6 best home security cameras
Compare our favorites on cost and features
A security camera is a smart investment if you want to monitor your property while you're at work or on an extended vacation. It can also help you keep an eye on pets or children while they play in the yard and even let you talk to visitors at your door when you aren’t home.
The seemingly endless security camera options make it hard to know what exactly to look for. We looked at several key features as well as customer reviews to choose our picks — read our guide to find the best home security camera for you.
Our top picks
What are the best home security cameras?
We started with a list of more than 20 popular home security cameras. To select our favorites, we considered verified customer reviews on our site as well as reviews and ratings from across the internet.
The ConsumerAffairs Research Team also compared picture quality, smart integrations and storage capabilities, among other features. Finally, we used hands-on testing to see how these cameras would work in a real home.
Reolink Argus 3 Pro |
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The Reolink Argus 3 Pro is a spotlight camera, which means a bright light comes on when it detects a moving object. This gives you better visibility and can scare away potential thieves. It's connected wirelessly, has a solar charging option and lets you customize the video. As of publishing, pricing starts at $119.99 per camera, with kits available.
What we like
What to consider
Wyze Cam v3 |
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Wyze Cam v3 is a tiny camera, but it comes with a lot of features you’ll find with much more expensive cameras. It can also be set up in less than five minutes, making it perfect for those with little time or patience. As of publishing, prices start at $35.98 per camera. It can also be purchased as a two-pack for a little over $70, which is much cheaper than what most single security cameras cost.
What we like
What to consider
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SimpliSafe SimpliCam is a corded, indoor security camera. Pricing starts at $99 each at the time of publishing, and you have the option of adding an outdoor kit. Features include 24/7 live video access through the mobile app, motion detection, a recording feature, 30-day storage and the ability to download clips. Keep in mind that you'll need a strong Wi-Fi signal to get the most out of this camera setup.
What we like
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Like the Reolink pick, the Arlo Pro 4 is a spotlight camera. It's connected wirelessly, can be installed indoors or outdoors and has a six-month battery life. Other features include enhanced night vision, color pictures at day or night and two-way audio. As of publishing, pricing starts at $157.91 per camera, with kits available.
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The Google Nest Cam is an indoor camera that's compatible with other Google Home devices. It's hard-wired, so you don’t have to worry about charging the battery. We also like that this high-definition camera has noise cancellation and echo suppression. As of publishing, pricing starts at $79.99. Refurbished Nest Cams are also available for a cheaper price.
What we like
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The Ring Stick Up Cam Battery is the most versatile camera on our list, thanks to an innovative mounting system, cordless features and indoor/outdoor design. It can also work alongside other Ring cameras, smart doorbells and other smart home devices. As of publishing, prices start at $99.99. Bundled packages are also available.
What we like
What to consider
What to look for in a home security camera system
When you’re ready to start looking into home security camera systems, it's important to know that there are a few categories of security cameras. First, there are wired and wireless. Wireless cameras have battery packs and are easier to install and move, which often makes them ideal for renters or others who plan to move soon.
Wired cameras, on the other hand, are less vulnerable to interference and aren’t dependent on a wireless signal, making them more dependable. Unfortunately, wired cameras typically need to be installed by a professional.
Second, some security cameras can be used alone, while others can only be used as part of a security system.
» DISCOVER: Best wireless home security systems
The benefit of purchasing a camera that comes with a security system is you get full-home coverage, including alerts when your doors or windows open. With stand-alone cameras, you get motion alerts on your phone for just the areas the camera can “see.” This can leave your home with some security vulnerabilities.
Other considerations include:
- Picture resolution: Higher-resolution cameras will produce clearer, sharper images. This can be particularly helpful at night or in low-light situations.
- Mounting system: The mounting system may affect where and how you can install the cameras. Indoor cameras typically benefit from simple mounting systems that let you place the camera in a high location for maximum visibility.
- Panning/tilting: Pan-and-tilt functionality is important for indoor cameras because you can remotely reposition the camera’s lens to look around a room.
- Video display: A camera’s field of view is the maximum area the camera can see. Cameras have different maximum fields of view, so choose one that can keep an eye on the right amount of space.
- Audio quality: Audio is a standard feature for most home security cameras these days. If you can hear someone through the camera and can talk to them, that feature is commonly called two-way talk. Two-way talk is common on many video doorbells.
- Night vision: Night vision is an important part of home security cameras — especially outdoor cameras. Night vision gives you extra comfort in knowing your home is protected through the night. Look for cameras with color night vision for the best footage.
- Smart integrations: Many home security cameras can be integrated with other smart features. These include motion detection, glass break sensors, smart locks and doorbell cameras.
- Storage: Home security cameras have different storage capacities that affect how much footage you can keep available for viewing. Storage is important if something happens at your home and you need video evidence. If you don’t want to pay a cloud storage fee, look for cameras with local storage.
- Mobile app: Most home security cameras are linked to a mobile app. This helps when you’re on the go but need access to video of your home. These apps can also send you notifications if your camera detects motion.
- Privacy features: Privacy is a huge factor when it comes to home security cameras. It’s critical any camera you use is encrypted and not vulnerable to hacking. Be sure to check out a camera’s privacy and security features before purchasing.
Home security camera FAQ
How much do home security cameras cost?
Home security cameras range from $29.99 to $299 or more. There are several factors that affect camera price, including the technology, features and the number of cameras you purchase. Some companies offer bundling discounts for buying more than one camera.
How many home security cameras do you need?
This really depends on how much coverage you need. You may only want outdoor cameras, or you may want a combination of indoor and outdoor devices. The nice thing is many home security camera companies offer customizable options that let you choose exactly what you want based on your home.
How do wireless cameras work?
Wireless cameras transmit over the internet by connecting to your router. You’ll need a strong wireless connection. Wireless cameras are typically easier to install than wired cameras and are often considered “DIY security cameras.”
Can a security camera be hacked?
With any technology, there is a risk of hacking. There was a Wyze data breach in 2019, and Ring had a similar problem the same year. Before purchasing a security camera, do a quick internet search to see if the company has had any privacy breaches and what measures it has in place to protect your privacy.
» SEE IF YOU'RE AT RISK: Identity theft statistics
Where should I place an indoor security camera?
You might put an indoor security camera so it faces entry points, such as doors or windows, or in a child’s room for monitoring. Consider placing the camera high up on the wall so it provides a better view and is more difficult to interfere with.
Can you use an indoor security camera outdoors?
Some cameras are made for both indoor and outdoor use. Outdoor cameras must be weatherproof, so make sure you’re using a camera labeled for outdoor use.
» DISCOVER: Best outdoor security camera
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