The best home security cameras give you that quiet kind of confidence. The kind you feel when you are tucked in bed, away for work, or halfway through a holiday and suddenly remember you did not check the garage door. Today’s cameras are not the clunky CCTV setups of old. They are smaller, smarter, easier to install, and thankfully more affordable. Many can now tell the difference between people and “things”, cut down false alerts, and even help you spot faces or read a plate when it matters.
Below are our current top picks for outdoor and indoor cameras, with options across budgets, power types, and ecosystems.
Top Outdoor Security Cameras
Top choice: eufyCam 3 (S330)
If you want one outdoor camera system that covers most homes really well, this is the one. The eufyCam 3 records in 4K (3840×2160), which means you can zoom in without turning faces into pixels, and it is paired with HomeBase 3 and 16GB of local storage right out of the box.
The real flex is power. Each camera has a 365 day rated battery and an integrated solar panel, with eufy noting that around two hours of daily direct sunlight can keep it topped up for near infinite runtime. Less ladder time means better security habits.
You are also getting smart filtering with BionicMind recognition so it is not alerting you every time someone familiar walks past, plus two way audio and motion spotlight support for clearer nighttime clips and a bit of deterrence.
Resolution: 4K Ultra HD - Field of View: 135° - Night Vision: Infrared & Colour (5-8m) - Water Resistance: IP67 Weatherproof - Local Storage: Up to 16TB - Subscription: Optional - Smart Assistant Compatible: Amazon Alexa and Google Home - Wiring: Wire-Free - Battery Life: Up to 1 Year + Integrated Solar Panel To Further Prolong Charge - Homebase/Hub: Required - Wi-Fi Connection: 2.4GHz/5Ghz
Top choice: Arlo Ultra 3
Where eufy wins on set and forget local storage, Arlo’s Ultra 3 wins on sheer coverage and polish. You are looking at 4K HDR video with a 180° diagonal field of view, which is brilliant for wide driveways, front yards, or anywhere you would rather not mount two cameras.
Arlo also includes the premium features: colour night vision, an integrated spotlight, 12× digital zoom, two way audio with noise reduction, and Auto Zoom and Tracking to keep moving subjects framed.
It is wire free and runs on a rechargeable battery with Arlo quoting up to six months depending on use. In common multi camera bundles you will typically get the SmartHub included, which opens the door to local storage via microSD.
Installation is wire-free and hassle-free, and the camera runs on a rechargeable battery with up to 6 months of life per charge. With its superior resolution and wider field of view, the Ultra 3 outshines most competitors, making it an excellent choice for those who want the best in outdoor security.
Resolution: 4K UHD - Field of View: 180° - Night Vision: Infrared & Colour - Water Resistance: IP65 Weatherproof - Local Storage: Available via SmartHub - Subscription: Required for Cloud Storage - Wiring: Wire-Free - Battery Life: Up to 6 Months - Homebase/Hub: Required - Wi-Fi Connection: 2.4GHz/5Ghz
Solar powered option: Baseus Security X1 Pro
This one’s built for wide coverage without the wiring hassle. The Baseus Security X1 Pro is a wire-free, solar-powered outdoor camera with a 7,800mAh battery, IP65 weather resistance, and an operating range from -20°C to 50°C, making it well suited to year-round outdoor use.
Its standout feature is the dual-lens, dual-tracking setup. With dual 3K cameras and AI relay tracking, the X1 Pro can monitor two areas at once while delivering up to 300° pan coverage, ideal for keeping tabs on both context and close-up activity without constant repositioning.
You also get colour or black-and-white night vision, up to 8× digital zoom, and real-time two-way audio for quick interactions. Privacy is handled sensibly with two activity zones and two privacy zones, while AI detection helps keep alerts focused.
Footage is stored locally via microSD (up to 512GB), with no subscription required, rounding out a flexible, high-coverage option for solar-powered outdoor security.
Resolution: 3K - Night Vision: Colour - Weather Rating: IP65 - Local Storage: Yes - Subscription: Not required - Wiring: Wireless - Two-Way Audio: Yes
Wired option: TP Link Tapo C320WS
If you are happy to run power, or you already have it where you want to mount, the C320WS is one of the easiest set it and forget it value picks. It records in 2K QHD (2560×1440) via a 4MP sensor, supports full colour night vision, and has a spotlight plus sound and light alarm to help discourage anyone snooping around your property.
Storage is straightforward. Insert a microSD card up to 512GB and you are set, with no mandatory subscription just to keep your own clips. You can connect via 2.4GHz Wi Fi or Ethernet for more flexible installs.
Bonus points for built-in person and vehicle detection, and an IP66 weather rating for outdoor use.
Resolution: 2K QHD - Field of View: 130° - Night Vision: Infrared & Colour - Water Resistance: IP66 Weatherproof - Local Storage: Up to 256GB - Subscription: Optional - Smart Assistant Compatible: Amazon Alexa and Google - Wiring: Wired - Battery Life: N/A - Homebase/Hub: No - Wi-Fi Connection: 2.4GHz
Doorbell camera: Ring Battery Video Doorbell (Head to Toe)
Doorbells are the most used cameras in a house because they are the one thing everyone walks up to and interacts with. Ring’s Battery Video Doorbell keeps things simple and handles the fundamentals well. You get Head to Toe HD video at 1440×1440 so you can see faces and parcels left at your feet, plus two way talk, motion alerts, and custom motion zones.
It is battery powered with USB C charging, which is convenient if you are renting or do not want to deal with wiring. If you are already using Alexa devices, Ring fits in neatly.
Just note that if you want longer video history and easy clip saving, Ring’s recording features typically rely on a Ring Protect subscription. Live View and alerts still work without it, but recordings are where the plan matters most.
Resolution: 1440 x 1440 HD Field of View: 150° horizontal, 150° vertical Night Vision: 1080p HD Weather Resistance: IP65 Weatherproof Subscription: Optional Wiring: Wire-Free Battery Life: Dependant on usage Homebase/Hub: No Wi-Fi Connection: 2.4GHz
Top Indoor Security Cameras
Top choice: TP Link Tapo C200
If you want one indoor camera that can cover a whole room without fuss, the C200 is the easy pick. You get 1080p Full HD, plus a proper pan and tilt range at 360° horizontal and 114° vertical, so it can scan corners and follow movement. It is handy for living rooms, hallways, nurseries, or quick pet checks.
It supports two way audio, advanced night vision, and local recording via microSD up to 512GB. It also supports features like baby crying detection and motion tracking within the Tapo ecosystem.
Resolution: 1080p FHD - Field of View: 114° vertical+ 360° horizontal - Night Vision: Infrared (Black & White) - Weather Rating: Indoor Use Only - Local Storage: Up to 128GB - Subscription: Optional - Smart Assistant Compatible: Yes - Wiring: Wired - Two-Way Audio: Yes - Wi-Fi Connection: 2.4GHz Only
Top choice: EZVIZ H6c Pro 2K+
EZVIZ has quietly become one of the best feature per dollar indoor options, and the H6c Pro 2K+ is a great example. You get 2K+ resolution (2560×1440), pan and tilt coverage, human shape detection, and loud noise detection. That is genuinely useful if you are using it as a baby or pet cam or just want extra awareness.
Where it feels more premium than expected is in the smarts. EZVIZ lists Patrol Mode so it can sweep the room, auto zoom tracking, and support for dual band Wi Fi at 2.4GHz and 5GHz for more stable performance on busy home networks.
It records to microSD up to 512GB, with cloud storage also available through EZVIZ if you want off site backup.
Resolution: 2K+ - Pan and tilt coverage: 340° horizontal and 55° vertical - Night Vision: Colour - Local Storage: Micro SD - Subscription: Yes - Two-Way Audio: Yes - Wi-Fi Connection: 2.4GHz
Pan and tilt camera: Eufy Indoor Cam Pro (E220)
If you already like the eufy ecosystem, or you want a straightforward app experience, the E220 is a tidy indoor pick. It captures in 2K, can pan and tilt for full room coverage, and uses on device AI to spot meaningful movement including differentiating between humans and pets.
You get two way audio, night vision, and local storage support via microSD up to 128GB.
Resolution: 2K QHD - Field of View: 125° + Pans 360° - Night Vision: Infrared - Weather Rating: Indoor Use Only - Local Storage: Up to 128GB - Subscription: Optional - Smart Assistant Compatible: Yes - Wiring: Wired - Two-Way Audio: Yes - Wi-Fi Connection: 2.4GHz Only
Entry level: TP Link Tapo C100
For a basic, reliable keep an eye on one room camera, the C100 still punches above its price. It records in 1080p, has two way audio, and advanced night vision. It is great for checking on pets, monitoring a front room, or adding a simple extra set of eyes when you are not home.
It supports microSD recording up to 512GB and runs on 2.4GHz Wi Fi, which suits most standard home networks.
Resolution: 1080p FHD - Field of View: 105° - Night Vision: Infrared (Black & White) - Weather Rating: Indoor Use Only - Local Storage: Up to 128GB - Subscription: Optional - Smart Assistant Compatible: N/A - Wiring: Wired - Two-Way Audio: Yes - Wi-Fi Connection: 2.4GHz Only
How Should You Choose a Home Security Camera?
There’s a great selection of high-quality and fairly affordable cameras to choose from, so now that we've taken a look at our top picks, let’s go over what factors to consider when choosing the best option for you.
- Resolution: Resolution plays a crucial role in image quality. You should aim for something that is at least 1080p (Full HD) resolution in order to have clear images. However, cameras with higher resolutions, such as 2K or 4K, offer greater clarity and image detail, which helps with zooming and improving the accuracy of identifying faces and license plates.
- Field of View: The FOV determines how much area the camera can cover horizontally. An FOV between 100-180 degrees is optimal, as it allows you to monitor wide spaces with fewer blind spots. Some cameras also come with PTZ (pan, tilt, zoom) functions, offering more flexible coverage.
- Night Vision: Night vision capabilities allow cameras to record effectively in low-light or dark conditions. Infrared (IR) LEDs produce black-and-white images in darkness, while color night vision or starlight sensors capture color images in low-light conditions. The range of night vision is also critical, so look for cameras covering 30 feet (9 meters) or more.
- Motion Detection: Motion-activated cameras are more efficient and minimise stored footage. Customizable activity zones, sensitivity levels, and alert scheduling can help reduce false alarms from pets or regular activity. AI-based detection (e.g. person, vehicle, or animal detection) can further improve accuracy.
- Storage: Many security cameras provide local storage via an SD card, which usually doesn't require a monthly subscription. However, this method can be limited by storage capacity, and the card may be stolen or damaged. Cloud storage allows remote access to your footage, backup, and larger storage capacity, but typically comes with a monthly or annual fee.
- Smart Home Integration: Integration with smart home platforms like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit enables voice control and connectivity with other smart devices for home automation. For example, you can create routines that turn on lights when movement is detected or lock doors when a camera detects an unfamiliar person.
- Wired vs. Wireless: Wireless cameras and battery-powered cameras typically offer easy DIY installation, but will typically also cost slightly more. Others may require a wired connection and if you’re not tech savvy, the help of a professional to install it (for outdoor cameras). The plus side is they don’t need to be charged, are typically a bit cheaper, or will offer better features compared to a wireless camera of the same price.
- Other Features: Consider other features that are worth having. Two-way audio communication, for example, is particularly useful for interacting with family members, pets, or visitors. Features like siren and spotlight can be useful for scaring off intruders.
- Price: Home security camera prices vary widely based on features, quality, and brand reputation. Balance your budget with your requirements to find a camera that both meets your security needs and is cost-effective. Also keep in mind that investing in good-quality cameras and systems can save money in the long run by reducing maintenance and replacement needs.
Ready to step up your home security?
Whether you want a fully loaded outdoor system like the eufyCam 3, a premium wide-angle setup like the Arlo Ultra 3, or a simple indoor cam that will not blow the budget like the Tapo C100, there is a solid option here for almost every home and routine.
For more options, including mounts, microSD cards, hubs, and smart home gear to tie it all together, check out PB Tech’s Smart Home and Security range.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which camera is best for home security?
The best home security camera varies based on individual preferences and requirements. Popular options include security cameras from brands such as Eufy, Arlo, Ring and TP-Link. Consider features such as resolution, field of view, night vision, motion detection, storage options, and smart home integration when choosing the best one for you - we've covered these in more detail earlier on in the article.
Is it better it have wired or wireless security cameras?
Both wired and wire-free security cameras each have their pros and cons. Wired cameras have a stable and reliable connection; a constant power source; and deliver high-quality video and audio for less. However, they have a more complex installation process compared to wire-free cameras. Wire-free cameras offer easier installation and flexibility in terms of placement, but they typically run on batteries, requiring regular replacement or recharging. Additionally, they can be affected by Wi-Fi signal strength and interference, which may lead to limited features due to battery and connection limitations.
Ultimately, it comes down to your individual preferences and needs. For some, wired cameras are better, for others (particularly those who rent) wire-free cameras are better. To decide which type is best for your needs, the main consider factors you'll likely want to consider is installation complexity, camera placement, price and the features/benefits that matter most to you for your security system.
How many security cameras do I need around my house?
The number of security cameras needed depends on house size, layout, and desired coverage areas. For complete and comprehensive coverage, 3-6 cameras are recommended: installing one at each main entrance, near garage or driveway, and covering vulnerable spots or blind spots. However, for basic coverage, aim to at least cover main entrances, in which case, 1-3 should suffice. In these cases, a security camera with a wide Field of View will be helpful in providing as much coverage as possible from a single camera.
Do security cameras put off burglars?
Yes, security cameras can deter burglars. Visible cameras make your home less appealing to intruders because they increase the risk of being caught or identified. While they may not prevent all break-ins, they can encourage would-be burglars to choose an easier target without cameras.
Do I need to pay a subscription to use these cameras?
It depends on the brand and model! A subscription is not always necessary to use home security cameras. Many cameras offer basic features and local storage without a subscription. However, subscriptions are often offered for additional features like cloud storage, advanced analytics, or professional monitoring. It depends on the camera brand and/or desired features whether a subscription is needed. Always check the manufacturer's details before purchasing.
Do outdoor security cameras need internet?
Outdoor security cameras can function without internet if they record footage locally on a storage device like a microSD card or a Network Video Recorder (NVR). However, an internet connection is required for remote viewing, receiving alerts, and software updates.
Should you put security cameras in your house?
Installing security cameras in your house can provide added safety and peace of mind. Key areas to consider installing cameras include entry doors, common living areas, where valuables are kept, and if you have a baby - in the nursery (indoor cameras make great baby monitors). However, be sure to respect privacy and avoid placing cameras in places like bathrooms or bedrooms where privacy is expected. Additionally, be sure to obtain consent from others living in the house, and inform any guests of the presence of cameras.
