Today’s indoor cameras have to do more than just “take video.” The best are filled with smart features that can enhance the video experience and protect your home in other ways. 1080p HD, a mobile app and a wide-angle view are now nearly requirements while smoke detection, facial recognition and two-way talk are a must to be considered one of today’s top cameras. Check out our picks for the best indoor home security cameras.
Compare the best indoor cameras
Price | $99.99 | $199 | $299 | $169 | $199.99 | $150 | $49.99 | $99.99 | $199.99 | N/A |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Service contract required | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
Two-way talk | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Power source | Plug-in | Plug-in | Plug-in | Plug-in | Battery-powered | Plug-in | Plug-in | Battery-powered | Plug-in | Plug-in |
Field of view | 120-degrees | 130-degrees | 130-degrees | 147-degrees | 160-degrees | 127-degrees | 115-degrees | 110-degrees | 155-degrees | 128.6 degrees |
Night vision | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Low-light | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
HD video | 720p | 1080p | 1080p | 1080p | 2K HDR | 1080p | 1080p | 1080p | 1080p | 720p |
Installation | DIY with professional option | DIY | DIY with professional option | DIY | DIY | DIY | DIY | DIY | Professional | Professional |
Professional monitoring | Optional | Optional | Optional | Optional | N/A | Optional | N/A | N/A | Required | Required |
Warranty | 3 years | 30 days | 2 years | 1 year | 1 year | 1 year | 2 years | 2 years | 3 months | Based on contract length |
Indoor security camera reviews
Our take
ADT’s indoor camera comes equipped with motion detection, two-way audio, and infrared night vision. Whenever motion is sensed in your home, the camera will record a video clip and send it to your phone. With the ADT mobile app, you can check your video history, view a live feed, and more.
Stand-out features include
- Indoor camera
- Works with Alexa and Google Assistant
- 90-degree field of view
- 720p HD video quality
- View real-time and historical footage via mobile device
- Connects to additional smart home and security equipment
- Best Indoor Camera with Person Detection
Our take
This Lorex indoor camera features 1080p HD video, person detection, two-way audio, and more. At night, you’ll be able see clearly for up to 33 ft with infrared night vision. Issue voice commands with a compatible Google Assistant or Alexa device.
Stand-out features include
- 1080p HD video
- Two-way audio
- Compatible with Google Assistant and Alexa
Our take
The Nest Cam IQ Indoor features a 130-degree field of view, infrared night vision, person alerts, and HD two-way audio. You can also get Familiar Face Alerts with a Nest Aware subscription and use Google Assistant for hands-free control.
Stand-out features include
- Indoor Camera
- Works with Alexa and Google Assistant
- 1080p HD video with a 4k sensor
- Encrypted cloud storage
- Access to artificial intelligence features like facial recognition with subscription
Nest Indoor Camera video review
Our take
The Blue by ADT Indoor Camera offers good indoor surveillance for renters and frequent movers. It’s built with all of the popular surveillance features, including two-way audio, custom motion zones, and a battery backup if there’s a power outage. Best of all, the camera can detect and alert you to the sound of fire and carbon monoxide detectors. The camera also sends alerts if it recognizes a familiar face, such as your kids or nanny. The Blue by ADT Indoor Camera requires DIY installation, but cloud storage and professional monitoring are optional.
Stand-out features include
- Recognizes smoke and carbon monoxide detector sounds
- Facial recognition included to alert you of familiar faces
- Optional cloud storage and professional monitoring
Blue by ADT video review
Our take
The Abode Cam gives you a live view of your home using the abode app. You can also use the app to record live footage if your abode security system’s alarm is triggered. This camera also lets you set rules using the app for your camera to automatically record footage when you need it most. This camera comes with the basics including 1080p HD video and two-way audio. It’s easy to install and plugs into a standard wall outlet.
Stand-out features include
- Record live footage using the abode app
- Set rules to record footage automatically
- Two-way audio
Our take
The Blink XT2 Camera provides a 110-degree field of view and is designed to work well in outdoor environments. You’ll receive notifications when activity is detected, and you’ll also get free cloud storage for your footage.
Stand-out features include
- Works with Alexa and IFTTT
- Made with two-way audio to clearly speak to guests
- Includes night vision for crystal clear camera footage in the dark
- IP65-certified weatherproof outdoor security camera
Our take
The Arlo Pro 3 is our top security camera pick. It doubles as an indoor and outdoor camera to help keep your home safe. You’ll need to self-install the camera, but it’s easy to install multiple without interrupting your home’s electrical wiring. The Arlo Pro 3 is equipped with color night vision and 2K resolution for crystal clear footage. It works with popular smart home devices, including Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant and more. One notable feature is the camera’s built-in spotlight that can be controlled using your smartphone or automatically when motion is detected.
Stand-out features include
- Built-in spotlight that can be motion-activated or controlled using your smartphone
- Works with Amazon Alexa, Apple Homekit and Google Assistant
- 2K video resolution for crystal clear viewing and videos
Our take
The SimpliCam indoor security camera is Wi-Fi enabled and protects your footage with end-to-end encryption. This SimpliSafe camera also includes a privacy shutter that can be opened and closed as desired. It’s equipped with two-way audio and night vision, and it can detect motion.
Stand-out features include
- Indoor camera
- Works with Alexa and Google Assistant
- 720p HD video
- Smart motion detection to reduce false alarms
- 120-degree field of vision
SimpliCam by SimpliSafe Video Review
Our take
Vivint’s indoor camera is equipped with a 155-degree field of view, 1080p HD video quality, night vision and two-way audio. When motion is detected, you’ll automatically be alerted to watch live footage from your mobile device. Vivint’s indoor camera connects to your fully monitored Vivint home security system to help protect your home and can be professionally installed by Vivint’s Smart Home Pros.
Stand-out features include
- 155-degree field of view
- 1080p HD video quality
- Equipped with two-way audio to speak with guests
- Connects to additional home security equipment
Vivint Indoor Video Review
Our take
A unique camera, the Canary Pro is capable of detecting motion as well as monitoring your home’s temperature and air quality. It features AI-powered person detection so you can receive smart alerts. The Canary Pro is also compatible for use with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.
Stand-out features include
- Works with Alexa and Google Assistant
- 147-degree field of view
- 1080p HD video quality with two-way audio
- Includes a 90-decibel alarm
Indoor security camera clip storage
You’ll likely have two options to store your security camera footage – local or cloud storage. Here’s the difference.
Local – You’ll need to install an SD card in your camera in order to record activity. Once the card is full you’ll need to upload the footage to your computer or another device to continue recording footage. On the other hand, some cameras will automatically record over old footage.
Cloud – You’ll be able to access your footage using the camera’s mobile app or online portal from anywhere. Most companies charge at least $5/mo. for cloud storage. Your monthly cost will depend on your provider, amount of storage you need and other features included in the plan such as continuous video recording (CVR) or professional monitoring. Keep in mind, the monthly cost may be more if you have multiple cameras.
Most people trust cloud storage because of extra data and privacy measures taken to protect your footage and prevent it from falling into the wrong hands.
Best places to set-up an indoor security camera
It’s important to know where you should and shouldn’t place indoor cameras for your family and guests to feel most comfortable. If you own an indoor camera, be mindful of the laws in your state – some require you to inform guests that you own a camera and it’s recording. In the meantime, here’s where we recommend placing your cameras throughout your home.
- Near entryways including the front door, back door and first floor near a window facing inside your home.
- Garage
- Basement
- Nurseries and bedrooms (Be mindful of placement and privacy)
- Near areas where your valuables are hidden
Factors to consider before buying an indoor camera
Before you start narrowing down your favorite camera, there are a few points to think about:
- Power source — Some cameras are battery-powered while others plug into the wall. If the power goes out, you’ll want to make sure your camera’s still working. Make sure your camera has a backup battery or rechargeable batteries to keep your camera running.
- Home security — Your favorite camera may only work with certain home security equipment, such as ADT or Vivint. Most of their cameras are add-ons and require a contract with their home security. The camera cannot be a standalone product.
- Field of view — Your field of view is how much of your home your camera will show. The wider the field of view, the better view of your home. If you want a good view of your home look for a camera with at least a 110-degree view outdoors. And if it’s not enough, it might be best to add a few extra cameras.
- Night vision — Most cameras are equipped with night vision to give you a good look around your home in darkness. The best cameras have color night vision for a better view, but most offer infrared. Keep in mind that some cameras are low-light cameras and may not work as well in complete darkness.
Shop outdoor cameras
Looking for better security equipment outside of your home? Get started with an outdoor security camera.
Explore additional security camera resources
Looking for more information before you decide on a camera? We’ve got you covered. Check out a few of our top picks to help you learn more before you pick the perfect camera for your home.