The 10 Best Home Security Cameras
The 10 best home security cameras
With one of the best home security cameras installed, you can rest easy knowing that your property and family are secure. Whether you live in a rented apartment or a spacious house, there are indoor and outdoor cameras to keep it covered.
We test scores of home security cameras here at TechRadar, from big brands like Ring and Arlo, through to smaller companies that are just starting out and have some innovative ideas. We install each camera in our own homes and put it through its paces in real-world conditions, capturing footage in different lighting conditions, using the mobile app to assess the quality of footage, and checking how well it connects to the rest of our smart home devices. We'll also let you know about any potential drawbacks, such as whether the camera requires a subscription to unlock certain features or to store footage in the cloud.
There are so many good security cameras out there that it can be hard to figure out which ones are better. While expensive cameras have state-of-the-art capabilities, some can provide high-quality video for a fraction of the cost. Ultimately, the best camera for you will be defined by what you’re looking for and how much you’re willing to spend.
If you know anything about us, you know we’re always testing home security cameras to see how they compare to one another. This list lists the best home security cameras for different purposes and reasons. For example, if you’re looking for cameras from some of the best home security systems, we recommend the cameras from ADT. If you want the best affordable cameras, we recommend taking a look at the devices from Wyze. Let’s get into our findings and what we think are the best home security cameras for 2025.
1. Nest Cam (Indoor, Wired) Type:
The Nest Cam (Indoor, Wired) is a sleek and modern security camera designed for indoor use, ideal for those invested in the Google smart home ecosystem. It offers 1080p HD video quality, HDR, and night vision, ensuring clear footage day or night. With built-in intelligent alerts, the camera can differentiate between people, animals, and general motion, reducing false notifications. A major advantage is that it provides three hours of free event video history, with the option to subscribe to Nest Aware for extended storage and advanced features. Its compact design and simple installation make it a great fit for living rooms, entryways, or nurseries. Seamless integration with Google Assistant allows voice control and live streaming on smart displays, making it a user-friendly option for smart home enthusiasts.
Type: Indoor, Wired
Resolution: 1080p HD
Smart Features: Person detection, Google Home integration
Subscription: Optional (3 hours of free history)
Pros: Crisp video quality, no hub required, works well with Google Assistant
Cons: No Apple HomeKit support
Ideal For: Users already in the Google ecosystem
2. Nest Cam (Battery)
The Nest Cam (Battery) is a versatile indoor/outdoor security camera designed for flexible installation and reliable performance. Its wire-free design allows placement almost anywhere, making it suitable for both renters and homeowners.
The camera's built-in intelligence distinguishes between people, animals, vehicles, and packages, reducing unnecessary alerts. It offers 3 hours of free event video history, with options to expand storage through a Nest Aware subscription. Additionally, it can store up to an hour of footage locally during Wi-Fi outages.
Type: Indoor/Outdoor, Battery-powered
Resolution: 1080p HD
Smart Features: Motion alerts, object detection
Subscription: Optional for extended history
Pros: Flexible placement, weatherproof, great design
Cons: Charging is required periodically
Ideal For: Renters or those wanting wireless flexibility
3. Wyze Cam v4
The Wyze Cam v4 is a budget-friendly yet feature-rich wired security camera designed for both indoor and outdoor use. It boasts a 2.5K QHD resolution (2560×1440), delivering clear and detailed video footage. Equipped with a starlight sensor, the camera offers Enhanced Color Night Vision, allowing it to capture vibrant colors even in low-light conditions. The motion-activated spotlight further enhances night visibility by illuminating the area when motion is detected.
For continuous monitoring, the Wyze Cam v4 supports 24/7 local recording via a microSD card (sold separately). It also features two-way audio, enabling real-time communication through the camera. With IP65 weather resistance, the camera is suitable for various environmental conditions. Additionally, it supports Wi-Fi 6, ensuring improved connectivity and performance.
Type: Indoor/Outdoor
Resolution: 1440p (2.5K)
Smart Features: Person/vehicle/pet detection, color night vision
Subscription: Optional (free, limited features)
Pros: Very affordable, great image quality
Cons: Some features are gated behind Wyze Cam Plus
Ideal For: Budget-conscious users who want solid performance
4. EufyCam
EufyCam is a line of advanced home security cameras developed by Eufy Security, a subsidiary of Anker Innovations. Renowned for their high-quality video performance, intelligent features, and commitment to privacy, EufyCam systems cater to homeowners seeking reliable and user-friendly surveillance solutions.
Type: Outdoor, Battery-powered
Resolution: 4K
Smart Features: AI detection, solar charging, local storage
Subscription: No required subscription
Pros: High-res video, no fees, encrypted local storage
Cons: Higher initial cost
Ideal For: Users wanting premium features without recurring costs
5. Arlo Ultra 2
The Arlo Ultra 2 is a high-end 4K HDR security camera that delivers exceptional video quality with an 8MP sensor and a 180° field of view, providing expansive and detailed footage. It features color night vision with a built-in 6500K spotlight, ensuring clear images even in low-light conditions. The camera supports two-way audio with noise cancellation for clear communication, while its dual-band Wi-Fi offers flexibility in placement. The Ultra 2 integrates seamlessly with the Arlo SmartHub for improved connectivity and system performance. Powered by a rechargeable battery with an optional AC power source, it offers reliable performance. Subscription to Arlo Secure unlocks cloud storage, advanced detection features, and emergency response. With its weather-resistant design, the Arlo Ultra 2 is a premium solution for both indoor and outdoor surveillance.
Type: Indoor/Outdoor, Wireless
Resolution: 4K
Smart Features: Object detection, wide-angle lens, HDR
Subscription: Yes (Arlo Secure)
Pros: Stunning video clarity, built-in spotlight/siren
Cons: Expensive, subscription needed for cloud storage
Ideal For: Tech-savvy users prioritizing video quality
6. Blink Outdoor 4
The Blink Outdoor 4 is a budget-friendly, battery-powered security camera designed for homeowners seeking reliable outdoor surveillance without a hefty price tag. Building upon its predecessors, this fourth-generation model introduces several enhancements aimed at improving performance and user experience.
As of February 2025, the Blink Outdoor 4 is available at a starting price of $99.99 for a single-camera system. Multi-camera bundles and additional accessories, such as the Battery Extension Pack, are also available for purchase. Occasional discounts and promotions may further reduce the cost, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers. New York Post, The Irish Sun. In summary, the Blink Outdoor 4 offers a compelling combination of affordability, enhanced features, and ease of use, making it a solid choice for homeowners looking to bolster their outdoor security without significant investment.
Type: Outdoor, Battery-powered
Resolution: 1080p
Smart Features: Motion alerts, works with Alexa
Subscription: Optional (local storage available with module)
Pros: 2-year battery life, affordable
Cons: Basic features compared to competitors
Ideal For: Amazon Alexa users and basic surveillance needs
7. Ring Outdoor Cam Plus
The Ring Outdoor Cam Plus offers 2K HD video with color night vision and a 140° field of view, ensuring detailed coverage day and night. It features motion-activated LED spotlights and customizable motion zones to reduce false alerts. With two-way audio, you can communicate with visitors, and the remote siren can be triggered to deter intruders. It offers flexible power options, including battery packs, plug-in, hardwired, or solar. Seamlessly integrated with Amazon Alexa, it provides real-time alerts and remote viewing via the Ring app, making it an ideal solution for outdoor security.
Type: Outdoor, Plug-in
Resolution: 2K
Smart Features: Dual-band Wi-Fi, better low-light clarity
Subscription: Yes (Ring Protect Plan)
Pros: Clearer night vision, solid app
Cons: Needs a subscription for full functionality
Ideal For: Homeowners in the Ring/Amazon ecosystem
8. SimpliSafe Outdoor Camera 2
The SimpliSafe Outdoor Camera Series 2 is a robust security solution designed for comprehensive outdoor monitoring. It captures 1080p HD video with a 140° field of view, ensuring wide-area coverage. Equipped with AI-powered motion detection, the camera distinguishes between people, animals, and vehicles, reducing false alerts. Its night vision capabilities, enhanced by a built-in spotlight, provide clear footage up to 30 feet in low-light conditions. The camera features two-way audio and a 90 dB siren to deter intruders. With an IP65 weather-resistant rating, it operates reliably in various weather conditions. The rechargeable battery offers up to three months of usage, and continuous power options are available for extended operation. Integration with the SimpliSafe Gen 3 system and the Active Guard monitoring service allows live agents to intervene during security events, enhancing real-time protection.
Type: Outdoor, Wireless
Resolution: 1080p
Smart Features: Live Guard monitoring, AI detection
Subscription: Yes (SimpliSafe Monitoring Plan)
Pros: Real-time professional monitoring, solid AI
Cons: Tied to the. SimpliSafe system
Ideal For: Users with or planning to install SimpliSafe systems
9. Lorex 2K Dual Lens Camera
The Lorex 2K Dual Lens Indoor Pan-Tilt Wi-Fi Camera offers comprehensive indoor surveillance with a unique dual-lens setup—a fixed lens for wide-area monitoring and a pan-tilt lens for active tracking. It records in crisp 2K resolution, supports 360° coverage, and features night vision up to 32 feet. Smart motion detection identifies people and animals, reducing false alerts. With two-way audio, local storage via microSD (up to 256GB), and no required subscription, it's a privacy-focused, high-performance option. Integration with the Lorex app and a physical privacy mode make it ideal for users seeking smart control and secure indoor monitoring.
Type: Outdoor
Resolution: 2K (Dual-lens for panoramic view)
Smart Features: Color night vision, active deterrence
Subscription: No Pros: No recurring costs, robust local storage
Cons: Limited smart home integrations
Ideal For: Privacy-focused users who want high-quality without cloud
10. TP-Link Tapo C12
The TP-Link Tapo C212 is a compact and affordable indoor security camera offering 2K resolution, pan/tilt coverage, and night vision up to 30 feet. It features AI motion and person detection, two-way audio, and supports both local microSD (up to 512GB) and cloud storage. With smart integration via Google Assistant and Alexa, plus a built-in alarm and privacy zones, it’s a solid choice for simple, effective home monitoring.
Type: Indoor
Resolution: 1080p
Smart Features: AI motion detection, two-way talk
Subscription: Optional (basic features free)
Pros: Very affordable, reliable performance
Cons: Indoor-only, no battery option
Ideal For: Simple indoor use, like monitoring pets or entryways
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