Decades ago, wireless security cameras seemed impossible, but now, they are everywhere. Some are wireless because they transmit data (also known as video and audio) over a wireless network rather than a cable. Others are completely wireless: they use wireless networks to transmit video and are battery-powered, eliminating the need for power cords altogether.
In our search for the best security cameras, we came across and tested dozens of wireless security cameras. While testing them, we noticed many benefits of going wireless. For the uninitiated, they are easy to install. With the battery-powered option, there’s also no need to worry about the location of outlets during installation, and during power outages, these cameras stay on and ready to guard your home.
So, if you like wireless security devices – or more specifically, if you don’t like wired security devices – read on for the best wireless cameras on the market today.
Nest Cam (battery)
The well-designed Nest Cam (battery) is simple in form and, thanks to its magnetic base, is one of the easiest home security cameras to install. Its 1080p camera captures crisp images day and night, and its microphone and speaker make conversations a breeze.
The Nest Cam (battery) also offers three hours of free rolling video storage, as well as person, vehicle and animal detection. If you sign up for a Nest Aware subscription (starting at $6 per month), you also get familiar face detection and the ability to store up to a month’s worth of video.
Arlo Pro 4
The Arlo Pro 4 is a great battery-powered camera, especially if you want fast setup, multiple cameras, and great video quality. Its 2K video is better than 1080p thanks to IR night vision and a built-in spotlight, and the outdoor camera can record clear video at any time.
Setup is a breeze with helpful tutorials in the Arlo app. The magnetic wall mount makes it easy to install anywhere. While you must pay for cloud video storage on Arlo Pro 4, it is one of the more affordable subscription services at $2.99 per month.
Ezviz C3X
Security cameras that see clearly in broad daylight may not be as powerful at night. Combine poor night vision with the typical compression of a camera, and you may get nearly useless footage after the sun goes down. However, the Ezviz C3X is designed with nighttime in mind. This wireless security camera features two separate 2MP image sensors that combine what they see with the help of infrared lights to produce bright, full-color night vision footage.
In addition to night vision, the Ezviz C3X has a number of smart features. You can set zones to detect activity and receive alerts on your phone. You can also record custom voice messages that play based on what the camera sees – “Get off my lawn!” Anyone? The camera can record to an internal microSD card, a supported cloud storage service, or Ezviz’s standalone NVR storage device. And since the C3X is connected to Wi-Fi for Internet connectivity, you can also get a live view from your phone and even take advantage of two-way audio capabilities.
Ring Spotlight
If you’re looking for a wireless camera that can help you scare away intruders, the Ring Spotlight Cam has what you need.
This security camera comes with an alarm that can scare anyone away, and it also has a motion detector that glows when motion is detected and starts recording.
The best part about this Ring Spotlight is that it supports audio input and output, because you can use any Android, iOS, Windows or Mac device to talk to people in your home. You can also choose the Spotlight Solar version, which lets you charge your camera with a solar panel, and this alternative is also a great money-saver.
Logitech Circle 2
The Logitech Circle 2 has the advantage of being a completely wireless camera that doesn’t require a base station, which means it’s easy to set up and saves space. You also get free cloud storage, which works with Smart Alerts to keep alerts to a minimum. All of these use good quality video that provides a clear on-screen picture for day and night scenes.
Motion zones are an option, but they require you to pay for a subscription service, which also gives you access to upgraded blocks of cloud storage space. While there are better quality cameras on the market, the Circle 2 manages to offer most of the best features and decent quality, and the price does a good job of undercutting the competition.
The bottom line
Whether you’re looking for a more expensive and full-featured camera or a practical model that gets the job done on a budget, there’s an option for every family to up your security game and keep your home safe.
