If you are thinking about getting a little extra security going into the autumn and holiday season you are on the right track. We rounded up the Best Outdoor Security Cameras 2023. According to crresearch.com, in 2022, almost 1 in 7 (14%) Americans have fallen victim to porch pirates.
Outdoor Wi-Fi cameras allow you to check in on your home’s surroundings and entry points. You can set up alerts on your camera so that you know right when your package gets delivered. If you are not home often, you might even want to consider Keter Delivery Box for Porch with Lockable Secure Storage Compartment to Keep Packages Safe that is at Amazon and other stores.
What is an outdoor WiFi Security Camera?
An outdoor WiFi security camera is a wireless camera designed for outdoor use and connected to your home’s WiFi network. It comes with weatherproof housing to endure various weather conditions and is used to monitor your property for security purposes. Key features of these cameras include wireless connectivity, weatherproof design, motion detection, night vision, two-way audio, and cloud storage. When selecting one, factors to consider are video quality, field of view, battery life (if applicable), and price range.
The Best Wireless WiFi Outdoor Security Cameras
Based on our research and review, these are the best outdoor home security cameras on the market today.
1. Arlo Pro 4 Spotlight Security Camera
Arlo Pro 4 Spotlight Camera came out late last year (2020) and has a lot of advanced features. This camera gives you the ability to record in 2K with HDR for a clearer picture and the ability to zoom in and see things up close. The pro 4 is wire-free and weather-resistant, so this gives you the flexibility to have it outside year-round and be able to put it in the perfect spot. The camera also comes with a 3-month secure plan that gives you notifications of people’s vehicles and whatever else. Another unique feature of this camera is that it has a siren to help ward off unwanted guests.
- 2K Video
- HDR
- Color Night Vision
- 2 Way Audio
- Wire-Free
- 3-month free trial on service
- Plans start at $2.99 for one camera, $9.99 for unlimited
- Works with a service plan but it’s limited
2. Google Nest Cam Outdoor or Indoor, Battery Security Camera
Google has reintroduced the $180 Nest Cam for smart home security, designed for indoor or outdoor use. Competing with Arlo and Wyze, its midrange specs include 1080p HD video, night vision, a 130-degree view, 6x digital zoom, and two-way audio. New features encompass free smart alerts, activity zones, and on-device processing through a machine learning chip.
Although priced between, the Nest Cam’s value shines for Nest-exclusive households. It’s magnetically mounted, weighing about 14 ounces with a 3.27-inch width. While battery-operated, an optional $35 weatherproof power cable is available for wired installation. Its battery life, estimated from 1.5 to seven months, varies based on activity and settings. The Nest Cam offers free customizable alerts, with separate zones for different notifications.
Nest Aware subscriptions ($6/month) provide familiar face detection, sound alerts, and a 30-day video archive. The $12/month Nest Aware Plus includes more days of video history and continuous recording. Notably, the Nest Cam’s video data is encrypted in transit and at rest on Nest servers. Processing for detections and face recognition occurs on the device itself. The camera integrates with routines, only recording when you’re away. An intriguing security provision offers a free replacement if the camera is removed within 30 days, contingent on a police report.
Best Features:
Versatile Indoor/Outdoor Use: The Nest Cam is designed to be used both indoors and outdoors, offering flexibility in its placement.
Midrange Technical Specifications: With features like 1080p HD video, night vision, a 130-degree field of view, 6x digital zoom, and two-way audio, the Nest Cam offers standard but reliable technical specifications.
Free Smart Alerts: The camera provides complimentary smart alerts, allowing users to receive notifications for customizable activity zones.
On-Device Processing: Equipped with a new machine learning chip, the Nest Cam processes detections and face recognition locally on the device, enhancing privacy and reducing the need for cloud processing.
Battery Operation with Optional Cable: While battery-powered, an optional weatherproof power cable is available for those who prefer wired installation.
Nest Aware Subscriptions: Subscription options provide added benefits such as familiar face detection, sound alerts, and extended video history, enhancing the camera’s capabilities.
Security and Encryption: Video data is encrypted during transit and storage on Nest servers, and the camera features on-device processing, bolstering its privacy and security aspects.
3. Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight Security Camera
If you’re looking for a floodlight and a camera the Arlo Pro 3 combines both of these features. With the floodlight and camera built-in together you can flood your property with light with up to 3000 lumens. If you spot an unwanted guest you can even trigger a siren. This camera also works with Amazon’s Alexia, Google home, and more.
- Floodlight with up to 3000 lumens
- 2K Video
- HDR
- Color Night Vision
- 2 Way Audio
- Wire-Free
- 3-month free trial on service
- Plans start at $2.99 for one camera, $9.99 for unlimited
- Works with a service plan but it’s limited
4. Canary Flex Indoor Outdoor Security Camera
One downside to many of the Wi-Fi security cameras available today is that they provide a limited field of vision, so you may need to purchase quite a few of them to adequately monitor your home. The Canary Flex Indoor Outdoor Security Camera takes care of that potential problem by providing a full 360-degree swivel ability, so you can view a wider range of space with just one camera.
The flexibility that the Canary offers means that you can truly use this device to cover a large room or a 360-degree view of your front porch.
If your home has a modern aesthetic, this is probably the right style for you! Besides, choosing this camera will likely save you money because a single device can view more space than many more static competitors. Aside from the sleek design, users love the swivel function.
- 360-degree views
- Weatherproof
- Easy installation
- Modern design
- Need a monthly payment if you want to record in Home mode
5. Ring Stick Up Security Camera
No one wants to have to spend hours setting up a new home security system, which is probably why the market hasn’t completely moved away from traditional security companies yet. However, many smart home security products require practically no installation or setup. We’d bet you can have the Ring Stick Up Cam installed and working within 10 minutes of opening the product’s box!
I’m big into simple products that are easy to install, especially those with great reviews, and this fits that bill. The Ring is also becoming a very well-regarded brand, and this device would work well with other products from their suite. Of course, the top praise for this device always goes to its simple setup and use.
- Idiot-proof installation
- Night Vision
- Store recorded videos in the cloud
- The live video feed can be slow at times
6. Blink Outdoor Wireless HD Security Camera
One of the coolest features of the Blink Outdoor wireless battery-powered HD security camera is that it’s supposed to have 2-year battery life. The camera is powered by two double lithium batteries and these are included. This comes with a free 30-day trial of blink subscription plan. And after 30 days, it cost $3 per month for one camera or $10 a month for unlimited cameras. Probably because of the easy setup and use, this camera has stellar reviews on Amazon with over 61,000 as of this writing.
- Two-year battery life
- Motion detection
- Set up in minutes
- Two-way audio
- Subscribe for just $3 per month per camera, or $10 per month for unlimited cameras
7. Reolink Argus Solar Powered WiFi Security Camera
The Reolink Argus Solar Powered WiFi Security Camera can stay fully charged thanks to the solar panel. This has a 6500mAh built-in battery. This security camera can also turn its head 355° horizontally and 140° vertically. This gives the user a very wide range to view from compared to most security cameras. This also has encrypted security cloud services. You get free playback from the cloud video of the past 7 days. If you want to record locally you can use an SD card and record on that for your storage.
- Since it can stay self-powered, you can place anywhere there is sunlight
- Records in 1080p HD
- Motion detection
- Two-way audio
- 7-Day Free Secure Cloud Storage
8. WYZE Cam Outdoor Security Camera Bundle
The Wyze Cam Outdoor v2 is an upgraded version of the original wire-free, battery-powered Wyze Cam Outdoor. It features an improved Starlight Sensor for excellent nighttime visibility with Color Night Vision in 1080p HD resolution. The motion detection range has been extended by up to 28%, and users can define custom motion detection zones for relevant alerts. With a wider 130-degree field of view, it captures more of the surroundings. The camera includes a motion-activated siren, two-way audio, and motion-detection alerts for added security. Its easy installation, 6-month battery life (rechargeable via microUSB), and compatibility with the Wyze Solar Panel make it a convenient choice for users, potentially eliminating the need for recharging.
Color Night Vision with Starlight Sensor: The upgraded camera includes an award-winning Starlight Sensor, enabling Color Night Vision in 1080p HD resolution. This feature allows clear visibility at night, making it as clear as daytime.
Extended Motion Detection Range and Custom Zones: The camera’s motion detection range has been expanded by up to 28%, improving its ability to detect motion from a greater distance. Additionally, users can define custom motion detection zones, ensuring they receive alerts only for areas of interest.
Wider Field of View: With a wider 130-degree field of view, the camera captures more of its surroundings, providing a broader perspective of what’s happening in the monitored area.
Enhanced Security Features: The camera comes equipped with useful security features, including a motion-activated siren and two-way audio. These features enable users to deter potential intruders and communicate in real-time through the camera.
9. WYZE Cam v3 with Color Night Vision, Wired 1080p HD Indoor/Outdoor
Are you on a tight budget but still want to get that extra security? The WYZE Cam v3 is probably the best camera you can get for its price. For just around $35, you get features that are on cameras that are way more expensive. Unlike v1 and v2 of the WYZE Cam, this v3 can be placed outside.
- Very Affordable
- Limited Free cloud storage
- Low-cost monthly service for added features
- 1080p HD recording
- Night Vision
- 2-Way Audio
- Works with smart assistants
— Best Wireless Outdoor Security Cameras FAQ —
Q: Do Security Cameras Deter Crime?
A: Most academic studies have found them to reduce and deter crime overall. You can read more about it here at Security.org.
Q: Do I need to have Wi-Fi to work with these Outdoor Security Cameras?
A: With these devices, yes, you will realize the full potential of the outdoor security cameras when Wi-Fi is available.
Q: Do I need to pay a subscription for Outdoor Security Cameras?
A: Some cameras require a subscription, yes, whereas others do not. Be sure to read the full features and benefits of any product before purchasing.
Q: How far do Outdoor Security Cameras reach and work?
A: While each device is different, on average, the range is about 250 to 500 feet.
Q: Do Outdoor Security Cameras prevent crime?
A: They can help, yes! I especially advise using the devices that feature a spotlight option, meaning that a powerful light will shine on an area when it detects movement.
Q: How to install an Outdoor WiFi Security Camera
A: These outdoor cameras are very user-friendly and simple to install. Most can be set up in less than 30 minutes, and as long as you are moderately adept at using a smartphone you’ll be able to access your cameras on-the-go with ease.
Q: How much does an Outdoor WiFi Security Camera cost?
A: The cameras featured in this article range in price from $144 – $249. Most outdoor cameras are relatively moderately priced considering the benefits they provide!
Why should you trust Ideaing?
Since 2013, our team at Ideaing holds an extensive background in technology, from electrical engineering to product managers at Fortune 500 companies. We pride ourselves on providing truly objective insight into our reviews and recommendations. Our team spends many hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to save you time and money.
Note, this article was updated to include the newest products on Jan 30, 2022.
Wrap-up
The peace of mind that having a great outdoor Wi-Fi security setup will give you is worth its weight in gold, and the products on this list all have excellent qualities to help make your home safer. At Ideaing, we think that installing smart home security products is one of the best decisions you can make for your home.
These products are simple to use, are less expensive than traditional security systems from corporate providers, and allow you to be in charge of your home security.
We also have the complete Wi-Fi Security Cameras if you’re looking for a more thorough guide.
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