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The best cheap home security cameras under $100
There are over one million home invasions in the US each year, and countless others globally.
ZDNET Recommends
If you have the means to do so, having some form of protection and security device in your home can bring you peace of mind and allow you to check on your property in real-time.
However, not everyone has the budget to spend thousands of dollars on a new home security system.
You don't need all the bells and whistles to remain secure. While it can be beneficial to have cameras watching every doorway and window, siren-equipped floodlight systems, and sensors everywhere, sometimes, one or two well-placed cameras will perform just as well.
So, I've rounded up the best cheap home security cameras under $100 so you can protect your home for less.
Also: What is the best outdoor security camera (and which is easiest to install)?
- affordable
- versatile
- IP65 weather resistance
- the design won't suit everyone
Features: 1080p HD resolution | pan-tilt | color night vision | two-way audio | IP65 rating
The Wyze Cam Pan v3 is my top pick for cheap security cameras in 2023. Coming far below $100 at only $34 directly from the vendor, this camera packs a variety of useful features into a small, compact device.
You can expect the camera to record footage in 1080p, and it even comes with color night vision. Furthermore, the Wyze camera has pan, tilt, and zoom functions, making it a great option indoors if you want to keep an eye on your home, pets, and children via motion tracking or live view.
The camera is compatible with Google Home and Alexa.
- Alexa-compatible
- Infrared night vision
- Motion activation
- Need a subscription for premium features
- Indoor use only
Features: plug-in | 1080p HD resolution | two-way audio | motion detection | night vision
The Blink Mini is a small, compact home security camera with a 1080p HD camera for a better performance than you would expect. It has a simple plug-in design means set-up is done that much faster with easy smartphone connectivity for all of the rest. There are also other features like motion detection and two-way audio.
The live view keeps you in the know at all times, plus you can use the two-way audio to communicate with family and guests alike. You can even customize motion detection zones for specific areas of your home or office.
- Alexa
- 2-year battery life
- Motion alerts
- Lacks major features
- Must use Wi-Fi
Features: battery-powered | weather-resistant | 1080p HD resolution | two years of battery life | night vision
The Blink Outdoor security camera uses wireless connectivity with an easy set-up that skips the wiring and professional installation. It uses a battery-powered design that runs up to two years on the AA batteries that are also included -- allowing you to install, set, and forget, while ensuring your garden or driveway is secure.
The camera's other features are attractive, too, including infrared night vision, motion detection alerts, customized motion zones, and live view with two-way audio. You also have the option to upgrade to the Blink Subscription Plan in order to access cloud storage.
- wireless
- wide viewing angle
- no hub needed
- subscription required to unlock advanced features
Features: 1080p HD resolution | wireless | integrated spotlight | 130-degree angle | rechargeable battery | compatible with Apple HomeKit, Alexa, and Google Assistant
The Arlo Essential Spotlight camera is one of the more premium devices I recommend. Useful as part of a wider ecosystem, this 130-degree field-of-view camera can be used either indoors or outdoors, and comes with an integrated spotlight to light up outside areas.
This security camera will appeal to many due to its stylish look, and being wireless, you don't have to worry about the hassle of a wired installation -- or the cost of one.
At the time of writing, Arlo has a promotion that includes a discount of up to 20% when you create a security bundle.
- Super affordable
- Wireless connectivity
- Local storage
- Subscription required for certain features
- Limited night vision
Features: wireless | siren | 1080p HD resolution | two-way talk | Alexa compatible | pan/tilt field of view
TP-Link Tapo is a wireless indoor model that lacks any weather resistance but still manages to pack a punch with multiple features. For daytime use, there is a Pan/Tilt IP camera that allows for scanning with a wider field of view. At night, enjoy night vision up to 30 feet away with a motion sensor with instant push notifications and two-way audio.
Other features include a built-in siren that you can sound whenever a threat is detected. This is a home security camera that is perfect for surveillance of your home, office, or other areas that you want monitored.
What is the best cheap home security camera?
The best cheap home security camera is the Wyze Cam v3, combining excellent features with outstanding value. With a clear picture and water resistance, this is a versatile camera you can use indoors and out. While other cameras I have recommended offer more features, for the price point, you can't do much better for an affordable security solution.
To see how it compares, this is an overview of the best cheap home security cameras.
Home security camera | Cost | Resolution | Weather-resistant | Night vision? |
Wyze Cam Pan v3 | $34 | 1080p | ✔ | ✔ |
Blink Mini | $35 | 1080p | ✗ | ✔ |
Blink Outdoor security camera | $100 | 1080p | ✔ | ✔ |
Arlo Essential Spotlight camera | $74 | 1080p | ✔ | ✔ |
TP-Link Tapo | $25 | 1080p | ✗ | ✔ |
Which is the right cheap home security camera for you?
It really depends if you're looking for an indoor or outdoor camera, what area coverage you need, if certain video features like night vision are important to you, and what price you're willing to spend.
To help you find the best cheap home security camera for you, our expert recommendations can help.
Choose this cheap home security camera... | If you want... |
Wyze Cam Pan v3 | The best overall option. The Wyze Cam v3 combines reliable security features with being extremely affordable, as well as compatibility with Google Home and Alexa. |
Blink Mini | Something compact to handle a smaller area. This camera is simple to install, too, being plug-and-play. |
Blink Outdoor Security Camera | An affordable outside security camera. With up to two years of battery life on offer, you can install, set, and forget. |
Arlo Essential Spotlight camera | A wireless, direct-to-Wi-Fi security camera that can be used indoors and outside. The color night vision is a nice touch, too, as is the camera's weather resistence. |
TP-Link Tapo | A feature-rich camera with pan-and-tilt functions. While it isn't suitable for the outdoors, the inbuilt siren will make intruders in your home think twice. |
How did I choose these cheap home security cameras?
When searching for the best cheap home security cameras, these are some factors to consider that helped shape my decision.
- Location: Not all home security cameras have the weatherproofing required to work outdoors. Be sure to double-check which home security cameras have the type of build you need based on the intended location.
- Wired: If you decide to purchase a wired home security camera -- especially one intended for use outside -- be sure to keep in mind that professional installation will likely need to be involved.
- Camera: The standard for home security cameras is a 1080p resolution, but there are also models these days with 4K video. Anything less than that will deliver a subpar picture that lacks all of the sharpness and clarity you would otherwise receive.
- Features: Whether it is motion detection or two-way audio, there are many features that can make a cheap home security camera the best pick for you.
Do security cameras have a monthly fee?
Most cheap home security cameras come with a monthly fee if you want upgraded features. However, it is typically possible to continue to use the camera without a membership, although you will likely lose access to features like live video and night vision.
What is the easiest home security camera to install?
Many cheap home security cameras are wireless for extra convenience. Wired models typically require installation, which can easily get pricey. Be sure to carefully shop your options and consider installation. If an easy installation is one of your priorities, plug-and-play or wireless devices might be more suitable.
Do home security cameras require Wi-Fi all the time?
Some camera models don't require an internet connection to record video footage. Instead, they store this footage locally, such as on a microSD card, for viewing.
That said, you'll miss some of the most important features if you don't connect your camera to the internet. This includes cloud video storage and alerts, meaning you could lose precious seconds if someone tries to break into your home while you're there and you don't know about the situation until it's too late.
Are there alternative cheap home security cameras worth considering?
My recommendations for cheap home security cameras include various indoor and outdoor options, different pricing, and special features. However, it's not possible to highlight every cheap security camera on the market. Below are my other recommendations for smart security cameras that won't break the bank.
Best price
Ring Indoor Cam - Save a further $10 with a renewed model
The Ring Indoor Cam is a discreet, small, plug-and-play security solution.
Best price
eufy security S220 Indoor Cam - Save 27%
The eufy security S220 Indoor Cam is a pan-and-tilt camera suitable for watching your home, pets, and kids.
Best price
Wyze Cam OG security camera - Complete with color night vision
The Wyze Cam OG security camera isn't discreet but offers color night vision for outside security.