Home security doesn’t have to mean expensive systems with wires all over the place. These days, affordable cameras pack in enough features to keep you safe without breaking the bank. The market has grown so much that you can now find smart, reliable devices for under $100 — sometimes far less.
If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your setup or dipping your toes into home security for the first time, here’s a look at the best budget home security cameras on the market right now. These models combine value with performance, and they’re designed for real homes, not tech labs.
SimpliSafe has become a household name in the security world, and for good reason. Their wireless cameras — both indoor and outdoor — are designed to integrate smoothly with their alarm systems.
1080p HD video
Motion detection that reduces false alarms
Simple app integration
What’s nice here is the flexibility. Start with one or two cameras, then expand into a full alarm system later. For renters and families who want a no-fuss option, SimpliSafe gives you professional-level security without the headache of complicated contracts.
ADT has a reputation for being pricey, but their latest deals make them surprisingly competitive. When you sign up for certain ADT packages, you can get Google Nest Cams or doorbells included. That’s a serious perk if you were already considering a doorbell camera.
Nest’s video doorbells provide:
Crisp video resolution, even at night
Wide-angle viewing (so you actually see packages on the ground)
Clear two-way audio
For people hunting for the best doorbell cameras affordable, this kind of deal is worth checking. The camera quality is excellent, and the package pricing makes it more accessible than buying them standalone.
If you’re really trying to save, Zmodo is one of the cheapest names out there. You can find their indoor and outdoor cameras often under $50.
1080p HD video quality
Weather-resistant options for outdoors
Remote viewing through the app
These aren’t the fanciest cameras on the block, but for homeowners who want cheap wireless security cameras to keep an eye on their yard, pets, or driveway, Zmodo delivers solid basics without frills.
Wyze is a brand that’s built its reputation entirely on value. Their Wyze Cam v3 is famous among budget-conscious buyers.
Indoor/outdoor capability
Great night vision (with colour in low light)
Free cloud storage for short clips
At under $40, it’s hard to beat. If you’re looking for indoor cameras cheap but still reliable, this is the one many homeowners recommend first.
Amazon’s Blink line is another solid contender. The Blink Mini is tiny, simple to set up, and works perfectly indoors. The Blink Outdoor, on the other hand, is battery-powered and weatherproof.
Motion alerts directly to your phone
Alexa integration (of course)
Long battery life on outdoor models
They’re not packed with advanced analytics, but for everyday monitoring, Blink cameras provide dependable performance. For anyone searching for affordable surveillance cameras that just work, Blink is a strong choice.
Ring practically invented the video doorbell category, and their wired version is surprisingly inexpensive.
1080p video with live view
Motion detection alerts
Two-way talk through the app
For households that want a straightforward, low-cost way to monitor the front door, this Ring model is a fantastic option. And it keeps Ring’s easy integration with the broader Ring ecosystem.
Arlo has long been known for top-tier cameras, but the Essential range brings the price down while keeping strong features.
1080p video quality
Built-in spotlight for better night vision
Weather resistance
They’re pricier than Zmodo or Wyze, but if you want something that feels a bit more polished while still being part of the smart home security on budget conversation, Arlo Essential is a nice middle ground.
Eufy offers indoor cameras that consistently punch above their price point. The Solo IndoorCam series includes models with:
2K resolution
AI detection (distinguishes between humans and pets)
Local storage options (no forced cloud subscription)
That last feature is huge. Many budget cameras push you toward monthly fees, but Eufy gives you choice. It’s one of the reasons many homeowners swear by their products for value.
With so many options, how do you decide? Here’s a quick breakdown:
If you want simplicity: Go with Wyze or Blink. Easy to use, low cost, reliable basics.
If you want an ecosystem: SimpliSafe or ADT/Nest will integrate into broader security systems.
If you want a solid doorbell: Ring or Nest are the leaders here.
If you want flexibility in storage: Eufy is your best bet.
If you want rock-bottom pricing: Zmodo delivers the cheapest hardware with decent performance.
One thing that often surprises buyers is the subscription question. Many budget cameras offer basic live viewing for free but charge for cloud storage or advanced features like person detection. Some brands, like Eufy or Wyze, provide local storage options that help you avoid monthly fees. It’s worth checking before you buy, because a low upfront price can creep up if ongoing costs aren’t factored in.
The days when security cameras were luxury items are long gone. You don’t need to spend thousands to keep your home safe anymore. From Zmodo’s bargain-basement models to Wyze’s indoor champs, from Ring’s inexpensive doorbells to Arlo’s polished Essentials, the options are endless.
You can build a simple setup with a couple of cameras, or layer things with doorbells, outdoor units, and indoor monitors. The key is matching features to your needs rather than chasing every spec.
In short, smart protection no longer has to mean expensive protection. With today’s smart home security on budget, peace of mind is finally within reach.
This content was created by AI