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Best hidden outdoor security cameras

Having a proper home security setup can be crucial to you and your family’s longevity and adding hidden outdoor security cameras is an essential addition. Outdoor surveillance is one of the best ways to be aware of any danger before it becomes truly dangerous. Setting up visible outdoor cameras can lead to them being broken or circumvented. A combination of visible and hidden cameras will cover your blind spots. A properly placed hidden camera can catch criminals putting on their mask or destroying your visible camera. A multilayered approach is the best way to effectively deter negative elements.

Hidden wireless outdoor security camera systems can also be used alone to catch unsuspected robbers as well. You don’t have to break the bank to find cheap hidden outdoor security cameras that can keep you safe. A variety of technologies are available for clear audio and visual footage even at night. The best way to protect your loved ones and possessions is to have as much evidence as possible of any criminal activity. Finding the right high quality hidden security camera for outdoors is a great preliminary response.

Types of hidden outdoor security cameras

The key to any inconspicuous outdoor security camera starts without a wire and extends to differences in how they receive power and transmit data.

Wirefree Hidden Outdoor Security Camera – Completely battery-powered and totally wireless these cameras can’t be connected to your main power. You can find options with solar panel add ons for more reliable power. This type of camera is essential when you don’t have a way to get power, the internet, or both. Relatively self-sufficient these cameras usually save directly to an internal hard drive of some sort.

Wireless Hidden Outdoor Security Camera with WiFi – These security cameras are capable of using main your main power though also come with a rechargeable battery. The main difference for this type is their WiFi connectivity. This will allow you to communicate with apps and stream directly to your phone or computer.

Wireless PoE Hidden Outdoor Security Camera with WiFi – Just like the last two these will also be battery powered. You can also expect to find WiFi on any model that has PoE. PoE stands for Power over Ethernet and allows this type of camera to stay powered through the internet. These often have the highest prices for the convenience of being relatively set and forget.

Best hidden outdoor security cameras

There are a variety of factors to consider when purchasing an outdoor security camera. With this in mind, we have gathered a few of the best options to help you on your way. Because
who has time to go through every hidden outdoor security camera review?

Panasonic HomeHawk Outdoor Wireless Smart Home Security Camera

9.7Expert Score
Panasonic HomeHawk Outdoor Wireless Smart Home Security Camera

If you don’t mind spending some extra cash you can really go for it with this hidden outdoor security camera. Sometimes reaching over $550 you can luckily find this camera setup for around $320. This three-camera kit should help you cover every angle. With a degree range of 172 degrees going beyond 360 for total coverage is hardly an issue. Completely wire-free these cameras use a long-lasting rechargeable battery that can last for up to 3 months. They start recording upon motion detection and save directly to their own Micro SD card. Vocal alerts are customizable along with 2-way talk for speaking through the camera. The best feature has to be the full-color night vision however that sets it apart.

PROS
  • Incredible vision range
  • Full-color night vision
  • Super easy setup
CONS
  • High price
  • Can’t set timers
  • Needs WiFi

Wansview Outdoor Security Camera

Wansview Outdoor Security Camera
9.6Expert Score
Wansview Outdoor Security Camera

Our lowest priced option can be found for under $100 and comes with two cameras so you can see multiple angles. This Wansview package includes two 4MP HD lens cameras which produce 1080p visuals. It also features WiFi connectivity so you can stream the footage to the included app. Currently hovering around $60 these cameras make for an affordable home surveillance solution. When mounted from a high angle these cameras have a 105-degree range of vision. You will need to plug into an outlet for a power source, however. Wireless in this case only pertains to how it streams its data. With motion detection and remote access, you can feel comfortable leaving the house. Real-time alerts can be sent upon motion detection so you don’t miss any emergencies.

PROS
  • Comes with two durable cameras
  • 24 IR LEDs for 60-foot night vision
  • Works with Alexa
  • Cheap price for great value
CONS
  • Only works with a specific app
  • No audio recording
  • No audible alarm

Reolink Wireless Outdoor Security Camera

Reolink Wireless Outdoor Security Camera
9.5Expert Score
Reolink Wireless Outdoor Security Camera

Sitting at just below the century mark this $95 inconspicuous outdoor security camera combines a sleek look with solid features. While you only get one camera the addition of audio recording is always nice. Even better you can see more with a 130 degree wide viewing angle. Not bad for a completely wireless model that fits around the middle of the price range. You can get a couple of months out of a single charge. Purchasing the solar panel add-on can help you sustain power without taking it down. This model also comes with impressive motion detection. It will record for 6 seconds and sends alerts immediately outpacing other brands. You will also find a siren alarm that is activated by a motion sensor. You can switch out the alarm for a prerecorded message.

PROS
  • Instant notifications
  • 2-way audio
  • Starlight Night Vision
  • Local storage or streaming
CONS
  • Some comparable models batteries last years
  • No free cloud storage

FAQs

How to hide a security camera outside?

You don’t have to be too creative when hiding a camera with the natural elements and height doing their part. Hiding in plain sight can be done in a variety of ways like a perch under an awning. Placing a camera behind a bird feeder or light fixture can also be solid options. Thick shrubbery is another possibility though it might require more adjustment over time. Camouflage coloring can also do wonders. You can often hide cameras in plain sight as well for a natural deterrent.

How do you find hidden cameras outside?

Finding hidden cameras outside can be done the same ay as inside. Beyond looking for suspicious placements of objects your phone is a great resource. By identifying which side of your phone reacts to infrared you can spot hidden cameras in low light situations by their glowing infrared lights. An RF detector is another option for cameras that transmit data over radio waves. You could also use thermal detection to look for out of place heat sources.