What’s RTSP IP Camera & Best RTSP IP Cameras Buying Guide

Imagine that you could live stream video from your IP camera on your media player or VLC player even thousand miles away. How come? Well, technically, it’s all because of RTSP embedded in your RTSP IP cameras. Today, we shed light on RTSP and help you understand what RTSP is and its applications on surveillance.

What’s an RTSP IP Camera

RTSP stands for Real Time Streaming Protocol, a network protocol for streaming the videos in real-time.

Figuratively, RTSP acts as a rail track for transporting videos data from point A (camera) to point B (VLC Player/RTSP viewers/RTSP Client or software).

In such sense, an RTSP IP camera is capable of streaming live videos on RTSP-compatible media players such as VLC media player, QuickTime.

When IP cameras support RTSP and ONVIF, users could use RTSP camera viewers/software such as IP Cam Viewer, iSpy or web browsers to view live video stream easily without using its companion mobile apps or desktop software.

Meanwhile, users can use Apple TV or Chromecast to view RTSP IP video stream on TV thanks to RTSP streaming protocol.

How to Stream IP Camera Videos on RTSP-Compatible Players like VLC Player

The VLC player can virtually decode any video format (encoding schemes) such as MJPEG, MPEG1, MPEG2, MPEG4 (Type 2) and H.264.

In order to view live video feeds on an RTSP-enabled media player, like VLC Player, users need to establish the link by getting your IP cameras RTSP stream URL first and configuring the media player a bit.

The IP camera’s RTSP URL usually contains some basic elements, such as username, password, IP camera’s IP address, port number (the default RTSP port number is 554), or stream type (for example H.264, MPEG-4, MPEG4).

Different IP cameras come with different RTSP URL and many IP camera RTSP URL addresses are provided by manufacturers or can be found online, while some shares similar RTSP URLs.

How to Find IP Camera RTSP URL

Because IP cameras RTSP URL is not standardized. Different manufacturers might provide different RTSP URL for their IP security cameras.

Some IP security camera manufacturers provide their IP camera RTSP URL addresses on their user manual, while others don’t.

One effective and time-efficient solution to find out your IP camera RTSP stream URL is to consult the manufacturer or the Tech Support.

For example, Reolink IP camera users can always head straight to Reolink Tech Support for your Reolink IP camera’s RTSP URL.

Another possible solution is to use tools or RTSP URL Finder to identify your IP camera RTSP URL, such as Wireshark. To get the IP camera's RTSP URL with Wireshark, run the software on your computer and apply the filter "rtsp" to locate the URL.

Here is one video showing how to use Wireshark to find IP cameras' RSTP URL:

Potential Pitfalls

RTSP IP cameras enable users to stream live video feeds on an RTSP compatible players, Windows RTSP player, Chrome, IE web browser, RTSP software, or RTSP Client.

However, the convenience of RTSP can lead to serious problems if being used improperly.

For example, some IP cameras were hacked and live footage from homes is being streamed or watched by strangers because some IP cameras shares similar RTSP stream URL and some users are forgetful or indiscreet about their username and password.

To prevent your IP cameras from being hacked and footage being watched, users need to take some safeguards to secure your network.

For example, changing your IP camera account name and creating a strong account password during setup. Besides, if your IP camera is connected to your home router, one way to fend off any potential attack or hacking is to enable WPA2-based encryption. Updating IP camera/NVR firmware on a regular basis helps as well.

Best RTSP IP Cameras Reviews & Recommendations

There are tons of security cameras or systems out there. Choosing the right and secure RTSP IP cameras is overwhelming. Today, we list out some best-reviewed and well-received indoor & outdoor IP cameras support RTSP.

Decent & Cheap Outdoor RTSP PoE IP Camera - RLC-810A

Reolink RLC-810A, a 8MP UHD PoE security camera, is one of the best-selling IP RTSP cameras with IR night vision on the Reolink website. With a motion sensor and IR night vision, this camera detects movement and trigger notification to mobile devices in real-time. It also supports RTSP and streams H.264 format HD videos.

With Reolink apps and desktop software, you can stream live videos effortlessly. Or you can stream live videos from RLC-510A on RTSP-enabled devices, such as Blue Iris, a VLC player.

Budget Outdoor RTSP Outdoor WiFi Camera - RLC-811WA

RLC-811WA is one of best-rated outdoor WiFi security cameras, 4K UHD camera packed with color night vision and a waterproof housing body.

Affordable and decent, this WiFi security camera offers SD card option for motion-triggered recordings and supports 2.4/5G WiFi. It supports RTSP and streams 8MP videos in real-time on Reolink apps or Client, as well as on RTSP-supported devices.

Best Outdoor RTSP Home Security Camera System - RLK8-800B4

It’s a do-it-yourself (DIY) home security system and plug-and-play home security system; homeowners can install all the security cameras and the NVR all by themselves, even though you are a beginner.

Reolink RLK8-800B4 security camera system is the best bang for the buck IP 4 camera system. Its exceptional video quality and solid-built cameras and NVR make your investment worthwhile.

Here is a hands-on review of this IP camera system.

FAQs

Do all IP cameras support RTSP?

No, not all IP cameras support RTSP protocol. Many modern IP cameras do offer RTSP support, such as Reolink cameras, but you need to check the specifications or documentation of the model to confirm whether it supports RTSP functionality.

Is RTSP still being used?

Yes, RTSP is still widely used today, especially in streaming media and surveillance systems. It's an important protocol for streaming audio and video over the internet. At the same, RTSP is compatible with various devices and applications.

Should I use ONVIF or RTSP?

It depends on your specific security requirements and the compatibility of your devices. ONVIF is a standard protocol for IP-based security products. RTSP, on the other hand, is a streaming protocol commonly used for real-time video streaming.

Conclusion

RTSP cameras offer an efficient solution for real-time video streaming and surveillance needs. With their support for standard streaming protocols, they provide compatibility with a wide range of devices and software applications. What are your thoughts on RTSP cameras? Do you think they are useful? Share your thoughts with us in the comment section below!