Home security has never been more important, and with the rise of smart cameras, keeping an eye on your home has become easier than ever. Whether you’re looking for indoor surveillance, outdoor monitoring, or both, the right home security camera can provide peace of mind by offering real-time alerts, video footage, and advanced features like motion detection. Here’s a look at some of the best home security cameras of 2024, including one that doesn’t require a subscription.
Quick List
- Arlo Pro 5S 2K
- Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Pro
- Lorex Security Camera
- EufyCam 3 (Without Subscription)
- Google Nest Cam (Battery)
Arlo Pro 5S 2K
The Arlo Pro 5S 2K is a top-of-the-line option for those seeking advanced features and great video quality. With 2K HDR video resolution, it offers crystal-clear footage, even in low light conditions. The camera has a wide 160-degree field of view and comes equipped with color night vision, making it an excellent choice for both indoor and outdoor use.
Key Features:
- 2K video resolution with HDR
- Smart AI detection for people, packages, and animals
- Built-in spotlight and siren
- Two-way audio
- Weather-resistant design
- Works with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit
Though Arlo offers cloud storage plans, users can opt for local storage via a USB drive connected to the Arlo SmartHub, which helps bypass subscription fees.
Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Pro
The Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Pro combines the utility of a floodlight with the security of a camera, making it an excellent choice for outdoor monitoring. It provides 1080p video, motion detection, and a built-in 105dB siren to scare off intruders.
Key Features:
- 1080p HD video with HDR
- Dual motion-activated floodlights
- 3D motion detection and bird’s-eye view
- Built-in siren
- Two-way talk with noise cancellation
- Works with Alexa
The downside is that, while the camera itself is excellent, Ring’s cloud storage plans are needed for longer video history and additional features, which could add up over time. However, you can still get live view, motion alerts, and two-way talk without a subscription.
EufyCam 3
For those looking for a reliable home security camera without the hassle of a subscription, the EufyCam 3 is a standout option. This system offers 4K resolution and includes a home base station that stores video footage locally, eliminating the need for cloud storage and subscription fees. The EufyCam 3 is perfect for people who prioritize privacy and don’t want to rely on cloud services for video storage.
Key Features:
- 4K ultra-HD video resolution
- 365-day battery life
- Built-in AI for face and body detection
- Local storage via HomeBase 3 (expandable with a hard drive)
- Weatherproof for outdoor use
With no monthly fees for storage, this cam saves money while providing all the essential security features, including human detection and smart alerts. Its built-in spotlight and color night vision add to the security experience, ensuring you’re protected day and night.
Lorex Fusion 4K Metal Bullet Camera
The Lorex Fusion 4K Metal Bullet Camera is a premium outdoor security camera designed for users seeking superior video clarity and robust build quality. With its 4K Ultra HD resolution, this camera delivers sharp, detailed footage, making it easy to capture facial features, license plates, and other crucial details from a distance.
Key Features:
- 4K Ultra HD Video: Exceptional clarity and detail, even in zoomed-in footage.
- Smart Motion Detection: Recognizes and alerts you based on people and vehicles, reducing false notifications.
- Color Night Vision: Provides colored footage at night for enhanced security visibility in low-light conditions.
- Weatherproof Design (IP67): Built to withstand tough weather conditions, from rain to snow.
- Two-Way Audio: Enables real-time communication with visitors or potential intruders via the built-in microphone and speaker.
- Fusion Compatibility: Allows you to pair the camera with other Lorex Fusion-enabled devices for a fully integrated smart security system.
The Lorex Fusion 4K is ideal for users who prioritize high-resolution video, intelligent motion detection, and durability in extreme weather without ongoing subscription fees.
Google Nest Cam
Battery
Google’s Nest Cam (Battery) is a highly versatile, wire-free security camera perfect for both indoor and outdoor use. It features advanced motion detection, differentiating between people, animals, and vehicles to minimize false alarms. The 1080p HD resolution and 130-degree field of view ensure you capture clear footage of activity around your home.
Key Features:
- 1080p HD video
- 24/7 live view with HDR
- Free 3-hour event video history
- Intelligent alerts (people, animals, vehicles)
- Works with Google Assistant
While the Nest Aware subscription unlocks more advanced features like continuous video recording, the camera offers a free 3-hour event history, meaning you can view and save short clips without a subscription. This is ideal if you only need minimal coverage or don’t want ongoing fees.