Uncomfortable with being in a bad neighborhood or naughty kids next-door? This is the right time for you to start considering buying a security camera. And if this is your first time looking for one, you will likely find yourself in the middle of choosing between Lorex and Swann. Both brands offer some of the best security cameras in the market, and unsurprisingly got compared quite often. Either way, let’s see what both of them are all about, and what is their strength compared to the other. Swann vs Lorex is on!
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Swann vs Lorex: What Is The Difference between Two Surveillance Camera
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Brand History
Founded in 1993, Lorex is based in Markham, Ontario, Canada. Other than that, they also have secondary headquarters in Linthicum, Maryland, USA. Back in 2012, FLIR acquired Lorex in a $60 million deal. The acquisition aimed to lower FLIR’s cost of thermal imaging and opening it up to the retail market. Partnered with Dahua, FLIR tried to get their footing on the SMB and DIY camera markets for the next 6 years. FLIR’s quest ended in 2018 after they decided to sell Lorex to Dahua.
Meanwhile, Swann took its shape 6 years before Lorex was even a thing. David Swann spearheaded its creation in his modest family garage in Australia. After a few years, Swann’s international presence grew across 40 countries. Near the end of 2014, Infonova Group bought Swann for around $87.5 million. The acquisition enables Swann of entering the high-end sector. Like how Lorex connected to Dahua, Swann’s also has its tie to Hikvision. Former names in the latter’s brand pairing are mostly rebranded Hikvisions cameras.
Camera Options
Like other technology products, a security camera also has several models with different specifications. The more variety in the brand’s product line up, the better the consumer will be able to pick one which suits best. This culminates to the question: “Which one has a wider array of models in Lorex vs Swann battle?”
Although Swann has a line up of over 100 indoor and outdoor cameras, Lorex is still better on this matter. The latter offers larger options for cameras and systems. This includes greater than 1080-pixels cameras, such as 5MP and 4K ones. Other than that, Lorex is also available in various designs and functionality.
Deterrence Features
Lorex and Swann are more or less equal in the number and qualities of their deterrence features. They’re equipped with features such as light and sirens in some models of their cameras. These features will provide more sense of security. You can activate it to stop unwanted visitors and alert the authorities.
Storage Options
Both brands provide local and cloud storage options in their line-ups. On Lorex’s cameras, the storage options vary based on the chosen standalone camera or system. Some of their cameras allow cloud storage, while the rest only provide a local one.
On the other side, Swann provides five plans for its storage options. The options ranging from free of charge to an annual plan which costs $49.99 every year.
Setup
Lorex’s wireless and battery-powered cameras come with very basic setup methods. As an example, you’re only required to scan the QR codes on your device to add them to the security network. With this, you shouldn’t have any difficulties installing them yourself. Though, you might need professional help for the installation of its wired versions.
Compared to Lorex, Swann is mostly focusing on ‘do it yourself’ security systems. Needless to say, this will have you doing more works in installation and monitoring.
Monitoring and Recording Access
Lorex provides the owner of its products with its very own in-house mobile app. With compatible iOS or Android device, you’re able to view different angles, pan, tilt, and zoom through it. Besides, you can also get real-time alerts that will provide live info on what’s going on in front of the camera’s lens.
Swann also comes with something similar in form of the SwannOne mobile app. This app allows you to control Swann security cameras through a smartphone or tablet. Furthermore, SwannOne includes several options, such as video streaming and energy usage monitoring.
Professional Monitoring
Swann is the only one that offers professional monitoring subscriptions. The subscription itself comes at $19.99 for the Monthly Pro. Monitoring Plan, and $149.88 for Annual Pro. Monitoring Plan.
Trial Period
Hate to beat around the bush when you’re not satisfied with your security camera? Worry not, Lorex offers easier refund administration with its 60-days trial period.
Meanwhile, Swann doesn’t specify a trial period for its customers. You’ll have to show your transaction receipt and wait for your tested camera to be approved for a refund. Quite bothersome if you’re the type of person who prefers a quick refunding process.
Price
If you’re tight on budget and yet still longing for a decent enough security camera, Swann is the go-to option. It’s possible to find a Swann camera with proper features for less than $100.
Offering a wider range of cameras options and a trial period, it’s natural that Lorex won’t be any cheaper. This is especially true when you’re looking for a model with a DVR or NVR system for storage.
Swann vs Lorex: Comparison Table
| Lorex | Swann | |
| Brand History | Founded in 1993, acquired by FLIR and partnered with Dahua | Founded in 1987, acquired by Infonova Group and partnered with Hikvision |
| Camera | Over 100 options for both indoor and outdoor | Limited options, but offering high-quality cameras (such as 1080K and above) |
| Deterrence | Light, sirens, connect to authority, realtime alert | Light, sirens, connect to authority, realtime alert |
| Storage | Local and Cloud | Local and Cloud (with 5 options of annual plan – from free to $49.99) |
| Setup | QR code scanning | User manual |
| Mobile App | Yes, compatible with iOS and Android devices | Yes, compatible with iOS and Android devices |
| Professional Monitoring | No | Yes, with annual plans |
| Trial Period | 60 days, money back guaranteed | Not specified, refund policies applied |
Conclusion
To sum it all, Swann is better suited for home usage while Lorex is better for business. Despite being a bit more difficult to set up, Swann’s camera offers decent services once it’s up and running. Couple that with its cheaper average price, you’ll get reliable extra eyes around your property.
Lorex compensates for its higher average price with high-quality products. They also offer flexibility in designing a suitable CCTV system for the business environment. Not to mention, they’re easier to install, thus taking less time to start doing their job. As icing on the cake, Lorex provides a 60-day guarantee of full money return if you’re not satisfied. A perfect combination for any businesses that want to buy surveillance cameras.
Either way, the winner between Lorex vs Swannis about adjusting your needs. Try to pick the most suitable option when you ever need a surveillance camera!
Last update on 2020-11-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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