SafeHome.org may receive compensation from some providers listed on this page. Learn More
We may receive compensation from some providers listed on this page. Learn More
If you are looking for a cheap home security camera system, you are in luck. We have compiled a list of the best affordable security cameras on the market.
Updated July 14, 2021
copied!
Today’s home security cameras allow you to monitor your front porch for package thieves, keep an eye on your kids when you are away and make sure elderly loved ones are safe and comfortable at home.
In the past home security cameras were expensive and required professional installation. That is no longer the case. The newer home security cameras are a breeze to install and use. And, there are a variety of affordable ones to choose from. For less than $100, you can get a high-quality home security camera equipped with tons of features like remote control and two-way voice. Here’s a list of five home security cameras that won’t empty your wallet.
Zmodo offers a variety of inexpensive indoor and outdoor security cameras.
The Zmodo EZCam is the cheapest indoor camera in the lineup. It is currently just $29 and offers 720p HD wireless recording, night vision, two-way audio, motion detection, and a 115° wide viewing angle. Time-lapse videos are available but it requires a cloud storage plan.
Zmodo’s outdoor video cameras start at just $69. The Zmodo Sight 180 Outdoor camera features 1080p HD video, motion alerts, night vision, and a 180° wide angle lens.
The above cameras are the least expensive offered by Zmodo. If you need more features, there are a variety of other cameras to choose from. Zmodo also offers several video doorbells. They start at $99 and offer 1080p video, real-time alerts, and smart video detection.
Cloud recording is available as an option. It does not cost anything to view video clips on the mobile app. There are two cloud storage plans to choose from if you want more than 12 hours of footage. One plan offers 7-day storage and the other features 30-day cloud storage. Read our full Zmodo review to learn more.
Zmodo is a good choice for anyone looking for variety and flexibility when it comes to choosing a security camera. The company offers more than 20 indoor and outdoor security cameras and doorbells. All of the cameras are affordable considering the range of options they offer. Because Zmodo’s products all work together, it is easy to upgrade to more cameras at any time.
The Blink camera system is an “ultra-affordable” home security camera system. The Blink One-Camera System plus Sync Module Set is just $79.99. You can add as many cameras as you want to this system. Each additional camera is $69.99 or you can purchase one of the many camera packages.
Blink also sells the Blink Indoor and Blink Outdoor cameras. These options offer 1080p HD video quality, night vision, and two-way talk.
With Blink, there are no monthly subscription fees. You get totally free cloud storage.
The Blink Indoor HD Camera and XT2 Outdoor Camera are ideal for customers who want a cheap home security camera system with remote viewing and control. Since Blink does not offer integration with other smart home devices, it may not be the best system for someone who is looking to control their cameras through home automation. However, for customers who want a cheap way to see what is going on at home, then Blink’s cameras are perfect. To read more about our experience testing Blink, see our Blink camera review.
Ring is known for their line of video doorbells. The company has expanded their offerings to include a range of indoor and outdoor security cameras. Like their video doorbells, Ring security cameras are affordable and offer DIY installation.
The cameras run on a range of energy sources. You can choose from solar, battery or wired power. Using the Ring app, you can monitor your indoor and outdoor security cameras in clear 1080 HD anytime.
Cloud storage plans are available for an extra fee. he Ring Protect Basic Plan is just $3 a month. It includes video storage. You can also share videos with this plan. The Ring Protect Plus Plan is ideal for multiple Ring cameras as it allows you to store footage from more than one camera.
Ring’s line of outdoor and indoor security cameras are a good choice for anyone who wants affordable security cameras and prefers DIY install. The loud siren also makes Ring a better option for home security as it can help scare burglars away. Ring is also a good system for customers who would like to integrate cameras with other smart home devices or security.
If you want to hear clearly what is going on in your home or talk with people through the camera, then there may be better options. To read all about our experience testing Ring’s lineup of indoor and outdoor security cameras, head on over to our in-depth Ring Cam review.
Google Nest home security cameras are designed to be part of a Nest smart home. They work with other Nest smart home products to monitor and secure your home. Nest Cams can also be used independently, as well.
The Nest Indoor Security Camera features 24/7 live streaming. It has a versatile magnetic stand so you can place it anywhere. The Nest Cam Outdoor IQ and the Nest Cam Outdoor are both for outdoor use. They are durable and waterproof and can be used in rain or shine. All of Nest’s cameras run on A/C power. All Nest Indoor and Outdoor Cams feature live 24/7 video, infrared night vision, instant smartphone alerts, and a three-hour snapshot history. They also offer advanced features like familiar face recognition.
You can also create and share videos with the police with the optional cloud storage plan.
Nest security cameras are a good choice for customers who are looking for smart home compatibility and high-tech features like Familiar Face Recognition. The main downside to Nest products is that a Nest Aware subscription is required to get the most useful features. Plus, Nest cameras are more expensive than the competition since a Google Home Hub is needed. However, for the number of features that you get, Nest cameras are a good deal.
Arlo offers a complete range of smart home security cameras. You can choose from indoor and outdoor models. Arlo also offers an Arlo Baby HD camera, which is equipped with a night light, lullabies, and air sensors.
Arlo’s Mobile Cameras do not require Wi-Fi or AC power. Arlo’s security cameras work with the company’s other smart home devices like the Arlo wireless outdoor security light, which allows you to schedule security lighting when you are not at home. If you are looking for smart home integration, the Arlo 2 Pro, is an outdoor security camera that works with Amazon Alexa, Stingyify and Google Assistant.
Need an affordable outdoor security camera that can be placed anywhere? The Arlo Go is wireless and weatherproof. You will need a mobile data plan to use it, however, it can be placed anywhere you want thanks to the long-lasting rechargeable batteries.
The Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2 both feature a loud 100db siren. Intelligent motion detection helps distinguish between an object, animal or person. See our full Arlo camera analysis to learn more.
Arlo’s home security cameras are a great option for customers who want a high-tech camera at an affordable price. Although they are pricier than some of the other cameras on the market, Arlo’s offers include a lot of helpful features. The Arlo Baby HD camera is perfect for new parents who want to keep an eye on their little one. This camera can be integrated with other cameras and devices from Arlo.
Jaime Fraze has 16 years of writing and editing experience, with seven years spent writing about emerging technologies. As our home security camera expert, she has hand-tested and reviewed every major security camera brand and has written more than 300 articles on the topic. Previously, Jaime has contributed to award-winning media outlets such as the Rocky Mount Telegram and the Daytona Beach News-Journal. As a homeowner and mother of two, Jaime is constantly looking for ways to keep her home and family safe. She holds a bachelor’s degree in English/Journalism from the University of Delaware.
Want help choosing home security cameras?
Answer 7 simple questions and we'll recommend the top camera options for you.
Start Quiz
