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Global demand for security cameras is increasing. Research and consulting firm Strategy Analytics projects spending to reach $8 billion in 2019. Many people feel safer in buildings with outdoor security cameras.
Modern home security camera providers deliver systems with high-tech software and support, along with capabilities such as face recognition and object tracking.
The available technical features can make shopping for security cameras seem daunting. However, understanding key factors can help you choose the best outdoor security camera for your home.
What makes the best home security camera?
Most homeowners consider price when choosing security products. Security cameras are available to fit a variety of budgets. Some customers prioritize company reputation and positive customer reviews, while other consumers look for models with certain features. Additional considerations include available technical and security support and artificial intelligence capabilities.
Below are some of the top-rated home security cameras on the market.
Photographicss / Shuttershock
Top 5 best home security cameras
Logitech Circle 2
Price: $130
Amazon average rating: 3.6 out of 5 stars
Best Buy average rating: 4.2 out of 5 stars
The Logitech Circle 2 security camera has an extremely wide viewing angle. The 180-degree views catch any activity on your property. However, the short cord limits placement options. This camera captures HD footage, is night-vision capable and has motion filtering options to catch only relevant activity.
The camera comes with free cloud storage for 24 hours of footage. Features including additional storage and smart time-lapses are available with a subscription.
Google Nest
Price: $200
Walmart average rating: 4.9 out of 5 stars
Amazon average rating: 4.3 out of 5 stars
This corded outdoor camera is completely waterproof, down to the AC adapter. Because the Google Nest is wired, placement options are somewhat limited. This camera is ideal for capturing 1080p video of your porch, deck or backyard. Google Nest features an entirely glass lens that delivers an extremely clear picture, and the camera differentiates human motions, as opposed to motion caused by wind, to reduce unnecessary alerts.
You can set the system to send smartphone alerts, and photos are accessible for up to three hours after the event for free.
Nest is equipped with two-way audio, and it can capture footage nonstop. Google Nest stores footage in the cloud, but a monthly fee is required to access the footage. Additionally, the constant video uploads can drain your internet data.
Eufy Video Doorbell
Price: $160
Amazon average rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars
Video doorbells allow you to see and speak to visitors, without wide surveillance. Eufy’s doorbell offers 2K picture quality and can send facial snapshot alerts to your phone. The doorbell can connect to Google Voice Assistant or Alexa. It records for five-minute intervals, as long as motion is detected, and saves footage from three seconds prior to the event that caused the alert.
Hardwired, with internal video storage, this option is difficult to hack. In fact, Eufy boasts military-grade AES-256 encryption on both transmission and storage. There is no monthly fee to store or watch video.
Arlo Pro 2
Price: $400
Amazon average rating: 4.1 out of 5 stars
Best Buy average rating: 4.3 out of 5 stars
Completely wireless, the Arlo Pro 2 allows you to choose the best security camera placement for your home. Each camera boasts a six-month battery life. You can connect one to four cameras to the base, and the Arlo Pro 2 comes with free storage of seven days of motion-detected cloud footage. You can also store footage in a USB device. Plugging the cameras into outlets unlocks advanced features, including the ability to set activity zones and continuous video recording.
From the base console, the camera can set off a 100-decibel siren to startle intruders. You can also control the alarm from your phone.
Other features include two-way audio, night vision, and 1080p video captured from a 130-degree viewing angle. However, features such as animal-detection filters are only available with a subscription. According to Wirecutter, the Arlo Pro 2 may also leave short breaks between video clips.
Amcrest 2K 3MP Wireless
Price: $74.99
Amcrest average rating: 4.7 out of five stars
Amazon average rating: 3.8 out of five stars
Cold climates, dust, and rain can damage digital equipment. This Amcrest camera is ideal for extreme weather, due in part to its heavy-duty metal housing.
The camera works well in low light and has built-in LEDs for improved night vision. At less than $100, this is one of the most affordable options for home security.
The Amcrest camera includes software to record and view video on your PC, and it works with Alexa through AmcrestCloud. Amcrest offers an optional cloud storage subscription.
The best home security camera for you
The best security camera for your home depends on your specific needs and budget. As cameras gain popularity, home security companies are delivering more and varied options. Have fun choosing the right camera for your home.