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outdoor security cameras
Indoor and <anchor>outdoor security cameras</anchor> let you monitor activity in and around your home, relying on sensors to detect and capture video of motion and sound events. Some indoor cameras use motorized components to provide a 360-degree view of a room, plus offer the option to store recordings both locally and in the cloud. Outdoor cameras are built to withstand the elements, and some come equipped with floodlights for illuminating driveways and backyards, but be prepared to deal with wiring. Or, you can go with a wireless outdoor camera, which is much easier to install.
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# The Best Outdoor Home Security Cameras for 2024

The top smart outdoor security cams we've tested can withstand the elements and record clear footage any time of the day or night.

By
John R. Delaney

John R. Delaney

Contributing Editor

My Experience

I’ve been working with computers for ages, starting with a multi-year stint in purchasing for a major IBM reseller in New York City before eventually landing at PCMag (back when it was still in print as PC Magazine). I spent more than 14 years on staff, most recently as the director of operations for PC Labs, before hitting the freelance circuit as a contributing editor.

Updated
July 10, 2024

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## Table of Contents

Table of ContentsTable of ContentsBest 2K Wired CameraBest 2K Wireless CameraBest Battery LifeBest for Cellular ConnectivityBest for 4K ResolutionBest for Solar ChargingEasiest to InstallBest Motion DetectionBest for Alexa UsersBest for Google Home UsersHow Do Outdoor Security Cameras Work?What Type of Weather Can Outdoor Security Cameras Handle?What Resolution Should an Outdoor Security Camera Have?Can Outdoor Security Cameras Detect Motion and Sound?How Do Security Cameras Store Video?What Else Do Outdoor Security Cameras Work With?How Much Should You Spend on an Outdoor Security Camera?Compare Specs: Our Picks Side by Side

No matter where you live, you should consider investing in a home security camera. PCMag has been reviewing dedicated outdoor security cameras for nearly 15 years. We test and review dozens each year to assess their ease of setup and use, video and audio quality, and value, among other factors, to help you select the best security camera for your needs and budget. Offering sharp video, local storage, and free intelligent alerts for less than $40, the TP-Link Tapo C120 tops our list below for its tremendous value, excellent performance, and versatility. But we also offer plenty of alternatives with features like mechanical pan and tilt support, cellular connectivity, and solar charging. If you want a model specifically for keeping tabs on what goes on inside your home, head over to our picks for the best indoor home security cameras.

## Our Top Tested Picks

![TP-Link Tapo Indoor/Outdoor Home Security Wi-Fi Camera C120](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg' viewBox='0 0 120 68'%3E%3Crect fill='%23f7f7f7' /%3E%3C/svg%3E)

Best 2K Wired Camera

### TP-Link Tapo Indoor/Outdoor Home Security Wi-Fi Camera C120

Jump To
Details

![The TP-Link Tapo Wire-Free MagCam](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg' viewBox='0 0 120 68'%3E%3Crect fill='%23f7f7f7' /%3E%3C/svg%3E)

Best 2K Wireless Camera

### TP-Link Tapo Wire-Free MagCam

Jump To
Details

![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg' viewBox='0 0 120 68'%3E%3Crect fill='%23f7f7f7' /%3E%3C/svg%3E)

Best Battery Life

### Arlo Essential XL (2nd Generation)

Jump To
Details

![Best for Cellular Connectivity](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg' viewBox='0 0 120 68'%3E%3Crect fill='%23f7f7f7' /%3E%3C/svg%3E)

Best for Cellular Connectivity

### Arlo Go 2 LTE/Wi-Fi Security Camera

Jump To
Details

![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg' viewBox='0 0 120 68'%3E%3Crect fill='%23f7f7f7' /%3E%3C/svg%3E)

Best for 4K Resolution

### EufyCam 3 S330

Jump To
Details

![Eufy SoloCam S340 Wireless Outdoor Security Camera](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg' viewBox='0 0 120 68'%3E%3Crect fill='%23f7f7f7' /%3E%3C/svg%3E)

Best for Solar Charging

### Eufy SoloCam S340 Wireless Outdoor Security Camera

Jump To
Details

![Ring Stick Up Cam Battery](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg' viewBox='0 0 120 68'%3E%3Crect fill='%23f7f7f7' /%3E%3C/svg%3E)

Easiest to Install

### Ring Stick Up Cam Battery

Jump To
Details

![Ring Stick Up Cam Pro (Battery) ](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg' viewBox='0 0 120 68'%3E%3Crect fill='%23f7f7f7' /%3E%3C/svg%3E)

Best Motion Detection

### Ring Stick Up Cam Pro

Jump To
Details

![Blink Outdoor 4](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg' viewBox='0 0 120 68'%3E%3Crect fill='%23f7f7f7' /%3E%3C/svg%3E)

Best for Alexa Users

### Blink Outdoor 4

Jump To
Details

![Best Intelligent Alerts](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg' viewBox='0 0 120 68'%3E%3Crect fill='%23f7f7f7' /%3E%3C/svg%3E)

Best for Google Home Users

### Google Nest Cam (Outdoor or Indoor, Battery)

Jump To
Details

### The Best Outdoor Home Security Camera Deals This Week*

*Deals are selected by our commerce team

Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks

![TP-Link Tapo Indoor/Outdoor Home Security Wi-Fi Camera C120](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg' viewBox='0 0 320 180'%3E%3Crect fill='%23f7f7f7' /%3E%3C/svg%3E)

## Best 2K Wired Camera

### TP-Link Tapo Indoor/Outdoor Home Security Wi-Fi Camera C120

4.5 Outstanding

### Pros & Cons

- Sharp 2K video

- Weatherproof design

- Built-in spotlights

- Intelligent motion detection

- Color night vision

- Local and cloud storage options

- Supports voice control

- Doesn't support HomeKit

- Didn't work with IFTTT in testing

### Why We Picked It

For just $40, the TP-Link Tapo C120 is loaded with features usually only found on more expensive models, including 2K resolution (2,560 by 1,440 pixels), color night vision, and local video storage. The camera records video when it detects motion and offers free intelligent alerts that differentiate between people, pets, vehicles, and other motion events, a feature many competitors charge extra for.

### Who It's For

If you’re in the market for a 2K security camera for indoor or outdoor use but don’t want to spend a bundle, the TP-Link Tapo C120 deserves a spot on your shortlist. It requires a nearby GFCI outlet for power but saves you a lot of money compared with wireless 2K alternatives.

### Specs & Configurations

Connectivity
Wi-Fi

Integrations
Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant

Field of View
120 degrees

Resolution
2K

Storage
Cloud, Local

Two-Way Audio

Mechanical Pan/Tilt

Night Vision

Alarm

GET IT NOW

Learn More

![The TP-Link Tapo Wire-Free MagCam](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg' viewBox='0 0 320 180'%3E%3Crect fill='%23f7f7f7' /%3E%3C/svg%3E)

## Best 2K Wireless Camera

### TP-Link Tapo Wire-Free MagCam

4.5 Outstanding

### Pros & Cons

- Sharp 2K video

- Color night vision

- Built-in spotlights

- Local and cloud recording

- Long battery life

- Free intelligent alerts

- Works with Alexa, Google Assistant, and IFTTT

- Doesn't support HomeKit

### Why We Picked It

The TP-Link Tapo Wire-Free MagCam is a wireless 2K outdoor camera that is easy to install and packed with features, including a rechargeable battery that can last close to a year between charges. It delivered crisp video in testing and works with plenty of third party devices. Typically available for less than $100, it’s an excellent value for a battery-powered camera that offers so many features including color night vision, built-in spotlights, local and cloud storage options, free intelligent alerts, and voice control.

### Who It's For

If you're in the market for an affordable wireless security camera with long battery life and 2K resolution, the TP-Link Tapo Wire-Free MagCam is a top pick. The Arlo Essential XL is a strong alternative with slightly longer battery life, but it costs more for 2K resolution, has a narrower field of view, and lacks local storage support.

### Specs & Configurations

Connectivity
Wi-Fi

Integrations
Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT

Field of View
150 degrees

Resolution
2K

Storage
Cloud, Local

Two-Way Audio

Mechanical Pan/Tilt

Night Vision

Alarm

GET IT NOW

Learn More

![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg' viewBox='0 0 320 180'%3E%3Crect fill='%23f7f7f7' /%3E%3C/svg%3E)

## Best Battery Life

### Arlo Essential XL (2nd Generation)

4.0 Excellent

### Pros & Cons

- Good image quality

- Long battery life

- Works with Alexa and Google voice commands

- Strong third-party device support

- Color night vision

- Built-in spotlight and siren

- Intelligent motion alerts

- Access to recorded video requires a subscription

- Doesn't support Apple HomeKit

### Why We Picked It

The Arlo Essential XL Outdoor is a wireless outdoor security camera that delivers sharp 1080p or 2K video depending on the model you choose, and lots of features, including color night vision, voice control, and ample third-party integrations for a relatively affordable price. It's powered by a built-in (non-removable) battery rated to last up to 16 months between charges depending on Wi-Fi signal strength and overall usage. In comparison, most wireless competitors last anywhere from six months to a year between charges.

### Who It's For

If you're in search of a feature-rich outdoor security camera that's easy to install, this is a top pick. You’ll have to pay extra to access recorded video, but the same is true for its closest competitor, the Ring Stick Up Cam Battery. Ring charges a bit less for cloud storage, but the Essential XL is a better option if you prioritize long battery life and/or Google Assistant support. As another long-lasting alternative, the Blink Outdoor 4 runs on two AA batteries and promises up to two years of power.

### Specs & Configurations

Connectivity
Wi-Fi

Integrations
Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT

Field of View
130 degrees

Resolution
1080p

Storage
Cloud

Two-Way Audio

Mechanical Pan/Tilt

Night Vision

Alarm

GET IT NOW

Learn More

![Arlo Go 2 LTE/Wi-Fi Security Camera](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg' viewBox='0 0 320 180'%3E%3Crect fill='%23f7f7f7' /%3E%3C/svg%3E)

## Best for Cellular Connectivity

### Arlo Go 2 LTE/Wi-Fi Security Camera

4.0 Excellent

### Pros & Cons

- Completely wire-free

- Easy installation

- Sharp 1080p video with color night vision

- Local and cloud storage options with intelligent alerts

- Uses both Wi-Fi and cellular connectivity

- Works with Alexa, Google, and IFTTT

- Some features require a subscription

- Doesn't support Apple HomeKit

### Why We Picked It

Although it isn't cheap, the Arlo Go 2 earns our Editors’ Choice award for its easy wire-free installation, excellent 1080p video quality, and ability to connect from just about anywhere using either a cellular or Wi-Fi radio. A premium price means premium features including support for voice commands, lots of third-party integrations, intelligent alerts, a built-in spotlight, and color night vision.

### Who It’s For

If you need to monitor a cabin, a boat, or a worksite where there is no electricity or Wi-Fi, this is the camera for you. It installs in minutes and uses a cellular radio to connect to your phone, thus allowing you to view live and recorded video or dial 911 if necessary. It can also use a Wi-Fi connection when one is available, provides long battery life with an option for charging via a solar panel, and can store recordings locally or in the cloud.

### Specs & Configurations

Connectivity
Wi-Fi, Cellular

Integrations
Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT

Field of View
130 degrees

Resolution
1080p

Storage
Cloud, Local

Two-Way Audio

Mechanical Pan/Tilt

Night Vision

Alarm

GET IT NOW

Learn More

![EufyCam 3 S330](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg' viewBox='0 0 320 180'%3E%3Crect fill='%23f7f7f7' /%3E%3C/svg%3E)

## Best for 4K Resolution

### EufyCam 3 S330

4.0 Excellent

### Pros & Cons

- Sharp 4K video

- Embedded solar charging panels

- Color night vision

- Face recognition

- Cloud and local video storage options

- Built-in spotlight

- Easy, cable-free installation

- Expensive

- Does not support HomeKit or IFTTT

### Why We Picked It

The Eufy Cam 3 S330 offers all of the features we expect from a high-end model including color night vision, face recognition, cloud and local storage, and an integrated spotlight. You don't get IFTTT or HomeKit support, but built-in solar charging panels are a major plus. Eufy also conveniently sells the camera in packs of two, three, or four, with an increasingly lower per-device cost the more you buy.

### Who It’s For

If you need to record people, pets, and vehicles on or around your property in high resolution, the Eufy Cam 3 S330 is a top choice. And its solar charging panel means you can place it wherever you want without worrying about having to take it down to recharge the battery.

### Specs & Configurations

Connectivity
Wi-Fi

Integrations
Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant

Field of View
135 degrees

Resolution
4K

Storage
Cloud, Local

Two-Way Audio

Mechanical Pan/Tilt

Night Vision

Alarm

GET IT NOW

Learn More

![Eufy SoloCam S340 Wireless Outdoor Security Camera](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg' viewBox='0 0 320 180'%3E%3Crect fill='%23f7f7f7' /%3E%3C/svg%3E)

## Best for Solar Charging

### Eufy SoloCam S340 Wireless Outdoor Security Camera

4.0 Excellent

### Pros & Cons

- Sharp 3K resolution

- Dual camera lenses

- Color night vision

- Battery and solar power

- Local video storage

- Mechanical pan and tilt

- Voice control

- Built-in spotlight

- Pricey

- Does not support Apple HomeKit, IFTTT, or Matter

### Why We Picked It

The Eufy SoloCam S340 is a unique outdoor home security camera that is equipped with two high-resolution lenses, one for wide-angle viewing and the other for telephoto zooming. It runs on battery power, which makes it very easy to install, and it comes with a small solar panel to stay powered indefinitely. While on the pricey side, the SoloCam S340 offers a lot of bang for your buck, including sharper video than similarly priced competitors, free local storage, and mechanical pan and tilt capabilities.

### Who It's For

If you have a sunny spot you're looking to monitor, this is a top choice that doesn't require a GFCI outlet or manual battery charges for power. If you need to keep an eye on multiple areas, however, it's worth upgrading to the solar-equipped EufyCam 3 S330, which comes with up to four cameras, delivers even sharper 4K video, and includes a hub for expandable local video storage.

### Specs & Configurations

Connectivity
Wi-Fi

Integrations
Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant

Field of View
135 degrees

Resolution
3K

Storage
Local

Two-Way Audio

Mechanical Pan/Tilt

Night Vision

Alarm

GET IT NOW

Learn More

![Ring Stick Up Cam Battery](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg' viewBox='0 0 320 180'%3E%3Crect fill='%23f7f7f7' /%3E%3C/svg%3E)

## Easiest to Install

### Ring Stick Up Cam Battery

4.0 Excellent

### Pros & Cons

- Completely wire-free

- Sharp 1080p video

- Works with Alexa voice commands and IFTTT

- Motion detection

- No hub required

- Built-in siren

- Easy to install

- Expensive

- Recorded video requires cloud subscription

### Why We Picked It

The Ring Stick Up Cam Battery is a battery-powered indoor and outdoor security camera that is easy to install and works with lots of third-party smart devices as well as other Ring products. We like its sharp 1080p video quality, accurate motion detection alerts, and long battery life, but would love for Ring to add a local storage option.

### Who It’s For

A painless installation process makes this camera a solid choice if you don’t want to deal with wires or drilling. Simply charge it, pair it with the app, and place it anywhere you want, inside or outside. An optional solar panel extends the battery life indefinitely. You have to subscribe to a Ring Protect plan to access video recordings, but the $40-per-year fee is fairly reasonable considering you get 180 days of video history, person alerts, and rich notifications.

### Specs & Configurations

Connectivity
Wi-Fi

Integrations
IFTTT

Field of View
130 degrees

Resolution
1080p

Storage
Cloud

Two-Way Audio

Mechanical Pan/Tilt

Night Vision

Alarm

GET IT NOW

Learn More

![Ring Stick Up Cam Pro (Battery) ](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg' viewBox='0 0 320 180'%3E%3Crect fill='%23f7f7f7' /%3E%3C/svg%3E)

## Best Motion Detection

### Ring Stick Up Cam Pro

4.0 Excellent

### Pros & Cons

- Wireless, wired, or solar-charging options

- Sharp video

- Color night vision

- 3D motion detection

- Bird’s Eye view

- Dual-band Wi-Fi

- Pricey

- Access to recorded video requires a subscription

### Why We Picked It

The Ring Stick Up Cam Pro is pricier than the standard Stick Up Cam, but offers a lot more bang for your buck with features such as HDR video, color pre-roll footage, 3D motion detection, and dual-band Wi-Fi. 3D motion detection uses radar to detect the distance of an object for improved accuracy and fewer false alerts compared with the standard camera. This technology also powers a bird’s eye aerial view feature, which lets you see where visitors to your home have traveled while on your property.

### Who It's For

This is a top option for anyone in the market for a versatile 1080p indoor or outdoor security camera with advanced motion detection. It offers wireless, wired, and solar-charging options, and works with both 5GHz and 2.5GHz Wi-Fi networks (whereas many security cameras including the non-Pro Stick Up Cam only support 2.4GHz). Just be aware that like all other Ring devices, it doesn’t include native support for Apple HomeKit or Google Assistant. Also know that the Stick Up Cam Pro doesn't have an integrated light, which might be a drawback if you plan to use it outdoors.

### Specs & Configurations

Connectivity
Wi-Fi, Bluetooth

Integrations
Amazon Alexa, IFTTT

Field of View
155 degrees

Resolution
1080p

Storage
Cloud

Two-Way Audio

Mechanical Pan/Tilt

Night Vision

Alarm

GET IT NOW

Learn More

![Blink Outdoor 4](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg' viewBox='0 0 320 180'%3E%3Crect fill='%23f7f7f7' /%3E%3C/svg%3E)

## Best for Alexa Users

### Blink Outdoor 4

4.0 Excellent

### Pros & Cons

- Easy, wire-free installation

- Person detection (with a subscription)

- Sharp 1080p video

- Long battery life

- Local and cloud video storage options

- Works with Amazon Alexa, IFTTT

- Doesn't support Apple HomeKit or Google Assistant

- Some features paywalled

- Requires a hub (included)

### Why We Picked It

Thanks to its particularly wide field of view, the wireless Blink Outdoor 4 can help you keep tabs on everything that happens around the perimeter of your home. Highlights of the camera include a 1080p recording resolution, person detection (via subscription), cloud and local video storage, and an extensive battery runtime of up to two years. Alexa and IFTTT support make it quite versatile, as well.

### Who It's For

If you already rely on Alexa to control your smart home, the affordable Blink Outdoor 4 should fit right into your system. It responds to voice commands reliably and conveniently uses the same app as any other Blink devices you might own.

### Specs & Configurations

Connectivity
Wi-Fi

Integrations
Amazon Alexa, IFTTT

Field of View
143 degrees

Resolution
1080p

Storage
Cloud, Local

Two-Way Audio

Mechanical Pan/Tilt

Night Vision

Alarm

GET IT NOW

Learn More

![Google Nest Cam (Outdoor or Indoor, Battery)](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg' viewBox='0 0 320 180'%3E%3Crect fill='%23f7f7f7' /%3E%3C/svg%3E)

## Best for Google Home Users

### Google Nest Cam (Outdoor or Indoor, Battery)

4.0 Excellent

### Pros & Cons

- Easy to install (no wires)

- Weatherproof

- Intelligent alerts

- Dual-band Wi-Fi

- Works with Google Assistant

- Face recognition

- Expensive

- Doesn't support Alexa, HomeKit, or IFTTT

- Some features require a subscription

### Why We Picked It

A rugged indoor and outdoor camera, the Google Nest Cam packs a useful selection of smart features to help you keep tabs on your home. In addition to sharp 1080p HDR video, it offers face recognition, dual-band Wi-Fi, and intelligent alerts that know the difference between people, animals, and vehicles. It also sends alerts when it hears the sound of a smoke alarm, carbon monoxide detector, or breaking glass.

### Who It’s For

The battery-powered Google Nest Cam is a good fit for people who want a wire-free outdoor camera that installs quickly. It doesn’t work with many third-party devices, but it integrates seamlessly with other Google and Nest devices, responds to Google Assistant voice commands, and can stream video to a Google Nest display.

### Specs & Configurations

Connectivity
Bluetooth, Wi-Fi

Integrations
Google Assistant

Field of View
130 degrees

Resolution
1080p

Storage
Cloud

Two-Way Audio

Mechanical Pan/Tilt

Night Vision

Alarm

GET IT NOW

Learn More

Buying Guide: The Best Outdoor Home Security Cameras for 2024

## How Do Outdoor Security Cameras Work?

Most smart outdoor security cameras use an embedded Wi-Fi radio to connect to your home network, enabling you to access them from anywhere via a mobile app. Some models use Ethernet, Bluetooth, Z-Wave, or a proprietary wireless technology to connect to a mobile app or a dedicated hub.

Wi-Fi cameras are simpler to install than their wired counterparts because you don't have to place them near an Ethernet port or run any wiring. Battery-powered Wi-Fi cameras are the easiest to install because you can put them just about anywhere (as long as they can connect to your network) without having to snake a power cable around your home to plug into an outlet. These types of cameras typically use batteries that you can easily pop out and recharge with a USB cable, but they tend to drain quickly in colder weather. Bluetooth cameras are also simple to install, but you have to stay within 30 feet or so to connect to them via your phone.

Look for an outdoor Wi-Fi camera that can connect to either the 2.4GHz or 5GHz radio band to alleviate network congestion. If you have trouble getting a good signal outside, try boosting it with a wireless range extender.

Google Nest Cam (Outdoor or Indoor, Battery)

Google Nest Cam (Outdoor or Indoor, Battery) (Credit: Google)

## What Type of Weather Can Outdoor Security Cameras Handle?

Any outdoor camera worth its salt must be able to withstand exposure to the elements and should carry an Ingress Protection (IP) rating. IP ratings contain two digits that tell you just how well the camera holds up under most weather conditions. The first digit following the IP prefix tells you how resistant the camera is to the ingress of solid objects such as wind-blown dust and ranges from 0 (no protection) to 6 (total protection against dust and dirt). The second describes how resistant the camera is to moisture and ranges from 0 (no protection) to 9 (protected against close-range, high-pressure sprays from all angles).

TP-Link Tapo Wire-Free MagCam

TP-Link Tapo Wire-Free MagCam (Credit: TP-Link)

Most outdoor security cameras have at least an IP66 rating, which means they offer complete protection from dust ingress and can handle water jets from any direction. Although you shouldn't submerge them in water, they are typically safe from blowing rain, snow, and sleet.

## What Resolution Should an Outdoor Security Camera Have?

An outdoor security camera isn't very useful if you can't recognize who or what the camera captures. A 1080p video camera offers more detail than a 720p camera and is the most popular resolution for these devices; 1080p recordings don't require a lot of storage and are viewable on nearly every phone, tablet, and PC.

Cameras that capture 4K (Ultra HD) or 2K video are also available, but you need a strong network connection to stream such high-res video without choppiness or lag, plus lots of room to store recordings; that last requirement may add significantly to the cost for cloud storage fees.

No matter the resolution, try to choose a camera with a relatively wide field of view and make sure it can capture clear night-vision video. Most cameras use IR (infrared) LEDs to deliver black-and-white night video, but a few use white light to deliver full-color night video. Look for a camera with a night vision range of at least 30 feet.

## Can Outdoor Security Cameras Detect Motion and Sound?

Nearly all outdoor security cameras feature a sensor that triggers the camera to record video when it detects motion. Most can also send a push alert to your phone (or an email) when the activity occurs. For an extra layer of security, look for a camera that can detect sound; these cameras can alert you if somebody is out there even if they're out of range of the camera lens and the motion sensor. Fair warning: You probably have to tweak the sound sensitivity settings to avoid alerts from barking dogs, loud cars, and other random noises.

Some security cameras include a floodlight that can automatically light up driveways, pools, and other parts of your property when they detect motion. These devices are much brighter than so-called spotlight models. You can read about them in our separate roundup of the best floodlight cameras.

If the camera has a microphone for sound detection, it likely has a two-way audio system that lets you speak with (and listen to) whoever is outside. This is useful for dealing with annoying solicitors as well as scaring off porch pirates and other unwanted visitors. For more ways to see and communicate directly with the person at your door, check out our list of the best video doorbells.

## How Do Security Cameras Store Video?

Cameras store video recordings in several ways. Many offer free cloud storage for a limited number of days (typically seven) before it is overwritten or deleted, while others are strictly subscription-based. If you require more than a week's worth of video storage, you can subscribe to a 30-day plan to avoid worrying about losing important footage before you get to review and download it.

If you're concerned about privacy and would rather not store your video in the cloud, look for a camera that offers a local storage option via a microSD card slot. A few cameras let you save video recordings to a portable USB or NAS drive, but these devices are rare.

And if you want the ability to go back and see everything, look for a camera that offers a CVR (Continuous Video Recording) plan. With this option, the camera records continuously and stores up to 30 days of 24/7 video in the cloud.

## What Else Do Outdoor Security Cameras Work With?

Many outdoor cameras do more than just record video and send alerts; they also integrate with other smart devices. Many recent outdoor Wi-Fi cameras support IFTTT, an internet service that lets you create applets that link the camera with other IFTTT-enabled devices. For example, you can configure a smart plug to turn on a lamp indoors or activate an external siren when the camera detects motion.

### Recommended by Our Editors

Support for Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant voice commands is also increasingly common. These integrations allow you to, for example, display video from the camera on a compatible smart display. If you have a home automation hub, look for a camera that works with your existing setup. That way you can integrate your security camera with even more smart devices like door locks.

We haven't seen any that run on the Matter platform yet, but that's surely going to happen at some point.

## How Much Should You Spend on an Outdoor Security Camera?

Outdoor security cameras are generally more expensive than their indoor counterparts. Depending on their features, they can range from around $50 up to a few hundred dollars or more. Plenty of affordable cameras offer good video performance, but, as with just about any smart device, you typically pay more for features such as motion-tracking, facial recognition, cellular connectivity, time-lapse recording, pan and tilt controls, additional storage options, and rechargeable battery power.

Smart home device maker Wyze is known for its affordable home security cameras, but we no longer recommend them following a series of security breaches that exposed users' camera feeds.

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## Compare SpecsThe Best Outdoor Home Security Cameras for 2024

Our Picks

Editors'Rating

Editors' Choice

Editors' Choice

Editors' Choice

Editors' Choice

Editors' Choice

Editors' Choice

Editors' Choice

Editors' Choice

Connectivity

Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi, Cellular

Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi, Bluetooth

Wi-Fi

Bluetooth, Wi-Fi

Integrations

Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant

Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT

Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT

Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT

Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant

Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant

IFTTT

Amazon Alexa, IFTTT

Amazon Alexa, IFTTT

Google Assistant

Field of View

120 degrees

150 degrees

130 degrees

130 degrees

135 degrees

135 degrees

130 degrees

155 degrees

143 degrees

130 degrees

Resolution

2K

2K

1080p

1080p

4K

3K

1080p

1080p

1080p

1080p

Storage

Cloud, Local

Cloud, Local

Cloud

Cloud, Local

Cloud, Local

Local

Cloud

Cloud

Cloud, Local

Cloud

Two-Way Audio

Mechanical Pan/Tilt

Night Vision

Alarm

Where to Buy

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### About John R. Delaney

#### Contributing Editor

John R. Delaney

I’ve been working with computers for ages, starting with a multi-year stint in purchasing for a major IBM reseller in New York City before eventually landing at PCMag (back when it was still in print as PC Magazine). I spent more than 14 years on staff, most recently as the director of operations for PC Labs, before hitting the freelance circuit as a contributing editor.

#### Read the latest from John R. Delaney

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