Reolink Argus PT 5MP Review UK 2026
Quick verdict
Score: 6.7/10
Best for: Keeping an eye on your home, indoors or out
Not for: Buyers who want to avoid any subscription, unless it also records to local SD
Bottom line: A practical security camera (3K/5MP, solar charging) for home security, with phone alerts and colour night vision.
The Reolink Argus PT 5MP (D5KY) is a weatherproof outdoor PTZ setup with solar power, alongside local recording and AI-based motion and person detection. It is positioned as the Reolink security camera for homes that want wide coverage without constant wiring, thanks to 360° pan tilt and dual-band WiFi. Performance is dependent on sunlight and placement.
Key specifications
| Spec | What it covers Evidence |
|---|---|
| Sensor | 5MP "5MP" in title |
| Connectivity | Dual Band WiFi "Dual Band WiFi" |
| Storage | Local recording "Local Recording" |
Pros
- 3K/5MP video
- Colour night vision
- Solar charging with solar option
- Pan and tilt to follow movement
Cons
- Cloud recording and longer history usually need a paid subscription
- As a Wi-Fi camera, reliability depends on your home wireless signal at the mounting spot
- Wired power means it must be mounted near a socket or hardwired
Video Quality and Resolution
Video quality begins with the stated 5MP resolution, which sets the level of detail the camera can capture in both recorded clips and live viewing on a phone. The security camera positions the Argus PT as a 3K/5MP outdoor security camera, so the stored footage is intended to be sharper than lower-resolution options. Because it is a pan-and-tilt unit, composition matters, since wider coverage can reduce apparent detail on smaller subjects. The camera supports local recording, which helps keep clip quality consistent. Resolution is a clear strength, while fineness of motion detail is harder to judge.
Day and Night Vision
Day and night performance is central to the Argus PT 5MP's usefulness for outdoor monitoring, since lighting conditions can change over the course of the day. It is advertised with colour night vision, with the camera aiming to keep scenes more identifiable after dark. During daylight, it is set to rely on normal ambient light, with movement detection triggering local recording. At night, colour visibility depends on available illumination, such as streetlights or porch lamps. No specific night range, sensor type, or settings are provided, so results can vary by location and weather. For responsible use, recording should be limited to your own property boundaries to avoid capturing beyond your control.
Power and Placement
Power and placement matter for the Argus PT 5MP because it is an outdoor solar security camera. Its ability to keep operating reliably depends on the amount of sunlight it receives at the mounted location, so the installer should choose an area with consistent daylight and avoid shade from walls, trees, or porch roofs. The camera's weatherproof design also requires a mount position that can resist rain and dust. After fixing the camera in place, the installer should check the pan and tilt range to ensure the camera covers likely entry points. If available light is weak, performance may drop, so repositioning may be required.
Storage and Subscription
When planning the Argus PT 5MP's setup, storage and subscription choices affect both convenience and cost, and they also determine how quickly clips can be viewed after motion events. This model uses local recording, so videos can be saved without relying on a paid cloud service. The kit mentioned includes a Hub Mini, which typically helps with keeping events accessible within the system. Because "No Subscription" is stated, buyers should still check what happens if local storage runs out. If local space is limited, older footage may be overwritten, reducing the amount of review history available.
Smart Detection and Alerts
Because the Reolink (D5KY) is aimed at home monitoring, its alert behaviour depends on how the camera's detection features interact with motion in the scene, rather than motion tracking alone. The practical outcome is typically fewer false alarms when alerts are based on people detection, which helps reduce unwanted notifications from pets or non-human movement. Setup stays simple by keeping person detection enabled and using motion alerts only where person detection is uncertain.
Two-Way Audio and Siren
The security camera (D5KY) includes two-way audio and a siren, allowing real-time communication and a deterrent alert once motion is detected. In everyday use, two-way audio enables the homeowner to speak to visitors or warn intruders, while listening for responses without opening a door. The siren provides an attention-grabbing alert to draw attention in the immediate area.
App and Setup
To get this security camera (D5KY) working, setup begins in the Reolink Argus PT 5MP app. The camera is added in the app and initial preferences are configured. The device is paired to a Dual Band WiFi network, then motion and person detection options are enabled as required in the app. Pan and tilt controls are checked so the 360 degree coverage can be tested by moving the camera view. Outdoor placement must be matched to the camera's stated weatherproof rating, and the hub mini is positioned for stable connectivity. Local recording can be enabled in the app.
Who Is This Security Camera For?
This camera is for people wanting outdoor security that stays subscription-free, with pan-tilt-zoom control and smarter motion alerts when running cables is difficult. It suits homes that benefit from 360-degree pan and tilt coverage, as the Argus PT 5MP can re-aim when motion occurs. Those looking for colour night vision and AI motion, including person detection, will find it useful for keeping watch on entrances, patios, or driveways. Dual band WiFi and local recording support on-site storage rather than relying on cloud access. It also works well for renters or small businesses, provided it can be placed in a suitable weatherproof location.
Where to Buy in the UK
Finding where to get the Reolink Solar Security Camera Outdoor + Hub Mini in the UK usually comes down to checking approved sellers and major online marketplaces, then confirming the exact package contents, since availability can fluctuate by listing. The shopper should look specifically for the "2x Argus PT 5MP Solar Security Camera Outdoor + Hub Mini" bundle. After locating a listing, they should verify the included items, like the Hub Mini, and confirm features shown in the title, including 360° pan tilt, dual band WiFi, local recording, and no subscription. Used or returned stock can be a risk, so checking seller ratings and return policies is prudent, especially where listings do not clearly state that the stock is new.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the security camera (D5KY) worth it?
For keeping an eye on your home, the Reolink (D5KY) earns its place with motion and person alerts to your phone and colour night vision. Check the current Amazon UK price, as it changes often.
Does the security camera (D5KY) need a monthly subscription?
It depends on how you store footage. Live viewing and alerts are normally free; cloud recording and longer history usually need a paid plan. Check whether it supports local SD or NVR storage if you want to avoid a subscription.
Is it legal to use this security camera (D5KY) in the UK?
Yes, for securing your own property. If the camera captures beyond your boundary (a neighbour's garden, a shared path or the street), UK data-protection rules apply - position it to minimise that, and let neighbours know. This is general guidance, not legal advice.
Can the Reolink (D5KY) be used outdoors?
Yes - the Reolink Argus PT 5MP (D5KY) is rated for outdoor use, so it withstands UK rain and cold. Mount it under an eave where possible to keep rain off the lens and reduce glare.
How good is night vision on the security camera (D5KY)?
This security camera (D5KY) has colour night vision. Colour night vision needs some ambient or built-in light; in pitch dark it falls back to infrared.
How does the Reolink (D5KY) store footage?
Footage is stored via the app, with cloud plans for saved history; check whether it also takes a microSD card if you prefer local storage without a subscription.
Does the security camera (D5KY) work with Alexa or Google?
Most Wi-Fi security cameras let you view the live feed on an Alexa or Google smart display by voice; check the listing for the exact integrations the Reolink (D5KY) supports before buying if that matters to you.