Home or workplace security is a high priority in our modern world. Surveillance cameras have long been more than just a deterrent – they offer smart functions such as motion detection, night vision and even app notifications to keep you informed at all times. But with so many models on the market, it’s often difficult to make the right choice. In this article, we present the best surveillance cameras in terms of image quality, functionality and value for money.
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The best surveillance cameras for outdoors
Surveillance cameras are particularly popular outdoors. Is someone at the front door? Who or what is sneaking through the garden at night? And where has the parcel service dropped my parcel? Outdoor surveillance cameras also need a weatherproof design, a convincing night mode and more.
Reolink Argus 4 Pro
The Reolink Argus 4 Pro impresses with a true 180° field of view made possible by dual image stitching technology. This innovative technology combines the images from two lenses to create a seamless panoramic view, giving you more than twice the field of view of conventional single-lens cameras. This means you always have an overview and capture all the details.
Equipped with advanced ColorX technology, the Argus 4 Pro offers excellent color night vision even in low light conditions. Thanks to the F/1.0 lens and 1/1.8″ CMOS sensor, the camera captures four times more light, resulting in vivid and lifelike images even in dark environments. This enables continuous monitoring in high quality, regardless of the lighting conditions.
The camera supports smooth 4K streaming through the integration of dual-band Wi-Fi 6 technology. This ensures a stable and fast wireless connection with low latency. In addition, the Argus 4 Pro is weatherproof to IP66 standard and has a wireless design with rechargeable battery, allowing flexible installation both indoors and outdoors. These features make the Argus 4 Pro a versatile and powerful solution for security surveillance.
eufyCam S3 Pro
The eufyCam S3 Pro impresses with its advanced MaxColor Vision technology, which delivers color surveillance images in 4K resolution even in minimal light – without the use of spotlights. This innovation enables detailed and clear night vision that surpasses conventional black and white recordings.
Another outstanding feature is the SolarPlus 2.0 technology. The integrated solar panel ensures a continuous power supply, allowing the camera to work reliably all year round. For even more flexibility, the power supply can be extended with an external solar panel, allowing flexible mounting.
The eufyCam S3 Pro also relies on a dual sensor system that combines radar and infrared technology to accurately detect human movement and reduce false alarms by up to 99%. With 16 GB of internal memory, expandable up to 16 TB, it offers enough space for local video recordings – without any monthly fees. It is also compatible with Apple Home, Alexa and Google Assistant, enabling seamless integration into existing smart home systems.
Eufy SoloCam S340
The Eufy SoloCam S340 impresses with its impressive combination of innovative technology and ease of use, making it an ideal choice for reliable surveillance. With its integrated 4K Ultra HD resolution, the camera delivers razor-sharp images, making even the finest details such as faces or license plates clearly visible. Thanks to the powerful night vision function, surveillance remains precise and effective even in the dark. In addition, the integrated solar mode ensures a self-sufficient power supply, allowing the camera to be operated without regular recharging – perfect for remote locations or users looking for a maintenance-free solution.
Another highlight of the SoloCam S340 is its advanced AI-powered motion detection, which distinguishes between humans, animals and other movements to minimize false alarms. Users also benefit from local storage, which securely stores all recordings on an integrated memory without requiring additional cloud subscriptions or fees. This not only offers data protection, but also saves costs in the long term. Intuitive operation takes place via the user-friendly Eufy Security app, which sends notifications in real time and offers numerous customization options.
The camera is also weatherproof to IP67 standard, meaning it works reliably even in difficult conditions – be it rain, snow or strong sunlight. With its wireless installation and unobtrusive design, the SoloCam S340 can be easily integrated into any area without being obtrusive. This combination of ease of use, high image quality and innovative functions makes the Eufy SoloCam S340 an outstanding solution for private and professional surveillance.
Annke C800
The Annke C800 offers outstanding 4K quality with a high resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels, which ensures that every detail remains clearly visible even in difficult lighting conditions. Thanks to Smart Dual Light technology, the camera is able to switch between infrared and white light to provide excellent visibility both in the dark and when motion is detected.
The camera enables precise surveillance through its 96° wide-angle view and supports both people and vehicle detection, making it an ideal solution for outdoor use. With an integrated microphone for clear audio recording and RTSP support, it offers versatility in a secure surveillance system.
Another advantage of the C800 is its user-friendly installation via Power over Ethernet (PoE), which greatly simplifies connection and operation and avoids cable clutter. The camera is also weatherproof and designed for outdoor use, making it a robust choice for security surveillance of properties and buildings.
TP-Link Tapo C325WB
The TP-Link Tapo C325WB impresses with its powerful functions for outdoor surveillance. It offers 4MP resolution for clear and detailed day and night footage. Thanks to the advanced night vision technology, the camera captures clear images even in complete darkness, enabling 24/7 surveillance.
With a robust design, the Tapo C325WB is suitable for use in various weather conditions. Its IP66 certification protects it from dust and rain, making it the ideal solution for outdoor use.
Another highlight is the user-friendly app control, which allows users to easily configure the camera and watch live streams from their home or business.
The best surveillance camera for indoors
Indoors, the best surveillance cameras do not have to be weatherproof. What counts here is image quality, flexibility and night vision mode. Tip: All outdoor surveillance cameras can of course also be used indoors.
EufyCam S350
The EufyCam S350 impresses with its outstanding image quality thanks to 4K resolution and a powerful dual-cam system that enables detailed monitoring both at a distance and in close-up shots. With an 8x zoom, users can get detailed views of their surveillance areas, which is particularly beneficial in large or complex environments.
Another highlight is the seamless integration of the camera into the smart home, thanks to its compatibility with the Eufy Security App. This enables simple control and notifications directly on the smartphone, keeping users constantly informed about what is happening in their home.
In addition, the EufyCam S350 impresses with advanced motion detection and a robust design that is optimized for indoor use. Its IP65 certification guarantees high resistance to dust and splash water, so that it works reliably even in different environments.
Google Nest Cam (battery)
The Google Nest Cam with battery impresses with its flexibility and ease of installation. Thanks to its wireless design, it can be easily placed in various indoor or outdoor locations without the need for complex cabling.
The camera delivers razor-sharp HD video quality and is equipped with an integrated night vision function so that you have a clear view of your home even in the dark.
It also offers reliable motion detection that sends you instant notifications when unwanted activity is detected. The uncomplicated control via the Google Home app makes monitoring your surroundings particularly convenient.
Blink indoor surveillance camera
The Blink indoor surveillance camera offers an excellent way to securely monitor your home without the need for complex cabling. Its wireless functionality makes it easy to install, so the camera can be placed anywhere without any problems. Thanks to the particularly long battery life of up to two years, it is also extremely low-maintenance.
With its high-resolution HD quality, the camera provides clear images and videos that enable reliable surveillance both during the day and at night. Motion detection ensures that you are notified immediately as soon as something unusual happens. This makes the Blink Indoor an effective solution for home surveillance.
The two-way audio function allows you to communicate in real time with people in front of the camera, which is particularly useful if you are receiving guests or want to prevent unwanted intrusion. This functionality combines security and convenience, making the Blink Indoor one of the best options on the market for price-conscious buyers.
Price tip: TP-Link Tapo C210
The TP-Link Tapo C210 is a versatile security camera designed for the home. With an impressive pan and tilt function, the camera’s recording area can be flexibly adjusted, enabling comprehensive surveillance of the entire area. The camera also offers clear Full HD resolution, which ensures sharp and detailed images, whether during the day or at night thanks to the integrated night vision function.
Another highlight of the Tapo C210 is its easy operation via the Tapo app, which enables quick and uncomplicated installation and user-friendly control. In addition, the camera can be operated both with a Wi-Fi network and via wired connections, which offers additional flexibility in terms of placement.
For efficient and safe use, the Tapo C210 is equipped with a motion sensor that notifies users immediately when motion is detected. This keeps you informed at all times and allows you to react quickly if necessary, providing an additional security benefit.
Buying surveillance cameras: What you should look out for
The demand for surveillance cameras has risen sharply in recent years – and for good reason. They not only offer security, but also the ability to keep an eye on your home, office or property at all times. However, the large selection of models can quickly become overwhelming. To help you make the right decision, we have put together the most important criteria you should look out for when buying surveillance cameras.
1. place of use: indoors or outdoors?
The first step when buying a surveillance camera is to decide where it is to be used.
- Indoor cameras: They are compact, often discreet in design and do not require any special weatherproofing. Perfect for monitoring entrance areas, living rooms or offices.
- Outdoor cameras: These models are robust and weatherproof (at least IP65 or higher) to withstand rain, snow and temperature fluctuations. Make sure that the camera delivers good results even in poor lighting conditions.
Tip: Some cameras are suitable for dual use, i.e. they can be used indoors and outdoors. These are usually more expensive, but also much more flexible.
2. image quality and night vision
The resolution of the camera is decisive for the image quality. While a full HD resolution (1080p) is sufficient for most applications, 4K cameras offer an even sharper image – ideal if you need to recognize details such as faces or license plates.
Night vision is another important criterion. Many models are equipped with infrared LEDs that provide clear images even in the dark. Pay attention to the range of the night vision function. For larger properties, it should be at least 10 to 15 meters.
3. motion detection and notifications
A good surveillance camera should be able to reliably detect movement. Intelligent cameras can even distinguish between people, animals and vehicles, which reduces false alarms.
In addition, many cameras offer the option of notifying you immediately via app or email if motion is detected. This allows you to react in real time if something unusual happens.
4 Connectivity and storage
Modern surveillance cameras are often equipped with Wi-Fi, which makes installation easier. However, you should make sure that the camera has a stable connection to the router, especially if it is installed outdoors. Alternatively, there are wired models, which are often more reliable but more complex to install.
Storage options:
- Cloud storage: Practical and secure, but often associated with monthly costs. Ideal if you want to access your recordings from anywhere.
- Local storage: You can store recordings locally using microSD cards or network video recorders (NVR). This is often cheaper, but does not offer backups in the event of the camera being stolen.
5 Data protection and security
When using surveillance cameras, you should also consider data protection. Cameras with cloud storage should support encryption (e.g. AES-256) to protect your data from unauthorized access. Also check whether the camera is GDPR-compliant if you are using it in Germany.
Tip: Set a strong password for your camera and regularly update the firmware to avoid security vulnerabilities.
6. additional functions: What is worthwhile?
Depending on your needs, certain additional functions can significantly improve the convenience and functionality of your surveillance camera:
- Two-way audio: equipped with a speaker and microphone, you can communicate via the camera, for example with suppliers or family members.
- Pan and tilt function: Cameras with PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom) can cover a larger area and offer more flexibility.
- Smart home integration: Many models can be connected to systems such as Alexa, Google Assistant or Apple HomeKit.
7 Budget: How much does a good surveillance camera cost?
Surveillance cameras are available in different price ranges:
- Entry-level models: From approx. 50-100 euros. These cameras usually offer simple functions and good image quality for smaller applications.
- Mid-range: Between 150 and 300 euros. Here you will find models with better image quality, night vision and intelligent features such as motion detection.
- High-end cameras: From 300 euros. They offer 4K resolution, extensive smart functions and are often suitable for large areas or professional applications.
Conclusion: security with the right camera
Buying a surveillance camera requires careful consideration in order to find the model that perfectly suits your needs. Whether for indoor or outdoor use, with a focus on night vision or smart integration – the right camera provides a sense of security and control. Before you buy, compare the technical data, customer reviews and your individual requirements to find the ideal solution.
