The best home security cameras will give you peace of mind as they keep a watchful eye on your home, family and pets. Whether you’re tucked away in bed or far from home on a work trip or vacation, a modern security system is a great way to keep your worries at bay. No longer do you need a clunky and expensive CCTV system to do this. Over the past two decades, security cameras have undergone significant advancements. Modern security cameras are compact, intelligent devices that are not only more affordable, but much easier to install and monitor. Many of them even boast enhanced features, such as distinguishing between people and objects, package delivery and pickup detection, and facial recognition. In this article, we’re going to share with you our Top Home Security Cameras featuring options for both outdoors and indoors, and covering a wide range of budgets.
To help you make the most informed decision, we recommend reading our tips on How to Choose a Home Security Camera. If you're already aware of what factors to consider, let's jump into our top picks!
Top 5 Outdoor Security Cameras
Best Overall Camera - eufyCam 3
The eufyCam 3 stands out as the best security camera for several reasons. Firstly, it offers 4K Ultra HD resolution, providing incredibly clear, sharp images, and detailed video quality. This top-notch resolution ensures the best chance of identifying and capturing any lurkers or unwanted visitors by enabling better facial recognition or license plate identification. It also provides customisable motion detection zones and smart human detection, reducing false alarms and ensuring focus on relevant security events. The BionicMind™ facial recognition feature will differentiate between family, friends and strangers to further filter alerts.
The 3 also has fantastic night vision capabilities with advanced infrared technology, a built-in starlight sensor and F1.4 aperture that allows more light and colour in. A motion activated spotlight helps to provide an even clearer image and can also deter would-be intruders as they approach your home. With these features, two-way talk, and more, you can rely on the 3 to provide maximum round-the-clock protection for your property. This is further supported by an exceptional 365-day battery life (up to 1 year), along with an integrated solar panel! Just two hours of daily direct sunlight will extend battery life to near-infinite power. The less down-time your camera needs, the better your security.
Another standout feature of the eufyCam 3 is that you get 16GB of local storage that's expandable up to 16TB with a hard drive. This means that you don’t have to worry about paying a monthly subscription fee just to use your camera and save your recordings! If you’d like to save your data to the cloud as well - so you can access it anytime, anywhere, from any device - you have the option of adding a eufySecurity subscription which saves recordings for 30 days. The eufyCam 3 is compatible for the smart home, with support for Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant, and Amazon Echo. Plus, installation is super easy and hassle-free with no wires!
If you don’t necessarily need all the best features and would prefer a more affordable option, check out the eufyCam 3C as an alternative! It doesn't have has long of a battery life (6 months as opposed to 1 year) or integrated solar panel charging, but it otherwise shares many of the same benefits of the eufyCam 3.
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
Best Runner-Up Camera - Arlo Pro 5
The Arlo Pro 5 is another top choice for an outdoor security camera system! This camera boasts 2K HDR video resolution, delivering clear, sharp and detailed images, and a super wide 160° field of view. Not everyone needs ultra high definition video and for most people, 2K will easily cut it. This camera offers great clarity for easy facial recognition, and the power to zoom 12x on every image helps to distinguish fine details, such as license plates or lurkers. It also features impressive colour night vision technology, capturing detailed footage not only during the day but also in low-light and dark conditions. Features like two-way audio, smart motion detection, customised detection zones, spotlight, built-in siren, and voice assistant compatibility are other features you’ll find here.
Monitoring the Pro 5 camera can be done from the ArloSecure app that keeps you conveniently connected to your home and family’s safety from your smartphone. ArloSecure lets you view your camera feed, access saved recordings, and even trigger things like an emergency response or the built-in siren. Recordings will be saved here for a monthly subscription fee and stored for up to 30 days. You can also opt to save clips to local storage with the use of an Arlo SmartHub or Base Station - as the Arlo Pro 5 doesn’t require a Base Station however, this is an additional purchase you’d have to make.
Being wire-free, installation and setup is simple and intuitive. It’s also battery-powered, with 6-8 months of battery life on a single charge. Although Arlo’s Ultra 2 cameras are technically better (due to higher resolution and wider field of view), we wanted to keep overall value in mind and this is why the Arlo Pro 5 gets our runner up spot for outdoor cameras.
Resolution: 2K QHD - Field of View: 160° - Night Vision: Infrared & Colour - Water Resistance: IP65 Weatherproof - Local Storage: Not Available - Subscription: Required - Smart Assistant Compatible: Alexa, Google, Apple HomeKit & More - Wiring: Wire-Free - Battery Life: Up to 8 Months - Homebase/Hub: Required - Wi-Fi Connection: 2.4GHz/5Ghz
Best Value Wire-Free Camera - Reolink Argus 3 Pro
If you only have one area of your property to cover and you’re looking for a great mid-range option, Reolink’s Argus 3 Pro is a fantastic choice. Despite being priced considerably cheaper than our prime picks, it still offers great specs and features! The Argus 3 Pro records in 2K resolution, offering clear and detailed visuals. Colour night vision and built-in spotlights ensures you get clear recordings whether it’s day time or night time. Additionally, it has many of the same features found in the former options including person/vehicle detection, two-way audio, smart alerts, siren, dual band Wi-Fi, IP65 weatherproof rating, and even a custom-voice alarm.
Powered by a rechargeable battery, the 3 Pro can work without any cables and run well even during a blackout. If you want to keep your battery-charged at all times, you can add a Reolink Solar Panel (sold separately) so you can set and forget. Footage is saved locally to a microSD card (up to 128GB). You can also choose for these to be uploaded to Reolink Cloud.
Resolution: 2K QHD - Field of View: 122° - Night Vision: Infrared & Colour - Water Resistance: IP65 Weatherproof - Local Storage: Up to 128GB - Subscription: Optional - Smart Assistant Compatible: Alexa & Google - Wiring: Wire-Free - Battery Life: Up to 3 Months - Homebase/Hub: No - Wi-Fi Connection:2.4GHz/5Ghz
Best Value Wired Camera - TP-Link Tapo C320WS
If working with wires doesn’t bother you and/or you’re looking for something that you don’t have to worry about charging, TP-Link’s Tapo C320WS is our best value wired option. This camera records in 2K QHD resolution, offering crisp, clear and detailed visuals; along with advanced colour night vision that provides a visual distance of up to 30m, even in total darkness. Additionally, this camera features motion detection and notifications, siren alarm, spotlight, two-way audio, and two-way audio
Recordings are saved locally to a microSD card (up to 256GB) and can be viewed via the dedicated Tapo app. There’s also the option to upload to Tapo Care - TP-Link’s cloud service. Keep in mind that this camera only supports the 2.4GHz frequency band so please check that your router is compatible.
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
Best Budget Camera - Reolink Argus Eco V2
If you don’t need all the best features and you’re more concerned about value, check out Reolink’s Argus Eco V2 Wire-Free Security Camera. This camera records in 1080p Full HD which still offers enough clarity to easily make out faces and details, while infrared LEDs ensure clear night vision too, albeit in black and white. Built-in PIR motion sensors will send you real-time alerts when motion is detected, and even trigger strong siren sounds to scare away potential intruders. A built-in mic and speaker also offer two-way audio, so you can hear and speak through the camera. Being wire-free, installation is easy with no hassles around wiring.
Footage from the Eco V2 will be uploaded to the Reolink Cloud - an encrypted cloud service that provides off-site backup of important moments and allows you to playback videos any time, anywhere. The free basic plan (limited to one per account) supports 1 camera and 7-day recording history. Alternatively, you can sign up to plans that start from 5 cameras supported and 30-day history for a monthly subscription.
Resolution: 1080p FHD - Field of View: 100° - Night Vision: Up to 10m (Black & White) - Water Resistance: IP65 Weatherproof - Local Storage: Up to 128GB - Subscription: Optional - Smart Assistant Compatible: Amazon Alexa and Google - Wiring: Wire-Free - Battery Life: Up to 3 Months - Homebase/Hub: No - Wi-Fi Connection: 2.4GHz
Top 5 Indoor Security Cameras
Best Wired Camera - EufyCam Indoor Pro - Tilt
If you’re looking for a high-quality yet reasonably priced indoor camera, the eufyCam Indoor Pro is our top pick! It records in 2K resolution to clearly capture what’s going on inside your home, and even performs in low-light settings and at night. Instant detection will send a push notification to you straight away when a motion is detected and human and pet AI will identify whether it’s a human or pet. The built-in AI will also notify you of excessive noise levels, making it a great choice to monitor your little one! The two-way communication feature will even let you hear and speak through the camera via your smartphone. Other features include customised activity zones, digital zoom, alarm, and support for Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. Footage is saved to local storage via a microSD card (up to 128GB).
Resolution: 2K QHD - Field of View: 125° - 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
Best Pan & Tilt Camera - EufyCam Indoor Pro - Pan & Tilt
The next camera on this list is the pan & tilt version of the eufyCam Indoor Pro. It offers all the same features as the former but with a couple of additions. This one not only tilts, but it also pans, delivering a 360° horizontal field of view with smart AI tracking. With this feature enabled, the camera will automatically pan and tilt to follow any action that is detected. Plus, being wired, you never have to worry about the battery going flat and recharging.
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
Best Wireless Camera - Google Nest Cam
The winner for our best wireless indoor camera is the Google Nest Cam (Battery). This camera records in 1080p Full HD resolution; along with infrared night vision that captures clear images in low light and darkness. It also offers 135° diagonal field of view, 6x digital zoom, and two-way audio. The features on this camera are great but what is notable is the dual-band WiFi. With both a 2.4GHz + 5GHz frequency band, it’s compatible with a wider range of routers and can switch between bands to optimise performance. This makes it the ideal choice for anyone who only has a 5GHz band available or wants a camera that can use dual frequency bands. To store footage for up to 60 days, a Nest Aware subscription is required. Otherwise, video is stored locally for up to 3 hours.
Resolution: 1080p FHD - Field of View: 135° - Night Vision: HDR Night Vision - Weather Rating: Indoor Use Only - Local Storage: Up to 3 Hours - Subscription: Recommended - Smart Assistant Compatible: Yes - Wiring: Wire-Free - Two-Way Audio: Yes - Wi-Fi Connection: 2.4GHz/5GHz
Best Value Indoor Camera - TP-Link Tapo C200
Even with a small budget, you can still get a quality indoor security camera! TP-Link’s Tapo C200 offers great value delivering 1080p high definition video, 860nm infrared night vision (with a visual distance of up to 9m), live view, two-way audio, and a 360° horizontal range to provide ultra wide coverage of your home - all for less than $100! Additionally, it has a privacy mode that lets you shut down surveillance when you need some privacy. Footage is stored locally to a microSD card (up to 128GB) which means you don’t have to spend extra on any subscription fees either! When it's in stock, we recommend checking the Tapo C210.
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
Best Basic Camera - TP Link Tapo C100
We had to add this one to the list as despite its super affordable price point, it offers solid performance! The TP-Link Tapo C100 is the perfect basic indoor camera for anyone who simply wants a watchful eye over a single room and isn't too fussed about any fancy features. That being said, the Tapo C100 has all the common ones you'd want, such as Motion Detection (which trigger notifications to your phone), Custom Motion Detection Zones, Night Vision, Two-Way Audio, and an Alarm System. It records in clear 1080p high definition video and beyond keeping an eye on things, it's a great way to capture memorable moments with pets, babies and loved ones. Footage is saved locally to a microSD card (up to 128GB - equal to about 16 days of footage).
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 before we jump into 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?
We hope this guide helped you find the best home security cameras! For more home security solutions, head over to our Smart Home & Security department.
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.
