We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article.
Our homes keep us safe, but how do we keep our homes are safe?
With lockdown and travel restrictions easing, more and more of us will be spending time away from our homes. And, while it's not something we'd like to think about, we can't always be sure that something wont happen to our homes when we're not there. It makes sense then that wifi security cameras have risen in popularity recently. Not only are they quick and easy to install, but they're much cheaper than a traditional CCTV setup too. And, 'cause they're wireless, they don't clutter up your home with bulky wiring. Win win.
So what actually is a wifi security camera?
A wifi security camera allows you to check what's going on at home via a live stream on an app. The security camera records everything going on within its view, and detects motion too – whether that's a person, pet or something else. The security system saves the recordings so that you can look back on them if you need to as well.
There's two different kinds of wifi security camera – indoor and outdoor. Outdoor cameras are weatherproof and record anything going on outside your property, while indoor cameras allow you to see what's going on inside your home (so now you'll finally know what the cats get up to while you're at work).
Here's our pick of the best wifi security cameras for every budget.
Why we like it: Who says security cameras can't be stylish? This security camera comes in two v appealing colourways – white and champagne gold or black and brushed copper.
Spec:
• Smartphone livestream
• AC power source
• 1080p resolution
• 24 hour playback
• 8.8 x 8.8 x 14.5 cm
Arlo Ultra Wireless Home Security Camera System
Why we like it: This security camera system comes with two cameras that can be fitted inside or outdoors, and they both feature an integrated spotlight too.
Spec:
• Battery powered
• UHD video quality
• Colour night vision
• 8.9 x 5.2 x 7.8 cm
Blink Home Security Blink Mini Compact Indoor Plug-in Smart Security Camera
Why we like it: A wifi security camera for under £25, what's not to like?
Spec:
• Amazon Alexa compatible
• Micro USB power adaptor
• 1080p resolution
• 5 x 4.9 x 3.6 cm
TP-LINK Tapo Pan/Tilt Smart Security Indoor Camera
Why we like it: This security camera works with any wifi router without the need for a separate hub, and sends a notification straight to your phone if any motion is detected.
Spec:
• Two way audio
• AC power source
• 1080p resolution
• 8.64 x 8.68 x 11.77 cm
TP-Link Tapo C100 Smart 1080p Wifi Indoor Security Camera
Why we like it: Not only is this security camera under £20, but it also features a sound and light alarm to frighten off any intruders.
Spec:
• Two way audio
• 1080p resolution
• 9.8 x 6.7 x 5.4 cm
• 9.14m night vision range
TP-Link Tapo C310 Pan Outdoor Wifi Smart Security Camera
Why we like it: This outdoor security camera is fully weatherproof and works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.
Spec:
• Two way audio
• UHD video quality
• 6.4 x 14.2 x 10.3 cm
• 30m night vision range
Why we like it: This indoor camera plugs straight into your TV monitor, and has a two-way audio system, so you can welcome guests, or warn off potential intruders.
Spec:
• True Detect heat-and-motion detection
• 1080p resolution
• 21 x 20 x 10 cm
• 10m night vision range
Yale Indoor/Outdoor WiFi Camera with Light & Siren
Why we like it: This camera can be used inside or outside, and has an inbuilt light and siren to frighten off any unwanted visitors.
Spec:
• In-app playback
• Weatherproof
• Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant compatible
• 11 x 8 x 8cm
• 10m night vision range
Why we like it: This security camera has a facial recognition system for up to 10 people, and allows remote viewing from compatible smartphones.
Spec:
• Seven day cloud storage
• Two way audio
• Heat, motion and person sensor
• Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant compatible
• 1080p resolution
• 8.5 x 5.1 x 5.5 cm
Why we like it: This camera is cheap and cheerful, and still fully equipped with all the features you'd expect from a security system.
Spec:
• Remote viewing from your smartphone
• Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant compatible
• Motion detection
• Two way audio
• 8.8 x 5.9 x 4.9 cm
Why we like it: We didn't realise a security camera could look so cute, but this one certainly proved us wrong.
Spec:
• Monitor on your smartphone or tablet
• Sound or motion detection notifications
• 1080p resolution
• 16.7 x 16.6 x 10.7 cm
X makes major change to Grok after backlash – will it work?
How to make your own AI Scream photo
Is this hiker the happiest person on Twitter?
Er, what actually is Spotify Lossless?
