Some of the Security cameras I recommend are a bit expensive, but there are a handful of solid models that cost less. Enter: my curated list of the best home security cameras that are priced at or under $ 100. These three cameras are very different in terms of features and functionality, but I can only recommend them to everyone.
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You really can’t beat the Wyze Cam if you’re looking for an affordable surveillance camera with solid performance. Here’s the essential:
- It costs $ 20
- It comes with two weeks of free cloud storage
- The camera has an optional local memory via an integrated microSD card slot
- You can set a custom motion detection zone for free
These things together make the Wyze Cam difficult to compare. Yes, it’s indoor only and the app isn’t perfect, but the Wyze Cam is an excellent choice if you want a live streaming camera that works well for less. It also works with Alexa voice commands – and other Wyze devices.
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Get back $ 60 with the Tend Secure Lynx indoor camera (now known as the Indoor 2 camera). It has all the regular functions of a typical home security camera, such as live streaming, motion detection and night vision. However, it also offers free 7-day video clip storage and free facial recognition features.
Use the app to create a custom database of friends, family members and other regular visitors (although social distancing is fully effective, visitors are likely to be at a minimum at the moment). Then the camera detects faces and sends warnings to your phone to let you know that it has just seen “Dave” or “Molly”. The camera’s facial recognition performance improves over time, as well.
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The Blink XT2 starter kit comes with a Blink XT2 camera and a required Wi-Fi module – all for $ 100. After that, each additional XT2 camera you buy costs $ 90. (It seems like it should be less since the Wi-Fi module is retailed for $ 50 alone, but it’s still a good deal.)
The camera itself is battery operated and is powered by two AA lithium metal batteries. It is designed for a lifespan of up to two years. So far, the XT2, which I test for a long time, has been running continuously since last July. It also has free video clip storage that you can view in the Blink app.
Blink’s XT2 camera is weatherproof so you can place it anywhere outdoors (as far as within the Wi-Fi range). The one I’m testing has survived more than 100 degree days, snow, hail and regular old storms. A gust of wind threw it from the deck on the second floor of the CNET Smart Home – and it was fine.
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Look at that:
How to choose the right outdoor surveillance camera for you
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