With the cost of groceries, rent, and fuel prices continuing to climb, people might choose to put home security cameras to the back of their mind when budgeting.
The home security camera market is saturated with expensive options, but there are high quality cheap wireless security cameras, including AlfredCam.
Read on to discover our favorite super cheap security cameras, including cheap outdoor wireless security cameras, as well as what you should consider before buying one.
Table of Contents
Best Cheap Security Cameras: Our Top 5
- Best cheap security camera that connects to your phone – AlfredCam
- Best cheap wireless security camera – Blink Indoor Cam
- Super cheap security camera – Neos SmartCam
- Best cheap outdoor wireless security camera – ieGeek Wireless Outdoor Security Cam
- Best cheap motion detection security camera – YI Home Security Camera
AlfredCam
Best cheap security camera that connects to your phone
Available from AlfredCamera and Amazon. From $29.99.
Pros
- Easy install and out of the box set-up
- Full color night vision
- Two-way audio
Cons
- Not weatherproofed for outdoor use
- SD card not included (required for Continuous Recording)
The first hardware camera from AlfredCamera combines all the beloved features from the app with a 1080p, 130-degree standalone camera (wider than other similarly priced cameras). microSD card support allows for continuous recording, or you can use 7 days of free motion-based cloud storage to save footage.
Existing app users will appreciate the easy setup and seamless integration, as well as night vision and motion detection. At just $29.99, it’s among the best cheap security cameras that connect to your phone and one of the most easy to install security cameras.
The app can be used alongside other devices, including old smartphones, to create an effective DIY home security system on a budget.
What is the easiest home security camera system to install?
AlfredCamera makes it possible to use a wide array of devices to create your own DIY home security camera system.
Old phones, tablets, webcams, and the AlfredCam hardware security are all fair game. Easily set them up via the app by tapping ‘Add a Camera’. A QR code will be generated for the Camera device to scan, which will automatically pair the device.
You can add as many devices as you want before arranging them around the house to view entry ways, living rooms, and other spaces. No hardwiring and no additional hardware required.
Try it now for free to see for yourself why AlfredCamera is the easiest home security camera system to install.
Key Specifications
- 1080p HD
- 130° field of view
- Motion detection
- Continuous recording
- microSD support
- Infrared night vision
- Two-way audio
- Built-in siren
Blink Indoor Cam
Best cheap wireless security camera
Available at BestBuy, Amazon, and Target. RRP $79.99.
Pros
- Wireless
- Battery-powered (2x AA lithium batteries)
- Alexa-compatible
Cons
- 110-degree field of view isn’t as wide as competitors
- Not as inexpensive as competitors
Amazon’s Blink line is well-regarded for basic, easy-to-use features. The Blink Indoor is the cheaper of the bunch. The cubic design is totally wire-free thanks to two AA batteries (not included), and the company claims it can last up to two years with just a single pair.
As the name suggests, it’s only suitable for indoor use, but full HD and a 110-degree field of view will be more than apt for casual use. If you have a little extra change, buy the Sync Module 2 for local storage.
Key Specifications
- 1080p HD
- 110° field of view
- Motion detection
- Continuous local recording with Sync Module 2 (sold separately)
- Infrared night vision
- Two-way audio
- Battery-powered (2x AA)
Neos SmartCam
Super cheap security camera
Available at Amazon and Neos (UK). From £19.99.
Pros
- Super cheap
- Magnetic base for easy mounting on metallic surfaces
- Alexa-compatible
Cons
- Under-developed app
- Intrusive sign up
This super cheap security camera boasts a 1080p camera with a humble 110-degree lens, as well as night vision, motion and noise detection. The magnetic base will be particularly handy for those with an abundance of metal surfaces in the home.
Alexa compatibility and up to 14 days of cloud storage reaches above the price point, but elsewhere it is lacking. Of concern is the intrusive, bug-laden app and a fairly awkward setup.
Key Specifications
- 1080p HD
- 110° field of view
- Motion detection
- Noise detection
- microSD support
- Infrared night vision
- Two-way audio
ieGeek Wireless Outdoor Security Cam
Best cheap outdoor wireless security camera
Available at Amazon, ieGeek. From $55.99.
Pros
- IP65 weatherproof
- Battery lasts 3-4 months on a single charge
- 2K video
Cons
- Prone to dropouts if too far from Wi-Fi hub
- Cloud footage can’t be downloaded
As far as cheap outdoor security cameras go, this offering from ieGeek is pretty compelling. Though a little more expensive than most of the list, it is IP65 weatherproof and runs on a rechargeable battery, meaning you can safely leave it outside.
Supposedly the battery is the same as that used in Tesla cars, and it promises to last between 3 and 4 months. Aside from that, expect impressive basics for the price, including 2K video, 130-degree viewing angle, and human detection. If you’re looking for outdoor use, this cheap home security camera is worth considering.
Key Specifications
- 2K Video
- 130° field of view
- Motion detection
- Sound and light alarm
- microSD support
- Infrared night vision
- Spotlight
- Two-way audio
YI Home Security Camera
Best cheap motion detection security camera
Available at Amazon, Yi, and Walmart (x2). From $24.99.
Pros
- Motion detection triggers a recording that doesn’t stop until the motion does
- Alexa-compatible
- Option for 24/7 emergency response
Cons
- Potential privacy concerns
- Awkward design may be difficult to mount
This inexpensive 1080p home security camera boasts human detection, two-way audio, and more, though its motion detection is perhaps its most unusual feature compared to other cameras. The camera records motion events for as long as there is motion, and only stops once it detects the motion has ended.
The option for 24/7 emergency response service gives motion detection more value, instantly notifying the Certified Emergency Dispatchers if needed.
Key Specifications
- 1080p HD
- 112° field of view
- Motion detection
- Sound detection (including baby crying)
- Continuous recording
- microSD support
- Infrared night vision
- Two-way audio
3 Things to Consider Before Buying a Cheap Security Camera
Before clicking add to cart, there are some things about super cheap security cameras you should consider.
These are the 3 key things to mull over before investing in a new cheap security camera.
1. Privacy
When a brand has a well-known name, its reputation usually holds it accountable to stricter privacy policies.
Unfortunately, using the products of lesser known brands introduces legitimate privacy concerns that should be considered carefully.
Terms and conditions should state outright what data you are giving away, even if it is ‘between the lines’, so make sure to read terms and conditions carefully.
What AlfredCamera does to protect your privacy
AlfredCamera supports WPA3, the latest and current standard for Wi-Fi network security.
Networks are also encrypted with Transport Security Layer Protection (TSL1.2) and Advanced Encryption Standard (AES, originally created by and for the US government), which keeps data secure as it is transferred to and from the server and when it is streamed.
Find out what founder and CEO, Alex Song, had to say about keeping user data safe in an interview with Cybernews.
2. Longevity
Though it’s not necessarily true of all more affordable brands (we’re pointing at ourselves here), oftentimes the cheaper the product is, the worse quality it is.
A great way to save money may end up costing you more if the quality is so poor that the product fails after just a few months.
If cost is a serious concern, the cheapest way to do high quality surveillance is using an old phone, tablet or webcam alongside AlfredCamera.
Recommended reading:
How To Use A Webcam As Security Camera In 5 Steps
How To Turn Old Phones Into Security Cameras
AlfredCam: high quality build, low price
AlfredCam was built with quality in mind, using a sturdy yet-lightweight plastic casing to protect the camera.
It’s undergone exhaustive storage and operation testing to make sure it functions reliably.
The camera itself rests on a ball joint that allows for smooth 360-degree motion, so you can pose the camera at the optimum viewing angle without fearing sliding out of place.
3. Purpose
Whether it’s security at home or security in the office, what the device will be used for should be considered before buying.
Cheap security cameras are appropriate for regular security concerns in the home, meaning a DIY home security approach will suffice.
Cheap security cameras are also great for baby and child monitoring, as well as watching over your pets.
How can you make use of AlfredCam
Standing at under 4 inches tall, AlfredCam is subtle, lightweight, and portable, making it perfect for multi-purpose uses.
Two-way audio allows it to be a pet monitoring camera one day and a baby monitoring camera the next. The 130-degree field of view makes it perfectly apt at capturing all the details of the main thoroughfares and living spaces in the home.
Small business owners will appreciate the simple way you can attach the camera to the wall.
FAQ
What is the cheapest home security camera?
AlfredCam is among the cheapest home security cameras available that is both high quality and reliable. Many of the cheapest home security cameras can be found all over Amazon, but you can check our list for the rundown on the ones that get our seal of approval.
How much is a basic security system?
A basic security system can cost nothing if you DIY it using AlfredCamera, which allows you to use old phones and other devices as cameras alongside the AlfredCam hardware security camera.
Are super cheap security cameras trustworthy?
It is worth being skeptical of super cheap security cameras.
Unknown brands are more likely to come with potential privacy issues because there is less of an onus on being transparent compared to well-known, reputable brands. Always read terms and conditions carefully: what data you are giving over will be stated.
Are there hidden costs behind cheap security cameras?
Because cheap security cameras have less advanced features, there usually aren’t any hidden costs. Still, many will provide the option to pay for cloud storage or other more advanced features.
Which security camera has no monthly fee?
We identified a number of great security cameras with no monthly fee in our article on subscription-free security cameras, including AlfredCamera and eufy’s SoloCam E40.
Can I use a security camera without a company?
Yes, security cameras can be used in homes without being professionally installed by a company. AlfredCamera devices can be set up in minutes DIY-style.
What is the easiest home security camera to install?
AlfredCam is ready to use within minutes of opening the box. Simply power on the device and tap ‘Add a Camera’ in the AlfredCamera app. You’ll then be presented with a QR code for the camera to scan from your device’s screen. Scan it, and the camera is ready to use.
How do I install a home security camera by myself?
Installing a home security camera isn’t the nightmare it’s made out to be, especially when it comes to cheap wireless security cameras. For ideas on placement, check out our article on how best to place a security camera, or find out how to install wireless cameras.
Conclusion
Mounting living expenses shouldn’t discourage you from taking your home security concerns seriously. Cheap security cameras are a great step toward DIY home security that keeps things safe and secure on even a budget.
AlfredCam represents a breakthrough in affordable IP cameras, combining reputable and trustworthy service with a functional, attractive camera that can be used alongside phones, tablets, and webcams in unlimited combinations.