The best home security cameras can be a great way to give yourself peace of mind. It’s an easy way to monitor pets, kids and any visitors like contractors you may have in your home while away. Plus, in the unthinkable event that a burglary happens, you’ll be prepared. Many security systems can double as outdoor or indoor security cameras, allowing you to keep tabs on passersby and porch pirates as well as whatever may be going on inside your home. A security camera can also be a worthwhile investment for small business owners.
When looking for your home security camera system, there are a few things to look out for. First, it should be able to record in high definition. Overly pixelated video isn’t very useful in the event that you’d need to file a police report. Motion detection is important as well; the camera doesn’t have to be on all the time, but it has to be able to catch anything important. Additionally, it ought to be able to connect to your phone so you can easily check-in. The best home security cameras are also compatible with Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa.
Finally, it’s important to consider how much protection you’re looking for. For small apartments, you may only need an HD indoor camera with local storage. However, if you’re looking for a smart home security system with alarms, two-way audio, night vision video and automatic activity alerts, you may need a more comprehensive security product. Keep reading to discover our favorite home security cameras for protecting your property. Read on for our in-depth reviews on these top-rated security cameras and additional top-rated offerings.
1. Ring Stick Up Cam Wired HD Security Camera
BEST OVERALL
This Stick Up Cam is battery-powered and has two-way speech capabilities with any device enabling you to see, talk and hear from anywhere inside or outside your home. With a rotating mount, this security camera from Ring can be stood up on a shelf or mounted to a wall easily and only needs a WiFi connection to be up and running. It connects to a Ring app where you can access your home anytime via Live View. Plus, it has motion sensors and Alexa compatibility so you can pair it with your other smart home devices.
Pros: Powered by Wi-Fi, great motion detection, easily mountable, budget-friendly.
Cons: Requires a monthly subscription for video storage.
2. WyzeCam 1080p HD Indoor Wireless Smart Home Camera
BEST VALUE
For a fraction of the price of its competitors, Wyze offers Alexa compatibility, motion detection, and two-way audio. Videos are available for 14 days following their recording without the need for a subscription service. In addition, Wyze security cameras let customers remotely monitor live 1080p video streams from any internet-connected device.
Pros: 1080p recording; compatible with Alexa and Google and more affordable than competitors.
Cons: Only records videos in 12-second intervals, no may to increase recording time.
3. Arlo Pro 2 — Wireless Home Security Camera System
BEST SPLURGE
If you’re looking for a total smart home security camera system, then you can’t beat the Arlo Pro 2 package. This smart security system includes four rechargeable indoor/outdoor cameras and a ton of advanced features. Not only does the Alro Pro 2 come with a local USB storage device, but Arlo also automatically stores seven days of video footage for free. In addition, this product comes with the Arlo Siren system, a 100-decibel alarm that can be triggered remotely if you detect unusual activity. The cameras provide 1080p high-definition resolution and motion detection. On top of that, each of the cameras is wired for two-way audio.
Alro Pro 2 also eliminates the need for wires by offering a completely wireless security system. You’ll only need to plug the cameras in to recharge the battery. The weatherproof cameras make this security system ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. In short, if you’re looking for the best home security cameras that also come with smart home security features, this is the product you’re looking for.
Pros: Compatible with Amazon and Google, indoor-outdoor cameras with night vision, a siren, and two-way audio.
Cons: Security system has more features than some may need.
4. YI 1080p Indoor Home Camera
QUALITY PICK
This easy to set up camera provides clear video footage and two-way voice to communicate right through the device. The Yi app provides unlimited cloud storage and easy access to fully control your camera with your smartphone. And if you want a physical video storage option, you can use a micro SD card to save your footage independently of the cloud.
Pros: Cloud has unlimited storage, clear video footage, easy set up and accessibility via smartphone.
Cons: Some users have had issues with the company’s data collection policy.
5. Blink Home Security XT2 Outdoor/Indoor Smart Security Camera
LONGEST BATTERY LIFE
With no monthly contracts, unlimited cloud storage and two-year battery life, the Blink XT2 is about as hassle free as home cameras come. That’s right, the batteries last up to two years, and the Blink XT2 will continuously look after your home. And with customizable motion detection zones, you only receive alerts when they really matter.
Pros: Customizable motion detection, two-year battery life, can be used indoors and outdoors.
Cons: Some users have had issues with motion detection not triggering quickly.
6. AMICCOM Outdoor Security Camera
BEST OUTDOOR CAMERA
With an IP66 waterproof rating, the AMICCOM Outdoor Security Camera is built to handle whatever the elements throw its way. Beyond the ruggedness, intelligent AI human motion detection reduces the risk of false alarms and notifications. And with the ability for up to 20 people to watch and share video, you’ll have plenty of eyes to verify alarms. Thanks to these features, this is one of the best home security cameras designed specifically for outdoor use.
Pros: Weatherproof camera with clear night vision and customizable motion detection.
Cons: Larger design requires more space, and lacks a lot of storage.
7. Kasa Spot Indoor Camera (3-Pack)
BEST INDOOR CAMERA DESIGN
If you want to provide camera coverage for several areas of your home, then the Kasa indoor cameras from TP-Link are an excellent choice. This product includes three indoor cameras that can be discretely positioned throughout your home for 24/7 security. The wide-angle lens and night vision capabilities ensure you aren’t left in the dark. Even better, these smart home security cameras can send activity alerts when they detect motion or sound. By combining these advanced features and affordability, these are some of the best home security cameras at this price point.
Pros: Set of three indoor-outdoor cameras, advanced recording features, compatible with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.
Cons: Cloud video storage not included.