10 Best Security Cameras in 2024 – Reviews & Top Picks

Last Updated on Jan 03 2024

Do your packages frequently disappear outside your door? Are you a store owner worried about shoplifters? Security cameras are the ultimate solution to these problems.

The best security camera reviews in this article will help you find a product that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations. Plus, you’ll learn valuable information about how to pick one, which is usually the most challenging part.

Not all security cameras are created equal. Thanks to advancements in optics and cameras, high-level security cameras are wireless. In addition, many home security cameras broadcast the feed directly to your phone. At the same time, those basic CCTV cameras are still quite in demand.

Check out the top picks and read the reviews to find the best security camera for your home or business premises.

A Glance at Our Top Picks (2024 Update)

The 10 Best Security Cameras

1. Lorex Wire-Free Security System with 2 Cameras – Best Overall

The Lorex Wire-Free Security System with 2 Cameras is the best overall as it combines quality, reliability, and convenience. The system includes two wire-free surface-mount cameras powered by batteries and a digital video recorder (DVR) with a 32 gigabyte SD card for storage.

These cameras have infrared (PIR) sensors that detect motion. The cameras wake up and record as soon as there is any motion. This also allows the cameras to conserve battery when there is no movement around.

Also, the wireless cameras are weather-resistant (IP66), meaning they can be used outdoors. The resolution is 1080 pixels, which is more than decent and provides clear video recording. Furthermore, the security camera system uses infrared night vision to record in the dark.

Unlike most security cameras that are only capable of recording video, these wire-free cameras also have a built-in microphone with two-way talk.

You can also view footage remotely with the Lorex Cirrus app. While the system comes with two cameras, the DVR can support up to six. The max distance between the DVR and cameras is 450 feet.

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2. Lorex 4K Ultra HD 8-Channel Security System – Best Value

The Lorex 4K Ultra HD 8-Channel Security System is the best security camera for the money with its four cameras. Like any other modern security system, this security camera system is compatible with various third-party control systems like Alexa and Google Assistant.

However, it also stores footage locally on the DVR with an impressive 2 terabytes of storage. So, it can easily store footage in 4K. The four cameras connect to the DVR with a generously long 60-foot extension cable.

You can also send the feed to your TV to view recorded footage and live feed. While there are four cameras, you can expand the system and add four more. With an 87-degree field of view, it captures most of the room.

It also has Color Night Vision (CNV) technology, which means these cameras can record color footage at night. Since this is a wired security camera system, there’s no need to connect to the internet. However, it can connect to the internet if you prefer.

The cameras support motion detection and activate when they sense motion in their field of view. The cameras can also be installed outdoors thanks to the vandal-resistant and weather-resistant design.

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3. KJM C70 Dome Camera – Premium Choice

The KJM C70 Verifocial Dome Camera is a surface mount security camera with high-quality built and advanced features. It provides a TV line output with a high-definition resolution. This camera is ideal for business settings where more detailed footage may be required.

It can work both during day and night, even in the dark, as the camera is equipped with 48 infrared LEDs for night vision recording. In addition, the menu allows you to customize the video as you want it to be recorded.

As the camera rotates and moves, it can capture video from several directions with a wide view field, unlike traditional stationary cameras, which only have one focus. It has a 2.8–12 millimeter lens. However, the focus is adjusted manually.

Installing it is easy as it comes with the installation cable and instructions. Unfortunately, this is not a wireless or internet-enabled camera.

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4. Blink Outdoor Wireless Outdoor 3-Camera Kit – Best Wireless Security Camera

The Blink Outdoor Wireless Outdoor 3-Camera Kit is a completely wireless security solution with three minimalistic, lightweight, and weatherproof cameras. The cameras are battery operated and run 24/7 with infrared lights for night vision.

The batteries run up to 2 years, after which you’ll need to replace them. These batteries are not chargeable. These cameras are Wi-Fi-enabled and also work with Alexa. The feed from the cameras directly to your phone through the Home Monitor app, where you can customize when to receive alerts. You can set special motion areas where you will get an alert on your phone if any motion is detected.

There’s also the option to subscribe to cloud storage to upload all the footage to the cloud directly.

The cameras are equipped with a microphone and speaker (two-way audio). So, it’s possible to communicate with someone at the door via the camera and mobile app.

Setting up the cameras is easy, as you just need to download and install the app, connect the module, and then add the cameras to the account. It requires a high-speed internet connection.

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5. Wyze Cam v3 – Best Home Security Cameras

The Wyze Cam v3 camera system is the best for the home as the wireless cameras are good for both indoor and outdoor use. The highlighting feature of these security cameras is the color night vision which records videos in color even in the dark, unlike most security cameras that do so in black and white.

The cameras also have two-way audio to communicate with guests and delivery persons. As an outdoor security cam, it can withstand rain and snow, as it has a rating of IP65. It can also be used indoors to keep an eye out on pets or kids when you’re not present in the room.

There’s no module to connect the cameras with as the cameras connect with the phone. Also, each camera has a slot for a microSD card to store footage locally. The card goes in the base and isn’t included in the camera.

This camera has all the features you could ask for in a basic home security camera, including a motion sensor, sound sensor, and night vision. The motion and sound detection features come in handy for alerts when away from home. You can designate the motion detection zones to receive alerts for that specific zone when setting up.

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6. eufy Security eufy Cam 2C 2-Cam Kit

The eufy Security eufy 2-Cam Kit is another wireless home security system that makes it easier to keep an eye out on your porch or backyard. It comes with two small mountable cameras with a modern design.

These are powered by rechargeable batteries that last for 180 days on a single full charge. That’s better than batteries that are not rechargeable and need replacement or rechargeable batteries but need recharging frequently.

A distinctive, rather high-tech feature of this security cam is that its motion detectors alert when there’s motion detected from a human. The human detection technology of the cameras prevents any false alerts due to stray animals.

These cameras are good for outdoor applications as these are rated IP67. In other words, these can easily withstand heavy rain. Plus, there’s night vision as well to take footage when it’s dark indoors or outdoors. For night vision, it has both infrared and color options.

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7. Arlo Essential Spotlight Camera

The Arlo Essential Spotlight Camera system includes three cameras with high-definition video recording. With a spotlight built into the cameras, the cameras can record high-quality footage, including in the dark. As a result, these security cams offer color night vision.

This camera system has no hub or module that serves as the connecting point for cameras. Instead, the cameras can connect to the Wi-Fi directly. The cameras also allow easy communication with people at the door with the two-way audio system.

There are a lot of safety features that come with this security cam system. In addition to setting up alerts, you can also set an emergency notification to be sent to a family member or friend. That way, someone else also gets informed when there’s an intruder or another emergency.

It includes 3 months of free Arlo Secure for 30 days of recording. You’ll have to subscribe to the cloud storage service to continue using that.

The cameras can be controlled with a variety of smart home control systems, including Alexa and Google Assistant.

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8. Chekoh 2K Security Camera

The Chekoh 2K Security Camera is mainly designed for outdoor use for surveillance. It’s a movable camera that has 360-degree views. You only need one of these to survey the entire outdoor area of your home or business premises. However, you might want to use several of these for a larger area.

As this is an outdoor security camera, it is weatherproof with a waterproof rating of IP66. It’s also equipped with motion detection and smart tracking for automatic alerts.

While it’s a Wi-Fi-enabled camera, it needs to be plugged in via a cable. So, it’s not entirely wireless—only the video feed is sent via Wi-Fi. It comes with an app where you can see the live feed and customize settings. For instance, you can select the zones you want to track for motion.

As for night vision, the camera offers color night vision with vivid color display even in dark conditions. However, it can also provide infrared night vision with an even clearer image and video quality.

The camera can house a microSD card to store the footage locally. More importantly, the footage feed is encrypted, making it virtually impossible for any hackers to access the surveillance feed.

The night vision lights can be set up to turn into floodlights and activate the alarm to alert security personnel.

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9. Ctronics PTZ Camera

The Ctronics PTZ Camera is an outdoor security camera with highly advanced features. If you’re looking for a security camera with the zoom-in feature, this Ctronics camera offers 30x optical zoom. In addition, the 5-megapixel camera is ideal for applications where detailed surveillance footage is needed.

This is a Wi-Fi camera that sends footage via the internet. The camera pans at 350 degrees and tilts at 90 degrees, allowing more controlled area surveillance. The camera’s housing is durable and weatherproof up to IP66.

One of its standout features is its night vision powered by seven normal infrared LEDs and two infrared lasers. As a result, the night vision is crystal clear, and you can see details clearly, especially when paired with its zooming capabilities.

It also features a red and blue light alarm that activates when it detects intruders. It does so accurately as it has human detection technology that prevents false alarms.

While it can connect with the Ctronics app, it’s also compatible with FTP servers, which can be incorporated into a larger security system. In addition, footage can also be stored on a microSD card for up to 128 gigabytes.

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10. Lorex HD 16-Channel Security System

For those looking for a larger security camera system with many cameras, the Lorex HD 16-Channel system should suffice. This system includes a DVR with 2 terabytes of storage and can connect with 10 bullet cameras that are completely weatherproof.

While it is a more conventional DVR-based security cam system, it does allow connection with smart home voice control systems like Alexa or Google Assistant.

Two of its 16 channels offer smart person and vehicle detection. So, these channels can be used for the driveway or backyard. That way, the system won’t alert when there’s a stray animal or leaves blowing.

The camera feed can also be displayed on TV with Apple TV or Chromecast. The resolution of the feed is 1080 pixels, including the feed recorded in night vision.

This is not a wireless system, so there’s no issue of Wi-Fi disconnection whatsoever. The cameras offer an 88-degree view field, which is smaller than some of the other cameras on this list. However, it makes up for that with the higher total number of cameras that can be strategically placed to cover all areas.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Pick the Best Security Cameras

Most security cameras for homes have similar features, which may make it difficult to distinguish the good ones from the bad ones. Therefore, this guide will help you pick the right one and get your money’s worth for years to come.

Wi-Fi or Wired?

Wireless cameras that connect with a computer or mobile app with Wi-Fi have become ubiquitous. However, wired cameras haven’t gone obsolete just yet. Yes, wireless cameras do offer a lot more convenience as they send the feed live over the internet and have no clumsy, ugly wires on your walls.

That said, wired cameras may be more feasible in some situations where the Wi-Fi may not work properly round the clock. As wireless cameras rely on Wi-Fi to work, any disruption in it will not record footage or send it on your phone.

Also, note that some cameras also have wires for a power source. These don’t have batteries, so they need to be plugged into a power outlet. Again, this adds to stability because batteries do run out of charge at some point.

So, it all comes down to your needs. For homes with stable Wi-Fi, wireless cameras are the best option.

Resolution

We have seen a massive improvement in the resolution of security cameras in the last decade. No longer is the video on security cams blurry and pixelated. However, you still have multiple options in terms of resolution.

Generally speaking, a 1090-pixel resolution is more than enough for normal security camera needs. Even 720 pixels can work in most scenarios. However, there are 4K resolution security cameras available as well in the market.

These cameras have a better resolution but require a high-speed internet connection. Otherwise, the camera recording may lag or get blurry when the connection is slow.

Weatherproofing for Outdoor Cameras

Most security cameras are installed on outdoor walls and doors where they are susceptible to environmental conditions. Therefore, they need protection from dust, rain, snow, and wind.

When buying a security camera for outdoor applications, make sure to choose one that is weatherproof. To ensure that, check the IP rating. Weatherproof cameras should have a rating of IP65 or above.

Motion and Sound Detection

Motion and sound detection may be considered extra features, but these features have become pretty common in security cameras today. Motion and sound sensors aim to alert the owner if there’s an intruder.

How does it work? The motion or sound triggers the camera to start recording and alert the owner. In some cameras, there are built-in alarms and floodlights as well that start ringing when motion or sound occurs.

Sound detection can come in handy where motion detection fails. Since motion detection may be limited in range, sound detection has a wider range and can detect sounds coming from outside the view field of the camera.

These features are highly recommended for an extra security layer. However, it’s best to invest in a quality camera with motion or sound sensors as you don’t want to be woken up by false alarms all the time. For this purpose, some cameras have human detection features.

Video Feed Storage

Another important consideration to make is where your security camera footage is being stored. Security cameras may store recordings in multiple ways. Many modern cameras have the option of cloud storage, where they directly upload the feed from the camera.

Cloud storage is reliable and convenient, but it comes at a cost. You will most likely also have to manage this footage so you don’t run out of cloud storage. However, most such cameras with cloud subscriptions have a 30-day plan where they store footage for 30 days.

Another common method for cameras to store the footage is on an SD card that goes into the camera. This will require some manual management, but not that frequently, as the memory card alone will be able to store a lot of footage.

Keep in mind that you will have to buy the SD or microSD card yourself.

What is the Difference Between Surveillance Camera and Security Cameras?

Security cameras, or CCTV cameras, typically send footage to a device nearby or to the cloud if Wi-Fi and cloud-enabled. Surveillance cameras send video feeds through the IP networks to remote devices.

Although surveillance cameras are also security cameras essentially, they have some advanced features that regular home security cameras lack. These cameras can pan, tilt, and zoom in and out. Both security and surveillance cameras have night vision to record videos at night in the dark.

Verdict

The best security camera is the Lorex Wire-Free Security System with 2 Cameras because it’s wireless, works with smart homes, and uses high-quality, reliable cameras with night vision. However, those looking for a more traditional and extensive security system should go for Lorex 4K Ultra HD 8-Channel Security System. It comes with multiple cameras that don’t need to rely on Wi-Fi.

The KJM C70 Verifocial Dome Camera is also a great choice as it adds surveillance features to the security camera. Just one is enough to keep an eye out on your outdoor area.

Investing in a security camera is a wise decision as it can keep burglars away and alert you even when you’re away from home.

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Featured Image Credit: Mary Oakey, Unsplash