u/HomeSecurityNerd

Not going to write a novel but after trying a few options I landed on the S4 Pro from Premium Invention and it has been solid.

Main things that mattered to me were no WiFi dependency, no ongoing subscription, and something that could handle being mounted outdoors year round. Checks all three. Runs on cellular, solar keeps it charged, and it has handled two winters without issue. If you're on a rural or off grid property and have been frustrated with WiFi cameras this is worth looking at. Happy to answer questions if anyone has them.

Does anyone actually know the difference between CAT1 and CAT4 cellular security cameras?

Been going down a rabbit hole lately researching cellular cameras and keep seeing CAT1 and CAT4 in the specs but nobody really explains what it means or why it matters.

From what I can tell CAT1 is what most cameras use. Its cheap and fine for basic footage but tops out around 10 Mbps. Works okay for 1080p but apparently starts struggling if you want 4K or if your signal isnt great.

CAT4 is faster, up to 150 Mbps, lower latency and handles 4K way better. The catch is it costs more so most brands just dont bother, especially if their cameras are only 1080p or 2K anyway so theres no point.

Honestly didnt think it mattered much at first but the more I look into it the more it seems like it actually makes a real difference in weaker signal areas or if you want reliable 4K footage.

Has anyone actually noticed a difference between cameras with different chips or is this just a spec that sounds good on paper?