Home security has become very popular over the last several years. You no longer need to hire a company to come out and install cameras. Now, you can take your security into your hands. You can install the cameras where you want, and you can even talk to people as they approach your house.
The best part of installing your security system is receiving motion detection notifications on your phone. You no longer have to wait for the security company to call you. But how do you choose the best home security system?
You can start your search with the top five camera systems that we recommend. We have chosen these cameras due to their versatility, usability, connectivity, and more. Hopefully, these recommendations are your first and last stop on your search for a camera security system.
Blink Camera
Best Overall
Wire-free Outdoor Camera
You can see what is happening live in front of your camera using the Blink app. You can also customize your alerts through the app. It’s perfect for keeping your home surveilled and safe.
Pros:
- Connects to Alexa
- Batteries will last up to two years
- It comes as a kit of 1 to 5 cameras
- It has infrared night vision
- Easy wireless installation
- It can be used indoors or outdoors
Cons:
- Battery operated
- Have to subscribe to a service to save videos
Hiseeu Camera
Top Contender
Ample Memory Space
When motion is detected, the camera will take a screenshot and send it directly to your email. The system will also store videos until 1 TB of memory is reached.
Pros:
- Wireless camera
- It comes as a set of four cameras
- Waterproof camera
- It has colored night vision
Cons:
- It stays at a fixed angle
- It requires batteries
BOAVISION Camera
Runner-up
Most View Options
At night, this camera will turn on the floodlights when it detects motion. The camera will even follow the motion and automatically begin recording.
Pros:
- 360-degree views
- It features 2-way talking
- Waterproof
- The camera can zoom in on the motion
Cons:
- Must be plugged into a power source
- It can be difficult to connect to Wifi
Firstrend Camera
Also Consider
Most Cameras in System
With this camera system, you can monitor and play back videos on your phone, laptop, or tablet. The system comes with 3 TB of memory.
Pros:
- Wireless system
- It can be used indoors or outdoors
- Cameras and base are connected before shipping
- 65 feet of night vision
- It comes as a system of eight cameras
Cons:
- It can have connectivity issues
- You may have to restart the system frequently
YI Security Camera
Honorable Mention
Most Versatile
This camera detects animals, people, and vehicles. It will send you a notification every time it detects one of these objects. You can also turn the camera off when you are home.
Pros:
- Night vision
- 2-way audio
- Works with Alexa and Google
- It comes as a pack of 2 or 4 cameras
Cons:
- There can be connectivity issues with the app
- You will have to subscribe to obtain some features
FAQs
What is the Difference Between Wireless and Wire-Free?
A lot of at-home security systems are advertised as being wireless. Wireless means the camera does not have a wire that connects it to the base or home box. However, these cameras often still have a wire to plug them into a power source. In contrast, wire-free cameras are battery-operated and do not contain any wires for power sources or to send a video feed.
Can You Add Additional Cameras to The Main Box?
Some systems will allow you to connect more cameras than those originally with the set. In general, eight cameras are the most cameras that you can connect to a box. However, you should check your instruction manual as you may not be able to connect that many cameras.
Buying Guide
You know that your home will feel safer once you install a system of cameras. The problem is choosing the perfect system for your home and family. You should keep the following things in mind when choosing your camera security system:
- Subscriptions: Not every camera system will require a subscription for the initial setup. However, you may not be able to access all of the camera’s features without paying for a subscription. For example, the camera may have limited storage, but your videos will be automatically saved to a cloud when you purchase the subscription.
- 2-way Audio: The 2-way audio is great for cameras at the front door. The feature allows you to tell the mailman where to leave your package. You can also use the feature to talk to your child or dog when they are home without you. Many pet parents love checking in on their dogs and talking to them throughout the day.
- Hub or No Hub: You do not always need to purchase a hub for the cameras. If you have a small house or only want one camera for your front door, you will not need to purchase a hub. Hubs give you the ability to add multiple cameras to one system. However, some camera systems do require a hub for use. The hub can also unlock features that may otherwise be unavailable without it.
- Wireless or Wire-free: Wire-free cameras are often battery-operated. The nice thing about battery-operated cameras is that they do not have to be installed near an outlet. On the other hand, they can be difficult to remove when the battery dies. You also do not have to worry about them shutting off when the power goes out. In contrast, wireless cameras still have a power strip meaning they need to be placed near a power source. These cameras are wireless because they do not have to be plugged into the base unit.
