Does the thought of leaving your apartment unattended make you uneasy? Many renters worry about package theft, unauthorized entry, or just keeping an eye on their furry friends while they’re away. Choosing the perfect apartment surveillance camera can feel like navigating a maze. You face a flood of technical terms, confusing features, and questions about privacy rules. Which camera fits your small space? How do you install it without losing your security deposit? These challenges often leave people feeling overwhelmed and unsure of where to start.
This guide cuts through the noise. We break down everything you need to know about modern apartment security cameras. You will learn the key features that matter most, understand installation tips for renters, and discover how to choose a system that offers peace of mind without breaking the bank. Get ready to secure your space confidently. Let’s dive into finding the best camera for your apartment life.
Top Apartment Surveillance Camera Recommendations
No. 1
Blink Mini - Compact indoor plug-in smart security camera, 1080p HD video, night vision, motion detection, two-way audio, easy set up, Works with Alexa – 1 camera (White)
- Monitor the inside of your home day and night with our 1080P HD indoor plug-in smart security camera with motion detection and two-way audio.
- See, hear, and speak to people and pets in your home from your smartphone with Blink Mini’s live view and two-way audio.
- Get alerts on your smartphone whenever motion is detected or customize motion detection zones so you can see what matters most.
- Use Mini as an indoor plug-in chime for Blink Video Doorbell. Hear a real-time alert from Mini when someone presses your Video Doorbell.
- Choose to save and share clips with a free 30-day trial of the Blink Subscription Plan or locally with the Sync Module 2 (sold separately).
No. 2
Kasa 1080p Indoor Pan/Tilt Wired Security Camera - Works as a Baby & Pet Monitor, Motion Detection & Tracking, 2-Way Audio, Night Vision, Subscription-Free Local Storage or Optional Cloud, EC71
- 【Up, Down, All Around】This Pan/Tilt IP camera see everything across an entire room or walkway with the 360° horizontal and 113° vertical range pan/tilt field of view. Set up the 【Patrol Mode】on EC71 to monitor each region at intervals of your choosing.
- 【Motion Tracking】Kasa Smart Camera with Audio/Video can automatically track moving objects or people, providing real-time alerts and increasing the overall effectiveness of your security system. Connects via 2.4GHz Wi-Fi Band
- 【Detection & Instant Notification】Get instant push notifications when motion or a person is detected, you can even enable baby crying detection to use EC71 as a baby camera monitor. Discern from notifications that matter, so you'll know if it’s your pet playing around or if someone is actually there.
- 【2-Way Audio】Never truly leave home with the built-in 2-way audio. Use as a pet camera with phone app to comfort your pet from anywhere in the world.
- 【Secure Local or Cloud Storage】Save footage continuously on up to a 256 GB microSD card (not included) or subscribe to Kasa Care for cloud storage which saves 30-day video history and provides additional benefits such as “Video Summary”, “Activity Notifications with Snapshots” and more.
No. 3
2K No Drill Window Camera-2 Pack 2.4Ghz & 5Ghz WiFi Cameras for Home Security for Indoor & Outdoor Monitoring, Anti-Glare Color Night Vision, Human Detection, 24/7 Recording, Ideal for Apartment, K1
- High 2K Resolution Through Glass with Wide-Angle Coverage: INFIYA 2K window camera presents sharp image quality through windows without glare and reflection, capturing every detail even from a distance. Install the cameras for home security on any interior window with the magnetic sticker for a drill-free setup. The 105° wide-angle lens captures more of your yard, porch, or driveway, while the optimized glass-penetrating tech ensures clear footage with fewer blind spots
- Full-Color Night Vision: INFIYA window cameras for home security feature vivid color footage even in low-light conditions (such as starlight/moonlight) with our advanced Black Light Color Technology. These security cameras wireless outdoor are perfect for identifying intruders' clothing, vehicle colors, or license plates through your window at night, without the harsh glare of infrared lights and without being noticed, providing discreet and effective theft-proof surveillance
- Effortless Setup and Sharing: INFIYA window security camera gets you monitoring your front door and backyard in minutes with hassle-free, drill-free installation. Connect this indoor camera first, then simply peel and stick to any window for instant 24/7 outdoor viewing. Share this security camera access with family members directly through the app, keeping everyone informed. We are all protecting our home
- AI-Powered Human Detection & Instant Alerts: INFIYA outdoor camera wireless delivers precise human detection and sends real-time alerts to your phone while ignoring pets and vehicles(if set to human detection only). When human activity detected, this outdoor camera activates a three-layer theft-proof alert system: immediate app notifications, an optional siren, and automatic video clips. Perfect for monitoring package deliveries, window intruders, or suspicious loiterers around your home
- 24/7 Recording & Flexible Storage: INFIYA security camera indoor provides 24/7 recording with up to 128GB local storage (TF card not included) and secure cloud storage (optional). offer a 30-day trial of a subscription plan). Designed for indoor use, not affected by harsh weather. The smart overwrite function automatically manages storage space by prioritizing important events while cycling old footage. Safety guarded from day to night
No. 4
Ring Pan-Tilt Indoor Cam (newest model), See all around your home or business with 360° pan coverage, HD video, plus Two-Way Talk, White
- See all around — Control your view with Pan-Tilt Indoor Cam, featuring a smooth 360° view you control from your phone.
- Find your perfect angle — Pan 360° around your home and tilt up and down, all in the Ring app.
- Know and respond in real time — View and respond to activity with Live View and Two-Way Talk.
- See clearly, day or night — Get a clearer picture at any hour with HD Video and Color Night Vision.
- Easy DIY install — Easy to install and use. Just plug and place to secure any space.
No. 5
2K Cameras for Home Security,Indoor/Outdoor for Baby/Elder/Pet Monitoring with Phone app,Wired Plug&Play,Color Night Vision,2-Way Audio & 24/7 Recording,Support 128G Card ( Not Included),2-Pack
- 【Easy Setup Whole-Home Security Cameras】Ready to use right out of the box!This home security camera system lets you set up your home camera as a reliable outside camera for home security on your porch or as a camera for room in the nursery in just few minutes, delivering full-house protection instantly,2-year warranty, pls feel free to contact us with any questions.Note: For outdoor monitoring, mount cameras outdoors, Inside the window-Glare affects the shooting results.
- 【2K HD & Color Night Vision】Whether you’re watching pets play by day or clearly distinguishing if backyard movement is a cat or a stranger under moonlight, these 2k cameras for home security deliver ultra-clear 2K resolution and full-color night vision. Both our indoor cameras for home security and outdoor home surveillance cameras capture every critical detail—no blur, no missed moments. Need help with your camera for home security? Call +1(978)757-4977 for professional consulting to set up and optimize your VSMAHOME camera. Note: Working hours: Mon-Fri 9:00 am-18:00 pm (ET)
- 【IP66 Weatherproof Durability】Engineered for endurance, these cameras for home security deliver unwavering performance in any condition. From heavy rain to intense sun, they stand guard reliably around the clock.We recommend installing these outdoor cameras for home security under eaves or similar sheltered spots to maximize their lifespan. They are built not only to handle harsh outdoor climates with ease but also to remain fully functional even if accidentally splashed with water indoors.As a core part of your home security camera system, these outdoor cameras for home security serve as a trustworthy, year-round shield for your home.
- 【Dual Storage Solution: Local and Cloud】Choose cloud storage to automatically back up important events, or insert a memory card up to 128GB (not included) for continuous 24/7 recording. This flexible home security camera system ensures that all critical moments captured by your home surveillance cameras—whether it's your pet's mischievous moments or suspicious activity at your doorstep at night—can be easily retrieved and replayed.Cameras for Home Security.indoor outdoor camera，house cameras with audio and video，cameras for home security outdoor.
- 【Two-Way Talk & Motion Alerts】When your outdoor home security camera detects a delivery person at your doorstep, it instantly notifies you via your phone. You can directly speak through this home camera with audio and video and say, "Please leave the package at the door." Or, when your baby is crying, use the camera for room to soothe them with a gentle voice, as if you were right there by their side.cameras for home security,security camera，home security camera system,outdoor camera,home camera,outside camera.indoor camera.
No. 6
adorcam Indoor Camera for Home Security: 5G & 2.4G WiFi 2K 360° Pan Tilt Camera with 2 Way Audio Night Vision Phone App Video Surveillance for House Room Apartment Monitoring Baby Nanny Pet Dog Cat
- 2.4g & 5ghz Dual Band WiFi & Motion Detaction: More Stable and Easier to connect with your phone. It is equipped with a motion detection sensor that sends instant alarm alerts to your phone upon detecting movement, ensuring you don't miss any important moments(wired camera, with DC5V plug in), mointoring well your baby, elderly parents, nanny, pet, dog or cat.
- 2K HD & Pan/Tilt Camera: 2K: 2304*1296 Resolution Ultra Clear Image; Horizontal 360° and vertical 100° Pan Tilt Movement, keeping an eye on every corner of your home, such as bedroom, living room, baby nursery, kitchen, playroom.
- 2 Way Audio & Night Vision: With built-in audio and a responsive speaker, the indoor security camera lets you talk to pets or loved ones at home or remote while away. Infrared night vision captures details in low light, with up to 33 feet visibility, offering peace of mind even in total darkness.
- Multiple Users Shared: Easily grant viewing access to multiple family members. This cameras for home security indoor supports simultaneous viewing, making it great for sharing sweet moments or checking in together.
- Cloud Storage & SD Card Record: Adorcam home camera supports both cloud storage and microSD cards (up to 256GB, not included). Comes with a 7-day free cloud trial. All video files are secured using encryption technology to help keep your data private and protected.
No. 7
TP-Link Tapo 1080P Indoor Security Camera for Baby Monitor, Dog Camera w/Motion Detection, 2-Way Audio Siren, Night Vision, Cloud & SD Card Storage, Works w/Alexa & Google Home (Tapo C100)
- 【Motion Detection & Instant Notification】Get instant push notifications when motion, person or baby crying is detected, there is no additional fee to use it as a baby camera monitor. Discern from notifications that matter, so you'll know if its your pet playing around or if someone is actually there. Connects via 2.4GHz Wi-Fi Band
- 【2-Way Audio w/ Built In Siren】Never truly leave home with the built-in 2-way audio. Use as a pet camera with phone app to comfort your pet from anywhere in the world. Keep your family safe with cameras for home security indoor by warding off intruders.
- 【Night Vision up to 30 Ft.】Never miss a thing that goes on, even at night thanks to the integrated IR system on this indoor camera which provides 30 feet of night vision.
- 【1080P FHD】Capture every detail inside your home with crystal-clear 1080P high definition video with this indoor security camera. Easily see what your baby is holding or what your pet is playing with. Connects via 2.4GHz Wi-Fi Band
- 【Works w/ Alexa & Google Home】Fully compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, use your simple voice command to view Tapo indoor security camera live stream on Echo Show or Google Chrome Cast with a screen. Easily get your home security footage up on a larger TV display.
No. 8
LaView Security Cameras 4pcs, Home Security Camera Indoor 1080P, Wi-Fi Cameras Wired for Pet, Motion Detection, Two-Way Audio, Night Vision, Phone App, Works with Alexa, iOS & Android & Web Access
- Stay Connected Anywhere: This wired Wi-Fi Camera access 24/7 live streams via LaView app on mobile or web browser; supports up to 9 simultaneous live feeds; stay in touch with your home at all times
- 1080P HD & Night Vision: Capture clear 2.1MP live views; equipped with advanced IR night vision for up to 33 ft coverage; compatible with 2.4GHz WiFI network(5GHz not supported); ensures quality monitoring even in darkness
- Motion Detection & Clear Two-way audio: Instant motion detection with smart alerts; this indoor home security camera supports clear two-way audio with noise cancellation; stay informed and communicate with family anytime
- Fit for most scenes & Sharing: The camera can be installed anywhere such as the living room & kitchen & office; space-efficient design; share access with up to 20 people; monitor multiple cameras from a single account
- 30 days free-trial US Cloud Storage & Micro-SD Storage: 30-day US cloud storage trial; The cloud storage bases on the AWS server in the US to encrypt your data and avoid the risk of losing video clips; microSD slot up to 128GB; store recordings securely
Choosing the Right Apartment Surveillance Camera: Your Complete Buying Guide
Securing your apartment is important. A good surveillance camera gives you peace of mind. This guide helps you pick the best one for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
Different cameras offer different things. Think about what you need most.
Video Quality
- Resolution: Look for at least 1080p (Full HD). Higher resolution means clearer pictures. Clear pictures help you see faces or details better.
- Night Vision: Your camera must see in the dark. Infrared (IR) night vision is common. Check how far the night vision reaches.
Connectivity and Storage
- Wi-Fi Connection: Most modern cameras use Wi-Fi. Make sure the camera works well with your home router’s speed.
- Storage Options: How will you save recordings? Some cameras use local storage (SD cards). Others use cloud storage (you pay a monthly fee). Cloud storage is safer if someone steals the camera.
Alerts and Audio
- Motion Detection: The camera should only alert you when something happens. Good cameras let you set “activity zones” to ignore pets or swaying trees.
- Two-Way Audio: This feature lets you listen and talk through the camera. You can tell a delivery person where to leave a package.
Important Materials and Build Quality
The camera’s body matters for how long it lasts.
Indoor vs. Outdoor
- Indoor Cameras: These usually use plastic bodies. They stay protected from the weather. Focus more on size and design for indoor models.
- Outdoor Cameras (If applicable for balconies): If you place a camera outside, it needs strong weatherproofing. Look for an IP rating (like IP65 or higher). This rating shows how well it resists dust and water.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a camera much better or much worse to use.
Improving Quality
- Wide Field of View (FOV): A wider angle lets the camera see more of the room without needing multiple cameras. Aim for 130 degrees or more.
- Fast Response Time: When motion happens, the camera should start recording and sending alerts quickly. Slow response means you might miss important moments.
Reducing Quality (Things to Avoid)
- Poor Low-Light Performance: If the color picture looks muddy even in bright indoor light, the sensor quality is low.
- Subscription Traps: Some cameras only offer live viewing unless you pay a subscription. Read the fine print about what features are free.
User Experience and Use Cases
How easy is the camera to use every day?
Setup and App Experience
The setup process should be simple. Most apps guide you step-by-step. A confusing app frustrates users quickly. Test how easy it is to review old footage. If finding past events takes many taps, the user experience suffers.
Common Use Cases
- Package Monitoring: Place a camera near your door (if allowed by your lease) to watch deliveries. Two-way talk is great here.
- Pet Monitoring: Check on pets while you are at work. Good audio helps you soothe a barking dog.
- General Security: Cover main entry points like the front door or living room.
Apartment Surveillance Camera FAQ
Q: Do I need permission to put up a camera in my apartment?
A: Generally, you can install cameras inside your private space. However, you should never point a camera into a neighbor’s window or common areas without checking your lease agreement first. Always respect privacy laws.
Q: What is the difference between a doorbell camera and a standard indoor camera?
A: A doorbell camera is specifically designed for the front door, often battery-powered, and focuses on faces and packages. An indoor camera covers a wider room view and usually needs to be plugged in.
Q: How much data does a security camera use?
A: It depends on the video quality. 1080p streaming uses more data than lower quality. If you have a data limit on your internet plan, choose a camera that lets you lower the recording quality slightly.
Q: Can I use my phone to see the live feed from anywhere?
A: Yes, if the camera is connected to Wi-Fi and you are logged into the app, you can usually check the live feed from outside your home using cellular data or another Wi-Fi network.
Q: Are cloud storage fees expensive?
A: Fees vary widely. They can range from $3 to $20 per month per camera. Always budget for this cost if you want cloud backup.
Q: What if my apartment has weak Wi-Fi in one corner?
A: You might need a Wi-Fi extender or a camera that uses a different connection method, like a wired Ethernet connection if available. Weak Wi-Fi causes constant disconnections.
Q: Should I look for local storage or cloud storage?
A: Local storage (SD card) is free after the initial purchase. Cloud storage provides off-site backup, which is much safer if the camera gets stolen or damaged.
Q: How important is the viewing angle?
A: It is very important. A small viewing angle means you might have a blind spot in your room. A wider angle covers more area with one device.
Q: Do these cameras record 24/7?
A: Some do, but most apartment cameras are set to record only when motion is detected to save storage space and battery life. Check the product specifications.
Q: What are ‘Activity Zones’?
A: Activity Zones allow you to draw boxes on the camera’s view where you want motion alerts turned on. This stops you from getting alerts every time the air conditioner turns on inside your apartment.