Best security camera

Need an extra pair of eyes around your property? Try these best security cameras.

Best security camera
(Image credit: @Scott Webb via Unsplash)

Installing a security camera is the most effective way to keep tabs on your home or property, especially when you are away. You can watch and even speak to your kids or pets thanks to two way audio, deter intruders by setting off an alarm, or get a notification once a package arrives. From the diverse options available on the market, I have whittled down my selection to the best functional and dependable options.

Best overall

Blink Mini compact indoor plug-in security cameras

(Image credit: Amazon)

Blink Mini compact indoor plug-in security cameras

Tiny but mighty

These mini cameras enable you to see and talk to anyone in your home via your smartphone. 

Pros:

  • Two-way audio system
  • Works with Alexa
  • Three-camera set
  • Motion detection

Cons:

  • No memory card capability
  • Wired

The Blink Mini offers everything you'd want in a plug-in monitoring device, and it's compact enough to be installed covertly in places other cameras can't go, such as bookcases, drawers, and wall outlets. Setup only requires plugging it into an outlet, then connecting it to Wi-Fi and the Blink app. This camera offers video streams in 1080p and reliable night vision, so you never miss a thing. I love the motion detection alerts and the fact that you can choose motion detection zones so you can focus on important areas. The best part is that this purchase comes with three.

Value pick

YI 4-piece security home camera

(Image credit: Amazon)

YI 4-piece security home camera set

Crying baby and motion detection

YI's set new standards for affordable home security with this four-camera set.

Pros:

  • 115-degree view angle
  • Baby crying detection
  • Anti-noise mics and speakers 
  • Superb picture quality
  • Four cameras included

Cons:

  • Supports SD cards up to 32GB
  • Connects to 2.4GHz Wi-Fi band only

Home security has never been this easy. YI is a one-stop security solution designed to keep your loved ones and property safe day or night. You get four cameras, each offering 1080p video quality with far-reaching infrared night vision for the best possible monitoring experience. YI is among the few smart home security options with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant built-in. For accurate motion detection, YI's intelligent edge computing technology can recognize human motion and differentiate it from other motions like flying insects, small pets, or light changes.

Best for outdoors

Blink outdoor weather-resistant security camera

(Image credit: Amazon)

Blink Outdoor weather-resistant security camera

Wireless convenience

 Rain or shine, Blink Outdoor will not let you down.

Pros:

  • Two-year battery power
  • Water and weatherproof
  • Two-way audio
  • HD streams

Cons:

  • Iffy night vision 

Blink Outdoor packs a big punch into a tiny package, giving you access to simple, wireless outdoor home surveillance. You can literally mount it anywhere with Wi-Fi network access. You get to see when deliveries arrive, when family visits, when the lawn service comes, and more. This camera is powered by two AA batteries with a two-year running capacity which is pretty convenient. Just like the Blink Indoor, you also get motion detection alerts and the option to customize alert zones.

Ring the alarm

Ring spotlight cam battery HD security camera

(Image credit: Ring)

Ring Spotlight Cam battery HD security camera

Remote-activated siren

The most intuitive security camera and spotlight combination on the market.

Pros:

  • Superb HD video with night vision
  • Weather-resistant
  • Totally customizable motion detection
  • Intuitive app
  • Alexa compatible

Cons:

  • Short battery life

Ring Spotlight camera is the ultimate gadget for any security-conscious homeowner. This ingenious wireless unit runs on a rechargeable battery. You can add a second battery for longevity or connect a solar panel so you never run out of power. A 1080p camera offers a clear view, and the LEDs serve as both light and support for night vision, taking the spooky out of the darkness and making it bright enough to see who’s there. The accompanying app lets you adjust motion detection sensitivity and receive instant alerts with 30-second video clips. 

Brighter night vision

WYZE Cam v3 HD indoor/outdoor video camera

(Image credit: Wyze Labs, Inc.)

WYZE Cam v3 HD indoor/outdoor video camera

Everything you need in a camera without the hefty price tag

Comes with a Starlight Sensor to pierce through the darkness for vivid color footage.

Cons:

  • Built-in microSD card slot
  • Quite affordable
  • Excellent night vision

Pros:

  • Needs a power outlet

The Wyze Cam v3 remains one of the best budget surveillance cameras perfected for use indoors or outdoors. 1080p Full HD means that the camera captures vibrant daytime videos and images, while the all-new Starlight Sensor gives vivid and spectacular footage even in complete darkness. With extras like excellent motion detection, two-way audio, and free 14-day cloud storage, this nifty camera outshines competitors far above its price range. You also get a built-in microSD slot to save footage yourself. 

Keep an eye on your property

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I am sure by now you have a better idea of what to look for when selecting the best security camera. If you are in search of a compact model with two-way communication, the Blink Mini compact indoor plug-in security cameras are a great buy. They are small, unobtrusive, and equipped with night vision for reliable surveillance whenever you need an extra set of eyes. 

The Blink Outdoor weather-resistant security camera is optimized to stand against harsh weather elements, making it great for use outdoors. Because it's wireless, installation isn't limited by power outlets, and you don't have to worry about pesky power cords dangling around.  

With the Ring Spotlight Cam battery HD security camera, you get to keep tabs on your property while deterring nosy intruders, thanks to a remotely activated siren.

Why trust us?

At GardeningEtc, we recommend the best products to enhance your life. As expert curators, we handpick products based on quality and usefulness to positively impact your day-to-day, from cart to doorstep. We take our responsibility seriously — testing products, reading reviews, and sourcing knowledgeable outlets to ensure our selections are worthy of your time and money. We deliver detailed product overviews, balancing objective information with subjective opinions, so making the best choice for your home and lifestyle is as easy as possible.

Grace Monene is an avid writer with a keen eye for home and office improvement. She has a knack for finding the best little things that will improve the quality of indoor and outdoor living. When she's not writing, you will typically find her reading or testing out the latest technology.