I was initially excited about using Frigate for my home surveillance system, but its complexity overwhelmed me. Despite being designed as a top-notch open-source NVR with object detection and smart alerts, it had a steep learning curve. I found myself struggling to set up integrations, recording rules, and fine-tuning detection zones.
On the other hand, Nightwatcher is a straightforward and easy-to-use surveillance solution that meets my needs. Installing it on my server was simple: clone the repository, set environment variables for camera feeds, and run the app. The web-based interface is user-friendly, with no complex settings or configuration options required.
I found the right balance between power and simplicity by switching from Frigate to Nightwatcher. While Frigate offers advanced features, it’s overkill for my needs. Nightwatcher provides a reliable way to view camera feeds without any maintenance requirements. Its simplicity makes it perfect for users who just want to check their front door or driveway cameras.
Source: https://www.xda-developers.com/frigate-too-complicated-for-me-switched-to-self-hosted-app