I need an outdoor security cam. Got any recommendations?
Spencer Hart replies: Outdoor security cameras are a great way of keeping an eye on the exterior of your property. Gone are the days of needing miles of bothersome wiring routed through your walls and a hard drive stashed in your loft. Now there’s a wide selection of affordable, Wi-Fi enabled cameras that can stream footage to your smartphone and the cloud, and send notifications to your smartphone or tablet if they detect unusual behaviour on your property. This gives you peace of mind if you’re away from home, enabling you to check on your abode with a few taps.
There are lots of brands making such security cameras, with two of our favourites including the Netgear Arlo Smart Security System (from £409.99) and the Nest Cam Outdoor (£179). Both of these cameras are fully weather-proof, so you can position them outside without having to worry about rain and cold temperatures damaging them.
The Netgear Arlo is wireless and runs on four CR123 batteries, which last (on average) around six months. The Arlo cameras (included in the system are four Arlo smart security cameras and two Arlo Q cameras) connect to a low powered Wi-Fi hub plugged into your router. They will only begin recording if they sense movement. The Nest Outdoor Cam records 24/7 but relies on a reinforced power cable that can either be plugged into an external outlet or internally (requiring a hole drilled through your wall). Nest also has a built-in speaker, so if you do see someone hop over your fence without permission you can tell them to go away quick smart.
Image quality from the Nest and Arlo cameras is similar, so the brand you choose depends on your specific security needs. It may also be worth you waiting a little longer before purchasing, as the Ring Floodlight Cam and the Bosch Eyes-Outdoor Camera are being released this year. Both cameras look worthy contenders for your cash.