Modern home security camera systems do more than show you real-time video. They can send alerts to your phone even when you’re miles away to keep you aware of any would-be burglars, or they can even allow you to communicate without showing yourself through two-way audio. While many of them have similar features, they are all different in their own ways. To help narrow down your choices, let’s dive into our curated list as we break down the best security cameras out there.
Ring Stick Up Cam Battery HD security camera
Best Overall
Without any wires to constrict its position, Ring’s battery-powered home security camera will allow you to keep an eye on crucial areas with ease. You have the option of simply placing it on top of a flat surface like a table, or you could mount it on a wall with a bracket for a better field of view. Once mounted, enabling the camera is as simple as connecting it to your WiFi network and walking through the set up instructions in Ring’s free mobile app. The battery that powers the camera can go for months between charges, making it perfect for those who are often on the road.
As for features, Ring’s Stick Up isn’t lacking. The Ring app lets you access these features straight from the comfort of your smartphone regardless of whether you are home or not. You can conveniently view any Stick Up camera linked to your Ring devices with a few taps. An advanced motion detection system keeps you on your toes even if you’re halfway across the globe as it sends you instant notifications when it sees movement in specified zones. A two-way audio system even lets you communicate with any person within earshot of the speakers so that you can keep yourself safe or comfy. With Ring’s Protect plans you can store the footage to review later, and you can even share it with friends and family if you need with just a few taps from the app.
Why we love it:
- Compatible with your Alexa
- Highly customizable privacy settings
- High-quality, 1080p video
- Weather-resistant exterior
Blink Mini
Best Value
Peace of mind need not be expensive and cumbersome with Blink’s Mini home security camera. While the camera itself is a bit small, it doesn’t compromise on features. With the Blink Mini you’ll get 1080p video that allows you to see crisp and clean details live from your phone. It also has a two-way audio system that lets you instantly talk to your pets or people in the camera’s vicinity, even if you’re on vacation. You can even set up detection zones where the camera will alert you directly if it sees any movement in the designated area and nowhere else for more controlled and pinpoint security.
All those features come with the camera without hassling you with complicated setup and manuals. A quick installation process measured in minutes is all you need to get your peace of mind. You can even increase the camera’s features with a subscription that allows you to save videos in a secure and fully accessible cloud for convenience. However, there is always the option of local data storage as this affordable camera won’t force you to shell out any cash by any means.
Why we love it:
- Free 30-day subscription trial
- Clear video even in low-light conditions
- Works well with Alexa
ANNKE 5MP Lite Security Camera System
Best Outdoor System
Securing the perimeter of your home is as important as keeping the interior safe, and you can do both by wiring up ANNKE’s security system to your property. You can keep an eye out on the most vulnerable parts of your home and then some thanks to the eight IP66 waterproof cameras that come with this system. Each camera streams clear 1080p video during the day, and you also won’t have to worry even when things go dark at night. The cameras still show highly detailed video in dim conditions with its 100-feet night vision and smart Infrared that clears away any visual clutter from the image.
The system comes with a professional-grade hard drive that collects up to one terabyte of footage that you can examine whenever you need to. The DVR does more than store video if you link it up to a WiFi network and download the manufacturer’s app on your smartphone. Once paired, you’ll be able to view any camera’s feed remotely, and the system will even alert you with a snapshot when it detects any unusual movement. Its motion detection is even sophisticated enough to detect motion in specific areas if you configure it that way, making it perfect for backdoors, attics, and basements.
Why we love it:
- The highly secured hard drive keeps all your data safe
- Durable and weatherproof cameras
- Space-saving H.265+ video format
TETHYS Wireless Security Camera
Best Alexa Integration
Having a central hub for all your home’s appliances will make management effortless, and that includes your security system. TETHYS’ camera seamlessly links up to Alexa to give you an easy way to manage your safety. With this camera, you’ll be able to survey your home without any issues, thanks to its 1080p HD image quality that doesn’t degrade whether it’s day or night. The lens itself even rotates at 250-degrees horizontally and 100-degrees vertically to give you a fuller view of the surroundings. You also have the freedom to store the footage in a cloud or a physical micro SD card.
In line with the theme of user-friendliness, the app lets you control every camera feature from the palm of your hands. These features include an image gallery, a two-way speaker, and even real-time motion alerts so that you’re always aware of what’s happening in your home. And, it doesn’t even stop there; as mentioned above, this camera is perfectly compatible with Alexa. Once linked up with
Why we love it:
- Panning and tilting camera allows for better field of view
- Can see up to 32-feet in the dark
- Straightforward installation process
Wyze Cam v3
Best Versatile
If you want something that fits any situation, you can’t go wrong with Wyze’s home security camera. You get vivid 1080p video at any time of the day or night. Yes, even at night, and that’s thanks to the Starlight sensor that lights up any dim video like the scene is flooded with light, even if it isn’t. Also, with this camera, you’ll be able to watch over your home’s interior as well as its exterior. The IP65 waterproofing allows the camera to survive any outdoor weather condition to provide you with a clear view of your surroundings.
The camera also has multiple software features that will make your life a bit more convenient. The camera’s motion and sound detection system keeps you up-to-date if there’s any suspicious activity in the camera’s vicinity. It immediately sends an alarm to your smartphone to let you know what’s occurring in your home, even if you’re far away. If you position this camera next to your front door, a two-way audio system lets you communicate with unexpected guests and the remotely activated siren in this camera lets you send a warning when people get too close.
Why we love it:
- 1080p Full-HD video streaming
- Bright and vivid colors even in low-light conditions
- The compact size makes it easy to hide
Now that you know which are the top home security cameras, it’s time to protect your home and increase your peace of mind with the help of motion tracking, two-way communication, and night vision.
Why should I get a security camera system in my home?
We tend to do numerous things every day, and being vigilant about everything is impossible without a bit of help. A security system aids you in keeping you and your home safe from unwanted guests. Some cameras even alert you immediately when it senses that something is off so that you’re always prepared no matter the scenario. Plus, home cameras serve double duty as baby monitors, pet cameras, and even as high-tech peepholes that let you talk to the mailman or your guests before permitting them in.
How can a security system be useful besides showing me that something was stolen?
Data has supported that simply having a security system will effectively deter most burglars from trying to break into your home. According to research, 83% of burglars will stake out a home for a security system before attempting to steal from the homeowners. That means that having a camera security system isn’t only beneficial after a crime as a source of primary evidence, but also before the fact as it will deter a substantial amount of would-be thieves.
Is installing a security camera system in your home expensive?
With the advances in technology, getting a robust camera system in your home won’t cost you that much. While there are variances in price across systems, most won’t reach a grand in price, excluding installation. A simple one-camera setup can even cost as low as ten cups of coffee. With how affordable camera systems are now, there’s little excuse to not get one, especially with the peace of mind and security it can give you.
