Nowadays, it is getting more and more important to invest in smart home solutions as there are new and innovative options available that can take care of your needs and save a lot of time and effort for you. Apart from basic management gadgets such as HVAC controllers, you can also find smart security solutions such as video doorbells, security cameras, smart door locks, and much more that can increase your house’s safety standards significantly. Outdoor security cameras are one such device that you can install outside your home, such as at your entrance gate, balcony, or backyard, to monitor and record the activities around your home. Here are some properties of an outdoor camera that you must check before you make a choice.
- Field of View: The field of view of an outdoor security camera is the area that the camera can capture. It is measured in degrees and varies based on the size and type of the camera lens. The field of view is important to check because it determines how much coverage and detail you can get from your camera. In most cases, a wide-angle security camera is a better alternative as it can monitor a large landscape, such as your yard or driveway.
- Night Vision: The night vision features of an outdoor security camera are important to check because they affect the quality and clarity of the video footage captured in low-light conditions, especially at night. A good night vision camera can help you identify potential intruders and monitor your property carefully. Generally, there are 2 types of night vision modes available with outdoor cameras that are IR night vision and colored night vision. Out of these 2, IR night vision cameras offer much better coverage in comparison.
- Video Quality: The overall video quality available with a camera depends on a few different factors such as type of lens, coverage area, and the resolution of the lens. Just like a digital display, the resolution affects the quality of the captured digital footage and higher resolution will allow you to gain more information with a higher footage clarity. Also, consider checking out the bitrate at which the footage is captured. The higher the bitrate, the more details and colors the image can have.
There are a lot of brands these days that produce and deliver outdoor security cameras that you can install in your home or office. While the specifications and features might appear similar for almost all outdoor cameras, we can assure you that you will notice a lot of difference in the end result. To help you pick the correct choice, we have gathered the best and most reliable options available on the market that can guarantee the security of your premises. We will also include a “Buying Guide” for the best outdoor security camera so that you can understand the core qualities of the device and pick the right option according to your needs.
Best Outdoor Security Cameras Table
| Best Outdoor Security Cameras | Field of View | IP Rating | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blink Outdoor Security Cameras | 143° | IP65 | Check On Amazon |
| GMK Outdoor Security Cameras | 110° | IP65 | Check On Amazon |
| VISION WELL Outdoor Security Cameras | 110° | IP65 | Check On Amazon |
| TOAIOHO Outdoor Security Cameras | 360° | IP66 | Check On Amazon |
| Google Nest Outdoor Security Cameras | 130° | IP66 | Check On Amazon |
| VIRTAVO Outdoor Security Cameras | 106° | - | Check On Amazon |
| WYZE Outdoor Security Cameras | 120° | IP65 | Check On Amazon |
Best Outdoor Security Cameras Reviews
1. Blink Outdoor Security Cameras
Blink is also a highly renowned alternative option which has already replaced traditional video doorbells and cameras for a lot of households. The following camera from Blink ensures that you don’t need an additional smart doorbell with its extended feature set.
The All-New Blink Outdoor 4 is the latest addition to Blink’s lineup of smart security accessories that can help you monitor and secure your home, indoors as well as outdoors. This camera has a 1080p HD live view and IR night vision for extended coverage area in low-light conditions. It also has a high–quality speaker and mic to support clear and understandable two-way communication. The camera has up to 2 years of battery life, certainly saving a lot on the running cost of the unit. Blink cameras offer enhanced motion detection and person detection, which can alert you faster and more accurately of any activity in your property.
The camera supports both cloud and local storage, meaning you can choose whether you wish to locally store your data, or save it on a cloud server for remote access. You can also enjoy a free 30-day trial of the Blink Subscription Plan, including a lot more features and benefits. The set includes a Sync Module 2, and all mounting accessories needed at the time of installation.
Best Features
- The camera has FHD 1080p resolution
- It has up to 2 years of battery life
- The field of view extended up to 143 degrees
- Suitable for indoor as well as outdoor installation
Pros
- Can be paired with existing Blink camera setup
- Battery life is highly beneficial in the long run
- Relatively smarter access options
Cons
- Best features are accessible only with the subscription plan
2. GMK Outdoor Security Cameras
There are a lot of premium alternatives available right now for an outdoor security camera. But, GMK is one of the affordable brand choices which can be the right option for the long term.
If you are looking for a wireless outdoor security camera that can provide you with clear and colorful video along with smart and accurate alerts check out our 2nd choice for this list which is the GMK Security Camera. This camera features a 1080p HD live video and full color night vision, which can capture every detail in any lighting condition. It also has a built-in rechargeable battery which can last for months on a single charge. And with the solar panel option, you can extend the battery life indefinitely. Since it is completely wireless, you can install this camera anywhere you want, without worrying about wires or outlets.
The camera also has a smart PIR motion detection and instant alerts which can notify you of any activity in your property in real-time. Plus, you can use the two-way talk alarm system to communicate with your visitors or scare away potential intruders. The camera supports both SD card and cloud storage, which can store your video securely and conveniently. You can also opt-in for a free 3-day video history cloud storage and a 30-day free trial of advanced features, such as AI recognition and custom alarm areas.
Best Features
- The camera has FHD 1080p resolution
- It comes with IP65 weather resistance
- The field of view extended up to 110 degrees
- Spotlight siren for alerting surrounding residents
Pros
- Most popular option for an affordable outdoor camera
- Solar charging option is great to have for long term reliability
- Smart and accurate motion detection
Cons
- Subscription plans might not be suitable for most buyers
3. VISION WELL Outdoor Security Cameras
Vision Well is yet another brand that is trusted by thousands of buyers for their home security cameras. This brand developed the camera units as well as all the supported accessories such as solar charging panels and mounting accessories.
In the 3rd position, we are putting the VISION WELL Security Camera which is also compact and is a wireless camera that is easier for installation than many other alternatives. The camera has a 1080p HD live video and color night vision, which can give you a clear and colorful view of your property at all times. The camera also has a smart AI motion detection and instant alerts, which can tell you if there is any human, vehicle, package activity in your area. You can also communicate with your visitors or deter intruders with the two-way talk which comes in handy when you are too busy to answer the door, or out of hometown.
The camera supports both SD card and cloud storage, which can keep your video safe and accessible. You can also get a free 3-day cycle cloud storage and a 30-day free trial of advanced features, such as AI recognition and custom alert that allows you to adjust the sensitivity and range of the camera to suit your house’s surroundings. The camera is IP65 waterproof, which means it can handle any weather condition. The camera works with 2.4GHz WiFi networks, thus you can control it with a smartphone app without any connectivity problems.
Best Features
- The camera has FHD 1080p resolution
- It comes with IP65 weather resistance
- The field of view extended up to 110 degrees
- 100% waterproof exterior
Pros
- It supports both local and cloud storage
- 2-way audio is available for remote access and communication
- There is a trial period for advanced features
Cons
- Other options are much more affordable with similar feature set
4. TOAIOHO Outdoor Security Cameras
TOAIOHO is bringing yet another cheaper alternative to an outdoor security camera which is available at the price point of a standard video doorbell. However, its features are definitely worth checking out, especially at this price point.
Introducing the cutting-edge TOAIOHO Outdoor Security Camera which offers great features similar to many premium alternatives. First of all, it has a 2K technology that offers enhanced footage quality for clearer and precise surveillance. You can also observe the brilliance of color night vision that can catch intricate details of your surroundings even in the darkest hours. Another feature exclusive to this option is its panoramic 360-degree field of vision. It allows seamless horizontal tracking, ensuring the ability to monitor every movement on your property.
You will also get the intelligent motion and sound detection feature with this camera along with the IP66 waterproof rating that guarantees reliable alerts and resilience against diverse weather conditions. The camera provides multiple storage choices including both SD card and cloud storage so that you can choose the one that suits your requirements the best. The camera can be controlled remotely using a smartphone app, that you can use on iOS as well as Android devices.
Best Features
- The camera has 2K technology
- It comes with IP66 weather resistance
- The field of view extended up to 360 degrees
- Compatible app developed for iOS as well as Android
Pros
- A unique option offering highest coverage area
- The surveillance angle and positioning can be adjusted remotely
- It works over Wi-Fi for uninterrupted feed
Cons
- 5 GHz Wi-Fi network is not supported
5. Google Nest Outdoor Security Cameras
When it comes to complete smart home control, there are only a handful of brands that offer hardware and services to make it happen such as Samsung, Apple, and Google. The following security camera is one part of the Google’s Nest smart home ecosystem and works flawlessly with all devices.
The Google Nest Cam listed here is the 2nd Generation camera from the series that offers standard 1080p resolution along with HDR video support and night vision, which can deliver clear and detailed images in any light condition. It also has a built-in intelligent alert system, which can distinguish between a person, animal, and objects without relying on any external service. You will be receiving the notifications regarding the same through the Google Home app, that too without any subscription or premium fees.
The camera is completely cord-free and battery powered, which means you can place it anywhere you want, without any wires or outlets. It also has a magnetic mount, which makes installation very easy and you can change the positions frequently. The camera also has a 2-way audio and emergency call, which can let you talk and listen to your visitors or call your local emergency service directly from the Google Home app, with a Nest Aware subscription.
Best Features
- The camera has FHD 1080p HDR resolution
- It comes with IP54 weather resistance
- Built-in intelligent alert system
- Operating temperatures range between -4°F to 104°F
Pros
- Best option if you already use Google Nest for smart home services
- Camera automatically stores up to an hour of footage is connectivity is lost
- Mounting and unmounting is very simple
Cons
- Very expensive option for a single camera unit
6. VIRTAVO Outdoor Security Cameras
VIRTAVO has managed to secure the final position for our picks for the best outdoor security camera. Unlike most other brands, VIRTAVO has developed only a single device along with the service to avoid compatibility issues altogether.
If you want a wireless and smart camera under an affordable price range that can give you a clear and colorful view of your home, you should check out the VIRTAVO Security Camera. This camera has the standard 1080p Full HD video feed and starlight color night vision which is definitely an upgrade over traditional B/W night vision. It also has a smart PIR motion detection and real-time notifications so that you don’t have to worry about the status of your front door or backyard when you are not at home.
It also lets you communicate with the visitors via the camera using the 2-way audio features. The camera supports both SD card and cloud storage, for versatile storage choices and safer alternatives for your usage. You get a 30-day cloud service trial with the camera which is perfect for testing out the benefits before paying for the plan.
Best Features
- The camera has FHD 1080p resolution
- Camera supports AI Motion detection
- 100% wire-free design
- Real time notifications over smartphone
Pros
- Highly affordable choice with all standard features
- There is no compromise on the image quality
- Free trial period is available for subscription plan
Cons
- SD card is not included with the package
7. WYZE Outdoor Security Cameras
WYZE is also bringing an affordable choice to our list of the best outdoor security cameras. On top of that, you will receive a set of cameras within a similar price range as many other alternatives.
Our Last choice is the WYZE Cam OG which is a versatile and affordable camera that can help you keep an eye on your home, day and night. This camera also delivers 1080p HD video and color night vision, which can show you every detail in any lighting situation. It also has a built-in spotlight and mini-siren, which can scare away unwanted visitors. You can install this camera indoors or outdoors, as it has an IP65 rating that makes it resistant to rain and dust. Although, you will need the Wyze Power Adapter for outdoor application which is not included in the package.
The camera also has a smart motion and sound detection, which can notify you of any activity in your property. You can also personalize the motion detection zones and settings to match your coverage area. The camera also supports both cloud and local storage, which allows you to store your video securely and conveniently. There are a few advanced features available with this unit with the Cam Plus subscription that you can check out, but it’s not essential. The camera is compatible with the 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network and can be controlled via the smartphone app for remote access.
Best Features
- The camera has FHD 1080p resolution
- It comes with IP65 weather resistance
- The field of view extended up to 120 degrees
- It is a set of 2 cameras
Pros
- Overall coverage area can be doubled with the set
- It has color night vision mode
- Smartphone access it possible with the mobile app
Cons
- Power adapter needs to be purchased separately
Buying Guide For The Best Outdoor Security Cameras
Outdoor security cameras not only work to provide added security to your house, but also provide you instant access to your house’s surroundings, even if you’re not there. So apart from security, these cameras are also a great addition to your smart house setup, especially considering the fact that almost all security cameras nowadays support internet connectivity as well as smart access via voice assistant.
But if you wish to get the best performance and reliability from an outdoor security camera, you need to carefully choose an option based on the specifications and qualities that we will be discussing in this buying guide. Here, we will try to explain the significance of each parameter so that you can compare various different options and go with the one that suits your needs perfectly under your budget.
1. Field of View
The field of view is a critical aspect of an outdoor security camera as it determines the extent of the area the camera can monitor. A wider field of view allows the camera to cover more ground, reducing blind spots and providing comprehensive surveillance. The optimal field of view depends on the specific needs of the surveillance area. For most homeowners, a broader field of view is advantageous for open spaces, while a narrower focus may be suitable for specific target areas. Thus, the field of view is a key factor in maximizing the effectiveness of the camera’s monitoring capabilities and it is even more beneficial if the users can control the FOV for a camera for dynamic adjustments.
2. Night Vision
Night vision capability is essential for outdoor security cameras to ensure continuous surveillance in low-light or night time conditions. Generally, Infrared (IR) LEDs are commonly used for night vision, emitting light not visible to the human eye but detectable by the camera. As a result, the generated footage is black and white and sometimes, the footage may turn out to be useful.
However, the range of night vision is equally crucial, indicating how far the camera can see in complete darkness. A longer night vision range enables the camera to capture clear images at greater distances, enhancing overall security during nighttime hours. Even though IR LED night vision cameras offer better range, it makes sense to go with the color night vision option as you will get a much higher clarity along with a decent range that can cover the premises in front of your door.
3. Video Quality
Video quality is a fundamental feature influencing the effectiveness of an outdoor security camera. Full High Definition (FHD 1080p) 2K (1440p) or even 4K (2160p) resolution cameras provide clear and detailed footage, aiding in the identification of individuals and objects. A higher video quality contributes to better overall surveillance and evidence collection.
The ability to capture fine details, such as facial features or license plate numbers, is particularly important in security applications. But, higher resolution also means higher bandwidth requirements to transfer the captured footage, more storage capacity, and faster battery drain compared to lower resolution cameras. So, make sure to check these factors if you are choosing a higher resolution outdoor security camera.
4. Type of Alert
The type of alert system employed by the outdoor security camera significantly impacts its responsiveness and the user’s ability to react promptly to potential threats. Alerts can include notifications via email, mobile app notifications, or even direct integration with security systems. Customizable alert settings, such as sensitivity levels and notification preferences, allow users to tailor the camera’s response to specific needs. Quick and reliable alerts ensure that users stay informed about any suspicious activity in real-time.
5. User Controlled Movement
Camera movement, often referred to as pan-tilt-zoom functionality, empowers users to remotely adjust the camera’s viewing angle and adjust the vision of the camera as per their requirement. This feature enhances flexibility and allows users to survey a broader area without physically repositioning the camera every time. Pan-and-tilt functionality is particularly valuable for outdoor cameras, as it enables users to respond to dynamic situations and monitor different parts of the surroundings as needed. In most cases, the pan-tilt-zoom features are available within the mobile app and users can remotely adjust the viewing angle and FOV of the camera.
6. Smartphone App Support
Integration with a smartphone app is crucial for modern outdoor security cameras. The app serves as a centralized control hub, allowing users to remotely access live footage, receive alerts, and manage camera settings from their smartphones. User-friendly apps with intuitive interfaces enhance the overall user experience, making it easier to monitor and control the outdoor security camera remotely. Smartphone app support is essential for maximizing the convenience and accessibility of the surveillance system. Without a dedicated smartphone app, it is not possible to get remote access to the camera’s feed or adjust the camera’s settings remotely via a smartphone.
7. Motion Detection
This feature allows the camera to detect and record any movement in its field of view. This can help you save storage space and bandwidth, as the camera only records when there is something happening. It can also alert you if there’s suspicious activity or a potential intruder in your property. Motion detection can be based on different technologies, such as passive infrared, microwave, ultrasonic, or video analysis. You can also adjust the sensitivity and zones of motion detection to reduce false alarms with some premium choices to fit the sensitivity of the cameras as per your liking and the surrounding environment.
8. Storage Type and Capacity
This feature determines how and where the camera stores the video footage it captures. There are two main types of storage that are local and cloud. Local storage means the camera uses a memory card or a hard drive to store the data, while cloud storage means the camera uploads the data to a remote server. The type and capacity of storage affect the security, accessibility, and storage cost of your data. Local storage is generally more secure and easily accessible, but it has limited capacity and can be damaged. On the other hand, cloud storage is more scalable and reliable, but it requires an internet connection and is usually paired with a subscription plan. And with the increasing storage capacity for cloud storage, the subscription charges also increase.
9. Weather Resistance
The weather resistance indicates how well the camera can withstand different weather conditions, such as rain, snow, wind, and heat. A weather-resistant camera has a durable and waterproof design that can protect it from damage and malfunction. This can ensure the camera works reliably and continuously in any environment. Weather resistance is usually measured by the IP rating, which consists of two digits. The first digit indicates the protection against solid objects, such as dust and dirt. The second digit indicates the protection against liquids, such as water and moisture. As you can guess, the higher the digits, the better the protection.
10. Camera Frame Rate
The frame rate of any video file is simply the count of how many frames or images there are in the video file per second. The higher the frame rate, the smoother and more realistic the video quality. A high frame rate camera can capture fast-moving objects and events more clearly and accurately. This can help you identify and analyze the details of the scene. Camera frame rate is usually expressed in frames per second (FPS). The standard frame rate for security cameras is 30 fps, which is sufficient for most situations. However, some cameras can offer higher frame rates, such as 60 fps or 120 fps, for more demanding scenarios. Having a higher FPS also allows users to convert the video footage into slow motion without losing the quality of the output.
11. Connectivity
There are two types of connectivity options available with outdoor cameras that are wired and wireless. Wired connectivity means the camera uses a cable to connect to a router or a recorder, while wireless connectivity means the camera uses Wi-Fi to connect to a central hub or the cloud network directly. The type of connectivity affects the installation, performance, and flexibility of your camera. Wired connectivity is more stable and secure, but it requires a slightly more tedious setup including drilling and fixing the cables in place. Wireless connectivity is relatively more convenient and versatile, but it depends on the signal strength and battery life.
Best Outdoor Security Cameras – FAQs
Ans: The cost of outdoor security cameras depends on various factors, such as the brand, model, features, and quality of the camera. However, there’s also an additional installation cost in some cases as well as maintenance fees and running costs that should be considered. You may also need to consider the cost of storage, power, and internet connection for your outdoor security cameras. Fortunately, there are so many different brands on the market right now that offer the complete outdoor security setup at a very minimal price point. Furthermore, you can also find a lot of options that do not require any subscription plans, eliminating a large sum from the running cost of the system.
Ans: No, not all outdoor security cameras require a monthly subscription. Some cameras offer free or optional cloud storage plans, while others rely on local storage devices, such as memory cards or hard drives, to store the video footage. However, some features and benefits of outdoor security cameras, such as advanced video quality, smart alerts, professional monitoring, and emergency response, may only be available with a paid subscription plan. So, you should compare the different plans and options offered by various camera brands and providers before making a decision
Ans: Cloud storage and local storage are two different ways of storing your digital data. Cloud storage means storing your data on multiple servers at different locations, which are usually maintained by a hosting company. As a result, cloud storage is much more scalable and reliable, and it allows you to easily increase or decrease the amount of storage space as per your needs. Cloud storage is more secure and convenient, as you do not have to worry about losing your data. However, the cloud storage services also come at a significant cost and you may lose access to your stored data if you wish to cancel the subscription or miss the payments frequently.
Ans: Indoor cameras are designed for controlled indoor environments, while outdoor cameras are more suitable for harsh weather conditions. As a result, outdoor cameras are designed to be more durable, waterproof, and impact-resistant than indoor cameras. Many outdoor cameras also have a metal casing or a dome to protect them from tampering. Indoor and outdoor cameras also have variations in features and capabilities. For instance, outdoor cameras may have better night vision, dynamic range, and motion detection features than indoor cameras.
Conclusion
As everything is getting smart these days, it is certainly worth checking out the smart and more capable choices for outdoor security cameras for your home or office in order to update your security status. These devices offer a wide range of features that enhance both security and convenience. But when you are selecting the best outdoor security camera for your needs, it’s crucial to consider specific properties and features. Therefore, we have gathered the best options available out there right now and also included a buying guide for the best outdoor security cameras. Therefore, you can easily check out the best options and compare them based on the information provided in our guide to make the right choice. We also have a few recommendations for you right here.
- If you are wondering where you can find an affordable as well as a trusted option, you have come to the right place. Our 1st recommendation is the GMK Outdoor Security Cameras which is completely wireless and is designed for outdoor usage. Despite being one of the affordable options on this list, this camera offers 1080p FHD video output along with color night vision mode so that you can easily detect any anomalies in the footage recorded at night. Also, this unit is backed by IP65 weather resistance, meaning it can survive in all weather conditions without any worries. You can also test out the upgraded features for up to 30 days in the free trial period before you subscribe to its services.
- But, if the outdoor security camera is going to be an extension of your smart home accessories and services, then the Google Nest Outdoor Security Cameras is definitely the best option for you. Although it is a considerably more expensive option compared to other outdoor cameras, this compact and elegant solution brings you all of the advanced features that you will ever need. It has a built-in algorithm that can differentiate between animals, vehicles, and humans which eliminates the possibility of false alerts. And just like most other premium options, this is very easy to install as it’s completely wireless. Since this is a Google accessory, you can pair the device to the Google Nest hub and get added benefits and advanced accessibility options for no additional cost.
- Lastly, we will recommend one of the most popular options from a highly recognized brand, Blink. The Blink Outdoor Security Cameras is the latest all-in-one solution for outdoor security that doubles the functionality as a video doorbell too. It’s a completely wireless security camera that has an approximately 2-year long battery life despite heavy features such as HD image resolution, 2-way audio support, advanced motion detection, and much more. On top of that, you will also get Alexa support with the Blink Outdoor 4 which allows you to access the camera feed and update its settings with simple voice commands.
