The Blink Outdoor 4, the 4th generation camera, introduces several notable enhancements over its predecessor, the 3rd generation model. These upgrades include field of view, image quality, motion detection, and design changes. Let’s dive deeper into these features and see if the Blink Outdoor 4 is worth your investment.
Key Improvements
Wider Field of View
One of the most significant improvements is the wider field of view, expanding from 110° diagonal in the 3rd gen to 143° diagonal in the 4th gen. This enhancement allows users to capture a broader area, providing better coverage and potentially reducing blind spots.
Enhanced Image Quality
In terms of image quality, the 4th gen provides improved clarity, especially in low-light conditions. This ensures that users can see clearer footage even in dimly lit environments.
Refined Motion Detection System
The motion detection system has also been refined. While the 3rd gen model offered customizable motion zones, the 4th gen goes a step further by incorporating two PIR sensors. This improves its ability to detect movement accurately, especially in low-light conditions.
Combined with AI technology and Person Detection (available with a subscription), this aims to reduce false positives and ensure users are alerted to genuine motion events.
Here’s a comparison table with changes in Bold.
| Specification | Blink Outdoor (3rd Gen) | Blink Outdoor (4th Gen) |
| Camera Type | HD wireless security camera | HD wireless security camera |
| Weather Resistance | IP65 | IP65 (Not weatherproof when USB is used) |
| Field of View | 110° diagonal | 143° diagonal |
| Video Resolution | 1080p HD video | Improved 1080p HD with better low-light capabilities |
| Photo Resolution | 640 x 360 nHD | 640 x 360 nHD |
| Camera Frame Rate | Up to 30 fps | Up to 30 fps |
| Size | 71 x 71 x 31 mm (2.79 x 2.79 x 1.22 in) | 70 x 70 x 41 mm (2.75 x 2.75 x 1.6 in) |
| Weight | 48 grams | 112 grams |
| CPU | Immedia Proprietary – AC1002B, 4 cores / 200 MHz | Unknown |
| Power | 2 AA 1.5V lithium metal batteries | 2 AA 1.5V lithium metal batteries |
| Battery Life | Up to 2 years (based on specific usage) | Up to 2 years (based on specific usage) |
| Motion Detection | 1 PIR sensor | Improved with 2 PIR sensors and fewer false positives |
| Wi-Fi Requirements | 2.4 GHz 802.11b/g/n | 2.4 GHz 802.11b/g/n |
| Available Colors | Black | Black |
| Smartphone Requirements | iOS 14.0, Android 6.0, Fire OS 7 | iOS 14.0, Android 6.0, or Fire OS 7.0 |
| Blink App | Blink Home Monitor | Blink Home Monitor |
| Included in the Box | Camera, Sync Module 2, batteries, mounting kit, USB cable, power adapter | Camera, Sync Module 2, batteries, mounting kit, USB cable, power adapter |
| Audio | 2-way audio (Speaker on the front) | 2-way audio (Speaker on the side) |
| LEDs | 1 blue & 1 red LED | 1 blue & 1 red LED |
| Warranty and Service | 1-year limited warranty | 1-year limited warranty |
| Support | Blink Outdoor support page & Setup guide | Blink Outdoor 4 support page & Setup guide |
| Generation | 3rd Generation | 4th Generation |
| Operating Temperature | -4 to 113° F | -4 to 113° F |
| Software Security Updates | Guaranteed for at least four years | Guaranteed for at least four years |
Improvements According to Blink
Here is the list of improvements according to the Blink website:
The Blink Outdoor 4 camera offers the following enhancements over our Outdoor (3rd Gen) camera.
Blink Outdoor 4 FAQ
- A wider viewing area with the increased lens field of view from 110⁰ to 143⁰.
- Improved image quality and low-light performance.
- Catch events quickly with dual-zone motion detection alerts.
- Minimized unwanted motion notifications using Person Detection and CV technology.
Design and Usability Changes
Speaker Relocation
Another design change is the relocation of the speaker to the side of the 4th gen camera. This affects the audio experience during two-way communication. The slot on the side of the camera might be mistaken for an SD card slot, but it is where the speaker is now located.
Weatherproofing Considerations
While both models are designed for outdoor use, the 4th gen camera loses its weatherproofing when a USB cable is connected. This is a noteworthy consideration for those planning to provide power to their outdoor camera.
“Designed for outdoor use, the Outdoor 4 camera can only be safely powered by using two AA Lithium batteries. The Outdoor 4 can be powered through its USB-C port using a weather-resistant USB-C adapter; however, once the port cover is removed, the camera is no longer weather-resistant.”
— Blink Outdoor 4 FAQ
Here’s how Blink recommends powering the 3rd-gen outside via USB.
Weight and Dimensions Comparison
The Blink Outdoor 3rd generation camera has dimensions of 71 x 71 x 31 mm, while the 4th generation model measures 70 x 70 x 41 mm. Both generations are almost identical in width and height, with the 3rd gen being just 1 mm wider than the 4th gen.
The most noticeable difference is the depth, with the 4th generation being 10 mm deeper, making it slightly bulkier.
In my opinion, the more noticeable difference is the Outdoor 4’s weight, which is more than twice that of the 3rd gen model. Did they just fill the extra space with lead?
Sleeker Motion Sensor
Lastly, the motion sensor in the 4th gen is more concealed, offering a sleeker look while still maintaining its functionality with the inclusion of the two PIR sensors. I can barely see the sensors unless I’m looking for them.
Battery and Power Options
The Blink Outdoor 4 stands out as the only battery-powered security camera that uses disposable AA lithium batteries, which Blink claims can last up to two years. However, the actual battery life can vary greatly depending on usage, ranging from two weeks to two years.
Local Recording and Subscription Options
The 4th gen offers local recording options using a thumb drive with the Sync Module 2. While a subscription is optional, it unlocks all features, including cloud recording and person detection. Subscription plans start at $3 per month per camera or $10 per month for unlimited cameras.
Blink Outdoor 4 – In The Box
The one-camera kit includes:
- Blink Outdoor 4 camera
- Camera lens with status light, PIR sensor, and microphone
- USB Type-C port for optional solar panel power or direct plug-in
- Two AA lithium batteries
- Sync Module 2 (the hub for the camera)
- Plastic mount and mounting adapter
- Micro USB cable and power brick for the Sync Module 2
- Quick start guide
App Features and Settings
The Blink app provides a range of settings to customize your camera:
- Live View: Access real-time footage with a slight delay.
- Two-Way Talk: Communicate through the camera.
- Motion Settings: Adjust sensitivity, motion zones, and re-trigger time.
- Video and Photo Settings: Set recording length and quality, including night vision intensity.
- Privacy Zones: Define up to 64 privacy zones.
- Notifications: Receive alerts for motion detection, though snapshots are not included.
Performance Testing
During our testing, the Blink Outdoor 4 demonstrated decent video quality and fast notification speeds. Here are some key observations:
- Video Quality: While color rendering is good, the overall quality isn’t significantly better than the older Blink Outdoor Gen 3. Night vision is slightly improved.
- Detection Range: Maximum detection range is around 25 feet at the highest sensitivity.
- Notification Speed: Quick notifications but lack of snapshot previews.
Final Thoughts
The Blink Outdoor 4 offers a blend of useful features and ease of use, but it comes with some drawbacks. The video quality and detection range are adequate but not exceptional.
The camera lacks some basic features, such as a siren, date and time stamps, a spotlight, and rich notifications.
The cost of disposable batteries and the need for a subscription to unlock all features further diminish its value.
At its current price of around $89 for the add-on camera and $99 with the Sync Module, the Blink Outdoor 4 is not the best deal, even for those already in the Blink ecosystem.
Prices are likely to drop, so it might be worth waiting for a sale. We have already seen them go on sale for Prime Day at $49 and can anticipate a similar sale for Black Friday and the holidays.
Current prices can be found here (affiliate links):
Blink Outdoor 4 with Sync Module
Blink Outdoor 4 Add-On (Camera Only)
For those considering a subscription, other options like the Ring Stick Up Cam might offer better value with more features and lower costs.
For those who already have a Blink Camera 3rd gen, stick with what you have. Except for two scenarios:
- You need a wider field of view
- You need enhanced motion detection