Camera quality Camera resolution and field of view are crucial to get all the details from a security camera. Higher resolutions such as 2K and fields of view greater than 130 degrees are signs of a good home security camera. It's a bonus if cameras can pan and tilt to capture additional areas. This goes hand in hand with app quality, which should enable simple, highly detailed live images on demand.

Design Quality We prefer cams with sturdy, compact construction that can be positioned or mounted in a variety of positions for quick installation. The design can also add a lot of value to a camera: the ability to turn on a spotlight or sound a siren can be very useful for the security of your home. Likewise, motion detection features should be customizable, with options such as motion zones, privacy zones to reduce false alerts, and motion sensitivity. Basically, you should be able to adjust the settings until you get exactly the notifications you need.

Wired vs. wireless wired cams do not require charging and are usually slightly cheaper, but they are more limited in placement and take up more space installation work outside. Wireless cams are easier to install and avoid cable complications, but you do need to charge or replace the batteries, usually about every few months. We largely prefer wireless cams where possible, but wired cams can be a useful choice, especially for models such as video doorbells that can connect to existing doorbell wiring.

Audio Smart home security cams should offer two-way audio that allows for quick communication through the app. There are no two-way audio features that work with Apple's HomePod line, but they can work through other apps.

Object Recognition Object recognition is the ability to tell the difference between objects such as people, pets, vehicles and packages, and then send you customized alerts or ignore certain objects. It's a very important feature for modern security cameras, but it's sometimes locked behind subscriptions.

Video Storage Video storage is not an absolute requirement, but we highly recommend the ability to save, download, and share videos with any camera. Sometimes this feature is locked behind a cloud storage subscription (such as iCloud+), but in other cases you have a local storage option with a microSD card or similar setup. Local storage is more expensive to set up, but keeps you out of the cloud and away from subscription fees if you want to avoid them.

Additional smart home support While Apple support is guaranteed for our list, you may want cams that have additional smart home support, such as working with Alexa or Google Home. If you have an existing security system, look for a device that integrates with your existing control panel or apps.