With D-Link’s ever expanding arsenal of Wi-Fi security cameras, today we bring to you another one of their new interations; the D-Link DCS-8302LH full HD weather resistance Pro Wi-Fi camera. What I like about D-Link is the fact that you get a wide range of products to choose from when it comes to security cameras depending on your budget and need. The DCS-8302LH lacks the extra illumination provided by spotlights like in the DCS-8630LH however comes equipped with few other goodies to tingle your interest.

Features and Specifications

Built-in Microphone :	Yes
Built-in Speaker :	Yes
Camera Advanced Feature :	Person Detection\|Siren built-in\|WPA3 Encryption\|IPv6 Ready
Indoor / Outdoor :	Indoor\|Outdoor
Power :	Included Power Supply
Camera Type :	Outdoor
Wireless Connectivity :	802.11n
Night Vision Range :	B&W 5m
Video Compression :	H.264
Digital Zoom :	Pinch to Zoom
Dimensions (Size) :	138 x 88 x 62 mm
ePTZ :	No
Ethernet Port :	Yes
Maximum Video Resolution :	1920 x 1080 @30fps
MicroSD Card Slot :	Yes
Motion Detection :	Yes
Motorised Pan / Tilt :	No
Warranty :	1-Year Limited Warranty
Smart Home Compatible :	Amazon Alexa\|Google Assistant\|mydlink
Sound Detection :	Yes
Two-way Audio :	Yes
Video Recording Option :	microSD Card\|mydlink Cloud Subscription\|ONVIF Profile S

Closer Look

The DCS-8302LH comes in the standard packaging we’re accustomed to seeing in most of their other camera offerings. It’s simple yet elegant and gives all the information required for a consumer.

Installation

One of the biggest positive aspects with D-Link Wi-Fi cameras is their simple installation process. All you require is the mydlink app on your phone, scan the QR code on the device and viola, you’re done. The actual time consuming part is figuring out the best location to place the DCS-8302LH and securing it in place. The unit is weather resistant for outdoor use allowing you wider installation options without damaging it to the elements.

Features

Like its siblings, the DCS-8302LH packs a neat set of features. The AI based person detection is certainly a step forward when it comes to motion detection and it’s a feature that sets these cameras apart from cheaper alternatives. Around 90% of false positives are no longer triggered due to this, however during extreme weather events we still do see the camera falsely detecting tree movement as human. This is a minor inconvenience given the vast improvement we see overall.

The DCS-8302LH is capable of recording in Full HD 1080p resolution at 30 fps and has a wide 135-degree field of vision. The wide FOV means you’ll capture a lot of surrounding footage, however it’ll compromise on detail if needed to focus on certain objects. There’s no one size fits all setup when it comes to security cameras, and the placement of them should be done taking these into consideration.

The camera comes with a built-in 95 dB speaker with siren function to deter any intruders off or scare away your neighbors cat if needed. The 2 way speaker system comes in very handy, especially now in this pandemic environment. Dealing with deliveries or contactless sales has never been easier allowing you to talk to the other party visually without having to open a door.

One new feature we haven’t seen in previous models is that the DCS-8302LH comes not only with Wi-Fi capability but Ethernet as well. If you want lower latency and make use of ONVIF Profile S recording Ethernet connectivity is the way to go. Only gripe I have here is that D-Link didn’t include POE capability which would have been a definite plus when using Ethernet. The DCS-8302LH Supports cloud / microSD (max. 256 GB) recording as well as storing on a compatible NAS via ONVIF Profile S.

The camera works well with Google Assistant and Alexa on compatible devices and it does a good job at it. Some may find this functionality useful, however I find that using the app much faster as I always have my phone on me. Nevertheless the functionality exists if you wish to make use of it, even if its for bragging rights.

Conclusion

The DCS-8302LH retails for AU$199.95 placing it in the mid range price bracket. Given the functionality offered and the fact that it’s backed by an industry giant where you’re assured of future support as well, the overall package combined makes this a good piece of kit to get your hands on. We have been using the camera outdoors for a few weeks now and it hasn’t missed a beat even though it has been exposed to all the elements in Melbourne’s unpredictable weather. If you’re looking for a quick and easy setup without the complexities of hard wiring and easy expandability the DCS-8302LH is certainly a great option to look at.