Best Outdoor Security Camera That Connects To Phones
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Take your home security system to the next level with brand-new outdoor security cameras. These systems enable you to scan your property 24/7. You’ll no longer have to guess whether that weird sound in your yard was a raccoon, your kid past their curfew, or a trespassing intruder. Security cameras will show you everything you need.
Also, there are dozens of security camera brands on the market. Whether you’re looking for an outdoor security camera that connects to phone devices or a wireless security camera with reliable battery life, you’ll have no shortage of options. Take your time finding a security camera system that suits your property, budget, and lifestyle.
10 Best Outdoor Security Cameras That Connects To Phones And Gadgets In 2022
Are you shopping for a new smart home security camera? Although having several options feels liberating, first-timers might find it challenging to review the multiple outdoor camera brands available.
Fortunately, we can help. To aid your shopping, we made a comprehensive review of the best outdoor security cameras on the market. See how they fare against each other.
Best Overall: Defender 4k Ultra HD Wired Security Cameras
For a complete outdoor surveillance system, try the Defender 4k Ultra HD. It comes with eight outdoor cameras, covering up to 800 square feet if positioned diagonally.
Moreover, each system comes with a 1TB local storage system. You can record up to 20 days’ worth of 4k video recordings before having to rewrite old footage.
Pros
- Complete outdoor security system
- No monthly fees on local storage
- HD night vision recording
Cons
- Email-only customer support
- Requires some technical knowledge to set up
- CS team takes days to respond
Best Solar-Powered Camera: REOLINK Argus 2
If you want a wireless outdoor security camera that connects to phone devices but doesn’t rely so much on batteries, check out the Argus 2 by REOLINK. It comes with a solar-powered rechargeable battery pack.
Pros
- Affordable 1080p recording camera
- Accommodates both local and cloud storage
- Utilizes solar panels for longer battery life
Cons
- Local storage only supports up to 64GB
- Battery only last 14 hours for live viewing
- Requires strong WiFi signal to stay online
Best Square Foot Coverage: Foscam PoE Ultra HD 2K 4MP IP Camera
Despite the affordable price tag on the FOSCAM PoE, it offers one of the most robust zoom capabilities among its competitors. Also, its motion detectors run on AI. You wouldn’t have to worry about squirrels or dogs tripping the alarms.
Pros
- Wired Cameras don’t need the internet
- Super-strong zoom function
- AI-powered motion detection
Cons
- Requires an external microphone
- Requires strong ethernet connection to stay live
- Less-than-average customer support
Best Battery Life: EufyCam 2C
With the EufyCam 2C, you wouldn’t worry about battery replacements. Unlike other wireless cameras, this setup lasts 180 days of continuous recording before requiring a new battery pack.
Pros
- Lengthy battery life
- Crisp 2-way audio
- AI-powered motion detectors
Cons
- Limited field of view
- Extra $119.99 per add-on camera
- Platform only accessible through its app
Best Affordable Multi-Function Camera: SimpliSafe Wireless Outdoor Security Camera
The SimpliSafe Wireless Outdoor Security Camera is one of the most affordable multi-function cameras available. It offers a plethora of security features. For less than $200, you’ll already get motion and audio detection, six months’ worth of rechargeable batteries, and a wide field of vision.
Pros
- Takes 5 minutes to install
- Affordable price tag
- Excellent customer support
Cons
- It doesn’t integrate well with other SimpliSafe devices
- Buggy motion detector in a low-WiFi zone
- Delayed notifications in low-WiFi zone
Best Premium Option: Arlo Pro 4 Spotlight Camera
For homeowners who want the best security cameras that connect to phone devices, regardless of the price tag, try Arlo Pro 4 Spotlight. It comes with all the bells and whistles you’d expect from security cameras. A standard pack comes with three cameras equipped with color night vision, 2-way audio, 160-degree field of view lenses, and integrated spotlights.
Pros
- Powerful AI-powered motion detection
- Super-wide field of view
- Real-time, no-fail push notifications
Cons
- Paid cloud storage
- Steep price tag
- Expensive add-on packages
Best Alexa-Compatible Camera: Ring Stick Up Cam
The Ring Stick-Up cam comes with security cameras you can watch on your phone and integrate with Alexa. You can also set Alexa to announce all notifications.
Resolution: 1080p
Motion and Sound Detection: Motion and sound detection
Storage: Cloud storage
Integrations: Pairs with Android devices and Alexa
Connectivity: Wireless
Pros
- Pairs well with Alexa
- Customizable notifications
- Seamless app dashboard
Cons
- Not resistant to harsh weather conditions
- Delay with notifications in low-WiFi zones
- It needs additional ceiling mount
Best Affordable Option: Wyze Cam v3
When it comes to reliable but cheap security cameras that connect to your phone, the Wyze Cam v3 ranks among the most popular options. Despite the low price tag, it still comes with an array of features, such as Google Assistant compatibility, audio detection, color night vision, and IFTTT capabilities.
Pros
- One of the most affordable security cameras
- Seamlessly works with 2.4GHz WiFi network with a WPA/WPA2 protocol
- Several upgrades from V2
Cons
- No customer service
- Requires additional paid packages
- Ring Doorbell Pro motion sensors aren’t reliable
Best for Google Assistant: Google Nest Cam Outdoor
If you have an Android ecosystem that relies on Google Assistant, try this version of Nest Cam. It works seamlessly with Google Assistant. You will never worry about notification delays and lags since it has a real-time, AI-powered notification system.
Pros
- Pairs well with Google Assistant
- Super-easy to install
- Comes with Google Seal for Online Marketplace
Cons
- Limited field of view
- Requires paid updates and packages to function
- Expensive add-on subscriptions
Best for Scaring Intruders: Arlo Essential Spotlight Camera
Scare off intruders even when you’re not home with the Arlo Essential Spotlight. With the click of a button, you can set the camera to produce a blinding spotlight and blaring alarm—thus warning neighbors and scaring intruders.
Pros
- Integrates seamlessly with other Arlo devices
- Alarm and spotlight work without fail
- Resistant against harsh weather conditions
Cons
- Poor customer support
- Several hidden fees
- Battery life shortens if alarms are used frequently
What are the Pros And Cons Of Having An Outdoor Security Camera That Connects To Phones?
Are you on the fence about getting cameras you can watch from your phone? If so, weigh the pros and cons of having these smart home devices installed in your outdoor living space.
Pros
- Excellent source of crime evidence and footage
- They let you monitor your property 24/7
- Many outdoor camera brands offer free cloud storage
- Wireless security cameras have a long battery life
- Modern security cameras produce HD video quality
Cons
- They show intrusion but don’t stop it
- Intruders can quickly destroy security cameras
- Most wire-free cameras cost several grand
- Outdoor and indoor cameras compromise privacy
- Paid cloud storage fees are very pricey
Apart from the cost of your security cameras themselves, you’ll also have to consider their storage system. Local and cloud storage solutions come at different rates. In most cases, cloud-based systems cost more than devices using a local storage option.
Installation
Setting up wireless security cameras is relatively easy. Most wireless camera brands come with straightforward installation instructions, which any homeowner with handyman experience can follow.
Integrations
Integrating your outdoor wireless network for remote viewing and 24/7 connectivity requires some technical experience. Also, you might need help positioning each camera. Strategically position your cameras so that you can maximize coverage.
Connectivity
Choose between wired and wireless cameras. We typically suggest wireless cameras since they’re less intrusive and easier to set up than their wired counterparts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Check out some of the questions homeowners typically ask when shopping for their first outdoor home security cameras:
Can I have a security camera without WIFI?
Cameras with a built-in local storage system store footage themselves, so they’ll function fine without internet connectivity.
What’s the difference between surveillance cameras and security cameras?
CCTV or security cameras relay video recording signals to fixed locations, such as security rooms filled with monitors. Meanwhile, surveillance cameras rely on IP networks. They relay video signals based on assigned networks, which you can designate to your tablet or smartphone.
Which security camera has no monthly fee?
The Defender 4k Ultra HD Wired Security Camera system offers a spacious 1TB local storage solution at no added monthly expense. It supports up to 20 days’ worth of 4k recordings.
All the options mentioned on this list have their pros and cons. However, the Defender 4k Ultra HD Wired Security Camera system stands as the best home security option for most homeowners. It provides the most value for money. You’d be hard-pressed to find eight ultra-HD 4k recording security cameras with 1TB local storage for less than $500.
Do you feel like motion detection cameras aren’t enough for home security protection? Security Forward can help! Check out our resources explaining the various home security systems to keep your property safe and free of intruders 24/7.