| Camera Model | QR Method | Telegram Bridge Compatibility | Price Range | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Reolink E1 Pro | App-generated QR | Excellent (ONVIF + RTSP) | $60–80 | | Xiaomi Mi 360 | Mi Home app QR | Good (requires hacked firmware) | $40–50 | | Hikvision DS-2CD | SADP tool + QR | Native (RTSP out of box) | $100+ | | Generic MJPEG cam | Manual IP QR | Best (no proprietary locks) | $25–35 |

| Traditional App | Telegram QR Method | |----------------|--------------------| | Requires account registration | Uses Telegram identity | | Cloud subscription often needed | Free (bot runs on your hardware) | | Firmware updates from vendor | Camera firmware unchanged | | QR code only for Wi-Fi setup | QR code for full remote access | | Limited to one brand | Works with any IP camera (even $15 models) |

To achieve a truly full setup, you need these three pillars: