Best Outdoor Security Cameras of 2025

We've tested over a dozen outdoor cameras, and Arlo Pro 4 is our top pick.
Best overall
Argus 4 Pro
4.8 out of 5 stars
4.75
  • pro
    Battery or solar
  • pro
    4K video
  • pro
    Local storage
Best for detection
White Arlo Pro 4 wireless security camera.
Arlo Pro 5S
4.3 out of 5 stars
4.25
  • pro
    Battery
  • pro
    2K video
  • pro
    Can detect fire
Best 24/7 live view
Nest Cam (Battery)
Nest Cam (Battery)
4.3 out of 5 stars
4.25
  • pro
    Battery, wired, or solar
  • pro
    1080p video
  • pro
    Can record 24/7
Best for budgets
Wyze Cam Pan v3
Wyze Cam Pan v3
4.3 out of 5 stars
4.25
  • pro
    Wired only
  • pro
    1080p video
  • pro
    Pan-and-tilt functionality
Best spotlight camera
Ring Spotlight Cam Pro (Battery)
Ring Spotlight Cam Pro
4 out of 5 stars
4
  • pro
    Battery, wired, or solar
  • pro
    1080p video
  • pro
    3D motion detection

For over 11 years, SafeWise experts have conducted independent research and testing to write unbiased, human reviews (not robots). Learn more.

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products considered
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research hours in 25+ in-home tests
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With 20+ years in tech journalism, Alina blends safety expertise with her passion for simplifying technology. Alina has tested hundreds of safety and security devices, is trained as a first responder, and has worked as a volunteer firefighter.

What are the best outdoor security cameras in 2025?

After hands-on testing, Reolink Argus 4 Pro takes the top spot overall for its ultra-wide 180° view and 4K clarity, paired with versatile solar and battery power. For smarter motion detection—including fire alerts and object learning—the Arlo Pro 5S is a standout. Google's Nest Cam (Battery) shines with its 24/7 live recording option, while the Wyze Cam Pan v3 offers exceptional value with pan-and-tilt functionality under $50. The Ring Spotlight Cam Pro adds high-powered lighting and radar-driven motion detection.

I’ll break down each of these top picks so you can compare their strengths and find the perfect outdoor camera to protect your home in 2025.



Compare the best outdoor security cameras

Product
Best for
Price
Power source
Video resolution
Field of view
Detects
Learn more
Best overallBattery, solar4K180ºHumans, vehicles, pets, can learn faces
Best at detectionBattery2K160ºHumans, vehicles, pets, fire, can learn faces/objects
24/7 live viewBattery, wired, solar1080p130ºHumans, vehicles, pets, can learn faces
Best for budgetsWired1080p120º lens

(360° pan, 180° tilt)
Humans, vehicles, pets, tracks motion
Best spotlight cameraBattery, wired, solar1080p140ºMovement in Bird’s Eye Zones (areas of detection you set up)

*Amazon.com price as of post date. Read full disclaimer.

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Best outdoor home security camera reviews

1. Reolink Argus 4 Pro: Best overall security camera

There's not really anything bad to say about the Reolink Argus 4 Pro. It has literally everything you'd want in a high-quality outdoor security camera. Let me just list off all the things I love about this little 4K outdoor security camera:

  1. It comes with a solar panel. I hate charging camera batteries, so I love that the Argus 4 Pro comes with a solar panel, for the same price as many other top-level outdoor cameras.
  2. 180° 4K view: This camera can cover your entire front yard in crispy, clear 4K. Even when I used it at night, I could still see whatever triggered the camera clearly.
  3. It detects almost everything. It tells you in the notifications if a person, car, or pet triggered it.
  4. Local storage: No need to sign up for a storage plan, this camera has local storage. Just pop in a microSD card and you're good to go. Big money saver!
pro
Pros
pro 4K video resolution
pro Can be used with Reolink security system
pro Easy to set up and install
pro 180° Field of view
pro Local storage
pro Affordable cloud storage
con
Cons
con App isn't wowing
con Doesn't detect fire
  • Usage: Outdoor, indoor

  • Compatible devices: Alexa, Google Assistant

  • Power source: Solar powered, battery powered

  • Connectivity protocol: Wi-Fi

  • Video capture resolution: 8MP

  • Viewing angle: 180°

  • Night vision range: 100 meters

  • Frame rate: 15 frames per second

  • Video encoding: H.264, H.265

  • Video capture format: MP4

  • Photo sensor technology: CMOS

  • Zoom type: Digital zoom

  • Zoom ratio: 10x

  • Focus type: Fixed focus

  • Low-light technology: Night color

  • Light source type: LED

  • Alert type: Motion only

  • Voltage: 3.6 volts

  • Wattage: 16.2 watt-hours

  • Number of channels: 4

  • Color: Black, white

  • Included components:

    • 1x Reolink Argus 4 Pro

    • 1x Security bracket

    • 1x Strap

    • 1x Quick start guide

    • 1x Mounting plate

    • 1x USB-C cable

    • 1x Mounting hole template

    • 1x Surveillance sticker

    • 1x Pack of screws

    • 1x 6W solar panel

  • Product dimensions: 5.03 x 3.43 x 3.2 inches

  • Item weight: 3.69 pounds

  • International protection rating: IP66 (weather resistant)

If I had to list a couple of downsides, the Reolink app is a little confusing. Once you get a little practice with it, though, it's not a huge drawback. Another thing to note is that it won't detect a fire with its sensors, unlike the Arlo Pro 4.

Argus 4 Pro outside camera

Testing the Reolink Argus 4 Pro at my home.

Image: Alina Bradford, SafeWise

2. Arlo Pro 5S: Best at detecting potential threats

Best at detection

The Arlo Pro 5S is a top pick for its outstanding ability to detect just about anything. This small camera can tell the difference between a car, a pet, and a human, which several of our top picks can do. What sets it apart is that it can also detect a fire and alert you to it. As a former firefighter, I love a device that can add another layer of fire protection to your home.

Even better, it learns while you use it. While the Argus 4 Pro and the Nest Cam can learn faces, the Arlo Pro 5S can also learn objects. So, you can teach your camera what your roommate's car looks like so it can give you better alerts.

pro
Pros
pro 2K video resolution
pro Detects and learns
pro Easy to set up and install
con
Cons
con Pricey cloud storage plans
con Local video storage costs extra
  • Usage: Outdoor

  • Power source: Battery powered

  • Video capture resolution: 2K

  • Color: White

  • Included components:

    • (1) Arlo Pro 5 camera

    • (1) Rechargeable battery

    • (1) Magnetic charging cable

    • (1) Wall mount and screw kit

    • (1) Quick start guide

    • (1) Video monitoring decal

  • Number of channels: 2

  • Wireless communication technology: Wi-Fi

  • Viewing angle: 160°

  • Wattage: 5 watts

  • Dimensions: 3.5 x 2 x 3 inches

  • Item weight: 11.04 ounces

  • Focus type: Automatically

  • Field of view: 160°

  • Low-light technology: Night color

  • Zoom type: Digital zoom

  • Alert type: Audio and motion

  • Video capture format: MPEG-4

  • International protection rating: IP65 (weather resistant)

By adding multiple Arlo cameras to your Arlo Home Security System, you have an interactive outdoor security camera system that can watch every access point on your property. Arlo's smart home compatibility is equally impressive since it works with platforms like Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, and Google Home.

Arlo recently raised the price of its Arlo Secure cloud storage plans,  making it one of the more expensive options on our list. Its single-camera plan costs almost as much as Nest's unlimited-camera plan. While you can store local video on a base station, you must buy one separately.

Learn more in our Arlo Pro 4 review.

3. Nest Cam (Battery): Best for 24/7 live viewing

Best for 24/7 live view

The Google Nest Cam (Battery) used to be our top pick for detection, but Arlo pulled ahead in that catagory. Still, the Nest Cam is one of the best wireless outdoor cameras we've ever tested. The video looks great, and Nest Cam has fantastic smart motion detection that tells you if a person, animal, or vehicle passes by. There's even a tiny amount of free cloud storage if you don't want Nest's industry-leading paid plan.

One major feature sets the Nest Cam apart from other outdoor cameras on our list: 24/7 live recording. Yep, that's right. If you opt for the Nest Aware Plus plan, you can get 10 days of 24/7 video history. You'll literally never miss a thing.

This feature is particularly useful if you want to use your camera for more than just security. The 24/7 feature can catch little moments like your kiddos running through the sprinkler or your pets contentedly watching a squirrel, even if you're not there. It's almost like having your own personal videographer. 

pro
Pros
pro Fantastic smart detection
pro 24/7 live video
pro Great video quality
pro Affordable cloud storage
con
Cons
con No siren
con Some features require a cloud plan
  • Usage: Outdoor, indoor

  • Compatible devices: Google Assistant

  • Power source: Battery powered

  • Video capture resolution: 1080p

  • Color: White

  • Included components:

    • Power adapter

    • Nest Cam camera

    • Charge cable

    • Wall anchors and screws

    • Magnetic and wall plate

  • Number of channels: 1

  • Wireless communication technology: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi

  • Viewing angle: 130°

  • Night vision range: 20 feet

  • Frame rate: 30 fps

  • Wattage: 24 watts

  • Water resistance level: Waterproof IP54

  • Item weight: 14.04 ounces

  • Optical zoom: 6x

  • Zoom type: Optical zoom, digital zoom

  • Zoom ratio: 0.1278

  • Low light technology: Night color

  • Alert type: Motion only

  • Light source type: Infrared

  • Video capture format: H.264

  • Cable length: 10 feet

We're huge fans of its smart home compatibility since it supports Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. Although the Nest Cam lacks a built-in siren and spotlights like Arlo, Reolink, and Ring, you can use the two-way audio to startle trespassers into retreat.

Learn more about this sleek camera in our Nest Cam Battery review.

Bell
Installing Nest cameras

Looking to install one soon? We've got a Nest Cam installation guide to help out with that.

4. Wyze Cam Pan v3: Best for those on a budget

Best for budgets

It was a pleasant surprise that the new Wyze Cam Pan v3 follows the trend of Wyze's latest cameras by offering weatherproofing. While you can find other outdoor pan-and-tilt cameras for less than $50, this is the first model from a mainstream brand. It could be better, but the price is hard to beat.

pro
Pros
pro Immensely affordable
pro Pan-and-tilt functionality
pro Local storage via microSD card
con
Cons
con Special power source for outdoor operation
con Sometimes buggy
  • Usage: Indoor and outdoor

  • Power source: Corded electric

  • Compatibility: Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa

  • Video resolution: 1080p HD (effective resolution)

  • Viewing angle: 120°

  • Wireless communication technology: Wi-Fi
  • Frame rate: 15–20 frames per second

  • Color: White

  • Voltage: 5 volts

  • Wattage: 6 watts

  • Dimensions: 2.09 x 2.36 x 4.88 inches

  • Weight: 11.36 ounces

  • Zoom type: Digital zoom

  • Low light technology: Color night vision (Night Color)

  • Alert types: Audio and motion

  • Video format: MPEG-4

  • Number of channels: 2

  • Included components:

    • Wyze Cam Pan v3

    • Mounting kit

    • Power adapter

    • USB cable

    • Quick start guide

  • International protection rating: IP65 (weather-resistant)

Like the previous Wyze Cam Pan model, this camera uses internal motors to reposition the camera, which helps make up for an otherwise narrow field of view. You can manually point the lens from the Wyze app or set it to follow moving objects through the frame. It's especially handy as a nanny cam for checking on the kiddos.

Out of the box, Wyze's cameras can record video to a microSD card (sold separately), or you can use a limited amount of free cloud storage. For improved cloud storage, you can upgrade to a Cam Plus subscription for about $3 a month per camera—it's the cheapest cloud plan on our list.

Light Bulb
Wyze Cam v3

If the pan-and-tilt feature isn't enticing, consider the Wyze Cam v3 (about $36), which offers most of the same features. It's been available much longer, so there are fewer bugs.

5. Ring Spotlight Cam Pro: Best spotlight camera for dark areas of your yard

Best spotlight camera

Ring made its name with excellent Ring Video Doorbells, but you can find the same tech in the sleek Ring Spotlight Cam Pro. It's the priciest camera on our list, but it has an excellent spotlight and unique motion-detection features. Plus, you can combine it with the Ring Alarm security system for comprehensive outdoor security.

pro
Pros
pro Bright built-in spotlight
pro Bird's Eye View
pro 3D Motion Detection
con
Cons
con Fewer smart alerts than Nest
con Requires cloud storage plan
con Pricey
  • Usage: Outdoor
  • Dimensions: 3.0 in x 3.2 in x 5.0 in (76.40mm x 80.50mm x 126.25mm)

  • Color options: Black, White

  • Video features:

    • 1080p HD video

    • Live view

    • Color night vision

  • Motion detection:

    • Advanced motion detection

    • Customizable motion zones

  • Field of view: 140° horizontal

  • Siren: Remote-activated security siren

  • Audio: Two-way audio with noise cancellation

  • Smart assistant compatibility:

    • Works with Alexa

  • Power options:

    • Rechargeable battery pack (1 included, supports up to 2)

    • Optional solar panel

    • Dual power mode: Switches between plug-in and battery (plug-in adapter sold separately)

  • Connectivity: 802.11 b/g/n Wi-Fi at 2.4 GHz

  • Internet Requirement: Minimum 2 Mbps upload speed

  • Operating Conditions: Weather resistant; -5°F to 120°F (-20°C to 48°C)

The Ring Spotlight Cam Pro brings over a few features from the Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Pro: 3D Motion Detection and Bird's Eye View. These features use radar for a precise view of people entering your property and even show their route on a satellite map. Still, these cool features don't make up for the outdoor wireless security cameras' lack of animal and vehicle detection.

Ring is the only brand on our list without free video storage. This means no rich notifications, person alerts, or recordings without paying for a Ring Protect plan. You can still watch a live feed and receive some notifications, but Ring's better with a subscription.

And because you can power it with a battery, solar panel, or hardwiring, you can buy the Ring Spotlight Cam for where you want to install it. We love that it supports two battery packs for extra time between charging sessions. (The second battery costs extra.) Plus, you can sound a built-in siren from your phone, making this outdoor cam a mini all-in-one security system.

Learn more in our Ring Spotlight Cam review.

Bell
Ring Stick Up Cam

You can save over $100 by choosing the Ring Stick Up Cam Battery (about $100), which skips the advanced features, spotlight, and extra battery. I've had it for years and it's never let me down. Check out our Ring Stick Up Cam review to learn more.

Final word: Reolink Argus 4 Pro is our top pick for outdoor security camera

Choosing the right outdoor security camera in 2025 comes down to what matters most to you—whether it’s crystal-clear video, advanced motion detection, smart home integration, or cost-effective coverage. From feature-packed models like the Reolink Argus 4 Pro and Arlo Pro 5S to budget-friendly picks like the Wyze Cam Pan v3, there's something for every home and every need. 

Check out our FAQ section to learn more about outdoor cameras.

For an overview of our favorite cameras for different settings, head to our review of the best wireless security cameras.

Best outdoor security cameras FAQ

We generally recommend wireless security cameras for their ease of installation. While many a model doubles as a solar-powered camera to increase the time between charges, this usually requires buying a separate solar panel. Otherwise, you must regularly recharge the batteries to keep the outdoor cam running.

On the flip side, wired cameras aren't always inferior. If you don't want to deal with batteries, choose a wired camera that plugs into an outlet or hardwires into an electrical circuit. The installation may involve extra drilling to run power cables but limits your placement options. Most wireless cameras also support wired power cables.

The benefit of a wireless security camera is the ability to place it anywhere on your property. Hardwired cameras have more placement restrictions (and trickier installation) because you have to connect them to a power source.

But cameras that rely on batteries are at higher risk of leaving you unprotected if the batteries run out and you don't notice. It comes down to what matters more—placement flexibility or an uninterrupted power supply.

We don't recommend using an indoor camera or nanny cam outside because it lacks weatherproofing and is more susceptible to temperature changes. While indoor cameras are generally more affordable than their outdoor counterparts, getting a camera that can handle the weather is worth the extra cost.

Although popular brands like Arlo, Ring, and Blink sell outdoor cameras starting at around $100, you can find cheap outdoor security cameras from brands like Reolink, Wyze, and ZOSI for $50 or less.

All outdoor cameras allow you to view live video and receive some notifications without a subscription, but it's more complicated when you want to record video:

  • Reolink, Wyze, YI, and ZOSI all have local video storage via a microSD card you buy separately.
  • While some Eufy cameras use a microSD card, most of its outdoor models have built-in storage. You can only add more storage by buying a base station like the Eufy HomeBase 3.
  • Arlo cameras require a compatible base station to save video without a subscription.
  • Google Nest, Reolink, Wyze, and YI are great options for a small amount of free cloud storage.

Beyond the free storage options, you can expect most outdoor camera manufacturers to offer paid cloud storage subscriptions.

The number of outdoor cameras you need depends on a few things, including the area you want to cover and the camera's field of view. A good baseline is a camera for each access point, like the front yard, the garage, and the backyard. (For the front porch, consider getting a video doorbell instead.) From there, you can add more cameras until you reach the level of coverage you want.

The best way to tell if your camera can withstand the whims of Mother Nature is to check out the IP (Ingress Protection) rating. The first number in an IP rating shows how difficult it is for dust to enter the camera enclosure. The second number indicates how water-resistant the enclosure is.

A camera enclosure with an IP65 rating can protect against dust and low-pressure water spray, basically rain and snow. A rating of IP67 means total dust protection and complete protection against three feet of water.

In addition to the IP rating, you can look at the temperature ratings in the camera specs. We dig into this more in our review of the best weatherproof security cameras.

Lighting won't be a concern if you only want to capture video footage during the daytime. Plus, all modern security cameras come with infrared night vision. You can expect good image quality within 10 to 15 feet of most cameras, with more powerful cameras doubling this range.

Aside from catching culprits in the act, a spotlight security camera or a floodlight camera is a good option for color night vision and lights to help you find your way at night. Keep in mind that other light sources can interfere with night vision capabilities, especially if your neighbor uses a super bright solar security light, by creating glare or washing out details.

Yes, your camera can work without Wi-Fi. Some cameras, like Reolink, include local storage that saves your video to a memory card or hub instead of sending it to cloud storage with Wi-Fi.

Not all security cameras need cloud storage. Cameras with local storage (like Reolink cameras) will store footage on a memory card or in a hub.

How we reviewed the best outdoor security cameras

Safewise tester handling Arlo Pro 4 security camera attached to its magnetic mount.

Image: John Carlsen, SafeWise. 

In order to make our list, cameras needed to stand up to the weather and have good night vision. We also liked cameras that use a wireless connection, motion detection, and some smart home compatibility. For this list, we considered only standalone outside cameras rather than those available as part of a professionally monitored security system.

When rating the best outdoor security cameras, we looked for the features that matter most to consumers, including cost, reliability, ease of use, smart home capabilities, weatherproofing, and night vision. We've tested multiple wireless outdoor security cameras in-house and at our homes. We looked at dozens of expert reviews and thousands of customer reviews to round out our research.

Check out our methodology to learn more about how we rank, review, and test products.

Compare the best home security systems

Brand
Best for
Monthly cost Icon Tooltip  Dark
Starter equipment price
Contract required
Smart home compatibility Icon Tooltip  Dark
Learn more
Best DIY security$249.96NoAmazon,
Google
Best professional security$599.00No *Amazon,
Google,
Z-Wave
Best customer ratingQuote requiredNo *Amazon,
Google
Most trusted security brand0.00YesGoogle,
Z-Wave
Quality DIY equipment$129.00No Amazon,
Google,
Z-Wave
Best budget-friendly pick$249.98NoAmazon,
Google,
Z-Wave
Best for smart homes$159.99NoAmazon, Apple, Google, Z-Wave, Zigbee
Best sensors$199.99NoAmazon,
Google,
Apple
Most gadgets$99.98NoAmazon,
Google

*Amazon.com price as of post date. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change. Read full disclaimer.
Full ADT disclaimer

*Amazon.com price as of post date. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change. Read full disclaimer.
Full ADT disclaimer

Related articles


Disclaimers

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. Safewise.com utilizes paid Amazon links.

Certain content that appears on this site comes from Amazon. This content is provided "as is" and is subject to change or removal at any time.

†Google, Google Nest, Google Assistant, and other related marks are trademarks of Google LLC.

Alina Bradford
Written by
Alina is a safety and security expert with over 25 years of experience. She has contributed her insights to CNET, CBS, Digital Trends, MTV, Top Ten Reviews, and many others. After testing thousands of devices, apps, services, and more, her goal is to make safety and security gadgets less mystifying one article at a time. In the early 2000s, Alina worked as a volunteer firefighter, earning her first responder certification and paving the way to her current career. Plus, she has tested hundreds of pieces of security and safety equipment over the years. Places published: CBS, MTV, CVS, Rachael Ray, eBay, Reader’s Digest, ConsumerAffairs, and more. Certifications: Fire Service Training, Oklahoma State University. Awards: Received the Experience Leader certificate from Authority, putting her “in the top 25% among the thousands of professional content creators analyzed by Authory for the Fall 2023 audit.” You can view more of Alina's work at alinabradford.com.

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