Just tap the camera on the homepage to get a live view, to speak to whoever is in front of the camera, or to take a quick snapshot. The Kangaroo Indoor + Outdoor Camera constantly missed action during our testing.
If you worry about your camera or your memory card being stolen, you can opt for a Eufy Cloud subscription; for iOS devices you can use HomeKit Secure Video so that your video goes directly to the internet, where you can access it using the app. We love how secure the format is, but it periodically misses a lot of actionsometimes for even hours or days at a time. It supports color night vision, too. Choosing a favorite Arlo indoor camera wasnt easy; they were all impressive. It was also a great option for DIY video surveillance, and didnt require us to have a smart home hub. Wyze also offers a clever feature you can toggle on or off called Motion Tagging, which generates a green on-screen box around whatever the camera perceives is moving. Lorex offers plenty of camera choices, which means its easy to find exactly the right device for your particular situation. Also, keep in mind that the cameras here are designed to help you keep tabs on the inside of your house. When purchased directly from Google Nest,Nest IQ cameraswere under warranty for two years. Device owners who prefer to prevent their videos from being shared without prior permission have a few options.
It connected to a magnetic plate that we could leave freestanding or attach to a wall or ceiling. Since the Solo IndoorCam C24 works with Apple HomeKit, as well as with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, you can call up camera feeds on supported devices using voice commands. We decided to take a fresh look at the Ring Indoor Cam, but after two years of our owning the camera, it diedwith only a few months of actual use. Both cameras record 2K resolution video, and provide two-way audio, have a built-in siren, can see to 30 feet with night vision, and support Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. Alexa helped make camera operation easy, too.
If we delayed a few hours, any incriminating video might already be replaced by new clips!
", "Great Camera!This camera not only has great video and pictures but it very easy to install. During our testing, we read each of the privacy policies for our picks, specifically looking for sections that strayed from what we consider to be standard in the category.
Some people may say it feels cheap. Well, it is: A $40 security camera that delivers 2K images, has so many storage options, and detects motion, people, pets, and even cryingwhether you opt for a paid cloud storage plan or notwas, until now, unheard of. Im an ISF-certified TV calibrator and a THX-certified home theater professional, and Im here to help you understand 4K, HDR, Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, and even 8K (and to reassure you that you dont need to worry about 8K at all for at least a few more years). We had a choice of black or white camera housing to help it fit with our home decor. Wi-Fi cameras are great for security but also much more.
The cameras connected to home Wi-Fi with the Blink Sync Module, a gadget that handled up to ten cams. Compatible with: Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT. We even integrated a Wyze camera with basic security sensors for a mini DIY home security set.
Unlike purpose-built baby monitors, which allow you to view a live video and audio stream, indoor cameras tend to time out after a few minutes, which defeats the purpose. During our indoor security camera research, these features, plus night vision and more, were standard on models from the leading brands, and prices started as low as $19.99 per cam!
You have better options, even at this low price. With two-way audio, our cameras let people communicate across the house with inside voices instead of hollering.
In addition, Lorex manufactures digital, Wi-Fi, and even wire-free cameras. Out of the box, the Eufy Solo IndoorCam C24 is noticeably light. Installation was easy. For instance, our friends used a home security camera with motion detection and familiar face recognition to let them know when their toddler was up from a nap. Works with Alexa voice commands and IFTTT. Recordings live on your local storage until its full, at which point the camera auto-deletes the oldest footage automatically. The camera was powered through an AC outlet. These cameras are meant for indoor use only, which contributes to their lower cost compared with outdoor cameras. The camera can send alerts that are triggered by sound, and it can specifically detect crying, which may make it useful as an assistant babysitter. Amazon, which owned Blink, temporarily halted sales of the premium Blink XT2 camera shortly after it launched. All cameras respond to movement, but some can distinguish among people, pets, and passing vehicles.
The Enforcer Security System combines video surveillance and flashing lights to be an all in one crime prevention solution for any home or business.
This article was edited by Jon Chase and Grant Clauser. The Yi 1080p Home Camera has confusing cloud storage that adds $40 to $150 per year to the cost of an otherwise budget camera.
We also had our alertprofessionally monitored by Brinks, just to try it out.
The Blink Indoor is an affordable battery-powered indoor security camera that offers sharp HD video, motion detection, and local and cloud video storage.
Another feature worth noting is Pet Command, which triggers the camera to play an audio clip whenever it detects a pet wandering into a designated activity zone. We focused on Rings cordlessStick Up Cam Batterywith a $99 MSRP. We also look for models that meet the following criteria: For our latest round of testing, we tried each of the cameras in multiple locations around a house, positioning them 6 feet to 30 feet away from our Wi-Fi router, which was connected to Verizon Fios service. Their hubs Z-Wave compatibility gave us infinite options for home automation to enhance home security and/or streamline everyday life with Alexa commands for remote-controlled locks, appliances, and much more. Many of our top-tested home security cameras cost roughly around $200 and some even require an additional subscription.
The Nest mobile app made it easy to filter all the data and find the clips we needed. Also, the free clips are under 15 seconds long. A few home security cameras have optical zoom lenses, but the rest rely on digital zoom; the latter type crop and enlarge whatever the camera is recording. Check out ourReaders' Choice Awardsto see which security cameras and brands other PCMag readers trust most. The v3 even has color night vision, which delivers color images when just the slightest bit of light (such as from a street lamp) is present. After testing 13 new cameras, we've made the Wyze Cam v3 our new runner-up pick. In our testing, we paid particular attention to the recording quality and length, the frequency of alerts, the app interface, the geofencing function, and each cameras smart-home integration. Rating 4.5 out of 5 stars with 98 reviews, "Great security camera w/out need for subscriptionOk, so this does not rotate on a base but when connected to a walk at a high enough height, you'll definitely get larger spatial coverage. The Google Nest Cam is a battery-powered indoor/outdoor home security camera that's easy to install and delivers crisp HD video and intelligent alerts.
We got motion-triggered alerts and livestreamed on our smartphone for free. PCMag, PCMag.com and PC Magazine are among the federally registered trademarks of Ziff Davis and may not be used by third parties without explicit permission. Over all very pleased! Mount the cameras inside or outdoors as their weatherproof design is built to withstand rain, snow and heat, all year round.
The Canary, one of the largest cameras we tested, offers two-way communication with its paid Canary Membership. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. At Security.org, we believed the best indoor home security cameras performed double duty: While guarding us against strangers, they also helped us stay in touch with loved ones.
The 125-degree viewing angle is narrow in comparison with that of some other models we tested, which could be limiting in a small room, but we found that we could move the camera back or angle it and still get a great image, thanks to the 2K resolution. Each model below was easy to install, and we had most of these cameras running within ten minutes of unboxing. (microSD card not included) The Spot even provides night vision to capture activity up to 30 ft. away in the dark and allows you to set custom activity zones around important areas to control what alerts you receive. 
And finally, although the camera is weatherproof, its operating temperature is 32 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit, so it isnt a reliable option for colder climates. Most of the cameras we tested require an AC outlet, so placement is definitely a factor. This deal included 14 days of free cloud storage for motion and sound-triggered events.
Wyzecaught our eyes as the most affordable indoor camera brand for DIY home security.
Works with Alexa, Google, HomeKit, and IFTTT, Some features require Arlo Smart subscription. Even though 1080p is generally the standard resolution for the cameras we test, higher-resolution models (the ones here top out at 2K) offer some benefits; the higher the resolution, the more you can zoom in and still see things clearly. This made Blink most appropriate for those of us who could check security alerts pretty quickly. A good rule of thumb: If your smartphone or laptop gets decent Wi-Fi reception in the area you want to mount a camera, you likely wont have a problem. We stored motion-triggered clips to the cloud for only $3 per month or $30 per year if we paid annually. The Kami Mini is priced around the same as our top picks, but the picture isnt as sharp, the 112-degree field of view isnt as wide, and the camera missed a bit of action in our testing. We tested it using YouTube clips of teary people and babies, and it worked without fail. Other cams are suitable for monitoring your baby or even double as full-onhome automation hubs. However, there are some common important points that everyone should understand. We also dont like that its two-way audio is available only with a paid planwhich you can purchase only annually. If a sensor was triggered, the camera started to record. We've tested lots of home surveillance cameras over the last few years, so we know what's important to consider.
Others can identify whoor whatcaused the commotion. With Canarys indoor cameras, it doesnt matter if youre in the Amazon or Google smart home ecosystems, as they work with both Alexa and Google Assistant. It directly connected with our home Wi-Fi network and worked up to 220 feet away from the router. The Arlo Ultra is pricey, but it pumps images up to 4K resolution and produces a great daytime image.
This gave it an edge over only motion-triggered recording, as Arlo often started recording before anyone appeared on screen. The Bosma EX Outdoor Security Camera is fully equipped with advanced features and is known for its award-winning/high-quality design, and affordability. Wi-Fi coverage also affects where you position a camera: If you want to put a camera in a spot that doesnt get a good Wi-Fi signal, consider upgrading your router or adding an extender or repeater. The following list is not exhaustive, but provides a comprehensive overview of what we looked for when selecting our choices for best indoor camera and a starting point for assessing other indoor cameras of interest. Learn more. Any compromises? Ethernet was an option too; an adapter was built-in. Corporate Responsibility & Sustainability.
Free video storage with Arlo took two forms: some Arlo cameras had card slots for local video storage, and all cameras had free cloud storage for motion-triggered clips. However, to get those alerts and any type of storage, you need to subscribe to Arlo Secure (the $3 monthly fee is pretty standard for one camera). People like to keep track of the things that matter to them, whether thats people, pets, or belongings. Were especially impressed by how well the company supports its cameras with frequent updates and added or improved features.
This camera offers a sharp image, four choices for video storage, and a continuous recording option, and it can distinguish between different motions and sounds. Weve been testing many of these cameras for years. It's important that the camera is unobtrusive to your design tastes and, depending on your needs, you may not want it to stand out too much either. Do we need Wi-Fi for home security cameras? Keep in mind that youll only be paying a one-time equipment cost. The Ring Indoor Cam is an affordable smart security camera that delivers sharp 1080p video.
The best cheap home security camera is the Wyze Cam, which sells for only $19.99 but offers 1080p HD video resolution, infrared night vision, two-way audio, and other premium features. (For a deeper look at potential privacy and legal concerns, see our post Security Cameras, Ethics, and the Law.) When youre considering the use of a Wi-Fi camera, the feelings of those in your household should be part of the decision. The 16GB of storage provides ample space for videos, while the three high-resolution cameras capture detailed security footage from multiple angles. PCMag.com is a leading authority on technology, delivering lab-based, independent reviews of the latest products and services. Once you connect your camera, you can access a live view and any recordings via your smartphone or tablet. Eliminate false alarms with accurate person detection and Activity Zoneno more notifications from moving cars and pedestrians!
Read on to learn about the best indoor security cameras for your priorities and budget. The foundation of determining any smart security cameras value was our necessary features test, which was primarily how we picked out the best indoor cameras of 2022 . You may unsubscribe from the newsletters at any time. 
Are your intruders too far to see more detail? We break down any extra fees you need to consider in our reviews.
What are the best indoor security cameras? The use of security cameras does raise important privacy issues, because they allow you to spy without consent not only on family and friends but also on anyone who happens to cross the threshold of your home.
The smart home company Canary makes two indoor security cameras: the Canary Pro, formerly called the Canary All-In-One, and the Canary View, the less expensive option.
We had issues with the Blue by ADT Indoor Camera, as it sometimes missed action, and its motion notifications took longer than those of most other cameras we tested.
Although storing video in the camera is a nice option, we prefer cameras that save footage to the cloud, which is more secure.
Note that should you opt for continuous recording, the video quality is downgraded to 1080p, although you can still get all of the various types of alerts (including person, pet, and crying). Heres what we got, though, when we tested Lorexs lowest-priced option, a 2K Indoor Wi-Fi camera, model W461ASC-E. As you might expect, with so many choices, Lorex cameras come with a wide-range of pricetags. Because of the format-conversion process, Eufys storage service downgrades all cloud recordings to 1080p. For instance, with other cameras weve missed the milk delivery, the mail carrier, package deliveries, and kids grabbing snacks. We independently review everything we recommend. Weve added language to address recent news of companies sharing user data without permission in Security, privacy and indoor security cameras. We bumped it down because our current picks have something better to offer, whether in performance, price, or both. For most cameras, all you need to do is follow instructions from an app to connect them to your network.
The EX also features convenient and easy installation without professional assistance. See your Canary footage on your Echo Show or Fire TV. Recorded video requires cloud subscription. Although that could be interpreted as a bait and switch, functionally we didnt find that this trade-off mattered too much.