Best Smart Home Security
Smart home security devices let you monitor your home from anywhere and get instant alerts when something needs attention. Modern options range from $24 cameras to smart locks with built-in video, giving you layers of security at different price points. The best approach starts with a video doorbell and one or two cameras, then adds smart locks and sensors as needed. We compare the top options across each category, with a focus on which combinations work best together.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best For | Key Pros | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Gen) Wired | Doorbell | Affordable video doorbell | Amazon |
| Wyze Cam v3 Indoor/Outdoor Security Camera | Camera | Incredibly affordable | Amazon |
| eufy Security Video Smart Lock S330 | Smart-Lock | Built-in 2K camera | Amazon |
| Aqara Motion Sensor P2 (Matter Compatible) | Sensor | Matter compatible (works everywhere) | Amazon |
| Amazon Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen) | Smart-Display | Great for video calls | Amazon |
Detailed Look at Each Product
Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Gen) Wired
1080p HD video doorbell with two-way audio and night vision. Motion detection with customizable zones. Real-time notifications. Works with Alexa for announcements and live view on Echo Show. Hardwired installation for continuous power.
- Affordable video doorbell
- Easy Alexa integration
- Customizable motion zones
- 1080p video quality
- Requires Ring subscription for video history
- Wired installation only
Wyze Cam v3 Indoor/Outdoor Security Camera
Budget 1080p security camera with color night vision using a Starlight sensor. IP65 weather resistant for indoor or outdoor use. Two-way audio, motion detection zones, and free cloud storage for 12-second events.
- Incredibly affordable
- Color night vision
- Indoor and outdoor rated
- Free 12-second event clips
- Full-length recording requires subscription
- Occasional connectivity drops
eufy Security Video Smart Lock S330
Smart deadbolt lock with built-in 2K camera and fingerprint sensor. Unlocks via fingerprint in 0.3 seconds, plus app, code, and key options. BHMA Grade 2 security certified. No monthly fee for video storage.
- Built-in 2K camera
- Fast fingerprint unlock
- No monthly subscription
- Multiple unlock methods
- Complex installation
- Battery life shorter with camera use
Aqara Motion Sensor P2 (Matter Compatible)
Compact motion and light sensor compatible with Matter, HomeKit, Alexa, and Google Home. Detects motion up to 7 meters away with 170-degree wide-angle sensing. Runs on a single CR2450 battery for up to 5 years.
- Matter compatible (works everywhere)
- 5-year battery life
- Wide 170-degree detection
- Very compact
- Requires Aqara hub for some features
- No USB power option
Amazon Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen)
Smart display with 8-inch HD screen and spatial audio speakers. Built-in camera with auto-framing for video calls. Alexa voice assistant controls smart home, plays music, shows recipes, and displays photos.
- Great for video calls
- Photo frame when idle
- Spatial audio sounds good
- Smart home hub features
- Amazon ecosystem heavily promoted
- Camera privacy concerns
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most affordable home security camera?
The Wyze Cam v3 at $24 offers 1080p video with color night vision, indoor/outdoor use, and free 12-second event clips. It is the best budget security camera by far. Full-length recording requires a $2/month Cam Plus subscription.
Do I need a subscription for smart home security?
It depends on the device. The Ring Video Doorbell requires a subscription for video history. The Wyze Cam v3 offers free 12-second clips but needs Cam Plus for full recordings. The eufy Smart Lock S330 stores video locally with no monthly fee.
What is the best smart lock?
The eufy Security Video Smart Lock S330 combines a deadbolt, 2K camera, and fingerprint sensor in one device with no subscription fees. It unlocks via fingerprint in 0.3 seconds and offers app, code, and traditional key backup options.
Can I view my security cameras on a smart display?
Yes. The Amazon Echo Show 8 can display live feeds from Ring doorbells and Wyze cameras with a voice command. Just say Alexa, show me the front door to see your Ring doorbell feed on the 8-inch screen.