The main difference between the LG Outdoor Cam Plug-In and LG Floodlight Cam is how they are powered and the outdoor setup they require. The Outdoor Cam Plug-In requires an outlet with a 12-volt, 230-amp electrical connection suitable for outdoor use and within easy reach of the plug-in. The placement constraints include the existing electrical connection, which must be a 4-inch round, UL-listed weatherproof outdoor electrical connection. Both cameras are designed for outdoor wall mounting and are recommended at a height of 7-10 ft (2.1-3 m). This depends on the property's power supply, mounting surface, cable route, and Wi-Fi coverage. 

What Physical Installation Setup Does Each Camera Require?

The Outdoor Cam Plug-In is designed to mount to an outdoor wall using the included mounting plate, screws, and anchors. Use the provided anchors and screws on normal wall surfaces, but do not use anchors when attaching directly to an appropriate wood stud or structural support. The Floodlight Cam includes a standard 4-inch round UL-listed, weatherproof outdoor electrical junction box, which the mounting system is designed for. The Floodlight Cam also has push-in connectors in its mounting plate, and Apple recommends that a licensed electrician install the cam because it connects to high-voltage home wiring. The Outdoor Cam mounting setup is easier because it has a plug-in adapter; the Floodlight Cam needs a matched electrical junction-box configuration. 

How Do Their Power Requirements Limit Placement?

The Outdoor Cam Plug-In requires the included power adapter and an outdoor power outlet within range of its cord, which is about 20 ft (6 m) long. Determine the cable route before selecting the final mounting location, and do not modify the cable or adapter or use unsupported items. Carefully consider cable routing and water management where exposed to rain, and provide a drip loop where appropriate. The Floodlight Cam, on the other hand, requires an outdoor junction box where compatible household AC wiring is available. It also has its power connection housed in the junction-box mounting system instead of an open adaptor cable. Depending on the electrical requirements, you may need additional electrical work. 

How Do Mounting Height, Orientation, and Camera Adjustment Differ?

LG suggests mounting both cameras about 7-10 ft (2.1-3 m) above ground level for optimal detection. The Outdoor Cam Plug-In is designed for outdoor wall mounting and comes with a downward camera angle between 0° and 55°. The Floodlight Cam is mounted upright on a vertical wall, but other mounting directions diminish the floodlight performance. The camera shoots down 0° to 55°, and each floodlight shoots roughly 25° left/right and 30° up/down, according to LG. Both models require enough space to angle the camera once installed. The ranges listed below reflect physical adjustment, not a specific distance they cover or a single angle for all properties. 

How Do Wi-Fi, Sunlight, and Weather Exposure Affect Placement for Both Cameras?

A strong WiFi connection is required at the mounting point for both cameras, so test the WiFi strength before you commit to the mounting point. According to LG, the camera's images are adversely affected if it is directly aligned with the sun or another strong light source. Minimize direct exposure to sun and rain by mounting under an eave or other suitable cover. Use a drip loop with the Outdoor Cam Plug-In to control water flow along the cable and direct it to the exposed adapter cable. The junction box and mounting area should be weatherproof and sealed with the Floodlight Cam. Consider these placement and connection-reliability factors before installing. 

Which Property Locations Suit the Outdoor Cam Plug-In vs the Floodlight Cam?

The Outdoor Cam Plug-In is ideal for an outdoor wall outlet that is appropriately positioned for the included cable and provides a safe cable route. The Floodlight Cam works best when it is already installed in an outdoor junction box and connected to household AC power, such as an exterior-light point (outside outlet) near an entrance, garage, driveway, or yard. Depending on the circumstances, you need electrical work before installing the Floodlight Cam if a junction box isn't already in place. Either way, make sure the wall supports the mounting hardware, the camera is oriented as planned, and the WiFi signal is strong enough. Consider existing electrical systems, cable access or access to the junction box, and whether the proposed mounting location is feasible.