The annke C300 (model 171EP / AP171P0102) is a 2K 3MP Outdoor PoE Security IP Camera designed for homeowners and small businesses who want reliable coverage without a premium price tag. At TechBuzz Ireland we’ve tested a wide range of annke cameras, and the C300 sits at the more affordable end of their portfolio. Although it’s a basic model compared to annke’s flagship cameras, it delivers good image quality and is straightforward to set up, making it a practical entry-level CCTV option.
Design and Build
The C300 has a compact footprint at 138.8 × 60.9 × 57.9 mm, though it remains clearly visible when installed. Its plastic housing is lightweight but carries an IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating, providing durability for both indoor and outdoor installation. For a budget IP camera, the build quality inspires confidence for long-term use in Irish weather conditions.
Features
★ 3MP IR bullet network camera
★ 2.8mm lens brings everything back to life
★ Efficient H.265+ compression technology
★ Clear day and night vision with 3D DNR and DWDR
★ IP67 Dust and Waterproof Rating
★ Support PoE &DC12V
Key specification
Setup and Storage Considerations
The installation process is straightforward for anyone familiar with PoE security cameras. The C300 can be connected to:
- A compatible NVR system
- annke Vision desktop software (free to download)
- SADP tool for network detection and setup
Our setup using the annke Vision software was quick and smooth, making it easy to view and configure the camera on a laptop.
ANNKE Download Center: One-Stop Resource for Software & Setup Guides
Security setup requirements
As part of the setup adding a camera is reasonably straightforward.
As there is no onboard storage on the camera, options for storage have to be decided
One important note for buyers: the manual incorrectly suggests SD card support. This particular model does not include an SD slot or onboard storage, meaning users will need to plan for external NVR storage or network-based recording. While this may be a limitation for those seeking standalone recording, it is a common trade-off in budget PoE models.
Day and Night Performance
In daylight, the C300 produced clear and colourful 3MP footage, suitable for property monitoring. The wide-angle lens captures a good field of view, although fine detail such as facial recognition at distance is limited compared to higher resolution 4K cameras.
At night, the EXIR 2.0 infrared provided stable black-and-white images with visibility up to 20m. While it won’t replace colour night vision cameras in detail or range, it is perfectly functional for general surveillance of entrances, driveways, or back gardens.
Motion detection alerts worked well during testing and were responsive across both daytime and nighttime scenarios.
Warranty and Reliability
annke backs the C300 with a two-year warranty, offering reassurance to buyers who want reliable long-term performance. For an affordable outdoor PoE camera, the warranty coverage is a strong selling point.
Broader annke Ecosystem
At TechBuzz we’ve tested several of annke’s product lines, most notably the NightChroma 3.0 PoE Cameras and other PoE-based models. Annke’s wider portfolio also includes wireless security systems for cable-free setups and advanced PTZ units with 25x and 32x optical zoom, as well as complete 4K / 12MP multi-camera NVR kits. While we have not yet tested the wireless or PTZ systems, it’s important to flag them as part of annke’s broader offering, giving consumers a range of options from entry-level cameras like the C300 through to high-end professional solutions.
Conclusion
The annke C300 is a competent and reliable budget outdoor PoE security camera. It cannot compete with Annke’s advanced NightChroma or colour night vision cameras in terms of resolution and detail, but it performs well as a cost-effective solution for basic surveillance needs.
With easy PoE setup, dependable day/night image quality, and the reassurance of a two-year warranty, the C300 makes sense for users looking to secure their home or small business without over-spending. As an entry point into annke’s ecosystem, it offers solid performance and a straightforward user experience, backed by the wider support of annke’s software and NVR options.
For those considering PoE CCTV the C300 provides an accessible starting point at a reasonable cost.
