Camera quality
Camera resolution and field of view are key to getting all the detail you need from a security camera. Higher resolutions like 2K and fields of view over 130 degrees are signs of a good home security camera. It's a bonus if the cameras can pan and tilt to capture additional areas. This goes hand-in-hand with the quality of the app, which should enable easy, highly detailed live previews on demand.
Design quality
We prefer cameras with a sturdy, compact construction that can be placed or mounted in a variety of positions for quick installation. Design can also add a lot of value to a camera — the ability to turn on a spotlight or sound a siren can be very useful for home security. Motion detection features are also customizable, with options like motion zones and privacy zones to reduce false alerts and motion sensitivity. You should be able to tweak the settings until you get exactly the notifications you need.
Wired vs. Wireless
Wired cameras do not require charging and tend to be a bit more affordable, but they are more limited in terms of setup and require more outdoor installation work. Wireless cameras are easier to set up and avoid cable complications, but you must charge or replace the batteries, usually every few months or so. We greatly favor wireless cameras when possible, but wired cameras can be a useful choice, especially for models like video doorbells that can connect to existing doorbell wiring.
Audio
Smart home security cameras should offer two-way audio that allows for quick communication through the app. There are no two-way audio features that work with Apple's HomePod line, but they can work through other apps.
Object recognition
Object recognition is the ability to distinguish between objects such as people, pets, vehicles and packages, and then send you customized alerts or ignore certain objects. It's a very important feature for modern security cameras, but it's sometimes locked behind subscriptions.
Video storage
Video storage is not an absolute requirement, but we strongly recommend the ability to save, download and share videos with any camera. Sometimes this feature is locked behind a cloud storage subscription — like iCloud+ — but in other cases, you have the option of local storage with a microSD card or similar setup. Local storage is more expensive to set up, but it keeps you away from the cloud and away from subscription fees if you want to avoid them.
Additional support for smart home
Apple support is guaranteed for our list, you might want cameras that have additional smart home support, like working with Alexa or Google Home. If you have an existing security system, look for a device that can be integrated into your existing dashboard or applications.