Short answer: If you can pull a cable, choose PoE for reliability, power, and higher video quality. Use wireless only where wiring is impractical or temporary. Many properties benefit from a mix.

TL;DR Use Cases

Permanent outdoor coverage → PoE: stable bitrate, weatherproof, power + data over Cat6.

Entrances/cash wraps → PoE: fewer drops, better recorded detail.

Finished/historic interiors → Wireless (selective): avoid opening walls; ensure strong AP coverage.

Detached garage/outbuilding → PoE or PtP wireless bridge: trench later if needed.

Short-term rentals → PoE outdoors, none indoors: reliable recording, guest privacy.

Temporary monitoring → Wireless: fast to deploy; mind batteries/chargers.

When PoE Wins

• Reliability & quality: A single Cat6 line delivers consistent bandwidth for higher bitrates (clearer details on faces/plates).

• One-cable install: Power and data via the switch—no wall warts or hunting for outlets.

• Uptime: Less interference than Wi-Fi; fewer drops during storms or busy hours.

• Neat infrastructure: All home-run to a rack/NVR, easy to maintain and expand.

When Wireless Makes Sense

• No easy cable path: Finished decorative spaces, thick masonry, or rentals where you can’t open walls.

• Temporary or mobile views: Renovations, pop-up areas, seasonal monitoring.

• Outbuilding with no trench yet: Bridge it first (wireless point-to-point), trench later.

Storage: NVR vs. Cloud

• NVR (on-prem): No monthly fees, best for 24/7 recording and multiple PoE cameras.

• Cloud: Simple app experience; good for light/spot coverage. Watch your upload bandwidth and recurring costs.

Placement Tips (Fast Wins)

• Mount at 8–10 ft height, angled across walkways (not just straight on).

• Avoid backlighting (e.g., a bright window behind a subject).

• Use PoE++ or injector if the camera has heaters/IR that need extra power.

• Label every run; keep a map. Future-you will celebrate.

How to Choose in 30 Seconds

• If it’s critical coverage or outdoors → PoE.

• If you can’t pull a cable → Wireless, but ensure strong Wi-Fi and check battery/charger realities.

• For multiple cameras → Wire a PoE switch + NVR, then add selective wireless only where needed.

We design and install PoE camera systems (no alarm contracts) across Greenville, Spartanburg, Hendersonville, and Asheville. Want a quick plan? Request a site walk.