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The Best IP and DVR Cameras for Security in 2018

*The data in this table may update every week because the changes for each web hosting provider’s features are tracked regularly. Last Update was on February 15, 2018 @ 09:57:54 EDST




1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10

Nest Camera
See Review

Hikivision DS-2CD3132
See Review

Lynx Solar Camera
See Review

Amcrest Security Camera
See Review

Swann SWNVW-485
See Review

Arlo Smart Home
See Review

TriVision NC-336PW
See Review

VideoSecu Camera
See Review

Hikvision DS-2CD2032-I
See Review

Foscam FI9900PR
See Review
Price
Price
~$188.92
Price
~$103.00
Price
~$199.99
Price
~$389.99
Price
~$149
Price
~$209.99
Price
~$229.99
Price
~$82.99
Price
Price
~$100.00
Security
Security
Security
Security
Security
Security
Security
Security
Security
Security
Security
OS OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

Wireless
Wireless
Wireless
Wireless
Wireless
Wireless
Wireless
Wireless
Wireless
Wireless
Wireless
Video Quality
Video Quality
1080p
Video Quality
1080p
Video Quality
1080p
Video Quality
1080p
Video Quality
1080p
Video Quality
720p
Video Quality
1080p
Video Quality
1080p
Video Quality
1080p
Video Quality
1080p
Night Vision Distance
Night Vision Distance
90ft
Night Vision Distance
90ft
Night Vision Distance
100ft
Night Vision Distance
65ft
Night Vision Distance
75ft
Night Vision Distance
66ft
Night Vision Distance
55ft
Night Vision Distance
50ft
Night Vision Distance
90ft
Night Vision Distance
100ft
Field Of VIew
FOV
130°
FOV
86°
FOV
85°
FOV
86°
FOV
75°
FOV
85°
FOV
85°
FOV
85°
FOV
98°
FOV
98°


How to Choose the Right Smart Surveillance Camera System for You?




Outdoor monitoring in order to increase home security is a booming market, since it is a cheap method to help protect your home or property. But there are many devices out there on different prices, offering an extremely vast number of different options. So the best thing to consider is to focus on what is the right solution based on what are your own preferences when it comes to camera security. This is why we have aligned several important questions that you need to come forward with yourself before actually choosing the right security camera for you, even if it’s not the best one in this list.

What is the surveillance area that you would like to cover with your security camera?

Most cameras have variable viewing angle which allows them to monitor a lot more area in square metres in comparison to traditional IP cameras. This is why, if you want to cust costs and are dealing with a location which is wide, it is reccomended to focus on wider field of view (FOV) when choosing cameras.

What quality of the image and recording is acceptable for you?
A very important factor is how much you are willing to compromise when it comes to camera quality which again, depends on your situation. If your camera is located on a wide area and you would like to see what is going on far away in your area of surveillance, you should focus more on HD cameras with higher pixel rate and higher zoom capabilities and more storage to save the higher quality video.

Does the security camera feature night vision and what type is it?

Some security cameras have level 1 night vision which is pleain and simple and sufficient enough if you want to focus on catching burglars in your home. But if you wamnt more than that, simple IR (Infrared) on the cameras fro night vision wont cut it. You will need higher level of night vision capabilities and some consumers even go military by purchasing cameras with thermal vision, catching hidden objects. Again, it all depends on the terrain you are surveying and the more LEDs used in a camera, the farther range the device has.

What is the camera’s appearance?
There are old school cameras which look just like what they are meant to be and they show the direction to which they are pointed at. These are extremely convenient if you want the intruders to know they are being watched, but their weakness is the direction they are pointing at. There are more concealed camers out there as well, which are similar to a half-ball and are definitely a good choice, since they do not reveal information to where they are pointed at and crooks are likely to be more scared of those.

What are the IP camera’s features?
There are some users who consider some features of the cameras, like being wireless mandatory and there are those for who this is not that important. Another feature to note is if the access to the camera is easy and you can check it from a mobile device or not. In addition to this, it is important to note that some users consider it mandatory to have control over the camera and allow it to have zoom, tilting, pan and other features, which is also an important detail. For almost every user, an important feature of te camera is it’s size and scalability, since most of them allow for various different mechanisms. Furthermore, in addition to this, many also consider what budget they are willing to spend for such a camera and what type of energy saving features will the cameras have so that it’s operating costs become smaller.

So after we have had it all laid down for you, here are the 10 best IP surveillance cameras out there.


Nest Security Camera Review

Nest is in the lead again with yet another one of it’s smart devices, which is it’s camera. The camera is slick looking, completely weatherproof and it also plugs into power directly, eliminating the need to worry about your batteries dying. The camera is also quite convenient and saves a lot of time, since it has sensors which listen in for loud sounds, for instance a boom or a breaking sound of some sort and when the decibel level becomes disturbingly high, the camera immediately sends an alert to the administrator with a snapshot of the event and several pictures in it’s Nest app as well during 3 hours time span.

In addition to notifying you via the Nest app, by sending pictures, the camera also has a speaker build in, along with a microphone and both of these allow you to communicate via the camera so that you become in partial control of your home, even if you are away from it.

In addition to this, the Nest camera also works with other Nest devices as well, such as the smart thermostat and their smart lightbulbs and all of these smart devices can make your home interconnected and smart. So what Nest offers is a complete system of solutions for a home, which make you it’s master from far away, making it especially useful if you have children.

What We Like
130 degree angle view, which is quite wide.
Weatherproof camera and instruments attached to it.
You can talk and listen from and to the camera.
Night vision.
1080p HD quality picture.
What’s Missing
Could include ea mounting kit which makes it more difficult to be unmounted.
Could be a little more discreetly looking.

Hikivision DS-2CD3132 3MP Dome IP Camera Review

This unique and rugged IP camera is not one of the famous ones, but it is definitely there to do the job for you. The camera has quite the small dimensions, making it perfect to be mounted in more concealed places. The lens of the camera includes 28 LED lights which help boost the night vision range to up to 30 metres, which is ideal for a large home or field and when we add the ruggedness of this device, making it resistant to vandalism, it makes it an ideal outdoor camera to operate with. In addition to this, the camera is also certified for being waterproof as well as weatherproof. It can also perform smart activities, such as scan for a specfic type of objects entering or exiting the screen and notify the user if any changes in the environment occur. The camera naturally communicates via RJ-45 ethernet cable and AC adapter cable for power supply. It can also rotate itself and has configurable saturation, brightness, contrast and other configuration features. It is also connectible wirelessly via 2.4 GHz wireless mode plus it also supports NAS storage connectivity. It’s alarms can be triggered from motion detection, storage exception (if an object is gone from the image) and intrusion detection, so it’s quite a smart gadget as well.

What We Like
Weatherproof.
Tamper-proof
Small size.
Great nightvision capabilities over high range.
What’s Missing
You may be limited on the recording time that it saves compared to a dvr type recorder, even though it compresses saved video.

Lynx WiFi Solar Outdoor Security Camera

This geniously developed device does not require any type of power to be ran, especially if you live at sunny places. This is because this is an Outdoor security camera that is not only smart and contains advanced features, such as cnnectivity via WiFi and Facial Recognition, but also a standalone power management system. The unique camera requires only 1 sunny day to work for up to 7 days and it can even remain operational when you are out of electricity making it an ideal protection device. The facial recognition feature of the camera not only recognizes faces, but it can also let you save faces in a whitelist and each time an unfamiliar face which is not in this list is detected you will get a notification via the Tend Secure mobile app. In addtion to this, for maximum security and service, you also get a lifetime free seven-day cloud storage, meaning that your recordings are stored for up to 7 days in the cloud and each 7 days the recording begins anew and this is for all the time you use the camera. The camera also shoots in a Fulle HD 1080P video and has a two way audio setup and in addition to this it is also weatherproof and features nightvision. However, what makes it better thatn the other cameras in this list is it’s advanced features that are offered at an extremely easy setup mode that will take no longer than few minutes after you set up the camera itself. All of this for a camera that can contact you from anywhere in the world, especially if you connect it to a standalone 4G Wi-Fi router, which has an independent power source.

Image Source: Amazon.com

What We Like
Unique facial recognition features.
Standalone power-management (Solar panels).
Weatherproof.
A lot of value for it’s price.
What’s Missing
Could include extra features like wider night vision range.

Amcrest 720P HD Security System Review

This insane set of 8 security cameras is perfect if you have a vast area to monitor. It has a complete plug and play setup which can allow yout to watch the area you desire live from your smartphone in several steps’ setup. Not only this, but the camera also allows the recording of up to 360 hours video time which is more than two weeks of recording time and all of this can be backed up via USB, connected to another device. But you won’t need much of a backup, because the system feature sa 2 terabyte hard drive. Regarding viewing angle, it is not as impresisve as the Nest’s 130 degree one, but it has more than sufficient 75 degree viewing angle on all it’s cameras.

The cameras which are included in the Amcres system are 8 in total number and they also feature 1.0MP pixel size with 1270x720p video quality running at 30 frames per second. The cameras also feature remote viewing angle and widescreen viewing capability on all web browsers on Windows and Mac machines plus mobile devices which are Android and IOS as well.

There is no need for heavy setup functions, since the cameras system has a ready plug and play setup which immediately begins after you scan the QR code from it’s DVR module with your “Amcrest View” app, to begin administering and using the cameras for playback and live viewing configuration. In addition to this, the device is rather impressive when it comes to security as well, featuring more rugged security in comparison to IP cameras via it’s DVR functions which can assure a single access point for all of the cameras.

In addition to CE and FCC certification of the power supplies and the ruggedness certificate IP-67, the device also includes 1 year warranty and a lifetime support.

What We Like
IP67 certification.
8 cameras in 1 package.
DVR is 2TB, allowing 15 days recording time at 720p.
Range camera to DVR – 500 metres.
RReal-time feed without delay.
What’s Missing
Could include higher quality video, such as 1080p although the current one is sufficient.

Swann SWNVW-485 Smart IP Camera Review
This security camera has a wide 65-degree viewing angle and features multiple led lights, allowing up to 90 feet of night vision range. It Is also provided with 1-year warranty. In addition to this, the smart camera can capture images during the night and in any weather, featuring full watherproof components (conector, cable, etc). In addition to this, the camera has watherproof casings, powercord which is also weatherproof and has an RCA connector. The camera also has 30 metres of night vision range which is more than enough to handle wider areas outside. With dimensions of 11 x 8 x 4 inches, the SWNVW-485 is also not as big as it looks. In addition to this, the camera has Sony “Effio” video with 700 TV lines, allowing for a clear vision and high 1080p resolution plus 24/7 monitoring. In additon to this, it has a mount which makes it easy to mount it to walls.

What We Like
Wide angle viewing.
Easy mount.
Plug & Play setup.
What’s Missing
No remote connection.

Arlo Smart Home Security Camera System

This unique security system is extremely innovative and very compatible when it comes to connection. It can be bough in a single unit or muli-packages which allows for the user to choose the level of monitoring he wants. Created partially by NetGear the camera also provides connection via an app and other security functions such as motion detection, sent to the user’s smartphone, weatherproofing and 1GB secure storage in the cloud. It also has batteries and the ability to mount extra hardware that is compatible to it. What is the best about these unique looking and innovative cameras is that while they provide HD video, they send it directly to your smartphone. The perfect camera if you want a simple and easy setup for your home’s interior or exterior (or both). The best part of the camera is that it’s wireless connectivity allows for wire-free setup which is as easy as sticking a chewing gum to the wall. When we talk about the quality of the Arlo Smart Home camera, it does not dissapoint with HD camera and night vision added, even though it does not support as much range as we hoped it would.

What We Like
Motion alerts.
Wire-free.
Easy setup that does not require a computer.
Cloud storage accessible from anywhere.
720p live video feed with night vision.
What’s Missing
Could include more storage.
Could have more powerful batteries.


TriVision NC-336PW HD 1080P Wireless Camera Review

This modifiable bullet-style camera is created to be compatible with Android, iOS and PC devices and it can be used completely wireless or via a wire, based on what your preferences are. In addition to this, the camera is also equipped with infrared LEDs, which ensure up to 50 feet night vision range to it’s user. The camera is also part of a security system which can send e-mail notifications after it has detected movement on it’s monitored terrain. Equipped with 4mm or 6mm lenses, based on which one you choose it with, the device ensures that the 3MP camera delivers 1080P feed and snaps photos which are later sent directly to your e-mails. In addition to this, the camera also has motion detector sensors and zone selection which allows you to focus on specific zones where there shouldn’t be movements but there is, like your door for example. In addition to this, the camera also features storage expansion, having a microSD card slot, which makes it expandable.

What We Like
Works on wired ethernet connection but can also work wireless over Wi-Fi.
Works with POE 802.3af standard which allows switching between Wi-Fi and PoE.
Clean interface.
Flexible.
Motion sensor up to 300 feet.
Free mobile notifications.
App notifications.
Lifetime tech support.
What’s Missing
Could include farther night vision range for it’s price, since most competitors support up to 90 feet and farther.


VideoSecu Outdoor Day Night IR Security Camera Review

This security camera features a high ammount of infrared lights, 48 to be prices which results in extremely good performance during night vision. The IR camera provides superior images in all of the lighting conditions and also provides noise-eliminating technology which helps reduce the size of the recording by cutting down data. Another features it has is a convenient wall mount and a tamper-proof design, making it more dififcult to vandalize the camera. Another advantage it has is a NTSC video format, which can contribute to decreasing the size of the recorded video. The camera features a high resolution 6-15 mm vari-focal lens which is perfect for CCTV DVR surveillance and ofcourse an on-screen display function which helps control it and make it convenient for usage. The camera also has its cables to go through it’s mount to prevent vandalism via the connection as well. Basically, if you are going for a simple solution without having to pay a lot for a night vision camera, this is the device for you, although you will have to deal with cables.
What We Like
48 night vision LEDs.
Real-time system updates.
6-16 vari-focal lens.
NTSC video format.
Video algorithm that reduces data size.
Anti-sunlight, anti-glare.
What’s Missing
Could have smart features, like motion detection and wi-fi connectivity.
Could have had an app that relais information based on detected motion.

Hikvision DS-2CD2032-I IP Camera Review

Being a bullet-style security camera, the Hikivision DS series feature an outdoor security camera which in this model is 3 MP in size and ensures a stable HD image of great quality via it’s 4mm lens. The camera also has a wide angle viewing of almost 76 degrees, which is perfect for outdoor yards. In addition to this, it also features in-motion and tamper-proof alarms which notify you each time when an intruder is detected by sending a picture or recording a full HD 1080p video. The nightvision range of this model is naturally up to 30 metres which is normal for cameras in this range. The camera also has a tamperproof and weatherproof design and a convenient wallmount with a flexible neck, allowing it to be rotated and set however you like it to be. Although some users provide information that the setup of this camera requires to use the PSIA or ONVIF device and several other tweeks, the device works very nice with all it’s extras once it’s set up. But we do wish to have seen an easier setup via this camera which can allow end users without much experience to install it easier.

What We Like
Stunning quality of images.
Nightvision.
Weatherproof.
What’s Missing
The camera could provide more smart feature such as zone selection or remote control.

Foscam FI9900PR Ourdoor HD Wireless IP Camera Review
This bullet-style IP surveillance camera is a whole system which provides an easy setup and usage that is iOS and Android compatible. The camera offers a 1.3 MP 4mm lens which ensures that full HD video is available and it’s images are recorded and uloaded in the Foscam’s cloud which offers free trial version. In addition to this, the main benefit of having this model is that it offers 100 feet of total night vision range which is 10 feet more than the traditional 90 feett range, making it convenient for bigger areas to cover. In addition to the 70-degree viewing angle it provides, the Foscam is also equipped with an easy plug and play setup, offering QR scanning for automatic setup on a smartphone or computer. The easyness of this camera and the 960p HD quality it offers in a H.264 compression makes it very appropriate if you want something that you can set up in minutes time and use via mobile devices, like iPhone, Android, BlackBerry, etc. Throw in the compatibility of the camera to work outdoors and it makes for a decent as well as simple device to use for home monitoring.
What We Like
Cheap price for what it offers.
Clear picture.
Mobile devices compatibility.
What’s Missing
Could include more features.

Legal Disclaimer: Be advised that the opinions expressed on this website are solely ours and they are not biased towards any specific software company or any other organization. The opinions are also based on our research, which includes first-hand data as well as second-hand information and it took place approximately 30 days before this article was published.

Ventsislav Krastev

Ventsislav is a cybersecurity expert at SensorsTechForum since 2015. He has been researching, covering, helping victims with the latest malware infections plus testing and reviewing software and the newest tech developments. Having graduated Marketing as well, Ventsislav also has passion for learning new shifts and innovations in cybersecurity that become game changers. After studying Value Chain Management, Network Administration and Computer Administration of System Applications, he found his true calling within the cybersecrurity industry and is a strong believer in the education of every user towards online safety and security.

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3 Comments
  1. Benjamin Ortiz Estrada

    Me pudieran cotizar un sitema con 8 camaras de video Full HD, con control de acceso, y registros mediante credenciales magneticas, que se pueda enlazar a celular con IOS y android

    Reply
    1. Milena Dimitrova

      Hi there,
      What do you mean exactly?

      Reply
  2. Scarlett

    Great! The best information about the Cameras on the internet. I really like it. Thank you so much.

    Reply

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