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The video surveillance camera or security cameras – better known as IP CAM – are the new frontier of car alarms, especially thanks to very simple installation and integration with smartphones allow the interior view in an easy and fast of your own home or the external via Android or iOS app. All this is possible because they use the direct connection to the wifi router via wireless or ethernet cable, and can be reached remotely via any smartphone or tablet with an internet connection.
The gem that makes this type of video surveillance camera, particularly interesting (not everyone is able to do it of course) is that most of them are able to record only when some movement is detected and it is possible to set an alert notification that informs us in real-time of this suspicious movement in our house.
All this allows us to increase security by minimizing the inherent memory factor needed to save these footages. But what are the factors to keep in mind when buying a good digital surveillance camera, which can actually become a real home burglar alarm? Let’s find out together.
Main features
When choosing your surveillance cameras you will have to keep in mind a few but important concepts with which you will not only purchase the CCTV camera that best fits your needs but above all, you will spend the right price for what you are looking for:
Recording quality: The output video format can vary in resolution depending on the type of camera, ranging from 640 × 480 pixels to 1920 × 1080 pixels. This factor may seem obvious taking us to choose IP CAM with rather high resolutions in order to have the top shots, but the negative aspect is when we are going to see them, if our connection is slow enough we will find it difficult to see a stable way. Which is why, if we were in such a situation, it would be better to opt for a room with a lower resolution to reduce the traffic on our home line. The recording quality also includes the compression ratio offered by the recording format, which can be: H.264, MPEG4, MJPEG, and JPEG. This is also a factor not to be overlooked because the higher our relationship, the less heavy our records will be. Among those mentioned, the best compression ratio is undoubtedly the H.264.
Action range and sensors: Some of the best surveillance cameras allow you to rotate (remotely controlled) to increase your range. There are also fish-eye optics that maximize the field of view without having to rotate the camera. As for the sensors, instead, they can be equipped with Motion Detection technology, able to capture the movements in the range of action of the security cams and so start recording or send a notification to your smartphone. Another interesting sensor that tries to solve the problem of the infinite range of the cameras in question and is the one that allows them to “listen” to any noise and once they are detected, start recording.
Data storage: Last but not least, let’s analyze the aspect of data storage. This aspect is quite varied and varies from camera to camera. However, the most common storage method is NAS storage, a network device that provides space for storing any type of data. Then there are cameras that save the data on a proprietary cloud and finally, there are rooms with micro SD slots on the back that save the data directly on the spot. Once we have analyzed the main aspects that distinguish the various IP video surveillance camera present on today’s market, we can now move on to our recommendations for purchases, obviously taking into account one of the main factors for the purchase, the quality and price ratio.
Why buy a video surveillance camera?
A wireless surveillance cameras positioned on the front door, above your garage or connected to a rear entrance, is able to provide a glimpse of what really happens outside, even during the night, whether someone is trying to steal or animals passing by through the garbage cans. You could warn with a danger sign and the presence of the cameras security, to scare off the bad guys. Home security systems with cameras should help you identify someone, record any suspicious movements and be able to be checked at any time. If this is not enough, you can monitor your home security with 24 hour surveillance, 7 days a week, especially if you are on vacation, perhaps receiving notification alerts for any suspicious activity.
Many security camera systems are equipped with on-board speakers, this means that you can record an audio message with your smartphone and send it to the outdoor security cameras that will play it. If the verbal threat does not work, there are home surveillance systems that can provide an alarm that warns neighbors or certain numbers that they can intervene quickly. Of course, you can save footages for later viewing. Some surveillance cameras also integrate with other smart systems in the home to activate alarms, lights, thermostats, and other devices when movement is detected.
Best video surveillance camera
Now that we have seen a nice overview of what digital surveillance cameras are and who (and why) should buy them, we are ready to list what we consider to be the best in the industry for value for money.
Sricam SP018
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One of the most appreciated for its good quality and price ratio! Installation is very simple and there is support for an app for remote control. The head can move in all directions and thanks to the wide-angle 1080p HD lens you can keep an eye on the whole space.
Add to this the hands-free function to talk at a distance through the camera (with the app) and the support NVR and RTSP, as well as the WiFi 5Ghz. A 12-month guarantee is added to all!
YI Dome Camera
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YI Indoor Wireless WiFi Security IP Camera, Smart Nanny Pet Dog Cat Cam with Night Vision, 2-Way... | Buy on Amazon |
Yi is a brand that you’ve known, perhaps thanks to Xiaomi. This Yi Dome is equipped with good features and excellent quality in the filming.
This home security camera has a 112° wide-angle lens, capable of rotating for 345°, it is possible to make a 4x zoom of the shots, it is equipped with night vision and through two-way audio, it is possible to capture both the sounds and send them (remotely maybe). As for the sensors instead, we find that of movements and noises and is able to send reports via email in case of strange movements in the house.
In short, respectable features for a device that maintains a very good quality and price ratio. As far as archiving is concerned, we also find a MicroSD slot that can host a 32GB card and through the proprietary application, very user-friendly, it will be possible to manage up to 12 rooms simultaneously.
YI 1080p Home Security Camera
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YI Home Security Camera, 1080p 2.4G WiFi IP Indoor Surveillance Camera with Night Vision, Motion... | $24.99 $22.99 | Buy on Amazon |
Another YI product, more satisfaction. This video surveillance camera is capable of recording 1080p video at 15fps with a panoramic wide angle of view of 111°. Features 2.0mm lens (focal length) and zoom: up to 4X. Its price is also quite cheap. Other interesting features to note are the two-way audio with a built-in microphone and speaker, night vision mode up to 5 meters with 8 non-invasive discrete LEDs (for babies and children when they sleep) and 940nm infrared sensor.
You can control it via your smartphone thanks to the YI Home App (up to 12 cameras), download free from Google Play Store or Apple App Store. YI 1080p Home Camera allows recording on smartphones and PCs or on micro SD cards up to 32GB.
D-Link DCS-942L
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D-Link Record & Playback Wi-Fi Camera with Remote Viewing (DCS-942L) (Discontinued by Manufacturer) | $69.95 | Buy on Amazon |
This D-Link is one of the most sold on the market in terms of a surveillance camera. The quality of shooting is 640 × 480 pixels, it is equipped with infrared LEDs for night vision and a motion sensor that alerts us via SMS or e-mail when it is activated. As for storage, on the side, there is a slot for micro SD cards (maximum 32GB) and therefore does not require the use of NAS devices.
It does not have a POE connector and therefore the only way to interface with the network is via WIFI. And finally, as far as the application and portals sector is concerned, which can be accessed to view the videos and modify any settings, D-Link provides the mydlink system that allows you to easily control our cameras security from the outside.
SV3C Outdoor Security Cameras
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SV3C Full HD 1080P Dome POE IP Security Camera Indoor/Outdoor(Wired, not Wireless), Vandal-Proof,... | Buy on Amazon |
Very varied depending on what you are looking for, but these outdoor security cameras are one of the best choices in terms of both functionality and price point of view, in our opinion!
In addition to 1080p FullHD resolution with 35 fps (which should guarantee clear and smooth images) there is support for POE – Power Over Ethernet – which allows this CCTV camera to connect to the Internet and provides a live feed at the same only thanks to the Ethernet cable coming from your router.
TP-Link Kasa Cam Outdoor Camera
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Kasa Smart (KC200) Outdoor Camera by TP-Link, 1080p HD Smart Home Security Camera with Night Vision,... | $250.00 | Buy on Amazon |
The TP-Link Kasa Cam Outdoor camera is a video surveillance camera that should not be mounted at home but outside. It has a high resolution (1080p), 2-way audio to communicate with the delivery person at your front door or use the siren to scare away intruders.
The magnetic camera mount and mounting wall plate make for quick set-up and allows you to configure your camera for the best view, you can also get instant alerts straight to your smartphone whenever your outdoor camera detects any sound or motion.
Netgear Arlo Q
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Arlo (VMC3040-100NAS) Q – Wired, 1080p HD Security Camera | Night Vision, Indoor Only, 2-Way Audio... | $154.49 | Buy on Amazon |
This Arlo deserves one of the podium places given its simplicity of assembly and use. Netgear has done a good job both from the hardware point of view, in fact, this security camera allows recording in full HD and has a field of view of 130 °, and both from the software point of view of its app that allows to manage 4 IP Cams simultaneously configuring them in a simple and fast way.
As for the data storage, in this case, we have the possibility to use cloud storage having 1GB free of space.
Netgear Arlo Pro 2 / Arlo Ultra 4K Surveillance Camera System
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Arlo VMS4230P-100NAS Pro 2 - Wireless Home Security Camera System with Siren, Rechargeable, Night... | $459.99 $399.00 | Buy on Amazon |
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Arlo Ultra 4K Wire-Free HDR Security Cameras Surveillance / 4-Camera | $699.99 | Buy on Amazon |
As can be guessed from the name of the model we are faced with a higher-end security camera systems than the aforementioned Arlo Q. This is declared by the owner of the house as a room that does not fear darkness or water. Yes, the surveillance camera is weatherproof and is equipped with a system with RGB-IR technology that allows the full HD sensor (with 130° viewing angle) to capture images at night with uniform illumination.
Furthermore, Arlo Pro (as well as its previous version) is powered by battery so they do not need cables of any kind, which makes it extremely easy to mount even in less “reachable and more complex” areas of the house.
YI Home Camera 3
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YI Pro Home Security Camera, Indoor Camera with Person, Vehicle, Animal Detection, Phone App for... | $49.99 | Buy on Amazon |
Compared to its predecessors, it presents many new and interesting features, thanks to an Artificial Intelligence (AI) improved in the smallest details. Motion and noise sensors will only report unusual noises such as a baby’s crying or broken glass. You will also have included in the price 1 month of free storage in YI Cloud, to be able to keep your videos safe even if the room is damaged or stolen.
Through the application that allows remote control, you can turn on/off and program the operation of the web security camera to your liking, setting weekly days and time slots. The technical sector sees the 1080p FullHD sensor, wide-angle, night vision and bilateral audio. The integrated microphone and loudspeaker allow either to have a conversation at a distance (or to send commands to their animals) or to scare off any unwanted guests.
Foscam Outdoor PTZ
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FOSCAM Outdoor PTZ (4x Optical Zoom) HD 1080P WiFi Security Camera - Pan Tilt Wireless IP Camera... | Buy on Amazon |
These Foscam outdoor security cameras are equipped with 1080p HD video quality, H.264 compression and have motion detection to alert you to suspicious movements via email. Thanks to its IR-LED it is able to illuminate and reach distances that are around 196 feet and is compatible with PoE (energy and data through the same ethernet cable). Remotely you can reach it via the DDNS service (if configured by the user).
Best-selling video surveillance camera
At the end of our best video surveillance camera buying guide, we are leaving you here with the top 10 of the most sold security cameras at the moment. The ranking is updated automatically every day.
- Outdoor 4 is our fourth generation wire-free smart security camera that helps you protect your home inside and out right from your smartphone.
- See and speak from the Blink app — Experience 1080p HD live view, infrared night vision, and crisp two-way audio.
- Two-year battery life — Set up yourself in minutes and get up to two years of power with the included AA lithium batteries.
- Enhanced motion detection — Be alerted to motion faster from your smartphone with dual-zone, enhanced motion detection.
- Person detection — Get alerts when a person is detected with embedded computer vision (CV) as part of an optional Blink Subscription Plan (sold separately).
- 【Cloud Storage & Local Storage】The battery camera allows financial encryption,you’ll never miss out on a moment with remote playback video on the encrypted Cloud service wherever you are.When your device and memory card are lost, cloud storage safely protects your data from being lost, and you can view the recorded files at any time.
- 【Easy To Use 】Easily follow the 3 steps of WI-FI configuration and simple to use the camera for users, Please follow the instructions and you can make the camera start to work within 3 minutes,and camera no voice.
- 【During Day And Night 】 This wireless Indoor Mini camera provides a quality video and image（Camera has no sound). Regarding night vision,this home security camera offers clear visibility at all times, day or night.
- 【PIR Motion Detection Function】Smart Camera PIR sensors to easily and quickly detect people, cars, pets and packages, and the security camera system can wake up in short time and capture all human movements. Live streaming 24/7 with real-time motion.Recorded video without sound(Via Amazon no audio policy).
- 【High Video Quality & During Day And Night 】 This wireless Indoor Mini camera provides a quality video and image. Regarding night vision,this home security camera offers clear visibility at all times, day or night. The included app allows for easy access to recorded video from anywhere, anytime.
- 【Ultra 2K Resolution & Advanced Night Vision】Galayou wifi camera with 2K HD resolution provides you a clear and vivid image quality and captures more details on your home anywhere during day and night by using 6X digital Zoom. This indoor security camera has an enhanced night vision with effective distance up to 33 ft . This indoor camera for home security only supports 2.4GHz WiFi. ( 5GHz is not supported )
- 【24/7 Real-Time Motion Alert & Smart Siren】 The baby camera supports motion detection and push alert to monitor your baby/pet/elder. When your baby is climbing out of the cribs or your pet is scratching the sofa, Galayou baby camera monitor will send alert message on your phone to let you know.
- 【Remote Monitoring & Two-Way Audio】 Built-in microphone and speaker allows you to keep in touch with your baby, pet,family by remotely controlling the Wansview Cloud APP when you are out or busy. This WiFi camera for home surveillance also can scare away the unexpected intruder to keep your property safe with audio feature.
- 【Secure Local Storage & Cloud Storage 】 24/7 continuous recording feature is open to all Galayou customers without extra fees. Glayou indoor camera supports up to 128GB mciro SD card （not included) to store the vidoe clips on local storage. The Cloud storage also is a good option for the user who don't want to take the risk of losing card and card damaged. All recorded videos will be fully protected and encrypted with AWS Cloud.
- 【Works with Alexa& Google Home】 The security camera is compatible with Alexa and Google home. Just use the voice command to control these devices to show you the live-feed of camera. The smart integration between the Galayou camera and your device make your home system more intelligent and reliable.
- Monitor the inside of your home day and night with our 1080P HD indoor plug-in smart security camera with motion detection and two-way audio.
- See, hear, and speak to people and pets in your home from your smartphone with Blink Mini’s live view and two-way audio.
- Get alerts on your smartphone whenever motion is detected or customize motion detection zones so you can see what matters most.
- Use Mini as an indoor plug-in chime for Blink Video Doorbell. Hear a real-time alert from Mini when someone presses your Video Doorbell.
- Choose to save and share clips with a free 30-day trial of the Blink Subscription Plan or locally with the Sync Module 2 (sold separately).
- Livestream with Color Night Vision - Monitor your home day or night with 1080P HD video & color night vision..Power Adaptor Input : Input - 110-240V(AC/DC), Output - 5V/1A.
- Indoor/Outdoor - Wyze Cam OG is a wired security camera with an IP65 rating so you can confidently install it outside in the rain or inside in the kids’ room. Wyze Outdoor Power Adapter (sold separately) required for outdoor use.
- Deter Intruders - A 40lm built in spotlight and mini-siren ward off would-be package thiefs. Weather Resistance: Indoor and Outdoor (IP65). Outdoor power adapter sold separately.
- Motion/Sound Notifications - Wyze Cam OG alerts you instantly when motion or sound is detected. Motion Detection Zones and custom settings allow you to adjust the sensitivity of detection or turn it off completely
- Two Ways to Record Videos - Get secure cloud recording as well as person, package, pet, and vehicle detection with Cam Plus (subscription required) or insert a microSD card (sold separately) to record videos locally.
- Rechargeable Mini Spy Camera - With a Full HD design, this hidden camera is a small and handy tool for taking pictures anywhere. The compact camera can be carried anywhere, or you can place the mini security camera in your home, office, car, corner of your patio, indoors, outdoors, or even in your pocket or collar.
- HD 1080P Nany Cam--The small wireless camera adopts high-quality optical glass, multi-layer coating technology, can take instant photos, and the picture is stable and clear. Using a 1080P sensor, the nanny camera captures over 12 megapixels (4032x3024) and automatically saves.
- Night Vision Mini Hiddden Camera- The surveillance camera has 6 built-in IR LED lights to capture more details and present HD images over a wider range at night or in low light conditions. The lights are invisible to the human eye and never flicker, but they show clearly.
- Personalized Play Style - The camera mini camera has four fixed ports at the bottom to link the camera mount for use. It can be used indoors for office surveillance, in the home as a child safety camera and nanny cam to watch your pet,or outdoors for bike riding, surfing at sea and easily for drone recording. It is a mini camera with diverse usage.
- Warm Tips！-The hidden spy camera is not inclubed a SD card. And the package contains 1X Mini hidden camera, 1X Reset pin, 1X Hidden cam Bracket,1X Charge cable,1X Mini spy camera instruction.
- 【Smart Motion Detection and AI Recognition】The rechargeable wireless outdoor security camera utilizes AI smart sensors, which can recognize people, pets, vehicles and package drop-offs. The security cameras wireless outdoor use an infrared sensor, it will detect motion and send notifications to your mobile phone in real-time.
- 【100% Wireless and Long Life Battery】The cameras for home security with a built-in rechargeable battery, it can provide 1 to 6 months of worry free use before a recharge is required. The outdoor camera wireless needn't any wires, the installation is very simple and it's waterproof, which can be installed in anywhere.
- 【1080P HD Live Video and Color Night Vision】This security camera provides 1080P quality video and image. It will automatically adjust to the ambient light level and when necessary. At night, it will auto-switch to color night vision effected of up to 33ft visible range, provides a wide clear vision.
- 【Two-Way Audio, Instant Siren, Spotlight】This wireless security camera outdoor has a built-in microphone and speaker, you can make 2-way audio calls in real-time. The instant siren, flashing white light and 2-way talk can drive away thieves and unwanted visitors.
- 【Cloud/SD & Free 3-Day Cycle Cloud Storage】The home security camera supports SD card and cloud storage. It provides free rolling 3-day cycled cloud storage that you can enjoy storage service without any subscription. And it provides a 30-day free trial of advanced features that include AI recognition, upgraded cloud memory, custom alert areas and etc, the advanced features starts at $2.99 per month after 30 days free trial.
- [Powerful PIR Motion Detection & Advanced AI Analysis] Geekee wireless outdoor cameras utilize efficient PIR motion detection technology to keep an eye on any unauthorized activity around your home in real time. Powered by advanced AI technology, they can intelligently analyze captured footage and distinguish between people, pets, packages, and vehicles. Receive real-time alerts on your smartphone to ensure you are notified promptly and accurately while avoiding false alarms.
- [1080P High Resolution & Full Color Night Vision] Equipped with state-of-the-art color night vision technology and boasting 1080P high-definition resolution, home security cameras ensure crystal-clear visibility, even in low-light conditions. With this exceptional image quality, you can easily identify individuals or objects in the footage. Experience the sharpness and clarity of 1080P resolution, allowing you to see every detail with precision, day or night.
- [Boosted Security Features & 2-Way Talk] Powerful spotlights illuminate the entire area, deterring potential intruders and using the built-in two-way talk feature to deter potential intruders. With the Vicohome APP on your phone, you can send a verbal warning or have a conversation. Meanwhile, the alarm can be triggered automatically when motion is detected, alerting you and scaring away intruders.
- [Convenient Battery Powered & 100% WiFi Coverage] Battery power does not require complicated wiring or power outlets, giving you the flexibility to place your camera where you need it most. With WiFi connectivity, you can effortlessly connect the wifi cameras to your home network, enabling convenient remote access and real-time monitoring from your smartphone. Enjoy the freedom of a wire-free setup and stay connected to your home security system anytime, anywhere. (*Only supports 2.4Ghz WiFi)
- [Reliable Storage Options & Weatherproof Design] Store recorded footage locally on an SD card for quick access, or opt for secure cloud storage to ensure your data is backed up and accessible from anywhere. With an IP65 waterproof rating, outdoor security cameras are built to withstand various weather conditions, ensuring uninterrupted operation and protecting your home. *( Free 3-day permanent recurrent cloud storage or 0.5GB recurrent cloud storage without subscription)
- 【AI Motion Detection 2.0】Driving AI to the next level, human&vehicle detection, line crossing, or region entrance detections are more accurate than before. For quicker locating in crucial moments, human&vehicle smart searching in recordings offers you great help.
- 【H.265+ for Smoother & Longer Recording】Upgraded to H.265+, the recording time is lengthened, and the bandwidth is lessened. And an included 1TB hard drive saves you extra expense. (Support up to 10TB HDD, package comes with 1TB HDD.)
- 【24/7 Peace of Mind】Whenever real threats are detected, immediate pushes pop up on your phone, and you can check it out via 3G/4G/5G/Wi-Fi. However far away you are from home, this reliable security system secures your peace of mind day&night.
- 【IP66 & High-Quality ABS Housing】With IP66 weatherproof and the best ABS exterior housing, these wired cameras can stand from cold to hot, from -40°C/-40°F to 60°C/140°F. Every detail is designed for a longer lifespan.
- 【Trust-Worthy Security Solution Handles All】Passed UL, CE, FCC, HDMI, etc. severe testings, and ANNKE App conformed to GDPR, all data transferring & downloading are secured. Plus, NO monthly fees charges, but only a FREE professional support team awaits!
- 【Remote Live Viewing 】This wireless hidden camera, also known as a spy camera or nanny cam, is cleverly disguised as a USB charger camera. Once connected to the Wi-Fi network, users can remotely access live streaming video via an app, providing convenience and stealth for real-time surveillance from anywhere.
- 【High-Quality Video】Despite its tiny and unobtrusive size, this micro USB charger spy camera delivers high-resolution 1080P video. This mini hidden camera ensures that the captures are clear and detailed with a 140-degree wide-angle view, making it a small yet powerful tool for monitoring.
- 【Motion Detection Alerts & Push】This small and discreet hidden camera comes equipped with motion detection capabilities, promptly sending alerts to your device. It acts as an efficient wireless nanny cam, ensuring you're alerted to any activity in your home or office in real time.
- 【Versatile Video Modes for Every Need】The camera offers four different modes to suit various surveillance needs: continuous video, scheduled video, alarm video, and privacy mode. It's a versatile mini spy camera that provides flexibility and control over your preferences.
- 【Enhanced Local Storage and Reliable Connectivity】Supporting up to 256GB of local storage on a micro SD card (Not Included), this tiny USB charger camera ensures your data is safe and readily available. With its stable Wi-Fi connection and ability to record videos to the SD card even without Wi-Fi, this small camera promises consistent performance and reliability.
