Best Wireless Security Cameras Reviews & Guides of 2021

Having a surveillance system outside of the home isn’t anything new, but these models offer some of the most impressive technology out there. It’s not hard to see from these best wireless security cameras review that protecting the privacy of a home is easier than ever.

Jerry Carter - Editorial Staff

Updated: March 2, 2021

What We Did to Find the Best

To figure out which were the best wireless security cameras of 2021, we had to put them to the test. We had five key metrics to consider, and each received a grade between zero and 10. After that, we looked at the average value of each, which helped us summarize the top options into this review.

  • 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)

Our team put in a lot of work to create an honest, informative, and accurate review. After hours of research, writing, and editing, we finally have a complete listing of the top choices to consider in 2021.

1. Abode Lota: Pay a Bit More for Professional Extras

Total Score 9.2/10

Self Monitored Abode Main
Self Monitored Abode Cameras
No Contract Abode Plans
  • Features10/10
  • Equipment9.5/10
  • Price8.0/10
  • Ease Of Use10/10
  • Trust Score8.5/10
Best for High-Quality Monitoring

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

The Iota is a high-end accessory without the exorbitant price tag. Something unique about this Abode offering is that it gives customers the option to add on 24/7 expert monitoring. This requires a subscription, but the plan doesn’t come with a contract and costs a doable $20 per month. Plus, it comes with cellular backup.

Pros:

  • 24/7 professional monitoring option
  • Built-in siren
  • Custom automation
  • Hundreds of integrations
  • Remote arm/disarm
  • Simple installation
  • Smash and Grab protection

Cons:

  • Pricing
  • Sound quality is lacking
  • The phone app isn't the greatest

The Iota integrates with up to 160 devices, so every family is bound to have a compatible accessory in their home. Moreover, the Abode Web portal allows users to customize their automation for even more personalized surveillance. The system requires a do-it-yourself set-up, but everything is covered by a three-year warranty.


2. Canary All-in-One Indoor: Artificial Intelligence & Emergency Response

Total Score 9.1/10

Self Monitored Canary Main
Canary Knows
Canary Features
  • Features10/10
  • Equipment9.5/10
  • Price8.0/10
  • Ease Of Use10/10
  • Trust Score8.0/10
Best for Clear Views

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

60 days

This wired accessory is intelligent and starts taking video as soon as it triggers movement in the home. Canary boasts artificial intelligence that can differentiate people from pets, making it easier than ever to see what’s going on at home. Plus, there is a 90-decibel siren built into the device to let everyone know if something goes awry. Climate sensors keep an eye out for threats that aren’t people, including excess heat and smoke.

Pros:

  • AI technology
  • Easy connectivity
  • Emergency contact button
  • Money-back guarantee
  • Siren
  • Sleek design
  • Wide field of view

Cons:

  • Indoor only
  • Limited downloads
  • The recordings sometimes lag

Clients can sign on to the Premium plan for unlimited downloads. This costs less than ten dollars per month. Otherwise, their clips will disappear after 24 hours. The Canary works via WiFi or an Ethernet cord for greater reliability. It’s also compatible with common integrations like Alexa.


3. Google Nest Indoor Cam: A Webcam on Steroids

Total Score 9.0/10

Nest Main
Nest Cameras Indoor
No Contract Nest Alarm System
  • Features9.5/10
  • Equipment9.0/10
  • Price8.0/10
  • Ease Of Use9.5/10
  • Trust Score9.0/10
BBB Rating B
Best for Night Control

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

Keep in mind that there is a Nest indoor and outdoor wireless security cameras are two separate things. This former device is for interior use only and has a 130-degree field of view. It also comes with a pivoting stand, allowing for a wider perspective of the room. The downside is that individuals can only get one notification every 30 minutes, which kind of makes the whole camera moot.

Pros:

  • 24/7 customer support
  • Aesthetics
  • Flexible placement options
  • Live feed
  • Simple set-up
  • Wide field of view
  • Works with the Nest thermostat

Cons:

  • Expensive
  • Limited notifications
  • Recording requires a subscription

With a Nest Aware plan, clients can get up to 30 days of complementary data storage, but this costs an extra five to $30 per month. This package allows for much more room to play with custom activity zones, more alerts, and greater overall safety. Most of the integrations and benefits aren’t available without this, but clients will still get the infrared night vision, two-way talk, and phone alerts.


4. Amazon Cloud Cam: Convenient Compatibility, Paid Extras

Total Score 9.0/10

Amazon Main
Amazon Echo Dot Speaker
Amazon Wireless Cam
  • Features9.0/10
  • Equipment8.0/10
  • Price8.0/10
  • Ease Of Use10/10
  • Trust Score10/10
BBB Rating A-
Best for Voice Commands

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

This company finally joined the wireless security cameras game and came out with the Cloud Cam. This is a plug-and-play accessory that easily syncs to the client’s WiFi. That said, it also comes with a ten-foot power cord and a micro SD port. Set-up is seamless, and customers can modify the movement detector notifications to suit their liking.

Pros:

  • Comes with 30-day subscription trial
  • Complimentary 24-hour storage
  • Custom motion alerts
  • Infrared night vision
  • Simple set-up
  • Solid image quality
  • Unlimited downloads/sharing

Cons:

  • A bit pricey
  • Full integration requires a Cloud Cam subscription
  • Movement sensitivity issues

As one might expect, this device syncs with all Amazon services like Echo, Fire TV, and Alexa. It’s also compatible with Android and iPhone apps. The night vision is superb, but many of the most-wanted integrations are only available on a subscription plan.


5. Ring Stick-Up Cam: Affordable Interior and Exterior Surveillance

Total Score 8.9/10

Ring Main
Ring SpotlightIn Out
No Contract Ring Cameras
  • Features9.0/10
  • Equipment8.0/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease Of Use10/10
  • Trust Score8.5/10
Best for Budget Surveillance

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

No

This accessory costs just $100 and comes with a one-month trial of Ring’s Protect plan, which focuses on recorded surveillance. Plus, the stick-up is an interior/exterior device and works incredibly well outdoors. Clients can choose to power it up via battery, solar panel, or by plugging it into the wall.

Pros:

  • Adjustable movement sensitivity
  • Clear feed
  • Includes a 30-day trial of Ring Protect
  • Live views
  • Pricing
  • Several mounting options
  • Variety of power sources

Cons:

  • Limited compatibility
  • No sound monitoring
  • Not waterproof

Ring is a great company for those who are on a budget but still want to secure their properties. Payment plans are available, and there are trial periods that clients can take advantage of. The Stick-Up Cam includes a removable battery, convenient wall mounts, and a hassle-free, no-wire design.


6. Arlo Pro 2 Smart Camera: A Multi-Functional, Multi-User Tool

Total Score 8.9/10

Arlo Main
Arlo Pro 2 Camera
Camera Arlo Pro 2
  • Features8.0/10
  • Equipment9.0/10
  • Price8.0/10
  • Ease Of Use9.5/10
  • Trust Score10/10
BBB Rating A+
Best for Low-Light Views

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

This Arlo accessory is truly non-wired and comes with everything individuals need to set it up on a wall or shelf. It works inside and out and can withstand snow, rain, and heat. At $200, it’s not the cheapest, but families will find that this device is worth the price.

Pros:

  • Complementary Web storage
  • Customer support
  • Digital zoo
  • Panning feature
  • Truly wire-free
  • Weatherproof
  • Works inside and outside

Cons:

  • Lower resolution than competition
  • Movement sensitivity
  • Requires base station purchase

The Arlo 2’s range of view and capabilities in low-light settings is superb. The microphone is also excellent and makes the two-way talk feature even better. That said, the movement tracker is quite sensitive and may pick up on pets, causing lots of false alarms.


7. D-Link: Integrated Automation, Incredible Picture

Total Score 8.9/10

D-Link Main
D-Link Cameras
D-Link Cam
  • Features8.5/10
  • Equipment8.0/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease Of Use9.0/10
  • Trust Score10/10
D-Link logo sidebar
BBB Rating A+
Best for live Views

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

No

For $100, families can get this no-wire, full high definition device from D-Link. The DSC-8525LH model is outfitted with a micro SD port but also offers recording space in the cloud. It’s also compatible with the brand’s smart motion and door sensors. Customers will get a beautiful, crisp picture at all hours thanks to the nighttime viewing range of 16 feet and 1080p resolution quality.

Pros:

  • Data recording options
  • Digital zoom
  • Live views
  • Remote access
  • Simple set-up
  • Third-party integrations
  • Wide field of view

Cons:

  • Expensive add-on
  • No warranty
  • Somewhat difficult to use

It’s worth noting that D-Link doesn’t offer much in the way of trial periods or warranties. That said, the integrations are superb, and the products come with a wide range of movement and sight. There are also unique capabilities like digital zoom, pan, and tilt.


8. Wyze Cam Pan: Great Budget Pick With Pan Scan

Total Score 8.8/10

Wyze Main
Wyze Cam_Pan
Wyze Cam Pan
  • Features8.0/10
  • Equipment8.0/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease Of Use9.0/10
  • Trust Score9.0/10
waze-logo-sidebar
BBB Rating B
Best for Full Coverage

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

No

Wyze’s small, wireless security cameras scan the entire room in mere seconds. The wide-angle lens and digital pan and tilt help to maximize surveillance coverage. This means that clients can check out the room horizontally, vertically, and diagonally. This includes a 360-degree side-by-side range and a 93-degree vertical field of view. The night vision works for up to 30 feet, making it simple to see who’s sneaking around at odd hours.

Pros:

  • Adjustable motion alerts
  • Excellent value
  • Good customer support
  • High image quality
  • Pan and tilt
  • Sound detection
  • Wide field of view

Cons:

  • Limited Web storage
  • Motion tagging is very sensitive
  • The sound could be clearer

This Wyze device detects movement as well as sound for a full surveillance experience. To keep track of all that data, the brand offers 14 days of complimentary rolling Web storage. However, those who want to store longer clips should invest in an SD card. Even better, customers aren’t locked into a long subscription agreement. The indoor device is wired but has a six-foot power cable for easy accessibility.


9. Reolink Argus 2: Well-Suited for Indoors & Outdoors

Total Score 8.8/10

Reolink Cameras Review
Reolink Argus 2 Solar
Reolink Argus 2
  • Features9.0/10
  • Equipment8.5/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease Of Use9.5/10
  • Trust Score8.0/10
reolink-logo-sidebar
Best for Outdoor Use

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

Argus 2 is one of the few wireless security cameras that work with a rechargeable battery and is also solar-powered, so clients can place it just about anywhere. Plus, it comes with a mounting panel for easier set-up. The whole thing comes in at under $100, and unlike other wireless security cameras, it can sit on its own and doesn’t require a hub or base station.

Pros:

  • Complementary play-back
  • Digital zoom
  • Flexible placement
  • Indoor/outdoor accessibility
  • Live View anytime
  • Night vision
  • Weatherproof

Cons:

  • Can only view footage on app
  • Motion delays
  • Requires WiFi connection

Customers can take advantage of the Reolink app, which grants them complementary play-back on their recordings. However, they can only view footage on their phone, rather than on a TV or computer. The cam comes with seven days of Web storage and also has a micro SD slot to hold more data.


10. YI Dome Camera: A Lot of Control For Less

Total Score 8.8/10

YI Main
YI 1080p Features
YI 1080p Dome Camera
  • Features8.0/10
  • Equipment8.0/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease Of Use10/10
  • Trust Score8.0/10
Best for Customization

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

The YI Dome’s small size makes it inconspicuous, plus it’s got none of those annoying wires, perfect for hiding in plain sight. Families can take advantage of YI’s digital storage or the device’s micro SD card. Put it into the auto-masking mode, and it won’t record without the user’s permission.

Pros:

  • 360-degree coverage
  • Anti-noise filter
  • Digital zoom
  • Live video
  • Pan and tilt
  • Time-lapse feature
  • Unlimited Web storage

Cons:

  • Android compatibility issues
  • Limited night vision range
  • Slightly fuzzy image quality

Eight LED lights make for crystal-clear views after dark, all without annoying glares, too. The anti-noise filter makes it easy to hear children or pets even while there is an outside racket going on. The device only costs $60, but it comes with stunning capabilities like pan and tilt and digital zoom.


Best Wireless Security Cameras of 2021 (Pricing & Features)

This side-by-side table shows the key benefits and specifications to look for in any surveillance accessory. Check out the comparisons to see which option has the most suitable resolution, compatibility, and price range.

ProviderTotal ScorePriceMonthly FeeBBB RatingDIY instalTrial PeriodWarrantyBatt.BackupField of ViewIntegrationMobile AppNight VisionResolutionStorageTwo-Way Audio

Abode 9.2 $229 $0-$20 Yes 30 days 3 years Yes 127° Yes Yes Yes 1080p Cloud Yes
Canary 9.1 $169 $0-$8.25 Yes 60 days 1 year Yes 147° Yes Yes Yes 1080p Cloud Yes
Nest 9.0 $199 $5-$30 B Yes 30 days 2 years Yes 130° Yes Yes Yes 1080p Cloud Yes
Amazon 9.0 $119.99 $0-$19.99 A- Yes 30 days 1 year Yes 120° Yes Yes Yes 1080p Cloud Yes
Ring 8.9 $99.99 $3-$10 Yes 30 days 1 year Yes 130° Yes Yes Yes 1080p Cloud Yes
Arlo 8.9 $199.99 $2.99-$4.99 A+ Yes 30 days 1 year Yes 130° Yes Yes Yes 720p Cloud Yes
D-Link 8.9 $99.99 $0 A+ Yes Yes 114° Yes Yes Yes 1080p Local/Cloud Yes
Wyze 8.8 $29.99 $0 B Yes 1 year Yes 120° Yes Yes Yes 1080p Cloud Yes
Reolink 8.8 $94.99 $0-$14.99 Yes 30 days 2 years Yes 130° Yes Yes Yes 1080p Local Yes
YI Dome 8.8 $59.99 $9.99-$19.99 Yes 30 days 1 year Yes 112° Yes Yes Yes 1080p Local/Cloud Yes

Top Wire-Free Camera Benefits to Consider Before Buying

The best wireless security cameras are the ones that meet a family or individual’s most important needs. These vary depending on the customer, but there are a few top details to look out for.

Movement Sensors

These devices typically have motion detection sensors built-in. This means that when someone moves past the camera, it triggers a response. Higher-end models can even differentiate between a human, animal, or vehicle. This feature tends to go hand-in-hand with live monitoring and mobile alerts.

Two-Way Communication

Products that have this capability will have a microphone that picks up ambient sounds or the voices of anyone who approaches the home. The two-way function comes in handy when clients want to talk to people outside, even if they aren’t at home. It also works as a deterrent against burglars

Mobile App Access

Perhaps one of the most convenient aspects of these devices is the ability to control them from a smartphone. This is something that just about every company offers these days. It’s great for arming/disarming systems while at work, the store, or on-the-go.

High-Definition Quality

For the clearest picture, aim for a resolution of 1080p. This will eliminate grainy pictures and allow for a solid image day or night. Some models even record in color as well as black and white. Other common high definition qualities include 720p and 2K.

Continuous Recording

It’s becoming more and more common to be able to stream footage in real-time with these products. While some only capture image snapshots, it would serve the family better to opt for video. This continuous recording helps with seeing activity before and after an event.

File Storage

There are still brands that require a micro SD card to hold local media files. However, this is becoming a rare sight as more companies opt for Web storage. That said, there is often a subscription fee attached to this service, so be sure to check the specifics.

Live Streaming

On-demand streaming is one of the greatest perks of these types of cams. It can be as easy as opening the mobile app and clicking the “live feed” menu button. This will show what’s happening outside the door in real-time.

Simple DIY Installation

Lots of brands are going the DIY route and for a good reason. It keeps costs low for the consumer, making the company a more viable choice. That said, do-it-yourself installation needs to be easy and should take less than an hour.

How to Buy a Wire-Free Security Camera

Knowing what to look for is only part of finding the best wireless security camera for your needs. It’s also important to understand the purchasing process. Here’s how to spot a deal and figure out what your home requires.

1. Identify Your Non-Negotiable Feature

What is it that your home has to have? Maybe night vision is of the utmost importance because midnight burglaries have been a problem in the neighborhood. Perhaps free Web storage is a must-have between you have a small budget. Figure out what you don’t want to skimp on and use that to guide your purchasing decision.

2. Look for Trustworthy Brands

Odds are, there are at least a couple of companies that you recognize right away. Or maybe there is a brand that a friend was talking about, and you decided to check it out. Listen to which businesses are gaining popularity and do a bit of research to figure out why.

3. Consider Which Capabilities the Competitors Have

Once you have a list of potential devices, try doing a comparison exercise to see which ones outperform the others. Pay attention to special capabilities like two-way communication, continuous recording, and cloud storage. Pricing should also come into play here since you don’t want to break the bank.

4. Check Out Buyer Feedback

There is great authenticity in online reviews, so be sure to check out what previous customers have to say about each brand. People aren’t shy about telling the truth and sharing their real experience with a company. Some sites to look at are the Better Business Bureau, Trustpilot, and Yelp.

5. Take the Budget Into Account

Finally, the cost is going to be one of the most important deciding factors. This can be tricky because the final price isn’t always apparent. Be sure to check for hidden fees, refund or cancellation policies, money-back guarantees, and trial periods. Also, make sure you understand any subscription charges that are included.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the Top Non-Wired Security Camera System?

    The best wireless security camera is the one that matches all or most of your needs. Families differ in what they want out of a surveillance cam, so the answer is going to change for each customer. That said, the most suitable choice is the one that doesn’t break your budget, covers the perimeter of your home, and allows you to control it remotely.

  • Do You Need WiFi for Non-Wired Surveillance Cameras?

    Yes, most of the time, a strong WiFi connection is necessary for these types of devices. Even though lots of brands offer battery or cellular backup, having a dependable Internet hook-up is ideal. This is what makes a non-wired system so convenient. Remember to ensure that the WiFi password is secure, and only family members know it. It also helps to check if the company backs up their data or encrypts it for added protection and safety.

  • How Do Non-Wired Cameras Get Power?

    Wireless home security cameras typically hook up to a WiFi connection and get power through the Internet. Even so, some devices might be battery-operated or have a backup power source through an Ethernet cable. Those last two options are more of a secondary process since the point of a non-wired system is not having to deal with cords and cables.

  • How to Connect a Non-Wired Camera to the TV?

    Most providers offer third-party integrations, which can make connecting the device to the TV as easy as asking Alexa to do it. Other times, this can happen via the mobile app and syncing up all nearby products. It really does depend on the company and what kind of device you’re working with. Since they work off of WiFi, these accessories tend to be a good match for smart TVs.

  • How Long Do the Batteries Last on Non-Wired Cameras?

    Again, this varies depending on the provider, but the batteries could last for years. In some cases, they can hold up for an entire decade. This is one of the technical specifications to look at during the initial research stage. Most cams contain lithium-ion batteries that allow for longer use and less maintenance.

  • How Far Can a Non-Wired Camera Transmit?

    In terms of showing up on the phone, users can access their video feed even if they’re in another country. This is providing they have WiFi, of course. If you’re unsure what your chosen product is capable of, ask customer support.

  • Are Non-Wired Cameras Better Than Wired?

    In general, most people would agree that yes, they are better. This is because they are less obvious and can be kept hidden from plain sight. Moreover, these accessories are becoming more affordable, and providers are beefing them up with all kinds of awesome features that typically were reserved for hardwired products.

The Final Word

These reviews are the result of hours of research and test runs. The team not only looked at special features, but they took pricing, maintenance, installation, and support in mind as well. The consensus is that wireless home security cameras are certainly worth it if you want to protect your home and family. Check out the comparison chart for a refresher and happy buying!


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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