Amcrest vs Swann (What You Need To Know – [2022])

How we reviewed: hands-on tests, hours studying Amcrest and Swann’s sites, and reading over 100+ customer reviews.

Winner – Amcrest

amcrest 2
primary 4 3

Our Rating

Starts at $6.00/M

  • Picture Quality
  • Multiple Features
  • Great App
  • Cloud is costly

Compare top features

Runner Up – Swann

1978 swann logo 2
primary 4 3

Our Rating

Starts at $2.99/M

  • Low Prices
  • Extended Warranty
  • Great Intro Offer
  • Not that many products

Compare top features

Last update on 2022-11-10 / Affiliate links / Ratings / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Written By: John Fox | Security expert / Locksmith 30 Years Experience

11.01.2022

If you’re looking for a security camera for your home, but are confused between Amcrest and Swann brands, two of the leading security camera brands in the world, then continue on with our guide to making an informed decision before splurging your hard-earned money on a security system you may not like.

We tested some of the most-bought models of both brands to see which one performs better in regards to certain features. In this comprehensive guide, we go through the following;

  • Comparison of similar features
  • Winners based on each feature
  • Comparison of distinct features 
  • Final Faceoff
1978 swann logo 3

Swann

Swann Communications is a DIY home security company with a worldwide presence. Having been a surveillance giant for over 30 years, Swann security cameras are used by homeowners and businesses alike. The company offers a wide selection of Swann cameras to choose from, which exposes you to a number of options.

CHECK LATEST PRICE
amcrest 3

Amcrest

From IP cameras to baby monitors, to GPS trackers, you name it, and Amcrest has it. No wonder the company has garnered a large number of fans over the years. The unique Amcrest IP camera technology makes capturing and transferring videos simpler. This is one of the reasons why we loved using the Amcrest security camera. We discuss this brand in-depth, and the features it offers later in the guide. (1)

CHECK LATEST PRICE

Compare Amcrest vs. Swann Features

Brand

Amcrest

Swann

Item Weight

‎9.6 ounces

14.08 Ounces

Item Dimensions

4 x 3.9 x 4.5 inches

4.4 x 4.4 x 3.2 inches

Batteries IncWired

  • Yes
  • Yes

Works with Alexa

  • Yes
  • No

Amazon.com price as of 10/08/2021 at 3:14 p.m. (MT). Read full disclaimer. Offers and availability subject to change.


Amcrest vs Swann: What’s Similar?

Picture Quality

After testing several models of both these leading brands, we found that the Amcrest and Swann camera systems both provide exceptional picture quality of similar standards.

You can expect the cameras from these brands to deliver resolutions up to a crisp 4K Ultra-HD. The difference between the models lies in the details, such as motion-activation technology, and night vision. If we’re strictly speaking of the resolution of the cameras, then you can easily choose the models of either of the brands and enjoy good image quality. 

Winner: Both

Easy to Operate

All security camera manufacturers aim to produce models that are simple to install and operate. Both Swann and Amcrest have been on top of their game in this aspect, as we found their models extremely simple to use.

One of the reasons why both the Swann and Amcrest are lauded for their simplicity is the provision of remote viewing and operating.

With either of the brands, you can stream the surveillance footage from anywhere in the world via a computer, laptop, or smartphone. Although, of late, many have been complaining about the efficacy of Swann’s app, particularly the iOS users. Apart from this hitch, you can expect Swann cameras to be as good, if not better, as Amcrest models. 

Winner: Amcrest – Better App

Storage Options

Storage is a primary concern of a lot of security camera owners. The more options, the better. Amcrest in this regard is an excellent option to choose, as it supports video storage in DVR/NVR, wireless and standalone storage units.

In the Amcrest cameras, you can also slide a microSD card and record as much footage as the memory chip allows you. Meanwhile, Swann’s storage scope is narrower than that of Amcrest, as our testings revealed. However, it still manages to deliver as per standard expectations.

You can reap the benefits of the wireless storage option in Swann as well, but if we had to compare the two head-to-head, we’d select Amcrest without a doubt. 

Winner: Amcrest – Better storage capabilities


Amcrest vs Swann: What’s Different?

Swann and Amcrest have several things in common, but what sets one brand apart from the other? We tested several models of both these brands to know what are some distinct attributes of the companies, and which one we found to be the better one in regards to their uniqueness. 

Amcrest 

Advanced Motion And Sound Detection Capabilities

A lot of security cameras manufactured in recent years are equipped with motion detection capabilities, which allows the sensor of the camera to detect different kinds of movement, ranging from a human, animal, vehicle, even package movement.

One thing that makes the Amcrest security camera unique is not only can it detect several kinds of motion, but also sounds. Such advanced motion detection capabilities ensure that not a single motion or sound escapes your attention. Amcrest models are also equipped with LEDs that enable color night vision features. 

Intelligent Video System (IVS) Analytics

IVS is a state-of-the-art technology that cranks surveillance techniques up a notch to ensure that little to no blind spots are left. Amcrest has begun to equip its models with this cutting-edge technology to make using surveillance systems more seamless. (2)

You can enjoy several features under the IVS, such as detection of a missing object, loitering, TripWire, and even motion auto-tracking, making it simpler for you to stay one step ahead of a burglar at all times. This made using the device easier for us. (3)

Swann 

IR and Heat Detection

Swann Cameras are equipped with not only infrared night vision, which is quite common in the surveillance cameras manufactured in recent years, but also heat detection. This is apart from the motion detection capabilities of the system. This allows the camera to get activated via even the slightest motions, ensuring that no movement ever escapes your attention. Once installed, you are aware of every activity that takes place in front of your doorstep from dusk till dawn.

Other Products: Amcrest vs Swann

Amcrest SmartHome 1080p WiFi Outdoor Security Camera with Spotlight,...
  • HIGH PERFORMANCE, PRO-HD - Experience magnificent full 1080p HD video resolution at 30fps (1920x1080). This home security camera features an extra-wide 133° viewing angle allowing you to cover every angle. This deterrent camera features a built in microphone and speaker for two way audio allowing you to talk and listen to visitors.
  • ACTIVE DETERRENTS - This WiFi camera is equipped with active deterrents including a boisterous 110db siren alarm and an illuminating built-in spotlight that can be triggered manually or by motion detection to scare away would-be criminals. The outdoor spotlight camera can also switch between spotlight and strobe light mode using the Amcrest Smart Home app.
Amcrest 4MP Video Doorbell Camera Pro, Outdoor Smart Home 2.4GHz and 5GHz...
  • The Amcrest Video Doorbell Camera is powered by using your home's existing doorbell wiring (16V-24V) and is compatible with existing traditional mechanical and electronic digital chimes to provide surveillance of all front door activity in high definition 2K (4-Megapixel) resolution. This home security camera features an extra-wide 164° viewing angle allowing you to cover every angle. This doorbell is not battery powered. This product may contain components that are not NDAA compliant.
  • Built in microphone and speaker allows for two-way audio and makes it easier to talk to visitors without having to get up and answer the door. The Amcrest Video Doorbell Camera is RTSP stream compatible. Includes 1 x 4-Megapixel Doorbell Camera, 1 x Corner Bracket, 1 x Wedge Bracket & Installation Tools.
Swann Home Security Camera System With 1TB HDD, 4 Channel 4 Camera, 1080p...
  • 24/7 1080p STORAGE WITH NO ONGOING COSTS; This wired security system delivers home, office and retail protection; The 1TB hard drive has no additional costs and you can upload footage to the cloud by linking your DVR to your own Dropbox account
  • SECURITY MADE SMARTER; Compatible with Alexa smart devices, Google Assistant and Chromecast; Live stream from multiple cameras and multiple sites; playback video; receive notifications and more on your mobile device via the latest Swann Security app
Sale
Swann Home Security Camera Security System With 1TB HDD, 8 Channel 4 Cam,...
  • 24/7 1080p STORAGE WITH NO ONGOING COSTS; This wired security system delivers home, office and retail protection; The 1TB hard drive has no additional costs and you can upload footage to the cloud by linking your DVR to your own Dropbox account
  • SECURITY MADE SMARTER; Compatible with Alexa smart devices, Google Assistant and Chromecast; Live stream from multiple cameras and multiple sites; playback video; receive notifications and more on your mobile device via the latest Swann Security app
Swann Home Security Camera System, 4 Channel 2 Bullet Cameras, 1080p HD...
  • Full High Definition footage: this complete 2 camera, 4 channel DVR-4580 wired surveillance camera system lets you see faces, license plates and more in rich 1080P Full HD. The cameras' Sturdy construction gives you 24/7 protection in rain, snow, heat and all year round. Each PRO-1080MSB camera has a 90 Degree viewing angle and night vision up to 100ft, so no blind spot will go unnoticed.
  • Tired of paying for extra storage? Enjoy free video storage with no ongoing costs: This wired security system delivers reliable home, office and retail protection 24/7. Have peace of mind knowing that if something happens you will always have video evidence. Store months of video footage onto the massive 1TB hard Drive with no additional costs and upload footage to the cloud by linking your DVR to your own Dropbox account.

The Bottom Line

Amcrest camera system and Swann security system both have been in the industry long enough to establish a name for themselves. While you can expect both the companies to take care of your surveillance needs on the most rudimentary levels, Amcrest has a tad bit more to offer than Swann if it’s the details that we’re focusing on. When we tested the models of the brands, we realized that Amcrest has better quality and slightly more features to offer than its rival.



References

(1) GPS – https://www.britannica.com/technology/GPS
(2) cutting-edge technology – https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbestechcouncil/2021/02/04/13-cutting-edge-technologies-that-may-soon-be-making-a-big-impact/
(3) Analytics – https://www.sas.com/en_ph/insights/analytics/what-is-analytics.html


ebbb364ee14268bd3b77496cab3d1d78?s=300&d=mm&r=g

Written by

John Fox

Senior Writer & Director

John Fox has been working as a security consultant for over 20 years. During his time in the industry, he’s learned about what it takes to ensure your home and family are always safe. With Safe Now, he’s tried to take those two decades of experience and share it with others. His goal now is to help others figure out how to make the right choices for their businesses and families.