Synology BC500 5MP Outdoor AI IP Camera review: A 5MP PoE bullet security camera with 30-meter Night Vision and 110° wide-angle view

Synology BC500 5MP IP Camera delivers strong performance with quick plug-and-play installation and reliable day-and-night image quality

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The Synology BC500 is a bullet-style IP security camera purpose-built to integrate directly with Synology Surveillance Station deployments.

Delivering crisp 5-megapixel (2880 x 1620) resolution at 30 frames per second, it captures fine video detail across residential or commercial premises.

Designed for round-the-clock reliability, its Power over Ethernet (PoE) setup processes data and power across a single Ethernet cable, avoiding unstable wireless signals. Another standout strength of the BC500 is its built-in, edge-based AI analytics suite.

Specifications

Usage & Camera Type
Usage  Indoor, Outdoor
Form Factor Bullet
Surveillance Cameras Bullet IP Camera
Video & Image
Special Features Night Vision, Weather Proof
Encoding Not specified
Field of View 110° Horizontal, 56° Vertical
Video Capture Resolution 1920p
Zoom Type Not specified
Frame Rate 30 fps
Viewing Angle  110° Horizontal, 56° Vertical
Video Capture Format  MPEG-4
Sensor Technology CMOS
Night Vision, Lighting & Focus
Night Vision Yes
Night Vision Range 30 meters
Light Source LED
Focus -
Number of IR LEDs 6 LEDs
Connectivity & Network
Connectivity Ethernet, Wired
Connectivity Protocol Wi-Fi
Frequency Band Class -
Power
Power Source PoE
Battery Power -
Wattage 10 watts
Smart Features & Controls
Alert Type Motion Only
Control Method App
Controller Type Iris
Smart Home Compatibility Synology device
Installation & Compatibility
Mounting Type Ceiling Mount
Installation Type Screw In
Compatibility  Synology NAS/NVR
Physical Specifications & Protection
Weight 1.3 pounds
Width 4.72 inches
Length 8.86 inches
Item Height 5.63 inches
Water Resistance Level Waterproof
IP Rating IP67
Storage & Channels
Memory Type microSD
Number of Channels 1
Brand, Condition & Sustainability
Brands Synology
Premium Brands Synology
Condition New
Sustainabilty Features  -

Performance

The Synology BC500 5MP IP Camera delivers strong performance with quick plug-and-play installation, sharp 5MP video, and reliable day-and-night image quality.

The camera also performs well in demanding outdoor conditions, with users reporting reliable operation through extreme heat and storms. Local SD card recording adds another layer of reliability during network or power interruptions.

However, the effective detection range may fall short of the advertised distance, making placement important for larger areas.

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Reasons to buy

  • Seamless NAS integration: Designed specifically for Synology Surveillance Station, eliminating camera license purchases.

  • Onboard AI detection: Edge-processed AI accurately distinguishes people and vehicles to filter out false alerts.

  • Reliable PoE connection: Single Ethernet cable delivers power and data without relying on Wi-Fi stability.

  • Rugged IP67 weatherproofing: Heavy-duty casing protects internal optics against harsh outdoor elements.

Reasons to avoid

  • Proprietary software ecosystem: Tailored primarily for Synology NAS owners and less ideal as a standalone Wi-Fi camera.

  • PoE equipment required: Box does not include a power adapter or PoE injector, requiring a PoE switch or injector.

Zainab Talha is a technology journalist specialising in electric vehicles, EV charging infrastructure, sustainable mobility, and emerging transportation technologies. Her reporting explores the innovations, policies, and industry developments driving the global shift towards cleaner and smarter mobility.

Her coverage spans the wider EV ecosystem, including charging networks, battery technology, renewable energy integration, smart mobility solutions, and government initiatives. She follows developments across automotive manufacturers, energy companies, charging providers, and technology firms to examine how new technologies are changing the way people travel and power their vehicles.

Beyond electric mobility, Zainab covers consumer technology, artificial intelligence, clean energy, connected devices, and digital transformation. She also has expertise in smart home and security technologies, reporting on deadbolts, smart locks, access control systems, surveillance devices, and connected security solutions.

Her work examines emerging technologies such as biometric authentication, remote access, IoT connectivity, and AI-powered security, with a focus on their practical applications and impact on consumers.

Known for her research-driven and accessible approach, Zainab translates complex technological developments into clear, engaging stories. Her reporting combines technical understanding with real-world context, helping readers navigate the rapidly changing worlds of mobility, technology, sustainability, and connected living.