finder.com.au
NEW! Download App

Security camera Finder: How to keep an eye on your home

Everything you need to know about buying a security camera including what types are available and how to compare all the options.

Avatar
Sarah Brandon
Updated
Fact checked

We’re reader-supported and may be paid when you visit links to partner sites. We don’t compare all products in the market, but we’re working on it!

Best Security Cameras

Best Rated Security Cameras Brand: Arlo

If you're looking for a great security camera brand, then Arlo is a great choice. It received high scores across the board and was the best rated for value for money.

Quick facts about security cameras

  • Security cameras can give you the peace of mind that everything is OK when you're away from home.
  • The latest cameras make monitoring your home easier than ever, but if you want to monitor your entire home or property, costs can add up quickly.
  • A single camera costs anywhere from $50 to $600 depending on the features it includes.

What's in this guide?

  1. Pros and cons of security cameras
  2. Types of security cameras
  3. How to compare security cameras
  4. Storage options
  5. Deals and coupons for cameras and accessories
  6. Best rated security camera brand award breakdown

Pros and cons of security cameras

Security or IP (Internet protocol) cameras can help protect your loved ones, property and belonging. The latest cameras offer modern features that allow you to interact with those on the other end of the camera, receive alerts and store footage in a variety of ways.

Security cameras are commonly used to do the following:

While security cameras can be an effective way to protect your home or business, they aren't foolproof.

  • Safety and protection are not guaranteed.
  • They can be disabled, disconnected or hacked.
  • Privacy laws dictate how you can use video footage and where you can direct a camera.
  • They can be costly, especially if you need more than one.
What are surveillance cameras

The term surveillance camera or webcam is generally used to refer to cameras that passively observe or record. They offer little to no interaction whereas security cameras can send alerts, set off alarms, pan across a field of view, detect motion and more.

Types of security cameras

Security cameras come in one of two forms: standalone or as part of a monitored system.

Monitored

  • You will typically purchase monitored security systems directly from a security company that will help you choose the right cameras for your space, install the cameras and monitor them. Pricing for monitored security systems is usually subscription based and depends on the number of cameras, storage capacity, features and the amount of surveillance the security company provides

Standalone

  • Most people looking for home or workplace security cameras choose standalone cameras. Despite the name, standalone cameras can connect together to form a network. Modern cameras come with a wide range of features to help you easily control the camera, connect to other smart home devices and keep an eye on your home or business.

How to compare security cameras

Security cameras typically cost between $50 and $600 per camera, depending on the brand and the camera’s features. Depending on the camera, video storage may come at an additional fee.

Before you buy a security camera, consider how you will be using it.

  • Will you keep it in one location or move it around? Do you want to keep an eye on your pets while you’re at work or watch for burglars while on vacation?
  • Do you need to record footage and if so, how do you want to access it
  • Do you need high-resolution video?
  • How much do you want to spend?
  • Do you want to be able to control the camera from your phone or another smart device?

Once you’ve thought about how you want to use your camera, look for the following features:

Bandwidth

Cameras that stream live footage, especially high-resolution footage, use up a lot of bandwidth on your Wi-Fi network.

Audio

Many cameras allow you to record audio in addition to video. Others offer two-way audio so you can use the camera as an intercom to talk to people (or pets).

Lighting

If you will be using the camera in a dark area, consider buying a model with night vision or motion activated lights.

Facial recognition

Cameras with facial recognition allow you to filter out friends and family so that you aren't receiving constant alerts when visitors come over.

Hardware

Think about where you want to mount your security cameras. While some models come with mounting hardware, many offer hardware at an additional cost. You can install most security cameras on walls, ceilings and other flat surfaces.

Storage options

Security cameras offer two main options for storing video footage: cloud storage or on a local device. Most models only offer one or the other but a few cameras, including the Swann Indoor Security Camera and Foscam C2, offer both options.
Cloud storage

  • Cloud storage uses an Internet connection to store your videos on a server or a network of servers. With cloud storage, you can access your footage from anywhere with an Internet connection, but if your Internet connection is interrupted the footage may not be stored properly. Some cameras include a limited amount of free cloud storage. Cloud storage can be scaled indefinitely and cost typically depends on how much storage you need. Most cloud storage is subscription based.

Local storage

  • Local storage devices include microSD cards, hard drives, flash drives, PCs and DVRs. These devices hold a limited amount of video and can only be accessed using the physical device. If the storage device is lost or stolen, the footage will also be lost. Many security cameras offer some form of local storage.

Deals and coupons for cameras and accessories

KoganKogan

Up to 85% off EOFY sale

Enjoy up to 85% off tech, appliances, furniture, and more at Kogan. Hurry while it lasts. T&Cs apply.

Last verified

Get deal
GoProGoPro

$349 off HERO9 black + FREE 64gb SD card and battery

Huge savings on HERO9 black when you subscribe to GoPro. While stocks last. T&Cs apply.

Last verified

Get deal

Deal ends

CatchCatch

Up to 74% off: Technothon Sale

Shop the best deals from Apple, Nintendo Switch, DJI and more at Catch. While stocks last. T&Cs apply.

Last verified

Get deal

Deal ends

eBay AustraliaeBay Australia

20% off Microsoft Surface

Save 20% on selected laptops, headphones and more at eBay. Limited time only. While stocks last. T&Cs apply.

Last verified

Show code

Coupon code ends

AmazonAmazon

Over 30% off everything: Outlet Store

Find thousands of discounted items including beauty, books, clothing, electronics and more at Amazon. While stocks last. T&Cs apply.

Last verified

Get deal
CafagoCafago

Up to 70% off: Clearance sale

Save up to 70% on top-selling products from Huawei, Xiaomi, Netac and more at Cafago. T&Cs apply.

Last verified

Get deal
GeekbuyingGeekbuying

Up to 74% off sale

Get up to 74% off earphones, cameras, mobiles and more at Geekbuying. T&Cs apply.

Last verified

Get deal
Zotim Zotim

Up to 50% off clearance sale

Shop and enjoy a wide range of discounts at Zotim. Exclusions, T&Cs apply.

Last verified

Get deal
GoProGoPro

$239 off HERO9 black bundle

Enjoy big savings on HERO9 black bundle when you subscribe to GoPro. While stocks last. T&Cs apply.

Last verified

Get deal

Deal ends

Appliances OnlineAppliances Online

Up to 30% off TV, audio and electronics

Save up to 30% on Philips, Sony, LG and more from Appliances Online. While stocks last. T&Cs apply.

Last verified

Get deal

Best rated security camera brand award breakdown

Total Score Overall rating Value for Money Ease of Installation Features Picture Quality
Arlo 8.08 4.49 4.28 4.19 4.34 4.19
Jaycar 7.95 4.45 4.03 4.24 4.24 4.17
D-Link 7.9 4.43 4.25 4.25 4.28 4.1
Swann 7.82 4.26 4.26 4.4 4.28 4.14
Uniden 7.82 4.32 4.28 4.28 4.4 4.24
Ring 7.81 4.29 3.93 4.4 4.29 4.27
Netgear 7.57 4.13 4.26 4.09 4.23 3.94
Xiaomi 7.55 4.28 4.28 3.89 3.89 4.28
Google Nest 7.44 4.02 4.08 4.2 4.08 4.16
Kogan 7.37 4.07 3.93 3.78 3.91 3.96
Eufy 7.33 3.95 4.05 3.86 4.05 4.23
Other 7.28 3.96 3.96 3.88 3.73 4.12
Data: Finder Retail Brand Survey, 2020, Kantar. Metric out of 5 stars unless indicated. Methodology and more info. Kantar logo

More guides on Finder

Ask an Expert

You are about to post a question on finder.com.au:

  • Do not enter personal information (eg. surname, phone number, bank details) as your question will be made public
  • finder.com.au is a financial comparison and information service, not a bank or product provider
  • We cannot provide you with personal advice or recommendations
  • Your answer might already be waiting – check previous questions below to see if yours has already been asked

Finder only provides general advice and factual information, so consider your own circumstances, or seek advice before you decide to act on our content. By submitting a question, you're accepting our Terms of Use, Disclaimer & Privacy Policy and Privacy & Cookies Policy.
Go to site