Best Security Camera System On A Budget
Everyone deserves the best home security at the best price.
If you are looking for the best security camera system on a budget, it does not mean that you have to pay a leg and an arm for it. That is to say, finding the best security camera is more about looking for the features that contribute to the best home security than the price.
While looking for cheap home security camera systems, you must not trade quality, features, and durability.
Nowadays, every security camera features smart integration, wireless connectivity, live monitoring, and more at a reasonable price.
That is to say, we have compiled a buying guide to assist you to find the best security camera system for money without compromising essential features.
Best Security Camera System On A Budget: A Quick List
BUYING GUIDE – Best Security Camera System On A Budget
Any burglar alarm is not a home security system, you must know. Home security cameras offer additional benefits that contribute to overall protection and convenience.
Moreover, finding the best camera on a budget requires a keen understanding of some significant features that can make or break your budget. For instance;
Type of security camera systems
There are two major types of security cameras available in the market;
That is to say; both vary in terms of where you would want to place the camera.
What Is a Wireless Security Camera?
These discreet security cameras link to your wifi network and send notifications images and videos to your smartphone.
- Some security cameras require an outlet, while others are powered by rechargeable batteries, making them wireless.
- They differ in storage; some have a local memory card, but most offer cloud storage for saving your data.
- These cameras can be placed anywhere, indoor and outdoor.
What is a Video Doorbell Camera?
Video doorbell cameras are installed on the front doors. Therefore, they are also known as outdoor cameras.
- These cameras are built into doorbells.
- Video doorbell cameras use less voltage.
- You can install them into your existing doorbell wiring.
- Some models offer battery-operated power sources.
- They send notifications to your smartphone when the siren is activated.
- These cameras come with local or cloud storage.
Monthly Cost vs Upfront Cost
Speaking of security cameras on budget, monthly or upfront cost is the most important to consider.
That is to say, you may have to choose between paying one-time or monthly subscriptions.
Hence, depending on your budget, you may have to choose between the two before choosing the one.
Different companies offer different plans when it comes to storage, depending on the model and type of camera.
Upfront Cost
Most security cameras offer upfront costs with their internal storage like a micro SD card or one-time subscription plan.
Pros
Cons
Monthly Cost
Security cameras that offer cloud storage require monthly or annual fees. That is to say, they do not need local storage, and the data is stored on the server.
Pros
Cons
VERDICT
For secure and enhanced protection, cloud storage is a better choice for home security camera systems because they are more versatile for accessing your data.
Moreover, you also get a wide range of options to choose from for cloud storage.
With advancements in home security systems, the free storage and affordable plans vary drastically from one brand to another.
For instance, Arlo pro security camera offers seven days of free storage.
Installation & Power Source; Save Some Extra Bucks
Security cameras vary in how they are installed in your space. There are various options you can choose from; hardwired, wireless, and wire-free.
However, they all differ in terms of connectivity protocol and technology.
What are hardwired security cameras?
Hardwired security cameras need electrical wiring to be powered and start working.
You may install them in the existing home wiring. On the other hand, if you do not already have hardwiring in your home for security cameras, you would have to get it done – which can cost you a little more than the other alternative.
Pros
Cons
What are wire-free security cameras?
Wire-free security cameras offer batteries to power the cameras and require a wifi connection. However, some cameras need their batteries to be replaced. On the other hand, most security cameras offer rechargeable batteries.
What is a wireless security camera?
These cameras need an electrical power source or batteries to run. They need a wifi connection to record, save and send videos and notifications.
Pros
Cons
Connectivity | Hardwired security camera | Wireless security camera | Wire-free security camera |
Technology | Power cable | Cable or batteries | Batteries |
Protocol | Internet cable | Wifi | Wifi |
Installation | Professional | Professional or DIY | DIY |
Camera Security Features
Besides connectivity, type, and storage, you must look for the best camera quality and convenience features.
Custom monitoring zones
Two-way communication; audio and video
Image and video recording resolution
Live-view
Facial recognition
Thermal, PIR, and motion detection
Zoom-in and zoom-out features
Field of view
Night vision; black and white or colored
Smart support app
Home automation; Google Home or Alexa connectivity
Furthermore, personal preference comes into play while choosing the best cheap security camera for various reasons. For instance;
- Where you need a security camera to be installed; indoor or outdoor
- Do you need weatherproofing?
- How many recordings do you require or expect?
- Are you willing to change batteries time and again, or do you just want something to put up and forget?
- Are you willing to invest one time, or would you like to go for monthly costs?
Considering your needs and requirements before making a purchase help in narrowing down your research.
If you are still not sure where to start from, we have the best home security systems for your convenience.
BEST SECURITY CAMERA SYSTEM 2021
These cameras are reviewed for best performance at the best price. You can choose the one that best suits your needs and requirements, and also the budget.
Let’s have a look.
Best Security Camera System Under $500
Firstly, here are some of the best cameras for home security you can have without spending too much.
Swann SWNVK-876804 – Best Security Camera System Without Subscription
● Connectivity Protocol: Ethernet
● Smart integration: Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa
● Resolution: 4K ultra HD
● Storage: 2TB HDD
● Colored night vision
● Light sensors
● Weatherproof construction
By adopting upscaling technology, which digitally creates 4K resolution, you can see everything going on.
While not identical, its Master-Series systems feature substantially better resolution over 1080p in comparison to others, while being less expensive than 4K Ultra HD systems.
It deters burglars and unwanted intruders with strong sensor lights that activate when heat or motion is sensed.
Moreover, with the sensor lights on, this camera capture image or record videos up to 130ft in black and white during total darkness.
- No monthly fee
- Wired connectivity offers a reliable connection
- 4k resolution zoom
- Give a lot of false alarm
- Emails and notifications automatically disable
Arlo Pro 4 Spotlight Camera – Best Security Camera System No Hub
● Connectivity Protocol: Wi-Fi
● Special Feature: Night Vision
● Resolution: 2k HDR
● Smart integration: Amazon Alexa, Google
● Spotlight integration160-degree view angle
● Object and human detection
● Smoke and CO detection
● Colored night vision
This wireless outdoor security camera comes with superior video quality that records in clear 2K HDR footage. It allows you to view more details and zoom in on moving objects with more clarity.
Furthermore, with an exterior camera and attached illumination, you can keep unwanted visitors at bay.
Color night vision allows you to see features such as faces or license plates in vivid color, even at night.
The wire-free configuration of this home security camera provides additional installation versatility for getting the best view from every corner of your surveillance & security cameras.
- Secure plan offers customizable activity zones
- Intelligent AI detection
- Quick and easy wire-free installation
- Affordable security plans start at less as $2.99 per month.
- Battery life is not efficient
- The secure plan required for full features
YESKAMO Security Camera – Best Outdoor Security Camera With Continuous Recording
● Night Vision: Coloured
● Resolution: 3MP Ultra-HD, 1080p
● Monitor: 16 inches
● Sensors: PIR motion activation
● Two-way audio
● 100 ft colored night vision
● QP66 weatherproofing
● IPS monitor
These cameras have IP66 Waterproof metal housing, which makes them best suitable for both indoors and outdoors.
Outdoor security camera systems also allow you to see, speak, and listen to any activity remotely.
For instance, answering the door or chatting with your pet is not a problem anymore. However, you have to install the “YESKAMO” free smartphone app.
Furthermore, this security camera and monitor set is plug-and-play. It adds more convenience to your home security because the monitor and the home cameras auto-pair, so no wires are necessary for connection.
The best part is that you do not need an internet connection for local viewing.
- Free of cost YESKAMO app
- Quick and easy plug and play installation
- No internet required for local viewing
- 2 years warranty
- Built-in 16inch IPS Screen
- 2TB storage offer 60 days of continuous recording
- None to be found
REOLINK RLK8-410B6 – Best 8 Channel Wired Security Camera System
● Resolution: 1080p, 5 MP
● Number of channels: 8
● Night vision: 100ft spotlight vision
● Storage: support up to 12 TB
● 24/7 continuous recording
● 330 ft CAT transmission range
● Firmware updates
● FTP uploading for emergencies
Home security is made easy and affordable with this camera. It features 5MP super HD cameras.
You can capture crystal-quality videos both day and night. Moreover, 18 infrared LEDs provide high-end night vision to 100 feet, allowing you to secure your property even at night.
However, you have to connect every IP camera to the Reolink NVR for power supply and video transmission via a single network cable. You can save additional bucks with its simple DIY installation.
This system prevents false alarms with precise custom detection settings. You can alter the sensitivity, area, along with the recording schedule for detection as per your personal preference.
- Quick and easy plug and play installation
- Customizable motion detection zones
- 2 years warranty
- Work only with Reolink cameras
- No smart home integration
Swann Enforcer SWDVK-846808SL – Best Security Camera System That Works With Alexa
● Connectivity technology: Wired
● Resolution 1080p, full HDstorage: 1TB local storage
● Sensors: Thermal and motion
● Night vision range: 32ft/10m coloured, 130ft black & white
● Google and Alexa smart integration
● IP66 weatherproof
● Blue and red (police-style) flashing lights
Swann Enforcer SWDVK-846808SL is a versatile best security camera system outdoor. Its IP66 waterproof design can endure harsh weather conditions from rain to snow and heat all year.
Moreover, it features smart motion detection. That is to say, it can detect and distinguish between warm objects, including cars and people.
They trigger push messages, lights, and recordings eliminating false alarms compared to other alternatives.
Its Night2Day technology transforms night into day by providing high video quality and 32ft color night vision. It allows you to increase the distance up to 130ft with black and white night vision.
- True Detect technology prevents false alarms
- Easy navigational controls
- Quick and easy installation
- No supporting App
- The menu setup is clumsy
Best Security Camera System Under $400
EufyCam 2C – Best Home Security Camera Kits
● Connectivity technology: Wire-free
● Resolution: 1080p HD
● Field of view: 135 degrees
● Storage: 16GB eMMC
● Human detection technology
● 1 charge 180 days battery
● Built-in spotlights
Making an exception at an affordable price, this camera live-streams and records video in 1080p HD.
Moreover, its wider 135° diagonal field of view lets you see everything going on in and around your home.
Speaking of the battery, you can enjoy 180 days without worrying about charging the camera day and night. It prevents false alarms with human detection technology that intelligently detects and distinguishes objects, animals, and humans.
Exceptional night vision and IP67 weatherproofing make it one of the best security cameras while staying within budget.
- Long battery life
- No hidden charges
- 100% wire-free
- Build to last construction and weatherproofing
- Brightest spotlight
- The App does not support desktop
- Forced updates to Homebase and camera
REOLINK RLK8-410B4 – Best Security Camera System With Night Vision
● Connectivity Protocol: Ethernet
● Storage: 2TB HDD
● Channels: 8
● Resolution: 4MP HD
● Night vision; 100 ft.
● 2048-bit RSA video encryption
● App authenticity verification
● Motion triggered recording
● Remote access via android and MAC
If you are looking for a DIY and easy-to-install camera, this is the one. All you have to do is link the security camera into the NVR using a simple PoE connection.
It makes installation simple for beginners and DIYers. The cables can span up to 270ft with a CAT5 Ethernet line. Moreover, they can expand to 330ft with a CAT6 Ethernet wire, which adds flexibility.
Speaking of the performance, it supports simultaneous recording of up to 8 channels. Smart motion-triggered alarms will keep your home and business safe 24/7.
You can also configure your NVR to overwrite older footage to create room for newer files. You can also export the files to a USB drive at your convenience.
- Lifetime tech support
- Offer ultimate privacy
- Long 330 ft. cables
- Instructions manual is not very helpful with the installation
- Picks flashes in night vision
ZOSI 16CH – Best Security Camera System Without Subscription
● Compression: H. 265/H.265+
● Channels: 16
● Resolution: 1080P HD-TVI
● Night vision: 130 ft.
● Construction: ABS aluminum metal
● Storage: 2TB HDD
● Motion detection
● Remote access via app
● Instant alerts
● 24/7 recording
● Simultaneous multiple devices viewing
Are you looking for the best security camera system without a subscription?
This camera offers a free app. You can remotely access live viewing and playback on Wi-Fi-enabled smart devices.
This 16-channel DVR is compatible with analog HD-TVI CVI AHD cameras. Therefore, you can add additional cameras.
However, there is a limitation of 4 pieces of 720P resolution or 1080P Bullet or Dome cameras.
Their aluminum metal and ABS housing make them suitable for both indoors and outdoors.
Furthermore, In absolute darkness, you can see up to 80 feet, and in ambient light, you can see up to 130 feet.
You can set a custom motion detection zone individually for each camera for fewer false alarms, unlike most security cameras.
- Free App with live-view
- Customizable recording
- It comes with a security-grade hard drive
- It can be used indoors and outdoors
- Highly exceptional night vision
- None to be found
Ring Spotlight Cam – Best Security Camera System With Two Way Audio
● Field of view: 140° horizontal, 78° vertical
● Sensors: motion-activated LED spotlights and siren
● Connectivity technology: rechargeable battery
● Connectivity protocol: Wi-fi
● Two-way communication
● High weather endurance
● Remotely activated siren
● Customizable motion detection zones
● Noise cancellation
Ring offers the best home security indoors and outdoors. This camera has got it all from live-view to remote access and high-end video resolution.
With Live View custom video and audio, you can monitor your property in HD and check-in videos at any time.
It sends notifications on your phone, tablet, or PC whenever there is any activity detected.
You can remotely see, hear, and communicate with individuals on your property from anywhere.
Spotlight Cam safeguards your house 24 hours a day, with HD video, lights, and a siren.
- Simple 5 to 10 minutes installation
- Quick-release battery back
- It comes with installation tools
- Glitch on less than 2 Mbps speed
YESKAMO – Best Continuous Recording Camera
● Channels: 8CH
● Connectivity technology: Wireless
● Storage: +2TB HDD
● Night Vision: colored
● FOV: 100 ft.
● Sensors: PIR motion detectors
● Compression: H.265
● 27/7 recording
● 60 days loop recording
● IP66 weatherproofing
● 7 sirens
The YESKAMO wireless security is auto-pairing and simple to set up. It comes with a full user manual. You simply have to follow the instructions step by step to install the camera, even if this is your first time.
Moreover, with its IP66 waterproof material, you can use it both indoors and outdoors.
It features a floodlight, siren alert, two-way communication, and an audio record. If you have a problem with the installation or other issues, you can get competent assistance via email within 24 hours.
This wireless security camera has a dual sensor for PIR (Passive Infrared) detection and motion detection.
You can conveniently switch between the two sensors. Therefore, with PIR Detection, you will receive real-time notifications to your phone when it detects human or animal movements, rather than wind, branch swing, or cars.
- Ultra-bright LED lights
- Real-time notifications
- Plug and play
- The user guide is not clear
- CMS system is complex
Best Security Camera System Under $300
Ring Spotlight Cam
● Field of View: 140° horizontal, 78° vertical
● Connectivity protocol: Wifi
● Sensors: Motion Detection
● Siren: Remote-activated alarm
● Advanced customizable motion zones
● Two-way communication
● Motion-activated LED lights
● Smart integration
Ring Spotlight Cam features 1080p HD resolution that allows you to see, hear, and speak to visitors from your phone,
tablet, or PC at any time. It records all of your films and stores them for up to 60 days.
You can review or share them with Ring Protect Plan. However, it will cost you to get the subscription separately.
Moreover, this camera has smart home integration. You can connect it to Alexa and set motion alerts.
Also, you can have a live view of the front door or any place the camera is installed with a voice command.
Furthermore, you have had to hardwire electrical boxes for proper weatherproofing. Its built-in LED light and a siren add additional protection to your home.
- 10-15 minutes average install time
- Noise cancellation
- Weather-resistant
- Lifetime theft protection
- It comes with installation tools
- The ring automatically update the firmware
- Cause connectivity problem above 2.4 GHz network
Kittyhok Dual WiFi
● Storage: 1 TB
● FOV: 100 degrees
● Connectivity technology: wireless
● Connectivity protocol: Dual Wifi
● Night vision: 100 ft.
● Motion detection
● IP66 weatherproof
● Kittyhok App support
This camera adds more comfort and protection to your home with its flawless installation and performance. It comes with the latest dual WiFi modules.
The NVR connects wirelessly to the camera and also to the home network.
Therefore, it adds flexibility to your system. You can install them anywhere within a good wifi range.
Furthermore, a free app and desktop software allow you to play videos and go through images remotely.
This camera is perfect for owners of larger properties. It covers every corner, both in the daytime or nighttime.
- Storage can be extended up to 6 TB
- Long-range wifi
- Remote view with free App
- No monthly subscription
- Overwrite on older data
Ring Stick Up Cam Battery HD
● Connectivity technology: wire-free
● Connectivity protocol: Wifi
● Resolution: 1080p HD
● Live View
● Two-way audio
● Noise cancellation
● Smart integration Alexa
Along with protection, this camera adds to the convenience with its smart integration feature.
You can connect it to your internet for home automation. Now, your home security is within a command with Amazon Alexa.
The Ring gives control to the user’s hand. With its custom privacy, and motion detection zones, you can prevent unnecessary alarms by restricting areas of your choice.
Moreover, it offers live-view through the Ring app. However, you have to purchase the subscription plan that allows you to store videos and images for up to 60 days.
Adding versatility, it can be installed on a ceiling, placed on a flat surface, or attached to an add-on stick mount, which comes separately.
Stick in the battery and be ready to go!
- 5 minutes installation
- Quick-release battery pack
- Can be ceiling mounted with add-on mount(sold separately)
- Paid subscription plans for live view
Hiseeu Home – Best Outdoor Security Camera
● Connectivity technology: wireless
● Connectivity protocol: Wifi
● Resolution: 1080p HD
● Night Vision: 3.0 MP, 65 ft.
● Compression: H.264, H.265+
● IP66 weatherproofing
● Reduce bandwidth save 50% storage
● Motion detection
This camera is the best affordable wireless security camera, beating higher price tags.
However, the cameras connect wirelessly to the NVR, but you have to connect the NVR to a power source. It is simple and quick to install within a few simple steps.
Besides working, this camera is storage efficient with its H.265 data compression ratio helps save space without compromising the quality. It records at 1080p.
Furthermore, it comes with a pre-installed 1TB HDD.
You can access your data and control the cameras with the “EseeCloud” free app for Android and iOS. Above all, its IP66 weatherproofing gives you a longer performance.
- No monthly subscription
- Reduced false alarm
- Quick and easy installation
- It comes with an extension antenna
- One way audio
SimpliSafe 9 Piece – Best Security Camera System DIY
● Connectivity technology: wire-free
● Connectivity protocol: wifi
● Resolution: 1920×1080
● Smart integration: Google Home, Amazon Alexa, Google Home
● Motions alerts
● Touch keypad controls
● 2 motion sensors
Simplisafe has its name in security camera systems from affordable to high-end systems.
This SimpliSafe camera is easy to install. Take it out of the box, plug the base station, place your sensors, and you are good to go.
Speaking of functionality, this camera is best suitable for smaller homes to larger properties.
It offers professional monitoring along with fire and medical dispatch in case of emergencies. Moreover, the subscription starts as low as 50c/day.
It works perfectly fine up to 1000ft. range with a good wifi connection. Its dual backup for the battery enhances the protection in or around the home.
You can connect up to 100 sensors to this security system for additional coverage. Take control in your hands with Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa.
- Plug and play
- No tools required
- No contracts
- Wide range – no extender needed
- Do not connect to Alexa without a monthly fee
- The range is not enough
Best Security Camera System Under $200
Wyze Cam Outdoor
● Connectivity Protocol: Wi-Fi
● Connectivity technology: wire-free
● Resolution: 1080p
● Night vision: 25 ft
● Sensors: PIR and thermal detection
● Storage: expandable 32 GB
● Colored night vision
● 24/7 recording
● HD live streaming
The most innovative, low-profile base and multiple cameras allow you to install the camera inside or outside your home quickly and easily. It also works in the most adverse conditions.
That is to say, you can install it at remote corners of the house because of its wire-free technology.
Moreover, Wyze Cam comes with a crisp and sharp night vision up to 25 ft. with PIR motion detection. It efficiently distinguishes between living beings or objects.
Thus, it prevents false alarms. You can now talk to your visitors more about the protection because of its built-in speaker and microphone.
- 14 days free cloud storage
- Exceptional night vision
- Best value security
- Battery life is not adequate
- Continuous updates
Firstrend NVR System
● FOV: 72 degrees
● Night Vision: up to 65ft
● Connectivity protocol: wifi
● 24/7 recording
● IP66 weatherproofing
● Record without HDD
Whether you are looking for a quick installing solution to your security or some properly wired system, the Firstrrend security camera delivers high-end video, 24/7 recording, wireless connection, and remote monitoring.
Firstly, it can be DIY installed. Secondly, with up to 8 camera connectivity (package includes 4 cameras), you can cover every corner of your house.
Firstrend camera does not include HDD but comes with a SATA interface. It features a free app for remote access.
Moreover, unlike other cameras, it comes with 60 days free return and a 1-year warranty makes it the best home security on a budget.
- Exceptional customer support
- Auto pairing
- Plug and play installation
- It does not come with a hard drive
ZOSI 8WN-211B4S-10-US
● Compression: H.265+
● Channels: 8CH
● Resolution: 1080P
● Sensors: motion detection
● Form: bullet
● Continuous recording
● Schedule recording
● Smart motion detection
● Remote access
ZOSI cameras have a strong and sturdy construction despite the lower price factor.
You can install it on your own without professional assistance. However, the instruction manual is not as good as it could be.
Moreover, this camera features a clear and well-focused night vision. The cables included in the package are of good length.
Keeping your surroundings safe and protected against thefts and deterrents is convenient with its continuous recording.
With its pre-installed 1TB HDD, it is easier to record non-stop. However, as per your need and requirement, you can extend the storage up to 8TB.
Saying that you can use rich motion detection that allows customizable motion detection zones. It helps in preventing false alarms and also saves a lot of space.
- Expandable camera storage
- Aluminum housing
- Vandal-proof
- Instructions are not clear
- Automatically reboot cameras
ZOSI 8MN-106B8S-00-US
● Connectivity technology: Corded Electric
● Resolution: 1080P
● Compression: H. 265/H.265+
● Channels: 8CH
● Form: Bullet Cameras
● Night vision: 80ft
● Sensors: Motion Alerts
● IP66 weatherproofing
● App support
● Customizable motion detection zones
Reliable home security is in everyone’s reach with ZOSI.
This camera features a high-end video compression ratio to save space on the device. Its low-but rate offers ultra-long recording.
You can expand your storage up to a 2TB HDD. Moreover, with custom motion detection zones, it only records at specific times or detects specific objects. It helps in saving storage, unlike the secure24/7 monitoring.
Moreover, it comes with a free app that allows you to view all your cameras in one place remotely.
That is to say, it makes a good camera for home security, however, it does not have a hard drive included in the price. You have to get an HDD separately.
- Free App for remote access
- Smart search and playback
- Work without internet
- Free ZOSI AVSS on PC/Mac
- Automatically rewrite on older data
- Picture quality is mediocre
Blink Indoor
● Connectivity technology: Wire-free
● Resolution: 1080p
● FOV: 110 degrees
● Night vision: 1080p
● DIY installation
● Smart integration Alexa
● Blink App Home Monitor
Blink Indoor is powered by a battery, thus offering wireless and DIY installation. It allows you to check on your home at any time of the day or night, thanks to infrared night vision.
Moreover, the best thing about this camera is that you do not have to worry about changing or charging batteries time and again. Its two AA lithium batteries run smoothly for up to 2 years.
However, it offers cloud storage. You will have to get a paid subscription for full features and remote access.
With the help of premium App features, you can set custom motion zones. It helps in reducing false alarms and also saves space on the cloud.
With the Blink app’s real-time live view and two-way audio features, you can interact with the visitors or the people at home from anywhere.
- Exceptional 2-year battery life
- Batteries included
- Customizable motion detection zones
- Place, stand, or mount setup
- Require subscription for full access
- Separate USB required for local storage
- Require high-speed internet
Conclusion
Ultimately, finding the best camera on budget needs prospering picking of what features you need the most. That is to say, you may have to trade some features for others, but not every time.
For instance, brands like Blink and Ring offer affordable plans. In contrast, some companies like ZOSI offer no monthly subscription for remote access.
Firstly, personal preference like where and how much you will be going to use it. If you are more concerned about nighttime surveillance, you must invest in a camera that comes with a high-end night vision.
Tags: budget cameras