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Smart home security cameras let you check in to your home, kids, pets, or anything else from anywhere in the world, as long as you have an internet or data connection on your phone.
At the very least, the best security cameras offer reliable alerts and a minimum of false alarms. They should also give you plenty of time to review any events, in case you're not looking at your phone when something triggers an alert. Many smart home security cameras store up to 24 hours of footage in the cloud, and offer longer cloud storage with a subscription.
Over the last few years, the "smarts" in smart home security cameras have also improved dramatically. They can differentiate between people, pets, and general motion and send you the relevant alerts, which you can customize so you don't get alerts you don't want.
Many cameras can fit in well with other smart-home devices, so you'll want to think about whether you want your device to work with HomeKit or the Google Home ecosystem, for example.
Unfortunately, a lot of home security cameras have had privacy issues. Cameras with two-factor authentication can alleviate some concerns, but consider placement and the ability to schedule times when the cameras are off, as well.
Editor's Note: We've recently learned of major security flaws found within some of Wyze's smart cameras that have existed since early 2019, and so we're reconsidering our recommendations for Wyze products for future updates.
Here are our top picks for the best home security cameras
Best overall: Arlo Pro 3 - See at Amazon
The Arlo Pro 3 produced the highest quality video footage of any camera we tested, and the smart alert system is excellent.
Best subscription-free: EufyCam 2C - See at Amazon
Boasting good quality video, the EufyCam 2C can be used without a subscription indoors or out.
Best budget indoor: Wyze Cam V2 - See at Amazon
A cute design, 1080p video support, local storage, and all the basic features you could want at an unbeatably low price makes the Wyze Cam V2 our top budget pick.
Best for smart homes: Google Nest IQ - See at Walmart
For advanced features like facial recognition, there's no better camera than the Google Nest IQ, which comes in outdoor or indoor versions.
Best outdoor: Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight Camera - See at Amazon
Boasting all the same features as our top pick, the Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight Camera adds powerful lighting, which illuminates everything and works as a deterrent for unwelcome visitors.