Tuesday, March 31, 2020

Best Cheap Security Cameras under $50

Top Pick
Zosi 720p cameraZOSI 720P CCTV Camera
  • Cheapest of the cheap
  • Reliable inside and outdoors
  • Cheapest of the cheap
  • Reliable inside and outdoors
Smart Cam Pick
Wyze Cam Pan product imageWyze Cam Pan
  • Works with Alexa
  • Scans entire rooms
  • Works with Alexa
  • Scans entire rooms
Outdoor Pick
SV3C Outdoor Wi-Fi CameraSV3C Outdoor Wi-Fi Camera
  • Night vision up to 67 ft.
  • Two-way audio
  • Night vision up to 67 ft.
  • Two-way audio
Calendar Icon
Last Updated: A day ago
We added some info about Wyze’s generous response to the coronavirus pandemic in its home state of Washington. We also replaced the SV3C HD Wi-Fi Security Camera Outdoor with a newer version.

Home security cameras aren’t reserved for people who can drop a wad of cash on a fancy surveillance system. If you want to add a security camera, but have a budget to stick to, this is the resource you’ve been looking for.

We found five cheap security cameras that deliver high-quality reliability—and they’re all under $50. 

Compare Cheap Security Cameras

Price*
Night Vision
Two-Way Communication
MicroSD
Cloud Storage
Smart Home Capability
Top Pick Smart Cam Pick Outdoor Pick Cloud Storage Pick Night Vision Pick
ZOSI 720P Wyze Cam Pan SV3C 1080p Wi-Fi YI Dome Cam Wansview Wireless 1080pv
Zosi 720p camera Wyze Cam Pan product image SV3C Outdoor Wi-Fi Camera YI Dome Security Camera Wansview Wireless 1080p Security Camera
$12.59 $37.98 $45.99 $33.99 $39.99
Up to 65 ft. Up to 30 ft. Up to 67 ft. Up to 10 ft. Up to 20 ft.
X
No

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes
X
No

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes
X
No

Yes
X
No
None Alexa compatible None YI Home products None
View on Amazon View on Amazon View on Amazon View on Amazon View on Amazon

*Amazon.com list price as of 03/31/20 4:03 p.m. (MT). Read full disclaimer.

Our Approach

SafeWise tests, researches, and compares products based on the factors that matter most to the people who want to use them. We get our hands on products, fall into rabbit holes of research, look up customer reviews, contact customer service, and more.

Learn more about our rankings and reviews process on our methodology page.

Best Cheap Security Camera Reviews

ZOSI 720P CCTV Camera: Top Pick

Top Pick
Zosi 720p CCTV Security Camera

Zosi 720p

This is a four-in-one security camera from ZOSI. You can use it inside and outdoors, and it’s compatible with four different video outputs.

This ZOSI security camera looks like what you expect from a security camera, which should scare away burglars who are on the prowl. And you can find plenty of videos online from customers who caught thieves in the act thanks to this versatile, cheap camera.

Pros

  • Weather-resistant design
  • 65 ft. night vision
  • Vandal-proof construction
  • Compatibility with other ZOSI cameras

Cons

  • No motion tracking
  • No mobile pan or tilt
  • No two-way audio

Wyze Cam Pan: Smart Cam Pick

Smart Cam Pick
Wyze Cam Pan product image

Wyze Cam Pan

It’s hard to believe that you can get a smart Wi-Fi camera for less than $40. But the Wyze Cam Pan delivers—and it’s become a staff favorite.

You’ll love the clear night vision images, built-in speaker for two-way audio, and smart motion tracking that follows movement from start to finish. And if you’ve got a little tyke that likes to sing themselves to sleep, you can check in remotely for a sweet serenade every night. 

Pros

  • Free rolling cloud storage
  • Voice control with Amazon Alexa
  • 360° pan and scan
  • Motion and sound detection
  • Longer power cord

Cons

  • No auto-reboot function
  • Some network security concerns
  • Hit-and-miss motion alerts

More Cheap Security from Wyze

If you want to upgrade your home security on the cheap, Wyze has a full suite of products to protect your home. Wyze Sense contact sensors ($19.99) let you guard doors, windows, cabinets, and anything else that opens. You can also add extra security with a smart light bulb from Wyze ($7.99), and the Wyze Plug ($14.99).

Plus, you can now get the Wyze Lock, which is the cheapest smart lock on the market at just $89.99.

Wyze Cam Donations

To help support small businesses in its home state of Washington during the coronavirus pandemic, Wyze is giving away free security cameras. We think Wyze’s choice to support its local community is a noteworthy example of companies stepping up during this trying time. If you live in Washington state and run a small business, head over to Wyze's website to fill out an application.

SV3C Outdoor Wi-Fi Camera: Outdoor Pick

Outdoor Pick
SV3C Outdoor Wi-Fi Camera

SV3C Outdoor Wi-Fi Camera

This outdoor IP camera lets you protect your home and property without breaking the bank.

The SV3C provides smart motion detection, high-resolution images, and the broadest night vision range of any camera on our list (up to 67 feet). And at around $46 a piece, you can afford to place a few around your property.

Pros

  • Long night vision range
  • Smart motion detection
  • Compatibility with third-party security software
  • Two-way audio

Cons

  • No smart home compatibility
  • Difficult adjustment of recording settings

YI Dome Camera: Cloud Storage Pick

Cloud Storage Pick
yi dome camera

YI Dome Cam

The YI Dome Camera makes it easy to stay on top of everything in your home when you have to be away. And you can wave goodbye to blind spots because the YI Dome Camera features a bidirectional rotation range that captures panoramic scenes.

Best of all, you can store all those sweeping images for free on the YI Cloud.

Pros

  • Unlimited rolling YI Cloud storage
  • Motion tracking
  • Video bookmarks
  • Compatibility with other YI devices
  • Noise reduction

Cons

  • App privacy concerns
  • Some firmware issues
  • No motion alert zone settings

Wansview Wireless 1080P Security Camera: Night Vision Pick

Night Vision Pick
Wansview Wireless 1080p Security Camera

Wansview Wireless 1080P Security Camera

This affordable Wansview security camera delivers a lot for under $50. You get 1080p HD resolution, a 350° pan range, and 4x digital zoom.

Plus, with two-way communication, this is a great solution if you want to check in on little humans or fur babies. And customers love how crisp the images are—even at night. But that awesome night vision only extends up to 20 feet.

Pros

  • iOS and Android mobile app
  • Smart pan and tilt function
  • Quick setup
  • Broad field of view
  • Excellent night vision clarity

Cons

  • Limited night vision range
  • No smart home capability
  • Glitchy Android app

How to Buy a Cheap Security Camera

It’s fine and good to want an affordable home security camera solution, but you don’t want to sacrifice quality for a few extra bucks in your wallet. Some of the best security cameras are still affordable. Here are our tips for buying smart on the cheap.

Know what you want from your security camera

It helps to start shopping with a goal in mind. Are you using your camera inside or outside? Do you need a camera with special talents like motion sensors or pet-friendly features?

When you’re buying cheap it helps to know in advance the features that you’re looking for. That helps you weed out cameras that don’t deliver right away.

Here are some questions to help you figure out what you want (and need) in a cheap security camera.

  • Do you want to install more than one security camera?
  • Do you want a camera to deter burglars?
  • Do you want a security camera so you can check in on people and pets when you’re not at home?
  • Is a mobile app important to you?
  • Do you want motion-activated alerts sent to your phone or email?
  • Do you want to be able to listen in and talk through the camera?
  • Are you interested in a camera that you can move around, or do you want to install it in a permanent location?
  • Are you more interested in wireless cameras, or are you okay with a power cord?
  • Is storing and saving video footage important to you? If so, do you want to use cloud storage or do you prefer an SD card?
  • Do you want to watch a live video feed?
  • Are smart home features and compatibility important to you?

Identify security camera brands that you trust

Finding high quality at low prices is a lot easier when you know which brands deliver at a lower price point.

Start with brands that you may already be familiar with, or ask trusted friends and family for recommendations. Then research expert reviews and customer ratings to see what people are saying about the camera after they’ve used it for a while.

Look out for security cameras that come with hidden costs

The purchase price posted for one camera may not be the whole story. Some security cameras are part of a bigger system and require extra equipment to function. Extras can be a base station, playback DVR, or cloud storage subscription.

Take time to read the fine print and root out any extra costs before deciding which cheap security camera is right for you.

Disclaimer

*Amazon.com list price as of 03/31/20 4:03 p.m. (MT). Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. Safewise.com utilizes paid Amazon links.

Certain content that appears on this site comes from Amazon. This content is provided “as is” and is subject to change or removal at any time.

The post Best Cheap Security Cameras under $50 appeared first on SafeWise.

Best Home Security Cameras for 2020

Best Wireless Cam
Arlo Pro 3Arlo Pro 3
  • 100% wire-free operation
  • Free cloud storage
  • Indoor/outdoor durability
  • 100% wire-free operation
  • Free cloud storage
  • Indoor/outdoor durability
Best Motion Detection
Wyze Cam PanWyze Cam Pan
  • Cheap price
  • Free cloud storage
  • Motion tracking
  • Cheap price
  • Free cloud storage
  • Motion tracking
Best Outdoor Cam
Ring Spotlight CamRing Spotlight Cam
  • Three power options
  • Voice control with Alexa
  • Built-in motion light
  • Three power options
  • Voice control with Alexa
  • Built-in motion light
Calendar Icon
Last Updated: A day ago
We updated our review with the latest products as well as information about how Wyze and Vivint are responding to the coronavirus pandemic.

With so much to choose from, it’s hard to know which security camera is right for you. That’s why we break down everything from video resolution to smart home compatibility to help you find the security camera that meets the needs of your home and family.


best home security cameras line-up


Compare the Best Home Security Cameras

Price*
Video Resolution
Smart Home Compatibility
Learn More
Wireless Pick
Motion Pick
Outdoor Pick
Monitored Pick
Best Image
Easy Setup
Most Versatile
Best Baby Monitor
Best Night Vision
Best Pan-and-Tilt
Arlo Pro 3 Wyze Cam Pan Ring Spotlight Cam Vivint’s Ping Indoor Camera™ Google Nest Cam IQ Indoor Vimtag P1 HD Ultra IP Camera Canary Flex YI 1080p Indoor Security Camera SereneLife Indoor IP Camera Wansview 1080p WiFi Security Camera
Arlo Pro 3 white wyze cam Ring Spotlight Cam vivint ping camera Nest Cam IQ Indoor Vimtag P1 HD Ultra IP Camera black canary flex camera with cable YI 1080p Indoor Security Camera SereneLife Indoor IP Camera Wansview 1080p WiFi Security Camera
$498.98 $37.98 $199.00 $199.99 $299.99 $69.95 $199.00 $21.47 $65.99 $37.39
1440p (2K) 1080p 1080p 1080p 1080p 720p 1080p 1080p 1080p 1080p
Digital only None None None None Both None Pan only Both Both
160° 120° 140° 155° 130° 112° 116° 112° 90° 65°
Amazon Alexa
Google Assistant
IFTTT
Samsung SmartThings
Amazon Alexa Amazon Alexa Vivint Sky Amazon Alexa
Google Assistant
Nest
None Amazon Alexa
Google Assistant
None None None
View on Amazon View on Amazon View on Amazon Visit Vivint View on Kohl's View on Amazon View on Amazon View on Amazon View on Amazon View on Amazon

*Amazon.com list price as of 03/31/2020 5:40 p.m. (MT). Read full disclaimer.
Vivint Ping camera not sold separately; requires a Vivint home security system.
Google, Google Nest, Google Assistant, Google Home, and other related marks are trademarks of Google LLC.

Best Security Camera Reviews

1. Arlo Pro 3: Best Wireless Camera

arlo-device-installed-on-tree

View on Amazon

The Arlo Pro 3 is the latest version of a SafeWise favorite. It builds on the previous two versions by introducing 2K video quality and a bright spotlight for nighttime color video. It also tops our list of the best wireless security cameras.

The Arlo Pro 3 is a solid all-around camera that works inside or out, and it’s super easy to install. The biggest drawback is the investment. You need to purchase a base station in addition to two cameras, which makes the up-front cost more hefty than other cameras.

Read our full Arlo Pro review to get all the details.

Pros

  • 100% wire-free operation
  • 7 days of free rolling cloud storage
  • Quick, easy setup
  • Sensitive motion detector

Cons

  • Required base station
  • Limited configurations and settings

2. Wyze Cam Pan: Best Motion-Activated Camera

wyze-cam-pan-dog-living-room

View on Amazon

The Wyze Cam Pan has quickly become a staff favorite. Whether you want to use it as a baby monitor (like one of our testers did) or as a means to keep Fido off the sofa (like me), this camera’s advanced motion tracking won’t disappoint.

Instant alerts plus motion tracking let you see exactly what’s happening while it’s happening. And two-way talk is a great way to settle down upset kiddos or excited pets—not to mention scaring away would-be burglars.

Learn more in our complete Wyze Cam Pan review.

Pros

  • Affordable price
  • 360° coverage
  • Motion tracking
  • Free cloud storage

Cons

  • No email alerts
  • Glitchy sound quality

Wyze Cam Donations

Wyze is giving away free security cameras to small businesses in Washington state during the coronavirus pandemic. Wyze is a Seattle-based company, so it’s nice to see it taking steps to help its local community in these uncertain times. If you’re a small business owner in Washington, head over to Wyze’s website to fill out an application to see if you can get a free camera.

3. Ring Spotlight Cam: Best Outdoor Camera

ring-spotlight-cam-wall-trees

View on Amazon

You might recognize the Ring brand for its doorbell cameras. But the company has branched out and added its smart surveillance technology to this compact outdoor security camera.

Because it can be difficult to find power sources for outside cameras, we like that the Ring Spotlight Cam has three power options: battery, hardwired, or solar.

It also has a built-in, motion-activated spotlight that will stop trespassers in their tracks. Plus added features like two-way audio, a 110-decibel siren, and integration with Amazon Alexa make this camera a leader in outdoor surveillance. That’s why the Ring Spotlight Cam was ranked our number one choice for outdoor security cameras.

Read our full Ring Spotlight Cam review.

Pros

  • Battery, wired, or solar power options
  • Built-in motion light
  • Voice control with Alexa
  • Loud siren

Cons

  • High cost
  • Limited battery life

A Word About Wireless Security

Several Ring Alarm and camera users have reported breaches in their accounts that allowed a stranger to use the two-way communication to intimidate them. This is a risk every user takes when they use any internet-connected wireless system.

The good news is you can minimize the risk with proper internet security. Here are a few easy tips for securing your system from online threats:

  • Use strong, unique passwords for all your accounts
  • Opt for extra security measures like two-factor authentication
  • Add shared users instead of sharing login credentials
  • Change your home Wi-Fi password frequently

We still confidently recommend Ring and other similar wireless internet-connected systems. And while these threats are real, they can be avoided with a few extra precautions.

4. Vivint Ping Indoor Camera: Best Monitored Camera

vivint-ping-indoor-camera

View Packages from Vivint

Vivint has a reputation for innovative home security solutions, and the Ping Indoor Camera doesn’t disappoint.

This home security camera stands out with customized notifications, video analytics, and seamless integration with the Vivint Sky smart home platform. And if you’ve got kids or parents at home, you’ll love the one-touch callout that lets family members call your cellphone right from the camera with the touch a button.

But you can’t buy this camera on its own—you need to add to a full Vivint home security system.

See all the smart home security solutions from Vivint in our full review.

Pros

  • Two-way communication
  • Personalized alerts
  • One-touch calling
  • 45 days of free recorded footage

Cons

  • Only available with home security system purchase

Vivint’s Response to COVID-19

Vivint is open for business during the coronavirus pandemic and taking steps to protect the health of customers and employees alike. The company conducts daily health assessments on all employees and installers. It’s also rescheduling appointments as necessary if customers become sick. You can see what else Vivint’s doing about COVID-19 at Vivint.com.

5. Google Nest Cam IQ Indoor: Best Image and Video Quality

Nest-Cam-IQ-Lifestyle

View on Kohl’s

While the Nest Cam is one of the more expensive stand-alone security cameras for home use, it makes our list for crisp image resolution and its forward-thinking smart home design.

The Nest Cam IQ comes with a built-in Google Assistant and integrates seamlessly with the rest of the Nest home automation suite. It stands out with an 8x digital zoom feature and large 130° field of view.

But there is no pan-and-tilt capability, and you need to get a Nest Aware subscription ($5 to $30/month) to access advanced features like facial recognition.

Learn more in our Nest Cam IQ product review.

Pros

  • High resolution
  • Supersight zooming and tracking
  • Person alerts
  • Built-in Google Assistant
  • Up to 50 ft. night vision range

Cons

  • Expensive price point
  • No pan-and-tild-capability
  • Required subscription to use all features

6. Vimtag P1 HD Ultra IP CameraBest for Easy Setup

vimtag-camera-context-lifestyle-home

View on Amazon

This little security camera delivers a lot at a reasonable price point. You get pan-and-tilt functionality, two-way voice, 4x digital zoom, and clear night vision—all for under $80.

Best of all, you don’t have to worry about complicated setup. The Vimtag P1 is plug-and-play with built-in Wi-Fi to make setup a breeze.

Pros

  • 4x digital zoom
  • Pan-and-tild functionality
  • Built-in Wi-Fi
  • Easy setup

Cons

  • No smart home compatibility
  • Inconsistent app notifications

7. Canary Flex: Most Versatile

canary-flex-in-window

View on Amazon

This home security camera from Canary packs a big punch in a little package. It works either connected to power or with its built-in battery—and it’s the only Canary camera that you can use inside and outdoors. 

It also features other home security perks that Canary is known for like the built-in Noonlight safety panic button and person detection alerts.

Pros

  • Weatherproof for outdoor use
  • Equipped with emergency contact button
  • Designed for two-way communication

Cons

  • No built-in siren
  • No climate sensors

8. YI 1080p Indoor Security Camera: Best Baby Monitoring Camera

y1-indoor-security-camera-app

View on Amazon

If you want a security camera that can double as a nanny cam, then you’ll love the YI 1080p Indoor Security Camera.

This camera features baby crying detection—that means you’ll get different alerts depending on whether the camera detects motion or picks up the sound of your little one giving their lungs a workout.

And you get free app-sharing with up to five family members, plus seven days of free storage in the YI cloud.

Pros

  • Cheap price tag
  • Baby crying detection
  • 7 days of free cloud storage
  • App-sharing with up to 5 people

Cons

  • Some privacy concerns
  • Hit-and-miss customer service

9. SereneLife Indoor IP Camera: Best Night Vision Camera

serenelife-indoor-ip-camera-day-night-view

View on Amazon

The SereneLife Indoor IP Camera offers superb image quality that isn’t compromised once the lights go out.

The night vision on this camera is praised time and again in customer reviews, and it delivers a crisp picture up to 32 feet. And even though the app and software are easy to work with, it’s a bit of a letdown that you can’t integrate this camera with any smart home hubs or gadgets.

Pros

  • Excellent night vision
  • Intuitive ap
  • Good motion sensitivity
  • Sharp image quality

Cons

  • Limited Wi-Fi range
  • No smart home integration

10. Wansview 1080p WiFi Security Camera: Best Pan-and-Tilt Camera

wansview-1080p-wifi-security-camera-table-plant

View on Amazon

It’s easy to scan an entire room with the Wansview’s advanced pan-and-tilt capabilities—and you can control it completely from your phone.

If you check in on the Wansview mobile app, you can scan the room by simply swiping your finger in the direction of whatever it is you want to check out.

So if you have a sneaking suspicion that your kitty is clawing the ottoman while you’re at work, you can catch her in the act with just a flick of your finger.

Pros

  • Easy setup
  • Talk and listen features
  • Good picture clarity
  • Responsive customer service

Cons

  • Loud beeping if Wi-Fi disconnects
  • Lackluster app

Types of Security Cameras

There are a lot of security cameras to choose from. It’s important to understand the differences so you can find the security camera that fits your needs.

Indoor Security Cameras

Indoor cameras can be part of a complete home security system, or used on their own to add extra protection to your home and your loved ones.

And today’s indoor security cameras deliver a lot more than recorded video footage. Most come with the option to view live action video, and cameras with two-way communication let you check in with kids after school, tell Rover to get off your favorite chair, or scare the daylights out of someone who doesn’t belong in your home (plus you’ll have their picture, to boot!).

But—big surprise—indoor cameras are designed to be used inside. You probably won’t be able to make an indoor camera do double-duty by pointing it out a window to see what’s happening on the street or in your yard.

Make sure that you select an indoor camera based on the need to keep an eye on what’s happening inside your home, not with fingers crossed that it can do the job of an outside camera.

Outdoor Security Cameras

Outdoor cameras are one of the best ways to deter (and catch) burglars, vandals, and other miscreants. Like indoor security cameras, they can be integrated as part of a home security system or used individually to up the security level around your home.

Whether you’re interested in a camera to deter thieves or a way to make sure packages don’t walk off the porch, there are a number of cameras designed to meet your outdoor security needs.

One of the most important things to look for is a high weatherproof rating. You need a durable camera that can stand up to the elements and drastic changes in temperature. If you live in a climate with extreme hot or cold weather, make sure the camera you choose is rated to withstand those types of temps.

Another big feature is night vision. You might also consider a camera with a built-in motion-activated light—all the better to scare you with, my dear! But before you commit to a camera, find out which outdoor security cameras made our top 10 this year.

Wireless Security Cameras

There’s a lot of talk about wireless cameras, but that term can be confusing. Some manufacturers call a camera “wireless” because it uses a Wi-Fi  connection, and others refer to cameras that don’t need to be plugged into an outlet.

When we picked the best wireless security cameras, we focused primarily on cameras that are 100% wire-free, meaning they use Wi-Fi and a wireless power source. But we do acknowledge the broader usage of the term, and included a little of both in our annual roundup.

Things to consider when it comes to choosing a wireless camera include your home Wi-Fi network speed, the number of devices already using your home Wi-Fi, and whether or not you’d prefer the freedom of a cord-free camera.

Completely wire-free cameras also eliminate the risk of someone cutting the cord to stop the feed.

Monitored Security Cameras

Security cameras that are part of a monitored security system usually have the same features and options as stand-alone cameras.

But one advantage of ordering your camera as part of a whole-home security system is that you don’t need to worry as much about the details of each specific camera—you can tap into the expertise of the home security company for help picking the right cameras to protect your home.

Each security company’s cameras will have the functionality to work best with its system, eliminating some of the guesswork. Plus, monitored security cameras come with the added reassurance of extra eyes on your home and loved ones. That means someone will be looking out for trouble 24/7, so you can close out your camera’s app and get a good night’s sleep.

Security Camera Features

In addition to picking the best type of security camera, you also need one with the right features to protect your home and family the way you want to.

Do you want a camera to deter burglars, or are you more interested in keeping an eye on children or pets? These are some of the most important features to keep in mind when comparing home security cameras.

Motion Detection

Cameras with motion detection can send you notifications when the camera observes motion within its field of view. These notifications can alert you to suspicious activity so you can monitor the situation.

If you’re concerned about break-ins or keeping deliveries safe, a security camera with motion alerts might be the best fit.

Night Vision

The distance from which your camera can record images in low- to no-light situations can have a great impact on its effectiveness if you want to capture activity after the sun sets.

We’ve all dealt with photos that are too dark to make out any details. It’s frustrating when it’s a wedding photo, but it’s nerve-racking when you’re trying to capture a face or license plate after a break-in.

Pay attention to the existing lighting in the areas where you want to install security cameras. Look for the night vision range of each camera and consider how much area you want to cover. And beware of using an indoor camera to look outside; they can’t usually capture images through a window or after dark.

Field of View

Field of view refers to how wide an angle a camera can record. This is important because it will affect how many cameras you’ll need and where you should place them.

Sound

The sound feature can refer to your camera receiving sound via a microphone, emitting sound via a speaker, or both. If you want to give directions to a delivery person or check in on the kids after school, two-way talk is the way to go.

This feature turns your home security camera into an intercom. Cameras with two-way communication have a mic that picks up sound near the camera, plus a speaker that lets you interact with people or pets on the other end.

Wi-Fi Capability

A camera with Wi-Fi can communicate with your home network wirelessly, which can be handy for installation. It also makes your camera more tamper-proof because it doesn’t have wires that can be cut.

But home surveillance cameras that stream video and send alerts via email and text can use up a lot of data on your home network.

How much bandwidth your camera uses depends on many factors. Some of the considerations include image resolution and whether your camera records everything or only clips triggered by motion or sound.

If you have caps on your internet data usage, make sure you understand how your security camera(s) could impact your monthly bill. You should also verify that your router can handle the extra devices and output.

Movement

A camera that can pan and/or tilt may be able to record a larger area than a static camera and could reduce the total number of cameras needed to observe a particular area.

Smart motion detection features let you follow the action, whether it’s a pet racing around the living room or a youngster toddling toward trouble. If you set up motion alerts, you can check in right away to make sure everything’s okay—or respond if it’s not.

Cost

Obviously, if a camera costs so much that you can no longer afford the valuables you’re trying to protect, then it doesn’t serve a purpose.

Fortunately, you can find quality security cameras for under $50, or splurge for more expensive setups with advanced features and support.

Monitored security cameras are more expensive because they come with a crew of pros that watch your footage 24/7. But if you don’t need that level of protection, you can find stripped-down self-monitored cameras ranging from $20 to $50.

Just be sure to weigh the investment against the level of security you’re looking for.

Image Quality

Image and video resolution can impact the quality of your home security footage. Resolution defines how clear the image from your camera will be.

A clearly visible image can help you identify faces or items in the video your camera records. Make sure the camera you choose produces high-resolution images that can help identify culprits if your home is ever targeted.

Smart Home Integration

Today there’s a lot more to a home security camera than video surveillance. Many of the best security camera systems also help turn your house into a smart home. Security cameras can often integrate with a smart home hub like Amazon Echo or Google Home.

This can give you a huge home security advantage—the ability to remotely control lights, door locks, and your security cameras. You can also program your system to boost security measures when you’re out of town or during the holidays when lots of packages are delivered.

If home automation is something that matters to you, keep this in mind when selecting your security camera.

You don’t fool around when it comes to keeping your home and family safe, and neither do we. A home security camera is just one part of protecting what matters. If you’re ready for a full-on defense against burglars, vandals, and porch pirates, check out our comprehensive collection of safety insights, tips, and expert advice.

Disclaimer

*Amazon.com list price as of 03/31/2020 5:40 p.m. (MT). Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. Safewise.com utilizes paid Amazon links.

Certain content that appears on this site comes from Amazon. This content is provided “as is” and is subject to change or removal at any time.

Vivint Ping camera not sold separately; requires a Vivint home security system.

Google, Google Nest, Google Assistant, Google Home, and other related marks are trademarks of Google LLC.

The post Best Home Security Cameras for 2020 appeared first on SafeWise.