- 100% wire-free operation
- Quick, easy setup
- Indoor/outdoor durability
- Cheap price
- Free cloud storage
- Motion tracking
Ring Spotlight Cam
- Three power options
- Voice control with Alexa
- Built-in motion light
- Three power options
- Voice control with Alexa
- Built-in motion light
Bottom line: Arlo Pro 3 is the best home security camera
With so much to choose from, it’s hard to know which security camera is right for you. That’s why we break down everything from video resolution to smart home compatibility to help you find the security camera that meets the needs of your home and family.
To that end, the Arlo Pro 3 handily outperforms most competitors with a wireless design you can install anywhere inside your home or overlooking your property outdoors. It’s super easy to install and its excellent 2K video quality captures fine details normally absent on 1080p security cameras.
Check out the rest of our guide to see our top security camera picks and what features you should look for before buying.
Here are the best home security cameras
- 1. Arlo Pro 3: Best wireless security camera
- 2. Wyze Cam Pan: Best motion-activated home security camera
- 3. Ring Spotlight Cam: Best outdoor security camera
- 4. Vivint's Ping Indoor Camera™: Best monitored home security camera
- 5. Google Nest Cam IQ Indoor: Best image and video quality
- 6. Vimtag P1 HD Ultra Camera: Best security camera for easy setup
- 7. Canary Flex: Most versatile security camera
- 8. YI Indoor Security Camera: Best baby monitoring camera
- 9. SereneLife Indoor IP Camera: Best night vision
- 10. Wansview Q5: Best pan-and-tilt camera
Compare the best home security cameras
| Price* |
| Video resolution |
| Smart home compatibility |
|
Wireless pick
|
Motion pick
|
Outdoor pick
|
Monitored pick
|
Best image
|
Easy setup
|
Most versatile
|
Best baby monitor
|
Best night vision
|
Best pan-and-tilt
|
| Arlo Pro 3 | Wyze Cam Pan | Ring Spotlight Cam | Vivint’s Ping Indoor Camera™† | Google Nest Cam IQ Indoor‡ | Vimtag P1 HD Ultra IP Camera | Canary Flex | YI 1080p Indoor Security Camera | SereneLife Indoor IP Camera | Wansview Q5 |
 |
 |
|
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
| $399.33 (2-pack) | $37.98 | $199.99 | $199.99† | $299.99 | $69.95 | $142.99 | $22.49 | $54.99 | $29.99 |
| 1440p (2K) | 1080p | 1080p | 1080p | 1080p | 720p | 1080p | 1080p | 1080p | 1080p |
| Amazon Alexa Google Assistant IFTTT Samsung SmartThings |
Amazon Alexa | Amazon Alexa | Vivint Sky | Amazon Alexa Google Assistant Nest |
None | Amazon Alexa Google Assistant |
None | None | Amazon Alexa |
| View on Amazon | View on Amazon | View on Amazon | View on Vivint | View on Kohl's | View on Amazon | View on Amazon | View on Amazon | View on Amazon | View on Amazon |
| Read review | Read review | Read review | Read review | Read review | Read review | Read review | Read review | Read review | Read review |
*Amazon.com list price as of 08/21/2020 at 12:00 p.m. (MT). Read full disclaimer.
†Vivint Ping camera not sold separately; requires a Vivint home security system.
‡Google, Google Nest, Google Assistant, Google Home, and other related marks are trademarks of Google LLC.
Our approach
We’ve reviewed many cameras across a variety of price points and types so it can get a bit overwhelming to collect all of those in one place. Instead, we selected our favorite cameras from all of those other lists to give you a broad overview of what to look for in a security camera.
Our conclusions about each camera come from years of experience, thousands of customer reviews, manufacturer specifications, and—in many cases—physical testing. You can learn more about we review products by checking out our methodology.
Best security camera reviews
1. Arlo Pro 3: Best wireless home security camera
The Arlo Pro 3 is the latest version of a SafeWise favorite. It builds on the previous two versions by introducing 2K video quality and a bright spotlight for nighttime color video. It also tops our list of the best wireless security cameras.
The Arlo Pro 3 is a solid all-around camera that works inside or out, and it’s super easy to install. The biggest drawback is the investment. You need to purchase a base station in addition to two cameras, which makes the up-front cost more hefty than other cameras.
Read our full Arlo Pro review to get all the details.
Pros
- 100% wire-free operation
- Quick, easy setup
- Sensitive motion detector
- Indoor/outdoor durability
Cons
- Required base station
- Limited configurations and settings
2. Wyze Cam Pan: Best motion-activated home security camera
The Wyze Cam Pan has quickly become a staff favorite. Whether you want to use it as a baby monitor (like one of our testers did) or as a means to keep Fido off the sofa (like me), this camera’s advanced motion tracking won’t disappoint.
Instant alerts plus motion tracking let you see exactly what’s happening while it’s happening. And two-way talk is a great way to settle down upset kiddos or excited pets—not to mention scaring away would-be burglars.
Learn more in our complete Wyze Cam Pan review.
Pros
- Affordable price
- 360° coverage
- Motion tracking
- Free cloud storage
Cons
- No email alerts
- Glitchy sound quality
3. Ring Spotlight Cam: Best outdoor security camera
You might recognize the Ring brand for its doorbell cameras. But the company has branched out and added its smart surveillance technology to this compact outdoor security camera.
Because it can be difficult to find power sources for outside cameras, we like that the Ring Spotlight Cam has three power options: battery, hardwired, or solar.
It also has a built-in, motion-activated spotlight that will stop trespassers in their tracks. Plus added features like two-way audio, a 110-decibel siren, and integration with Amazon Alexa make this camera a leader in outdoor surveillance. That’s why the Ring Spotlight Cam was ranked our number one choice for outdoor security cameras.
Read our full Ring Spotlight Cam review.
Pros
- Battery, wired, or solar power options
- Built-in motion light
- Voice control with Alexa
- Loud siren
Cons
- High cost
- Limited battery life
A word about wireless security
The good news is you can minimize the risk with proper internet security. Here are a few easy tips for securing your system from online threats:
- Use strong, unique passwords for all your accounts
- Opt for extra security measures like two-factor authentication
- Add shared users instead of sharing login credentials
- Change your home Wi-Fi password frequently
4. Vivint Ping Indoor Camera: Best monitored home security camera
Vivint has a reputation for innovative home security solutions, and the Ping Indoor Camera doesn’t disappoint.
This home security camera stands out with customized notifications, video analytics, and seamless integration with the Vivint Sky smart home platform. And if you’ve got kids or parents at home, you’ll love the one-touch callout that lets family members call your cellphone right from the camera with the touch a button.
But you can’t buy this camera on its own—you need to add to a full Vivint home security system.
See all the home security cameras from this company in our Vivint cameras review.
Pros
- Two-way communication
- Personalized alerts
- One-touch calling
- 45 days of free recorded footage
Cons
- Only available with home security system purchase
Vivint’s response to COVID-19
5. Google Nest Cam IQ Indoor: Best image and video quality
While the Google Nest Cam IQ Indoor is one of the more expensive stand-alone security cameras for home use, it makes our list for crisp image resolution and its forward-thinking smart home design.
The Nest Cam IQ comes with a built-in Google Assistant and integrates seamlessly with the rest of the Nest home automation suite. It stands out with an 8x digital zoom feature and large 130° field of view.
But there is no pan-and-tilt capability, and you need to get a Nest Aware subscription ($6 to $12/month) to access advanced features like facial recognition.
Learn more in our Nest Cam IQ product review.
Pros
- High resolution
- Supersight zooming and tracking
- Person alerts
- Built-in Google Assistant
- Up to 50 ft. night vision range
Cons
- Expensive price point
- No pan-and-tilt capability
- Required subscription to use all features
More security cameras we considered
6. Vimtag P1 HD Ultra IP Camera: Best for easy setup
The Vimtag P1 HD Ultra IP Camera is a little security camera that delivers a lot at a reasonable price point. You get pan-and-tilt functionality, two-way voice, 4x digital zoom, and clear night vision—all for under $80. The Vimtag P1 is plug-and-play with built-in Wi-Fi to make setup a breeze.
7. Canary Flex: Most versatile home security camera
This Canary Flex is a home security camera that packs a big punch in a little package. It works either connected to power or with its built-in battery—and it’s the only Canary camera that you can use inside and outdoors. It also features other home security perks like a built-in Noonlight safety panic button and person detection alerts.
8. YI 1080p Indoor Security Camera: Best baby monitoring camera
If you want a security camera that doubles as a nanny cam, then you’ll love the YI 1080p Indoor Security Camera. This camera features baby crying detection that alerts you when the camera picks up the sound of your little one giving their lungs a workout. And you get free app-sharing with up to five family members, plus seven days of free storage in the YI cloud.
9. SereneLife Indoor IP Camera: Best night vision camera
The SereneLife Indoor IP Camera offers superb image quality that doesn’t compromise once the lights go out. Time and again, customer reviews praise the night vision on this camera, and it delivers a crisp picture up to 32 feet. Although the app and software are easy to work with, it’s a letdown that you can’t integrate this camera with any smart home hubs or gadgets.
10. Wansview Q5: Best pan-and-tilt security camera
The Wansview Q5 makes it easy to scan an entire room with it’s advanced pan-and-tilt capabilities. You can use the Wansview mobile app to scan the room by simply swiping your finger in the direction of whatever you want to check out. So if you have a sneaking suspicion of your kitty clawing the ottoman, you can catch her in the act with a flick of your finger.
Final word
The Arlo Pro 3 is the one of the best tools for watching over your home. Its wire-free design, high-resolution video, and affordable cloud monitoring help it stand above the competition. Still, it’s one of the most expensive security cameras you can buy, so we think the Wyze Cam Pan is a good alternative if you’re aiming to save some dough.
You don’t fool around when it comes to keeping your home and family safe, and neither do we. A home security camera is just one part of protecting what matters. If you’re ready for a full-on defense against burglars, vandals, and porch pirates, check out our comprehensive collection of safety tips and expert advice.
Types of security cameras
There are a lot of security cameras to choose from. It’s important to understand the differences so you can find the security camera that fits your needs.
Here are the different types of home security cameras
Indoor security cameras
Indoor cameras can be part of a complete home security system or used on their own to add extra protection to your home and your loved ones.
And today’s indoor security cameras deliver a lot more than recorded video footage. Most come with the option to view live action video and two-way communication to scare the daylights out of someone who doesn’t belong in your home (plus you’ll have their picture, to boot!).
But—big surprise—indoor cameras are only useful inside. You can’t make an indoor camera do double-duty by pointing it out a window to see what’s happening on the street or in your yard.
Outdoor security cameras
Outdoor cameras are one of the best ways to deter (and catch) burglars, vandals, and other miscreants. Whether you’re interested in a camera to deter thieves or a way to make sure packages don’t walk off the porch, there are many cameras to meet your outdoor security needs.
One of the most important things to look for is a high weatherproof rating that stands up to the elements and drastic changes in temperature. If you live in a climate with extreme hot or cold weather, choose a camera built to withstand those types of temps.
Another big feature is night vision. You might also consider a camera with a built-in motion-activated light—all the better to scare you with, my dear!
Wireless security cameras
There’s a lot of talk about wireless cameras, but that term can be confusing. Some manufacturers call a camera “wireless” because it uses a Wi-Fi connection, and others refer to cameras that don’t need to be plugged into an outlet.
When we picked the best wireless security cameras, we focused primarily on cameras that are 100% wire-free, meaning they use Wi-Fi and a wireless power source. But we do acknowledge the broader usage of the term and included a little of both in our annual roundup.
Completely wire-free cameras also eliminate the risk of someone cutting the cord to stop the feed.
Monitored security cameras
Security cameras that are part of a monitored security system usually have the same features and options as stand-alone cameras.
But one advantage of ordering your camera as part of a whole-home security system is that you needn’t worry about the details of each specific camera—you can tap into the expertise of the home security company for help picking the right cameras to protect your home.
Plus, monitored security cameras come with the added reassurance of extra eyes on your home and loved ones. That means someone will be looking out for trouble 24/7, so you can close out your camera’s app and get a good night’s sleep.
Security camera FAQ
What should I look for when buying a security camera?
Here are some important features to consider when buying home security cameras:
Video resolution
Resolution directly affects the quality of the home security footage your camera produces. A clear image provides crucial details to help identify faces, vehicles, and items in a recording. At a minimum, choose a camera with 720p resolution, but we suggest 1080p or higher.
Field of view
Field of view refers to how much area a camera sees through its lens. It affects how many cameras you need and where you should place them. In general, choose a camera with a field of view that’s at least 110ยบ, though wider angles than this are usually better.
Motion detection
Most security cameras offer motion alerts to help prevent break-ins and keep deliveries safe. You receive notifications when a camera observes movement, so you can react appropriately. Choose a motion sensor camera with many settings to get the most from its motion detection.
Night vision
Security camera footage that is too dark to make out any details is practically useless. The distance your camera can see in low- to no-light situations impacts its effectiveness after the sun sets. To cover your bases, choose a camera with adequate night vision range.
Keep indoor cameras away from windows
Two-way audio
Cameras with two-way communication have a microphone and speaker for interacting with people or pets on the other end. Two-way talk effectively turns your home security camera into an intercom for addressing a delivery driver or checking in on the kids after school.
Pan and tilt
A pan-and-tilt camera has motors that allow you to reposition the camera’s lens remotely. This feature records a larger area than a static camera and reduces the number of cameras you need to observe a particular area.
Movement tracking
Are home security cameras worth it?
Absolutely! Home security cameras allow you to more effectively watch over your home in two primary ways:
- Deter: A security camera in a highly visible location can make burglars think twice about attempting to enter your home.
- Describe: Security cameras can collect information about burglars and the items they take. This makes it easier to file police reports and insurance claims.
The best part is that you choose how much to spend on security cameras for your home.
How much should I spend on a security camera?
If a camera costs so much that you can no longer afford the valuables you’re trying to protect, then it doesn’t serve a purpose.
Fortunately, we live in an age where practically everyone can afford security cameras. In fact, many cheap security cameras cost less than $50 while providing HD video, motion detection, smartphone apps, and two-way audio.
With more expensive cameras, you can expect better features and stronger customer support. Ultimately, it’s your choice how much you want to invest for a certain level of security.
Cost of cameras in monitored security systems
Do you need Wi-Fi for security cameras?
Most of the time. Modern security cameras use Wi-Fi for five tasks:
- Streaming live video
- Storing footage in the cloud
- Mobile app controls and alerts
- Two-way voice
- Communication with smart home devices
The majority of consumer security cameras use Wi-Fi to connect to your home network, but some models use cables to connect to your internet router or a DVR for security cameras. We recommend using Wi-Fi security cameras since they are typically the easiest kind to install.
Internet data caps
Can I use security cameras with my smart home devices?
Many of the best security camera systems also help turn your house into a smart home. Security cameras often integrate with a smart home hub like Amazon Echo or Google Home.
This can give you a huge home security advantage—the ability to remotely control lights, door locks, and your security cameras. You can also program your system to boost security measures when you’re out of town or during the holidays when lots of packages arrive.
Disclaimer
*Amazon.com list price as of 08/21/2020 at 12:00 p.m. (MT). Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. Safewise.com utilizes paid Amazon links.
Certain content that appears on this site comes from Amazon. This content is provided “as is” and is subject to change or removal at any time.
†Vivint Ping camera not sold separately; requires a Vivint home security system.
‡Google, Google Nest, Google Assistant, Google Home, and other related marks are trademarks of Google LLC.
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