Home security has become incredibly important for Canadians. With rising crime rates nationwide, more people want to protect their families and possessions. A great way to do this is by installing security cameras around your property. Suitable cameras can deter criminals and record evidence if a crime does occur.
Choosing the best security camera for your needs can take time and effort with so many models on the market. This guide will examine Canada’s top 10 security cameras for home use. We’ll look at key features, pros and cons, and pricing so you can select the perfect camera for your home.
Why Install Security Cameras at Home?
Before jumping into the top cameras, let’s examine why you should install security cameras in the first place. Here are some of the biggest reasons Canadians are embracing home security cameras:
- Deter Crime: Cameras are a proven way to deter criminals. Most burglars will avoid homes with visible cameras.
- Record Evidence: If a crime does occur, cameras capture video evidence to help identify perpetrators. This can aid police investigations.
- Monitor Property: Keep an eye on your home even when you’re out. View live or recorded footage anytime from your phone.
- Protect Packages: Catch thieves trying to steal packages off your doorstep.
- Keep Family Safe: Monitor your children or elderly parents when you’re away from home.
- Home Insurance Discounts: Some providers offer lower premiums for alarmed, monitored homes.
Factors to Consider
All security cameras have essential functions in common – motion detection, night vision, video storage, etc. But beyond those basics, consider these factors when choosing cameras:
- Video Resolution – Higher resolution equals sharper video and images. But it requires more storage space and bandwidth.
- Field of View – Choose wide-angle lenses to monitor larger areas. Narrower views provide more focused monitoring.
- Outdoor vs. Indoor – Cameras must withstand weather and usually have longer-range night vision.
- Wired vs. Wireless – Wireless cameras are easier to install but may have weaker connectivity.
- Local Storage vs Cloud – Local storage keeps footage on a hard drive in your home. Cloud storage saves videos on remote servers.
- Intelligent Features – Smart cameras add functions like facial recognition, person detection, and activity zones.
- Subscription Plans – Some companies require monthly/annual fees for features like cloud storage and monitoring.
Keeping these factors in mind, let’s look at 10 of the best security cameras in Canada right now:
1. Arlo Pro 4
The Arlo Pro 4 is one of the most advanced wireless security camera systems available today. Key features include:
- 2K video with HDR for crystal clear footage day and night
- 160° diagonal field of view
- Integrated spotlight and color night vision
- Wire-free setup
- Weather-resistant for indoor/outdoor use
- 2-way audio and intelligent siren
- Onboard AI detects people, vehicles, animals, and packages
You can self-monitor footage or pay for Arlo Smart cloud plans. Storage options range from 30 days to 1 year. While pricey, the Arlo Pro 4 bundles advanced intelligent features into a durable, modular system.
2. Ring Stick Up Cam Battery
The ring is synonymous with modern home security. The Ring Stick Up Cam Battery is one of their top-rated wireless cameras. Standout features consist of:
- 1080p video
- 130° diagonal field of view
- Motion detection up to 30 feet away
- Alerts sent to your phone
- Night vision mode
- Two-way talk with built-in microphone and speaker
- Runs on rechargeable battery or wired power
Affordable and easy to install, the Ring Stick Up Cam monitors doors, hallways, and other interior spaces. You can self-monitor video for free or pay for Ring cloud storage.
3. TP-Link Tapo C200
The Tapo C200 from TP-Link is an affordable yet full-featured indoor camera with smarts. Key features include:
- 1080p video with night vision
- 2-way audio through built-in mic and speaker
- Motion and sound detection
- Local MicroSD card storage
- Cloud storage options available
- Works with Alexa and Google Assistant
- Person detection and activity zones
While the design is essential, the Tapo C200 punches above its weight class with robust detection features and flexible storage options.
4. Eufy Indoor Cam 2K Pan & Tilt
Eufy’s Indoor Cam 2K offers premium features at a budget-friendly price point. Top features:
- 2K video resolution
- Pan 320° and tilt 96° coverage
- Motion tracking follows subjects as they move
- Local storage with 16GB MicroSD card
- Two-way audio communication
- Night vision mode
- Compatible with Google Assistant and Alexa
- No monthly fees required
The pan/tilt functionality helps this indoor camera cover all corners of a room. And with no monthly fees, it delivers great value for the price.
5. Canary Flex
Canary Flex lives up to its name with a remarkably flexible wireless camera. Key features include:
- 1080p HD video with night vision
- 147° wide-angle field of view
- Motion detection up to 20 feet away
- Wireless or wired power sources
- Weather resistant for indoor/outdoor use
- Works with Alexa and Google Assistant
- Canary Membership adds cloud storage, monitoring, and other features.
The Canary Flex works just about anywhere. Position it above a doorway for a traditional view, or wrap it around a tree or pole for a unique monitoring angle. It’s one of the most versatile home security cameras available.
6. Logitech Circle View
Logitech blends sleek aesthetics with HomeKit compatibility in the Circle View camera. Key features:
- 1080p video resolution
- 180° field of view
- Infrared night vision with a 10-15 feet range
- Two-way talk
- Person detection
- 14 days of free cloud storage
- Works exclusively with Apple HomeKit
- Indoor and weatherproof outdoor options
With robust features and stylish design, the Logitech Circle View camera integrates beautifully into Apple’s intelligent home ecosystems. Keep in mind it only works with iOS and HomeKit, though.
7. Wyze Cam v3
Wyze Cams consistently offer incredible value. The Wyze Cam v3 steps up the features while still being incredibly affordable:
- 1080p video with night vision
- Wider field of view at 125° diagonally
- Color night vision mode
- Local storage on MicroSD card
- Motion and sound detection
- Alexa and Google Assistant support
- Optional Complete Motion Capture service for cloud storage
For less than $30, the Wyze Cam v3 packs a ton of functionality. The lack of 4K video keeps it out of the top 5, but it’s nearly impossible to beat this camera for budget home monitoring.
8. Nest Cam Indoor
Nest Cams provides deep integration with the broader Google/Nest smart ecosystem. The standard indoor Nest Cam offers:
- 1080p video display
- 130° diagonal field of view
- Night vision
- Person/motion/sound detection
- Familiar faces detection
- Activity zones
- Two-way audio
- Works with Google Assistant
- Subscription Nest Aware adds cloud video history, storage, and more
Great for Nest loyalists, the Nest Cam ties into other compatible devices seamlessly. But the need for a Nest Aware subscription bumps up the long-term costs of ownership.
9. Arlo Ultra
The Arlo Ultra bumps up the resolution and wireless range for expansive coverage. Key features include:
- 4K HDR video quality
- 180° diagonal field of view
- Wireless range up to 300 feet
- Spotlight and color night vision
- Built-in siren, 2-way audio
- Weather-resistant
- Cloud storage requires an Arlo Smart subscription
The 4K resolution and extended wireless range let this camera cover more ground. The Arlo Ultra excels at monitoring large outdoor areas and properties.
10. Ezviz C1C Wi-Fi Camera
Ezviz focuses on affordability without sacrificing core features. The C1C model delivers:
- 1080p live streaming
- 130° wide viewing angle
- Color night vision
- Motion tracking
- Local storage on MicroSD card
- Works with Google Assistant and Alexa
- Weatherproof for indoor/outdoor
- Two-way audio
While 1080p resolution is lower than pricier options, the Ezviz C1C includes a robust toolkit for the money. Flexible power and storage options allow you to fine-tune the setup to your needs.
Conclusion
Installing security cameras is one of the best ways to protect homes in Canada and deter crime. Strategically placed cameras provide 24/7 monitoring of entry points, yards, and interior living spaces. Besides real-time surveillance, recorded footage gives you evidence to provide to authorities if needed.
We looked at the latest indoor, outdoor, and doorbell cameras on the market based on video quality, smart features, field of view, and overall value. Our top overall picks are the Arlo Pro 4, Ring Stick Up Cam, and TP-Link Tapo C200, thanks to their combination of robust features and competitive pricing.
Ready to pick the security cameras that best match your needs and budget? Check current prices and read verified homeowner reviews to hone in on suitable models. And consider professionally installing your cameras to get optimal positioning and performance. With the right home surveillance system, you’ll gain peace of mind knowing your property is protected day and night.
FAQs About Security Cameras for Homes in Canada
Should I choose wired or wireless security cameras?
It depends on where you’re positioning the cameras and how much hassle you want with installation. Wired cameras take more time to install but have continuous power. Battery or solar-powered wireless cameras offer flexible placement but may lose connection or run out of charge.
Do I need to pay for cloud storage subscriptions?
Not necessarily. Some cameras include local storage through MicroSD cards or hard drives attached to the camera. But cloud storage makes accessing and sharing footage easier. Some subscriptions add monitoring and alerts. Evaluate costs to see if the benefits warrant monthly fees.
Are cameras suitable for outdoor and cold weather use?
Specialized outdoor cameras feature weatherproofing and winterization, allowing them to withstand rain, snow, temperature extremes, and UV rays. Ensure any outdoor camera is rated for complete weather resistance.
Should I tell visitors and guests that my home is monitored?
Posting signs stating your home is under video surveillance can further deter criminal activity. It also reminds guests and service providers like landscapers that their actions are being recorded.
Do security cameras require particular installation?
DIY installation is possible for wireless cameras with guides online. But professional installation ensures your cameras are optimally positioned for monitoring and performance. Techs will also integrate cameras with your other smart home gadgets and networks.
