Best Home Security Cameras Guide & Reviews of 2021

Any neighborhood can fall prey to package thieves, nasty burglars, and teenage pranksters. The good news is that there are lots of surveillance options out there, and at different price points, too. This review will highlight the top 10 best home security cameras that will keep families safe and protected.

Steven Lewis - Editorial Staff

Updated: March 2, 2021

What We Did to Find the Best

To appeal to a wider audience, it was important to find cameras that ran the gamut of DIY and professional service, as well as a range of pricing packages. Some of the must-have features included monitoring, sensors, alarms, and stable connection.

  • Features

    0-10

    monitoring period, 24/7 alerts, disaster protection etc.

  • Support

    0-10

    telephone, email, chat, and other channels

  • Price

    0-10

    monthly fee, money-back, trial period

  • Ease of Use

    0-10

    installation, maintenance, service support

  • Trust Score

    0-10

    BBB.org and Trustpilot (positive, negative reviews)

To compile this list, it was important to analyze the home security cameras based on key metrics like features & equipment, customer support, cost, ease of use, trust score (positive and negative reviews). From there, each supplier earned a score from 0 to 10 for each metric. Then the average value is calculated, and the total estimations contributed to their position on this list. Readers can trust this review because it scoured dozens of client surveys, consults, blog posts, and articles.

1. Nest Camera: Bringing Smart Automation Together

Total Score 9.4/10

Nest Review
Nest Cameras Indoor
Nest Cameras Outdoor
  • Features & Equipment10/10
  • Customer Support10/10
  • Price8.0/10
  • Ease of Use9.0/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$199

Visit Website
BBB Rating A
Best For Smart Home Integration

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

NO

Those who are looking for the best cheap security cameras might want to check out this brand. Along with its smart thermostats and locks, the system helps to create a completely wired household. The IQ Outdoor Cam can recognize faces and uses a 4K sensor for close-up tracking. A cheaper option is the indoor cam, which sends person alerts and works together with the Aware System. This is a brand-new subscription that uses video history, event-based recording, and sound detection to add even more security to the system. All the products sync with Amazon Alexa, IFTTT, and Google Assistant (who owns these cameras).

Pros:

  • App integrations
  • Facial recognition
  • Image quality
  • Night vision
  • Range of packages
  • Sleek design
  • Weatherproof

Cons:

  • Many features are add-ons
  • No alarm
  • Pricey

Overall, these products are worth checking out. The variety of pricing plans means that many families around the country can take advantage of its surveillance. That said, adding on equipment and features can get expensive, which is where a lot of clients get burned. It would also be nice if the system had more in-depth alarms.

On the plus side, the motion sensors are pet-friendly, which can reduce false alarms. The control hub is a sleek touchscreen that looks like an iPad and doubles as a digital picture frame. People can use this for accessing their other applications, arming the system, watching live feeds, and more. This could be a solid choice for a tech-savvy household.


2. Arlo Camera: Perfect for Essentialists

Total Score 8.8/10

Arlo Main
  • Features & Equipment9.0/10
  • Support Score8.0/10
  • Price8.0/10
  • Ease of Use9.0/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$179

Visit Website
BBB Rating A+
Best For Easy Installation

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

7 days

This business offers outdoor security cameras as well as interior surveillance, all with no subscription required. This is a company for people who are fine with do-it-yourself projects and aren’t looking for anything lavish. Even so, the system is still strong and reliable and can work with up to 60 cameras. The brand has a free Basic package with no monthly fee that includes five cameras and seven days of stored recordings. The Premium and Elite tiers are $9.99 and $14.99 per month, respectively. While there’s no professional monitoring, there are no contracts either.

Pros:

  • A la carte purchases
  • Customer service
  • Easy set-up
  • Night vision
  • No contracts
  • System support
  • 300-foot range

Cons:

  • Extra accessories add up
  • Just the essentials
  • No pro monitoring

Clients can set up their products in about 10 minutes, and there are plenty of a la carte purchases to check out, too. There are even options for businesses and residences to suit a wider range of buyers better. Another highlight is their Netgear customer service, which is well-received by clients. Their assistance extends to live chat, forums, and a support center.

Their range of cams includes baby monitors, mobile HD, and interior and exterior options. One of the most popular models is the Ultimate 4K Ultra with color night vision, 12x zoom, and two-way communication. It even reduces wind and outside noises to get better clarity on voices. It comes in wireless and wired versions, and it’s weatherproof, so it’s extremely versatile.


3. Blink Camera: Great for Renters

Total Score 8.6/10

Blink Main
Blink Camera Outdoor
Blink Camera
  • Features & Equipment9.0/10
  • Support Score9.0/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease of Use9.0/10
  • Trust Score7/10

Starting Price

$99

Visit Website
Best For Renters

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

NO

With no contracts and a basic package with no monthly fees, this company is great for those who are renting a property. The system is battery-powered and comes with a one-year warranty. While it may lack the latest technological advancements, it gets the job done through essential hardware. This includes motion sensors, night vision, and two-way audio. Those who are on a budget and want to get a feel for personal surveillance without the commitment should check this out.

Pros:

  • Affordability
  • Battery life
  • Customer servic
  • Low-maintenance
  • Night vision
  • No contracts
  • Renter-friendly

Cons:

  • Availability of hardware
  • Lack of options
  • 720p quality resolution

The brand started a few years ago as a Kickstarter campaign and is now owned by Amazon. As such, it is compatible with Alexa and Echo, as well as IFTTT. The low-cost starter kit and hardware starts at $99 and doesn’t require a contractual agreement. One of the most prolific cams is the Blink XT2, thanks to its interior and exterior application. It comes with a wall-mount for easy and convenient placement, and it syncs with the starter kit.

The company also offers accessories such as classic wall mounts (for inside and out), decals and yard signs, and the classic sync module. This hub acts as a bridge between the cameras and the cloud, making it simple to store files and recordings.


4. Ring Spotlight Cam: Commitment-Free Automation

Total Score 8.4/10

Ring Review
Ring SpotlightIn Out
Ring Spotlight Cam
  • Features & Equipmen9.0/10
  • Support Score8.0/10
  • Price8.0/10
  • Ease of Use9.0/10
  • Trust Score8.0/10

Starting Price

$199

Visit Website
Best For Mobile Control

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

NO

This company offers no-fuss automation to those who don’t want to sign off on a term agreement. Not only that, but the prices are good, and there is a mix of DIY and professional services. First of all, this is a wireless system that focuses on the essentials while throwing in a few extras. A range of cameras is available to households big and small. These might devices are tiny, but their smart integrations are powerful. These include Google Assistant, Alexa, and Echo.

Pros:

  • Custom packages
  • Easy set-up
  • Monitoring options
  • Neighborhood app
  • No contracts
  • Range of cameras
  • Wireless

Cons:

  • Customer service
  • Gets expensive for larger properties
  • Glitchy connections

The awesome thing about this system is that it’s more than cameras. Choose from smart lighting and alarms or sync everything together to create the ultimate, customized security arrangement. For instance, floodlights will deter intruders from sneaking around, while the video doorbell is great for recognizing visitors or scaring off thieves.

On the downside, clients often experience glitchy connections and report that battery life is not that good. There are also poor customer service reviews scattered online. On the other hand, the DIY set-up is pretty easy, so as long as they’re handy, individuals should be okay. The neighborhood app is another great feature and connects residents online so they can stay aware of crime in the area.


5. Kuna Security Camera: For Keeping it Simple

Total Score 8.0/10

Kuna Camera Review
Kuna Camera
Kuna Camera Outdoor
  • Features & Equipmen8.0/10
  • Support Score9.0/10
  • Price8.0/10
  • Ease of Use8.0/10
  • Trust Score7.0/10

Starting Price

$199

Visit Website
Best For Budgets

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

60 days

Individuals who are looking for something that can offer safety without the commitment should take a look at these products. These cameras come with a 60-day risk-free trial, and they’re easy to install. At first glance, the prices seem highly affordable, but the upfront costs are where this brand will lose some clients. Those who stick it out can experience the crown jewel of the system, the AI.

Pros:

  • AI hardware
  • Ease of use
  • Lifetime theft protection
  • Mobile app
  • No contract
  • Smart detection and lighting
  • Video downloads

Cons:

  • Expensive upfront costs
  • Narrow field of view
  • No night vision

Premium buyers can get the system’s artificial intelligence package, which recognizes faces, cars, animals, and objects. Individuals can program the AI to focus on specific areas, and over time, the technology gets “smarter” as it learns about its environment. Of course, even without this feature, there is still a lot to explore.

Take the security light and camera, for example. It looks like a typical porch bulb, sleek, and attractive, but it is recording its surroundings the whole time. Families can access the 24-hour live feed to see who is lurking around their homes. Moreover, the product has a quick-access 911 tool as well as automated greetings for saying hi to friendly visitors.


6. Zmodo Security Camera: A Budget-Friendly System

Total Score 8.0/10

Zmodo Camera Review
Zmodo Indoor Camera
Zmodo Outdoor Camera
  • Features & Equipmen8.0/10
  • Support Score8.0/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease of Use7.0/10
  • Trust Score7.0/10

Starting Price

$29

Visit Website
Best for Camera Quality

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

60 days

This is another brand that bills itself a “plug-and-play” system. This means that individuals can set things up in no time and enjoy the benefits of property surveillance. One of the first things that people notice about this company is its range of cameras. It can get a bit confusing at times to sift through all the similar-sounding products. Once they can get past that, they can access highly affordable protection.

Pros:

  • Affordability
  • Cloud storage
  • Customer service
  • Easy installation
  • Flexible packages
  • Free lifetime support
  • Money-back guarantee

Cons:

  • Confusing selection of products
  • Equipment lacks quality
  • Limited features on the Basic plan

The brand has budget-friendly solutions, and the basic package doesn’t require a contract or fixed rate agreement. Like one of its competitors, this brand has a smart light called the Torch 360. It comes with HD video quality and a color-changing bulb. It connects via WiFi and has a wide field of view, transmitting what it sees to the user’s mobile device or television. People can set it up with motion detection and alerts, adding to their peace of mind.

Keep in mind that clients must purchase a premium subscription for the more advanced features like the smart doorbell. Also, since the cameras all have similar names, differentiating and selecting one can be quite confusing.


7. Lorex Security Camera: The Bells & Whistles

Total Score 7.8/10

Lorex Security Cameras Review
Lorex WiFi Outdoor Camera
Lorex Outdoor Camera
  • Features & Equipment8.0/10
  • Support Score7.0/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease of Use7.0/10
  • Trust Score8.0/10

Starting Price

$99

BBB Rating A+
Best for Versatility

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

60 days

With its range of premium cameras, this business has something for everyone. There are outdoor and indoor security cameras, as well as HD resolution quality and night vision. One drawback is that the nightly feed is grainier than other models. Even so, there is a 60-day trial on any product, so there’s nothing to lose. Upfront prices start at $99, but it’s not hard for families to rack up a bill of a few hundred dollars for all the bells and whistles.

Pros:

  • Customer support
  • Free cloud storage
  • Latest tech
  • No subscriptions
  • Range of cameras
  • Sturdy products
  • 60-day trial

Cons:

  • Installation process
  • Night vision
  • Pricing

One of the most popular models is the 4K security cam, great for high-traffic areas. Users can take advantage of the digital zoom feature, which maintains its clarity and picture quality to provide a better view. The 8mp IP camera is a good example from the brand and comes with a wide-angle lens and weatherproof exterior. Encoding technology in the device captures images and recordings without using up all of the file storage. This is the prime model from the company, but there are less-expensive options too, such as the 2mp full HD 1080P cam.

Besides that, clients can opt for a package of two or more products so they can perfectly outfit their property with surveillance.


8. Wyze Cam Pan: High Quality in a Humble Package

Total Score 7.6/10

Wyze Main
Wyze Cam_Pan
Wyze Cam Pan
  • Features & Equipment7.0/10
  • Support Score7.0/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease of Use6.0/10
  • Trust Score8.0/10

Starting Price

$40

BBB Rating B-
Best For Cash-Strapped Families

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

NO

Its indoor security cameras are small and convenient but also pack a punch. They come with 360-degree coverage thanks to horizontal and vertical panning. Add to that the smart motion tracking, and this is an affordable, quality system for busy, cash-strapped families. Other benefits include the quick scan feature, two-way audio, and integration with third-party smart devices like Alexa. No subscriptions or contracts are necessary, and pricing starts at just $40.

Pros:

  • Affordability
  • Easy installation
  • No subscriptions or contracts
  • Smart bulbs and plugs
  • Sound detection
  • 1080p HD resolution
  • 360-degree coverage

Cons:

  • Difficult placement
  • Glitchy speaker quality
  • Lack of video storage

One of the best-sellers from this company is the panning camera. It’s just $30 upfront and syncs up with other third-party smart devices. Its 120-degree field of view lens allows it to pan across much of the surrounding environment, great for analyzing a room and tracking movement, even at night. The sensors can differentiate between pets and people, and the two-way communication lets individuals talk to family members at home while they’re away.

The provider also has a Cam Pan Mounting kit for $9 more. This can make it easier to conceal the surveillance device if need be. The accessories can literally hook customers up; there are a smart surge protector and microSDHC card, both at under $10.


9. Ezviz Security Camera: Top-Performing Outdoor Cam

Total Score 7.4/10

Ezviz Main
Ezviz Camera Indoor C6CN
Ezviz Camera Indoor C1C
  • Features & Equipment7.0/10
  • Support Score8.0/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease of Use6.0/10
  • Trust Score7.0/10

Starting Price

$89.99

BBB Rating F
Best For Range of Packages

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

NO

The prize for the greatest home security for outdoors may go to this company’s wireless models. With 1080p resolution and 8x digital zoom, these are the products that consumers can rely on. At $89.99, the base model is a highly affordable option, plus the DIY installation is fast and straightforward. The cam allows for night vision up to 100 feet, two-way audio, live streaming, and image snapshots. Compatibility with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and IFTTT allows for smooth voice commands, too.

Pros:

  • Built-in features
  • Crisp images
  • Dependable
  • Digital zoom
  • Good sound quality
  • Live video streaming
  • Pricing

Cons:

  • Lacks integration features
  • Not completely wireless
  • Outdoor only

The newest offerings from this company are its WiFi cams. One of these is the C6CN, with a 360-degree field of view. It has pan-tilt capabilities to scope out every nook and cranny of a room. The quality is 1080HD, and two-way talk is included. An alternative to that would be the C2C Mini O. It has many of the same features (night vision, two-way communication, HD resolution), but it has a more limited wide-angle lens.

Both of these products can sit on a shelf or table, or they can be mounted to walls or even the fridge. Both are compatible with the app, which sends real-time alerts and notifications. Never miss a beat, whether it’s the kids coming home from school or the cat trying to get into the pantry again.


10. Netatmo Security Camera: Great For Those Who Love Tech

Total Score 7.2/10

Netatmo Main
Netatmo Outdoor Camera
Netatmo Indoor Camera
  • Features & Equipment7.0/10
  • Support Score7.0/10
  • Price8.0/10
  • Ease of Use6.0/10
  • Trust Score8.0/10

Starting Price

$199

BBB Rating B-
Best For Tech-Lovers

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

Some people want home security cameras with state-of-the-art technology. This business offers that along with great customer service and a pretty solid reputation. The company has a popular indoor cam, although it has exterior products, too. Clients can explore the spectrum of smart integrations and devices, plus compatibility with Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT, and more. The wired systems can connect via WiFi, and the installment is do-it-yourself but very easy. On the downside, there’s no two-way audio, battery backup, or live monitoring.

Pros:

  • Auto-recording
  • Customer service
  • Easy installment
  • No monthly fees or contracts
  • Smart motion and intrusion detection
  • Sturdy equipment
  • Timelapse feature

Cons:

  • Higher upfront costs
  • No battery backup
  • No live monitoring

A prized product from their line-up is the Smart Indoor Camera. Its sleek design looks like a thin metallic cylinder, but it’s got all the power of a hefty surveillance system. It connects via WiFi or Ethernet and comes with an 8GB SD card for file storage. Facial recognition prevents false intruder alarms. In the case that a stranger does make its way inside, the cam immediately sends an alert to family members, detects the invader’s face, and tracks their movements. It can also send notifications when it hears a smoke or CO2 alarm.

Cameras are just part of the product line. There are also smart thermostats, radiator valves, and rain gauges. Also, the air quality monitor is especially useful for those with allergies or asthma.


Best Home Security Cameras of 2021 (Pricing & Features)

Check out this side-by-side chart of the best security cameras. It can be useful in determining which brands have those must-have features, and which fall within the family budget.

Provider Total Score Price BBB Rating DIY instal Trial Period Warranty Installation Monthly Cost Motion Sensor Night Vision Power Storage Two-Way Audio Connectivity Field of View Video Resolution Photo Resolution
1. Nest 9.4/10 $199+ A YES NO 2 yrs DIY $5+ Yes Yes Wired Cloud Yes WiFi, Bluetooth 130° 1080p 3840 x 2160
2. Arlo 8.8/10 $179+ A+ YES 7 days 1 yr DIY $2.99+ Yes Yes Wireless Cloud Yes WiFi 130° 720p 1920 x 1080
3. Blink 8.6/10 $99+ YES NO 1 yr DIY N/A Yes Yes Batt. Cloud Yes WiFi 110° 1080p 1920 x 1080
4. Ring 8.4/10 $199+ YES NO 1 yr DIY $3+ Yes Yes Wireless Cloud Yes WiFi 115° 1080p 1920 x 1080
5. Kuna 8.0/10 $149+ YES 60 days 1 yr DIY $5+ Yes No Batt./ Wired Cloud Yes WiFi 155° 1080p 1920 x 1080
6. Zmodo 8.0/10 $29+ YES 60 days 3 yrs DIY $5+ Yes Yes Batt./ Wired Cloud Yes Batt. PoE 360° 1080p 1920 x 1080
7. Lorex 7.8/10 $29+ A+ YES 60 days 1 yr DIY/ Pro N/A Yes Yes Wired/ Wireless Cloud/ Local Yes WiFi, Ethernet 160° 1080p 3840 x 2160
8. Wyze 7.6/10 $40 B- YES NO 1 yr DIY N/A Yes Yes Wired Cloud/ Local Yes WiFi 360° 1080p 1920 x 1080
9. Ezviz 7.4/10 $90+ F YES NO 1 yr DIY $6+ Yes Yes Wired/ Wireless Cloud/ Local Yes WiFi 118° 1080p 1920 x 1080
10. Netatmo 7.2/10 $199+ B- YES 30 days 2 yrs DIY N/A Yes Yes Wired Local No WiFi 130° 1080p 1920 x 1080

Top Security Camera Features to Consider Before Buying

Sifting through all of the home security camera systems out there can be overwhelming, so it’s better to have an idea of what the house needs. Before looking at every single option, narrow them down to a few key features. Below are some ideas of what to consider.

1. HD Video Resolution: Sharper, Crisper Images

This is a crucial factor because it can be the difference between a grainy night time recording or a crisp and clear image of a burglar’s face. Consumers should look for at least 1080p resolution, but if they can get 4K, that’s even better. Remember that HD needs to be supported by a high-speed Internet connection.

2. Spotting Intruders at Night: Infrared LEDs See Up to 100 Feet

It isn’t enough to see the words “night vision” on product descriptions. Shoppers should look for cameras that can handle low-light settings without compromising on quality. Infrared LED lights signify that the lenses are powerful enough to pick up movement and shapes in the darkest nights. Large-pixel sensors are another indication that the model is suitable for the darkness.

3. Wide Field of View: Pan & Tilt to Glimpse Around Corners

A wide-angle lens will be able to pick up movement in the corners of the room as well as pan and tilt vertically and horizontally. In general, the wider the field of view, the more reliable the product will be, and the more use consumers will get out of the zoom function.

4. User-Friendly App: Remote Access & Mobile Control

People today are more connected than ever, and now they can keep up with not only their friends but their properties as well. Most of the models in this review come with an accompanying app or at least have smartphone access. This allows for mobile control, granting individuals the final say over what goes on while they’re out of the house.

5. Ratings & Feedback: Review What Past Clients Have to Say

Shoppers mustn’t underestimate the power of customer reviews and word of mouth. While brands might try to make their products sound like the greatest on the market, hearing from previous clients will give a better idea. Look for mentions of customer support, maintenance, sturdiness and quality, and any technical issues. Consumers are quick to point these things out in their feedback.

Security Camera Types

Not all security cams are created equally. This section highlights the different choices, starting with products that are intended for interior and exterior use. Then, explore the advantages of hardwired and wireless cameras, as well as DIY and professional service.

Many companies have indoor and outdoor security cameras. It may not seem like a big difference, but these items are built in a unique way, depending on whether they’re going to sit on a shelf inside or be mounted to an outside wall.

Indoor Cams

One of the easiest ways to identify the best indoor security cameras is by weight. These accessories tend to be lighter and have greater flexibility in placement. Moreover, interior cams are usually sleeker and are more camouflaged.

Pros:

  • Blend in with a room
  • Easier to place
  • Lighter
  • More aesthetically pleasing

Cons:

  • Can be flimsier
  • Limited software options

Outdoor Cams

The main difference here is the durability and stability. The best outdoor security cameras can withstand the elements, meaning snow, rain, wind, and more. Environmental factors should always be considered, so look for waterproof products that can’t easily be broken or tampered with.

Pros:

  • Convenient mounting capabilities
  • Sturdier
  • Tend to have more advanced software
  • Weatherproof

Cons:

  • Bulkier
  • More expensive

Wireless vs. Wired

This is one of the biggest decisions to make when buying a surveillance system. A wired home security camera can be very reliable, but it’s much more obvious. Wireless ones are tempting, but their connectivity can be glitchy.

Wireless

With a wireless model, individuals have more flexibility in where they put the camera. It’s more portable and tends to look more polished due to the lack of power cords. That said, the best wireless security cameras can be pricey, as well as prone to hacks. It’s much easier for someone to get into the WiFi network this way. Not only that, but these models are more likely to suffer interference from other devices in the room.

Pros:

  • Greater flexibility
  • No pesky power cords
  • Quick set-up
  • Portability

Cons:

  • More expensive
  • Prone to hacks/interference

Wired

A hardwired home security camera is usually the more affordable option, making it a widely accessible choice. Furthermore, the Ethernet or analog connection is much more reliable and convenient for a larger house. Families can get stable connectivity without the risk of hacks or interference. Some doorbell cameras are wired. On the other hand, these models don’t have the same inconspicuous look of the wireless versions. They won’t camouflage into the room as easily and can look quite obvious.

Pros:

  • Affordable
  • Better for larger properties
  • Less risk of interference
  • More stable connections

Cons:

  • Cords pose a tripping hazard
  • More difficult set-up

DIY vs. Monitored

One fine detail is that between self-monitoring and having a professional team keep track of things. They both have their advantages, as well as their potential downsides.

DIY

This option entails having the client monitor their property on their own. For those who are tech-savvy, this can be a great idea. They are in control and can usually access their system from a mobile app in case they’re away from the house. However, some families don’t have time for this, so they may prefer pro monitors.

Pros:

  • Convenient mobile app
  • Greater control
  • Nice for parents of young kids
  • Only family members have access

Cons:

  • Requires technological know-how
  • Time commitment

Monitored

At first thought, some people might not like the idea of someone else watching over their surveillance footage. Even so, lots of home security cameras use professional monitoring, and it’s a popular choice among consumers. It saves them time and energy, and they have the peace of mind knowing that agents can dispatch the authorities in case of an emergency.

Pros:

  • Included in many subscription packages
  • Peace of mind
  • Quicker emergency response
  • Saves time and energy

Cons:

  • Often includes a monthly fee
  • Strangers are essentially watching

Doorbell Cameras & How They Work

Something that a lot of companies are offering today is a video doorbell as part of the home security camera. Someone rings the bell, and the system can record footage of that person, giving clients a clear view of who’s there. This can be incredibly useful for elderly folks or parents of young kids.

The best doorbell security cameras usually connect to the wiring of a person’s existing bell, along with the house’s WiFi network. Depending on the model, the device will start to record once someone rings the chime or when the motion sensor goes off. Whether the client is in their house or not, they can get notified because everything is synced with a mobile app. Higher-end brands have two-way communication so that homeowners can speak to their visitors, no matter where they are.

Pros:

  • Mobile/remote control
  • Monitors packages and prevents theft
  • Safety, especially for kids
  • Two-way communication

Cons:

  • Lower-end models are glitchy
  • Pricey

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can Security Cameras Be Hacked?

    Anything that is hardwired or wirelessly connected can be hacked. Rather than questioning whether or not a system is hackable, clients should practice proper usage and safety procedures. With a powerful surveillance system comes responsibility, so it’s up to customers to be aware of their surroundings.

    While it’s true that these cameras, sensors, and alarms can do wonders for a family’s safety, they are not a magic bullet. To get the full benefit of the devices, individuals should make sure they properly install them, monitor the footage, and protect their passwords.

  • Do You Need WiFi For Home Security Cameras?

    No, but a lot of home security cameras do rely on a WiFi connection. That said, people can always opt for an Ethernet cable or hardwiring to secure their system. This can reduce the incidence of wireless interference and even make it harder for hackers to get into the device.

  • Who Makes the Best Home Security Camera System?

    This depends on what a person is looking for. The top 10 list in this review covers a wide range of systems that will appeal to various demographics, such as families, travelers, renters, and more. While everyone is different, the good news is that there is probably a surveillance device to suit their specific needs.

  • What Surveillance Cameras Don’t Need WiFi?

    A few of the systems on this list will work just fine without a hookup to a WiFi network. For instance, some cameras can connect via an Ethernet cable and can work both indoors and outdoors. Others have both wired and wireless options available so they can appeal to a wide clientele. Some people like having the freedom to connect through hardwiring, a battery, or Internet, so lots of brands offer all three choices.

  • What Internet Speed Do You Need For Security Cameras?

    Looking at Internet speed in Mbps (megabits per second), the consensus is to have 2.5 Mbps per camera. So, if a household had four cams, they would ideally want 10 Mbps. Some brands recommend a minimum of just 1 Mbps, so it depends on the provider that a family chooses. Typically, today’s homeowners have adequate Internet speed and shouldn’t have to worry.

  • How Do I Protect My Security Camera Wires

    Those with wired systems need to be sure that they keep the cords concealed as well as protected from environmental factors like rain and snow. Painting them the same color as the house can be helpful, as well as hiding them behind eaves. Some homeowners may need to drill some holes in the walls to conceal the wiring. This will not only keep them hidden but prevent trip and fall hazards as well.

Final Recommendations & Wrap-Up

While this is not a review of every surveillance camera out there, this top 10 list is a good depiction of the choices that are available to a wide range of consumers. Each of these systems had something unique that warranted attention, be it facial recognition, no monthly fees, professional service, or something else. At the end of the day, families and individuals need something with great image quality, accurate sensors, and quick notifications. Given those requirements, these reviews rank highly and are worth a look.


Editorial Staff

Steven Lewis combined his writing talent and home security knowledge and became a journalist researching the topic. He holds a Degree in Criminal Law and has spent a significant part of his career studying security issues backed up with his legal knowledge.


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