Now is the perfect time to be looking into security cameras.
With improvements in technology and decreasing prices, setting up a DIY security system has never been easier.
Below are some of the best security cameras this year designed to meet various needs. Whether you need indoor or outdoor cameras, baby monitors, or something discreet to keep an eye on things, these options can cover most – if not all – of your requirements.
Choosing Wireless Security Cameras Like a Pro!
Night Vision: A top-notch wireless security camera doesn’t sleep when the sun goes down—it seamlessly transitions to night mode, capturing all the action in the dark. Whether it’s LED lights, infrared, or a combo, look for a cam that keeps its eyes open even in low light.
High-Quality Video Recording: When it comes to catching the bad guys (or just nosy neighbors), clarity is key. Most wireless cams rock at least 720p resolution, but the real MVPs hit 1080p. Crisp footage means clearer faces and smoother playback, so aim high for the best visuals.
Audio Recording/Two-Way Audio: Want to eavesdrop on the dog’s conspiracy theories while you’re out? Opt for a cam with one-way audio recording. But if you’re feeling chatty and want to dish out commands to pets or family members, go for the two-way audio option.
Motion Detection: A cam with motion detection is like having a silent watchdog. It’ll start recording the moment anything moves within its sights. Bonus points if it can ping your phone with alerts or sync up with your schedule to know when to be on high alert.
User-Friendly App: Your cam’s app is like its trusty sidekick—always by your side, ready to spring into action. Make sure it plays nice with your phone (iOS or Android), and check for a slick interface that makes streaming and reviewing footage a breeze. Oh, and watch out for any sneaky extra fees for premium features—ain’t nobody got time for that!
Top Security Cameras of 2024
Lorex
Looking for a solid security camera? The Lorex 4K Spotlight Indoor/Outdoor Wi-Fi 6 Security Camera might just be what you need. Priced at $200, it boasts impressive 4K video, color night vision, voice controls, dual-band Wi-Fi, and microSD card storage.
Design-wise, a sturdy matte white cylinder, it’s weatherproof (IP65), and comes with a 32GB microSD card, expandable up to 256GB. It’s got a built-in siren and dual warning LED spotlights, and you can even change the light color for some customisable flair. The dual-band Wi-Fi 6 is cool, but Wi-Fi 6e would have been even cooler.
The 8MP image sensor delivers sharp 4K video with a 140-degree field of view. It shines in low-light with Color Night Vision Booster tech and switches to infrared for black-and-white when it’s super dark. It has motion detection is smart enough to differentiate between people, animals, vehicles, and packages.
Controlling the camera is a breeze with the Lorex Home app. It’s got all the usual suspects – live streaming, event viewing, and setting configurations. You can tweak motion sensitivity, enable sound detection, and set custom alerts. Plus, it supports Alexa and Google Assistant for some handy voice commands.
Installation is straightforward. Plug it in, scan the QR code with the app, set your Wi-Fi, and mount it. The camera’s stunning 4K video quality is a highlight, with crisp, bright images both day and night. It also responds instantly to Alexa and Google Assistant commands.
Arlo Pro 5S
Looking for a security camera that does it all and then more? Meet the Arlo Pro 5S, your new best friend in home surveillance. This little guy is loaded with so many features, you’ll be hard-pressed to find something it can’t handle.
Want crystal-clear images? You got it, thanks to its up-to-2K resolution with HDR, color night vision, and digital zoom. With a 160-degree field of view, it’s like having eyes in the back of your head, but way cooler.
But wait, there’s more! This camera comes with two-way audio, so you can chat with visitors (or scare off intruders), and smart alerts with detection zones to keep you in the loop about what’s happening.
Arlo’s motion detection is top-notch, recognizing everything from people to packages and even triggering a built-in spotlight when it’s dark. Plus, it laughs in the face of bad weather, operating smoothly down to a chilly minus 4 degrees Fahrenheit.
Thinking about placement? No problem. Use it indoors or out, and if you’re not into recharging batteries, you can hook it up with an indoor cable (outdoor-rated cables are sold separately).
Here’s the catch for the thrifty folks: the subscription fee. The Arlo Secure plan is almost a must-have to unlock the camera’s full potential, offering 2K streaming, cloud recording, and even 24/7 emergency responses. Sure, you can go for local storage, but you’ll need to shell out for a compatible SmartHub or Base Station, adding to the initial cost.
Google Nest Cam (2nd-gen)
If you’re on the hunt for a versatile security camera, the Google Nest Cam (2nd-gen) has got you covered.
You can stick this battery-powered beauty just about anywhere, inside or out, and unless you live in an arctic tundra, it’ll handle the weather like a champ.
Versatility is its middle name, and paired with Google’s AI detection, it becomes a powerhouse of smart alerts. It can spot people, animals, vehicles, and (with a subscription) familiar faces, so you only get the alerts that matter.
This 1080p cam doesn’t skimp on the essentials either. It’s got two-way audio and night vision with HDR, making sure you’re covered day and night. Plus, the magnetic base design is super handy—you can just pop the cam off for a quick recharge when the battery’s low.
Even though it’s a Google Home cam, it plays nice with Alexa too if you’re more into Amazon’s ecosystem.
One of the standout features here is the video storage deal. Unlike many other cams, Google Nest gives you three hours of video storage for free. No subscription necessary to enjoy some cloud video goodness. But, fair warning—you’ve got a three-hour window to act on those recordings before they vanish if you don’t have a subscription.
TP-Link Tapo Pan/Tilt C210 Camera
Not all top-notch security cameras have to break the bank.
Enter the TP-Link Tapo Pan/Tilt C210 Camera, your budget-friendly indoor security solution. For less than $30, this little wonder offers pan and tilt capabilities, allowing you to cover an entire room through easy app controls.
Don’t let the price fool you—this camera packs in some serious features. Two-way audio? Check. Built-in siren? Check. 30-foot night vision? You bet. It even boasts motion and audio detection, so you’ll get alerts for any unexpected movements or noises. Perfect for keeping an eye on an open floor plan, monitoring a playroom, or even doubling as a baby cam.
A cool bonus is the ability to split live viewing between two devices simultaneously, so both you and your partner can keep tabs on things at the same time. While the Tapo C210 might not be the crème de la crème of pan/tilt models (that honor goes to the Eufy S350), it’s unbeatable for the price, offering a slew of security features that won’t leave your wallet weeping.
When it comes to storing your video footage, you’ve got options. Pop in a microSD card for local storage, or go for the Tapo Care plan, which starts at a mere $3.50 per month. All in all, the Tapo C210 is a steal for anyone looking to beef up their home security on a budget.
Eufy S350, Your Indoor Companion
Meet the eufy Security Indoor Cam Eufy S350—your new bestie for keeping an eye on things at home. This little gem packs dual cameras and 4K UHD resolution, giving you crystal-clear views of every nook and cranny.
Whether it’s keeping tabs on your furry friends or just making sure everything’s in order, this cam’s got you covered with stunning clarity. The 4K wide-angle and 2K telephoto cameras team up to deliver an impressive 8× hybrid zoom—so you won’t miss a thing.
Thanks to its 360° pan and tilt capabilities, there are no blind spots in your surveillance game. Perfect for those moments when you need to check in on your mischievous pup or curious kitty.
And let’s talk about low-light situations—no problemo! With an f/1.6 aperture sensor and two high-powered infrared LED lights, this cam illuminates faces up to 32 feet away, even in the darkest corners.
But here’s where it gets really cool: powered by eufy Security’s own algorithm, this cam can track family members or pets as they move around the room. It’s like having a personal assistant for home security.
Just a heads up: the Indoor Cam S350 plays nice with HomeBase 3 (running firmware version 3.3.2.6 or later), but it’s a no-go with HomeBase 2. So, make sure you’re all synced up for maximum awesomeness!
Ring Stick Up Cam (2nd-gen)
Do you know what the beauty of mobile wireless camera is? You can plop them down anywhere you please—whether it’s the sunroom, playroom, kitchen, or living room. And the Ring Stick Up Cam takes it a step further, letting you move it outside to your deck or patio without sweating the weather.
This cam’s got the goods: motion detection with alerts, two-way audio, and customizable motion or privacy zones to zero in on what matters. There’s a nifty home/away feature too, which helps save battery when you’re chilling at home. Plus, if you find the sweet spot for your cam, it comes with a wall mount for easy setup.
For those looking to splurge, there’s the Ring Stick Up Cam Pro, which packs even more features but comes with a hefty price tag. No matter which model you choose, be prepared to factor in the cost of the Ring Protect subscription. It’s pretty much essential if you want to save videos, use person recognition, or activate those handy home/away modes. Without it, you’re missing out on a lot of what makes this cam awesome.
EZVIZ eLife
Get ready to meet your home’s new guardian angel—the EZVIZ eLife 4MP camera! With enough battery life to outlast a Netflix binge (up to 270 days, to be exact), this wire-free wonder is here to keep your castle safe and sound.
Loaded with more features than a Swiss Army knife, the EZVIZ eLife 4MP doesn’t mess around when it comes to security. Say goodbye to grainy footage with its crystal-clear 2K+ resolution—because when it comes to catching culprits, every pixel counts!
And who needs a watchdog when you’ve got Smart Human Motion Detection? This camera can tell the difference between a raccoon raiding your trash and a suspicious character casing your joint—no false alarms here!
But wait, there’s more! Color Night Vision means you’ll see more than just shadows in the dark. Customize your camera’s voice alerts to greet guests or scare off intruders with your own personal touch. And with built-in storage, you can save all those “caught in the act” moments without needing a memory card.
Plus, with Two-Way Talk, you can have a chat with whoever’s at your door—whether it’s the pizza delivery guy or a package thief. And let’s not forget about its rugged design and weatherproofing—it’s like the Chuck Norris of security cameras, ready to take on anything Mother Nature throws its way!
So say goodbye to worries and hello to peace of mind with the EZVIZ eLife 4MP camera. Because when it comes to protecting your home, why settle for anything less than the best? They are a bit specific to UK region but I’m sure you will find a counterpart in the US or elsewhere.
Blink
If you need a discreet indoor camera or baby monitor, the Blink is an affordable solution.
If you’re after hassle-free, budget-friendly wireless cameras, Blink is the name to know. These cameras are great for both indoor and outdoor use, with prices starting at just $35. Despite the low cost, you get top-notch quality and a slew of handy features. Whether you need one-way or two-way audio, a motion sensor, customizable motion zones, or even a temperature sensor, Blink has you covered. Plus, if you’re an Alexa fan, you can arm and disarm these cameras with just your voice.
The Blink Indoor and Blink Outdoor cameras are both battery-powered and come equipped with a PIR motion sensor. While PIR sensors might not sound as fancy as person detection or facial recognition, they’re actually perfect for these cameras. They read heat signatures and only trigger when a living thing moves past, meaning fewer false alarms and longer battery life.
For storage, Blink offers affordable cloud options—$3 per month for one camera or $10 for unlimited cameras, similar to Ring’s pricing. Prefer local storage? No problem. With a Sync Module 2 hub and a USB flash drive, you can save your footage without any monthly fees.
In a nutshell, Blink security cameras are a fantastic choice if you want reliable, feature-packed security cameras without breaking the bank.
SimpliCam
Looking for a full security camera system?
Check out the SimpliSafe 9 Piece Wireless Home Security System. Why? Because It’s super easy to set up—no wiring, no drilling. Just plug in the base station and camera, place your sensors, and you’re good to go.
You get a free month of 24/7 professional monitoring with fast police response. This optional service starts at just 66 cents a day and doesn’t lock you into any contracts. Plus, you can control the whole system anytime, anywhere using the SimpliSafe App.
The SimpliCam lets you see what’s happening at home with ease and even has a privacy shutter. Entry sensors protect your windows, doors, and cabinets, and can even send secret alerts. Motion sensors cover a whole room, have a 90-degree field of view, and are pet-friendly, yay!
The base station comes with a 24-hour battery life and cellular backup to keep you protected even if the power or Wi-Fi goes out. The user-friendly, wireless keypad is smash-safe and backlit. And, for added convenience, the system works with Google Assistant and Alexa.
What’s not to love?
FAQs
What should I look for in security cameras?
Key features include resolution (preferably 1080p), night vision, two-way audio, and storage options (cloud or local).
Are cloud storage plans necessary?
Not always. Some security cameras support local storage via SD cards, which can be a cost-effective alternative.
How easy is it to set up these cameras?
Most of these cameras are designed for easy DIY setup, often taking less than 15 minutes to get started.