Best Outdoor Security Cameras Guide & Reviews of 2021

People want to be and feel safe at all times and protect their personal properties and homes. That is why using a cam and weatherproof systems for surveillance is a great idea. This smart camera can help to monitor not only driveways or parks but also children, pets, and more. In this review, readers can find the best outdoor security cameras for 2021.

Jerry Carter - Editorial Staff

Updated: March 2, 2021

What We Did to Find the Best

When trying to understand which are the best outdoor security cameras, we took a process of reviewing them. To fulfill the task, we consulted the best in the field, we talked with colleagues and read comments online about them.

  • 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 outdoor 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. ADT Outdoor: Smart Footage of the Property

Total Score 9.1/10

ADT-main
ADT Outdoor Camera
ADT Outdoor Security Camera
  • Features & Equipment9.5/10
  • Customer Support9.0/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease of Use10/10
  • Trust Score8/10

Starting Price

$160

Visit Website
BBB Rating A+
Best for Night Control

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

Yes

ADT focuses on the users’ convenience. This means that anyone who decides to buy this outdoor security camera can control it using a mobile device. This includes phones, tablets, and even laptops. Clients will not have to miss what is going on at home because they are far away.

Pros:

  • Resists humidity
  • Pings when there is motion outside
  • Control the device remotely
  • View stored videos with ease
  • Compatible with phones
  • Easy installation following reviews

Cons:

  • Only 720 HD
  • No protection against dirt
  • No free trial

Finally, this product gives owners two options for watching what happens outdoors. The first one is by live recordings. This way, as soon as there is motion outside, the cam lets the owner know. The other one is to review videos stored in the SD card


2. Nest Hello: Instant Secure Home

Total Score 9.0/10

Nest Review
Nest-Hello-Video-Doorbell
Nest Hello
  • Features & Equipment9.0/10
  • Customer Support9.0/10
  • Price8.0/10
  • Ease of Use9.0/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$199

Visit Website
BBB Rating A

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

Yes

Nest Hello combines the traditional doorbell with security specs and smart integrations. It has HDR for clear images. Plus, the Nest night vision it includes also gives great video quality even in the dark. On the grey side, this outdoor security camera needs a smart, wired doorbell to function. So, it might be a bit inconvenient for those who don’t have one yet in 2021.

Pros:

  • Extended warranty
  • Tech support
  • Custom alerts and review
  • Mobile integration
  • More accessories
  • 6 languages available
  • HDR for better image

Cons:

  • No battery
  • Depends on doorbell
  • No mic and audio

Customers can also program the Nest camera, so it sends personalized alerts. For example, it can ping a mobile phone when a person approaches the door. Nest Hello will let anyone include more accessories. They will even have to buy a transformer to use the smart nest cam with an electric cord. Finally, it’s available in 6 different languages. So, those who don’t speak English can also access these smart systems. 2 years limited warranty and customer and tech support for at least 12 months.


3. Lorex Security Camera: For All Weather Conditions

Total Score 8.9/10

Lorex Security Cameras Review
Lorex WiFi Outdoor Camera
Lorex Outdoor Camera
  • Features & Equipment9.0/10
  • Support Score8.5/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease of Use8.0/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$118

Visit Website
BBB Rating A-

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

Yes

The pack includes 4 cameras together. This means that the pricing is not high for the value it provides the user. Also, its weatherproof perk makes it suitable for outdoors. The rain or snow will not rain the device, so clients can rest assured their security stands.

Pros:

  • Very resistant
  • Many cams in one pac
  • Easy to install
  • Can hook with other brands
  • 2-year warranty
  • Great value for money
  • 1080 HD for high quality

Cons:

  • Not an affordable camera
  • Not compatible with older versions
  • No DVR

The seller does not provide info about the warranty, so that’s a major setback. Still, customers should take into account the clarity of the image and its consistent night vision. On top of this, this outdoor security camera is very easy to install. Nobody will need to call an expert to keep their home safe.


4. Blink XT2: Security Made Simple

Total Score 8.9/10

Blink Main
Blink Camera Outdoor
Blink Camera
  • Features & Equipment8.0/10
  • Customer Support8.510
  • Price10/10
  • Ease of Use8.0/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$99

Visit Website
BBB Rating A

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

Yes

Blink XT2 is complete for its kind. It includes sensors, monitors, and even audio to communicate with others. The product is also very movable. Owners can place it where they want as long as it is near the receptor. The lithium batteries also ensure the quality as they will not fail for a long time.

Pros:

  • Free Cloud storag
  • Live Stream with Alex
  • 1080 HD recording
  • For indoors and outdoors
  • Simple to instal
  • No contracts
  • Plug and pla

Cons:

  • Limited warranty
  • No trial for free
  • Expensive

All in all, the product focuses on quality. To begin with, the 1080 HD resolution makes it hard to miss what is going on around the park or yard. Its infrared sensors also prevent false positives. This is crucial to avoid feeling unsafe in one’s own home. And it’s pretty affordable when compared to others in the field.


5. Ring Spotlight Cam: Smart Alerts

Total Score 8.8/10

Ring Review
Ring SpotlightIn Out
Ring Spotlight
  • Features & Equipmen8.0/10
  • Customer Support9.0/10
  • Price8.0/10
  • Ease of Use9.0/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$199

Visit Website
BBB Rating A

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

Yes

Ring designed an outdoor security camera that does not need any type of wires. This is a great advantage as it makes the process of set up much simpler. Plus, the ring device reduces the chances that the cam can break down. On the grey side, it is a bit pricey because it only includes one camera in the package, and there are not many reviews online.

Pros:

  • Can be used with Alexa
  • Clients can speak with their visitors
  • High-quality sensors
  • Strong siren for emergencies
  • LED lights to use at night
  • Excellent quality
  • Live view on demand

Cons:

  • Expensive
  • Can have bugs
  • Ugly design

And, to finish, the camera’s audio cancellation feature is also nice. It allows the owner to speak to people on their doors without having to open it. The integration with mobile phones is essential today. The Ring weatherproof systems make it a lot easier to video monitor what is going on at home and outdoors – especially when using Amazon’s Alexa.


6. Reolink Argus 2: Watch from Anywhere

Total Score 8.8/10

Reolink Cameras Review
Reolink Argus 2 Solar
Reolink Argus 2
  • Features & Equipment8.0/10
  • Customer Support8.0/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease of Use8.0/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$94.98

Visit Website
BBB Rating A+

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

Yes

Reolink designed it for instant playback. Such a thing means that the videos are not only stored using the Internet. But that the clients can put these images inside an SD card to see them later. Lastly, owners can plug the Reolink Argus and use its electric power or just apply the solar battery.

Pros:

  • Works with Echo spot
  • Integrated with an app
  • Easy mounting
  • Save power in the battery
  • Universal USB port
  • Great quality of recordings
  • Crystal-clear videos

Cons:

  • Images are frozen at times
  • May have bugs
  • A bit fragile

One can work alone, without the help of a pro monitoring the yard or park. Finally, the SD socket is a nice addition for those who need more space to record video. There is room for up to 64 GB of data. This ensures that people don’t miss anything around their home.


7. Arlo Pro 2: Communicate With Others

Total Score 8.7/10

Arlo Main
Camera Arlo Pro 2
Arlo Pro 2 Camera
  • Features & Equipment9.0/10
  • Customer Support8.5/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease of Use8.0/10
  • Trust Score9.0/10

Starting Price

$149

BBB Rating B
Best For Work Without Wires

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

7 days

Those who want can either use the Arlo outdoor security camera without wires, with a powerful battery. Or, it’s also possible to just plug it in and use electric power. This way, it lasts more time and can monitor all day long. The speakers and mic are powerful enough to talk to more than one person at the time.

Pros:

  • Excellent outdoor night vision
  • Users can add another cam if needed
  • Nice audio and video
  • No power cords for best performance
  • Sharp image with 1080p details
  • Fast charging with weatherproof feature
  • Built-in mic

Cons:

  • Expensive cam
  • Only 7 days of trial
  • Mic can saturate

With a simple voice command, clients can connect the Arlo outdoor security camera to Alexa or Echo Dot. Plus, the Cloud is useful to record every video and image at home. So, new customers get access to the virtual platform for 7 days for them to review. Then, they need to pay for an Arlo plan.


8. TP-Link Kasa Cam Outdoor KC200: High Quality for a Low Price

Total Score 8.6/10

TP Link Main
Tp-Link Kasa Cam Outdoor
Tp-Link Kasa Cam Smart
  • Features & Equipment8.0/10
  • Customer Support8.0/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease of Use8.5/10
  • Trust Score9.0/10

Starting Price

$44.99

BBB Rating B+
Best for High-Quality Recording

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

No

The designer of the Kasa cam designed it to scare away intruders. The siren is quite loud, and strangers can hear it from a long distance. What makes it unique is the magnet plate. With such an accessory, the setup process is even simpler than for the competition.

Pros:

  • Crisp audio
  • Alerts in real-time
  • Motion and sound detection
  • Crystal clear image
  • High-quality night vision
  • Protected against rain and dust
  • Choose up to 4 custom zones

Cons:

  • Limited range
  • Need to use a credit card
  • Sharing is a bit slow

The Kasa Cam is directly connected to one’s smartphone. So, if it detects any motion or sounds, the person will get an alert in no time. To avoid false positives, owners can custom the zones they would like to monitor like the door, the driveway, the porch, and so on.


9. Logitech Circle 2: Nice Option for Daily Use

Total Score 8.6/10

Logitech Circle Main
Logitech Circle Camera Outdoor
Logitech Circle Camera
  • Features & Equipment9.0/10
  • Customer Support8.0/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease of Use8.0/10
  • Trust Score9.0/10

Starting Price

BBB Rating B-
Best for Mobile Surveillance

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

10 days

Circle 2 has a WiFi connection for better performance. On the positive side, the camera only records in 1080p when it feels motion or sound. This way, clients will not find endless hours of footage to watch if they feel there is a threat. Plus, it is compatible with the best Amazon and Google smart apps.

Pros:

  • Set up in minutes
  • Full HD Wide-angle
  • Visible up to 15 feet
  • Bank-level encryption
  • The best free smart alerts
  • Clear pictures and great reviews
  • Built-in speakers

Cons:

  • The system is a bit slow
  • Pricey cloud
  • Not quality notifications

Other things to consider when buying this outdoor security camera are the high-quality mic. Such a thing will allow the owner to speak to neighbors, partners, and even babies if they are crying. And the most important perk is that the app generates a recap video of the relevant events of the day.


10. Zmodo: Sensitive Footage

Total Score 8.6/10

Zmodo Camera Review
Zmodo Outdoor Camera
Zmodo 720p Outdoor
  • Features & Equipmen8.0/10
  • Customer Support8.0/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease of Use9.0/10
  • Trust Score9.0/10

Starting Price

$179

BBB Rating B
Best for Video Footage

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

This is one of the most suitable outdoor security cameras to see in the dark. It ranges up to 65 feet, a very wide angle for most of these devices. The money-back-guarantee will let clients rest assured their purchase was good. Also, they give tech support to anyone who needs it. No matter where they are based in the world.

Pros:

  • Money-back guarantee for 2 months
  • 1-month free trial
  • No false positives
  • Smart cloud and views
  • Easy to share footage review
  • Get clips on mobile phone
  • Not ruined by dust or dirt

Cons:

  • Does not back up every video
  • Premium access to Cloud
  • Power cables are short

In addition to being weatherproof, this camera can also resist extreme temps. Don’t worry about the weather being too hot or too cold. It’s also possible to manage the system with voice commands. This is very comfortable. Finally, the trial is useful to see if a premium plan is really necessary for the owner.


Best Outdoor Security Cameras of 2021 (Pricing & Features)

As readers can see, these outdoor security camera reviews show how similar or different all the products are. Below, those interested can find a table with all the things to consider when buying one.

Provider Total Score Price BBB Rating DIY instal Trial Period Warranty Field of View Resolution Night Vision Type of sensor Monitors Type of Battery Compatible with Alexa 2-way Audio Access to the Cloud Weather Resistant
1. ADT Outdoor Camera 9.1/10 $160 A+ Yes Yes 1 year 95° angle 720 HD Yes Motion No Wired No No Yes Yes
2. Nest Hello 9.0/10 $225 A Yes Yes 1 year 160° diagonal 720 HD Yes Infrared No Not included No No No Yes
3. Lorex Camera 8.9/10 $118 A- Yes Yes 2 years 60° horizontal 1080 HD Yes Infrared DVR AA No No No Yes
4. Blink XT2 8.9/10 $99 A Yes Yes 1 year 110° diagonal 1080 HD Yes Infrared No Durable (2 years) Yes Yes Yes Yes
5. Ring Spotlight 8.8/10 $199 A Yes Yes 1 year 140° horizontal 1080 HD No Infrared Yes Rechargeable Yes Yes No Yes
6. Reolink Argus 2 8.8/10 $94.99 A+ Yes Yes 1 year 130° angle 1080 HD Yes PIR and Thermal No Solar Yes Yes Yes Yes
7. Arlo Pro 2 8.7/10 $149 B Yes Yes 1 year 130° angle 1080 HD Yes Infrared No Rechargeable Yes Yes Yes Yes
8. TP-Link Kasa Cam 8.6/10 $84 B+ Yes No 2 years 130° 1080 HD Yes PIR No Lithium Yes Yes Yes Yes
9. Logitech Circle 2 8.6/10 $151.88 B- Yes Yes 2 years 180° angle 1080 HD Yes Infrared No Rechargeable Yes Yes Yes Yes
10. Zmodo 8.6/10 $179 B Yes Yes 1 year 180° 1080 HD Yes PIR No Rechargeable Yes No Yes Yes

Top Security Camera Features to Consider Before Buying

Most outdoor security cameras have more or less the same perks. But some others are different or unique. For example, these might have night vision, high-quality battery, and more. Let’s review them below.

1. Do They Have a Night Vision Perk?

Infrared LED vision is the latest tech a cam should include to function at night. This way, the video is clear. The image will look as if it was taken during the day. There is even some equipment that records in colors, so the images are flawless.

2. How Do They Detect Motion?

If the client desires to protect a home or park, then motion detection is a must. A camera without this feature is of no use to detect the presence of strangers. True, an outdoor security camera might throw a false positive. But the owner can adjust the perk as they see fit.

3. Does it Include a Sound Feature?

Two way sound is useful when it comes to monitoring babies or pets. It’s easy to hear the children and know if they are crying or if they need anything. It also comes in handy if the owner needs to talk to another member of the family who is in a faraway place.

4. Is Video Streamed Live?

The best outdoor home security camera is able to stream live. If not, the owner will not know if there is something going on in the moment it happens. Instead, the cam records either in an SC card or stores it online. This means that the images are available later.

5. Are They Protected Against the Weather?

The best outdoor security cameras have a waterproof feature. But they are also protected against dirt, dust, and even wind. If the device is not resistant enough, then it can only be used indoors. Read with care before acquiring such equipment.

6. Does it Have an App?

Mobile phones are all over people’s lives today. It is only natural that the apps become a part of one’s security, then. Buyers have to read with care to know if the product is compatible with one’s phone. It’s not the same to have IOs than to have Android, for instance.

7. Angle, Range, and Resolution

The angle allows the image to be recorded or not. The range, instead, means that the lenses will be able to see what is going on. For example, if the range is 30 feet, and someone appears at 75 feet, then the device will not be able to see it.

8. Live Streaming of SD Card?

These cameras have different options when it comes to storing the recordings. One of them is live streaming by using WiFi. The other one is keeping the images for a longer time using an SD card. One negative point is that this footage is not live.

9. Access to the Cloud

Some outdoor security cameras give users two options. The first one is to access the Cloud and store the recordings there for free. The other one is the premium choice. Then, clients would have to pay a monthly fee to be able to use the Internet in this way.

10. Consider the Set-up Process

The most expensive equipment is at points hard to set up. That is why buyers may need help from a pro in the field. If not, the process will be very difficult. Or, even worse, the device might not work well. So, safety is an issue.

How to Buy an Outdoor Security Camera

There are many things to consider when making a wise purchase. Buying a quality product does not mean acquiring the most expensive one. Below, readers can find the specs to look for in cameras in 2021.

1. Consider All Your Needs

Nobody knows what a person needs rather than oneself. For example, what is the budget? Does it need to have a night vision or a big range? What about the field of view? Or the number of devices included? All those questions have a concrete answer, and only the buyer knows them.

2. Choose a Well-Known Brand

Brands are famous for a reason. True, there are some which are more pricey than others. And at some points, clients do not want to spend that much on a product that is not truly crucial for their lives. But it is nice to note that well-known brands in Amazon, for example, offer durable outdoor devices with great materials that last for years to come.

3. Specs Included

Not all devices have the same things, and this is only natural. Yet, it is important to read the descriptions with care to see if the specs really suit what the person is looking for. For instance, if a client wants to supervise his or her home when it’s dark, the outdoor security camera needs a good night vision. If not, it won’t record a thing.

4. Beware of Hidden Costs

Be careful with those that have hidden costs, meaning owners have to spend more money than it seems. For instance, many devices have a monthly price that clients are not aware of when they buy the equipment. At times, this fee is even greater than the cost of the device. So, it’s crucial to be aware of this beforehand.

5. Read What Others Say

Today, it is more important than ever to read people’s reviews. Amazon, for example, has a section dedicated to comments. There, other clients leave their thoughts about how the product is working (or not). This is very useful to see if the outdoor security camera, for example, will be a good fit for the family.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What Is the Best Security Camera for Outside?

    There is no definite answer to this question. What matters here is the features that each outdoor security camera includes. For example, they should have protection against the weather. If not, just some wind or snow would break them down. Another crucial perk is night vision and filters for sunlight.

  • Is There a Security Camera that Works Without WiFi?

    Yes, like in the old times. Today, WiFi is taken for granted, but in the past, most security products worked without it. And NVR systems still function today. The only thing the owner has to do is to connect the device to an NVR monitor. This product will connect all the other devices in the house, if any. Another method is to just wire each smart cam to the other.

  • Are Wired or Wireless Security Cameras Better?

    It depends on one’s likes and needs. Still, wireless cameras today are much more efficient. First, because they are easier to install. Second, because wires can be inconvenient, and people can trip over them. Third, because wireless devices use WiFi to function.

  • What Type of Weather Can These Cameras Handle?

    The best outdoor security camera is waterproof. This means that they can handle not only water but other elements. These include snow and strong winds, for example. Some other elements these devices protect from dust and dirt. Without this protection, they would break down in just days being outside. So, those looking for a product to monitor the outside should make sure they include these perks. If not, they run the risk of low durability.

  • Which Resolution to Choose?

    Of course, the best resolution possible is a good choice. Today there are certain cams that can record up to 4k. But these are not many. Most of the products only use 1080 HD. But that’s a great quality for videos. The image will be very clear, even from afar. But consider that the files will be heavy and they will need a good SD card.

  • Does One Need Motion and Sound Detection?

    Not really. It all comes down to the monitoring the client wants to do. For example, if they would like to keep an eye on a baby or child, sound detection would come in handy. This way, the adult would know if the children are crying or asking for help. Instead, if they are looking to keep an eye on the driveway, the motion sensor is essential. With that, it’s possible to know if a car, person, or animal comes near one’s property.

  • How Do Security Cameras Store Video?

    There are two ways to do this. The first one involves the Cloud. How does this work? In fact, it is very simple. The device can connect to the Internet, and then it sends to a folder every image and video it records. If these are too many, then the user will have to delete them to make space for more. Other devices, instead, have an SD card. So, they simply put all the data they gather.

Protect Your Home Today

All the outdoor security cameras above have their own perks. While some of them have great fields of view or range, others can give better performance. There are many with high-quality or 1080 HD. The most important thing is for users to consider each perk with care. So, they will acquire the best product to protect their homes and families in 2021.


Editorial Staff

Jerry Carter is an experienced writer and has a passion for content development for varied projects. Jerry had been studying law at university when he realized that only writing could satisfy his adventurist spirit and his desire for knowledge. As a person with many unusual hobbies, he is also interested in security and modern technology.


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