Best security camera system

A security camera system is a great way to be sure that your home and its contents and, most importantly, everyone who lives there all stay safe. The latest systems are easy to install solo, although some have a professional installation option. They’re sleek and smart, too, so they won’t compromise the appearance of your home's exterior. Find the system to suit your needs among our selection.

This security system is simple to install yourself; no professional assistance is necessary. There are no wires to worry about it because it’s battery-powered, and it promises to run for up to two years on two AA lithium batteries. I like the fact that the cameras are neat and discreet, so they won’t detract from your home’s kerb appeal while keeping it safer. There are three of them in this set, but additional quantity options are available to suit your home's size. Nighttime is covered thanks to infrared vision, and you can get motion detection alerts on your phone. Use this system with Alexa, and you’ll have the convenience of voice control.

Looking for a security camera system that’s as stylish as well as highly functional? This could be the design for you. The battery-operated two-camera kit has curvaceous lines and a white finish that makes it look contemporary. It doesn’t lack technologically either with night vision, a 135-degree field of view for good observation and the capability of discerning humans from passing cats to manage false alerts. You can also customise the detection zone to avoid being bothered by things you needn’t be. Up to three months of recordings can be stored, and this isn’t currently expandable.

If you keep a lot of valuable items in the garage, installing this security camera system is a good solution to keep the contents safe. It’s designed so you can fit it yourself, although getting in a professional to do the job is also an option. It works with selected Alexa devices to make launching video easy. You can also see, hear, and speak to anyone nearby from a phone, tablet, or PC. The siren can be operated from these devices, too, if you need to scare someone away. Be aware that you’ll need a separate plan if you want recording and photo capture. 

If you’re looking to get started with a security camera system at a low cost, check out this design. Rather than being battery-operated, the two cameras are wired, which will suit those who don’t want to change batteries. It’s still a system made for DIY installation, though, and you can do so either inside or outside your home, as the cameras are waterproof. There’s a free app for live viewing, playback, and recording. Bear in mind that although the system supports a hard disk drive, it isn’t included.

If you have a large home and garden, you might fall for this wired security camera system that comes with four cameras to monitor everything. There’s a hard drive with it, too, so you can make recordings. The free app lets you see your home from your smartphone, tablet, or computer, and you’ll get instant email alerts activated by motion. I like that you can set the detection area for these, so you can focus on doors and downstairs windows. Use it indoors, and you can block areas as necessary on each camera for privacy. 

If you just need a security camera system to use inside your home, check out this handy solution. It’s ideal as a baby monitor but can also monitor your pets while you’re at work or speak to kids when they come in from school. Use it hands-free with Alexa or Google Assistant if these are already part of your setup. It offers night vision, so you can check that all is well after lights-out, and there’s two-way audio so you can speak as well as hear. I like the way you can create activity zones, so you’re only alerted when you need to be.

Our verdict

Install a security camera system, and you can keep an eye on your home easily. Our number one choice is the Blink outdoor wireless security camera. It’s easy to install yourself, and it’s battery-powered, so there are no wires to worry about. Team it with Alexa, and you have voice control.

Looking for an option that will let you check on little ones or even the dog or cat? Opt for the TP-Link Kasa smart security camera that has two-way audio for staying in touch and night vision as well.

Why trust us?

At GardeningEtc, we recommend the best products to enhance your life. As expert curators, we handpick products based on quality and usefulness to positively impact your day-to-day, from cart to doorstep. We take our responsibility seriously – testing products, reading reviews, and sourcing knowledgeable outlets to ensure our selections are worthy of your time and money. We deliver detailed product overviews, balancing objective information with subjective opinions, so making the best choice for your home and lifestyle is as easy as possible.