8 Best Security Camera for iPhone and Android Devices

1. Wyze Cam HD V2 Smart Home Camera | Best Budget

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Editor’s Rating: 4.6/5

The Best Budget security camera for mobile devices goes to the Wyze Cam V2. It’s advertised as the indoor security system that’s too good to be true, but is it? Let’s take a closer look.

• Best feature 1: Compact, lightweight 3-axis design
• Best feature 2: Magnetic mount for easy placement
• Plus points: Crystal clear footage, night vision, motion detection, free storage, works w/ Alexa
• Minus points: Bad instruction, limited to 32GB cards, average night vision

Cam Compatibility: iOS and Android smartphones and tablets with the Wyze app.

Wyze HD V2 Security Cam Feature Highlights

The compact Wyze Cam is a versatile box-shaped camera that lifts, twists, and fits anywhere. Its magnetic base and adhesive metal plate give it added versatility with placement. Not having to drill holes and secure with screws means you can set this tiny box up and position it in no time. The 1080p camera has a 110° wide-angle lens that gives crystal clear HD daytime footage.

Users can view the camera’s video on any regular iOS or Android smartphone or tablet. Wyze’s V2 also has an 8x digital zoom that lets you move in on distant figures. Its night vision capability extends to 30ft in ideal conditions. There are other welcome features too. They include motion alerts, free Amazon AWS Cloud storage, 2-way audio, smoke detection, and live streaming.

The Not So Good

The instructions for the tiny cube camera are vague at best. The scant set up guide is one of its biggest complaints from the users who leave feedback. Those who have trouble with the instructions should head over to YouTube and look for a video tutorial instead. The card storage is a welcome feature, but the 32GB limitation is less impressive. Lastly, the night vision is only average though still viewable.

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2. eufyCam E-Wireless Security System | Best Value

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Editor’s Rating: 4.5/5

Out Best Value slot goes to the Security eufyCam E 1-Cam Kit. It’s a small 100% wire-free camera with a modern design that’s easy to install indoors or outside.

• Best feature 1: Works with all modern iOS and Android mobile devices
• Best feature 2: Indoor or outside w/ two-way mounting
• Plus points: 100% wire-free, live streaming, night vision, motion detection, alerts, 100db siren
• Minus points: No battery backup, no facial recognition, short delay in motion detection

Cam Compatibility: iOS and Android smartphones and other devices with the EufySecurity app
eufyCam Camera Feature Highlights

This hand-sized 1080p camera looks cute, but it’s as tough as they come. It comes with an IP65 weatherproof rating and uses a rugged ASA composite material for its housing. Torrential rain, freezing conditions, and extreme temperatures won’t affect the eufyCam functions. It’s also a no-wire security camera with a battery that lasts for 12 months or 3 years on standby. You can place it anywhere.

The eufyCam sports a wide f2.2 aperture and produces ultra-clear low-light footage up to 25ft. Two-way audio is another valuable feature and not something all security cameras offer. And the high-res real-time live streaming to mobile screens lets you warn any trespassers, as does the 100db siren. Another plus is the local 16GB MicroSD card, which eufy claims stores around 12 months of video.

The Not So Good

The eufyCam battery is excellent, but it would have been better if a backup was available. Another letdown is that the newest version of this camera did away with facial recognition. The earlier versions had both a battery backup and a human recognition feature, hence the mention. The last con is the short delay in motion detection that kicks in after a couple of seconds.

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3. SMONET 8CH WiFi Security Camera System | Top Pick

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Editor’s Rating: 4.7/5

Consider the Editor’s Top Pick if you’re looking for a more beefed-up security system. It’s the SMONET H.264+, a full 8CH 1080p indoor/outdoor wireless setup with much to offer.

• Best feature 1: 1080p cameras with a network video recorder (NVR)
• Best feature 2: Preinstalled 2TB (terabyte) hard drive
• Plus points: Plug-n-play, IP66 rating, night vision, motion detection, alerts, customizable units
• Minus points: Manual confusing for some, needs lots of power outlets

Cam Compatibility: Android/iOS smartphones and tablets with the SMONET” or IP PRO apps. Computer access is also possible using Eseecloud dedicated software.

SMONET Home Camera System Highlights

This extensive bullet camera security system is suitable for indoor or outdoor use. An IP66 rating makes them useable in the harshest weather. The eight 1080p cameras produce crystal-clear images both during the day and after dark. Each unit has three powerful infrared (IR) LED night vision lights. The cameras can capture footage as far away as 100ft (30m) in total darkness.

SMONET Home Camera System comes with an NVR and a preinstalled 2TB drive. That amount of storage lets you monitor and record around the clock, 24/7. Once the drive is full, the system can return to the start and overwrite the old data.

Camera Customization Options

Being able to customize each camera is at the heart of this inclusive security system. The options include continuous recording, scheduled recording, recycle record, and motion-only. Many users favor the latter. That’s because filming only with motion detection saves a considerable amount of disk space. You can tap into any camera—or four at once—on your mobile device via the free apps.

Users can receive motion detection alerts via the app or email. Local viewing doesn’t need a connection to the internet and lets you view all 8 cameras simultaneously on one screen. Remote viewing requires an internet connection, though, and you need that for the remote features to work.

The Not So Good

Some users—and especially those not into DIY—may find the manual somewhat lacking. It’s too brief and too vague for folks who are not technically adept. Also, this is a wireless system, but it’s not battery-operated. That means each unit needs a power outlet to function. It also means there’s going to be plenty of cables to tidy or hide with an eight-camera system.

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4. Affordable Faleemi Indoor WiFi Security Camera

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Editor’s Rating: 4.2/5

Meet the affordable Faleemi 720P wireless security camera. It’s a simple, multi-use indoor cam that you can set up and place just about anywhere you want in the home. It has a ton of features too.

• Best feature 1: Broad compatibility with mobile devices and computers
• Best feature 2: Remote Pan & Tilt function
• Plus points: Easy install, multi-camera support, motion detection, motion alerts, night vision
• Minus points: Vague instructions, average motion detection, memory card not included

Cam Compatibility: Android Smartphones, iPhones, tablets, Windows PC, and Apple Mac computers.

Faleemi WiFi FSC776 720P Feature Highlights

Installing and using this smart little Pan-n-Tilt security camera only takes a few minutes at most. You only need to plug it into a power outlet, then follow the quick prompts of the free app. The app also supports multiple cameras and can display up to 4 of them simultaneously on a screen. Faleemi’s camera can record continuously to give a 24/7 live view. All data save to a 128GB memory card.

Intelligent Motion Detection & Alerts

Motion detection and motion alerts are vital security features. The Faleemi cam sends email notifications with an image of the incident. You can also have the images sent to your FTP server. Another choice is to have a short video clip of the detected motion uploaded to a memory card.

Other attractive features are the two-way talk and night vision up to 16ft. The remote pan and tilt are also invaluable. You can adjust the angles by 270° horizontally and 60° vertically. That’s a function you can control from your smartphone wherever you happen to be in the world.

The Not So Good

Why so many decent products come with poor instructions is a mystery, this one included. The initial set up is child’s play, but using the features is less clear. I say, forget the quick set up guide and look for an online video tutorial if you run into problems. Another negative is that the motion detection is average. It works in some spaces better than others, but it’s not the cam’s best feature.

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5. Blink XT2 Indoor/Outdoor Security Camera

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Editor’s Rating: 4.4/5

The Ultra-light Blink XT2 Indoor/Outdoor 1080p Security Camera is a bestselling cam for homes. You can use it indoors or outside with total confidence, and it’s 100% wire-free.

• Best feature 1: Compact and versatile security camera
• Best feature 2: 100% wire-free
• Plus points: Easy to set up, free cloud storage, 2-way audio, long battery life, motion detection
• Minus points: No computer access, no local storage, exaggerated battery life

Device Compatibility: Android 5.0, iOS 10.3 smartphones and tablets, and Fire OS 5.1.

Blink XT2 Construction and Set Up

Blink’s XT2 is another security camera with a foolproof set up. It’s 100% wire-free, so it doesn’t need any complicated arrangements or nearby power outlets to function. The cam has an official IP65 rating, so it’s fully weatherproof. It can withstand all outdoor elements, i.e., rain, shine, and extreme temperatures. The camera boasts an extended battery life, but it’s less than the claims.

XT2 1080P Camera Feature Highlights

This portable, put-it-anywhere 1080p camera has a wide 110° field of view (FOV). All footage saves to the FREE cloud service—a real bonus for any security camera. And the XT2’s included features are impressive for such a small unit. Its customizable motion detection lets you set specific activation zones. Users receive motion alerts to a smartphone or other compatible devices.

The camera’s night vision is impressive at close range, though it tends to drop off at the outer limits. The 2-way talk is another welcome extra, as is compatibility with Amazon Alexa devices.

The Not So Good

The main disappointment is not being able to view the camera system online via a computer. The app is great on a smart device, but bigger can be more comfortable on the eyes. Another negative is the absent memory card slot. Free cloud storage is a huge plus, but it’s limited. Blink also has the right to charge for it in the future. Finally, the two-year battery life is grossly exaggerated.

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6. Reolink Outdoor Solar Wireless Security Camera

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Editor’s Rating: 4.3/5

The Reolink Argus 2 is another 100% wire-free 1080p security camera with a rechargeable battery. It gives users the option to use sun power from the included 2+ solar panel. Let’s see what else it offers.

• Best feature 1: Works across multiple devices
• Best feature 2: 100% wire-free cam
• Plus points: Battery/solar-powered, indoors/out, motion detection, alerts, color night vision
• Minus points: Slight motion detection delay, limited free cloud storage

Device Compatibility: iOS and Android smartphones phones and tablets, Windows and Apple Mac computers using the free Reolink app or client.

Reolink Solar Security System Feature Highlights

All you need to get this system up and running is in the box. The Reolink cam uses 2.4Ghz WiFi for easy set up. This unit has a built-in 130° wide-angle lens and an integrated speaker and mic for 2-way audio. It’s a highly portable and versatile 1080p security camera. The product comes with an indoor wall mount, outdoor security mount, and a desktop stand. You can put it wherever it’s needed.

Versatile Security Cam

The Argus 2 1080p has an IP65 rating, so you can safely install it outdoors whatever the weather. The cam can get all-day power from the included solar panel if you live in sunnier climes. For storage, you can use a MicroSD card up to 64GB and exploit the free Reolink Cloud Service. Fee-based Cloud services are available for those who need more space.

A PIR sensor detects motion and sends email or text alerts to your device. Not only that, but you can remotely trigger a 75dB siren or recorded voice warning to fend off intruders. How people customize and tweak these features is up to them and their security requirements. Other features include 33ft color night vision, remote live view, and compatibility with Alexa and Google Assistant.

The Not So Good

There’s a slight delay in the motion detection and detection alerts. How long depends on individual setups, but there are enough comments to know it’s a widespread issue. The Cloud storage basic package is free but limited, as the 8 second video clips are not much use. It’s most likely a taster in the hope that new users consider a better, fee-based plan.

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7. YI 4pc 1080P Home Smart Camera System

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Editor’s Rating: 4.4/5

The penultimate security camera for mobile devices goes to the 4-piece YI 1080p system. It has all the typical features of modern indoor cameras with the addition of a baby monitor.

• Best feature 1: YI Home App supports up to 12 devices
• Best feature 2: Optional 24/7 Emergency Response Service
• Plus points: Motion detection, motion alerts, baby crying detection, night vision, 4 feeds
• Minus points: No wall mounts included, sensitive motion detection

Device Compatibility: YI Home App supports up to 12 devices. Works with iOS and Android smartphones (not Windows Phone) Windows PCs XP and newer OS, and Mac OS.

YI Smart WiFi Camera System Feature Highlights

The design of these cameras is superb, and they can tilt up and down for precise angling. Each unit has an SD card slot, 2-way audio, and a 112° wide-angle lens to record video in clear 1080p HD. The Enhanced Night Vision is also bright and detailed, even in the pitch dark. It uses 8 IR LEDs that turn on automatically once light levels fall. Motion detection and motion alerts work well both day and night.

YI’s dedicated Home App lets you view all cameras simultaneously on a single screen. The app also allows users to customize settings to match personal preferences. That includes adjustments for activity alerts, security schedules, and camera sharing with others.

Unique YI Features

YI’s smart indoor IP WiFi camera system offers a 24/7 Emergency Response Service. This ‘optional’ fee-based feature alerts Certified Emergency Dispatchers during an incident. Not everyone wants it, but it’s a valuable extra for those who do. Baby Crying Detection is another unique addition. It sends alerts to your smartphone or another device once it hears the baby cry.

The Not So Good

You can mount these cameras onto a wall, but the mounts are an extra purchase. That’s a disappointment as some cheaper models include wall mounts in the box. Motion detection works well, but too well sometimes. Quite a few users report false alerts even at the lowest sensitivity setting. The final con is that these cameras only accept MicroSD cards up to 32GB.

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8. Hiseeu Wireless (4pcs) Security Camera System

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Editor’s Rating: 4.5/5

Our last mini-review is for the Hiseeu Wireless 4-camera wireless security system. It’s a popular choice for outdoor security, not least because it’s high-quality, hardwearing, and reliable.

• Best feature 1: Expandable to 8 cameras
• Best feature 2: Easy to set up
• Plus points: 1-way audio, motion detection, alerts, night vision, remote viewing
• Minus points: Poor manual, shortish power cables

Device Compatibility: Most modern smartphones, tablets, laptops, and Windows PCs.

Hiseeu Security System Configuration

This 1080p HD camera system can look daunting after you unbox it, but don’t worry. It’s easy to set up if you skip the guide and use the video tutorials instead. Once the cables are in place, the system is plug-n-play with its full auto-pairing. This set has 4 cameras, but you can expand to 8 if or when you need extra coverage. The cameras have an IP66 rating, so they’re fully weatherproofed.

Hiseeu WiFi NVR

The included network video recorder (NVR) comes with a pre-installed 1TB hard drive (HD). For those unfamiliar with terabytes, it’s equivalent to 100GB or 1,000,000MB. The HD should provide 24 hours continuous recording for 30 days with all cameras on. Searching for video and playback on the NVR is fast. You can search by day, date, hour, or the minutes you need to retrieve.

Hiseeu Camera System Highlights

There’s plenty to like about this 4-camera day/night setup aside from its quality footage. All cameras have infrared sensors. The IR captures bright, detailed footage in pitch darkness up to 90ft. The system sends auto-email alerts when any of its cameras detect motion based on your settings.

The Not So Good

The included manual for this system is poor and of little use to the uninitiated. Don’t let it frustrate you as there’s a Fast Installation Video that’s much better than the written guide. The cameras need power outlets, and some of you may find the included cables a tad short. It’s easy enough to get extensions, but it does mean more cable management. Lastly, the motion detection tends to be overly sensitive.

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