Do you want to keep watch on your home or business premise whenever you are away? Monitor events on and around your property with the best outdoor security cameras.
When it comes to securing one’s home or property, presence and vigilance are key. You really need to be on the look-out if you are to keep the bad guys away. And how do you do that? Install high performance outdoor security cameras. These should be able to provide you with real time updates about the events around your property.
The market is currently awash with many security camera brands. It is highly possible that one would get confused or worse still, settle for low quality cameras.
To help you out, we have provided some details about some of the best outdoor security cameras that we believe will be of help to you when it comes to selecting a security camera.
Before that however, it is important to note that the varieties differ in terms of nature of videos recorded, weatherproof design and real time security status alerts.
Below is a quick review of some of the best outdoor security cameras with their viewing angles and videos qualities. This is but a sneak peak of what we are going to provide extra details about.
Nest Cam Outdoor Security Camera 1080p Full HD 130 degrees
Arlo Pro 720p HD 130 degrees
Canary All-in-One Indoor Security Camera 1080p Full HD 147 degrees
Ring Floodlight Camera 1080p Full HD 120 degrees
Swann Bullet Camera 1080p Full HD 102 degrees
Reolink Argus 2 Wireless Security Camera 1080p Full HD 130 degrees
Wyze Cam Pan 1080p Full HD 150 degrees
Lorex Security Camera 4k Video 112 degrees
Amazon Cloud Cam 720p HD 120 degrees
YI Dome Camera 1080p Full HD 115 degrees
What is an Outdoor Security Camera?
Well, I know this might sound repetitive. I will twist it a little bit so that it doesn’t appear as such. Outdoor security cameras are like your third eye. They allow you to keep a watchful eye on property whenever you are away.
Therefore, they can scare away the bad guys or can be used to snare the bad guys. With the rising cases of burglary and other theft related incidents, these cameras give you an edge at identifying the bad guys and taking the necessary security measures to guard your home or property.
Do you need an Outdoor Security Camera?
The need for an outdoor security camera cannot be emphasized enough. In particular, individuals living in high end estates or those with business premises.
These are the perfect targets for burglars because they are often isolated or crowded. Therefore, they find it increasingly easy to find their way inside with minimal strain. If you have installed the outdoor security cameras though, you will be able to respond to such threats in real time and disrupt the evil schemes of the bad guys. So the be all end all of it is that you need an outdoor security camera for your business premise.
Outdoor security cameras can also be used to monitor employee behavior in a company setting. Some employees can be so cunning and witty. Some may breech the normal code of conduct. It is therefore important to keep a close watch of their behavior with your third eye. In the malls and megastores, these cameras can be used to entry and exit behavior of customers. Outdoor security cameras have many uses. Somehow you won’t miss a reason to have them installed at your premise.
Types of Outdoor Security Cameras
There are two major types of outdoor security cameras roaming around the market. The wired and wireless security cameras.
Wireless security cameras do not have a lot of hardware packed with them. This means that you will be able to install everything easily. The only setback in this type of security camera is that you need to check the batteries of it regularly since it does not have a permanent power source.
On the other hand, wired security cameras are a little bit complicated to install for the first time. You can’t just simply place it and then it works immediately. Sometimes, you might need professional help when installing a wired security camera.
There are additional categories of outdoor security cameras. Battery powered cameras draw their power from Li-ion batteries. They have a PIR motion sensor for detecting motion. 4G LTE is another category of security cameras. These ones are operated with the help of 4G LTE data and have a sim card for recording motion.PTZ CCTV cameras detect motion and are also equipped with automatic pan, tilt, and optical zoom functions.
Dome cameras comes with fixed lens and zoom lens functions for sharp image quality. As the name suggests, these cameras have dome shaped covers.Bullet cameras has a characteristic rifle bullet shape. They too have fixed lens and zoom lens functionality.
Depending on needs and expectations, one will choose on what befits them among the list of security camera types.
Factors to consider when buying an Outdoor Security Camera
There are some things that we need to consider when purchasing an outdoor security camera, here’s a list. These elements will depend greatly on your particular use of the security camera. Some of these considerations include.
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Night Vision
Since they usually are installed outside, they should be able to see things clearly in the dark. They are outdoors, which means they get to focus on things in the dark. You should look for outdoor security cameras that would reach as far as a hundred feet or more on its night vision capabilities.
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Video Quality
What’s the point of recording things when they just give you out bad video qualities? When an intruder comes, there could be some instances that you won’t be able to see them clearly, why? Because of bad camera quality. That’s why learning to look on the clearer ones.
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Mobile Device Control
Not all the time you will be situated at home or where the outdoor camera is. In times that you are far from it, just like in work, in vacation or in wherever you are, it is very important that you should be able to control your outdoor camera via your mobile device remotely.
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Price
You want to be sure the camera is affordable, though you shouldn’t compromise on quality for affordability reasons. All the same, a camera’s price tag says a lot about its power and capabilities, but not always.
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Power
This is particularly important for outdoor security cameras that are operated on Li-Ion batteries. You want to be sure it can record for much longer durations. As such, you’ve got to be sure the battery capacity can last long durations on a single charge.
The Best Outdoor Security Cameras for 2020 – Pros & Cons
<Best Overall>
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Nest Cam Outdoor Security Camera
An outdoor surveillance camera that is equipped with a live video and a very wide angle lens that is for a clear view of the surroundings and of your visitor. There is even an app for this so that you can monitor everything that is happening in the surroundings 24/7 using your own smartphone.
It is powerful and comes with infrared functionality for night vision. Nest Cam camera is capable of streaming live videos in real time. It is super sensitive to motion and suspicious sounds, thus keeping you and your property safe round the clock.
This camera even has an inbuilt microphone and speaker for communicating with suspicious visitors. It is powered by mains, so you won’t have to worry about charging your batteries time and again.
Installation process is very simple and direct, the perfect DIY type. There’s even a user manual to help you with same. It provides sharp image quality t a max range of 30 meters away. This makes it easy for you to monitor suspicious activity. Enjoy 24/7 safety and security around your property or home with Nest Cam outdoor security camera.
Why We Like It:
- Smartphone Nest app
- Huge video quality and field of view
- Built-in speakers
- Weather-resistant design
Why We Hate It:
- A little bit expensive
<Best Image Resolution>
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Arlo Pro wireless home security camera
Arlo integrates perfectly with Alexa for voice control. Note that the Alexa device is sold separately though.
This one is purely wireless, there are no cords or cables around it so this makes it a very versatile one. It will work in outdoors or in indoors. It even delivers a very clear picture during sunny days, under light areas and even in the dark. The installation process is so simple and easy.
This security cam is free of cords and cables. The 100% wire free design allows for easy installation and use. It has a wide view angle thus provides you with a wide area of view for security around the premise.
The night mode function is facilitated with 850nm LEDs capable of illuminating up to 25ft. it comes with an infrared cut off filter for crisp clear image detailing at night. It also features a 2-way audio system that features built in mic and speaker. These functions enable the push-to-talk function that allows you to listen in and talk back.
The Arlo Smart feature add substantial camera intelligence to your surveillance. This allows you toget customized security alerts, detect faces and contact the emergency responder right from your phone.
Why We Like It:
- Simple installation
- Smart home integration
- Pairs with Alexa and Google Assistant
- Inbuilt audio mic and speaker for listening in and talk back
- 100-decibel sound sensitivity level
Why We Hate It:
- Cloud recording function is sold separately.
<Best Motion Detection>
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Canary All-in-One Indoor Security Camera
Canary integrates seamlessly with Alexa for voice control. It is important to note that the Alexa device is sold separately however. This camera has a 147 degree wide angle lens for a wider field of view. You get to see more of your property so you can have a peaceful rest. Its super sensitive sound recording system records the faintest sounds.
The built in alarm system sets off whenever you switch in on remotely. With sound levels of 90+ decibels, this is sufficient to scare away any suspicious visitors. Some of the integrated sensors that come with this security camera include 3-axis accelerometer, ambient light, and capacitive touch. This security camera works with your home WiFi. That is to say that it will send you rel time alerts about the latest security developments in and around the home or business premise whenever you want. All the updates are available to you via a dedicated smartphone app.
Even it only has a small design, it is way beyond its capabilities. It has home security features around it and its environmental sensors are way past its abilities. It has a lot of security features packed around it to make it a real home insurance gadget that you should get inside your homes.
Get the security information you want when you want it. That is the guiding principle upon which the founders of Canary all-in one indoor security camera. If you are looking for a high performance outdoor security camera that will keep you safe round the clock, I strongly recommend this one.
Why We Like It:
- Alexa integration
- Direct connection to emergency services
- Built-in alarm system scares off likely intruders.
- Get updates to your smartphones
Why We Hate It:
- Limited to a 20-foot range for night vision
<Best Multidirectional Capture Modes>
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Ring Floodlight Security Camera
Ring flood comes in pairs for a wider field of view. A set of LED lights come in handy during the night for improved vision. Some varieties have integrated alarm response that can be set off remotely. A two way talk system works together with the integrated microphone and speaker for easy communication with the intruder.
An integrated smartphone app makes it easier to monitor the events around your home or business on your phone.
What’s more, it comes with an integrated Alexa connection that allows for voice control. It is powered by AAA batteries, something that eliminates the need for rechargeable Li-ion batteries. Though expensively priced, to me this is a very good piece to check out.
Why We Like It:
- Facial Detection
- Two LED floodlights
- 3000 lumen LED lights
- Simple design
Why We Hate It:
- Battery Powered
<Best Build Quality>
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Swann SWPRO-1080MSB-US Bullet Camera
For crystal clear night vision, this camera has the latest cut filter and powerful LEDs with a range of 15M. A state of the art Tru Detect PIR motion sensor designed for security applications has the capacity to detect human faces, and other moving heat generating objects.
This will help your home to become a smart home. Smart homes are safer, easier to access and more simple to attend to. It will work seamlessly with the Swann security systems if you have ever heard of it. It has a wide viewing angle, night vision that goes for up to 100 feet.
Swann Bullet camera has a very conspicuous and design that also works to deter likely intruders. At the same time, the white color easily blends with the surrounding. They are less likely to be seen by the intruder at night or during the day.The wide viewing angle provides an excellent view of all parts of the building.
The installation process is very simple and direct. Just a little screwing here and there and it should be ready and set for action. This is your ultimate DIY installation security camera.
Why We Like It:
- PIR motion sensor detects human faces, and other heat emitting moving objects.
- Easy Do It Yourself installation process
- Wide view angle for all round surveillance round the building
- 1080p Full HD video surveillance.
- Integrated Infrared Cut Filter for night vision
- The 100-decibel siren that’s loud and clear
- Rechargeable camera
Why We Hate It:
- DVR is required to operate the camera
- No mention of product warranty
<Best Viewing Angle and Audio Sensitivity>
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Reolink Argus 2 Wireless Security Camera
This works well even when you put it inside, meaning this is not just for the outside purposes. It has a starlight night vision that will clear out everything that the camera captures up to 36 feet without a single ambient light.
This outdoor security camera is also weatherproof. It is built to withstand weather extremes. Its weatherproof rating is IP65. Something else you really need to note is that all the videos footages are stored in the SD card. You can also choose to upload all the Reolink Cloud. There’s a Reolink app and PC client that allows you to get real time updates on the events around your home on your phone or PC. Lastly, this camera comes with multiple charging methods. The Li-ion battery can be charged using a 5v2A power adapter of Reolink solar panel.
Why We Like It:
- No base station
- Email and push notifications
- Rechargeable battery and solar panel powered
- Weatherproof and wire-free
Why We Hate It:
- Motion detection delays
- No web viewing capability
<Best Wi-Fi Enabled Security Camera>
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Wyze Cam Pan home camera
It has a wide field of view, 360 degree horizontal range and 93 degree vertical range. All this wide range is covered in less than 3 seconds. It comes with a Pan Scan feature that automatically scans surrounding on the basis of 4 waypoint settings.
It is a little Wi-Fi camera that can scan an entire room in just a matter of seconds. You can adjust the settings in the Pan Scan feature so that it would automatically scan the area depending on your specifications. The cam’s motion tracking is also powerful, it will track everything that moves.
All videos are in 1080p Full HD quality. Plus, this camera supports night vision. This is one aspect you will like because you will be able to capture details of suspicious suspects hovering close to your property. The integrated IR functionality makes it easy to distinguish up to 18 shades of gray. This is in fact what allows you to get crisp clear view even in pitch darkness wth this outdoor security cam.
It has a dedicated mobile application from where you get timely updates. Besides this, you will also get a chance to experience the very best 14-day free cloud storage. A 2 way microSD slot allows for attachment of memory card for storage if you don’t want to save on cloud.
As aforementioned, this camera works bets with 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi connectivity. The upload speeds for the same should be no less than 1.0Mbps for MicroSD and 1.5Mbps for hard disk storage.
Why We Like It:
- Affordable price
- Smart motion tracking
- Works with 2.4ghz Wi-Fi Networks
- 110degree/sec rotation speed
Why We Hate It:
- Wired Power Cord
- Rough motion tracking
<Best Night Vision>
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Lorex Security Camera
Why We Like It:
- 4K Ultra HD
- 8.51 MP sensor
- Color Night Vision
- 60m night vision range
Why We Hate It:
- Cat5 Internet cable
- Build quality
<Best Alexa Compatible Security Camera>
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Amazon Cloud Cam
Why We Like It:
- Compatibility with Alexa
- Viewing options for PC or Mobile Device
- Two-way audio
- Cloud Cam
Why We Hate It:
- Mediocre night vision
- Limited scheduling options
<Best Budget Outdoor Security Camera>
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YI Dome Camera
Why We Like It:
- Anti-noise filter for clear audio
- No cloud storage limit
- Real-time activity alerts
- Responsive microphone
Why We Hate It:
- Limited night vision range
- Difficult setup
How to pick the right Outdoor Security Camera for You?
You need to be careful when deciding to buy something that will be useful in terms of your security. Outdoor security cameras are very important as it will be recording everything that happens outside, where intruders will first arrive before invading your home.
For us, you need to have a look if it has a clear video quality recording, clear audio recording, wide field of view and a night vision. But you just have to (as always) take a look at your current budget. Don’t spend something too much and then you don’t know or realize how to use it.
Well, have fun choosing something that will make your home even better!