5 Top Wireless Security Cameras
- Nest Cam IQ Indoor – Best Smart Home Security Camera
- Blue by ADT Indoor Camera – Best Smart Home Indoor Security Camera
- SimpliCam Indoor Camera – Best Camera with Extended Warranty
- Lorex Smart Outdoor Wi-Fi Home Security Camera – Best Wireless Outdoor Camera
- Ring Stick Up Cam – Best Multipurpose Security Camera
What is a Wireless Security Camera?
A wireless security camera allows you to access video and audio over a wireless network, like your home Wi-Fi, and typically only requires a power cord for use. Wireless security cameras aren’t completely “wireless” like their wire-free counterparts. Wire-free security cameras rely on battery or solar power, and they can still transmit video and audio over Wi-Fi. If you purchase a wireless security camera, you’ll need to have access to a power outlet for use unless the camera can run on battery power for a period of time.
Compare Wireless Security Cameras
| Rating | 5 stars | 4.5 stars | 4 stars | 4.5 stars | 4.5 stars | 4.5 stars | 4.5 stars | 4.5 stars | 4.5 stars | 4.5 stars | 4 stars | 4.5 stars | 4.5 stars | 4.5 stars | 4.5 stars |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Resolution | 1080pHD + 4K sensor | 1080p HD | 720p HD | 1080p HD | 1080p HD | 1080p HD | 1080p HD | 1080p HD | 2K HDR | 1080p HD | 720p HD | 1080p HD | 1080p HD | 1080p HD | 1080p HD |
| Power source | AC power adapter | Battery and/or power adapter | AC power adapter | Battery and/or solar power | Battery | AC power adapter | AC power adapter | AC power adapter | Batteries and/or power adapter | Not specified | Not specified | AC power adapter | AC power adapter | AC power adapter | AC power adapter |
| Two-way audio | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Wide-angle lens | 130 degrees | 130 degrees | 120 degrees | 130 degrees | 140 degrees | 115 degrees | 155 degrees | 110 degrees | 160 degrees | 150 degrees | Not specified | 100 degrees | 147 degrees | 360 degrees | 130 degrees |
| Night vision | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Continuous recording | With Nest Aware subscription | Not specified | No | No | No | No | With Vivint Playback | With MicroSD card | Yes | Yes | No | No | No | No | No |
| Notifications | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Cloud storage | Yes | No | With $4.99/mo. subscription or monitoring plan | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | 3-month trial then subscription required | Yes | Yes | 14 days free then subscription required | Yes | 14 days free then subscription required | With a Kasa subscription |
| Smart home compatibility | Alexa, Google Assistant | Alexa | Alexa, Google Assistant | Alexa, Google Assistant | Alexa, Google Assistant | Alexa, Google Assistant | Alexa, Google Assistant | Alexa, Google Assistant | Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Watch | Alexa | None | Alexa | Alexa, Google Assistant | Alexa, Google Assistant | Alexa, Google Assistant |
| Deterrence features | None | None | None | Siren and LED light strips | Siren and spotlight | None | None | None | Siren and spotlight | None | None | None | Siren | None | None |
| Guarantees | None | 30-day guarantee | 60 days | None | None | 30-day returns | None | None | None | None | 6 months | None | None | None | None |
| Warranties | 2-year limited | 12 months | 3 years | 1 year | 1 year | 2 years | 120 days or length of your service with Premium Plans | 1 year | Generally 1 year (varies by product) | Not provided | Not provided | Not provided | 1-year limited | 1-year limited | 2-year limited |
| BBB rating | A- | A | A+ | NR | NR | A+ | C- | A | A | N/A | A | N/A | F | B- | B |
Wireless Security Camera Factors to Consider
- Camera storage – How you’ll store your camera footage will vary. Some security cameras recommend local storage such as a microSD card or USB drive. With local storage, you’ll be responsible for moving all video clips from local storage to your computer to save, share or playback later. More popular security cameras offer cloud storage to encrypt and store your recorded video in a safe digital space away from hackers. If you’re leaning towards cloud storage you’ll want to keep in mind that cloud storage comes at an additional cost based on storage space.
Some security camera providers will only save clips for a certain number of days before overriding historical videos with new footage. If you’d like to keep certain videos, you can save them on the camera’s app or web portal, your mobile device, or local storage. - Security system compatibility – Many security cameras are sold separately from home security systems, but require the system to detect motion, send alerts and record footage. If you’re considering fully-monitored home security start by evaluating compatible wireless security cameras for your system. Remember that storage, CVR and other camera features may come at an additional cost.
You may also find that you need multiple security cameras to help monitor your home. Double check how many cameras can be connected at once, especially if you’re syncing them to a home security system connected to other security equipment. - Power source – Many wireless security cameras are battery-operated and connect to Wi-Fi using a mobile app to easily install anywhere. Wireless security cameras often include a rechargeable battery pack to cut the costs of batteries over time. However, some wireless cameras are designed to plug into a standard wall outlet for power. If your security camera needs to be plugged in, consider a backup power source, such as a rechargeable battery, in case of a power outage.
Wireless Security Camera Reviews
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
- Access to artificial intelligence features like facial recognition with subscription
Our take
The Blue by ADT Indoor Camera features a 130-degree field of vision and is capable of storing up to 24 hours of clips you can play back. If the camera senses motion, smoke, or dangerous levels of carbon monoxide in your home, you’ll be alerted.
Stand-out features include
- Indoor Camera
- Works with Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT, and Z-Wave
- Detects fire and carbon monoxide
- Uses Facial Recognition technology to spot familiar guests
- Plugs into a standard wall outlet and includes battery backup
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, night vision, and 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
Our take
The Ring Stick-Up Cam is equipped with two-way audio, night vision and adjustable motion detection to reduce false alarms. The wireless version of the Ring Stick Up Cam, which costs $99.99, is battery-powered and includes one rechargeable battery pack. It has a 115-degree field of view and 1080p HD video quality. This indoor wireless security camera connects to Ring home security equipment and the Ring app for easy remote control.
Stand-out features include
- 115-degree field of view
- 1080p HD video quality
- Works with Amazon Alexa
- Connects to additional smart home and security equipment
- Equipped with two-way audio to speak with guests
Our take
This Ring Spotlight Cam functions by battery-operated power, giving you access to a wireless setup. Have access to clear 1080p HD video, built-in LED lights, and a siren for deterrence. You can also see, hear, and speak with visitors.
Stand-out features include
- 1080p HD video quality
- Features LED lights and siren for deterrence
- Works with Alexa and Google Assistant for voice control
- Best Indoor Camera with Person Detection
6. Lorex 1080p HD Smart Indoor Wi-Fi Security Camera
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
7. Vivint Ping Camera
Our take
Vivint is a monitored home security provider that is well-known for its innovative connected devices, and its indoor camera is no exception. The Ping Camera has top-of-the-line specs like a wide viewing angle and two-way audio, in addition to professional installation as part of a fully monitored home security system. Vivint also offers conveniences like month-to-month contracts and financing.
Stand-out features include
- 155-degree field of view
- 1080p HD video quality and two-way audio
- Connects to additional home security equipment
8. Wyze 1080p HD Indoor Camera
Our take
This Wyze indoor camera is a #1 Amazon Best Seller and packs a lot of essential features for monitoring your home. The Wyze 1080p HD Indoor Camera features night vision, activity alerts, cloud and local storage, plus more. You can also issue voice commands with a compatible Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant device.
Stand-out features include
- Live stream video in 1080p HD
- Access to cloud and local storage
- Works with Alexa and Google Assistant
Our take
The Arlo Pro 3 can help you guard your home with deterrence features like a siren and spotlight, designed to make lurkers think twice. This camera has sharp 2K resolution and a 160-degree field of view. Watch recordings, set up custom motion zones, and more with Arlo’s mobile app.
Stand-out features include
- Indoor/Outdoor Camera
- Works with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit
- Comes with deterrence features like a siren and spotlight
- Sharp 2K video recording
- Wide 160-degree field of view
10. Conico 1080p Wireless Security Camera
Our take
This Conico wireless security camera features clear 1080p HD video and infrared night vision. You can also see, hear, and talk to visitors with two-way audio. Anytime that motion or loud sounds are detected in your home, you’ll get notifications to keep you updated.
Stand-out features include
- Clear 1080p HD video
- Two-way audio
- Activity and sound notifications
Our take
ADT’s indoor camera comes equipped with motion detection, two-way audio, and 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
12. NetVue Wireless Outdoor Camera
Our take
Keep an eye on your home’s exterior with this NetVue wireless outdoor camera. This camera records in 1080p HD and provides up to 60 feet of night vision. You can also store your recordings in the cloud or locally with a Micro SD Card. With a waterproof design, you won’t have to worry about damage as this camera is made to last through rain and snow.
Stand-out features include
- Smart motion detection and notifications
- Access to both cloud and local storage
- Waterproof design for the outdoors
13. Canary All-In-One
Our take
True to its name, the Canary All-In-One is a 1080p HD security camera with a 90-decibel alarm that also monitors your home’s temperature, air quality and humidity. If you’re hoping for one self-monitored device that packs in as many smart features as possible, check out this affordably priced option with optional professional installation.
Stand-out features include
- 147-degree field of view
- 1080p HD video quality with two-way audio
- Includes a 90-decibel alarm
14. Wyze Cam Pan
Our take
Wyze is a newcomer to the self-monitored security market but its small suite of cameras, sensors and smart light bulbs are quickly earning a reputation for their extreme affordability and high-end specifications. The Wyze Cam Pan is a standout because it’s mounted on a 360-degree swivel, which you can operate remotely to pan and zoom in on specific areas.
Stand-out features include
- 1080p HD video quality
- 120-degree field of view with two-way audio
- Motion detection & night vision
- Pan & zoom features
- Works with Amazon Alexa
15. Kasa Spot
Our take
The Kasa Spot shows a view of your home at all times using your smartphone and the Kasa Smart app. With this camera, you’ll be able to create up to four customizable activity zones to receive alerts on special areas of your home such as the front door. This wireless security camera is equipped with night vision, two-way audio and a 130-degree field of view. If your camera detects any motion or sound, you’ll instantly receive an alert to view and record live footage for playback later.
Stand-out features include
- 130-degree field of view
- 1080p HD video quality
- Works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant
- Equipped with two-way audio to speak with guests
Showing 5 of 15 products
Showing 15 of 15 products
Security cameras are a great start to protecting your home. Explore our top providers to learn about the benefits of a whole home security system.
How Do We Rank Wireless Home Security Cameras?
At Safety.com, we continually refine our lists in order to provide up-to-date, well-researched insights. When ranking wireless home security cameras, we consider consumer ratings, resolution, storage capabilities, smart home compatibility, and additional security camera features.
Wireless Security Cameras Cost Breakdown
Wireless security cameras are typically purchased as standalone products. They can also be combined with a full home security system package.
- Cost: Typically, you’ll pay for the security camera upfront, and if you want access to additional features such as cloud storage, continuous recording, and artificial intelligence (A.I.) features, then you’ll need to purchase a subscription with the company.
- Cloud storage: Some companies provide a free trial period for their cloud storage service or limit storage of your recorded videos up to a certain time period, such as 7 days or 30 days. Many companies charge around $5/mo. for cloud storage per security camera, and offer a discount on cloud storage with additional cameras.
- Installation: You’ll generally be responsible for setting up your camera unless you’ve purchased a full home security system with professional installation. Ease of installation will vary depending on the camera.
- Monitoring: if you purchase a wireless security camera as a standalone product, you’re generally responsible for monitoring. Some providers like SimpliSafe offer video verification whenever your alarm is triggered so that authorities can view a video clip to help identify an intruder, but many providers don’t have a feature like this.
Benefits of Wireless Security Cameras
- Easy installation – You’ll be able to set up your security camera in minutes using Wi-Fi or Bluetooth and the mobile app using your smartphone. No wires means it’s easy to reposition or move altogether.
- Anytime access – When your wireless security camera is connected to Wi-Fi and controlled using the mobile app you’ll be able to see live and historical footage at all times from the cloud. Wired security systems often require a Native Video Recorder (NVR) to store and review videos.
- Home insurance discount – Some insurance companies offer discounts for homeowners that install home security system or equipment. Check with your insurance provider for requirements they may have regarding types of equipment that qualifies and if professional installation is mandatory.
- Connectivity – Today’s wire-free security cameras connect to your home automation and security system to create automated routines such as turning on lights, disarming the alarm system or automated video recording. You’ll be able to schedule routines and control equipment using your smartphone at all times for a safe smart home.
Wireless Security Camera FAQs
How is my home security footage protected?
Your home’s security footage and data can be protected using encryption to protect the footage from easily being stolen by hackers. Other security camera providers offer a protected network to protect your home’s security footage. Before buying a security camera ask the provider how your data and footage will be protected. Also, ask if any data, information or footage will be used. These answers can also be found in ‘Terms & Conditions’ or the ‘Privacy Policy.’
Do I need Wi-Fi for wireless security cameras?
A wireless security camera’s functionality depends on a strong wireless connection to capture and record footage. Most wireless security cameras require either Wi-Fi or Bluetooth to record footage, detect motion and send instant alerts remotely. Keep in mind that adding your camera to your Wi-Fi with other equipment can result in a weaker connection.
Is a wireless security camera better than a wired security camera?
Many wireless security cameras are easier to install without the hassle of wires, however, they rely on a wireless signal that may be easily interfered with other wireless devices. On the other hand, security cameras that require wired installation have a stronger signal between the camera and router. While there are many pros and cons for each, your choice depends on your security needs. For instance, if you’re renting a home, you’ll want to consider a wireless security camera that doesn’t interfere with your home’s wiring.
