The Complete List of Reliable Cheap Security Cameras

• Buying a cheap security camera doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice on features. Look for cameras from reliable brands that offer at least 1080p video, night vision, and easy Wi-Fi setup.
• Opting for wired over wireless connections can help you save even more money. You can get a good wired camera with all the features you need for under $50.

Security doesn’t have to break the bank. Cheap security cameras have come a long way, offering crisp video feeds and powerful features that rival some of the most expensive options on the market. We’ll walk you through everything you need to know about picking affordable security cameras: what to look for, how much to spend, and our best picks.

What to look for in a cheap security camera

Reliable brands

Online marketplaces are full of cheap security cameras of dubious quality. Don’t let the low price tag fool you; it’s best to stick to recognizable brands to avoid wasting your money on a lemon. For example, Arlo has been making affordable security cameras for over a decade, offering reputable, feature-rich products for any budget. If you see our name, you can be sure you’ll receive a high-quality product.

Connection type

Security cameras come in two varieties. Wired cameras need to be plugged into an external power source in order to work, while wireless cameras operate off of rechargeable batteries. Wireless cameras are more versatile, but the inclusion of the battery can increase the price you pay. If you have power sources readily available, choosing wired cameras can help you save a few bucks without sacrificing on other features.

At least 1080p video

Security camera technology is getting better every day. Even cheap security cameras should be able to achieve at least 1080p video, while some can even offer 2K resolution without getting too expensive. Since you need to be able to see the people and objects you’re recording, you shouldn’t skimp on video quality just to save some money. And with the right camera, you won’t have to.

Night vision

Like 1080p video, many affordable security cameras also include night vision capabilities via infrared or spotlights so you can record movement at any time of day, in any kind of lighting.

Easy Wi-Fi setup

Just because a security camera is affordable doesn’t mean it has to be hard to use. Many cheap security cameras, like the ones Arlo offers, provide an intuitive setup process that you can complete right from your phone. Just turn on the camera, find it in the app, tap a few buttons, and you’re good to go.

Usability without a subscription fee

Security camera subscriptions should be additive, not restrictive. Look for a cheap security camera that allows you to view your feed and receive motion detection notifications without paying extra.

How much should I spend on a cheap security camera?

How much you spend on a cheap security camera really depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re comfortable with wired connections, you can usually find a great camera for under $50. These cameras still come with a ton of features, too, like 2K video, Color Night Vision, Advanced Audio Detection, and more.

If you prefer wireless, you don’t need to spend much more for the privilege. Battery-powered security cameras tend to cost a bit more than their wired counterparts, but they’ll give you extra flexibility. Many affordable wireless cameras even include dual-band Wi-Fi for improved signal strength and compatibility.

Arlo’s best security cameras on a budget

Arlo offers a security camera for every purpose, for every budget. Here are some of our top picks under $100 (as of 2026).

For outdoors: Arlo Essential 3rd Gen ($69.99)

The Arlo Essential 3rd Gen offers a perfect balance between power, flexibility, and affordability. This battery-powered camera offers clear 2K video, a wide 130° Field of View, and Color Night Vision, allowing you to capture every detail. You’ll even get 2-Way Audio, Dual-Band Wi-Fi, and motion detection and alerts, giving you incredible control over your security in an economical package.

For indoors: Arlo Essential Indoor 3rd Gen ($39.99)

You have a lot more options for sourcing power when you’re setting up a security grid indoors, and going wired can help save you a ton of money. The Arlo Essential Indoor 3rd Gen has all of the same features as its wireless counterpart at a fraction of the cost. Plus, the Arlo Essential Indoor 3rd Gen camera includes an Automated Privacy Shield, giving you both peace of mind and privacy when you need it.

For the front door: Arlo Video Doorbell ($79.99)

Protect your porch with the powerfully affordable Arlo Video Doorbell. 2K video and a super-wide 180° captures everything that reaches your front door, while 2-Way Audio lets you answer it from anywhere in the world through your mobile device. And with a battery life of up to four months, you won’t need to worry about getting true ‘round-the-clock coverage.

Best upgrade picks

If you have a little more to spend in your budget, you can get even more bang for your buck with these affordable security cameras.

Best overall: Arlo Pro 6 ($124.99)

The Arlo Pro 6 is a robust security camera in a small package. It provides 2K video with 160° Field of View, making it a great choice for covering your entire property. Color Night Vision and high dynamic range (HDR) video improves video clarity during all times of the day, and Auto-Zoom and Tracking capabilities keep the focus on the most important areas of your Feed.

Best bundle: Arlo Ultra 3rd Gen ($349.99)

The Arlo Ultra 3rd Gen offers the highest-quality 4K HDR video, Auto-Zoom and Tracking capabilities, and a 180° Field of View. And when you opt for one of our Ultra bundles, you’ll get at least two cameras and the Arlo SmartHub, giving you a longer connectivity range and the ability to store videos locally via USB.

Enhance your affordable security cameras with Arlo Secure

You don’t need to pay for a subscription to keep your house secure. But you can get so much more out of your security system with the cloud-based, AI-powered features built into Arlo Secure.

For as little as $7.99 a month, you’ll get:

• A 60-Day Video History of your security feed accessible right from your smartphone.
• Customizable Smart Activity Zones that captures the most important areas on your feed and alerts you when anything enters them.
• An Early Warning System for customizable Person, Vehicle, Fire, Package, and Audio Detection, complete with captions.
• Upgrade to Arlo Secure Premium with 24/7 Professional Monitoring and 24/7 Emergency Response for the ultimate in security coverage. With Arlo Secure, you’ll have a partner watching over you, no matter your budget. Sign up today.

Shop Arlo Secure Plans

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