15 Best Budget Security Cameras Under $100 (2025 Complete Guide)
Home security doesn’t have to drain your wallet. Finding reliable security cameras under $100 is not only possible but can provide professional-grade protection for your property. This comprehensive guide reveals the top 15 budget-friendly security cameras that deliver exceptional value without compromising on essential features like HD video, night vision, and smart alerts.
Whether you’re securing a small apartment or monitoring your entire home, these carefully selected security cameras prove that effective surveillance is accessible to everyone. From wireless options to solar-powered models, we’ve tested and reviewed the most cost-effective solutions available in 2025.
For a complete overview of apartment security beyond just cameras, including no-drill installation methods and complete security systems under $200, check out our comprehensive Apartment Security Guide 2025: Complete Solutions for Budget-Conscious Renters.
Executive Summary
For readers in a hurry, here are our top recommendations:
- Best Overall: TP-Link Tapo C200 – Exceptional features for $30
- Best for Outdoors: Dzees 2K Solar PTZ Camera – Solar-powered and weather-resistant
- Best No Subscription: Reolink E1 Pro – Professional features without monthly fees
- Best Alexa Compatibility: Blink Mini 2 – Perfect Amazon integration
- Best Value: Wyze Cam V3 – Color night vision for $30
Table of Contents
- Why Choose Budget Security Cameras
- Top 15 Budget Security Cameras
- Complete Comparison Table
- Pros and Cons Summary
- Storage Costs Breakdown
- Best Camera by Environment
- How to Choose the Right Camera
- Advanced Features in Budget Cameras
- Installation and Setup Guide
- FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Why Choose Budget Security Cameras?
Modern security cameras under $100 offer features that were once exclusive to premium models. Today’s budget options include 1080p HD recording, motion detection, two-way audio, and smartphone integration. The key is knowing which models deliver the best value without hidden costs or subscription requirements.
Essential Features in Budget Security Cameras
Quality security cameras in this price range should include:
- 1080p HD resolution for clear daytime footage
- Motion detection with customizable zones
- Night vision for 24/7 monitoring
- Free smartphone alerts and live viewing
- Easy installation with minimal technical requirements
- Local storage options to avoid monthly fees
Top 15 Budget Security Cameras Under $100
1. TP-Link Tapo C200 ($30)
The TP-Link Tapo C200 leads our list of security cameras after extensive testing. This pan-and-tilt camera offers exceptional value with professional features at an entry-level price.
Key Features:
- 1080p Full HD resolution
- 360-degree horizontal rotation
- Advanced night vision up to 30 feet
- Motion tracking and detection zones
- Two-way audio communication
- MicroSD card support up to 256GB
Best for: Indoor monitoring with comprehensive coverage
2. Wyze Cam V3 ($30)
Wyze continues to dominate the budget security cameras market with the V3 model, offering premium features at an unbeatable price point.
Key Features:
- 1080p Full HD with color night vision
- IP65 weatherproof rating
- 14 days of free cloud storage
- Person and pet detection
- Compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant
- Local storage via microSD card
Best for: Outdoor monitoring with weather resistance
3. Blink Mini 2 ($40)
Amazon’s Blink Mini 2 represents excellent integration among security cameras for Alexa users, offering seamless smart home connectivity.
Key Features:
- 1080p HD video recording
- Two-way audio communication
- Motion detection with alerts
- Battery or wired power options
- Weather-resistant design
- Perfect Alexa integration
Best for: Smart home integration and Alexa users
4. Reolink E1 Pro ($55)
Reolink’s E1 Pro offers professional-grade features among security cameras with excellent pan-tilt capabilities and no subscription requirements.
Key Features:
- 1080p Super HD resolution
- 355° pan and 50° tilt range
- Advanced night vision
- People and pet detection
- Local storage up to 128GB
- No subscription required
Best for: Professional features without monthly fees
5. Dzees 2K Solar PTZ Camera ($69.99)
The Dzees 2K Solar PTZ Camera offers a cost-effective and reliable alternative for those seeking a full-featured outdoor surveillance solution with solar power and remote control capabilities.
Key Features:
- 2K resolution (~4MP) for clear video footage
- Pan 355° and tilt 90° with digital zoom
- Solar-powered with built-in rechargeable battery
- Wireless via 2.4GHz Wi-Fi
- Motion detection with AI human filtering
- Real-time push notifications through mobile app
- Built-in spotlight, siren, and two-way audio
- IP66-rated weather resistance for outdoor use
Best for: Remote locations and eco-friendly operation
6. OOSSXX Solar Security Camera ($90)
OOSSXX’s Solar Security Camera combines H.265+ compression with solar-powered autonomy, delivering smart surveillance, wide coverage, and efficient storage at an unbeatable price.
Key Features:
- 4 MP resolution (2500×1600) with H.265+ compression
- AI-powered human detection with PIR motion sensing
- Ultra-wide 130° field of view
- Two-way audio via mobile app
- Local microSD and optional cloud storage
- IP66 weather-resistant metal housing
- Solar-powered operation with built-in rechargeable battery
- Wi-Fi connectivity (2.4 GHz)
Best for: Smart alerts, wireless installation, and long-term energy-efficient monitoring
7. Techage HD 4K POE ($60)
For those seeking 4K quality in budget security cameras, the Techage HD 4K POE offers exceptional resolution with Power over Ethernet convenience.
Key Features:
- 4K Ultra HD resolution
- Power over Ethernet (POE)
- Advanced night vision
- Motion detection zones
- Weather-resistant design
- Professional installation options
Best for: Professional installation with highest resolution
8. TIEJUS Solar PTZ 2K Camera ($38)
The TIEJUS Solar PTZ Camera delivers a fully wireless, solar-powered security cameras solution—robust enough for outdoor surveillance while remaining budget-friendly.
Key Features:
- 2K (≈4 MP) resolution for clear daytime and nighttime footage
- Pan nearly 360° and tilt control with digital zoom
- Rechargeable battery with solar panel for cordless operation
- Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz connectivity
- PIR-based motion detection with AI enhancement
- Two-way audio communication via app
- Full-color night vision and IP66 weatherproof housing
Best for: Ultra-budget solar-powered surveillance
9. Arlo Essential 2K ($99)
Arlo’s Essential 2K pushes the boundaries of budget security cameras with 2K resolution and advanced smart features.
Key Features:
- 2K Ultra HD resolution
- 130° field of view
- Advanced motion detection
- Two-way audio
- Weather-resistant design
- Smart platform integration
Best for: Premium features at budget price point
10. SimpliSafe Camera ($75)
SimpliSafe offers integrated security cameras that work seamlessly with their broader home security ecosystem.
Key Features:
- 1080p HD recording
- Motion detection zones
- Two-way audio
- Night vision capability
- System integration
- Professional monitoring options
Best for: Integrated security system approach
11. Ring Indoor Cam ($60)
Ring’s Indoor Cam brings Amazon’s ecosystem integration to security cameras with excellent Alexa compatibility.
Key Features:
- 1080p HD video
- Two-way audio
- Motion detection
- Night vision
- Alexa integration
- Cloud storage options
Best for: Amazon ecosystem and indoor monitoring
12. eufy Security Indoor Cam C220 ($35)
The eufy Security Indoor Cam C220 delivers excellent value among security cameras, offering 2K video with 360° pan/tilt, AI human detection, and seamless smart home support.
Key Features:
- 2K (≈4 MP) resolution with dynamic 360° pan and tilt control
- AI-powered human motion detection and tracking
- Two-way audio communication
- IR night vision (up to ~26 ft)
- Compatible with Google Assistant and Alexa
- Plug-in wired design for reliable indoor use
- Local storage via microSD or optional cloud backup
Best for: Smart home compatibility and AI features
13. EZVIZ H8C 2K+ ($100)
EZVIZ’s H8C delivers comparable functionality among security cameras, offering motorized pan-tilt, auto-tracking, and AI-powered detection at a competitive price point.
Key Features:
- 2K+ resolution with AI-based human detection and auto-tracking
- 360° pan and 90° tilt control with digital zoom support
- Two-way audio and color night vision with active spotlight
- Wi-Fi connectivity compatible with Google Assistant and Alexa
- MicroSD local storage up to 256 GB (cloud subscription optional)
- Weatherproof housing (IP65) for outdoor deployment
Best for: Advanced AI tracking and outdoor monitoring
14. Zmodo Mini Pro ($45)
Zmodo’s Mini Pro delivers essential security cameras features in a compact, affordable package perfect for basic monitoring needs.
Key Features:
- 1080p HD video
- Motion detection
- Two-way audio
- Night vision
- Cloud storage
- Mobile app control
Best for: Basic monitoring on tight budget
15. Geeni Look ($35)
Geeni Look completes our list of budget security cameras with smart home integration and essential monitoring features.
Key Features:
- 1080p HD recording
- Motion detection
- Two-way audio
- Night vision
- Smart home integration
- Cloud storage options
Best for: Smart home compatibility and basic features
Complete Comparison Table
| Camera | Price | Resolution | Night Vision | Storage | Use Type | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TP-Link Tapo C200 | $30 | 1080p | Advanced | Local/Cloud | Indoor | Pan-tilt, tracking |
| Wyze Cam V3 | $30 | 1080p | Color | Local/Cloud | Outdoor | Weather-resistant |
| Blink Mini 2 | $40 | 1080p | Standard | Cloud | Indoor/Outdoor | Alexa integration |
| Reolink E1 Pro | $55 | 1080p | Advanced | Local | Indoor | PTZ, no fees |
| Dzees 2K Solar PTZ | $69.99 | 2K | Advanced | Local/Cloud | Outdoor | Solar, spotlight |
| OOSSXX Solar Security | $90 | 4MP | Advanced | Local/Cloud | Outdoor | Solar, H.265+, wide angle |
| Techage HD 4K POE | $60 | 4K | Advanced | Local | Indoor/Outdoor | POE, highest resolution |
| TIEJUS Solar PTZ 2K | $38 | 2K | Color | Local | Outdoor | Solar, ultra-budget |
| Arlo Essential 2K | $99 | 2K | Advanced | Cloud | Outdoor | Wide field of view |
| SimpliSafe Camera | $75 | 1080p | Standard | Cloud | Indoor | System integration |
| Ring Indoor Cam | $60 | 1080p | Standard | Cloud | Indoor | Alexa, ecosystem |
| eufy Security C220 | $35 | 2K | Standard | Local/Cloud | Indoor | AI tracking, Google |
| EZVIZ H8C 2K+ | $100 | 2K+ | Color | Local/Cloud | Outdoor | AI tracking, PTZ |
| Zmodo Mini Pro | $45 | 1080p | Standard | Cloud | Indoor | Compact design |
| Geeni Look | $35 | 1080p | Standard | Cloud | Indoor | Smart home ready |
Pros and Cons Summary
| Camera | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| TP-Link Tapo C200 | Pan-tilt, local recording, no subscription | Indoor use only |
| Wyze Cam V3 | Color night vision, IP65, low price | Needs nearby outlet |
| Blink Mini 2 | Alexa compatible, optional battery | Limited night vision |
| Reolink E1 Pro | Excellent image, PTZ, no monthly fees | Setup requires knowledge |
| Dzees 2K Solar PTZ | Solar power, 2K, spotlight alerts | Lesser known brand |
| OOSSXX Solar Security | H.265+ compression, wide angle, solar | Higher price, newer brand |
Storage Costs Breakdown
| Brand | Free Storage | Paid Plan | Additional Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| TP-Link | Local storage | Tapo Care: $2.99/month | AI features, advanced notifications |
| Wyze | 14 days cloud | Cam Plus: $1.99/month | Person detection, continuous recording |
| Blink | Live view only | Blink Plan: $3/month | Cloud recording, sharing |
| Ring | No recording without plan | Ring Protect: $3.99/month | Recording, neighbor sharing |
| Reolink | Unlimited local storage | Not applicable | No monthly fees |
| Arlo | 3 months limited | Arlo Secure: $4.99/month | Extended recording, smart detection |
| eufy | Local storage | eufy Cloud: $2.99/month | Extended cloud storage |
| EZVIZ | Local storage | EZVIZ CloudPlay: $5.99/month | Cloud storage, AI features |
| OOSSXX | Local storage | Cloud option: $4.99/month | H.265+ compression, smart alerts |
Best Camera by Environment
Front Door/Entrance
- First choice: Ring Indoor Cam ($60)
- Alternative: Blink Mini 2 ($40)
- Why: Doorbell integration, smart alerts, Amazon ecosystem
Backyard/Outdoor Area
- First choice: OOSSXX Solar Security Camera ($90)
- Alternative: Dzees 2K Solar PTZ Camera ($69.99)
- Why: Solar power, wide angle coverage, H.265+ compression
Garage
- First choice: Reolink E1 Pro ($55)
- Alternative: Techage HD 4K POE ($60)
- Why: PTZ for wide coverage, local storage, 4K option
Apartment/Indoor Living Areas
- First choice: TP-Link Tapo C200 ($30)
- Alternative: eufy Security Indoor Cam C220 ($35)
- Why: Advanced features, affordable price, AI tracking
Remote Locations/Farms
- First choice: TIEJUS Solar PTZ 2K Camera ($38)
- Alternative: OOSSXX Solar Security Camera ($90)
- Why: Solar power, completely wireless operation, budget-friendly
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need internet for these security cameras?
Not necessarily. Some security cameras like the Reolink E1 Pro can record locally to SD cards without internet. However, remote access, live viewing, and smartphone alerts typically require Wi-Fi connectivity.
What’s the difference between local and cloud storage?
Local storage records directly to the camera’s SD card (no monthly fees, but limited space and no remote access). Cloud storage uploads to company servers (remote access anywhere, but requires monthly subscription fees).
Do these cameras work without light?
Yes, all featured security cameras have infrared night vision. Some premium models like the Wyze Cam V3 and EZVIZ H8C 2K+ offer color night vision with minimal ambient light.
Are these cameras difficult to install?
Most budget security cameras are designed for DIY installation. Indoor models take 5-10 minutes, while outdoor installations may require 30-60 minutes and basic tools.
Which cameras have the best night vision?
For budget models, the Wyze Cam V3 offers excellent color night vision, while the EZVIZ H8C 2K+ provides color night vision with spotlight. The OOSSXX Solar Security Camera also offers good night vision performance.
Can I use multiple cameras from different brands?
Yes, but you’ll need separate apps for each brand. For unified monitoring, stick with one brand or consider a system that supports multiple camera types.
Conclusion
The world of budget security cameras has evolved dramatically, offering professional-grade features at accessible prices. These 15 carefully selected models prove that effective home security doesn’t require a premium investment or ongoing subscription fees.
Whether you choose the versatile TP-Link Tapo C200 for comprehensive indoor monitoring, the solar-powered OOSSXX Solar Security Camera for advanced outdoor protection, or the feature-rich eufy Security C220 for AI-powered detection, you’re investing in proven security cameras that deliver reliable protection for your home and family.
The key to success lies in matching your specific needs with the right camera features. Consider your installation preferences, storage requirements, smart home ecosystem, and budget constraints when making your selection. With proper installation and maintenance, these security cameras will provide years of reliable service and invaluable peace of mind.
For most homeowners, we recommend starting with 2-3 security cameras in key locations: one indoor camera for main living areas, one outdoor camera for primary entry points, and one solar-powered camera for remote monitoring. This approach allows you to test functionality, understand your specific needs, and gradually expand your system as required.
Your home’s security is invaluable, and with these carefully vetted security cameras, you can achieve professional-grade protection without breaking the budget. The future of home security is accessible, affordable, and more capable than ever before. Start building your security system today and enjoy the confidence that comes with knowing your home is properly protected.
Related video: Best security camera Under $100 | 5 Best Cheap Home Security Cameras for 2025
