Best Home Security System

If you’re a business traveler who spends more time outside of your home than you do in it, having the best home security cameras will give you some peace of mind. There are plenty of options to choose from: a nest security camera, a wired home security system, a floodlight camera, a CCTV camera, and more.

Before you purchase a surveillance camera don’t base your decision solely on security camera reviews. You must first take into consideration what your needs are. How long do you want the camera to record footage?

Would you rather use a DVR player to replay it or an easy-to-carry flash drive? Are you in an area that has constant rain and would never survive without waterproof protection?

Will this camera be in an area of your basement that is close to pipes (and again, risk of getting wet from plumbing emergencies)? Is your home already set up to properly display footage from wireless cameras, and is your connection strong enough to work for a Wi-Fi camera?

Have answers to these questions long before you purchase a wired home security system. You’ll save yourself a lot of unnecessary frustration from unpacking, installing and repacking cameras you don’t need. And if you’re not the handiest person in your home, you may want to pay attention to easy base installations versus those that require dragging out a ladder and a tool belt.

Once you’re prepared for the camera that makes sense for your home, check out these 12 options below to see if they fit the bill.

Top-Rated Home Security Cameras

1. HeimVision HM241

This Wi-Fi surveillance camera is motion-alert activated and allows for remote access so you can see what’s going on in your home, even if you’re not there.

Key Features

• 24/7 recording
• Waterproof (-20 degrees Celsius, or -4 degrees Fahrenheit)
• Wireless signal repeater (Wi-Fi, 2G, 3G, 4G)

With no hard disk needed, this 1080P HD dusk-tight camera can record crisp images, provide HD live video during the day and at night, and is a 2.0 megapixel bullet camera.

Enjoy up to 65 feet of night vision. For business travelers or those who just want to keep an extra eye on their homes, a detection plan can be set up for instant notifications

Pros

• Night vision
• Expandable system can support up to eight cameras

Cons

• Hard drive not included
• Wireless Internet connection still requires plugging in power supply

When it arrives, connect the NVR to your router, and download the free app “IP Pro” into your personal computer, pad, or smartphone.

2. Blink XT2

This camera doesn’t just let you see people and buzz them in. You can have two-way conversations through the Blink app on your smartphone and tablet. Just place or mount it inside or outside in a suitable area.

Key Features

• Four camera kit options (one, two, three, five)
• Two-way audio
• Combination of two-way talk, live view, motion recording

With its customizable motion detection and 110-degree diagonal angle, you can see strange activity as soon as it happens. View live streams, motion clips, set up smart reorders for batteries, and disarm your system with an Alexa-enabled device.

With up to 1080p HD video during the day and infrared HD night vision at night, this camera is suitable for day and night coverage.

Pros

• Extended battery life (two-years on two AA lithium batteries)
• Free cloud storage included (up to one year with no monthly fees or service contract required)

Cons

• One reviewer reported not being able to see more than 25 feet from his router
• Two-way audio in conflict with motion detector (guest must be absolutely still for it to work, according to one reviewer)

If you’re not thrilled about the idea of wires or hiring a professional for installation setup, no worries. There are no tools or wiring needed. It’s also covered by a one-year limited warranty and service included.

3. Reolink 16CH 5MP PoE

With remote access from anywhere and 24/7 recording, this security camera system works with videos immediately via its HDMI monitor.

Key Features

• 5 PM 16-Channel NVR Security System
• 3TB HDD for 7/24 Recording
• 80-degree viewing angle

With a 2560 x 1920 super HD detailed image and up to 100 feet for night vision video monitoring, this security camera should be able to provide clear viewing—up to 3 million more pixels than 1080P, with 300 percent more detail than 720P.

The digital system will keep real 5mp high-definition image via its 300-foot CAT6 ethernet cables. It can keep approximately 7 days of 24/7 videos for eight cameras simultaneously, without overwriting.

Pros

• Metal housing and lid provides waterproof protection
• Daylight sensor with day/night auto-switch

Cons

• Requires some installation knowledge; not just a sit-and-plug camera
• One reviewer’s camera had a short in it and burned where the ethernet/power cable plugs in

This camera is backed by a two-year warranty from its original purchase date. Any defective unit (within the warranty period) will be repaired without charge for parts or labor or replaced at the sole discretion of Reolink.

4. Goowls

This outdoor surveillance camera, with night vision, allows you to monitor all activity at your door and have two-way audio conversations as needed.

Key Features

• 1080P full HD and wide-angle
• RJ-45 Ethernet port
• TF card slot/reset button

This wireless camera with a 360-degree pan/tilt moves by motion detection and has alert cloud service. With 12 infrared LED lights, this camera has a night-vision distance of up to 32 feet.

The 110-vertical rotation range allows your camera to cover more spaces and reduce blind areas. It supports 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi and an additional RJ-45 ethernet port, with a signal receiving range of up to 20 meters.

Pros

• IP65 waterproof (stand temperature range from 14 degrees Fahrenheit
• Automatically tries to solve unstable Wi-Fi network

Cons

• Does not support 5G network
• One reviewer reported it constantly became unpaired

Compatible with Alexa Echo Show, this camera can be used to show any scene within your home and it instantly pops up via the Echo show. The warranty policy is not immediately clear, so please ask ahead of time.

5. Ring Indoor Cam

Keep track of what’s going on in your home with numerous devices, including your smartphone, tablet or select Echo device. Connect one or more multiple indoor Cams to your Ring device in the Ring app, too.

Key Features

• Compact plug-in indoor camera
• HD security camera
• Two-way talk

In either a one-pack or two-pack, use this camera to record all your videos, review what was missed for up to 60 days, and share videos and photos with Live View, check out what’s going in your home any time you like. Place on a flat surface or mount the camera to a wall with the versatile mounting bracket.

Pros

• Easily installed in a standard outlet
• Easily setup indoor Cam

Cons

• Ring Protection Plan sold separately
• Recorded sound may be spotty, according to one reviewer

This camera is covered by a one-year limited warranty and service included.

6. Arlo Technologies Wireless VMS3230C

This Arlo camera has nightly vision, and can be used indoors and outdoors. This patented 100 percent wire-free design can be placed anywhere.

Key Features

• Cloud storage
• Base station (required)
• HD video (720p resolution)

Invest in a variety of camera kits (one camera, two cameras, three cameras, four cameras, five cameras). No matter which one you choose, the motion-activated cameras will record and alert when motion is detected within seven days of free rolling cloud storage.

The wireless range should be able to show you anything within a 300-foot line of sight. It can operate at a temperature as low as 14 degrees or as high as 122 degrees Fahrenheit, at a focus range (ST) and fixed focus of 2 feet to infinity.

Pros

• Allows email and/or app notifications
• Can contact emergency responders from the smartphone’s lock screen (with an optional one-month-free-trial service)

Cons

• Audio not supported
• Batteries are not rechargeable

Keep in mind that the standard Arlo camera and the Arlo Pro are two separate products. The Alexa device and voice control are also sold separately.

7. HeimVision HM245

This home security system with DVR can be operated indoors and outdoors with night vision.

Key Features

• Outdoor waterproof camera
• Motion-alert activation
• Smart devices supported (with 24/7 recording and playback)

Whether in colorful day vision or clear night vision, this Plug & Play camera has easy setup options. Just connect the cameras, display screen and router to the DVR with the provided cables, and then power up the cameras and DVR to receive 24/7 surveillance footage.

This video recorder system supports video preview, recording, sync-playback, backup, motion detection and email alarm. It records in 1080P HD, and captures sharp and crisp images with 2.0 megapixel bullet cameras.

At night, it can see as far as 65 feet in night vision. Intended to minimize false alarms, this HeimVision wireless surveillance system can be customized with its own detection plan and zone for each camera.

Pros

• Face detection
• Remote access

Cons

• HDD not included
• Must buy an extra 3.5-inch hard drive for recording (support Max 6TB hard drive)

This camera option can be used to conceal parts of the image from the live view to protect one’s privacy. Use remote access simultaneously on smart devices (IOS/Android) at any time.

8. Conico Outdoor

This outdoor security camera is a 1080P Wi-Fi surveillance camera that is suitable for nights. This camera, which can be used for three to six months after a full charge (2.4GHz), has advanced wireless antennas to receive stronger Wi-Fi signals.

Key Features

• Enhanced 4DB antenna
• Large capacity battery
• PIR motion sensor and accurate alerts

Powered by a wireless rechargeable battery, this 10400mAh camera has two-way audio. With a PIR motion detection and two-way audio, this surveillance camera has adopted PIR sensors with flexible motion sensitivity to avoid false alarms (commonly associated with insects and sometimes rodents).

You will receive a mobile notification when activity is detected. The built-in microphone allows people to communicate in front of the camera no matter the location, and can be seen from a viewing angle of 120 degrees and a visible range of 50 feet.

Pros

• Reduces false alarms and push alarm messages
• IP65 waterproof

Cons

• Warranty policy unclear
• The recording option for footage may have a delay and require the camera to be on

Weatherproof and with a durable battery camera, this indoor/outdoor option can handle extreme weather and even snowstorms. Skipping all the usual wiring helps; just use the battery-powered wireless security camera as is. It can be installed anywhere within a matter of minutes.

9. Joustory

Whether you’re looking for the best nanny cam for a baby or for your mischievous pet, this indoor camera can pan, tilt and zoom as needed to help you feel more safe when away from home.

Key Features

• Two-way audio intercom and remote control
• 1080P high-definition display
• Wireless Smart Wi-Fi Camera

This indoor security camera has two infrared night vision LED lights. It supports 10m infrared distance, and has a 355-degree horizontal and 90-degree vertical rotation range. With two-way audio, this also doubles as a fun pet camera monitor with intelligent tracking, movement and sound detection.

Whether it’s for barking or a baby crying, an alarm sound will be sent to your phone. The noise reduction technology will help to create smooth and clear calls that can be shared with multiple users.

Pros

• Clearer images even at night
• High-quality speaker microphone

Cons

• Warranty policy is unclear on site
• Camera works with associated apps only

This camera purchase also includes a one-month free trial cloud service to avoid losing footage from a memory card. Save videos, screenshots, watch playbacks, and safely view all data and video.

10. Google Nest Cam

This nest indoor camera provides 24/7 live video with night vision and two-way talking. With two-factor authentication, you can also make sure your footage is especially safe.

Key Features

• 1080p HD
• Night vision
• Mobile intelligent alerts

This Google security camera is made to check in from anywhere at any time. You can send clips to family or friends in 1920 x 1080 resolution, in the case that you want a safe space for security footage.

For business travelers and for people who live in multiple cities, the option to send this footage easily may come in handy for check-in visits, too. With eight high-power infrared LEDs for night vision, you can view clear video in the darkest conditions.

Pros

• Three-hour event snapshot
• Works with Google Assistant and Alexa

Cons

• Triple-check warranty policy before purchase to make sure it is two years, not 30 days
• False alerts notifications are only active if you subscribe to the Nest Aware monthly subscription service

If you are not satisfied with this product, you can return it in its original condition within 30 days for a full refund with the manufacturer’s warranty. However, Amazon has extended the return option to a two-year limited warranty.

11. YI Smart

Detect people in motion at up to 20 frames per second (fps), and send activity alerts with the help of the AI technology on this camera. You can even view the camera livestream with an Echo Show.

Key Features

• Indoor IP security surveillance system
• Night vision
• Phone/personal computer app with cloud service (safely stored on the cloud for seven days for free)

Use a micro SD card (4GB to 64GB) for local storage on this camera. This camera includes non-invasive night vision with a clear view of up to 9 meters with adjustable infrared (IR) light. IR Light On is for pitch dark, and IR Light Off is for low light.

There is also an optional 24/7 emergency response service, including YI’s motion alerts and live video feeds with the option to instantly involve Noon light’s Certified Emergency Dispatchers, who coordinate with police, fire and EMS agencies on customers’ behalf.

Pros

• Artificial intelligence-powered human detection alerts or motion-detected alerts (sensitivity from high to low)
• Works with Alexa

Cons

• Micro SD card not included
• Warranty policy is unclear on the site; ask buyer ahead of time

Eliminate false positives from movement that cannot be helped, such as flying insects, small pets or light changes. You’ll only be alerted to relevant and unfamiliar movement.

12. Victure Outdoor

This outdoor floodlight camera is motion-activated with a field of view up to 127 degrees.

Key Features

• 1080p HD resolution
• Two-way audio (built-in microphone and speaker)
• 2MP full HD and ultra-bright light

Avoid false alarms from pets, falling leaves, flying birds, and insects. With this AI-motion detection, this security camera will only keep track of human objects that should trigger the video recording and pushing alerts.

Equipped with 2000lm ultra-bright LED light, you can control light by the mobile app. The siren alarm will warn and deter intruders from coming any closer.

Pros

• 1P55 waterproof
• Color image for day and night

Cons

• Warranty policy is unclear; double-check with buyer first
• Motion detection requires users to unclick the areas they don’t want monitored instead of automatically recognizing these things and monitoring new objects

This camera should be easy to install with an after-seller service that promises to reply soon with resolutions.

What to look out for before buying a Security camera

Every home is different when it comes to surveillance needs. In rural communities where wildlife commonly runs by, there will probably be more activity in the yard. It is up to the user to decide whether to be notified of every deer, squirrel or even cow going by is worth it. If the goal is to keep track of animals in the garden or on a farm (or other locations), then this makes sense. But if the goal is to only keep track of unfamiliar human activity, it is a better idea to find a camera that either allows users to identify what they don’t want to see. Or, put the camera in such a place where regular movement (and constantly annoying alerts) won’t become a nuisance.

The same rules apply for dogs. If you let your dog run around outside in the backyard all day, chances are he won’t just sleep on the steps. Any kind of action that catches his attention will make the video camera start moving, whether it’s inside or outside. Unless your dog is in a crate, expect movement. So before purchasing any camera, pay special attention to what is already moving in your home. Then you can narrow down the specifications for what you need.

Camera Placement

One of the more ideal places to put your camera is in an area where one would expect to find suspicious activity (front door, gangway door or back door [without a loose pet]). Pay attention to the street lights here. While there are cameras that claim to view night footage in fps or at a specified horizontal or vertical degree angle, at night or during the day, bad lighting in your neighborhood can make or break this viewer footage. If you’re on a street that poor street lighting, make sure the LED lights more than make up for it. The same rules apply in a dark garage walkway area or backyard. Know where the lighting is best and where it could be better; this will help you decide what features sound nice and which ones should be mandatory for your security surveillance.

Required Technology

Now that you have a general idea of what kind of lighting you’ll need and how to avoid false alarms, the last thing you’ll want to make sure of is whether your current technology is compatible with the camera’s. If you will need an upgraded phone, app or personal computer, and already want one, this isn’t a big deal. But if the software for this camera requires a bigger expense for technology you already use, it may not be worth it.

Find out the compatibility of the add-ons first, and whether you want to purchase them, and then proceed from that point. There may be some cameras that have free trial periods for you to check out their available software. Pay attention to the trial period, as well as the window for returns or exchanges.

Utilize the trial period immediately to make sure it’s even worth it. If you find that the camera’s software is not ideal for your needs, do yourself a favor and return before you’re stuck with a surveillance camera that doesn’t meet all of your expectations. Find one that has all the features that you actually want instead of cool features that you’ll never use.

Bottom Line

From the 12 cameras above, hopefully you can find a camera that does everything you need to make you feel safe. With proper lighting, less likelihood of false alarms and features that are compatible with your needs, your surveillance camera should be what puts you at ease while on business or leisure trips, at work, or with guests in your home. Whether it’s the new dogsitter, nanny or housesitter (or all of the above), you should be able to feel comfortable with this person in your home. (Note: It is a good idea to let them know that they’re being watched. In some states, it is illegal to film someone without their knowledge. It could also risk some embarrassing footage on their end if they’re unaware that they’re being filmed while doing non-threatening things.) You should also feel comfortable with no one at home, and hopefully it stays that way.

Everyone has their own reasons for having surveillance cameras. Some homeowners are trying to figure out what animals are eating up their vegetables and plants. Others are trying to nail down the porch package pirate. And still others may be seeing an increase in questionable behavior in their neighborhoods. You have a right to protect your home the best way you know how. Here’s hoping these options are the extra eyes you need to give you some peace of mind.

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