVIFRTSPCGI
Smart Motion Detection Features
-
Person DetectionVehicle DetectionNon-Motor Vehicle DetectionFace DetectionObject Detection
IP Rating
IP66
IP67
Optical Zoom Magnification
25x
32x
Apps
AndroidiOS
AndroidiOSWindowsMacBrowser App

Key Features in Common

Both Lorex and Amcrest cameras are PTZ cameras having 360° pan and motorized 90° tilt angles. They have PTZ tour, present, scan, and pattern features. Digital zoom of 16x magnification is also available.

Both cameras have a wired data and power connection. They have a motorized lens with a ½.8” image sensor.

They have motion-activated and continuous recording features. Motion detection features are present in both cameras. In fact, when there is a motion, an alert is sent via push notification to the app.

Both cameras have an advanced digital noise reduction property to eliminate noise from the feed. Neither night vision camera has an integrated spotlight

Case Type(s)
PTZ
PTZ
Camera Location
IndoorOutdoor
IndoorOutdoor
Camera Wire Type
Wired Data & Power
Wired Data & Power
Integrated Microphone
No
No
Integrated Siren / Alarm
No
No
Image Sensor Size
1/2.8"
1/2.8"
Lens Type
Motorized
Motorized
Night Vision Functionality
Yes
Yes
Night Vision Type
InfraredFull Color (via Low Light Sensor / Tech)
InfraredFull Color (via Low Light Sensor / Tech)
Motorized Pan Feature
Yes
Yes
Motorized Tilt Feature
Yes
Yes
Optical Zoom Feature
Yes
Yes

Video Doorbell Head to Head

Key Differences

The video doorbells of both brands feature only minor differences. However, they tend to make or break this decision.

One of the main differences is cloud storage. The Lorex camera doesn’t feature cloud storage and relies on MicroSD as onsite storage. However, you can also connect the video doorbell wirelessly to a Lorex fusion NVR.

The Amcrest device supports optional cloud storage and MicroSD.

The Lorex camera does take the lead with two nifty features. These are the chime kit and nightlight feature. The chime kit makes it so you can hear anybody at the door. You don't always have to reach for your smartphone.

The nightlight can act as an active deterrent. Also, it can help light your path or shine a light to help you fish out your door keys.

Price
Camera Location
IndoorOutdoor
Indoor
Integrated Siren / Alarm
Yes
No
Resolution
2K: 2560x1920
5MP: 2560x1920
Storage Options
microSDNVR
microSD
Interoperability
-
RTSPCGIP2P
Smart Integrations
AlexaGoogle AssistantFire TV
-
Apps
AndroidiOS
AndroidiOS

Key Features in Common

These video doorbells share several key similarities. For starters, both record at 2K-ish resolution of 2560x1920.

They also share the same diagonal FOV of 164° and are IP65-rated for weather-resistance.

Finally, both support 5GHz Wi-Fi and serviceable color night vision technology.

Case Type(s)
Video Doorbell
Video Doorbell
Data Type
IP
IP
Camera Wire Type
Wireless Data & Wired Power
Wireless Data & Wired Power
Power Options
DC PowerAC Power
DC PowerAC Power
Data Transmission
2.4GHz WiFi5GHz WiFi
2.4GHz WiFi5GHz WiFi
Integrated Microphone
Yes
Yes
Lens Type
Fixed Focus
Fixed Focus
Night Vision Functionality
Yes
Yes
Night Vision Type
Infrared
Infrared
Smart Motion Detection Features
Person Detection
Person Detection
IP Rating
IP65
IP65
Motorized Pan Feature
No
No
Motorized Tilt Feature
No
No
Optical Zoom Feature
No
No

The Lorex vs Amcrest Security Cameras (2025) - Verdict

Despite both having Dahua as the product manufacturer, both brands have unique characteristics that make them stand out from each other.

Let us know in the comments which brand you prefer and why!

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