Protecting your property doesn’t have to break the bank anymore. Outdoor security cameras have quickly become accessible, budget-friendly, and easy to install. Whether you’re looking to monitor entry points, keep an eye on deliveries, or watch over your pets and loved ones outdoors, these devices offer a versatile solution. By covering vulnerable points around your home’s exterior, you can detect intruders early, discourage potential break-ins, and trace porch pirates before they take from your doorstep.
Beyond crime prevention, outdoor security cameras also make life easier by letting you monitor your family’s comings and goings—with insight into exactly when the kids get home or how often the dog sneaks off to dig in the garden. However, these perks come with a few trade-offs. You should be ready for ongoing maintenance to swap batteries or ensure system updates and prepared to evaluate the potential privacy risks of any internet-connected devices you introduce into your home.
Having tested a wide range of security cameras over the past few years, we’ve pinpointed the absolute best options on the market. Before diving into specific products, this guide will help you assess what features are essential, offer critical buying tips, and highlight what to consider when picking the right device for your needs. Those interested in exploring broader security solutions can also check our in-depth reviews of the Best Indoor Security Cameras, Best Video Doorbell Cameras, and Best Pet Cameras to build a well-rounded system for your home.
(Note for 2025 Update): We’ve added an exciting new release from Aqara and expanded our honorable mentions to include noteworthy cameras from Reolink, Annke, Aosu, and Baseus.
Expert Tips for Choosing the Right Outdoor Security Camera
When you start shopping for outdoor security cameras, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer number of models and features. Avoid making a hasty purchase and follow these thoughtful tips to ensure your new camera fits your safety needs, budget, and technical setup.
1. Be Brand-Savvy to Protect Your Privacy
With cameras that are constantly connected to the internet, choosing a reputable, trusted brand is non-negotiable. While big names like Ring, Eufy, and Wyze have had their share of breaches, their devices undergo rigorous public scrutiny, which often drives immediate fixes and security improvements. Cheap, lesser-known brands, on the other hand, don’t face this pressure and may simply vanish from the market in the event of customer complaints or security scandals.
If you want peace of mind, prioritize brands that demonstrate accountability and offer regular firmware and app updates.
2. Make Security a Priority
Strong cybersecurity is just as important as a camera’s video quality. Look for cameras that enable two-factor authentication (2FA) as an added layer of protection. Biometric app logins, like fingerprint or face unlock, are excellent for convenience and privacy. Stay away from cameras where 2FA is not offered, as anyone with your login credentials could gain access to your footage and livestreams.
3. Keep Your Devices Up-to-Date
Don’t slack on updating your entire network of devices—including not just your security cameras and app, but also your Wi-Fi router. Opt for a camera that supports automatic updates to streamline your security process and ensure vulnerabilities are patched as soon as new threats emerge.
Choosing the Right System for Your Needs
Not all cameras are created equal. Understand the distinctions between wired and battery-powered models, along with other critical considerations, to make the right decision for your home setup.
Wired or Battery-Powered?
- Wired Cameras
These cameras plug directly into a power source, so there’s no need to worry about dead batteries. However, installation can require some drilling to run wires, and your home needs outlets in convenient spots. Also, note that wired systems may stop working during power outages unless connected to a backup source. - Battery-Powered Cameras
Flexible and easy to install, these cameras are ideal if you don’t want to deal with drilling or cables. Most last for months on a single charge, but you’ll need to recharge them periodically or invest in additional batteries. Some battery-powered models offer solar compatibility, giving you a hassle-free, eco-friendly way to keep them running.
Prioritizing Video Quality
Resolution matters when it comes to identifying faces or fine details. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Higher resolutions like 4K offer exquisite detail but demand more bandwidth and storage. Homes with slower internet speeds may prefer 2K or Full HD (1080p) to maintain smoother streams.
- HDR (High Dynamic Range) is a great feature for cameras in areas that experience uneven lighting, such as bright sunlight paired with heavy shadows. It prevents footage from being too bright or too dark, ensuring balance.
- Frame Rates impact video clarity in motion. Stick to cameras with at least 20 frames per second (fps) to avoid choppy, blurry footage.
Connectivity Matters
The majority of outdoor cameras rely on Wi-Fi, usually on the 2.4 GHz band due to its extensive range. Still, some models are compatible with the 5 GHz band, which speeds up streaming but covers a more limited area.
For homes without a strong Wi-Fi signal in outdoor areas, consider cameras with proprietary hubs that double as range extenders, making connectivity hassle-free.
Understand Subscription Models Before Purchasing
Almost all manufacturers offer subscriptions for cloud storage and additional smart features such as people detection and activity zone filtering. Plans typically range between $3 to $20 per month, depending on what’s included. If you’d prefer not to pay recurring fees, opt for cameras with local storage options like microSD slots or hubs that save footage directly. Just know local solutions can limit remote viewing and backup capabilities.
Smart Placement Makes a Big Difference
Placement is just as crucial as the hardware itself.
- Install cameras in visible spots to maximize their deterrence value.
- An ideal height is around 7 feet, angled downward for optimal coverage.
- Configure privacy and activity zones to avoid recording areas outside your property, like a neighbor’s window, which can lead to conflicts or compliance issues.
Minimize False Alerts
Nobody wants their phone buzzing every time a bird or passing car enters the frame. Many high-quality cameras support person detection and exclude irrelevant movements, such as rustling leaves or dogs crossing the driveway.
Light Up the Night with Spotlights
While all cameras offer infrared night vision, adding spotlights enhances footage quality and doubles as an extra crime deterrent. Some cameras even provide color night vision, helping you capture vibrant footage in dim lighting.
Prevent Theft of the Camera Itself
Cameras are outdoor devices, so theft is a genuine concern. Opt for models without onboard footage storage, robust mounting systems, and anti-theft designs. Some companies go a step further with replacement guarantee policies but always read the fine print.
Bulletproof Testing
Our picks are grounded in weeks-long testing processes, ensuring reliability. From day-to-night transitions, live-stream lag, and alerts to app usability and smart integrations, every camera in our list meets strict standards. Features like two-way audio, frame-rate stability, and storage options have also undergone rigorous checks so you don’t have to compromise on convenience or quality.
1. Best Outdoor Security Camera Overall: Arlo Pro 5
If you’re after a reliable outdoor security camera that balances performance and features, the Arlo Pro 5 is an excellent choice. This battery-powered camera delivers crystal-clear 2K video with HDR, ensuring your footage looks sharp even when the lighting is uneven. With a 160-degree field of view, color night vision, and an integrated spotlight for enhanced clarity in low-light settings, it’s built to capture the details you care about most.
The Arlo Pro 5 connects directly to Wi-Fi, so there’s no hub required unless you plan to integrate it with Apple HomeKit (which does require a base station). Over several months of testing, this camera proves itself highly dependable, though occasional live feed lags (2–3 seconds) were noted, and Arlo technical support wasn’t always helpful. Fortunately, firmware updates appear to have addressed most of the issues. While Arlo claims the battery lasts up to eight months, real-world usage varies depending on activity levels. For me, a recharge was needed around the four-month mark in a busy location.
The Arlo app is intuitive and adds value with motion alert filters for people, vehicles, animals, and packages, so you’ll know exactly what’s triggering the camera. Notifications come through quickly and include animated previews or snapshots, which are even easy to review from a smartwatch. Two-way audio offers clear communication, and the built-in siren serves as a deterrent in case of suspicious activity.
To access its full set of features, you’ll need an Arlo Secure subscription, starting at $8 per month for one camera or $13 per month for multiple cameras. This enables smart notifications, cloud video storage for 30 days, and other perks that expand the camera’s capability.
Specs at a Glance
- Max Resolution: 2K
- View Field: 160 degrees
- Storage: Cloud-only (subscription required)
- Audio Features: Two-way audio, Built-in siren
- Smart Home Integration: Amazon Alexa, Google Home, SmartThings, IFTTT (Apple HomeKit support requires hub)
💡 For Higher Resolution: Consider the Arlo Ultra 2 ($200). It upgrades to 4K resolution with a wider 180-degree field of view, making details even crisper. Like the Pro 5, it works best with an Arlo Secure plan, though 4K streams demand more bandwidth and excellent Wi-Fi speed to work seamlessly.
Price Range for Arlo Pro 5: $180, now available for $120 on Amazon.
This camera offers an ideal mix of ease of setup, quality features, and flexible usability. While it comes with some ongoing subscription costs, its performance makes it a standout option for securing your home.
2. Runner-Up: TP-Link Tapo Wire-Free MagCam
For those looking for a budget-friendly outdoor security solution, the TP-Link Tapo Wire-Free MagCam (C425) is an impressive alternative. Despite its lower price, it delivers solid performance with a 2K resolution and 150-degree field of view. It connects directly to Wi-Fi and even allows local video storage with a microSD card, which eliminates the need for ongoing subscription fees if you prefer to store footage yourself. However, it lacks HDR, meaning bright areas can look washed out in strong sunlight. Another tradeoff is the battery life, as the higher video quality depletes the battery faster, requiring a recharge approximately every three months in active areas. If you’d rather not worry about frequent recharging, a version bundled with a solar panel is available for just $20 more.
One standout feature of the MagCam is its magnetic base, which makes installation and adjustments very easy. Switching to night surveillance? The camera offers both a built-in spotlight for basic color night vision and black-and-white night vision for greater clarity in low-light conditions. However, the spotlight’s range is somewhat limited, making the black-and-white mode the better option for viewing distant objects.
The Tapo mobile app is user-friendly and includes features like motion categorization (person, pet, vehicle), customizable activity zones, and privacy zones to fine-tune recordings. Notifications are fast and reliable, though occasional delays in loading the live feed (up to four seconds) were noted during testing. Two-way audio is functional but may sound slightly muffled, and the built-in alarm is helpful as an extra deterrent.
Subscribing to Tapo Care enhances the camera’s capabilities, providing 30 days of cloud video history, rich notifications with snapshots, and advanced video filtering. Pricing starts at just $3.50 per month or $35 per year per camera, making it an economical add-on. For smart home integration, the Tapo MagCam supports platforms such as Amazon Alexa and Google Home, and its feed loads promptly on devices like the Nest Hub.
Specs at a Glance
- Max Resolution: 2K
- View Field: 150 degrees
- Storage Options: Local (microSD card up to 512 GB) or Cloud (subscription required)
- Audio Features: Two-way audio, Built-in siren
- Smart Home Integration: Amazon Alexa, Google Home
💡 Optional Upgrade: If you prefer a more secure way of recording locally, consider the Tapo C420S2 ($120), which is a two-camera kit bundled with an indoor hub for additional storage. Note that it still requires a microSD card for video recording.
Price Range for Tapo MagCam (C425): $78, now available for $65 on Amazon.
Affordable, versatile, and easy to use, the Tapo Wire-Free MagCam delivers excellent value without cutting corners. It’s an ideal pick for homeowners who want reliable outdoor security without a hefty investment.
3. Best Upgrade (For Local Video): Eufy EufyCam S3 Pro
For those who want a premium outdoor security camera system, the EufyCam S3 Pro stands out for its advanced features and robust local storage capabilities. This battery-powered camera system includes on-device AI detection that can recognize people, pets, and vehicles. It also offers face recognition, though it’s not as precise as Google Nest’s Familiar Faces feature. The advantage here is that all processing is done locally, meaning greater privacy with no cloud reliance for these features.
The EufyCam S3 Pro captures video in stunning 4K resolution, delivering crisp, highly detailed footage. Its built-in solar panels are particularly useful, keeping the batteries charged and reducing the need for manual recharging. The system includes a HomeBase S380 hub with 16 GB of built-in storage, which is expandable up to a massive 16 TB for those who need extended recording capabilities. This setup eliminates the need for subscription fees if you prefer a local-only storage solution.
The app offers a wealth of customization options. You can create activity zones, adjust motion detection sensitivity, and enjoy two-way audio communication for interacting with anyone in the camera’s view. The camera also features improved color night vision, making it far superior in low-light situations compared to earlier Eufy models. Additionally, it introduces a radar sensor for more accurate motion detection, although the camera’s frame rate is limited to 15 fps, which may cause some blurring or choppiness, especially in high-motion recordings.
While this system is pricier than many others, it delivers a lot of value for those seeking advanced camera features. Keep in mind a fast, reliable internet connection is essential to benefit from the 4K streaming functionality. Notably, the cameras support Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit, although HomeKit integration limits the video resolution to 1080p. If you prefer cloud storage for added backup, plans start at $3 per month per camera.
Specs at a Glance
- Max Resolution: 4K
- Storage: Local (16 GB onboard, expandable up to 16 TB) or Cloud (subscription required)
- Audio Features: Two-way audio, Built-in siren
- Smart Home Integration: Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit (4K limited to 1080p on HomeKit)
💡 Pricing Options:
- 2-Pack System: $550 on Amazon
- 4-Pack System (More Savings!): Originally $990, now available for $800 on Amazon
The EufyCam S3 Pro is ideal for anyone looking to invest in a future-proof, privacy-friendly, and high-performance outdoor security camera system. Its combination of top-tier resolution, face recognition, and expandable local storage makes it a reliable upgrade for serious security needs.
4. Best Hardwired Outdoor Security Camera: TP-Link Tapo C325WB
If you’re able to run a power cable, the TP-Link Tapo C325WB is an exceptional choice for a hardwired outdoor security camera, particularly for monitoring side entrances or dark corridors. One of its standout features is a large aperture and image sensor that enables color night vision without needing a spotlight. For added security, it includes a motion-triggered spotlight, making it effective even in low-light areas.
The Tapo app provides practical options like motion alerts filtered by people, pets, or vehicles, and you can also set up private zones to block areas you don’t want monitored. This camera is designed to last outdoors with a weatherproof IP66 rating, and it supports local storage with microSD cards up to 512 GB, eliminating the need for mandatory subscription fees.
By default, the camera records at 720p, but video quality improves significantly when you adjust the settings to enable 2K resolution with HDR. This upgrade prevents choppy, overexposed footage and ensures smoother visuals. During testing, I found its AI motion detection needed adjustments to sensitivity settings, as it occasionally misclassified my cat as a person. The live feed generally loaded quickly in the Tapo app but was sometimes slow or unresponsive on smart devices like the Nest Hub.
Hardwired convenience is bolstered by an Ethernet port, though it lacks Power over Ethernet (PoE) support, so you’ll need a separate power source. For those interested in cloud storage, the Tapo Care subscription starts at $3.50 per month and includes benefits like 30-day video history. Despite minor shortcomings, at this price point, the C325WB is an excellent value, particularly for its vivid color night vision.
Specs at a Glance
- Max Resolution: 2K
- Storage Options: Local (microSD card up to 512 GB) or Cloud (subscription required)
- Audio Features: Two-way audio, Built-in siren
- Smart Home Integration: Amazon Alexa, Google Home
- Weatherproof Rating: IP66
💡 Current Price: Originally $100, now available for $68 on Amazon.
For anyone seeking a dependable, feature-rich wired security camera with excellent night vision, the TP-Link Tapo C325WB is an affordable solution that doesn’t compromise on performance.
5. Best Pan-and-Tilt Security Camera: Eufy SoloCam S340
The Eufy SoloCam S340 is a flexible and feature-rich option for anyone in the market for a high-performance outdoor security camera. Combining a wide range of capabilities in a single device, it stands out with its dual lenses and pan-and-tilt functionality. The primary lens offers a 135-degree field of view and captures sharp video with a resolution of 2880 x 1620. Alongside this, a telephoto lens delivers a 3x zoom at the center of the frame, with up to 8x hybrid zoom for detailed close-ups.
This camera is also a pan-and-tilt design, providing 360-degree panning and 70-degree tilting, which ensures wide coverage and flexibility when monitoring large areas. Powered by a rechargeable battery, the SoloCam S340 can run for up to three months, but it includes a solar panel for continuous charging. For localized video storage, the camera is equipped with 8 GB of internal storage, and it can connect to Eufy’s HomeBase S380 for up to 16 TB of expandable space if needed.
The Eufy app adds another layer of convenience, offering motion-triggered alerts and customizable activity zones to reduce false positives. Onboard AI detection can distinguish between humans and vehicles, though it occasionally misidentifies pets. Subject tracking is smooth, and the camera quickly returns to preset positions for efficient monitoring. However, the camera’s 15 fps frame rate may cause blurring or choppiness in fast-moving scenes.
Additional features include a built-in spotlight for better visibility at night and two-way audio for easy communication, though the sound quality could be better. If you prefer cloud backup as a supplement to local storage, plans are available starting at $3 per month. The SoloCam S340 is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Home, making it easy to integrate into your existing smart home setup.
Specs at a Glance
- Max Resolution: 3K (2880 x 1620)
- Storage Options: Local (8 GB onboard, expandable with HomeBase S380) or Cloud (subscription required)
- Audio Features: Two-way audio, Built-in siren
- Smart Home Integration: Amazon Alexa, Google Home
- Pan/Tilt Range: 360° pan, 70° tilt
💡 Price: Available for $200 on Amazon.
Whether you need full-area coverage, reliable performance, or local storage flexibility, the Eufy SoloCam S340 ticks all the right boxes. With its clever mix of solar power, pan-and-tilt capabilities, and smart detection, this camera is built for users who prioritize functionality and ease of use.
6. Best Hardwired Pan-and-Tilt Security Camera: Ezviz H8 Pro
If you want to monitor a wide area with fewer cameras, the Ezviz H8 Pro is a reliable and versatile solution. This sphere-shaped security camera offers an impressive 340-degree horizontal pan and 80-degree vertical tilt, ensuring broad coverage. It connects via Wi-Fi or Ethernet and comes with an L-shaped bracket, allowing you to easily mount it on a wall or under an overhanging roof section. Designed for outdoor use, it includes weatherproofing but must be plugged into a power outlet since it doesn’t feature a built-in battery. For local video storage, the camera supports microSD cards up to 512 GB (sold separately) through a securely hidden slot.
Recording at 2K resolution, the H8 Pro delivers detailed footage. It features on-device person detection, which has been consistently accurate during testing. The camera’s black-and-white night vision is sharp, and when it detects motion, its two spotlights turn on to provide clear color nighttime footage. At a smooth 30 frames per second, it does an excellent job capturing motion, though the lack of HDR can make video quality suffer in scenes with mixed lighting.
The Ezviz app is a bit cluttered but performs reliably, loading the encrypted live feed quickly. The app allows you to save preset positions for the camera, so while you’ll have to manually reset it to your desired view after panning, those shortcuts save time. The camera can also track moving subjects and will return to the last preset position once the tracked subject leaves the frame.
Another handy feature is two-way audio, though the sound is somewhat distorted during use. If you’re looking for additional storage options, the Ezviz CloudPlay service starts at $4 per month for a single camera, providing seven days of cloud video history. While this is optional, it’s worth noting that the cloud fees can add up if you plan to expand your system.
For those who may not need 2K resolution or tracking, Ezviz also offers alternative models like the C8C, which is more budget-friendly at around $70, although it does lack some advanced features like subject tracking.
Specs at a Glance
- Max Resolution: 2K
- Storage Options: Local (microSD card up to 512 GB) or Cloud (subscription required)
- Audio Features: Two-way audio, Built-in siren
- Smart Home Integration: Amazon Alexa, Google Home
- Pan/Tilt Range: 340° pan, 80° tilt
💡 Price: Available for $150 on Amazon.
The Ezviz H8 Pro is a strong contender for those seeking a pan-and-tilt camera with excellent flexibility, accurate motion detection, and a robust local storage option. Its wide coverage and night vision make it a valuable addition to any home security setup.
7. A Continuous Pan-and-Tilt Camera: Reolink Altas PT Ultra
The Reolink Altas PT Ultra sets itself apart from other pan-and-tilt outdoor security cameras with its ability to support continuous recording at up to 4K resolution. This feature makes it an excellent choice for those who don’t want to miss a moment, even before motion is detected. The camera offers a 355-degree pan and 90-degree tilt, providing nearly complete coverage. Designed for flexibility, it supports both Wi-Fi 6 (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) and includes an L-shaped bracket for easy installation on walls or roofs.
Powering the Altas PT Ultra is a 20,000-mAh battery, making it bulkier than most other options, but its size is offset by the convenience of an optional solar panel that can keep the battery charged in sunny conditions. However, in areas with less sun—like wintery Scotland during testing—regular charging may be required, especially if you’re using the continuous recording feature. Video can be stored locally on a microSD card (up to 512 GB), on a Reolink Home Hub with expandable storage (up to 1 TB), or through cloud storage (starting at $3.50 per month).
This camera records continuously at a low frame rate (5 fps by default, adjustable to 1, 2, or 10 fps) and shifts to a higher frame rate when motion is detected, though it tops out at 15 fps. Clips include a helpful 10-second pre-recorded buffer, ensuring you capture important moments before motion activation. Video quality is crisp and clear, though the lack of HDR can result in overexposed bright areas. Color night vision is impressive when some light is available, and there’s a spotlight for complete darkness.
Additional features include on-device AI detection to identify people, vehicles, and animals and the ability to track subjects while they move. The camera automatically returns to its starting position once tracking is complete. Alerts are sent promptly, the live view loads quickly, and the two-way audio works, though it can experience slight delays. For added security and convenience, pairing the camera with the Reolink Home Hub allows centralized storage for up to eight cameras, making it an excellent solution for multi-camera setups.
Specs at a Glance
- Max Resolution: 4K
- Storage Options: Local (microSD card up to 512 GB, Reolink Home Hub) or Cloud (subscription required)
- Audio Features: Two-way audio, Built-in siren
- Smart Home Integration: Google Home
- Pan/Tilt Range: 355° pan, 90° tilt
💡 Price Points
- $144 (originally $180) on Amazon
- $170 (Storage and Solar Bundle)
- $240 (Hub and Solar Bundle)
If you need a battery-powered security camera that supports continuous recording and robust local storage options, the Reolink Altas PT Ultra is a standout choice. Its rich feature set, versatile installation, and advanced tracking make it a reliable option for comprehensive outdoor monitoring.
8. Best Wide-Angle Camera: Reolink Argus 4 Pro
Covering a wide area with a single security camera is no small task, but the Reolink Argus 4 Pro offers a clever solution. Equipped with dual lenses, this camera creates a seamless 180-degree panoramic view by stitching two 2K video feeds together. While its claim of 4K resolution might be a stretch, the resulting 5120 x 1440-pixel footage is undeniably crisp and detailed. The wide-angle lens makes it ideal for monitoring large spaces, such as the side of a building or multiple entry points, and the color night vision is exceptionally good when some light is available.
For added flexibility, you can save footage locally using a microSD card (up to 512 GB, not included) or pair it with the Reolink Home Hub for secure indoor storage. There’s also support for NAS and FTP, a rarity among security cameras, and cloud storage is an option starting at $3.50 per month. What’s even better is that you can use this camera without needing to create an account, which prioritizes user privacy. Connectivity is strong and reliable thanks to dual-band Wi-Fi 6 compatibility.
The Argus 4 Pro’s features include motion zones, adjustable sensitivity, and the ability to filter different motion types, such as people, vehicles, or animals. Additional functions like the built-in 300-lumen spotlight, siren, and two-way audio further enhance its usability.
However, it’s not without limitations. The frame rate is capped at 15 fps, which can make fast-moving subjects appear blurry, and the camera may be slightly slow to trigger recordings. The narrow vertical field of view means it might miss activity happening directly beneath it. Battery life is another concern, especially during demanding usage. While the included solar panel helps keep it running, the panel’s bulky appearance may not appeal to everyone. Additionally, reviewing footage on a phone can be less intuitive due to the ultra-wide aspect ratio, which requires landscape orientation for better clarity.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the Reolink Argus 4 Pro shines as a wide-angle camera perfectly suited for users who want local recording options and broad coverage in a single device.
Specs at a Glance
- Max Resolution: 4K (stitched 2K + 2K)
- Storage Options: Local (microSD card up to 512 GB, Reolink Home Hub) or Cloud (subscription required)
- Audio Features: Two-way audio, Built-in siren
- Smart Home Integration: Amazon Alexa, Google Home
💡 Price: Currently $120 (originally $150) on Amazon
For anyone looking to secure large spaces with minimal hassle, the Reolink Argus 4 Pro offers a wide-angle view, solid local storage options, and reliable smart features. It’s a standout choice for those who value both coverage and convenience.
9. Best LTE Camera: Arlo Go 2
For areas with little or no Wi-Fi coverage, the Arlo Go 2 proves to be a reliable security camera powered by 4G LTE connectivity. This makes it perfect for remote locales, whether it’s for camping trips, monitoring an RV, or setting up surveillance in an off-the-grid spot. U.S. users can get LTE service through providers like T-Mobile, Verizon, AT&T, Cellcom, or UScellular, ensuring flexible coverage options.
Despite its reliance on cellular networks, the video quality remains solid with 1080p resolution, designed to balance quality while conserving data. Additional features include two-way audio, a siren, and a spotlight for color night vision. You can also opt for local storage by inserting a microSD card (up to 2 TB, sold separately), though it’s worth noting that locally stored video cannot be accessed remotely.
Completely wire-free, the camera has an IP65 weather resistance rating and is powered by a robust battery that can last about two months (mine was still at 39% after two months of use). If recharging is a concern, Arlo offers an optional solar panel for $60, perfect for maintaining power in areas where regular charging isn’t feasible.
The Arlo app delivers a premium user experience, complete with smart alerts and rich notifications. You can customize detection filters for people, animals, vehicles, or packages. Alerts proved to be both fast and accurate during testing, though LTE signal strength could affect performance. One standout feature of the Arlo Go 2 is its ability to switch seamlessly to Wi-Fi when available, making it an excellent choice for RV owners who move between signal areas.
While the camera offers great flexibility, it does come with added costs. You’ll need an Arlo Secure subscription (starting at $8/month for a single camera or $13/month for unlimited cameras) and a data plan, so expenses can add up quickly.
Specs at a Glance
- Max Resolution: 1080p
- Storage Options: Local (microSD card up to 2 TB) or Cloud (subscription required)
- Audio Features: Two-way audio, Built-in siren
- Smart Home Integration: Amazon Alexa, Google Home, IFTTT
- Connectivity: LTE and Wi-Fi
💡 Price: Currently $225 (originally $250) on Amazon
For those seeking a mobile, versatile security solution that thrives in connectivity-limited environments, the Arlo Go 2 is a standout option with a thoughtful mix of features and adaptability. It’s the perfect choice for anyone who needs remote surveillance without relying on a traditional Wi-Fi connection.
10. Best Floodlight Security Camera: Eufy Floodlight Cam E340
For those seeking a security camera that doubles as a powerful outdoor light source, the Eufy Floodlight Cam E340 is an impressive choice. This dual-lens camera pairs a 3K wide-angle lens with a 2K telephoto lens, capable of offering up to 8X zoom to detail objects as far as 50 feet away. With two adjustable light panels producing up to 2,000 lumens of brightness, it’s a practical solution for illuminating a driveway, backyard, or entry point. While brighter floodlight cameras are available for expansive areas, the E340 provides ample light for most homes.
Adding to its flexibility, the camera supports 360-degree panning and 120-degree tilting, giving you broad coverage. It can be installed on a wall or ceiling, making it a great under-eave option. For local video storage, you can insert a microSD card (up to 128 GB) or connect to Eufy’s HomeBase 3 (sold separately). Additionally, cloud storage is available, starting at $3 per month for 30-day event history. A standout feature of the E340 is its continuous recording capability, ensuring comprehensive coverage without interruption.
Eufy’s onboard AI offers swift and mostly reliable alerts, identifying humans, pets, and vehicles. Occasionally, larger pets like cats might get flagged as persons, but overall detection accuracy is solid. You can create activity and privacy zones to fine-tune monitoring, while features like black-and-white night vision, two-way audio, and a 95-decibel siren enhance its utility. The AI tracking efficiently follows subjects within the frame and restores the camera to a pre-set position once they leave. You can also save preset patrol positions and customize the light intensity and schedule to fit your needs.
However, like some other security cameras, the 15 fps frame rate can result in motion blur for fast-moving subjects. Additionally, professional installation may be required, as the camera is hardwired.
Specs at a Glance
- Max Resolution: 3K wide-angle lens and 2K telephoto lens
- Storage Options: Local (microSD card up to 128 GB, HomeBase 3) or Cloud (subscription required)
- Audio Features: Two-way audio, Built-in siren
- Smart Home Integration: Amazon Alexa, Google Home
- Light Panels: 2,000-lumen total output
💡 Price: $219 at Amazon
With its versatile camera setup, powerful floodlighting, and seamless tracking abilities, the Eufy Floodlight Cam E340 is an excellent choice for those wanting both illumination and robust home security in one device.
11. Best for Google Home Households: Google Nest Cam (Battery, Outdoor)
If your home is powered by Google Assistant, the Google Nest Cam (Outdoor) is the perfect addition to your smart security setup. Designed with convenience in mind, this battery-powered camera is renter-friendly and easy to install. The mounting plate and proprietary magnetic mount allow for quick adjustment, making it simple to find the ideal angle. With a 130-degree field of view, it effectively covered my driveway, front door, and most of the front yard.
The camera captures sharp 1080p video, supports HDR, and delivers clear night vision footage. The built-in speaker and microphone provide crisp two-way audio for real-time conversations. Alerts are quick and accurate, with motion detection sensitive enough to identify even subtle movements, like a passing ponytail.
To use the Nest Cam, you’ll need a Google account and the Google Home app. While the camera functions without a Nest Aware subscription, subscribing for $8 per month or $80 annually unlocks extra features like facial recognition and 30-day event history. These features make the Nest Cam incredibly useful, particularly if paired with a Nest Doorbell for a seamless home surveillance network.
Battery life is solid, lasting just over a month before requiring a recharge. If you’re considering another option, the Nest Cam with Floodlight is also worth a look. Although it uses the same camera, it includes powerful floodlights and must be hardwired to provide continuous power to both the lights and battery.
Specs at a Glance
- Max Resolution: 1080p with HDR
- Recording: Cloud only (Nest Aware optional)
- Audio Features: Two-way audio
- Smart Home Integration: Google Home
💡 Price: Currently $130 (originally $180) on Amazon
For Google Home enthusiasts, the Nest Cam (Outdoor) offers an easy-to-use, smart security solution with dependable video quality and seamless integration with your existing ecosystem. Its simple installation, solid features, and optional subscription benefits make it a top choice for smart home security.
12. Best for Matter-Powered Smart Homes: Aqara Camera Hub G5 Pro
The Aqara Camera Hub G5 Pro is a standout choice for creating a seamless, smart outdoor security setup. Designed to work as more than a camera, it doubles as a Matter controller and a Thread border router, making it ideal for homes equipped with smart outdoor lighting and other backyard devices. It can also serve as a Zigbee hub, though this feature remains exclusive to Aqara’s own devices.
With its 2K video resolution and 133-degree field of view, the G5 Pro delivers clear and wide coverage. The camera’s large sensor, featuring an f/1.0 aperture, ensures outstanding color night visibility. Other core features include a 100-decibel siren, two-way audio with reliable sound quality, and a spotlight to enhance nighttime monitoring. The onboard AI adds to its capabilities by detecting people, vehicles, animals, and packages, while the app offers robust functionality, including options for lingering detection and sound alerts.
For local storage, the G5 Pro includes 8 GB of internal memory and supports NAS storage via RTSP or SMB. If you prefer cloud storage, an Aqara HomeGuardian subscription is available, starting at $5 per month or $50 annually for one camera. Opting for a subscription unlocks advanced features like event filtering, SMS or email alerts, and video sharing, making the service worth considering for advanced users.
This versatile camera is also a top pick for Apple HomeKit users, provided you have a HomeKit hub like an Apple TV or HomePod Mini. Pairing with HomeKit enables rich notifications and convenient video playback from your iPhone’s lock screen. However, HomeKit Secure Video limits the resolution to 1080p and requires an iCloud storage plan to save recordings.
While the G5 Pro works for other platforms like Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Samsung SmartThings, one drawback is its reliance on a wired power connection. You can choose between two models to suit your setup needs – the Wi-Fi version (powered via USB-C) or the PoE version (via Ethernet cable).
Specs at a Glance
- Max Resolution: 2K (1080p with HomeKit)
- Recording Options: 8 GB internal storage, NAS (RTSP, SMB), or Cloud (subscription required)
- Audio Features: Two-way audio, Built-in siren
- Smart Home Integration: Matter, Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit, Home Assistant, Samsung SmartThings
💡 Price: $180 for Wi-Fi version, $200 for PoE version (both available on Amazon)
Whether you’re outfitting a Matter-ready smart home or looking to expand your HomeKit ecosystem, the Aqara Camera Hub G5 Pro offers an exceptional mix of smart features, storage flexibility, and reliable security performance.
13. Best for Amazon Alexa: Ring Spotlight Cam Pro Battery
If you’re already using a Ring doorbell, adding the Ring Spotlight Cam Pro Battery to your backyard setup is a smart move. By staying within the Ring ecosystem, you can manage all your devices seamlessly through one app. This camera delivers 1080p video at a smooth 30 fps, complete with HDR support for balanced lighting in diverse conditions. With a 140-degree field of view, it easily captures wide areas like backyards and side entrances.
The dual motion-activated LED spotlights offer bright illumination, while a siren and two-way audio add layers of security. One standout feature is the color pre-roll capability, which records four seconds before a motion event, ensuring you never miss a moment. The camera also boasts Bird’s Eye Zones, giving an aerial view and customizable motion boundaries, which is especially useful for setups near streets or shared spaces. Its support for dual-band Wi-Fi ensures a reliable connection, and the person detection feature works flawlessly, avoiding false alerts from pets or moving objects like lawn equipment.
However, many features shine only with a Ring Protect Plan, available for $5/month for one camera or $10/month for multiple cameras. The subscription unlocks advanced capabilities like person alerts, rich notifications, and cloud storage for recorded videos.
Battery life can be a concern. When positioned in a high-activity zone with all features enabled, the battery lasted about three weeks in testing. Thankfully, its quick-release design makes swapping out batteries hassle-free, and investing in a spare battery ($35) is highly recommended to avoid downtime during recharges.
The Ring app offers a robust feature set, including in-app tutorials that simplify setup, though navigating all the features can feel overwhelming at first. For those on a budget, comparing the Spotlight Cam Pro with Ring’s cheaper models is worth considering to avoid overspending on features you may not need.
Specs at a Glance
- Max Resolution: 1080p with HDR
- Recording Options: Cloud-only (Ring Protect Plan optional)
- Audio Features: Two-way audio, Siren
- Smart Home Integration: Amazon Alexa
💡 Price: $160 (originally $230) on Amazon
With its excellent video quality, reliable motion detection, and seamless Alexa integration, the Ring Spotlight Cam Pro Battery is a top pick for households already invested in the Ring ecosystem. Its advanced features and flexible setup make it a standout choice for backyard surveillance.
14. Sync Your Smart Lights with the Philips Hue Secure Camera
For smart homes already outfitted with Philips Hue lights, the Philips Hue Secure Camera range offers a natural extension to your ecosystem. Available in two models—Hue Secure Wired Camera and Hue Secure Battery Camera—both deliver crisp 1080p video and come with an IP65 weatherproof rating, making them suitable for outdoor use. These cameras feature a 140-degree field of view, two-way audio, and a siren for added security.
Installing the cameras is straightforward, thanks to the magnetic mount, and the wired version includes a 10-foot cable for added flexibility. The cameras are quick to deliver motion alerts, and loading the live feed in the Hue app is impressively fast. However, to unlock advanced features like smart detection (filtering by person, animal, vehicle, and package) and 30-day cloud storage, you’ll need a subscription costing $4 per month or $40 per year per camera.
One of the standout features of these cameras is how seamlessly they integrate with your Philips Hue smart lights. Using a Hue Bridge, you can configure the cameras to trigger indoor or outdoor lights when motion is detected. For instance, pairing the Battery Camera with a Discover Outdoor Floodlight ensures no more stubbed toes during late-night trash runs. Additionally, you can customize light settings based on the time of day or integrate Hue motion sensors or contact sensors to build a broader security system.
The AI works effectively, ensuring accurate alerts, and all video content is protected with end-to-end encryption. On the downside, there’s no local storage option, and battery reliability can be a concern. During testing, the Battery Camera’s charge lasted around two weeks before draining more rapidly than expected, though recharging restored normal performance (albeit after an eight-hour charge time). The wired camera, meanwhile, offers consistent reliability without the need for frequent recharging.
Specs at a Glance
- Max Resolution: 1080p
- Recording Options: Cloud-only (subscription required)
- Audio Features: Two-way audio, Siren
- Smart Home Integration: Philips Hue
💡 Price:
- Battery Camera: $110 (originally $160) on Amazon
- Wired Camera: $90 (originally $130) on Amazon
While the Philips Hue Secure Cameras are a bit pricey, their ability to sync with the Hue ecosystem makes them an attractive pick for existing Philips Hue users. If you’re ready to blend security, smart lighting, and responsive controls, these cameras can be a valuable addition to your setup.
15. A Solar-Powered Light and Camera: Eufy Security Solar Wall Light Cam S120
The Eufy Security Solar Wall Light Cam S120 is a smart pick for anyone looking to simplify outdoor security with a solar-powered solution. This device combines a 2K resolution camera with a 300-lumen motion-activated light, making it perfect for side paths, backyards, or other sunny areas. Its integrated solar panel requires just two hours of sunlight per day to stay charged, eliminating the need for frequent manual recharging or messy wiring.
While its camera isn’t Eufy’s top-of-the-line offering, it still delivers reasonable footage quality with crisp resolution at 2K, despite being limited to a 120-degree field of view and a 15 fps frame rate. Features like night vision, a built-in siren, and two-way audio (albeit one way at a time) enhance its functionality. The motion alerts are reliable, and you can customize settings in the app, such as human-only detection, privacy zones, and adjusting light behavior.
One drawback is that the camera can sometimes lag when loading the live feed or recording events, occasionally missing the start of the action. However, it compensates for this with the benefit of 8 GB of local storage, meaning there’s no need for a subscription to store footage. If you prefer, you can also pair it with Eufy’s HomeBase S380 or opt for cloud storage.
When used in an optimal spot with plenty of sunlight, the S120 proves to be an efficient set-it-and-forget-it security option. It’s a particularly good choice for a side pathway or a backyard where you don’t want to worry about a power supply or extra cables.
Specs at a Glance
- Max Resolution: 2K
- Recording Options: Local (8 GB built-in storage), HomeBase S380, or Cloud
- Audio Features: Two-way audio, Siren
- Smart Home Integration: Amazon Alexa, Google Home
💡 Price: $70 (discounted from $100) on Amazon
The Eufy Security Solar Wall Light Cam S120 is an appealing, budget-friendly option for those looking for solar-powered security. Though it has limitations, its combination of motion lighting, local storage, and solar charging makes it a great pick for the right location.
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