Security Cameras and Doorbells

Pick a security camera

• Best Security Cameras Without a Subscription

  Wi-Fi cameras that record locally to microSD or built-in storage with no monthly plan required.

• Best Solar Security Cameras

  Wire-free outdoor cameras with solar power and local recording.

• Best Indoor and Pet Cameras Without a Subscription

  Indoor pan/tilt cameras for pets and home with local recording and privacy features.

• Best HomeKit Secure Video Cameras

  Cameras for Apple Home, plus the iCloud+ and home hub requirements explained.

• Best PoE Camera and NVR Kits

  PoE and NVR explained, with kits for 24/7 whole-home recording to a local drive.

• Battery vs Wired Security Cameras

  Recording, installation, upkeep and cold-weather differences between battery and plug-in cameras.

• Local vs Cloud Storage for Security Cameras

  microSD, hubs, NVRs and cloud plans compared, and which to choose.

Fix offline cameras, placement and security

• Outdoor Camera Placement and Weak Wi-Fi

  Mounting height and angles, testing signal at the mount spot, and fixes for weak camera Wi-Fi.

• Ring Doorbell or Camera Offline? Fixes

  Signal strength ranges, reconnecting to new Wi-Fi, power checks and Chime Pro, from Ring's help center.

• How to Secure Your Security Camera

  Seven steps from two-factor sign-in and updates to IoT networks and safe sharing.

Video doorbells

• Best Video Doorbells Without a Subscription

  Doorbells that record locally, plus wired vs battery power and chime compatibility.

• Will a Smart Doorbell Work With My Home?

  Check transformer voltage, chime type, Wi-Fi at the door, Matter support and mounting.

Other topics

Home Wi-Fi Help · Smart Home and Matter · Brand Setup and Fixes · Recommended gear · Search all guides