Most Affordable Home Security Cameras
Our #1 pick, SimpliSafe, regularly offers deals that include free security cameras with the purchase of a basic security system.
&
Last Updated on Mar 19, 2026
- No monthly fee or installation fee required
- Package deals starting at $250 regularly include free cameras
- Flexible monitoring plans you can cancel anytime
- Sales can include free Nest Cams with a $289 purchase
- Best-in-class professional monitoring starts at $24.99 per month
- Free DIY installation
- No additional charge for full Alexa integration
- Save up to $20 a year when you sign up for an annual monitoring subscription
- A single subscription covers unlimited cameras at one address
Putting up security cameras is one of the quickest ways to upgrade your home security — but the costs can pile up fast depending on how many you need. Indoor cameras typically run $50 or more, and outdoor cameras can easily set you back $100 to $300 each.
We know all that because we regularly test security cameras. That’s part of what we do here. We also know that there are some really good options out there that cost way less than the industry average. We’re talking about indoor cameras starting as low as $19.99 and outdoor cameras as low as $99.99. And they’re not cheaply built either. Some actually come with advanced features like person detection and even facial recognition. Intrigued? Let’s take a look at our favorite affordable security cameras.
Our Affordable Security Camera Findings
| Camera prices | $19.99-$179.99 |
|---|---|
| Local storage | Some, not all |
| Cloud storage cost | $2.99 to $19.99/month |
| Average video quality | 1080p HD |
Most Affordable Home Security Cameras
- SimpliSafe - Best Long-Term Value
- ADT - Best Security Camera Discounts
- Ring - Best Cam for Alexa
- Wyze Cam - Most Affordable Cam Overall
- Nest - Most Affordable Google Security Camera
- Arlo - Best Low-Cost 2K Security Camera
- Blink Camera - Most Affordable Outdoor Security Camera
Comparison of the Most Affordable Home Security Cameras
| System |
SimpliSafe
|
ADT
|
Ring
|
Wyze Cam
|
Nest
|
Arlo
|
Blink Camera
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ranking | 1st | 2nd | 3rd | 4th | 5th | 6th | 7th |
| Ratings | 9.8/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.3/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.4/10 |
| Cost | Starts at $149.99 | Starts at $99.99 | Starts at $49.99 | Starts at $25.98 | Starts at $99.99 | Starts at $39.99 | Starts at $29.99 |
| Minimum Cloud Storage Fee | Starts at $9.99 per month | Starts at $8 per month | Starts at $4.99 per month | Starts at $2.99 per month | Starts at $10 per month | Starts at $7.99 per month | Starts at $3.33 per month |
| Professional Monitoring | Starts at $22.99 per month | Starts at $24.99 per month | Starts at $19.99 per month | Starts at $8.33 per month | Not Available | Starts at $24.99 per month | Not Available |
| Read Review | SimpliSafe Review | ADT Review | Ring Review | Wyze Cam Review | Nest Review | Arlo Review | Blink Camera Review |
Detailed List of the Most Affordable Home Security Cameras
-
1. SimpliSafe - Best Long-Term Value
Product Specs
Equipment Costs Packages starting at $250.96 Monitoring Options Professional and DIY Monthly Monitoring Costs Starts at $22.99 per month Contract Lengths Month-to-month Installation Options DIY or professional Smart Platform Integration Alexa and Google Home When just looking at retail prices, you might wonder how SimpliSafe topped our list of the most affordable security cameras. Well, like ADT, SimpliSafe regularly runs sales that include free security cameras with the purchase of any security system which typically starts around $200.
>> Check Out: Compare SimpliSafe vs ADT Home Security
Camera Features
We installed our SimpliSafe Outdoor Camera on our wooden fence in our frontyard so it could see our entryway and garage. SimpliSafe offers some unique features with their security cameras. Their Indoor Wireless Camera connects to their monitoring center so that their agents can access it during active alarms. They use the live feed to assess the situation and the cameras two-way talk to scare off potential threats while guiding you to safety.
Personal Experience: While testing this feature, we walked into the office late at night to pick up some paperwork we forgot and the stern voice of SimpliSafe’s monitoring agent gave us a big jumpscare. Once we told them our PIN, we both had a laugh, but if we were a burglar, it would have caused us to scram.
Similarly, SimpliSafe’s Outdoor Camera also offers active monitoring except it triggers intervention when it detects a potential threat with its AI analytics. When it detects a threat, SimpliSafe monitoring agents can use both the outdoor cameras and the Video Doorbell Pro we tested.
Monitoring Plans
We always closed the privacy shutter of our SimpliSafe Wireless Indoor Camera when home. Those two active monitoring features we talked about above require specific professional monitoring plans. Intervention using the Indoor Camera requires at least SimpliSafe’s Core plan whereas overnight outdoor protection requires SimpliSafe’s Pro plan and 24/7 protection requires SimpliSafe’s Pro Plus plan. Here’s an overview of SimpliSafe’s pricing for monitoring:
Monitoring Plan Price Per Month Standard Monitoring $22.99 Core Monitoring $32.99 Pro Monitoring $49.99 Pro Plus Monitoring $79.99 FYI: All of SimpliSafe’s monitoring plans, aside from their Standard monitoring plan, include cloud storage for up to 10 cameras. You can also opt out of any subscriptions for free or choose the self-monitoring plan with cloud storage for $9.99 per month.
Free DIY Installation
SimpliSafe’s bread and butter is DIY installation. They offer one of the easiest systems we’ve installed. It only takes us about 30 minutes to install the whole system, not including the hardwired Video Doorbell Pro. That component takes about an hour to install as we needed to remove our old doorbell and connect it to the old wiring.
-
2. ADT - Best Security Camera Discounts
Product Specs
Resolution Up to 2K Field of View Up to 152 degrees Power Wired, battery Connectivity Wi-Fi, ethernet Video Storage Cloud Smart Platform Compatibility Alexa You really can’t beat free and that’s exactly what ADT delivers. Sometimes, their deals sound too good to be true. That age-old saying doesn’t apply to ADT, though, as we can confirm their deals are real. ADT’s deals regularly include free Nest Cams with the purchase of a security system. Best of all, you won’t be locked into any long-term contract, either, as long as you DIY your install.
>> Read More: Best DIY Home Security Systems of 2026
Camera Features
We put the $99.99 Google Nest Cam (wired) on our desk to keep an eye on our office. Since ADT uses Google Nest Cams, you’ll get all the features that come with them if you buy directly from Google. That includes all of their AI features like facial recognition, Google Home and Alexa integration, and customizable alerts.
Those features are great and all, but pairing them with ADT unlocks some unique capabilities like Trusted Neighbor. With that, you can automatically disarm your door to allow specific people in your home. For example, we set ours up to let our dog walker in every Thursday at 10:30 and then again at 11:15 for when they get back. After they leave, our system arms again keeping our house secure the whole time.
Expert Insight: While you might worry about using a camera’s facial recognition software to let people into your home, it’s surprisingly accurate. A recent study found that facial recognition software, like the one Google uses, provides accurate detection over 99 percent of the time.1
Monitoring Plans
We proudly placed the ADT yard sign that comes with their system in front of our house to ward off criminals. Another optional perk you can take advantage of when you buy Google Nest Cams through ADT is professional monitoring. Plans start at $24.99 per month for the Self Setup, though the most popular plans with video and smart home features start higher. Keep in mind, though, that the Trusted Neighbor feature is only available on the top-tier plan. It’s a premium price, but that plan bundles in a Google Home Premium subscription with cloud storage included, which adds real value to the package.
Installation Options
While we love ADT’s professional installation service, after testing ADT Self Setup, we actually recommend a DIY install for most people. Installing any of the components, aside from the Nest Cam Floodlight, is easy. Plus, you don’t get locked into a long-term contract and ADT offers lower monitoring rates for their DIY systems.
Pro Tip: If you’re buying a Nest Cam Floodlight, we recommend a professional installation. Even when you buy directly from Google, they recommend hiring an electrician to install it. That’s because these cameras are hardwired so unless you’re comfortable with electrical wiring, it’s best to leave it to the pros.
-
3. Ring - Best Cam for Alexa
View on Amazon Links to Amazon.com
Product Specs
Resolution Up to 4K UHD Field of View Up to 164 degrees Power Wired, battery, PoE, solar Connectivity Wi-Fi, ethernet Video Storage Cloud Smart Platform Compatibility Alexa and Google Home
Selling for just $49.99, the new Ring Indoor Cam is the most affordable Alexa-friendly security camera. While other home security brands are Alexa compatible, Ring’s integration with Alexa is especially smooth. That’s to be expected, as Ring and Alexa are sister companies both owned by Amazon. The Ring Alexa skill lets you manage Ring indoor and outdoor cameras and other Ring devices: doorbell cameras, smart lights, smart locks and sirens.
Ring Indoor Cam (2nd Gen) Ring requires a paid cloud subscription to actually record and store footage. Without one, you can stream live video and get motion alerts, but that’s it. Fortunately, Ring’s cloud plans are pretty reasonable. For a single camera, the Ring Basic plan runs $4.99 per month and stores videos for up to 180 days — that’s nearly six times longer than the typical 30-day industry standard. Got multiple cameras? The Ring Plus plan at $9.99 per month covers unlimited Ring devices in your home.
There’s also a premium tier called AI Pro, which layers in AI-powered features like video descriptions and intelligent alerts, plus 24/7 professional monitoring — though that last part requires a Ring Alarm security system. This plan runs $19.99 per month.
Camera Features
Ring’s Indoor Cam has a simple name and advanced features. Specs include:
- USB power cord
- 115° field of view
- Two-way voice with noise cancellation
- Motion detection
- Motion zones
- Up to 180 days of cloud storage per clip
- Best Alexa skill
- Compatible with Google Assistant
- Works with IFTTT
- Neighborhood crime alerts available with free Ring Neighbors app
It’s an impressive set of features for a camera under $50. Are there any “cons” to balance the perks? One possible shortcoming is the lack of backup battery power. Another is the lack of digital zoom. However, with its wide viewing field and crisp resolution, the Ring Indoor Cam can still capture lots of valuable footage as long as it’s powered. If power is cut, a snapshot of the last view will be sent to your account.
>> Another affordable camera option: Defender Security Cameras
Paid Plans with Ring
As mentioned above, you can use Ring security cameras without monthly fees. To get more from the devices though, choose a Ring Protect plan. These contract-free plans can be month-to-month and are even more affordable when you pay for a year upfront. Each is offered with a free 30-day trial and includes lifetime camera theft protection, too.
All in all, Ring is a flexible and affordable solution for DIY or professional camera monitoring. Cloud storage and professional monitoring are contract-free and available without a credit check. Ring home security cameras are under warranty for one year from the date of purchase. Extended warranties are activated with paid service.
-
4. Wyze Cam - Most Affordable Cam Overall
View on Amazon Links To Amazon
Product Specs
Resolution Up to 2.5K Field of View Up to 134 degrees Power Plug-in, battery Connectivity Wi-Fi Storage Cloud, local Smart Platform Compatibility Alexa and Google Home
Wyze continues to impress budget-conscious home security shoppers with a solid lineup of cameras under $50. The entry-level Wyze Cam v4 starts at $34.99 MSRP, and the Wyze Pan Cam ($33.99 MSRP for the Pan v3) is a great step up thanks to its automatic 360-degree rotation. Both Wyze cameras are plug-in models with power cords. With a few screws they can attach to shelves, walls, ceilings and other flat surfaces.
Wyze Cam and its packaging Not only is the equipment affordable, but Wyze also doesn’t require any monthly fees. That’s what really sets this brand apart. It’s not the only one that offers $30 indoor cameras, but it’s one of the few that offers a microSD card local storage option. There are optional cloud storage subscriptions, but you won’t really need them if you’re content with managing your microSD card’s (sold separately) storage.
Beyond free storage, Wyze cameras offer smart detection features like person detection and pet detection. Those are also free, unlike options like Blink that hides those more advanced features behind a paywall.
Wyze has expanded its lineup considerably too. Newer additions include the Wyze Cam Outdoor v2, Wyze Cam Pan v3, Wyze Video Doorbell Pro, Wyze Cam Floodlight v2, and Wyze Cam OG Telephoto — all priced competitively for what they offer.
Security Camera Features
Features of most Wyze cameras include:
- Power cord for AC outlet
- Up to 130-degree field of view
- Up to 2K QHD resolution
- 8x zoom on livestream
- Two-way audio
- Triggered by motion or sound
- Motion detection zones let you exclude part of the viewing field
- Smart sound detection indicates if a smoke detector siren or other alarm has sounded
- Affordable cloud storage starting at $2.99 per month
- Compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant
- Works with IFTTT
- MicroSD card slot for continuous recording to local storage
The extra advantage of the Pan Cam is its 360-degree spin. This camera has the same 121-degree lens as Wyze Cam V3, but it follows a rotation schedule to surveille more territory. You can specify up to four specific stopping points for motion detection and recording.
Beyond Cameras…
Wyze cams can help build simple multi-part security systems. The Wyze Sense Hub lets you connect any Wyze camera to a full security system — and when an external sensor is triggered, your camera automatically starts recording.
Smart light bulbs can join your home security system too. You can set your lights to follow schedules, and also control them by voice.
What’s the Catch?
Why are Wyze cameras so cheap? Some shortcomings come to mind. Also consider:
- There’s no battery backup, so you won’t have video surveillance if your home’s power goes out. Battery backup is available only with the Wyze Cam Outdoor and the Wyze Battery Cam Pro.
- You’ll compromise on night vision with Wyze cams. Other affordable security cameras provide better clarity.
- The Alexa voice assistant integration is disappointing to many customers. The best brand for Alexa-friendly security cameras is Ring, as explained in the following review.
To sum up, Wyze features the cheapest home security cameras overall and the best home security cameras under $50. Cam Unlimited, which covers all your Wyze cameras, costs $9.99 per month and includes 14 days of rolling cloud storage for motion- and sound-triggered events. You can also avoid monthly fees altogether with continuous recording on a microSD card.
-
5. Nest - Most Affordable Google Security Camera
View on Amazon Links to Amazon.com
Product Specs
Resolution Up to 2K with HDR Field of View Up to 152° Power Wired, battery Connectivity Wi-Fi Video Storage Cloud Smart Platform Compatibility Alexa and Google Home
You’re probably used to seeing expensive security cameras from Nest, but that’s a thing of the past now. Nest’s newer generation cameras still offer top-quality features without the expensive price tag attached to their predecessors.
Google Nest Cam The most budget-friendly indoor camera in Google Nest’s lineup is the Nest Cam (indoor, wired, 2nd gen). It runs $99.99 — yes, that’s pricier than most cameras on this list — but the feature set genuinely justifies the cost.
It has a 1080p HD resolution improved by HDR, an excellent night vision, person detection, and a sound quality better than most security cameras on the market.
For another $80, you can upgrade to the Nest Cam (battery). For $179.99, this camera takes the Nest Cam Indoor’s features outdoors. The Nest Cam Battery is weatherproof, plus it’s powered by a battery, so you can use it wire-free. There’s also a wired outdoor model with 2K resolution — the Nest Cam with Floodlight — available for $279.99.
Paid cloud storage is optional month-to-month. All Nest cameras send free smartphone alerts when triggered by motion. Also, they save snapshots of the event and send them to the cloud for three hours.
Google Nest Indoor Cam Features
- 10-ft USB power cord
- 152° field of view
- High-quality night vision with 8 LEDs
- Two-way audio
- Motion detection
- Motion zones
- Google Assistant integration
- Facial recognition
- Up to 60 days of cloud storage per clip
- Works with IFTTT and Google Home
Monitoring Plans
If you need more cloud storage, or to unlock features like facial recognition, you can go for Google Home Premium, a $10 monthly cost. This plan provides 30 days of cloud storage for all your Nest cameras. This cloud plan stores videos recorded automatically when the cameras detect motion or loud sound.
Moreover, you can expand your cameras’ event storage to 60 days, plus get 10 days of continuous recording. This plan, Google Home Premium Advanced, costs $20 per month or $200 per year.
Simple DIY Installation
For easy installation Nest indoor cameras plugin and run over home Wi-Fi. You can simply connect the wireless app, set your camera on a shelf, and consider it installed! For the best security though, take about ten minutes to secure the camera with screws. It can easily attach to a wall, ceiling, or other flat surfaces.
Nest camera purchase includes a two-year warranty and a 30-day free trial.
-
6. Arlo - Best Low-Cost 2K Security Camera
View on Walmart Links to Walmart.com
Product Specs
Resolution Up to 4K HD Field of View Up to 180° Power Wired, battery, solar, PoE Connectivity Wi-Fi, ethernet Video Storage Cloud Smart Platform Compatibility Alexa and Google Home
Arlo Technologies is a wireless camera company focused on DIY security. This Silicon Valley brand is very well-established; it’s traded as ARLO on the NYSE and about three million households have registered their cameras. With Arlo, you’ll get the best value DIY security cameras in terms of equipment price, quality, and cost for daily use. The selection is diverse and each cam has an impressive suite of features. You’ll get two-way audio, crisp resolution in any light, activity zones, and many more features. The portable Arlo Baby cam can even play lullabies and monitor air quality.
Arlo Pro 5S 2k Prices for Arlo indoor-only cameras start at $39.99 for the Arlo Essential Indoor. Cloud plans that also unlock AI features start at $7.99 per month for an annual subscription.
Free vs Paid Arlo Monitoring
With free or paid service, Arlo Essential and all other Arlo cameras will send you alerts about sound and motion. However, Arlo’s cameras do not offer internal storage, so a cloud plan is required to record footage.
Step up to a paid plan starting at $9.99 per month and you’ll get 30 days of cloud storage. If you want to cover unlimited cameras, that jumps to $19.99 per month — still a solid deal for a multi-camera setup with advanced smart features.
The top-tier $24.99 Arlo plan activates professional monitoring and cellular backup for Arlo’s home security system. But, we mainly recommend them for their security cameras and the professional monitoring does not work for the security cameras, so we recommend sticking with one of the cloud storage plans.
Arlo Essential Features
- 2K resolution
- 130° field of view
- Motion zones (Set up to three)
- Infrared night vision
- Two-way audio
- Compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant
- Works with IFTTT
- Local storage available with an Arlo SmartHub
Installing an Arlo Essential takes about 10 minutes. You’ll connect a mobile app, attach the magnetic camera base to a flat surface, and snap the camera into place.
Arlo Essential cameras carry a one-year warranty and have a money-back guarantee. For $99.99, they’re the best value in DIY home video surveillance.
-
7. Blink Camera - Most Affordable Outdoor Security Camera
View on Amazon Links to Amazon.com
Product Specs
Resolution Up to 2K Field of View Up to 143° Power Battery or Plug-In Connectivity Wi-Fi Video Storage Cloud Smart Platform Compatibility Alexa
Blink, an Amazon-owned company, is a discount security camera company focused on feature-rich but affordable cameras. It has a mix of indoor and outdoor cameras, video doorbells, and camera accessories like solar mounts and floodlight mounts.
Blink Outdoor 4 Camera The priciest camera in Blink’s lineup is the Blink Outdoor 4, which retails for $99.99. That’s a genuinely competitive price for an outdoor security camera — especially when you consider that comparable models from other brands routinely cost $150 or more.
Blink Outdoor isn’t your regular outdoor camera either. It’s wire-free, meaning, it runs off of battery power that, according to Blink, can last up to two years on a single charge. The more you use the camera’s two-way voice feature, live streaming, and motion recording, however, the faster the batteries will drain.
This affordable outdoor camera has an IP65 enclosure, which means it’s dust-tight and is safe against water splashes. Other features include:
- Long-lasting lithium batteries for indoor/outdoor use
- Optional USB power for indoor use only (Not weatherproof)
- Up to 2K resolution
- 143° field of view
- Infrared night vision
- Motion sensor
- Motion zones
- Two-way voice
- Temperature sensor
- Compatible with Amazon Alexa
- Free cloud storage
The Blink Alexa skill lets you arm and disarm the Blink Outdoor via an Amazon Echo speaker. It also lets Alexa send video to Amazon Echo screens.
Overall, Blink Outdoor can be a best value for DIY outdoor video security. You’ll get 1080p resolution by day, infrared night vision, and other features found on higher-priced cameras. However, it lacks free cloud storage. Rather, you’ll need to pay $3.99 per month to record motion events from one camera for 60 days, or $11.99 per month for the same amount of storage for unlimited cameras.
Methodology: Key Features We Looked For in Our Top Budget Home Security Cameras
How We Tested Our Top Budget Cameras
Our home security guides are the result of hundreds of hours of careful research and hands-on testing. In the case of budget home security cameras, this meant retesting equipment we’ve tested before to see if we could actually secure our homes using less expensive models with limited features sets.
How We Ranked the Best Budget Cameras
When ranking our top picks, we paid special attention to the specs and features our budget-minded readers are looking for: high-quality video (day and night), accurate and timely alerts, and extra functionality to make their homes safer.
- Video quality (40%): Though 720p gives reasonably sharp footage, all the cameras on this list all go one step further with 1080p resolution for better monitoring day and night.
- Free smartphone alerts (30%): Some security providers charge extra for features like rich notifications and cloud storage. This is reasonable. However, the budget cameras we recommend had to be completely functional, sending alerts when they detected motion and giving us access to live streams. Free local storage was also a plus.
- Extra features (30%): Night vision is a must for low-light spaces. Motion tracking and the ability to talk to intruders and sound an alarm if necessary are also useful features we like to see. All the cameras on this list offer some additional security functionality.
>> Related: Best No-Fee Security Cameras
The Security.Org Team
We’re a team of security professionals who research and write about all things home and digital security. Together, we’ve written over 1,000 articles and studies, a number of which have been cited in top publications like HuffPost, The New York Times, The Washington Post, and Tech Radar.
- Gene Petrino is a former SWAT Commander and home security expert.
- Corey Birnstengel is a top home security and cybersecurity influencer. He’s installed and reviewed over 200 security cameras.
- Brett Cruz is our resident digital safety expert. He leads our security team in all things VPN and Antivirus.
- Paul Frew is an expert in home security and family safety. He tests and reviews security cameras, doorbell cameras, and home security systems.
- Cort Honey is an engineer with a focus on digital security. He heads our Identity Theft and Data Removal software unit.
Our milestones:
600+ written product reviews and counting
450+ video reviews on our YouTube channel
100+ research and studies
50+ guides on home, personal, and digital safety topics
Our Verdict: Are Affordable Cameras Reliable?
ADT, Ring, Wyze, Nest, Arlo, and Blink offer some of the most affordable cameras in the market today, and the truth is, they are also some of the best security camera brands. So yes, they are reliable despite their lower price.
Securing your home doesn’t need to be expensive, so if you’re on a budget, check out the brands we mentioned above.
Frequently Asked Questions About Affordable Security Cameras
-
Will an affordable security camera keep my home safe?
While an affordable security camera alone won’t guarantee your home’s safety, it is a great first step to securing your home. Visible security cameras act as an effective deterrent against crime.
-
Do cheap security cameras break easily?
Generally speaking, cheap security cameras will break easier than their more expensive counterparts. However, if you pick your camera carefully, you can get a sturdy security camera for under $60.
-
Can I store footage on an affordable security camera?
Most security cameras give you the option to store footage locally or through a cloud storage plan. For local storage, you’ll typically need a microSD card — a one-time cost of around $10 to $25. Cloud storage subscriptions usually run $3 to $20 per month depending on the provider and how much storage you need.
-
Will an affordable security camera produce clear video?
The quality of the video produced from an affordable security camera depends on its technical specs. We recommend a camera that records in at least 1080p HD resolution with a field of view of at least 115 degrees. You can also check screenshots of users, such as us, to see the video quality for yourself.
-
What’s the difference between an affordable and expensive security camera?
More expensive cameras typically offer better technical specs — think higher resolution or advanced features like facial recognition and package detection. They also tend to integrate more seamlessly with other home security systems and smart home ecosystems.
-
arXiv. (2025). Accuracy and Fairness of Facial Recognition Technology in Low-Quality Police Images: An Experiment With Synthetic Faces. https://arxiv.org/html/2505.14320v1
