To achieve comprehensive home security, homeowners need more than just reliable front door locks. Security involves multiple layers of protection, including active and passive security measures. While door locks serve as active security, outdoor security cameras play a crucial role in passive security. In this blog post, we’ll explore the top five outdoor security cameras that provide optimal perimeter protection for your home.
Best Choice for 2023: First Choice Locksmith
Home security is not complete without the right outdoor cameras. The right outdoor security cameras help protect your home’s perimeter and provide crucial surveillance capabilities. Here are the top five outdoor security cameras for 2023:
1. Netgear Arlo Pro 2
The Netgear Arlo Pro 2 stands as the best outdoor security camera for homeowners. While it shares similarities with the Nest Cam Outdoor, the Arlo Pro 2 outshines the competition in crucial areas. It boasts a 130-degree viewing angle and crisp 1080p HD video quality, ensuring it captures every detail.
The camera is built to withstand harsh weather conditions, with an operational temperature range of -4°F to 113°F (-20°C to 45°C). It offers multiple storage options, including local storage via USB connection and free cloud-based storage (up to 7 days, expandable with subscriptions). The Arlo Pro 2 is versatile, supporting both wireless and wired setups, with a battery lasting up to five months.
Additional features include an audible smart security siren, motion and audio detection, and two-way audio communication. With a price point of $456, it includes a base station and two camera units, making it a cost-effective choice for comprehensive home security.
[Buy Netgear Arlo Pro 2 on Amazon](Amazon Product URL)
2. Nest Cam Outdoor
Nest, a well-known brand in smart home devices, introduces the Nest Cam Outdoor, specifically designed for outdoor use. This camera shares the Nest Cam’s 1080p HD video resolution and can be installed in various outdoor locations.
The Nest Cam Outdoor is weather-resistant, with an operational range of -4°F to 104°F (-20°C to 40°C), ensuring it functions in extreme weather conditions. While it requires a power source, it comes with a 25-foot extension cord for flexible placement.
This camera offers night vision and motion-triggered video recording. It can be accessed remotely via a mobile application, providing convenient surveillance. The Nest Cam Outdoor comes at a retail price of $149, making it an affordable choice for homeowners.
[Buy Nest Cam Outdoor on Amazon](Amazon Product URL)
3. Logitech Circle 2
The Logitech Circle 2, an improved version of the original Logi Circle, is a reliable outdoor security camera. It features 1080p high-definition video quality, ensuring clear footage of your home’s exterior.
Unlike wireless options, the Logi Circle 2 requires a power source, limiting its placement flexibility. However, a wireless model is available at a higher cost, along with a weatherproof extension cable for versatile installation. It offers a 180-degree viewing angle and 1080p HD video quality.
The Logi Circle 2 provides night vision, two-way audio, and motion alerts. While it only offers motion-based alerts (unlike audio-based alerts in the top choices), its $139 price tag makes it a cost-effective solution, especially for those familiar with smart home devices.
[Buy Logi Circle 2 on Amazon](Amazon Product URL)
4. Canary Flex
The Canary Flex offers a range of features at an attractive price point of $137. While it may not be the best outdoor security camera, it’s worth considering. It captures 720p video over a 116-degree viewing area, which is smaller than the top choices, potentially leading to obscured images.
The Canary Flex includes night vision, allowing 24/7 recording. It offers a competitive option to the Logi Circle 2, depending on your priorities as a homeowner. The power source, like the Netgear Arlo Pro 2, features a rechargeable battery and a power adapter, providing placement flexibility.
[Buy Canary Flex on Amazon](Amazon Product URL)
5. Flir FX
The Flir FX camera aims for versatility but falls slightly short due to its outdoor retrofitting. While it’s not built as an outdoor camera, it can withstand some outdoor conditions. It offers multiple storage options, including local and cloud-based storage, similar to the Netgear Arlo Pro 2.
The Flir FX provides 720p video quality and a 160-degree viewing angle. Night vision, two-way audio, and motion and sound alerts are part of its features. The Flir FX’s main drawback is its outdoor performance compared to the top choices on this list.
[Buy Flir FX on Amazon](Amazon Product URL)
Differences Between Indoor and Outdoor Cameras
Using indoor cameras for outdoor surveillance is not recommended due to key differences. Outdoor cameras must endure various weather conditions and cover wider areas. To choose the best outdoor security camera, you should consider the following factors:
Focus Range
Select an outdoor camera with an appropriate focus range to capture clear footage within your desired area.
Image and Video Resolution
Consider the image and video resolution for optimal clarity, especially for cameras positioned farther from the ground.
Weather Resistance
Outdoor cameras should withstand extreme temperatures and adverse weather conditions, ensuring uninterrupted performance.
Night Vision
Night vision capabilities are crucial for 24/7 surveillance, regardless of lighting conditions.
Recording Storage
Evaluate storage options, such as local storage within the camera and subscription-based cloud storage, to meet your needs.
Power Supply
Choose between wired and wireless cameras based on your power source preferences. Ensure the camera functions reliably with the chosen power supply.
Remote Access
Remote access allows you to control and view camera footage from anywhere, enhancing convenience and security.
Cost
Consider your budget when selecting an outdoor security camera, as costs vary among available options.
In conclusion, selecting the right outdoor security camera is essential for your home’s safety. The five cameras highlighted in this article offer a range of features, pricing, and flexibility to meet various homeowners’ needs. Your choice may vary based on your priorities, so evaluate all factors and select the camera that best safeguards your perimeter.
