Installing a security camera in your home is one of the most effective ways that you can secure your belongings and your family. If a break in occurs, a camera can alert you to a breach and it can also provide proof to police which will make it easier for
them to find the perpetrator. Wireless cameras are convenient because you get the security you need without having a messy or confusing setup requiring wires and drilling that could ruin your walls. While you can buy models that still plug into the wall for a power source, there are also models that have no wires to worry about at all, but will require you to change batteries. Our Security Nerd found the 10 best wireless security cameras and broke down the pros and cons of each of them so
that you can find the right camera for your home. Our Top 10 Security CamerasBest Overall: The Arlo UltraThis Arlo camera stands at the top of the list of our Security Nerd’s favorite wireless security cameras thanks to its crystal clear picture and powerful security extras like a siren, motion-activated spotlight and color night vision. We also like the auto-track function where the camera moves automatically to follow motion. You won’t be disappointed if you’re looking for smart home integration, and 30-day cloud recording is included along with a 1-year subscription to Arlo’s Premier home security plan for an all-around value. Features
Nerd ProsSmart home integration You can use Alexa and some other third party options with Arlo to make your smart home a reality. Although there aren’t as many automation options as some other DIY security companies. Advanced motion detection options Security plan included in purchase for 1 year Nerd ConsPrice The price tag can certainly deter some users. There are other DIY companies who offer similar protection for a lot less money.
Arlo VMS5140-100NAS Ultra - 4K UHD Wire-Free Security 1 Camera System
Best Video Quality: The Google Nest Cam IQIf video quality is what’s most important to you in a security camera, the Google Nest Cam could be your best bet. You’ll enjoy a crisp picture along with a useful feature Google calls “Supersight”. The camera automatically zooms and tracks people in its sight to identify them as safe. The invisible infrared LEDs mean you’ll also get a clear view of your home at night. The icing on the cake of this camera is Google Assistant is already built-in for your smart home integration. By purchasing Nest Aware, you’ll be able to use its facial recognition technology that will send you alerts if someone you don’t recognize enters your space. Features
Nerd ProsCrisp video HD video is essential for any security camera, and Google Nest Cam IQ delivers. 2-way communication with noise cancellation Google Assistant included Nerd ConsPrice The price tag can deter some buyers. Best For Techies: The Logitech Circle 2The Logitech Circle 2 is perfect for the tech-savvy consumer who wants a fully integrated smart home with multiple options for customization. This model is compatible with Alexa, HomeKit, and Google. Techies can take security even further with advanced analytics, allowing you to highlight motion zones to be alerted when you need to be. Logitech also has advanced motion filtering, so you don’t have to worry about being notified for something you’re not interested in. It also provides you with a 30-second time lapse of what happened in your house over the course of the day so you can avoid filtering through hours of footage. Features
Nerd ProsSmart home integration You’ll get some solid smart home integration options as Logitech Circle 2 is compatible with Alexa, HomeKit, and Google. Nerd ConsReported lagging in app There’s nothing more frustrating than your picture lagging while you’re trying to see what’s happening at home in real time. Users have reported this to be an issue within the app before. Premium features require subscription Sale
Logitech Circle 2 Indoor/Outdoor Weatherproof Wireless Home Security Camera (Person Detection, 24-Hr Free Time-Lapse), Works with Alexa and Google Assistant
Best Value Pick: The Wyze Cam PanIf you want a great wireless security camera that gets the job done without shelling out hundreds of dollars, the Wyze Cam Pan is a solid option. At a price point under $40, you still get some impressive features like auto track, which follows activity happening throughout your room, along with the option to pan and tilt via smartphone app. You can still get features like 2-way communication and AI technology that can tell you when a person enters the area. This camera also has night vision up to 30 feet, which is even better than some of its more expensive counterparts. Add in 14 days of cloud storage, and you get some real value out of this inexpensive camera. Features
Nerd ProsSmart home integration Google Home is compatible with this system, so you can incorporate smart home integration. Nerd Cons
Power cord only You must plug this in using a power cord, which could limit where you place this camera based on outlet placement. Must purchase base station with camera Sale
Wyze Cam Pan 1080p Pan/Tilt/Zoom Wi-Fi Indoor Smart Home Camera with Night Vision, 2-Way Audio, Works with Alexa & the Google Assistant, White - WYZECP1
Best Smart Home Integration: The Canary All-In-One IndoorThere’s a lot you can do with this security camera, and we like that it comes in one smart package. You can see what’s going on in your home at all times with the sharp 1080p picture, but smart home integration is perhaps its strongest selling point. The Canary All-In-One can monitor air quality, temperature, and humidity, making it a great pick for overall security. A built-in alarm can scare off the bad guys, and it also offers you the option of contacting emergency responders from inside the smart app. It also gets some bonus points for simple setup right out of the box. Features
Nerd ProsPrice You’ll get a lot of features packed into a small price tag with this option. One-touch emergency access Nerd ConsOnly 24 hours of free cloud storage with basic plan This camera only provides a day of free storage, which is on the skimpy side when compared with similar options. Unimpressive night vision Sale
Canary Pro Indoor Home Security Camera with Climate Monitor | 90 dB Siren, 1080p HD, Two-Way Talk, Motion Alert, Works with Alexa, Google Assistant, Baby Monitor, WiFi IP
Best Intelligence: The Amazon Cloud CamWhen it comes to intelligence, this could be one of the best wireless security cameras on the market. While it notifies you about motion detection, it also takes it a step further because it can actually tell the difference between glass breaking, dog barking, a baby crying or even your smoke alarm going off. You’ll know exactly what’s going on without the extra guesswork. It also has night vision and 2-way communication if you need to get in touch with anyone inside. And of course as an Amazon product, you can bet it has smart home integration. It works with Alexa as well as Amazon Key, although some of the more impressive features you’ll have to pay for via a Cloud Cam subscription. Features
Nerd ProsSmart home integration with Alexa, Fire TV You’ll be able to make automation more simple with Alexa integration, and be able to stream what’s happening live on your television with Fire TV. Motion detection intelligence Nerd ConsSome features need Cloud Cam plan If you want to take advantage of person or audio detection, along with customized zones, you’ll have to pay extra for a subscription plan. Night vision could be sharper
Amazon Cloud Cam Security Camera, Works with Alexa
Best Battery Life: The Blink XT2 CameraIf you like the idea of your security camera not being tethered to a wall for its power, a battery powered option is ideal, but you also don’t want to have to change the battery out all the time. The Blink XT2 lasts for 2 years on AA lithium batteries, which is pretty impressive. Along with the marathon battery life, you will also get great features like a temperature sensor, night vision and options for customizable motion detection. We also like the fact that this camera can be used indoors or outside so you can move it around if you need to. Additional home automation options and free cloud storage are other positives for this camera. Features
Nerd ProsSuperb battery life Most 100% wireless cameras can last about 6 months on one battery charge. This camera can last as long as 2 years. Nerd ConsReported lagging in app Some users say lagging in the app can be a drag. Best Cloud Storage: The YI Smart DomeIf cloud storage is important to you, the YI Smart Dome camera has a great perk. You’ll get a week’s worth of video cloud storage for free. If you need more, you can pay, but this is a generous amount up front for consumers. Aside from that, the YI Smart Dome Camera X also has AI technology that can tell the difference between a human and an object, and even sounds like a baby crying or dog barking. The camera’s autocruise mode scans the room however you program it, with a 340-degree rotation and 95-degree tilt capabilities. And if you need help figuring out how to use any of these features, you get a lifetime of technical support with your purchase. Features
Nerd ProsCloud storage You’ll get a week of cloud video storage without having to pay a subscription, which is a good deal. Nerd ConsNo smart home integration If automation options are important to you, this isn’t your best camera option. Night vision could be better Best Monitored Camera: The Vivint PingIf you need a high-quality security camera but aren’t comfortable monitoring it yourself, the Ping camera from Vivint offers the best of both worlds. You can get all the perks of a wireless security camera like live streaming and 2-way communication, with the added peace of mind of professional monitoring. Paired with your Vivint Smart Home app, this can also become a pretty powerful camera when it comes to smart home integration. The camera can start recording if motion is detected, and even notify the monitoring sensor if an intruder is spotted. Features
Nerd ProsNight vision Users are impressed with the caliber of night vision that Vivint provides. Nerd ConsMust purchase monitoring You will not get to monitor this system yourself, so it will incur extra costs aside from the camera. Professional installation required Best Versatility: The Reolink Argus 2If you like versatility, this is one of the best wireless security cameras on the market. You can set this camera up indoors or outdoors thanks to its durability, but you can also choose to let it run on battery power or solar power. There’s no need for a base station, so you can set this up anywhere you’d like. You can easily view what’s happening at your home from the app on your smartphone. And if any motion is detected, you can choose to get a push notification and even customize a voice alert and siren to deter the bad guys in your yard. And if you’ve got a big family, up to 10 people can view the live stream simultaneously. Features
Nerd ProsImpressive night vision Night vision is crisp and clear with this camera. Multiple charging options Nerd ConsUsers report siren isn’t loud If you’re interested in a camera with a siren, you may not like this one because it isn’t very loud. Minimal smart home options 10 things to consider when choosing a wireless home security camera
Can a wireless security camera be hacked?Unfortunately even the best wireless security cameras are susceptible to hackers. But luckily, there are some simple things you can do to make sure your cameras stay secure.
The bottom lineWhether you’re looking for a more expensive camera with all the bells and whistles, or a no-nonsense model that gets the job done on a budget, there is an option for every home that will up your security game and keep your home safe from thieves. This article has been reviewed and approved by Officer Banta.Officer Banta is the official SecurityNerd home security and safety expert. A member of the Biloxi Police Department for over 24 years, Officer Banta reviews all articles before lending his stamp of approval. Click here for more information on Officer Banta and the rest of our team. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Participation in these programs helps us keep the site up, and to continue to help you find great products. Our editorial process is in no way impacted by partnerships. About the AuthorErin MaloneyErin is a freelance video producer and writer based out of Florida. She works with major retail companies and digital startups as a brand storyteller. When Erin's not writing, you can catch her scuba diving and spending time with her dog (not at the same time). How long do wireless security cameras battery last?Batteries for wireless security cameras can last anywhere from one to three years at best. They are very easily replaced – easier than replacing a watch battery.
How long does outdoor camera battery last?The average battery life of the cameras is 2 months on average, depending on usage. If the night vision or LED lights are on, and the amount of time you spend viewing the camera feed and recordings may deplete that battery life.
What is the most reliable wireless security camera?Arlo Essential Wireless Security Camera VMC2030-100NAS. Free video storage: None. ... . Arlo Pro 2 Smart Camera VMC4030P. Free video storage: 7 days. ... . Arlo Pro 3 VMC4040P. Free video storage: None. ... . Blue by ADT Indoor Camera. ... . Eufy Solo IndoorCam C24. ... . Eufy SoloCam S40. ... . Google Nest Cam Indoor NC1102ES. ... . Lorex 2K Pan-Tilt WiFi W462AQC-E.. Which outdoor wireless security camera is best?The Arlo Pro 4 Spotlight Camera delivers the best image and most specialized alerts of any cordless camera we tested. Like the Ring camera, the Arlo Pro 4 requires a subscription—Arlo Secure—to record clips and distinguish between people, pets, packages, and vehicles.
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