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The best affordable home security cameras: Compare models from Wyze, Arlo, and more
Protecting your home is important, but not everyone has the budget for a home security system worth thousands of dollars. While it can be beneficial to have cameras watching every doorway and window, siren-equipped floodlight systems, and sensors everywhere, sometimes, one or two well-placed cameras will perform just as well.
Luckily, with the advanced smart home technology landscape, there are quality security cameras that don't compromise safety for price, granting you peace of mind and allowing you to check on your space in real time.
Also: The best security cameras
ZDNET's top pick for the best home security camera under $100 is the Wyze Cam Pan v3, which at the time of writing is only $34 and promises both indoor and outdoor home security and a compact, easy to use design. Read on to see how other models, all under the $100 price tag, compare and which is best for your home.
The best cheap home security cameras under $100 in 2023
- Affordable
- Versatile
- IP65 weather resistance
- The design won't suit everyone
Wyze Cam Pan v3 features: Camera: 1080p HD resolution | Night vision: Yes | Two-way audio: Yes | Indoor or outdoor: Both; IP65 rating | Form factor: Plug in; wired | Viewing angle: Pan-tilt | Motion detection: Yes, motion tracking
The Wyze Cam Pan v3 is my top pick for cheap security cameras in 2023. Coming far below $100 at only $35 directly from the vendor, this camera packs various useful features into a small, compact device.
You can expect the camera to record footage in 1080p, and it even comes with color night vision. Furthermore, the Wyze camera has pan, tilt, and zoom functions, making it a great option indoors or outdoors if you want to keep an eye on your home, pets, and children via motion tracking or live view. Additionally, the camera is compatible with Google Home and Alexa.
Also: What is the best outdoor security camera (and which is easiest to install)?
- Alexa-compatible
- Infrared night vision
- Motion activation
- Need a subscription for premium features
- Indoor use only
Blink Mini features: Camera: 1080p HD resolution | Night vision: Yes | Two-way audio: Yes | Indoor or outdoor: Indoor only | Form factor: Wired, plug-in | Viewing Angle: One, no tilt or pan | Motion detection: Yes
The Blink Mini is a compact home security camera with a 1080p HD camera for a better-than-expected performance. It has a simple plug-in design that makes setup swift with easy smartphone connectivity. There are also other features like motion detection and two-way audio.
The live view keeps you in the know at all times, plus you can use the two-way audio to communicate with family and guests alike. You can even customize motion detection zones for specific areas of your home or office.
Also: The best video doorbells
- Alexa compatible
- Two-year battery life
- Motion alerts
- Lacks major features
- Must use Wi-Fi
Blink Outdoor security camera features: Camera: 1080p HD resolution | Night vision: Yes | Two-way audio: Yes | Indoor or outdoor: Indoor or outdoor; weather-resistant | Form factor: Wireless; battery-powered | Viewing Angle: 110 degree diagonal | Motion detection: Yes; motion alerts
The Blink Outdoor security camera uses wireless connectivity with an easy setup that skips the wiring and professional installation. It uses a battery-powered design that runs up to two years on the AA batteries that are also included -- allowing you to install, set, and forget, while ensuring your garden or driveway is secure. Right now, Best Buy is selling the camera for 50% off, for $50.
The camera's other features are attractive, too, including infrared night vision, motion detection alerts, customized motion zones, and live view with two-way audio. You also have the option to upgrade to the Blink Subscription Plan to access cloud storage.
- Wireless
- Integrated spotlight
- Compatible with Apple HomeKit, Alexa, and Google Assistant
- Subscription required to unlock advanced features
Arlo Essential Spotlight camera features: Camera: 1080p HD resolution | Night vision: Yes | Two-way audio: Yes | Indoor or outdoor: Both | Form factor: Wireless; rechargeable battery | Viewing Angle: 130-degree angle | Motion detection: Yes
The Arlo Essential Spotlight camera is one of the more premium devices I recommend. Useful as part of a wider ecosystem, this 130-degree field-of-view camera can be used indoors or outdoors, and comes with an integrated spotlight to light up outside areas.
This security camera will appeal to many due to its stylish look, and with it being wireless, you don't have to worry about the hassle of a wired installation -- or the cost of one.
Also: The best dash cams
At the moment, the best deal on this camera can be found on Arlo's website. Normally set at a retail price of around $130, Arlo and Amazon have a single camera on sale for $70. You can also pick up a three-pack at Amazon for just under $200.
- Alexa compatible
- Wireless connectivity
- Local storage
- Siren
- Subscription required for certain features
- Limited night vision
TP-Link Tapo features: Camera: 1080p HD resolution | Night vision: Yes, but limited | Two-way audio: Yes | Indoor or outdoor: Indoor | Form factor: Wireless | Viewing Angle: Pan/tilt field of view | Motion detection: Yes
TP-Link Tapo is a wireless indoor model that lacks any weather resistance but still packs a punch with multiple features. For daytime use, there is a pan/tilt IP camera that allows for scanning with a wider field of view. Enjoy night vision up to 30 feet away with a motion sensor with instant push notifications and two-way audio.
Other features include a built-in siren that you can sound whenever a threat is detected. This is a home security camera that is perfect for surveillance of your home, office, or other areas that you want monitored.
Also: This Ring camera hack helps me keep a close eye on my most dangerous tech
What is the best cheap home security camera?
The best cheap home security camera is the Wyze Cam v3, combining excellent features with outstanding value. With a clear picture and water resistance, this is a versatile camera you can use indoors and out. While other cameras we have recommended offer more features, for the price point, you can't do much better for an affordable security solution.
To see how it compares, this is an overview of the best cheap home security cameras.
Home security camera | Cost | Resolution | Weather-resistant | Night vision? |
Wyze Cam Pan v3 | $35 | 1080p | ✔ | ✔ |
Blink Mini | $35 | 1080p | ✗ | ✔ |
Blink Outdoor security camera | $50 | 1080p | ✔ | ✔ |
Arlo Essential Spotlight camera | $70 | 1080p | ✔ | ✔ |
TP-Link Tapo | $25 | 1080p | ✗ | ✔ |
Which is the right cheap home security camera for you?
It really depends if you're looking for an indoor or outdoor camera, what area coverage you need, if certain video features like night vision are important to you, and what price you're willing to spend.
To help you find the best cheap home security camera for you, our expert recommendations can help.
Choose this cheap home security camera... | If you want... |
Wyze Cam Pan v3 | The best overall option. The Wyze Cam v3 combines reliable security features with an extremely affordable price point, as well as compatibility with Google Home and Alexa. |
Blink Mini | Something compact to handle a smaller area. This camera is simple to install, too, being plug-and-play. |
Blink Outdoor Security Camera | An affordable outside security camera. With up to two years of battery life on offer, you can install, set, and forget. |
Arlo Essential Spotlight camera | A wireless, direct-to-Wi-Fi security camera that can be used indoors and outdoors. The color night vision is a nice touch, too, as is the camera's weather resistance. |
TP-Link Tapo | A feature-rich camera with pan-and-tilt functions. While it isn't suitable for the outdoors, the inbuilt siren will make intruders in your home think twice. |
How did we choose these cheap home security cameras?
When searching for the best cheap home security cameras, these are some factors to consider that helped shape our decision.
- Location: Not all home security cameras have the weatherproofing required to work outdoors. Be sure to double-check which home security cameras have the type of build you need based on the intended location.
- Wired: If you decide to purchase a wired home security camera -- especially one intended for use outside -- be sure to remember that professional installation will likely raise the overall cost.
- Camera: The standard for home security cameras is a 1080p resolution, but there are also models these days with 4K video. Anything less than 1080p will deliver a subpar picture that lacks all of the sharpness and clarity you would otherwise receive.
- Features: Whether it is motion detection or two-way audio, there are many features that can make a cheap home security camera the best pick for you. Even on entry-level price points, many vendors provide functions that ensure their products are valuable security additions to your home.
Do security cameras have a monthly fee?
Most cheap home security cameras come with a monthly fee if you want upgraded features. However, it is typically possible to continue to use the camera without a membership, although you will likely lose access to features like live video and night vision.
While many home security camera vendors push their subscription plans, if you just want a camera for basic security, it often isn't necessary -- and will add to your overall bill.
What is the easiest home security camera to install?
Many cheap home security cameras are wireless for extra convenience. Wired models typically require installation, which can easily get pricey. Be sure to carefully shop your options and consider installation. If an easy installation is one of your priorities, plug-and-play or wireless devices might be more suitable.
Do home security cameras require Wi-Fi all the time?
Some camera models don't require an internet connection to record video footage. Instead, they store this footage locally, such as on a microSD card, for viewing.
Review: EufyCam3 and Home Base 3: Why I'm not getting rid of these cameras yet
That said, you'll miss some of the most important features, like cloud video storage and alerts, if you don't connect your camera to the internet. If someone tries to break into your home while you're there and you aren't notified about the situation until it's too late you could lose precious seconds.
Are there alternative cheap home security cameras worth considering?
Our recommendations for cheap home security cameras include various indoor and outdoor options, different pricing, and special features. Below are other recommendations for smart security cameras that won't break the bank.