8 Best 2-Way Security Cameras

1. Koogeek 2-Way Audio Home Security Camera | Best Budget

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Editor’s Rating: 4.9/5

The Best Budget pick goes to an affordable home security camera by Koogeek. It has all the features and functions found on more expensive models but for a fraction of the cost.

• Best feature 1: Two-way audio
• Best feature 2: Durable and waterproof
• Plus points: Easy to set up, app control, motion detection, night vision, voice activation
• Minus points: Average quality video, exaggerated night vision

Koogeek Hiseeu Security Camera Build and Set Up

Koogeek made its home WiFi security camera for outdoor use, but it’s an ideal indoor system too. It’s a hardwearing product, waterproofed to iP65 standards. That means it safe to use and continues to function when it rains. It has a 1080p HD camera and a 110° wide-angle lens. There’s a MicroSD slot to support cards up to 128GB (not included). Or, you can save footage to the cloud at an extra cost.

Features and Functions

This camera system is easy to set up and has a plethora of advanced features. The built-in mic and speaker provide effective two-way audio communication via the koogeek life app. Being able to see—and interact with—people at the door is a huge comfort for a lot of people. Other reassuring features include night vision, remote control, and alert notifications.

This camera also supports voice activation and works with Alexa and Google Assistant. That’s one more valuable use if you own Fire TV, Echo Show, and Echo Spot devices.

The Not So Good

The daylight and night vision footage is good average quality, though not exceptional. Don’t get me wrong, the video is perfectly viewable, and that’s what’s most important. But you’re not going to get the tack-sharp excellence found on costlier models. The 60ft night vision range seems exaggerated too. Overall, though, this is a budget-end security system that offers excellent value.

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2. Ring Compact Two-Way Security Camera | Best Value

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Editor’s Rating: 4.5/5

The Best Value security camera is a tiny device for use indoors. The Ring Indoor Cam is an ultra-compact plug-in recorder that you can discretely place anywhere.

• Best feature 1: Two-way audio
• Best feature 2: Live video
• Plus points: Quick install, app control, night vision, motion detection, alerts, Alexa compatible
• Minus points: Short power cable, initial lag in live view

Ring Indoor Security Camera Build and Set Up

This indoor 1080p HD 2.4GHz WiFi security camera is small and well-made. It has 115° horizontal coverage and 60° vertical. You can place it anywhere where there’s a power outlet nearby. It should only take around 5 minutes to set up at most. All you do is plug the camera in and follow a few simple instructions on the free app. That’s it—your space is protected and ready to monitor.

Features and Functions

Ring’s two indoor security cam system has a two-way talk feature with noise cancellation. It also works with voice control, which is handy if you have—and want—Alexa to assist with security. The Ring app’s Live View lets you check-in at any time on one or multiple cams if you have others. Other security features include night vision, motion detection, and real-time notifications/alerts.

The Not So Good

You must plug the Ring Cam into a power outlet for it to work, and that’s okay. What’s less satisfactory is the shortish power cord that it comes with. That means you must place the camera close to a power outlet. Things can get awkward the further away you want to position the unit. Another annoying—though not deal-breaking—matter is the 2+ second initial lag when switching to live view.

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3. ZOSI Wireless 2-Way 4pcs Camera System | Top Pick

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Editor’s Rating: 4.7/5

ZOSI makes the Top Pick slot with its 4-camera security system. These visible eyes look professional and serious to onlookers. Thus, they act as an excellent deterrent against would-be intruders.

• Best feature 1: Two-way audio
• Best feature 2: Plug-n-play simplicity
• Plus points: Rugged build, weatherproof, auto-pair, day/night vision, motion detection, alerts
• Minus points: No voice activation, not battery powered

ZOSI WiFi Cameras Build and Set Up

The ZOSI home security units have a heavy-duty IP66 aluminum housing for all-weather protection. Each one sports a 4mm 1080p HD lens with a 90° angle of view. Twelve powerful built-in infrared (IR) night vision LEDs keep track in the dark up to 30ft. Setting up is a straightforward three-step process. First, plug the cameras into nearby power outlets, connect the ethernet cable, then download the app.

Features and Functions

Users can customize each camera according to specific needs. The option to choose an appropriate recording mode for individual cameras is both practical and space-saving. It’s a sophisticated system but one that offers simple plug-n-play Auto-Pair technology. The main features are the 2-way audio, day & night vision, PIR motion detection, app Alarm Push, and full remote access.

Remote access is available across multiple Android or iOS devices with the ZOSI Cloud app. You can connect the system to an external monitor or Smart TV for local access.

The Not So Good

Voice activation is fast becoming a part of modern living and lifestyle, but this system doesn’t have it. That may be a deal-breaker with folks who have gotten used to virtual digital assistants. These cameras rely on mains power, not batteries. That means they need installing close to power outlets, which makes them a little less flexible when it comes to placement.

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4. BOOCOSA Two-Way Audio Camera System

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Editor’s Rating: 4.6/5

Meet the affordable BOOCOSA 1080p outdoor security surveillance camera. It’s the least expensive product on review here, but it still offers superb value despite the low price tag.

• Best feature 1: Two-way audiovisual
• Best feature 2: Solid construction
• Plus points: Easy-mount shape, weatherproof, motion detection, auto alerts, night/day vision
• Minus points: Large plug, no memory card included, average app

BOOCOSA 2-Way Camera Build and Set Up

BOOCOSA built this 2-way camera to last despite the affordable price tag. Its hardwearing aluminum casing meets IP66 dust and waterproof standards, making it ideal for outdoor use. The shape of this camera is designed in a way that makes it easy to mount into corners. The camera has a built-in lens with a 75° view and 36 non-bright IR lights for clear night vision.

The manual is a tad vague but easy enough to follow nonetheless. It takes a few screws (included) to secure the camera. It’s then a simple case of making a connection via the free JAWA app.

Features and Functions

This camera is not expensive yet sports many features found on costlier systems. Its two-way video lets you see and talk to folks back home wherever you happen to be.

This updated model also includes motion detection and motion alerts sent directly to your smartphone. The JAWA free app is fully compatible with all modern Android and iOS smart devices. The company stands by its product too. There’s a two-month return policy, a three-year warranty, and a promise of lifetime, USA-based, tech support.

The Not So Good

The camera’s plug seems unnecessarily large. That can be a problem when using an outdoor outlet as it makes it more difficult to protect the plug from the elements. There’s not a memory card included though that’s a minor complaint. Cards don’t cost much now but make sure you have one ready if you buy this camera. Finally, the app could use an update. It’s not bad, but it’s not that intuitive either.

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5. TENVIS Full 360° 2-Way Wireless Security Cameras

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Editor’s Rating: 4.5/5

This 2-camera pack by TENVIS is an indoor home security and surveillance system. It’s one to consider if you need reliable 360° coverage—no dead zones—for any of your rooms.

• Best feature 1: Two-way audio
• Best feature 2: One-click installation
• Plus points: App control, 360° cover, remote monitoring, night vision, motion alerts
• Minus points: SD card not included, restricted motion detection

TENVIS Two-Way Camera Build and Set Up

These knock-resistant IP camera units are made from quality plastics and sport a modern design. The rotating lens covers a horizontal angle of 360° and 120° vertically. That means no dead zones and nothing it can’t see. It has 11 built-in IR sensors that cover night vision up to 32ft. To set up a new TENVIS camera, download the app, plug in the device, and scan the QR code for a one-click install.

Features and Functions

Consider the TENVIS if you want a simple, portable, yet highly-effective home security camera. This one is a two-pack, but there are no limits to how many units you can add to the free app. Each camera has a built-in microphone and speakers to allow for real-time audio. Other features are remote monitoring, motion detection & alerts, and the ability to share across three devices.

The Not So Good

This product uses an SD memory card but doesn’t include one. That’s quite typical with a lot of home camera systems. Still, make sure you have a 128GB card ready if you decide to buy it. That should be enough to hold up to 60 days of video storage. A more serious gripe is with motion detection. Some users complain that it can be overly sensitive or not sensitive enough at times.

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6. SV3C 2-Way 1080P Audio Security Camera

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Editor’s Rating: 4.8/5

The SV3C 1080P HD is a 2-pack, 2-way audio security camera kit. The units have a smart modern design. They look genuinely professional when mounted to the outside or interior of any property.

• Best feature 1: Two-way audio
• Best feature 2: Wired and WiFi support
• Plus points: Rugged construction, weatherproof, HD night vision, motion detection, alerts
• Minus points: Poor instructions

SV3C 2-Way Camera Build and Set Up

The material used for the casing of these units is aluminum. They also have an IP66 standard to protect against the outdoor elements. Set up and configuration of the cameras is a snap for anyone with experience or adept at DIY. Others may find the provided guidance less than helpful, especially WiFi (see below for a workaround). The connection can be wired or wireless.

Features and Functions

The CamHi app has a ton of features if you need them, or you can keep everything basic. Users get to view and interact with the cameras from anywhere at any time using a regular smartphone. There’s also an option to check-in via a regular work PC using P2P software. Another neat feature is the Multi-User Viewing. That lets you and other authorized users observe live feeds from different devices.

Users have an option to customize the motion detection based on preferred sensitivity. And the Motion Detection Schedule feature lets you decide what times of day to trigger alarms. The night vision arrangement has 36 IR LED lights that can reach out as far as 67ft. Encrypted video and multi-software compatibility are two more selling points that add to the camera’s value.

The Not So Good

The instructions leave plenty to be desired. It’s the all-too-common problem of inadequate translation. They also tend to be vague in places. My advice—if you’re struggling—is to forget the guide and go online. YouTube is likely the best resource for anyone who needs step-by-step assistance.

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7. Arlo Pro 2 Versatile Two-Way Camera System

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Editor’s Rating: 4.4/5

The penultimate pick goes to the Arlo Pro 2, a bestselling 2-way security camera. You can use these units wired or wireless, indoors, or outside. Let’s look closer at this feature-packed system.

• Best feature 1: Two-way audio interaction
• Best feature 2: Includes cloud storage
• Plus points: Quick set up, wired or wire-free, custom activity zones, phone alerts
• Minus points: intuitive but slow app, average night vision quality

Arlo Pro2 Build and Set Up

The Pro2 has a sleek design, a rugged construction, and is weather resistant to IP65 standards. The built-in camera provides crisp, HD daytime video from its 130° wide-angle lens. The wireless range is around 300ft or 91 meters in ideal conditions. WiFi is welcome, but you need to plug the camera into a power outlet to unlock all the security features. Setting up the Pro2 is fast and super-easy.

Features and Functions

Arlo is a home security outfit with an excellent reputation. This package is the 2-camera system. You can also get up to a 6-camera bundle and then add even more units if you need them. Customizable Activity Zones are invaluable for pinpointing the areas you need alerts from (plugged-in only). This system can work seamlessly with Amazon Alexa, Fire TV, Google Assistant, and others.

Further features and functions include cloud storage, a 100dB smart siren, night vision, and 2-way audio. The wireless setup uses rechargeable batteries, which is always welcome. There’s plenty more to explore when plugged into an indoor or weather-protected outdoor power outlet.

The Not So Good

This camera is popular for lots of reasons, but it’s not perfect. The Arlo app is intuitive and easy to navigate, but it can be painfully slow with some features. The night vision is okay, but it doesn’t seem as clear as the previous model, the Arlo Pro. It’s still viewable, but subpar in comparison. Lastly, some features are only available with the camera plugged into a power outlet.

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8. Ring Motion-Activated 2-Way Security Cam

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Editor’s Rating: 4.6/5

Last on the list is the Ring Security Floodlight Cam. It’s a significant step-up from the budget-priced systems. The Ring camera keeps a close eye on your property whenever you’re home or away.

• Best feature 1: Two-way talk feature
• Best feature 2: 140° horizontal angle
• Plus points: Remote-activated siren, HD video, motion detection, ultra-bright floodlights
• Minus points: Needs a professional set up, no SD card local storage

Ring Security Camera Build and Set Up

This camera system gets its name because it can create an active ring of security around the home. The build quality of the weatherproof Ring Cam is exceptional. That includes its dual, ultra-bright floodlights. The latter has 270° motion sensing that guarantees to illuminate every corner of your property. The incredible brightness of the lights also ensures optimal video quality and capture.

The camera comes with an installation kit and instructions that are easy to follow for an average DIYer. Those who prefer not to hardwire the system themselves should seek professional help. Once set up, the camera works seamlessly with many of the popular smart technologies. Some of those include Amazon Alexa, Samsung, Google Assistant, and Kevo.

Features and Functions

Ring’s Flood Cam sells incredibly well despite the much cheaper competition. Its fully-customizable motion detection easily recognizes faces and objects. The 2-way talk feature lets users see, hear, and talk to intruders or friendly visitors via any smartphone, tablet, or PC. Other features include the powerful remote-activated siren, night vision, and motion alerts.

Point to note: Ring is confident of its Floodlight Cam as a security deterrent. The company even promises to replace the entire unit in the unlikely event it gets stolen. That’s a ‘lifetime’ pledge.

The Not So Good

This is not your typical user-friendly, plug-n-play security camera setup. The Ring Cam must be hardwired to an electrical box. It’s a one-time job, but it may be a deal-breaker for some folks. What surprised me most about this camera is that it doesn’t have a built-in SD card slot. That means Ring Cam owners must pay a subscription for cloud storage to save and playback their footage.

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