Best Home Security Cameras of 2025: My Top Picks
CNET has been testing a large number of home security cameras over the years, helping you find the right camera that suits your needs.
There are hundreds of home security cameras on the market, with price, features and quality dramatically ranges. With all the options, it’s hard not to be overwhelmed quickly, especially if you’re thinking about things as important as home safety. After years of CNET home security camera testing, if you are looking for something new, there are a few tips. Some parameters to consider are:
privacy
This is a big thing. You don’t want to peek into your property or hack it to your camera. Wireless Home Security Camera There can be more Potentially affected by hacking This is because of connection and remote access to Wi-Fi networks, especially when router security is insufficient. Wired home security cameras that do not use Wi-Fi at all are generally safe. (Please read more Pros and cons of wired and wireless systems here. ) As mentioned above, it is important to consider the company’s recent reputation, as data breaches and security vulnerabilities can also be dangerous to your privacy.
Indoor and outdoor
One of the first things you need to consider is where you want to place your home security camera. If you want to place your camera outside and record your porch or garden, you probably need it Outdoor camera It also features weather resistant or night vision.
Many cameras can be used interchangeably for indoor or outdoor purposes, but some cameras are simply made Indoor useso make sure you’re buying a camera that can handle outdoor elements.
Video resolution
Video quality should be a major consideration when purchasing a home security camera. Simply put, a camera is not effective if the only video recorded is rough and cannot be read.
The higher the resolution, the better the quality of the video. Most home security cameras on the market today have a resolution of 1,080p, while others have 2K resolution (such as the Arlo Pro 4) or 1,536×1,536 pixel resolution (such as the Arlo Video Doorbell). and An increasing number accepts 4K. Remember, the higher the quality of the video, the more bandwidth it increases and the more likely the camera will experience delay times and glitches.
Field of view
Field of view (usually provided at an angle) refers to how wide the view of the camera is. It’s generally better because it captures more space and makes it easier to find activities. The average security camera tends to be above about 130 degrees, but it’s beyond that. The pan and tilt functions allow the camera to move around, reducing the importance of the field of vision.
If you want to investigate multiple corners in your backyard, a wider perspective is great. It’s not that important if you want to look at the packages and guests right in front of the door.
Battery or wired power supply
Battery, wireless camera and wired options are a matter of taste. Both types have their advantages and disadvantages.
Wireless options are usually easy to install and operate, and often use cloud storage, allowing you to access your footage from anywhere. Wireless security cameras have their own power sources, so you can record and store footage even when the internet is in a power outage. One of the biggest drawbacks is that you will need to manually change the battery and charge it frequently. Solar-powered home security camera.
Wired cameras are fixed to a stable connection, so there is no need to charge them, and often allow for higher quality video resolution. While they don’t require monthly cloud storage fees, the quality of their videos tends to be more reliable, secure and consistent. However, not all owners feel comfortable wiring with the camera without the help of a professional, and it is not a great option for renters. People living in apartments.
Some wired home security cameras (such as the Google Nest Cam indoors) usually have improved video and audio quality.
Local and Cloud Storage
Not all video storage is equal. There are two main options, and choosing one suits your personal preferences. There are cloud storage that sends video footage to a remote server that stores it, and local storage that relies on separate accessories or hardware, usually a MicroSD card, to hold the footage you want to store. Cloud storage typically requires a monthly fee.
Wi-Fi quality and range
When installing Wireless Home Security Cameraplease keep that in mind Smart Home The cameras you buy (and your entire security system) are as good as your quality Wi-Fi connection Where to install. So check you out Wi-Fi speed Before drilling holes in the wall, ruining door frames, brickwork, or ruining home security camera siding. If your wireless security camera has uneven connections, you will notice significant delay times, pixelated live feeds, and other Wi-Fi delays. These are poor video quality and can be painful for home security cameras to use.
With a good Wi-Fi connection, you need to be in good shape to use you Indoor home security camera or Outdoor home security camera There are no major camera system issues and you get clear footage every time. Do you still have questions? Look at me Home Security Camera Buying Guide The following FAQs: