AXIS P5635-E Mk IIFast. Capable.
Fiddly to mount.

Quick to respond, easy to redirect

One of our favourite aspects is how quickly this camera responds. Commands produce prompt movement, making it easy to redirect the view. Speed can also be adjusted for more controlled positioning.

The Mk II specification includes continuous 360° pan and movement speeds of up to 350° per second. That fits our impression of a camera that moves very quickly, although we have not independently measured its speed.^[1]

For us, that responsiveness makes a considerable difference to everyday usability. The camera feels ready to move when we need a different view.

A useful 30× optical zoom

The 30× optical zoom is a strong point. It allows us to move from an overview towards a much tighter view of a particular area. Optical zoom changes the lens’s field of view, allowing the subject to occupy more of the sensor.

The additional digital zoom crops and enlarges the captured image. It does not move the optics or offer the same optical benefit.

Being able to adjust the view remotely is a major practical advantage once the camera is installed.

We can change framing without physically accessing the camera. However, when zoomed into one area, it is no longer recording its original wide overview. That changing coverage needs to fit the purpose of the installation.

1080p remains usable—with limits

The P5635-E Mk II records at up to 1920 × 1080. It is not a 4K camera, and that becomes relevant when examining small details within a wide view.

We find the image usable for suitable applications. We rely more heavily on optical zoom to obtain detail than we would with a higher-resolution camera covering the same scene.

If an installation requires a wide overview with fine detail retained throughout the image, a newer, higher-resolution model may be more appropriate. This camera’s strength is the ability to change the optical framing.

Masks that stay with the scene

We particularly appreciate the privacy masking. In our use, masks remain aligned with the areas they are intended to cover as the camera moves.

Axis describes these as 3D privacy masks. Their practical value is clear where the camera needs to change direction while continuing to obscure private areas. Masks should still be checked across the intended movement and zoom range during commissioning.

A neat, protected outdoor design

We like the rounded dome shape. It looks neat and relatively modern, while enclosing the lens and moving assembly behind a protective cover.

That cover provides a barrier between the optics and external contact. If only the dome is damaged, replacing it may be possible without replacing the optical assembly. An impact can still damage other components, so we would not describe the camera as vandal-proof.

The Mk II’s IP66 and IK10 ratings describe tested ingress and impact resistance, rather than immunity from damage. We also value its cold-weather provision and rugged construction, although we have not independently tested its environmental ratings or heater performance.

It has day/night functionality but no built-in infrared illuminator. Darkness therefore requires suitable external illumination; this review does not establish its low-light image performance.

The pendant mounting arrangement

For the wall-mounted configuration we use, the camera requires a compatible bracket and pendant adapter. These are separate accessories, adding to the installation cost and the number of components that need assembling.

We understand the flexibility of interchangeable mounts. Different buildings need different arrangements. Our frustration is with the attachment process itself.

Adapter alignment is fiddly

Getting the pendant adapter aligned with the camera’s fixing points has been awkward. The positions can be difficult to see while bringing the components together, and we have sometimes needed several attempts before all the screws aligned correctly.

Getting one screw started does not necessarily mean the remaining positions line up. Access from above helps, but that is much less convenient when installing at height.

We would prefer clearer alignment and fasteners that are easier to access from below. The correct driver and a properly matched set of components are important, but they do not remove the access difficulty we have experienced.

Ethernet access adds another complication

The Ethernet connection is on the camera body. In our arrangement, the cable passes through the bracket and pendant adapter before reaching it.

Once the adapter is fitted, access is restricted. If the connection comes loose during assembly, reaching it again can mean removing the adapter.

We have also encountered difficulty getting some standard Ethernet plugs to latch securely in the available space. That is our experience with the cables and arrangement we used, rather than a finding that every compatible connector behaves this way.

Axis specifies an IP66 RJ45 push-pull connector for this model. The appropriate connector and sealing components should be checked as part of installation.^[1]

Too much to manage at once

The frustration comes from combining these tasks: maintaining the cable connection, aligning the adapter and attaching the assembly to the bracket.

Rotating the assembly onto the mounting thread can also turn the cable. We have not had a resulting cable failure, but it is another detail to manage.

We have considered changing the assembly order to reduce movement around the connection. We have not established that alternative as a recommended procedure. Installation should follow the instructions for the exact camera, adapter and bracket, with the camera properly supported throughout. The Ethernet cable must never carry its weight.

Our criticism is straightforward: the most awkward part of this arrangement needs access from the least convenient direction. Once installed, our experience is considerably more positive.

Support status matters

Axis lists both hardware support and AXIS OS support for the P5635-E Mk II as having ended on 29 November 2024. Its support page states that no further software updates will be released after the support period.^[2]

This is a material limitation when assessing deployment today. Responsive hardware and a usable image do not remove the implications of unsupported software. Those implications need consideration within the installation’s network security arrangements.

The original P5635-E is a separate model. Its own specifications and support status must be checked rather than assumed to match the Mk II.