For apartment dwellers, ensuring safety can sometimes feel like a challenge due to shared spaces and limited control over building security. Whether you're worried about package theft, want to monitor visitors, or simply keep an eye on things while you're away, finding the best security camera for apartment can give you that peace of mind.
But with so many options out there, how do you choose the right one for your apartment? Let's explore the top apartment camera models for 2024 and break down the key features you should look for, so you can make a well-informed decision.
Benefits of Installing Security Cameras for Your Apartment
Installing security cameras in your apartment offers peace of mind and a sense of control over your personal space, especially if your building lacks proper security measures like locked entryways or surveillance in common areas.
Even if some security is in place, it might not be enough to fully protect your home. Here are the key reasons why adding a security camera for your apartment can make a big difference:
- Deter Potential Intruders: Security cameras are a great way to discourage unwanted visitors. When potential burglars see a camera, they're more likely to think twice before attempting a break-in.
- Support in Case of an Incident: If something does happen, like a break-in or suspicious activity, having video evidence can be incredibly helpful. Security camera footage can provide proof for authorities, help identify suspects and support any insurance claims you might need to file.
- Keep an Eye on Your Package Deliveries: If you've ever worried about package theft or missed deliveries, a security camera can be a real lifesaver. With the right setup, you can monitor your front door or entryway in real-time and get alerts when someone arrives.
- Monitor Activity While You're Away: Whether you're at work or on vacation, security cameras let you check in on your apartment remotely. Most modern cameras come with mobile apps that allow you to view live feeds or recorded footage from anywhere.
Best Security Cameras for Apartments of 2024
Whether you're looking for outdoor coverage to monitor deliveries or an indoor option to keep an eye on pets or kids, there are plenty of fantastic apartment camera options available in 2024. Here, we've highlighted some of the best apartment surveillance camera models, offering both peace of mind and easy functionality:
1. eufy SoloCam S340
The eufy SoloCam S340 is a top choice for outdoor apartment security. Its standout dual-lens system delivers ultra-clear imaging with a stunning 3K resolution, ensuring you see every detail, even at a distance of 50 feet. The camera's 360° pan and tilt capabilities mean no corner of your surroundings is left unchecked, and with AI-powered tracking, you can rest assured it will accurately detect humans and vehicles.
The best part? The SoloCam S340 operates using solar power, meaning it can run continuously without needing frequent recharges. You also won't have to worry about paying for cloud storage, as this camera comes with local storage options that don't require a subscription. Its weatherproof design, easy wire-free installation, and advanced night vision make it perfect for keeping your apartment's outdoor areas secure, whether it's your entrance or balcony.
Who is it for?
The eufy SoloCam S340 is ideal for apartment dwellers who want reliable, eco-friendly security with zero monthly fees. If you're looking for a robust camera that's easy to install and maintain, especially for monitoring outdoor spaces like your entrance or balcony, this model is a perfect choice.
Key features:
- Dual lens with 3K resolution and 8× zoom for clear details
- 360° pan and tilt coverage with no blind spots
- Solar-powered for continuous operation without recharging
- No recurring costs with local storage options
- Easy wire-free installation in under 5 minutes
- Motion-activated spotlight and 90 dB siren for night security
- Color night vision for better low-light performance
2. eufy Indoor Cam S350
For indoor security, the eufy Indoor Cam S350 delivers exceptional performance with its dual cameras and 4K UHD resolution. This camera provides clear, detailed footage of your apartment, making it ideal for monitoring pets, children, or specific areas of interest.
With its impressive 8× hybrid zoom and 360° pan and tilt capabilities, you can easily cover an entire room without missing any blind spots. It also excels in low-light situations thanks to its enhanced night vision features.
The camera's AI-powered tracking system is great for keeping tabs on family members or pets as they move around the space, and privacy mode ensures you're always in control of when and where the camera is recording.
Who is it for?
The eufy Indoor Cam S350 is perfect for apartment dwellers who need an indoor camera that offers superior clarity, full room coverage, and smart tracking for pets or loved ones. It's also a great fit for those who value privacy and want the ability to control their camera's recording schedule.
Key features:
- 4K UHD resolution with 8× hybrid zoom
- 360° pan and tilt for complete room coverage
- Night vision up to 32 feet with infrared lighting
- AI-powered tracking for moving family members or pets
- Privacy mode with easy activation and scheduling
- Patrol function for monitoring key areas like doorways or pet zones
3. Ring Indoor Cam (2nd Gen)
The Ring Indoor Cam is a versatile, easy-to-use security camera perfect for keeping an eye on your apartment. With 1080p HD video, you can monitor your space in high detail day or night. It features advanced pre-roll technology, recording a few seconds before motion is detected, so you get the full picture of any event. The manual privacy cover lets you disable the camera and microphone easily, and it also integrates seamlessly with Alexa for hands-free monitoring.
Who is it for?
The Ring Indoor Cam is ideal for renters looking for an affordable, flexible security camera solution. It's great for those who want quick and easy setup, privacy control, and smart home integration, especially with Alexa.
Key features:
- 1080p HD video with color night vision
- Advanced Pre-Roll for comprehensive motion event capture
- Manual Privacy Cover for camera and mic control
- Compatible with Alexa for hands-free monitoring
4. Blink Mini 2
The Blink Mini 2 is a compact, plug-in smart security camera that lets you monitor your apartment from your smartphone. With 1080p HD video, two-way audio, and color night vision, it offers crisp, clear footage anytime. The camera includes a built-in spotlight and supports motion alerts to notify you of activity. It's perfect for indoor use but can also be set up outdoors with a weather-resistant adapter.
Who is it for?
The Blink Mini 2 is great for those seeking an affordable, compact indoor security camera with smart features and optional outdoor use. It's perfect for users who prefer simple smartphone control and real-time alerts.
Key features:
- 1080p HD video with night vision
- Two-way audio for real-time communication
- Motion detection with customizable zones
- Works with Alexa for voice control
5. Arlo Ultra 2
The Arlo Ultra 2 is a powerful wireless security camera offering 4K HDR video quality and a wide 180-degree field of view. This camera is equipped with a built-in spotlight to deter intruders and advanced motion alerts with audio communication. You can enjoy color night vision for clear footage around the clock. The Arlo SmartHub allows for secure local storage and seamless connectivity to your home network.
Who is it for?
The Arlo Ultra 2 is perfect for those who need top-tier outdoor security with superior video quality, smart features, and reliable connectivity.
Key features:
- 4K HDR video for superior image quality
- 180° field of view with color night vision
- Integrated spotlight and motion alerts
- Two-way audio for direct communication
- Arlo SmartHub for reliable connectivity and secure local storage
6. Wyze Cam v3
The Wyze Cam v3 is a versatile, budget-friendly security camera that offers color night vision and IP65 weatherproofing, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. With its Starlight Sensor, the camera captures clear, full-color video even in low-light conditions. It also features 24/7 continuous recording when paired with a MicroSD card, and motion detection with customizable zones to avoid false alerts.
Who is it for?
The Wyze Cam v3 is ideal for users looking for a cost-effective, versatile security solution for both indoor and outdoor use. It's great for those who want continuous recording and smart integrations at an affordable price.
Key features:
- 1080p HD video with color night vision
- Motion and sound detection for instant alerts
- IP65 weatherproof rating for outdoor use
- Two-way communication
- IFTTT certification for smart home integration
7. WiZ Indoor Camera
The WiZ Indoor Camera offers reliable indoor security with full-duplex audio, allowing you to hear and respond to what's happening in real-time. It includes intelligent motion detection with masking features to avoid false alarms and pet rejection technology. The camera provides crystal-clear 1080p HD video and night vision via infrared lights. Additionally, it detects loud noises and sends instant alerts, ensuring you never miss important events.
Who is it for?
The WiZ Indoor Camera is ideal for those seeking a simple yet powerful indoor camera with advanced features like noise detection and pet-friendly motion tracking. It's great for renters who need easy installation and effective monitoring.
Key features:
- 1080p HD video with night vision
- Full-duplex audio for real-time communication
- Motion detection with pet rejection feature
- Works with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Security Cameras for Apartments
Choosing the best security camera for your apartment can feel overwhelming with so many options available. However, by focusing on some key factors, you can narrow down the choices and find the camera that best fits your needs:
- Video Quality: Look for cameras with at least 1080p resolution, though some newer models offer 2K or 4K for even sharper images. If you're placing the camera outside, also check for robust night vision to ensure you can see clearly in low-light conditions.
- Field of View and Coverage: Make sure the camera has a wide enough field of view to cover key areas of your apartment. For example, a camera with a 130° or wider field of view can cover large spaces like living rooms or entryways. Pan-and-tilt cameras are great if you need to monitor larger areas or want to reduce blind spots without installing multiple cameras.
- Power Source: Consider how the camera is powered. Wired cameras are more reliable for continuous monitoring but can be difficult to install in apartments where drilling might not be allowed. Wireless cameras, on the other hand, are easier to install and can run on batteries or solar power, but you'll need to keep an eye on battery life.
- Indoor vs. Outdoor Use: Determine whether the camera will be used indoors, outdoors, or both. Outdoor options need to be weatherproof and durable to withstand different weather conditions. If you're opting for indoor cameras, features like two-way audio or motion detection might be more important for communicating with visitors or monitoring pets.
- Storage Options: Check how the camera stores footage. Some cameras offer local storage through SD cards, while others store video in the cloud. While cloud storage can provide longer video history, it often comes with monthly subscription fees.
- Smart Features and Integration: Many modern security cameras come with smart features like motion detection, person or vehicle recognition, and even package detection. These features can help reduce false alerts and focus on what matters most. Additionally, check if the camera integrates with smart home systems like Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit for hands-free control.
- Privacy Controls: If privacy is a top concern, look for cameras with built-in privacy features like manual privacy covers or the ability to turn off the camera remotely. Some cameras allow you to schedule recording times or create specific zones for motion detection, ensuring you're not constantly monitored.
Alternative Option for Enhancing Your Apartment's Security -- Video Doorbells
When it comes to securing your apartment, video doorbells are an excellent addition or alternative to your security system. Not only do they allow you to monitor your front door in real time, but they also let you communicate with visitors and delivery personnel, even when you're not home.
They're easy to install, often wireless, and come with a range of smart features that make monitoring your entryway simple and effective. Below, we'll look at two great options for video doorbells that can enhance the security of your apartment:
eufy Video Doorbell E340 (Battery Powered)
The eufy Video Doorbell E340 offers a dual-camera system that provides comprehensive coverage of your doorstep. With a front-facing camera that focuses on people and a downward-facing camera that covers the area right in front of your door, you'll have a full view of any visitors and packages.
This doorbell captures video in 2K full HD clarity, giving you clear visuals whether it's day or night, thanks to its advanced color night vision technology. The best part? It's battery-powered, making installation quick and easy, and it offers local storage with no monthly subscription fees.
eufy Video Doorbell S330
The eufy Video Doorbell S330 takes apartment security to the next level with its dual-camera setup and advanced motion detection. The front-facing camera captures visitors at your door, while the adjustable second camera monitors your packages, reducing the risk of theft.
This doorbell features Dual Motion Detection, using both PIR and radar to accurately detect movement and body heat, drastically reducing false alarms. With 2K HDR video, you'll always see clear, detailed footage, even in bright sunlight or backlit situations. Plus, eufy's Delivery Guard feature keeps you informed of package deliveries and any suspicious activity around them.
Conclusion
Whether you're moving into a new apartment or simply looking to enhance your security, investing in the best security camera for apartment is one of the smartest choices you can make. By carefully considering key factors such as camera quality, installation ease, and integration with other smart devices, you can find the right model to keep your apartment safe and secure. If you frequently receive packages or want to monitor your front door in real-time, video doorbells like the eufy video doorbell E340 and S330, can be a great addition or alternative to security cameras, boosting your entryway security effectively.
FAQs
Can I put a security camera on my apartment door?
Yes, you can install a security camera on your apartment door, provided you have permission from your landlord or property management. A door-mounted camera can help monitor visitors and enhance security at your entrance. Make sure to choose a camera that complies with your building's regulations and doesn't obstruct common areas.
Can I install cameras on my condo balcony?
Installing cameras on your condo balcony is typically allowed, but it's essential to check your condo association's rules first. A balcony camera can provide a wider view of your surroundings and enhance security for outdoor spaces. Ensure the camera is securely mounted and does not invade the privacy of neighbors.
How can I ensure data security for security cameras for my apartment?
To ensure data security for your apartment's security cameras, use strong, unique passwords for your devices and Wi-Fi network. Regularly update your camera's firmware to protect against vulnerabilities. Additionally, consider using encrypted cloud storage to safeguard recorded footage from unauthorized access.
Can apartment security cameras be used outdoors?
Yes, many apartment security cameras are designed for outdoor use, but you should look for features like weatherproofing and night vision. Outdoor cameras can monitor entry points and common areas, providing added security. Make sure to install them in compliance with local regulations and your apartment rules.