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Our pick, ADT, topped our list with its range of Google Nest cameras featuring motion-activated recording and facial recognition.
Updated August 27, 2024
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It’s a good idea to have security cameras in your home. It's an even better idea to buy them from the same company that provides your security system. That way, you can check up on your home remotely when you receive alerts and have video evidence in case of a break-in.
We wanted to find out which home alarm providers offered the best cameras, so we got to testing. Of the 10 systems we compared, ADT came out on top thanks to its reliable monitoring service and advanced cameras from Google Nest. But we also recommend SimpliSafe, Vivint, Frontpoint, and Alder. Keep reading to find out which one best suits your home.
ADT has been in business for over 150 years and continues to innovate the home security industry. Recently they’ve partnered with Google to offer some of the products from the Nest range. You don’t even need to schedule an appointment to install these devices like their tradtional alarm packages. But you still get access to their 24/7 monitoring service, which is the best around.
I tested out ADT’s old indoor and outdoor cameras, and they were fine. The footage was 1080p HD, but there was no built-in siren or facial recognition. For those features, I needed the Google Nest Cams, which I was more than happy to upgrade to.
The Nest Cam image quality is still 1080p, but the devices are powered by AI. My favorite feature was Familiar Faces. Every Friday afternoon, my brother stops by for a drink after work. Now that the cameras recognize him, I get an alert to let me know he’s arrived and to start pouring.
FYI: I also used the Familiar Face features to ignore animals and cars as I live on a busy street. This way, I don’t get a notification every 30 seconds.
The Nest Cam isn’t perfect. I needed a cloud subscription to keep footage, which was fortunately included in the ADT plan I paid for. The real concern for me was that it also needed the internet to record motion-triggered events. The battery-powered outdoor and plug-in indoor models have the functionality to store clips locally – no internet needed – but only up to one hour of videos. They still needed Wi-Fi to upload the clips to the cloud.
Read More: Google Nest Cam Review 2024
Setting up my ADT Outdoor Camera to overlook the back porch
When you buy an ADT home security system, you’re not just getting cameras as part of a package. You also get their best-in-industry monitoring. But this doesn’t come cheap.
There’s only one option available for systems with cameras. I paid $44.99 per month, which included their professional monitoring service, smart home integrations, and video storage.
But it’s worth it. ADT’s professional monitoring stands out for many reasons. SMART Monitoring reduced our false alarms and improved reaction times from the center to 10 seconds or less. They have 12 monitoring centers across the U.S. and Canada, which is more than SimpliSafe and Vivint, which only have two. It’s one of the reasons we think it’s one of the best systems for seniors who might need the extra help not just with security but other safety emergencies.
Reviewing my activity on the ADT Control Panel
Whether you’re choosing a traditional system or the self-setup option, ADT makes it easy to create a tailored security solution. This is how much you’ll pay for their Google Nest cameras:
| Security Cameras | Price |
|---|---|
| Google Nest Cam (battery) | $179.99 |
| Google Nest Cam (wired) | $99.99 |
| Google Nest Doorbell (battery) | $179.99 |
FYI: If you choose a home security system that needs to be installed professionally, ADT charges start from $99.
| Equipment cost | Packages starting at $499 |
|---|---|
| Monitoring options | Professional |
| Monitoring cost | Starting at $29.99 per month |
| Contract length | Starting at 36 months |
| Installation options | Professional or DIY |
| Smart platform integration | Alexa and Google Home |
SimpliSafe’s low-cost packages offer easy installation, affordable monitoring, and reliable DIY equipment that includes top-tier cameras. You don’t have to purchase a monitoring plan, and if you do, there are no contracts to sign. It’s no surprise they top our list of the best affordable home security systems. The thing is, SimpliSafe can be just as impressive if you’re looking for a more full-service company. Their professional monitoring services feature video verification, and monitors are trained to talk potential home invaders down.
Cameras were the second device I had to choose as part of the steps to build my home security system with SimpliSafe. They don’t have a big selection. SimpliSafe has an outdoor camera and a wireless and wired indoor camera. I grabbed one of each.
The wireless indoor camera stood out to me. It only took mere seconds for it to detect motion. It even managed to capture my dog running across the room after hearing me open the refrigerator door. I also brought up live feeds in the app and reviewed clips saved throughout the day. The image quality was perfect, and I could zoom into different sections around the room without losing clarity.
A close-up of SimpliSafe’s wireless indoor camera
The cameras are just the beginning. The Wireless Indoor works great with SimpliSafe’s new Fast Protect plan. What I liked most is that it lets SimpliSafe agents use video verification to check emergencies. They’ll send images to first responders to get them on the scene faster. And with two-way audio, agents can communicate with potential home invaders and, at least in theory, talk them down.
This service is more affordable than ADT. Self-monitoring with camera recording is just $9.99 per month. But if you want the Fast Protect features, it will cost you $29.99.
Speaking of prices, here’s a quick breakdown of these models, features, and costs:
| SimpliSafe Camera | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Outdoor Camera Pro |
|
$189.99 |
| Wired Indoor Camera |
|
$99.99 |
| Wireless Indoor Camera |
|
$139.99 |
Pro Tip: SimpliSafe is known for its sales; it’s almost always running one. Right now, systems are 50 percent off when you sign up for monitoring, and the company throws in a free indoor camera.
SimpliSafe’s DIY installation approach offers more independence. I had the choice to design my own system or choose a pre-made package. It also gave me the option to change my professional monitoring plans whenever I wanted. If I’m working from home for the next month, I’ll choose the self-monitoring plan. Then, when I go on vacation, I’ll switch to the Fast Protect option. SimpliSafe is a favorite with my renter friends, too. Visit our best apartment security page to see how they stand out among the rest.
| Monitoring options | Professional and DIY |
|---|---|
| Installation | Professional and DIY |
| Smart platform integration | Alexa and Google Home |
| Equipment Cost | Packages starting at $249.96 |
| Monthly Monitoring Cost | From $9.99 |
| Contract Length | Monthly |
Vivint offers some of the most advanced protections and equipment in the industry, complete with the latest smart technology. That extends to Vivint’s security camera offerings as well. Across the board, Vivint cameras are some of the best we’ve tested, including their indoor and outdoor models and the powerful video doorbell. Be warned: you’ll pay handsomely for this equipment and for the monitoring it’s used for. We think a Vivint system is well worth the money.
Vivint is one of the best providers of home security on the market today. Their systems are professionally installed and monitored, and each package is bespoke, meaning you’re going to get a system that works for your specific security needs. And if those needs include cameras, there are three options to choose from; an indoor camera, an outdoor camera, and a doorbell camera.
The Vivint Doorbell Camera fits in the palm of your hand
One of my favorite features of these cameras is the AI-powered active burglar deterrent. On one occasion, the camera spotted someone approaching my front door at night. I instantly got an alert on my phone, the lights shone on the person, and the siren began blaring. By the time I got to the door, they were gone. So, as far as proactive security cameras go, Vivint cams are among the best in the business.
Like ADT, Vivint only has one monitoring plan for security systems featuring cameras. The Smart Control plan starts at $44.99 and increases based on how many cameras you decide to install.
Unfortunately, it doesn’t come with a lot of extra features like SimpliSafe does. The only one I thought was worthwhile was smart home automation. Vivint connects to Z-Wave and Zigbee devices, which opens up access to 10,000+ smart devices.
Pro Tip: I heard a noise outside while I was watching a scary movie. I quickly had Alexa live-stream footage on my Fire TV so I could see what was happening. It was just the wind, but it was good to know I could keep an eye on things in picture-in-picture.
Lots of customers will be scared off by Vivint’s price. There’s no two ways around this — if you sign up for a Vivint system, you’re probably going to be spending at least $1,000. This is how much the cameras alone cost.
| Vivint Camera | Price | Per Month Cost (60 month Contract) |
|---|---|---|
| Vivint Indoor Camera Pro | $200 | $3.33 |
| Vivint Outdoor Camera Pro | $399 | $6.67 |
| Vivint Doorbell Camera Pro | $249 | $4.17 |
That said, you can do what I did and finance the equipment to pay it off over time. Your bank account will thank you. You can read more about this in our guide to Vivint’s prices, but if you’re looking for a security system with cameras you can trust, you should check out our full Vivint home security review.
| Monitoring Options | Professional only |
|---|---|
| Installation | Professional |
| Smart Platform Integration | Alexa and Google Home |
| Equipment Cost | From $599.99 |
| Monthly Monitoring Cost | From $40 |
| Contract Length | 48 to 60 months |
While they’re not a household name, they’ve definitely earned a solid reputation with industry insiders like us. Frontpoint offers a solid system, comparable with any system on this list. The company backs that up with the best customer service in the business. Frontpoint regularly takes the top spot on our annual top systems for customer service list. It’s also helped place the company on our list of the best overall home security systems. And, hey, lack of recognition can work in your favor, since companies like Frontpoint often work harder than other companies in order to get noticed. You reap the benefits.
With Frontpoint cameras, you can check live footage now or review recorded clips later. The indoor cameras, outdoor cameras, and video doorbells are all wireless and feature 1080p HD video with night vision. They also automatically record whatever they detect and send you an alert via the Frontpoint app.
A close-up of the Frontpoint Indoor Camera
The outdoor camera is weatherproof, can withstand temperatures below freezing, and its total range is 49 feet, so you’ll never miss anything on or around your property. I used it last winter to help track down a neighbor’s dog who went missing in a snowstorm. I couldn’t see a thing when I was out walking in it, calling his name. But when he happened by later that evening, my camera noticed him, and I was able to nab him and return him.
FYI: The Slimline doorbell camera that Frontpoint offers is made by SkyBell. It features 1080 HD resolution, night vision, and a detection range of up to 8 feet. Check out our Skybell review to learn more.
Seeing is just the beginning, though. This camera comes with multiple AI features, including the ability to distinguish between people, animals, and vehicles, ground zone monitoring, and tripwire alerts. All of the cameras have two-way audio, which I could use to speak to visitors on the other end of the camera.
Another thing I really appreciate is their customer service and the resources they make available to their customers. Their website offers a comprehensive resource center and support knowledge base that can answer most questions.
Pro Tip: One of the tricks the customer service team told me about was location-based arming reminders in the app. I admit it. Sometimes I forget to set the alarm. But now Frontpoint sends me a reminder notification once I’ve left the area. Then I just jump in the app and arm the system. I highly recommend enabling these alerts.
Note that Frontpoint systems are monitored by Rapid Response Monitoring Services, an award-winning security monitoring company. They use the most advanced technologies available and staff qualified, extensively trained professionals to provide emergency support.
Of course, there are downsides to any system. For instance, while the Frontpoint app is free to download, I could only access cameras by signing up for the Ultimate Monitoring Plan. In other words, I couldn’t self-monitor my system, at least not for free. Learn more about how Frontpoint’s monitoring works, and don’t forget to check out our full review of Frontpoint.
Frontpoint’s costs for equipment and monitoring are relatively low, and the best part is that their systems are easy to install, set up, and use. The do-it-yourself installation took me less than 30 minutes. Place the sensors and control panel, and then call customer service to activate the alarm and perform a system check. It was as easy as that.
Here’s a breakdown of Frontpoint’s camera costs.
| Frontpoint Camera | Regular Price | Sale Price |
|---|---|---|
| Outdoor Camera | $229.99 | $137.99 |
| Indoor Camera | $119.99 | $71.99 |
| Premium Indoor Camera | $199.99 | $119.99 |
| Wired Doorbell Camera | $199.991 | $119.99 |
| Wireless Doorbell Camera | $299.98 | $179.98 |
Also, something to point out is that they’re currently running a sale — 50 percent off sitewide. If you’re interested in taking advantage of these savings, make sure you move quickly. We’re not sure how long this one’s going to last.
| Equipment cost | Packages starting at $79 |
|---|---|
| Monitoring options | Professional |
| Monitoring cost | Starting at $49 per month |
| Contract lengths | Monthly or 36 months |
| Installation options | DIY |
| Smart platform integrations | Google Home, Alexa, and Siri |
We can’t talk about Alder’s security cameras without talking about Alder security systems. While these are top-tier cameras with crystal-clear HD video and tons of features, they’re even more astonishing when you integrate them into an entire system of Alder devices and connect them to a professional monitoring service that delivers some of the fastest response times in the industry.
I can go on ad nauseum about camera features (and I sometimes do). Alder’s a good example. The raw numbers are impressive: both cameras offer a generous 125 degree wide angle field of view, video clarity that’s up to twice that of 1080p HD, and color night vision that can see up to 33 feet. The outdoor model is hardy enough to be rated IP67. For those of you who haven’t memorized IP classifications, that means it’s dust tight and can withstand immersion in up to a meter of water
Alder Indoor Camera
The tech on the inside of these cameras is just as impressive. Two-way talk means I can communicate with loved ones or let delivery persons they can leave the food by the door. I even use it to remind my cat to stay off the furniture. The indoor camera knows my cat well enough not to send us alerts every time he zooms through the kitchen. And the outdoor camera is just as smart, which means I don’t get alerts every time a car happens by. Detection zones help me further fine-tune what my cameras see, and I control everything with my voice.
Pro Tip: I recommend activating the “Silent Exit” feature. It won’t announce when you arm or disarm the system, which is great if you don’t want to wake the kids or your partner if you told them you were going to be home before 2 a.m.
It’s easy to get so wrapped up in features that we forget to talk about the purpose of home security cameras – to keep you and your family safe. Alder cameras are impressive on their own, but they’re more impressive as part of a complete home security package.
Alder systems are 100 percent cellular. In addition to being reliable, cellular allows Alder to respond quickly in an emergency. The company’s average response time of 3.4 seconds is the fastest in the industry.
FYI: If I have a complaint about Alder, it’s that responses don’t give me quite enough time to cancel alerts when I make a mistake. Ultimately, though, I’ll take times that are too fast over times that are too slow any day.
Trying to find Alder’s pricing is harder than trying to fold a fitted sheet. What I do know is that you won’t pay for any equipment upfront, but you will have to sign up for a monitoring plan for a minimum of 36 months.
Much like some of the other security systems on this list, there’s only one plan available for cameras, and it’s the most expensive. The price starts at $55 and will increase based on the number of devices you have installed.
| Equipment cost | Packages starting at $360 |
|---|---|
| Monitoring options | Professional |
| Monitoring cost | Starting at $35 per month |
| Contract length | 36 months |
| Installation options | Professional or DIY |
| Smart Platform Integration | Alexa and Google Home |
Cameras offer practical benefits for security and beyond. Here are advantages to consider.
The Alder cameras I tested made by the company Yi
The data backs up these benefits. We conducted our own research into the advantages of security cameras. Here’s what we found:
From Anthony Travaglia, Retired Police Officer, Home Security Expert:
Home security cameras are your eyes when you can't be home. They allow you to see why your alarm was triggered, so you can make an informed decision on how to proceed. False alarms can cost you money and waste first responders' time. Other than remote viewing, many home security cameras also allow you two-way communication with the person on the other side of the camera, so it's like you're home even when you're not.
ADT’s Outdoor Camera surveilling the perimeter
As a newer and smarter crop of security cameras enters our testing rotation each year, we continue to see amazing tech advances on both the hardware and software side, with Wi-Fi security cameras consistently dominating the market.
For folks who would rather use their cameras without Wi-Fi, or who live in an area with shoddy internet access, this wireless camera trend does limit your choices somewhat. But we have good news: It is still possible to own security cameras that don’t need Wi-Fi to work and will get you solid video footage and peace of mind.
If you’re looking for cameras like this, we suggest targeting your search to one keyword: Hardwired. Like the best hardwired security systems, cameras that can be hardwired into your home ensure a smooth, reliable connection without the need for Wi-Fi.
Keep in mind, though, that installation is more difficult in these, which is why we typically don’t recommend cameras like this for DIYers.
You’ll need a way to route cables from the hub (usually a network or digital recorder box) to wherever you’re installing the cameras. If you’re looking for a ceiling configuration with dome or bullet cameras, Swann makes some impressive hardwired (also labeled as wired or wired CCTV) systems that are built to be installed through ceilings, floorboards, and walls. But they’re going to be more difficult to install than a Wi-Fi system, by and large.
So, you’ll clearly have more work to do to get a hardwired camera online. But if this is the setup you’re after, we’re glad to see a few solid options out there. Here’s our roundup of the best wired security cameras available.
Crime is often the number one reason people choose to add cameras. But do they really work as an effective deterrent against burglaries, trespassing, and other property crimes?
Based on our research and experience, we've discovered that learning how criminals think is the best way to measure how effective home security equipment is. The University of North Carolina conducted a poll of convicted burglars,1 and 60 percent said they would check for a security system before deciding to break in, and 40 percent said they would likely leave the area if they noticed one.
While we can’t say security cameras will prevent break-ins 100 percent of the time, we will say this: When it comes to deterring crime, cameras are a solid and necessary tool for peace of mind and visual protection.
From Anthony Travaglia, Retired Police Officer, Home Security Expert:
“Cameras not only protect your home, but your neighbors homes’ and community/public property as well. Large field-of-view cameras can pick up criminals tampering with mailboxes, parked cars they want to steal, and all other public or community property that can be stolen or vandalized. Security cameras with a large field-of-view can help catch these criminals in the act.”
What are the essentials and options with home security cameras?
Here are details about cameras and monitoring services.
Home security system Control Panels are sophisticated and easy-to-use. You can access, monitor, and take total command of your security cameras with sleek touchscreen control panels. Today’s panels boast advanced technology with features galore. When looking for a home security camera system, don’t settle when it comes to control panel quality.
This tech-forward feature lets you securely access, monitor, and control your home security cameras with your smartphone. That’s right, any security camera worth its salt will offer a user-friendly companion app, essentially putting home protection in the palm of your hand. Simply login to the app to view live-stream video, save footage, talk to visitors, and even control your camera settings.
The best home security cameras come equipped with motion detection — an impressive feature that records only when movement is detected. Gone are the days of sifting through hours of recordings, simply to learn the ‘bump in the night’ was just a tree branch hitting the roof. Automate your security recordings, and get exactly what you need, when you need it.
Up, down, side-to-side. The Pan and Tilt feature lets you remotely control your security camera every-which-way to get the best view possible. Today’s top home security cameras even offer a zoom feature that picks up the finest details. Pan and Tilt, combined with a zoom function, can make a world of difference in catching and prosecuting porch pirates and home intruders.
Fixed Cameras are a cheaper alternative to Pan and Tilt. These cameras, as the name suggests, remain fixed and motionless. Where you sacrifice in the field-of-view department, you make it up with fewer moving parts and an overall less expensive camera. Consider your space and angles, and make an informed decision on the type of home security camera you need.
With Scheduled Recording, you decide what to monitor and when. Security cameras with this feature let you program recordings for a specified time. Set to record while you’re on vacation. Record the little ones getting home from school. Or set to record when the dog-walker comes for the pup. Scheduled Recording puts you in the Captain’s seat of your home security cameras.
Here’s a helpful feature that tells the full story. Home security cameras with audio let you hear what you’re seeing. Many cameras pair audio and visual, while others have built-in speakers to scare off a would-be intruder. If the camera combines microphones and speakers, then you’ve got a two-way voice intercom system. Audio is a key feature for a robust camera system.
The best home security cameras offer Night Vision, an essential feature powered by infrared technology. A night vision camera can detect and record suspicious activity in the cover of dark. The most advanced security cameras with night vision boast full-color picture, and can even illuminate the darkest, shadowy areas in the middle of the night. Dominate the dark with night vision cameras.
Professional monitoring is a popular feature offered by many home security companies. When your security cameras are stacked with 24/7 monitoring, you get the peace of mind knowing your property, home, valuables, and family are backed by a highly-trained response team. These people live, eat, and breathe home security. Professional monitoring is certainly a feature worth looking in to.
University of North Carolina Charlotte. (2013 May 15). THROUGH THE EYES OF A BURGLAR – STUDY PROVIDES INSIGHTS ON HABITS AND MOTIVATIONS.
https://inside.charlotte.edu/news-features/2013-05-15/through-eyes-burglar-study-provides-insights-habits-and-motivations
