Though the majority of security cameras work with 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi, 5 GHz compatible security cameras offer better speeds and less signal interference in smaller spaces.
Here’s the best 5 GHz compatible security camera models for your consideration.
Table of Contents
Reolink E1 Pro
Best 5 GHz Wi-Fi security camera
Available on Amazon from $59.99.
Pros
- Two-way audio functionality
- Multiple storage options
- Voice command-compatible
Cons
- A little streaming delay
- App designs feels dated
Reolink E1 Pro offers superior Wi-Fi connectivity because of its dual-band capabilities. 1440p video resolution and infrared night vision delivers crisp images in low-light conditions up to 40 feet.
Aside from 5 GHz Wi-Fi, it has motorized panning, which makes monitoring indoors easy.
Key Specifications
- 4MP/2K Super HD
- 355 degree horizontal panning
- 50 degree vertical tilting
- Two-way audio
- Motion detection
- Continuous recording via microSD (up to 128GB)
- Works with Google Voice Assistant
Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Pro
Best outdoor 5 GHz security camera
Available on Amazon from $269.98.
Pros
- Useful smart features
- Integrated alarm/siren
- Super bright floodlight
Cons
- Requires hardwiring to supply power
Ring Floodlight Cam is a great 5 GHz Wi-Fi option for outdoor security, since it’s waterproof and has a super bright floodlight attached to it.
Cross compatibility with Amazon Sidewalk, Alexa, Fire TV, and Echo Show provide great smart home integration, while full-color night vision allows users to see who’s outside day and night.
Key Specifications
- 1080p HD
- 140 degree field of view
- Amazon Alexa
- Two-way audio
- Motion detection
- Brightness controlled floodlight
- Dual band Wi-Fi
What others are saying…
‘The Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Pro is a simple home security camera that records clear video and comes with built-in LEDs and a siren to deter Intruders. A well-designed bit of kit that gets the job done and then some, thanks to a wide variety of clever tech and app-led smarts.’ – Esat Dedezade for Techradar.
Arlo Ultra 2
Best 5 GHz battery security camera
Available on Amazon from $299.99.
Pros
- 4K video resolution
- Two-way audio
- Integrated alarm/siren
Cons
- Poor weather protection
- Requires a SmartHub (may be sold separately)
Arlo Ultra 2 is an impressive 8MP camera that delivers stunning 4K-resolution images. Users can hardwire it or use rechargeable batteries, which last six months with motion detection enabled.
Like other wireless security cameras, Arlo Ultra 2 has extensive smart technology integration, including Google Assistant, Samsung SmartThings, Alexa, and IFTTT. Its USB and Micro SD storage options are also appreciated.
Key Specifications
- 4K HDR
- Integrated Spotlight
- Rechargeable Battery
- 180 degree field of view
- Two-way audio
- Dual band Wi-Fi
- Requires a SmartHub
What others are saying…
‘Better range than the original and at a similar price, the Arlo Ultra 2 is the most advanced wireless camera I’ve reviewed, recording at 4K. Quality software and excellent modes that control when the cameras can and can’t record make this system stand out against rival products.’ – David Ludlow for Trusted Reviews.
Foscam HT2
Best affordable 5 GHz Wi-Fi security camera
Available on Amazon from $103.99.
Pros
- Waterproof design
- Integrated WPA, WPA2, and WEP for connection stability
- Motorized panning
Cons
- 32 GB limit on SD card storage
Dual band wireless outdoor security cameras are pricey. Dual band connectivity is something of a premium feature. Foscam HT2 is a solid option that’s fairly affordable.
Night vision and AI features are impressive, while the wide dynamic range brightens faces it detects automatically. With Google Assistant and Alexa integration, it slips right into smart home setups.
Need a camera that works with voice assistants? Check out our picks for Alexa-compatible devices, and for Google aficionados.
Key Specifications
- 1080p HD
- Integrated Spotlight
- IP66 weatherproof
- 350 degree horizontal panning
- 90 degree vertical panning
- Two-way audio
- Dual band Wi-Fi
What others are saying…
‘Exterior housing is entirely metal, and the included accessories and mounting system are well-made and thoughtful. 5GHz wifi support is wonderful; too many cameras lack that! Can be setup without using a smartphone app (hooray!), and works with Blue Iris via ONVIF (yay!) , but only after some rather cumbersome and undocumented steps.’ – Keith F. Kelly on Amazon.
AlfredCam Plus
Best 2.4 GHz security camera
Available on alfred.camera and Amazon from $39.99.
Pros
- 2K QHD
- Advanced AI motion detection
- Suitable for indoors and outdoors
Cons
- Not dual band
Not all Wi-Fi networks actually support 5 GHz, and the majority are 2.4 GHz networks. If the network doesn’t support 5 GHz, a 5 GHz wireless security camera won’t work with it.
AlfredCam Plus is an excellent and affordable 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi security camera. Crystal clear video captures every detail you need, day or night, while the all new advanced motion detection features let users tailor their surveillance to their needs.
Key Specifications
- 2K QHD
- IP65 (suitable for indoor and outdoor use)
- Advanced motion detection
- Continuous recording via microSD
- Infrared night vision
- Two-way audio
- Built-in siren
Get to know AlfredCam Plus from top to bottom in our product overview.
FAQ
What speed Wi-Fi do I need for security cameras?
The average wireless security camera requires one to two megabits per second (Mbps), assuming the video footage has 1080p resolution, runs 6-10 frames per second, and has H.264 codec.
How much bandwidth do security cameras take?
On average, security cameras consume five to fifty kilobits per second (Kbps). Other gadgets also connect to the internet in the same space, making Wi-Fi with at least 10 Mbps upload and 20 Mbps download speeds the minimum.
Do all security cameras work on Wi-Fi?
Most modern security cameras transmit data via a Wi-Fi network, but not all. Traditional hardwired CCTV is still widely used in public spaces. There are also wireless security cameras that support 4G mobile data networks instead of, or in addition to, Wi-Fi networks.
How do I connect my security camera to Wi-Fi?
- Download the app from the App Store or Google Play store
- Sign up
- Add a camera, following the in-app instructions to pair it, putting in your router password
- Go live to test it
- Share access with trusted users
For more detailed instructions on how to connect your security camera, check out our easy guide to connect security cameras with Wi-Fi.
Do Wi-Fi cameras need a router?
All Wi-Fi cameras need a router to connect to, unless they also support mobile data or hardwiring to a DVR/NVR.
Conclusion
5 GHz compatible security cameras offer advantages over 2.4 GHz devices. Namely, they are speedier.
However, 2.4 GHz networks cover a longer range, meaning they are easier to connect to in large spaces or where there are lots of physical obstructions.
Dual band security cameras are useful, but are far from necessary. Dual band is considered a premium feature, so these security cameras are more costly. You can get excellent, reliable security using the more commonly supported 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi.
Recommended reading: Do Security Cameras Work With 5 GHz Wi-Fi?