Blink have a similar video quality, but the Outdoor 4 boasts a wider field of view, improved motion detection with dual PIR sensors, and person detection capability (requires subscriptions).
Blink Outdoor 3 vs 4: Similarities & Differences
By Naila Syifa
Updated May 2024
Blink Outdoor security camera line has long been a popular choice among homeowners looking for an affordable and reliable wireless outdoor security solution. The fourth generation of Blink Outdoor was released in 2023, but the previous 2020-released third-generation model is still available for purchase now, making it confusing for consumers to decide which model to choose.
In this article, we'll dive deep into the key similarities and differences between the Blink Outdoor 3 and Blink Outdoor 4 to help you determine which model best fits your home security needs.
Key Takeaways
Blink Outdoor 3 and 4 have a similar design and video quality, but the Outdoor 4 boasts a wider field of view, improved motion detection with dual PIR sensors, and person detection capability (requires subscriptions).
Blink Outdoor 3
2020 Wireless Smart Security Camera
✓ 1080p HD Video
✓ 110° Diagonal FOV
✓ Motion Detection & Alerts
✓ IP65 Weather-Resistant
Blink Outdoor 4
2023 Wireless Smart Security Camera
✓ 1080p HD Video
✓ 143° Diagonal FOV
✓ Dual Motion Sensors
✓ IP65 Weather-Resistant
#1 Design
Blink Outdoor 3
Similarities
Blink Outdoor 3 and 4 share a similar sleek, rounded square design that looks modern and blends well with most home exteriors. Both are also not too different in size and weight, with compact and discreet profiles that make them easy to mount in various locations.
They have the same IP65 weather-resistant rating, allowing them to withstand outdoor elements like rain, snow, and dust. This makes both models, as the name suggests, perfect for outdoor settings, though you can also install them indoors if you wish.
Differences
Blink Outdoor 3 has a more glossy appearance, while the Blink Outdoor 4 features a doff finish. Unlike the third-generation model which has the camera lens placed in the center of the body, Blink Outdoor 4 has the camera lens positioned in the upper left corner of the device. Other than for aesthetic purposes, this may be done to accommodate 2 PIR sensors on the bottom of the device, while the Blink Outdoor 3 only has 1 PIR sensor.
#2 Video Quality
Blink Outdoor 4
Similarities
Blink Outdoor 4 offers the same 1080p maximum video resolution as its predecessor. It is a standard resolution for an outdoor security camera in the market, but we find it quite disappointing that Blink did not upgrade the video resolution for the newer generation model. Especially, a competitor like Wyze has gone a long way to 2.5K resolution in its latest Wyze Cam v4 model, which also comes at a competitive price below US$40.
Blink Outdoor 3 and 4 also share the same 850nm infrared night vision, which makes it possible for the cameras to view and record footage in low-light or dark conditions. Blink claims that the new Outdoor 4 has an improved low-light performance, but both cameras' night footage is still black and white instead of color, so we don't see a significant improvement in this aspect.
Differences
The more noticeable upgrade that the Outdoor 4 introduces is a wider field of view. Blink Outdoor 4 has a diagonal field of view of 143°, while Blink Outdoor 3 only has a diagonal field of view of 110°. This is a nice upgrade, as we now can see and monitor a larger area with the Blink Outdoor 4, offering better security coverage.
#3 Smart Features
Blink Outdoor 3 vs 4
Similarities
Blink Outdoor 4 retains many of the features that make the Outdoor 3 a compelling outdoor security camera, such as live view, two-way audio, motion detection and alerts, customizable activity zones, and compatibility with Amazon Alexa.
Both cameras also support local storage, but this requires Sync Module 2 (which comes included if you buy the bundle, or is also available for separate purchase). Sync Module 2 connects to the camera and saves motion clips in the connected USB drive (also sold separately), then we can see the saved footage from the Blink app.
Despite having to make extra purchases, we find this feature very essential for security. We may not always be available to check the live view every time we receive motion alerts, so it's nice to be able to have them stored for review later, just in case any incident happens.
Cloud storage is also supported, though it requires a subscription for US$3/month. However, subscribing to the cloud storage plan also provides additional benefits like backup clips, extended live view, photo capture, and more.
Blink Outdoor 4
Differences
Blink Outdoor 4 features two passive infrared (PIR) sensors for motion detection, an upgrade from only one PIR sensor that the Outdoor 3 features. With this dual-zone PIR sensor, the Blink Outdoor 4 has an improved motion detection capability. It can detect motion more accurately and quickly notifying you of detected motion so we can respond promptly.
In addition, Blink Outdoor 4 now also supports person detection. This feature means we will only receive motion alerts when the camera detects human activity, reducing the number of false alerts from pets, swaying trees, or other moving objects. However, accessing the person detection feature requires a Blink subscription plan.
Blink Outdoor 3 vs Blink Outdoor 4
Final Thoughts
Blink Outdoor 4
Overall, the Blink Outdoor 4 represents a modest yet meaningful upgrade over its predecessor, the Blink Outdoor 3. While the core design and video quality remain similar, the Outdoor 4 boasts a wider field of view, improved motion detection with dual PIR sensors, and person detection capabilities. These smart features make it a more robust and reliable outdoor security solution, though some features require the purchase of an add-on or requires a monthly subscription plan.
For homeowners seeking an affordable, wireless outdoor camera that offers solid performance and a range of useful smart functions, the Blink Outdoor 4 is a strong contender worth considering, especially if the wider field of view and person detection are important features. However, for those on a tighter budget, Blink Outdoor 3 still provides great value for money.
If you like to read more about Smart Home Cameras, check out our other relevant guides here:
The Best Smart Home Camera
Blink Mini 2 vs Blink Mini
Blink Mini 2 vs Blink Outdoor 4
Ring Pan-Tilt Indoor Cam vs Indoor Cam
Ring Pan-Tilt Indoor Cam vs Stick Up Cam
Ring Stick Up Cam vs Stick Up Cam Pro
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