When searching for the finest outdoor security cameras of 2024, prioritising weather resistance, high-resolution footage, and effective night vision is crucial. Additionally, weighing your budget against potential subscription costs for premium features, such as cloud storage and person detection, is important.

Fortunately, there’s a diverse array of outdoor security cameras catering to various needs and budgets. Top-tier offerings like those from Ring or more budget-friendly options like Wyze provide ample choices, all highly rated and suitable for safeguarding your residence.

Interestingly, some top-notch outdoor security cameras also serve as floodlights, offering dual functionality. While several models boast wireless setups for hassle-free installation, a few require wired connections, ensuring uninterrupted monitoring.

Below is a curated list of the best outdoor security cameras of 2024. Each excels in its own right, tailored to specific preferences and financial constraints. Examining each closely will help determine the perfect fit for your home’s security needs.

Best Outdoor Security Camera

Arlo Pro 4

Price: $140

Pros

  • Sharp footage
  • No hub is required for set up

Cons

  • Specs are similar to its predecessor
  • The spotlight is required for colour night vision

The Arlo Pro 3 was a long-standing favourite for outdoor security cameras, but with the arrival of the Arlo Pro 4 and its new additions, it’s claimed the top spot. Retaining the impressive 2K video resolution and a wide 160-degree viewing angle from its predecessor, this model also boasts a weatherproof design with colour night vision, a built-in LED spotlight, and a siren for immediate danger alerts.

What sets this model apart is its independence from a hub to connect with your home’s Wi-Fi network, streamlining the setup process significantly. Even better, it not only matches the exceptional performance of the Arlo Pro 3 in securing your home but also arrives with a lower starting price. A single Arlo Pro 4 camera begins at $200, a significant drop from the Arlo Pro 3’s $500 for a 2K camera system.

Best Premium Outdoor Security Camera

Arlo Pro 5S 2K

Price: $160

Pros

  • Footage is in 2K
  • Impressive 160 degree field of view

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Similar to the Arlo Pro 4, which is cheaper

The Arlo Pro 5S 2K doesn’t compromise on features. Boasting a 2K video camera, expansive field of view, stylish design, and colour night vision, its performance stands among the best. However, this exceptional performance comes with a price tag, as the Arlo Pro 5S 2K is priced at $250.

While it’s one of the more expensive security cameras on the market, if cost isn’t a concern, it’s worth considering. Offering all the features of the esteemed Arlo Pro 4, it also introduces Dual-Band Wi-Fi for simplified setup, SecureLink Connectivity ensuring protection during power outages, and a Low Power Mode boosting battery life by 30%.

Although it remains closely aligned with its more affordable counterpart in many ways, it stands out as an excellent choice for those who are seeking the most advanced outdoor security camera out there.

Best Budget Outdoor Security Camera

Wyze Cam v3

Price: $31

Pros

  • Affordable
  • A lot of security controls

Cons

  • Has an integrated power cord

Night vision stands as a crucial aspect for any outdoor security camera, especially in scenarios like potential break-ins where darkness might conceal important details. Amongst these top camera selections, Wyze’s indoor/outdoor cam stands out, notably equipped with a Starlight Sensor. This feature enables full-colour nighttime video recording, enhancing visibility during low-light situations.

This wired camera embodies the smart functionalities characteristic of Wyze’s offerings. It integrates motion and sound sensors for alerts, customizable detection zones, adjustable sensitivity settings to optimise performance, and two-way audio capabilities for communication. Compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, it also syncs with IFTTT (If This Then That) for creating intricate routines based on camera alerts.

Despite its designation as an indoor/outdoor camera, it’s built to withstand various weather conditions with its IP65 resistance rating, ensuring durability against outdoor elements.

Best Wireless Outdoor Security Camera

Ring Spotlight Cam Pro

Price: $230

Pros

  • Two-way audio
  • Has an LED spotlight designed for effective lighting

Cons

  • You should get the Ring Protect plan

Amazon’s update to the Ring Spotlight Cam presents an appealing choice for those seeking ample illumination without opting for a full floodlight camera. The cam features powerful LED lights on both sides that can sync with motion detection, providing substantial brightness for porches, patios, or driveways.

The Spotlight Cam Pro encompasses a variety of features within its design, offering essentials such as 1080p video, night vision, and two-way audio. Beyond the basics, Ring includes additional functionalities like a controllable siren, advanced 3D motion detection, and a unique “Bird’s Eye” view option, providing a visual model of a subject’s potential path. Its battery-powered operation with an option to connect to an outlet adds to its versatility.

Similar to other Ring cameras, acquiring a Ring Protect plan becomes essential for video storage and sharing. Nevertheless, this wireless security cam stands out as one of the most comprehensive options available currently.

Best Floodlight Security Camera

Blink Wired Floodlight Camera

Price: $50

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Produces 2,600 lumens of brightness

Cons

  • Bulky design

Blink’s Wired Floodlight Camera emerges as a standout amongst its outdoor camera lineup, delivering impressive functionality at a wallet-friendly price. Despite its affordability, this new addition to the Blink family offers a robust set of features.

True to its name, the Wired Floodlight Camera isn’t solely an outdoor camera—it doubles as a high-powered floodlight, emitting a substantial 2,600 lumens of LED light. Equipped with motion detection, a wired connection ensuring constant power, and colour night vision, it delivers comprehensive performance. Its slightly bulkier design owes largely to the substantial floodlights positioned above the camera.

For those seeking an outdoor camera that’s both cost-effective and potent, with strikingly bright floodlights, Blink’s camera warrants serious consideration. However, if a more streamlined design is your preference, the Ring Spotlight Cam Pro, mentioned earlier, might be worth revisiting.

Best Indoor/Outdoor Security Camera

Ring Stick Up Cam Pro

Price: $180

Pros

  • Very easy installation process
  • 1080p that has HDR support

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Doesn’t have a privacy shutter

The Ring Stick Up Cam Pro commands a higher price, but its value justifies the investment. This versatile camera is designed for both indoor and outdoor use, offering exceptional flexibility. Its weatherproof construction ensures durability, while the camera boasts HDR video capabilities and records in 1080p. Additionally, it supports two-way audio and boasts a hassle-free wire-free setup.

One minor drawback is the absence of a built-in privacy shutter, which might concern indoor users. However, you can easily manage alerts and disarm the camera via the Ring smartphone app. This limitation might not affect outdoor installations significantly. A Ring subscription is recommended for accessing advanced features like cloud storage and smart alerts.

Despite these minor concerns, this indoor/outdoor camera impresses on many fronts. Users already invested in Ring products will appreciate its seamless integration into their smart home ecosystem. Newcomers to Ring will find its high-quality imagery, straightforward setup, and wide 155-degree viewing angle particularly appealing.

Final Words

When selecting the best outdoor security cameras in 2024, focusing on durability, features, and pricing is crucial. The market offers diverse options catering to various needs and budgets. Whether it’s the Arlo Pro 4’s affordability and robust features, the premium performance of the Arlo Pro 5S 2K, the budget-friendly Wyze Cam v3 with its innovative night vision, the versatile Ring Spotlight Cam Pro, the Blink Wired Floodlight Camera’s cost-effective brilliance, or the flexible Ring Stick Up Cam Pro, each camera brings unique strengths to the table.

From weatherproof designs to enhanced night vision and seamless integration into smart home ecosystems, these top picks offer a blend of functionality and reliability. With that being said you’ll need to reflect on your own individual preferences and requirements before being able to make the perfect choice  for safeguarding your own home in 2024. 

Leo Beamers is an aspiring car collector born and raised just outside of the city in Cape Town and his interests include gaming, fast cars and enjoys cycling on the weekends.

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