Reolink Altas PT Ultra Review: Is Continuous Recording True?

Reolink has introduced several battery-powered Wi-Fi security cameras, most of which have proven robust and high-performing. However, due to fierce competition in the battery camera market, Reolink has taken a step forward.

Many users of battery security cameras complain about their inability to record continuously. Due to their limited battery capacity, most battery-powered security cameras only start recording when motion is detected within their field of view. With the launch of the new Reolink Altas PT Ultra (Some other sources might mistakenly refer to it as the Reolink Atlas PT Ultra), Reolink users can now enjoy a continuous-recording security camera with a large battery capacity and pre-record options. Keep reading as we test some of the main features of this new product!

Reolink Altas PT Ultra Overview

When I opened the product box, I was surprised to find that the new Altas PT Ultra (instead of Atlas PT Ultra for sure) has a completely different design from other battery PT cameras like the Argus PT and Argus PT Ultra. It seems Reolink has put a lot of effort into its product design. For instance, in mid-June, we saw a significant upgrade with the Argus 4 Pro, which looks entirely different from other products in the Argus series.

The Altas PT Ultra features the basic design of a dome-style PT camera and currently only comes in white. What sets this design apart is its combination of a large lens aperture and an advanced image sensor in a single device, which is noticeable when you look at the lens.

I found the following items inside the product box, similar to those included with other products.

• Camera
• Security Bracket
• Mounting Hole Template
• Pack of Screws
• QSG
• Surveillance Sticker
• USB-C Cable
• Strap

Installation and Setup

I like the installation process of Reolink battery-powered cameras. There are two options: wall or ceiling. Since I wanted to use this camera for my backyard, I followed the Quick Start Guide (QSG), taped the template where I wanted to mount the camera, and drilled some holes for the mounting bracket. But remember to charge the battery first before starting the installation process.

The Reolink app is required for the initial setup. Like the Argus 4 Pro, this camera supports Bluetooth networking. Let the Reolink app access Bluetooth and location permissions, then turn on Bluetooth. Once the Bluetooth connection is established, select your Wi-Fi network and enter the password. The camera will then connect to the Internet, and you can complete the other configurations.

4K Image Quality

The Altas PT Ultra also joins Reolink's 4K battery lineup. I tested the video quality both during the day and at night. The 4K resolution shows rich details in bright sunlight, with excellent color contrast. I can see details up to 30 feet away, and the digital zoom allows for even further viewing.

At night, thanks to ColorX technology, this camera provides full-color footage without visible spotlights (Keep in mind that the camera can’t provide full-color footage in completely dark environments. It needs some light to work. For instance, when I tested it, my neighbors’ lights are on but the lights are some distances away). The footage is generally clear compared to other battery-powered cameras on the market. In extremely dark environments, the spotlights will activate to enhance night vision capability.

Battery Capacity for Continuous Recording

Reolink claims that this camera has a long-lasting battery for continuous recording, so I checked the product specifications. The battery capacity of the Reolink Altas PT Ultra is 20,000mAh, which is much larger than that of other Reolink battery cameras. For example, the Argus 4 Pro only has a 5,000mAh rechargeable battery.

Before installation, I fully charged the battery and set up continuous recording for 12 hours a day, the battery can last more than a week—up to 8 days.

Note: I set it for 12-hour recording a day because the promotional video accurately states ‘8+ days of 4K Continuous Recording’.

The 6W and 12W Reolink solar panels can also charge the battery. After the first battery drain, I connected a 6W solar panel to it. It's worth mentioning that the solar panel is not included in the product box, so you'll need to purchase it separately.

I also tested the battery life under motion-triggered mode. The new point about this battery camera is its pre-record functionality. Reolink claims, "With a new generation of System-on-Chip (SoC), this camera can capture 10s of valuable footage before an event happens." So I opened up the pre-record via the app and walked through the camera range, trying to trigger a motion event. When I checked for the stored footage, the recording had about 10 seconds more content, which recorded the short period before I walked into the frame.

Auto-Tracking and Pan & Tilt

The Altas PT Ultra gets its name for the enhanced PT functionality (Also, keep in mind that this camera lineup is not called Reolink Atlas, even though the spelling is quite similar).

Like the Argus PT Ultra, it can pan 355° and tilt 90°. It provides a nearly 360-degree view without blind spots. Reolink claims this camera can automatically track movements within its field of view and detect people, vehicles, and animals.

I set the detection sensitivity to maximum, enabled motion-triggered mode, and tested its response time. The camera notified me within seconds when I walked through the detection zone. After adjusting the angle to face the road, it notified me when a car approached. However, the tracking feature can get confused by two vehicles moving in different directions. Still, no AI can perfectly handle that situation. I like the auto-tracking feature, and it's the best PT camera I've ever had.

Local Storage and Home Hub

In my opinion, the best feature of Reolink security cameras is their local storage options. Whether a PoE camera or a battery-powered one, all models have an SD card slot for local data storage. The new Altas PT Ultra also supports local storage with SD cards. Since I have a Home Hub, I connected the camera to it. The Reolink Home Hub supports up to two 512GB microSD cards. Additionally, the camera supports NAS and RTSP protocols when connected to the Home Hub.

Reolink Altas PT Ultra: Pros and Cons

After testing all the useful features, I've summarized this camera's best features and some areas that still need improvement.

Pros:

• Long-lasting battery and capable of continuous recording
• 4K resolution with great detail
• Full-color night vision without relying on visible spotlights
• PT functionality for a wider field of view
• It is completely subscription-free and supports local storage

Cons:

• It has a non-removable battery, so it must be charged inside the camera
• Solar panels must be purchased separately
• USB-C charging cable could be longer

Release Date and Availability

According to Reolink, the new Altas PT Ultra will be officially released Europe, North America and Australia markets at the September 25th 2024. You can purchase the model on Reolink's official website and at the Amazon store. To preview this model and its features, visit Reolink at IFA 2024. Reolink will showcase this camera at the event, where its team will be ready to introduce all its features. Don't miss out!

FAQs

How long does the Altas PT Ultra battery last?

It depends on the recording mode you've set up. The Reolink Altas PT Ultra comes with a 20,000 mAh battery, which is much larger than the batteries in most battery-powered models. The battery will last longer if you use motion-triggered mode. However, this camera also supports continuous recording, so if you choose this mode, the battery may not last as long as expected.

Does the Reolink Altas PT Ultra need a SIM card?

No, not necessarily. The Reolink Altas PT Ultra works over 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi, so it doesn't need a SIM card for a cellular network connection.

Conclusion

After testing, I can confidently say that the Reolink Altas PT Ultra is an excellent battery-powered security camera with impressive battery life. It supports continuous recording and delivers flawless 4K image quality daily and night. The night vision capability is particularly significant, and I love its integration with the Home Hub. However, I wish the USB-C charging cable were longer, and it's a bit inconvenient that I must purchase a solar panel separately.