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With indoor security cameras, you can keep an eye on important rooms, entryways, family and pets no matter where you are. Indoor cams are compact, affordable and can be placed on any convenient counter, shelf or wall for a good look at its surroundings. These are CNET's top picks for the best indoor security camera, with choices for every situation.
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- Best Indoor Security Cameras for 2025: Tested in Our Own Homes
- What's the best indoor security camera overall?
- Best indoor security cameras of 2025
- Best overall indoor security camera
- Best indoor camera with 4K resolution
- Best budget indoor security camera
- Best portable indoor security camera
- Best indoor security camera for roommates
- Best indoor security camera with local storage
- Best indoor security camera for pets
- Best indoor home security cameras compared
- Other indoor security cams we’ve tested
- How we test indoor security cameras
- Factors to consider when picking an indoor home security camera
- How we test indoor security cameras
- Indoor security camera FAQ
- Recent updates
What's the best indoor security camera overall?
Our CNET team spent over 200 hours testing various models, and ultimately chose Google Nest Cam as the best indoor security camera. It provides 3 hours of free cloud video storage, accurate AI-powered detection for people and animals, is compatible with Google Home and Alexa systems and has a simple recharge system for battery models.
Read more: Best Smart Home Gifts for 2025
If the Nest Cam seems too expensive or lacks the features you need, we’ve included plenty of other options on the list. We found great options ranging from crystal-clear 4K cameras to compact cameras that need no drilling, making them perfect for renters. Whether you’re on a budget or need top-of-the-line AI detection, we’ve got options for everyone looking for home security systems and learning more about which cams are best.
You can also stop by our guides on the best home security cameras without subscriptions, the best wireless cams and how you can save by using an old smartphone as a security device.
Best indoor security cameras of 2025
Pros
- Easy setup with wired or battery options
- 3 Free hours of video storage
- Top-notch AI recognition for people, packages and more
- 135-degree viewing angle
- Multiple colors
Cons
- Fairly expensive for an indoor cam around $100
- Nest Aware subscription needed to unlock some features
- Bulky at nearly a pound with power cable
Why I like it:
The easily adjustable Nest Cam second-generation model works hard to make itself at home, bringing it to the top of our picks. Available in a variety of colors with support for shelf or wall mounting, the camera is easy to set up in any spot you have in mind, as long as you’re near enough to an outlet for this wired model. The healthy 135-degree field of view also lets us cover enough space to easily capture all the important spots in a room, while the night vision is top-notch for darker conditions.
The reason we gave the Nest Cam our top spot came down to Google’s unique contributions to smart home security. The company’s AI detection is unparalleled, able to spot people, animals or vehicles, and with a subscription, it’s good enough to learn the difference between familiar and unfamiliar faces. Then there’s video storage: Nest users get 3 free hours of cloud storage, a deal that’s almost impossible to find elsewhere, and you can expand it with the Nest Aware Subscription. Google’s AES 125-bit encryption and low-vulnerability track record also help inspire confidence.
Two final notes: There's a battery model of this camera if you don't mind recharging it and want easier placement. It also comes with a floodlight mount if you eventually decide you want an outdoor cam more instead.
Who is this for:
Fans of free video storage and great AI detection, people who like Google Home but also use Alexa, buyers who want a choice between battery and wired models.
Who shouldn’t buy it:
Anyone who doesn't like Google, people looking for a more compact cam (it's a great model, but it's pretty chonky compared to most of our other picks).
Pros
- Powerful dual-cam
- Excellent pan/tilt/zoom fnction
- 4K resolution
- Person and animal autotracking
- Options for onboard or cloud storage
Cons
- Needs a microSD card purchase for local storage
- Eufy's app is messy
Why I like it:
A cam that can pan, tilt and zoom is perfect for open-floor plans in your home and navigating tricky areas where you want to manage multiple angles. We have more than one camera with this design on our list, but our favorite model is the Eufy S350. Its dual-cam zoom function complements the PTZ features, while the extra-high 4K resolution lens helps you examine every detail.
Those PTZ features are particularly helpful when paired with AI tracking, which automatically follows pets and people around the room when it detects movement. We also found the S350’s night vision was excellent with two infrared LEDs. For those concerned with privacy or ongoing fees, Eufy falls firmly on the local storage side with a microSD card slot (not included). We also appreciate that Eufy took steps in 2024 to add end-to-end encryption to its web portal and other changes following a security vulnerability issue, although we are keeping an eye on its security performance.
Keep in mind this camera is wired, so you can’t put it just anywhere, but thanks to all that panning, tilting and zooming, your placement concerns will be a distant memory after installation. Just bear with the Eufy app -- it's rather cluttered and takes some time to learn.
Who is this for:
Buyers who want an indoor camera with a high resolution and excellent pan/tilt/zoom features paired with object detection.
Who shouldn’t buy it:
Anyone who gets impatient with apps, buyers who want to save money and don't need a super-high resolution for their room.
Pros
- Highly affordable 2K resolution at under $30
- pan/tilt abilities
- Sound detection as well as object recognition
- Built-in siren
Cons
- No zoom
- Some features locked behind subscription
Why I like it:
The term “budget camera” makes it sound like you’re giving up features to save on price, but it’s seriously impressive just how little is lost with this now under-$30 indoor camera from TP-Link's Tapo brand. It offers a hefty 2K resolution (more than enough for indoor viewing), plus very solid pan/tilt capabilities with motion detection and tracking for 360-degree coverage of a room. Add in the two-way audio and night vision, and it’s the best security camera deal we’ve found so far under $30.
The Tapo cam supports notifications for sound alerts as well as person detection, so you can use it for tasks like baby monitoring. For more security-focused jobs, it has a built-in siren for intruders. Alexa and Google Home support round the cam off nicely as a jack-of-all-trades that’s still a steal. You even have options when it comes to video storage: The C210 has an on-board microSD card and an option for Tapo Care at $3.50 per month that includes 30-day cloud storage and rich notifications.
Who is this for:
Users who want a camera that can do a little of everything while staying under $30. That's also why it's one of the only cams that can make a good gift.
Who shouldn’t buy it:
Users who want a streamlined app experience, people willing to pay more for better AI and higher-quality design.
Pros
- Versatile battery cam with indoor/outdoor uses
- Quick setup
- Lots of Alexa compatibility
- 1,000 activations before recharging
Cons
- Really requires a subscription for advanced features like AI
- Alexa only
Why I like it:
Indoor cameras work well with wired models because there’s usually an outlet near the shelf or table where you want to place a camera. In some cases, there may not be any nearby outlets, or you may want to move the camera to the deck, patio, sunroom or playroom for an afternoon, then move it back. The battery-powered Ring Stick Up Pro is the answer here. We like it most indoors, but it’s weather-resistant enough that if you leave it outside overnight in the rain by accident (or for a couple of weeks), you don’t have anything to worry about.
The Ring Stick Up Cam Pro also comes with a bevy of important features including night vision, two-way audio and a siren. The motion detection includes customizable privacy zones, although there’s no sound detection on this model. It does have unique extras like Bird's Eye zones for tracking if you really want to dive into settings. Since it’s a Ring product, full Alexa support is included, like the ability to watch through an Echo Show. Ring also has its foibles, notably the need for a Ring Protect plan to enable video recording, so plan for subscription costs for this model.
Who is this for:
People who want a camera they can easily move from room to room to watch where the action is (or isn't) and don't mind paying for it.
Who shouldn’t buy it:
Users who want more compatibility options than just Alexa, people who want to avoid a subscription plan at all costs.
Pros
- Compact and easy to use
- Very affordable around $40
- Two-way audio
- Effective motion detection
- Can pair with a warning chime or be used outdoors
Cons
- No video storage without a subscription
- Only Alexa voice assistant support
Why I like it:
With roommates can come a concern about keeping your room private, spotting theft or finding out who’s leaving all the dirty dishes. You may want a compact, simple cam that can watch over a small space without interfering too much with your budget. The Blink Mini 2, available at $40, is a nice answer for rental situations, dorms and similar spaces. It's pricier than the Blink Mini, but we've seen deals for as low as $20 and you get a lot more versatility in the same size. You can also upgrade it to an outdoor cam with the right cable add-on.
The 1080p resolution is plenty to keep a watch on a room, and this cam includes handy features from larger models like motion detection and app alerts to show when someone enters your room. Setup couldn’t be easier, especially if you use Alexa voice commands. That also means you can make sure anyone knows you’re shutting the cam down for privacy with a command like, “Alexa turn off the Blink cam.” If you want to ask what someone’s doing in your room, the two-way audio will let you do it in real-time. The sore point is the lack of video storage without an extra hub or subscription, but you may be willing to accept this low-cost solution without that capability.
Please note: Tell your roommates you're getting a security camera if you buy one, and if you want to set it up in a more public spot, make sure everyone agrees on when, where and why. Even your roommates are protected by the law, which gives an expectation of privacy, especially when they’re in their own bedrooms, the bathroom or other private areas.
Who is this for:
People who want a compact camera for entryways, bedrooms while living with roommates and similar situations, but still want valuable extras like a spotlight, night vision, motion detection and more.
Who shouldn’t buy it:
People who really want onboard video storage without paying for a hub or subscription, users who prefer Google Home to Alexa.
Pros
- Onboard microSD card slow for local, free video storage
- Customizable alarm
- Two-way audio
- 2K pan/tilt camera with helpful alerts about noises, people and more
- Supports expansion into a mini security system
Cons
- No wireless option
- Aqara's app is fine but does take time to learn the settings
Why I like it:
For under $100 it's impressive what Aqara's panning, 2K resolution camera can do. It performs well, has a very easy setup once you've downloaded the app, and I liked how easy it is to tap into the live view and turn on the two-way audio when the cam detects motion, people or "abnormal noises," which can include yelling and loud bangs.
You can also choose from a variety of siren sounds or download other types of chimes and control when they go off, or when the cam simply starts silently recording. While Aqara does offer a cloud storage plan (which also includes extras like face detection), this model includes a microSD card slot so you can equip it with local storage, removing the need for any monthly fees. That takes some app management and Aqara's all-purpose home app does have a learning curve, but it's my favorite current option for saving money while getting a great camera.
The G3 has one final, important trick. It's a Matter hub that can quickly connect to other Aqara devices and support a whole mini security system of door access sensors, motion sensors and more to upgrade your security on the cheap. That expansion option makes this camera hub an easy inclusion on the list.
Who is this for:
People who want all the good indoor camera features at an affordable price without needing a subscription, people who may want to upgrade to a cheap home security system later.
Who shouldn’t buy it:
Buyers looking for a wireless model, people who want a simpler, easier-to-learn device for their indoor surveillance.
Pros
- 360-degree rotating 1080p cam
- Treat launcher
- Great subscription add-ons like AI alerts for action and noise
- Two-way audio
- Some models include toys on top
Cons
- Benefits from floor placement, which makes placement awkward
- Pets can react unpredictably to pet cams
Why I like it:
Many cams with accurate motion detection can catch pets walking around, but if you want a truly pet-focused indoor camera, this Furbo model lets you do so much more. In addition to the 360-degree rotating capabilities (it’s designed to be placed in a convenient spot on the floor), it comes with motion and sound detection, pet tracking and the ability to toss out a preloaded treat for a little bit of fun. You can also zoom in to take a close look at pet activities, and there’s two-way audio to see if your pet wants to talk.
We chose the subscription version, which costs $6 per month but adds very important features for pet lovers, including cloud video storage, history and even a “vomit alert.” Technically, there’s both a dog and cat version of the pet cam, but the biggest difference is that the cat version has an added toy on a wire. Other features should be largely the same.
Fair warning: Pets can react in many different ways to pet cams. Some are terrified, some love them and some will frequently attack the talking camera, so mileage may vary. If it’s your first time with a pet cam, we suggest trying a test like putting your smartphone or smart speaker beside your pet and using FaceTime or a similar capability to call and talk to them. Watch how they interact for an idea of how they’ll do with a pet cam.
Who is this for:
Pet owners who want to keep an eye on their pets and interact with them while they're away, and don't mind paying a subscription fee.
Who shouldn’t buy it:
Users against any sort of subscription fee, people with pets who are perfectly happy by themselves.
Best indoor home security cameras compared
| $100.00 | $130 | $25 | $100 | $35 | $85.00 | $90.00 |
| 1080p/HD | 4K | 2K | 1080p/HD | 1080p/HD | 2K | 1080p/HD |
| 135-degree with 6x digital zoom | 360-degree pan/tilt/zoom | 360-degree pan/tilt | 155-degree | 110-degree | 360-degree pan | 360-degree rotating with 4x digital zoom |
| Wired | Wired | Wired | Battery | Wired | Wired | Wired |
| Yes with intelligent alerts | Yes with pet/human recognition | Motion and sound detection | Yes, with privacy zones | Yes | Yes with person, noise, gesture and (paid) face detection | Yes with sound detection, AI pet detection available with $6 subscription |
| Yes, with HDR en | 32-foot night vision | 30-foot night vision | Color night vision | Infrared night vision | Yes with person, noise, gesture and (paid) face detection | Low light vision |
| Two-way audio | Two-way audio | Two-way audio | Two-way audio | Two-way audio | Two-way audio | Two-way audio |
| 3-hour free cloud storage, more with subscription | Local storage with HomeBase hub | MicroSD card slot or paid cloud subscription | Subscription required | $3 subscription or Sync Module hub | Local microSD storage (card not included) or paid cloud subscription | $6 subscription required |
| Alexa, Google Home | Alexa, Google Home | Alexa, Google Home | Alexa | Alexa | Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple Siri (for some features) | N/A |
| 8.4 | N/A | N/A | 8/10 (earlier model) | 7.2/10 | N/A (but soon) | N/A |
The Blink Mini 2 offer shelf and wall mounting options, but you'll need an outlet conneciton.
CNET/Tyler LacomaCNET has tested every major home security camera since the market exploded in 2011 with the first DropCam. Here are links to some recent cameras we've tested, among the others listed above. We’ve also included a few early impressions of cameras I’m still reviewing.
Blink Mini: The Blink Mini cam is cheaper, but it's outclassed in every other way by the Blink Mini 2, making the upgraded model a straightforward recommendation for everyone looking for a tiny security camera.
Ring Pan-Tilt Cam: Ring's pan-tilt version of its indoor cam has many of the same features, but it's a wired model and has a very awkward design. We came away greatly preferring the versatility of simply putting the battery model wherever we wanted, which is why it ended up on our list.
Lorex 2K Wi-Fi Indoor Camera: The Lorex 2K had a spot on our list, but it's ultimately outclassed by the Aqara G3 camera, which is a more advanced, competent model. But Lorex's version does have a few advantages -- it's much less expensive, and it comes with its own microSD card instead of making you buy your own, which are advantages for the budget-conscious.
MyQ Smart Indoor Camera: There's nothing especially bad about myQ's 1080p cam (and we like the brand for other things, like garage doors), but it really doesn't do anything to stand out from the crowd. There are more attractive options around the same price point.
Wyze Cam v4: Wyze's high-res indoor cam is a great iteration on previous models at an affordable price. We're still waiting longer on recommending Wyze cams because of their serious security breaches a couple of years ago. Check back in at the end of the year to see if we think they've demonstrated safety for long enough.
GE Cync Smart Indoor Security Camera: The GE Cync isn’t a bad camera, and makes a very viable alternative to a low-cost camera that still has all the important features like motion detection, two-way audio, voice assistant compatibility and more. It didn’t quite make our list since the TP-Link Tapo cam can do more while costing less, and the Blink Mini is a more compact, easy-to-manage option.
Blurams Dome Lite 2: What we like most about this camera, other than the $30 list price (although it can often be found on sale), is that the notifications come with a timestamp to inform me exactly when the motion was detected. Most cameras will alert in real-time, but not display when the event occurred. We also appreciate the timestamp function and see how it could be used to identify when and how often a child is moving during the night. It also features full 360-degree panning, but you’ll have to swipe and swipe the camera feed to get there.
When we discover new indoor cameras from Amazon, Google and other top tech and security companies, we’ll get our hands on them for testing as they become available and update this article accordingly.
Indoor security camera comparison chart
| $100 | $130 | $20 | $100 | $40 | $50 | $64 |
| 1080p/HD | 4K | 2K | 1080p/HD | 1080p/HD | 2K | 1080p/HD |
| 135-degree with 6x digital zoom | 360-degree pan/tilt/zoom | 360-degree pan/tilt | 130-degree | 145-degree | 125-degree | 360-degree rotating with 4x digital zoom |
| Wired | Wired | Wired | Battery | Wired | Wired | Wired |
| Yes with intelligent alerts | Yes with pet/human recognition | Motion and sound detection | Yes, with privacy zones | Yes | Yes with person detection | Yes with sound detection |
| Yes, with HDR | 32-foot night vision | 30-foot night vision | Color night vision | Infrared night vision | 32-foot night vision | Low light vision |
| Two-way audio | Two-way audio | Two-way audio | Two-way audio | Two-way audio | Two-way audio | Two-way audio |
| 3-hour free cloud storage, more with subscription | Local storage with HomeBase hub | MicroSD card, optional subscription | Subscription required | Subscription or Sync Module hub | Included 16GB card | Subscription required |
| Alexa, Google Home | Alexa, Google Home | Alexa, Google Home | Alexa | Alexa | Alexa, Google Assistant | N/A |
| 8.4 | N/A | N/A | 8/10 | 7.8/10 | N/A | N/A |
Blink's person detection works well enough, but it's a subscription-only feature.
CNET/Tyler LacomaHands-on testing in a real-world environment, or as close as we can get to it, is the best way to uncover what these products can and can’t do, and that’s what we strive to accomplish. Basic testing includes analyzing setup, testing with compatible voice assistants and plenty of live view analysis to see how the detail is on a phone, how the zoom works and how to enable important features like two-way audio. We also tested the clarity of the speakers. Then we break out the dance moves and test motion detection, video storage (and speedy deletion) and how accurate alert functions are.
When reviewing cameras, we pay special attention to price and general performance along with special features and smart home compatibility to determine which cameras are best for certain applications. If you want to read more about our review process, check out our in-depth article on how we test home security cameras, video doorbells and other devices.
Google's AI detection remains top-notch.
Google/AmazonField of view
Look for views that match the unique needs of your space and where you plan on placing the camera. Most high-quality indoor cameras have around a 130-degree field of view — and some of our picks go beyond that — but you don’t need to break out a protractor. That’s plenty of coverage to get a great view of a room when placed in a corner or centered against a far wall. For the best coverage or to cover multiple angles from a central location, you'll want a PTZ camera instead.
Pricing
One advantage of smart indoor cameras is that they’re significantly less expensive than hardy outdoor versions while still offering many of the same features. If you want to save money, take a look at picks from well-known brands for $30 and below. We have a few examples on our list. Generally, don’t pay more than $100 for an indoor cam unless you’re getting a lot of extra benefits and features for it.
Night vision
Indoor security cams are less likely to have their own lights or other sources of illumination nearby save dim nightlights. If you really want an eye inside your home at night when lights are off, excellent night vision is necessary. Look for multiple infrared LEDs if you can find them, with color night if it's available.
Motion detection
Motion detection turns on the camera only when it detects movement, especially movement by humans, so it’s a necessary feature to save on video storage and battery life. Detection pairs well with alerts for your phone while away from home, but you'll want smart alerts that can recognize people or specific situations like alarms, pets barking, etc.
Smart home compatibility
Indoor cameras work particularly well with voice commands like, “Turn off camera,” or “Show me living room camera view.” Good cams work with Google Home, Google Assistant and Alexa, but they’re harder to find, and Apple Home models are even tougher to locate.
Matter (the smart home standard) compatibility is also important, and you can read more about that in our guides, but it doesn’t apply to security cams because the protocol hasn't expanded to video footage yet. Wait for a future update for this part. If you do already have a home security system from a brand like Abode, ADT or Frontpoint, you should look for an indoor cam that's compatible with that app or control panel.
The Blink Mini's small design requires a certain amount of care when installing.
CNET/Tyler LacomaTwo-way audio and more features
Depending on your security needs, you may want to look for features like two-way audio to hold conversations with a nanny or housekeeper (or to say hi to a pet). Others like features such as intelligent tracking, lots of zoom options and a built-in siren. We won’t say these are always necessary, but if you find them valuable then our picks above include extras like these.
Video storage
Video storage is somewhat more useful outside the home where catching porch pirates, potential burglars and funny animal videos is important. Many people also want video recording inside their homes, especially if they're worried about break-ins or general malfeasance (or once again, capturing cute pet videos).
Cloud storage backs videos up automatically into a cloud service, and with rare exceptions like Google Nest, you’ll need to pay a subscription fee for the ability. Local storage uploads videos to a hub or a microSD card (usually separate purchases), and you may have to connect them to a computer for additional management when they get full, but ongoing fees aren't required.
Privacy and security
Watch for brands that have good privacy records or brands that take necessary steps to secure their networks and remove vulnerabilities immediately. You don’t want a data breach putting your privacy at risk, or worse bugs like the video caching issue that let Wyze users accidentally see out of other people’s cameras. We’ll work to keep you updated on the latest privacy issues and what you should know when purchasing security devices like these.
Ring's battery cam is on the higher-end but offers a versatile, weather resistance option to watch kids wherever they are.
CNET/Tyler LacomaWe thoroughly test cameras like these in a variety of conditions, going through installation and setup, then exploring settings, AI accuracy and more in different scenarios to get an excellent idea how the models work in real-world conditions.
Image quality and night vision
We test image quality through lives views and video storage, seeing how video matches with the rated resolution and if there are any issues with latency or other problems. We take this opportunity to test brightness, experiment with video settings and see how the camera's night vision performs at about 30 feet -- enough to see throughout the average room.
App UI
Our testing also includes a thorough exploration of the camera's app and all its features. We're not just looking at what capabilities the camera has, but how easy the app is to understand and navigate. This is when we test features like motion zones, sensitivity, spotlights and more.
AI detection and features
We run a number of scenarios to see if the camera can accurate detection objects like people while ignoring other things like pets. It's important that object detection is accurate and allows users to get speedy alerts on what matters while ignoring what doesn't.
Audio, movement and more
Most indoor cams have two-way audio, basic motion detection and similar on-board features. We test these features for accuracy, clarity and general usability. If the camera has pan/tilt functions, we check that they work reliably and quietly with app controls.
Is there a security camera with no monthly fee?
Most indoor security cameras are of the DIY variety, meaning you can buy and install the camera and view the live camera feed without any upfront or ongoing fees, other than the initial purchase price. Where you’re likely to encounter fees is with cloud storage.
Companies usually charge a monthly fee to use that server space, around $3 to $5 per month with annual discounts. Very few offer free cloud storage, but you can still find it on the Google Nest Cam with its three free hours. Local storage on a hard drive in your home is free, but you’ll need a compatible device. That means finding a cam that has a microSD card slot or a cam that’s compatible with a security hub you can purchase and put in a secure spot. Some cameras give you a choice between subscriptions, local storage or both.
One final caveat: Some security cams pack so many important features like video storage, person identification and more behind their subscriptions that a monthly fee is required to get full use of the camera, making it more or less mandatory. We break down the details further in our picks.
How can I hide my indoor camera?
We don’t recommend hiding cameras for surveillance purposes, like recording an unsuspecting babysitter. If you’d like to make your camera blend in better with your home decor, consider hiding it among artificial plants, on bookshelves or in glass-covered cabinets. Tiny cams like the Blink Mini 2 are more likely to fit in small spaces.
You’ll want to avoid breaking any laws. Privacy laws can vary by state, but the running metric is “a reasonable expectation of privacy,” which means when people assume they can do private things in an area, they can’t be legally recorded. So could you legally record a nanny in the living room? Probably, but it’s a good idea to let them know you have security cameras. Could you record them legally in the bathroom? Absolutely not. A little common sense goes a long way.
Are indoor security cameras worth the cost?
Indoor security cameras are a great addition to any DIY home security setup and cost as little as $30 up to $100 (or more) with no ongoing monthly fees. If you have children or pets you want to keep an eye on, or want to ensure no unexpected visitors are lurking in your home while you’re away, indoor security cameras are an effective, inexpensive way to do just that. In short, the peace of mind that comes with owning an indoor home security camera can be well worth the initial cost.
Can I use an indoor security camera outside or through a window?
This common request has several different answers, all important, so we’ll break it down. Don’t use an indoor security camera outside unless it’s rated for outside weather ,such as with an IP65 rating. Some security cams are “indoor/outdoor” models that can handle some rain and lower temperatures, but most indoor cams aren’t rated for outdoor use and will fail. Our Ring camera pick can work outdoors for a time and the Blink Mini 2 is outdoor-ready with a cable add-on.
You can position an indoor security camera so it looks through a window, and many people try this. Glare can be an issue, and the camera won’t work at night to view outdoor spaces, which is usually when you most want an outdoor camera. We recommend spending a little bit more and getting an affordable outdoor cam when possible. It’s illegal to position an indoor camera so it overlooks someone else’s yard or looks into their windows. That violates the expectation of privacy rule, among other problems.
Do indoor security cameras need Wi-Fi?
Most indoor security cameras require Wi-Fi for features like alerts and notifications. Wi-Fi enables app connections that you need to use live view, two-way audio and other important functions. Similarly, Wi-Fi is needed to backup footage online, though some cameras may offer on-device storage. Without Wi-Fi, you won't be able to do much with these cameras, although some companies like Lorex do offer old-fashioned camera systems with DVR that can work without Wi-Fi. There are also PoE or Power Over Ethernet cameras, but they are generally outdoor models.
How do I install an indoor security camera?
Many indoor cameras are wired, so you simply plug them into an adapter or wall outlet and use the app to set them up. They also often offer a wall mount that you would screw in or use adhesive tape to attach, although generally these mounts aren't required.
How accurate is AI detect on indoor cameras?
In our testing we've come across many kinds of AI detection for people, pets, vehicles, faces, packages and more. Its accuracy can vary depending on the algorithm, but it's broadly accurate. We sometimes have AI features mistake pets for people and vice-versa, and sometimes they miss people walking by that they should have picked up. If AI is particularly bad, we call it out. On our current list, Google's Nest Cam stands out as being especially accurate -- and you don't have to pay for most of the AI features on it, either.
Updated Spring 2025: We added the Aqara G3 camera hub as our latest favorite model for local storage, replacing the Lorex 2K indoor camera. Aqara's model is a great example of a security camera that can do a little bit of everything without a subscription -- as long as you have a microSD card. We really liked how easy it was to set up and how crisp its camera views were. We're also keeping an eye on the Ring Stick Up Cam Pro battery model, since there are signs it's being slowly phased out for the Ring Outdoor Cam Plus.
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