Best DIY home security cameras of 2023

Our picks for DIY home security cameras

To choose our top picks, we compared 30 different features for 27 home security companies, looking at availability, installation and monitoring options, cost and more. We also looked at customer reviews and ratings on ConsumerAffairs, performed hands-on testing and consulted security experts. All prices are accurate as of publishing.

Ring is the most flexible pick on our list. The company offers a wide selection of camera types and a variety of monitoring options. You can choose to self-monitor, which gives you access to just live views. If you want cloud storage, you can go with the basic plan for one camera and pay $3.99 per month, or pay $10 per month for all your cameras. Professional monitoring is $20 monthly as of publishing.

SimpliSafe is known for its DIY home security systems. You can select one or all three of its security cameras when purchasing a system:

• The outdoor camera ($189.99 as of publishing) features 1080p HD video, a 140-degree field of view and color night vision.
• The indoor camera ($99) features HD video, a 120-degree field of view and night vision.
• The video doorbell ($169) features 1080p HD video, a 162-degree field of view and infrared night vision.

You’ve probably heard of ADT — Self Setup is ADT’s DIY option that gives you more control over the installation process. The starter system is $479.99 and comes with six sensors, a Smart Home Hub and a Google Nest Doorbell. You can add additional cameras (the indoor/outdoor Google Nest Cam ($179.99) or the indoor wired Google Nest Cam ($99.99) to your package, depending on your needs. Both have 1080p resolution, night vision and a field of view of at least 130 degrees.

How DIY security cameras work

According to the FBI, a home burglary in 2019 led to an average loss of $2,661. A good security camera can help identify an intruder so the authorities can get your things back. DIY security cameras are designed to be easy to install and set up by homeowners rather than professionals; the process is made easy thanks to wireless designs and easy mounting.

DIY security cameras are typically wireless and communicate with your security system through your home’s Wi-Fi.

While some DIY cameras need to be plugged into an outlet for power, the term “wireless camera” usually means the device communicates with the security system or its app through your home’s Wi-Fi. This means you can put a camera almost anywhere without worrying about stringing a cord throughout the house or having a professional install one inside the walls.

When it comes to physically installing the cameras, most DIY security cameras come with a mounting bracket that can be attached to a wall or ceiling using screws or heavy-duty two-sided tape. Some cameras can even be placed on a flat surface, such as a table or bookshelf, without permanent installation. Once the camera is in place, it needs a power source (often an internal battery) and connects to the home's Wi-Fi network.

DIY security cameras typically use motion detection technology to detect movement and trigger recording. When motion is detected, the camera will start recording and store the video footage on a memory card or cloud storage system.

The video footage can be accessed and monitored remotely using a smartphone or computer. Some cameras also have a companion app that sends alerts when motion is detected and lets you view live or recorded streams and control camera settings.

You can store the video footage locally on a memory card or remotely on a cloud storage system. Some cameras come with free cloud storage, while others require a monthly subscription fee.

» MORE: Best wireless home security systems

Pros and cons of DIY security cameras

DIY security systems have become increasingly popular in recent years, thanks to their cost-effectiveness, ease of installation and remote monitoring capabilities. There are some potential downsides to monitoring your system on your own, though.

Advantages of DIY security cameras

• Cost-effectiveness: DIY security cameras are generally less expensive than professionally installed camera systems because there are no installation fees.
• Easy installation and setup: Most DIY cameras come with user-friendly instructions and can be installed and set up in just a few hours.
• Customizable: DIY camera systems can be easily customized, with options to add or remove cameras as needed.
• Remote control and monitoring: DIY cameras can be controlled and monitored remotely using a smartphone or computer, which means you can check on your home from anywhere.
• Evidence in case of security breach: These cameras can provide valuable evidence in the event of a security breach, helping authorities to identify and prosecute intruders.

Disadvantages of DIY security cameras

• Limited technical support: DIY cameras may not come with as much technical support as professional systems, making troubleshooting more difficult.
• Reliability and security: DIY systems may not be as reliable or secure as professional camera systems, since they use Wi-Fi rather than a wired connection.
• Maintenance and upkeep: Battery-operated cameras need recharging or new batteries, which can be a pain for some.

How to choose a DIY security camera

When picking out your DIY security camera, there are several factors to consider. To make the best choice, here are some features you need to think about:

What’s the most important feature on a home security camera? “I like accurate motion alerts and fast mobile alerts if something’s going on. Throw in two-way talk so you can warn off a lurker, and you’ve got a home run,” security expert Rebecca Edwards said. She also recommends cameras that don’t need an outlet so you can place them wherever you’d like.

» MORE: Best smart home security systems