Security cameras can give you the best way to monitor specific places even when you are not around. Whether it is an office space or your home, you can record videos that you can check at any time in the future. Nowadays, there are even newer models that let you access the cameras remotely and can even notify you of unexpected visitors using motion sensors. They can be in the form of push notifications on phones, emails, or even through Alexa-compatible devices like Echo Show 5.
One example of the latest security camera armed with the best features is the Arlo Ultra 2. Compared to most camera models that only come with either 720p or 1080p resolution, it sports a tremendous 4K resolution. The images can be zoomed and you can still get clear details like plate numbers and faces. Also, it won’t just alert you of visual presence around it, it can also be triggered by noises! Most of all, you can expand it to an even more robust security system using the additional accessories being offered by the brand.
Nonetheless, the Arlo Ultra 2 is a battery-powered type of camera which might not interest other users. With this, there are other wired-type options you can also consider. They are more convenient for others since you won’t have to deal with the charging of batteries or replacing them after every few months. Some examples are the SimpliSafe SCM200, Google Nest Cam Indoor, and Blink Outdoor.
They are produced by some of the most respected brands in the industry of home security. However, besides the name of the brands, there are other boxes to tick when looking for a security cam that will suit both your needs and preferences. First, the features and the controls of the cameras. Most of the models we tested would require a monthly subscription. The additional cost will cover different sets of extra features depending on the brand. Some will allow you to save the videos on the cloud and others will let you control the camera better.
With this, it is true that having a security system can cost you some recurring amounts. Fortunately, there are cost-efficient types of cams that will allow remote saving of files whether with the use of flash drives or SD cards. There are even models like SimpliSafe SCM200 that will notify your phone of sudden movement detections at no extra cost.
If you are looking for a security camera that will fit your allotted budget, we rounded up the best security cameras with features that will give you your money’s worth. Join us as we discuss our findings after comparing and studying the products on our list. To make things more straightforward for you, we underscore their best features and we offer you our comprehensive insights about their performance. Let’s start:
Best Security Cameras Comparison & Rating
Security Cameras | Features |
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1. Arlo Ultra 2 Spotlight Camera
Brand | Arlo |
Video Resolution | 4K |
Power Source | Battery |
Built-in Alarm | Yes |
Arlo Ultra 2 has embraced the future with a complete set of high-tech features that you won’t find just in any security camera models on the market. And when we say complete, we really mean it. As a matter of fact, it is armed with a boatload of smart features that makes it 101% efficient day and night.
Let’s start with the basic features of the security camera and if there is one thing that is most notable about it, it is its astounding 4K video resolution that is truly overwhelming. This enables the camera to perform the best performance from delivering crystal-clear non-warping images to zoom capabilities. The result? Perfect details that will let you see plate numbers and faces clearly. It is even equipped with a colored night vision!
In terms of security, the Arlo Ultra 2 is unbeatable. Upon the purchase of the cams, you get a 3-month trial of Arlo Smart. This enables your security system of powerful capabilities such as 30-day cloud video storage up to 4K, 4K live video streaming, person and package detection, activity zone settings, smoke and CO alarm detection, various notifications, emergency call service, call-a-friend feature, and animal and vehicle detection. You can also use it to scare off unwanted individuals lurking at night using the spotlight and siren that can be set to trigger automatically or manually.
When the trial ends, the abilities of the camera fall to 4K live video streaming, 2-way talk and audio, and app controls. The customization of motion detections will also be removed. To continue the plan, you have the option to purchase the plan at $2.99 a month for one camera or $9.99 a month for up to 5 cameras. So, yes, it is not the cheapest of all options, given that it needs a plan to access all the features of the system. However, seeing how powerful Arlo Ultra 2 is, it is undeniable that every single penny you’ll be spending for it would be worth it.
The brand is also known for the ability of the system to integrate additional accessories like the Arlo Security Mount, Arlo Dual Charging Station, and Arlo Solar Panel. So, what does it mean to you? A complete, powerful, and efficient security system.
2. Google Nest Cam Indoor
Brand | |
Video Resolution | 1080p |
Power Source | Wired |
Built-in Alarm | No |
This cam can compete with other high-end models not just because it bears a respectable brand name, but because of its “intelligent” features. This includes the notifications for different kinds of movements sensed by the camera. The intelligent alerts can notify you of package alerts and familiar faces, making it a true smart cam. It also has an audio sense feature to detect human voices and dog barks near its range. Most of all, the Google Nest Cam Indoor will notify you in case of a smoke alarm and breaking of glass! Pure genius!
It can even perform actions automatically to assure you get the evidence you need for some particular situations. For instance, the camera will provide you a 3-hour snapshot history after movement is sensed. You also have the option to directly share the videos with your family and friends. It is also equipped with other basic features like direct emergency calling using the Google Home app and customizing the sensitivity of the cam using the Activity Zone settings.
Basically, the mentioned features can only be accessed through the plans of the cam called Nest Aware ($6/month) and Nest Aware Plus ($12/month). By having the said plans, you’ll get 30 days of event video history or 60 days of event video history plus 10 days of 24/7 video history. The good news about it is that the prices mentioned cover all the cameras you have at home, compared to the plans of Arlo Ultra 2 and Ring Spotlight Cam that are based on camera unit counts.
As for the camera, it offers 1080p resolution and a 130° field of view. The images, compared to other units like Blink Outdoor, are way better. During daylight, the camera can deliver great details and the images will exceed your expectations. The night vision, on the other hand, is flawless. The shadows and the lines are clear and there is no blur at all. However, it is important to take note that it has a bit of an issue when it comes to the fisheye effect. It is very minimal but can be noticed if you would scrutinize the videos and images carefully.
3. Ring Spotlight Cam
Brand | Ring |
Video Resolution | 1080p |
Power Source | Wired |
Built-in Alarm | Yes |
This Ring Spotlight Cam is one of those all-in-one security camera models that once you installed, you get a reliable, complete security system. Also, compared to other units, the camera itself is bigger and more noticeable with its dimensions of 4.96” x 2.72” x 2.99”. Nonetheless, besides its obvious presence, there are other features that will definitely deter criminals from getting anywhere near it: SIREN and 375 LM LIGHTS. You can activate the latter using a command and the latter gets automatically triggered by motions.
Also, it has a built-in speaker that allows 2-way communication. Using additional compatible Echo devices that support Alexa, you can directly talk to a person at the front of the door. You will also be alerted when someone triggers its sensors. With this, you have a security system with all the things you need.
The camera is wired so there is no need for chargers or batteries which are common concerns about other models. Rain or shine, you can rely on it. You can also do some twitching with the settings, record and review videos and photos, and even share them using the Ring Protect Plan. It costs $3/month per device or $10/month per household. Further, with its Control Center, you can add and remove authorized client devices, shared users, and select linked accounts.
The 1080p videos and the infrared night vision can be compared to the quality of the Google Nest Cam Indoor. It has a field of view of 140° horizontal and 78° vertical. There is a sufficient amount of details. Even at night, the clarity of the videos is something worth to be applauded. The noise level is just right and you get ample view at a considerable range.
4. Blink Outdoor
Brand | Blink |
Video Resolution | 1080p |
Power Source | Battery |
Built-in Alarm | No |
In terms of detailed features, Blink Outdoor isn’t as extravagant as Arlo Ultra 2, but it can be a good alternative for a more affordable security camera at home.
The package comes with a Blink Outdoor camera (dependent on the quantity selected), Sync Module 2, 2 1.5V non-rechargeable AA lithium metal batteries (per camera), mounting kit (per camera), USB cable, and power adapter. All in all, the accessories are enough to get the basic function of the cam working. However, just like the Arlo Ultra 2, you need to subscribe to the plan of the product (Blink Subscription Plan). Though it is just optional, you really need it to access better features. The subscription costs $3 per month per camera or $10 per month for unlimited cameras at a single location.
As for the camera itself, it has decent specs that make it capable of serving your surveillance needs, be it day or night. The camera offers a 1080p resolution and a 110° diagonal field of view. It is also capable of infrared HD night vision that uses a red LED signaling the start of recording. As expected, the details of the videos aren’t as good as what Arlo Ultra 2 offers but it is still reliable enough to get a good view of your home’s surroundings when you are away.
Further, there are lots of other great functions the camera can offer such as efficient low battery consumption. With the right settings and conditions, the battery can surpass the 6-month battery capacity of Arlo Ultra 2. However, given that it is only powered by 2 AA lithium batteries, expect the opposite if you are living in a busy neighborhood. Thankfully, you can customize its motion detection and privacy zones using the app. The app also has two-way audio features.
5. SimpliSafe SCM200 Camera
Brand | SimpliSafe |
Video Resolution | 1080p |
Power Source | Wired |
Built-in Alarm | No |
In terms of practicality, this SimpliSafe SCM200 is the best choice to have. It doesn’t have the gigantic features of Arlo Ultra 2 or the intelligence of Google Nest Cam Indoor but if you just need a cam that will alert you without the need for a subscription, this is your bad boy.
Indeed, without paying another penny, the SCM200 will send you notifications to your phone alerting you of unexpected visitors. It has a range of at least 20 feet and is calibrated to detect the unique heat signature of humans. With this, there is almost no need to twitch it to get the best efficiency in sensing a human presence. You can also use the live view feature of the cam using the SimpliSafe app.
Nonetheless, the brand also offers subscription plans to allow you to get more features. It comes in two options: the Camera Recording Plan and the Interactive Monitoring Plan. The former offers full control of the app and unlimited video cloud recording while the latter comes with all the said features plus a priority police dispatch. Truly amazing.
The old version of the cam used to offer a 720p resolution. Fortunately, the newer variant now comes at 1080p resolution, which makes it more capable of capturing important details. It is also equipped with night vision which can compete with the performance of other cam models. You also get a built-in mic that allows you to hear the conversation within its range. Most of all, it is wired which makes it more convenient in terms of power source.
Best Security Cameras - Buyer's Guide
The first thing you might want to check in a security camera is its video resolution. Commonly, such cameras come at 720p and 1080p resolutions. They are decent enough to capture images and record videos clearly, given the right conditions. However, the quality of their details isn’t that impressive, especially when you zoom the images. With this, it is better to opt for those that come at higher resolutions like the Arlo ultra 2 with 4K resolution. The camera has a pretty good range and can capture even plate numbers and faces clearly even when zoomed. However, keep in mind that when you purchase a security camera with a high resolution, you must also have a reliable internet connection with good upload speed.
Find the security camera that gives you the best controls over its system. This is important, especially that most of them can sometimes be irritating due to sensitive motion sensors. With this, you need detailed settings that will help you customize the sensor of the cam. There are other cameras like Arlo Ultra 2 Spotlight with settings that will let you select the types of movements you just want to be notified about. It also allows you to control the spotlight and siren that can be set to trigger automatically or manually.
The coverage of the camera sensitivity is also important. If your house is just near a busy road, you might need a camera that has a setting for changing the coverage of the cam’s sensor. The same thing goes for the spotlight and siren which can be a problem if you have neighbors just a few feet away.
Normally, you can always access the basic features of security cameras without a subscription. However, it is best to get the subscription offer for further security. Not only will it grant you cloud storage, but you’ll also get access to other helpful features of the system. For instance, there are brands that incorporate priority police dispatch features. With this, you can get the help you need in a matter of a few minutes when you really need it.
Also, check if the subscription cost is just right for you. If possible, it is best to get a plan that charges per household or system. This is ideal if you have multiple cameras around your house. However, if you’re just planning to have just a camera or two, look for a plan that charges per camera unit.
Check the other features of the security camera to make sure it can perform its role effectively. They include phone compatibility, expandability, dynamic range, remote capabilities, motion and audio triggers, storage, and more. Having a camera that is feature-rich will also help you get the best value out of your purchase.
Best Security Cameras - FAQs
This depends on the security camera model you have since some are made for indoor purposes while others are meant to be used outdoors. Also, make sure to check the product specs.
It is always recommended to install security cameras at a height of 8 feet. This should give you the best coverage of an area. However, always check the field of view of the cam and do some adjustments based on your preferences.
Not at all. There are security cameras that can operate without the assistance of a WiFi connection. They can store videos locally using an SD card or a flash drive and commonly employ a loop system.
Security cameras can be wireless or wired. The former commonly uses a battery that can last months, depending on the environment of the camera and its activity. They can also work with the use of solar panels like the Arlo Ultra 2. On the other hand, wired security cameras need outlets to function.
