Summary
Are you trying to find a home security camera for less than $100, or even less than $30? The finest inexpensive security cameras from reputable manufacturers like Blink, Arlo, TP-Link, and others are the ones we’ve tested out of dozens.
What is the best cheap home security camera?
We’ve decided on the best inexpensive security cameras to keep your house secure for less after analyzing a number of the best affordable models and doing more than 100 hours of testing in our smart home and warehouse lab: The finest inexpensive home security camera is the Tapo C210 Pan/Tilt camera from TP-Link, which offers the most crucial functions at an affordable price. For less than $30, you can watch the whole home from one central place, get motion alerts, and have two-way voice communication.
We’ve also gathered several affordable options that are suitable for outside monitoring, most of which are around $50 without compromising on features or quality. Let us know if you’re searching for a security camera without pan or tilt movement. While remaining light on the pocketbook, these inexpensive DIY cameras include some of the newest features from security firms like Amazon’s Blink, Lorex, Arlo, Reolink, and more. We took care to include the specifications you requested, such as support for Google Assistant and Alexa, HD and greater resolutions, and if subscriptions are needed.
Best cheap home security cameras of 2024
Check out our selections for the top indoor and outdoor home security cameras overall if you’re thinking about extending your budget or exploring alternative possibilities. Check out our comprehensive list of ideas for making the most of a camera whether you’re looking for an inexpensive camera for your room or if you’re building a home security system on a tight budget.
Cheapest home security camera overall
Pan/Tilt TP-Link Tapo C210
Multifunctional security cameras are what we prefer. This TP-Link indoor HD Tapo camera has crucial features including two-way audio (with a siren), motion detection with person tracking, and night vision, all of which can be controlled via an app. Its pan/tilt design allows it to observe any area of a room. For more detail, the resolution is also better than usual at 2K. Modern security cameras are nice to have all those features, but the price caught us off surprise. TP-Link is offering this camera for $30, and with regular sales, you can get it for much less.
However, Tapo C210 is not yet finished. It has two options for video storage: a microSD card slot for local storage or the $3.50/month Tapo Care plan with cloud storage. Although a microSD card isn’t included, if you want to avoid paying fees to save video, you can find extremely reasonable solutions (and storage capacities are strongly recommended). Keep in mind that the camera is compatible with both Google Home and Alexa if you already have a smart home setup.
At this price, however, you do forfeit a few items. It’s unfortunate that there isn’t a zoom option for a pan/tilt cam, and because it’s wired, you’ll need to locate it close to an outlet. However, they are little complaints in light of this indoor cam’s abundance of functions and amazing value.
Best cheap home security camera for outdoors
Blink Outdoor 4
For a few years now, we’ve thought that Blink’s exterior cameras are a good, affordable outdoor alternative. Because of its longevity and need for batteries, outdoor cameras may be costly; however, the Blink series keeps costs down. With a strong battery rated for up to two years, the most recent model—the Outdoor 4 cam—is the best yet. A two-year battery life is almost unheard of for outdoor security cameras and is an excellent option for those who don’t want to worry about constantly recharging. However, battery life is mostly dictated by how often motion detection is activated.
Expected features like night vision and two-way audio are included in the HD Blink Outdoor 4, along with Alexa compatibility (Amazon does not support Google Home or Assistant). Although cloud video storage is only available with a subscription plan that also includes person identification, this camera comes with a Sync Module 2 that lets you attach a USB drive for free local storage.
Best cheap home security camera for local storage
Lorex 2K Indoor Cam
Lorex has established a name for itself as a dependable local storage camera, even if it may not be as well-known as companies like TP-Link, Ring, or Arlo. These cameras are ideal for those who would rather not use the internet at all or who would rather avoid cloud video storage because of privacy concerns. For local video storage, they provide a microSD card, which requires some extra work to maintain as the card fills up with automatically taken footage. However, there is no need for a membership or extra costs.
A few other crucial security camera features that Lorex keeps up to date with include two-way audio, night vision, and free object recognition for both humans and animals. For this price, the 2K resolution is quite good and perfect for getting more detail. Connoisseurs of smart platforms should take notice that the camera is compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant. Furthermore, you may “bend” the camera to change its angle and get the desired viewpoint when positioning it on a shelf or table, even if it lacks panning capabilities.
Best cheap home security camera for night vision
Amcrest Outdoor Camera ASH22-W
Superior night vision is necessary if you have to keep an eye on a wider yard, driveway, or other area of your property. Basic night vision is enough for monitoring an interior room. With its infrared LEDs, the Amcrest HD cam maintains its affordability while providing approximately 100 feet of night vision. Additionally, it has antennae so that, while keeping watch outside, it can more readily pick up your Wi-Fi network.
You won’t have to worry about this camera in almost any weather condition or temperature thanks to its IP67 certification. Although it only offers one-way listening and lacks two-way audio, it does provide motion detection with alerts and a few video storage choices, including cloud storage and a microSD card slot (card not supplied).
Although this camera is suitable for outdoor use, you will still need to set up a cable connection during installation. It is sometimes necessary for extra electrical work to be done by a professional, so keep that in mind when making plans.
Best cheap home security camera with spotlight
Arl Essential Wireless Security Camera (2nd-gen)
An outdoor security camera’s cost will often increase when a spotlight is added, frequently by more than $100 or even $200. However, for about $50, you can get the Arlo Essential HD cam, which shines a tiny yet powerful floodlight in your porch or yard’s shadowy areas. This battery-operated camera has two-way audio, color night vision, and motion alerts. It is portable and can be placed anywhere, inside or outdoors.
When compared to Blink’s outdoor camera, the battery life is shorter—four months—but this is still acceptable in our opinion as long as the camera is easily accessible so that it can be periodically charged. A 12x digital zoom and an integrated siren are two more intriguing additions that are concealed in the camera. However, you’ll have to pay $8 a month for an Arlo subscription if you want video storage.
Best cheap home security camera with a built-in alarm
TP-Link Tapo C310
Strong deterrents against intruders, such as a highly concentrated siren, are included with the $50 (frequently available on sale) TP-Link Tapo 2K HD Outdoor Security Camera. In order to deter any intruders, the camera emits two lights and a sound alert when it is armed and activated. Though not very bright, the lights will undoubtedly draw attention from any intruders. In terms of sound, it’s imposing and powerful, but not loud enough to bother the neighbors next door, if at all.
You may purchase a microSD card for local storage or use a Tapo subscription plan, just as with other Tapo cameras. In any case, you will be able to converse via two-way audio and get motion alerts. This camera, like the one we chose for Amcrest, has a great night vision range, so it can be used in a variety of driveways and yards.
Naturally, you can set the alarm to sound at certain times, in activity zones, or in response to a line crossing. Two-way audio, local storage of 128GB (SD card not included), and color night vision up to about 100 feet distant are additional capabilities. A Tapo Care membership, which starts at around $3 per month, gives access to cloud storage.
Best cheap home security camera with solar charging
Reolink Argus Eco + Solar Panel
When a battery-operated security camera has a solar panel installed, it eliminates a significant portion of the maintenance required and allows for a variety of positioning possibilities while continuously charging the battery in sunny situations. One issue is that security cameras with solar panels are often more costly. Reolink defies the norm with a package that, while more expensive than other solutions on our list, is nevertheless very reasonably priced for solar energy.
This camera has a 10x magnification, 2K resolution, obstacle identification for persons and cars, and night vision powered by six infrared LEDs in addition to the solar panel. The camera is compatible with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, and it has a microSD card slot for video storage (card not supplied). Furthermore, even if the field of vision seems a little low, it is horizontal when most are diagonal, so the angle appears a little better than it really is.
Cheap home security cameras compared
| Best cheap home security cams | TP-Link Tapo C210 | Blink Outdoor 4 | Lorex 2K Indoor Cam | Amcrest Outdoor Camera ASH22-W | Arlo Essential Wireless Security Camera (2nd-gen) | TP -Link Tapo C310 | Reolink Argus Eco + Solar Panel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $25 | $65 | $50 | $40 | $50 | $30 | $85 |
| Resolution | 1080p/HD | 1080p/HD | 2K | 1080p/HD | 1080p/HD | 2K | 2K |
| Night vision | Infrared night vision | Infrared night vision | 32-foot night vision | 98-foot night vision | Color night vision | 98-foot night vision | 32-foot night vision |
| Power | Wired | Battery | Wired | Wired | Battery | Wired | Battery with solar panel |
| Audio | Two-way audio | Two-way audio | Two-way audio | One-way audio | Two-way audio | Two-way audio | Two-way audio |
| Video storage | Cloud storage with subscription, local storage with microSD | With subscription or with included local storage hub | Included 16Gb card | Subscription or local storage via microSD card (not included) | Subscription only | Subscription or local storage via microSD (not included) | Subscription or local storage via microSD (not included) |
| Motion detection | Yes with audio and person detection | Yes, with person detection (plan required) | Yes with person detection | Yes, with detection zones and person recognition | Yes | Yes with person recognition | Yes with vehicle and person recognition |
| Voice assistant | Amazon Alexa, Google Home/Assistant | Amazon Alexa | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant | N/A | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant |
| Review score | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 7.6/10 (earlier model) | N/A | N/A |
Factors to consider when choosing a cheap home security camera
The cost, features, and quality of the hundreds of home security cameras available today vary greatly. It might be difficult to avoid being overwhelmed quickly with all the choices, particularly when you’re thinking about something as significant as the safety of your house. We’ve tested home security cameras for years at CNET, so if you’re looking for a new, low-cost camera that still lives up to your standards, we have some advice. Here’s something to think about:
Confidentiality
Naturally, this is a significant one. You don’t want someone breaking into your camera or spying on your land. Because wireless home security cameras are connected to Wi-Fi networks, they may be more vulnerable to hackers. Though it’s not a major worry—especially if you have a strong Wi-Fi password—it’s wise to be aware of the possibility.
The handling and storage of video on the cloud presents a more significant privacy risk. It takes a lot of work to stay on top of data breaches and security flaws, which is why we’re handling that part for you. We monitor organizations that have had security issues and made improvements, such as Ring, as well as those that have modified their policy about sharing footage with law enforcement, such as Ring once more. Additionally, we monitor businesses who are finding it difficult to demonstrate any progress in their security, such as Wyze’s continuous issues.
Inside versus outside
The location of your home security cameras should be one of your initial considerations. You’ll probably want an outside camera that is also weather resistant or has night vision if you want it to be outdoors and film your yard or porch.
While many cameras can be used both inside and outdoors, others, like the Lorex 2K indoor cam, are just intended for interior use. Be sure the cameras you choose can withstand the elements outside by looking for an IP classification that indicates weather resistance.
Cloud vs local storage
Video storage is not created equal. Which of the two primary alternatives you have will depend on your own preferences. There are two types of video storage available: cloud storage, which stores your video footage on a distant server, and local storage, which uses a separate device, often a microSD card, to save any material you choose to keep. Cloud storage often has a monthly cost.
Viewpoint and resolution
The term “field of view” describes the maximum angle in degrees that a camera lens can record. Rarely, the highest-quality cameras can capture images of 160 degrees or more. When positioned properly, a cheap camera typically has an angle of between 110 and 130 degrees, which is sufficient for most security needs. Alternatively, you may choose a pan/tilt camera, which can adjust to record from any angle that is in view.
Similarly, 1080p is usually the resolution for inexpensive cameras such as these. A number of our top recommendations are reasonably priced cameras that provide 2K resolution, which may be a significant feature increase.
Compatibility with smart homes
Which smart home systems are compatible with security cameras? You’ll want a camera that is compatible with these voice assistants, and the majority will function with them, if you currently like using Google Home, Google Assistant, or Alexa’s platform. Compatibility with Siri and Apple Home is even more difficult to discover. whether you have a whole-home system from a company like Frontpoint, Abode, or Vivint, you should find out whether a particular security camera is compatible with your system.
The best approach to ensure interoperability with security cameras will be to use the Matter standard, but cameras haven’t yet implemented that protocol.
Battery vs. wired: You can install battery-based cameras anyplace you like, and they’re incredibly do-it-yourself and apartment-friendly. But, you will need to recharge them around every few months, or you can use a solar panel to assist (the app will alert you when the batteries are low).
There is never a need to worry about battery replacement with wired cameras, despite their limitations and often more difficult installation. Additionally, you may pick a PoE (power over Ethernet) camera and eliminate the need for Wi-Fi.
How we test cheap home security cameras
An essential component of our assessments of any home security system is hands-on testing. We focus especially on resolution, latency and night vision, additional features, overall performance, and overall value when it comes to home security cameras. Over the course of a week, we assess each feature in a household setting to get an understanding of how the camera and companion app react to noises and activities in the real world both during the day and at night.
To find out more about our testing procedures, read our comprehensive article on how we evaluate video doorbells and home security cameras.
What’s the cheapest home security camera?
Many inexpensive security cameras are available online for less than $50, but some of our best offers, like Tapo’s pan/tilt cam, are just around $30. You can get a fully functional camera like this for $25 or less if you locate the appropriate bargain. But always pay attention to the nuances, such as whether the camera requires an additional SD card, a separate hub, or a subscription plan in order to function effectively. Fear not: The term “cheap” on our list doesn’t imply that the cameras are of worse quality or are more prone to malfunction; rather, it just indicates that you can get these low-cost cameras for very low costs in relation to their features.
Which security cameras have no monthly fee?
Almost all home security cameras may be used without requiring a monthly subscription. You should be able to use the camera for free after buying it and installing the app. Some of the capabilities include live video streaming, push alerts, night vision, and maybe two-way audio. Extra benefits like increased cloud storage, face recognition, emergency calling, and more may be unlocked by spending a little bit more, often between $2 and $6 for a single camera.
What is the easiest home security camera to install?
In general, inside cameras such as the GE CYNC Cam, Wyze Cam v3 and Cam Pan 2, Arlo Essential inside Cam, Blink Mini, and others are the simplest to install if your goal is to simply mount a security camera on a shelf or counter. Simply position the camera where you want it and connect it.
Conversely, the majority of cameras come with a removable base and mounting gear (a few screws and sometimes some drywall anchors) if you wish to install them to the wall or the ceiling. This speeds up and simplifies the installation process somewhat, but remember that most cameras are wired, so when placing your camera, you could have an unattractive power line running down the wall. A wireless camera like the Blink Outdoor Security Camera is a good option if you’d like not to bother with the power cable.
Where should I install a security camera?
Choose the ideal site for your home security camera installation by plugging it in and moving it about before installing it, particularly if you want to attach it with hardware. This will allow you to have an unhindered, complete view of the area you want to watch. For a complete view of the room, it is usually best to position the camera in a corner; however, a camera with 360-degree pan capabilities can perform better in a more central area.
In order to detect and record activities, outside cameras should be placed within a range that allows for both motion detection and night vision. Avoid positioning the camera too far away.
Can I return a home security camera?
Occasionally, however it will vary based on where you purchase them. Security cameras are covered by most return plans in the same manner as other devices. If you are very want to know before you purchase, look up the product’s return policy.
