Do you want to keep tabs on what’s happening…and has happened…outside your home? We asked security professional Robert Siciliano to highlight the best outdoor security cameras available now…
Before You Start Shopping
Remember the golden rule for any security system—it won’t be any good if you don’t use it. Be realistic about your needs and abilities. Examples: Wireless outdoor security cameras are great…but if you’re the kind of person who won’t remember (or won’t bother) to charge yours after its battery dies, then you’re better off with something wired.
And while some cameras are a snap to set up, others practically require an engineering degree. If you aren’t prepared to climb ladders, drill holes and run wires (or to hire someone to do all that for you), then a simple setup is best.
Consider, too, where and how the data will be stored. Some cameras keep files locally. If you need to retrieve a file, are you up to scaling a ladder and removing the drive from the device? If not, a camera that stores files on the cloud is a better choice.
Of course, there also are issues of image resolution, night vision, face and car recognition, speakers and alarms. What exactly do you want your camera to do? Look closely for features that matter to you, and don’t pay extra for those you don’t need.
Best overall: Arlo Pro 5S 2K Indoor/Outdoor Wireless Spotlight Security Camera
Arlo’s camera provides excellent 2K video quality, which is mid-range in terms of resolution but sufficient to read a license plate number from 50 feet. After dark, it uses color night vision and a spotlight. It has a crisply responsive motion detector, long battery life and two-way audio with a loud siren. Setup is quick and easy, and the app is user-friendly. But the 5S is not for you if you’re looking for the best outdoor security cameras without subscription. Files aren’t stored locally, so you must pay for cloud storage, which can range from $7.99 to $24.99 per month depending on the plan you choose. $119 from Arlo.com.
Best affordable: Wyze Cam v4
Wyze’s camera generates 2.5K video and offers smart detection features. You can store data either in a microSD card or on the cloud, and it’s compatible with Alexa and Google Home. While the v4 does provide motion detection zones, it doesn’t offer geofencing (the ability to block out certain areas from prompting alerts, such as a busy roadway). This is not a wireless camera, so it requires some thoughtful setup. $29.98 from Wyze.com.
Best wired “set it and forget it”: Lorex 4K+ H-Series Wired Security Camera Systems
These products come at a heftier price tag, but they are part of a modular system that can accommodate up to 16 cameras (eight Wi-Fi and eight wired), and the data-storage unit (called an NVR) saves you money on monthly subscriptions. The 12-megapixel cameras record continuously, with advanced night vision. From $390 on Lorex.com.
