This content originally appeared on Mashable for a US audience and has been adapted for the UK audience.
We all want our homes to be safe and secure. That’s part of what makes it a home, after all. In the 21st Century, being safe and secure home means upgrading your home the latest and best smart tech around. In other words, a smart security camera.
Security cameras work as an effective deterrent against break-ins and unwanted visitors, but they’re also great for monitoring your home at all times. It’s little wonder that smart security cameras are very popular, as evidenced by the always advancing smart tech and range of available models.
But how do you know which home security camera is the best for you and your family? Selecting any technology for your home is hard. It’s easy to get blindsided by specifications, complicated by the fact that everyone’s home and daily routine is different. But don’t fret: We’re here to help secure your home. Here’s some helpful information and a roundup of the best security cameras currently available.
What is a smart security camera?
A smart security camera connects to an app or to your WiFi. They tend to stream live video directly to your smart device (such as a phone or tablet) and will generally have features that can be controlled remotely or via a voice assistant, They may even be powered by AI technology, with features such as automatic motion detection. You don’t have to choose a smart security camera, of course, though all of the cameras on this roundup have smart tech capabilities. It’s pretty much the standard now.
What’s the difference between indoor and outdoor security cameras?
Outdoor cameras must be robust enough to withstand changes in temperature and a variety of weather conditions. And when it comes to indoor cameras, most people prefer devices that easily blend into their home/decor. You don’t want anyone to be aware that they’re being recorded. After all, intruders are notoriously camera shy!
Are wireless security cameras reliable?
It’s important to consider what kind of “juice” a camera needs to operate. Does it rely on batteries or does it require a power source? You might face constraints as to where you can place a camera that needs a power source. Conversely, batteries obviously have a limited life. We can say with some degree of confidence that a dead camera isn’t incredibly useful. It’s not a case of which is best, but which type better suits you.
Do security cameras have audio?
Some cameras do indeed offer audio surveillance as well as imagery. Some options will simply have a microphone that allows them to capture sound. Others can both capture and emit sound, turning them into a sort-of intercom with two-way audio.
Do security cameras require WiFi?
Like the vast majority of technology today, many security cameras available have WiFi capability. This is great for a handful of reasons including the fact that it’s harder to disable them. Moreover, most cameras with WiFi allow you to turn your house into a smart home. They can integrate with Amazon and Google and allow you to remotely lock your door and control your lights, as well as sending you texts/alerts.
Though some cameras come with microSD cards, most models rely on cloud services for storage and offer you remote access. Keep in mind that not all storage is alike. Some might save footage for a month, others only a week. Additionally, you may have to pay a subscription fee for the cloud service.
What is the best security camera?
It’s all about which security camera suits you and your home. Your lifestyle or comings and goings may require a particular set of features. What you need are options. That’s why we’ve done the research for you and pulled together some of the top picks.
These are the best security cameras in 2025.
