The Blink Outdoor Camera has a lot going for it, and while it’s not a massive upgrade or a particularly innovative device, it’s excellent for Alexa owners who value data privacy with a solid and reliable device. If you’re looking for a smart camera with HD resolution, long battery life, and a reasonable price tag, the Blink Outdoor Camera won’t disappoint.

Key Takeaways

The Blink Outdoor Security Camera isn’t a leap ahead of the competition, but it is a solid smart camera with an attractive price tag. With the addition of local storage and 1080p HD, it hasn’t redefined its predecessor but remains a quality buy, nonetheless.

Similar to the XT2, With More Variety

If you own the original Blink Home Security Camera, the first thing you’ll notice is that not much has changed, albeit a change from white to black. The original Blink design, shape, and dimensions remain the same.

The Blink Outdoor Camera is also available as a two-camera starter kit, three-camera, five cameras, and an add-on camera—which is just the Outdoor camera alone.

Compatible With Alexa and IFTTT

IFTTT is also an excellent addition, with hundreds—if not thousands—of automation options called “applets.” With IFTTT, you have a ton of freedom to set up Blink Outdoor Camera applets to effortlessly control how and when it records.

Expandable Four-Year Battery Pack

As a response to security cameras moving towards longer-lasting battery life, Blink will soon release its four-year battery pack addition to replace the two-year pack that comes with the camera.

Two years is a long time, and with the four-year improvement, Blink is introducing extreme longevity as an attractive feature with its Blink Outdoor Camera.

Simple Installation and Setup

Part of Blink’s appeal is the ease of use and simple steps for installing and physically setting up the camera. The Blink Outdoor Camera is no exception.

  • Start by downloading the Blink Home Monitor app—which is available on both the Google Play Store and the App Store for iOS users.On the back of the Sync Module is a QR code, which you’ll scan directly from the app.Create a name for the new sync module and plug it in to get it in pairing mode.From there, you’ll add the Sync Module to your Wi-Fi network, which is as simple as tapping the Sync Module when it shows up on the app.Once your camera is powered up, add the device by selecting the + symbol in the app, selecting your camera, scanning the QR code on the back of the camera’s battery pack, and adding it.

Installing the camera is just as simple. All of the hardware necessary for mounting the camera comes in the starter kit. Choose a spot, screw in the mounting hardware, and the Blink Outdoor Camera neatly snaps on. It has a solid connection and leaves little doubt that it will hold steady, even in inclement weather.

Great Features and Performance

The biggest upgrade over the original indoor camera is the 1080p HD view. Images are sharper and well-defined, and gone is the sometimes fuzzy, outdated view of the original.

The Blink Outdoor Camera has a 110-degree viewing angle, which is more than enough to cover a targeted area. However, know that if you’re looking to view a lengthy backyard, 110 degrees may fall short.

The batteries work as advertised, giving EufyCams—known for their extremely long battery life—a run for their money.

Not a Significant Upgrade Over Previous Models

One issue that didn’t make a significant jump from the original is the low-power mode. The camera stays in this mode until movement activates it, and it takes a moment to start recording. Unfortunately, movement on the edges or something passing through quickly can be hit or miss.

Hub Is Required

Router manufacturers will either have to pack more and more Ethernet ports into their devices, or the development of smart devices will have to change. The Blink Outdoor Camera, unfortunately, requires a hub—which is fine until it isn’t.

If you own many smart devices that require hubs, the Blink Outdoor Camera may be one too many, so it’s worth considering before making a purchase.

No Support for Apple HomeKit or Google Assistant

Doesn’t Come with an Alarm

Also, the Blink Outdoor Camera lacks an alarm. This isn’t a huge issue, as it’s not uncommon with affordable options for outdoor security cameras, but it is a feature that’s more and more prevalent and one that should have made the final cut.

A Subscription is Required for Some Features

Another downside: users may have to purchase a subscription to access certain features with the Blink Outdoor Camera.

You can use Blink Outdoor Cameras without a subscription, but you’ll lose the option to access cloud storage. Blink eliminated the free cloud storage that came with the XT2.

However, local storage is now an alternative for saving your camera footage. Unfortunately, that does come with a caveat: no USB Drive out of the box. If you want local storage, you’ll have to purchase a USB Drive separately.

Final Thoughts