Battery operated security camera with memory card no wifi

Ring

SecureScore™: 9.2/10

Ring has cornered the market in terms of user-friendliness, offering a selection of flexible battery-powered cameras like Ring Spotlight and Ring Stick Up. Pop in the rechargeable battery pack and install the cameras wherever you’d like.

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Lorex

SecureScore™: 9.0/10

Lorex has a solid wire-free camera system that combines the camera’s base with a 3-cell battery pack. The Lorex Wire-Free Camera represents just a fraction of the brand’s impressive selection of cameras, from 4K Ultra HD cameras to multichannel systems.

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Arlo

SecureScore™: 8.0/10

Arlo’s suite of cameras is tailor-made for people who don’t want the hassle of a traditional, hardwired security system. Along with high-resolution video, the cameras include batteries that last up to six months on one charge.

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Battery-powered cameras take being wireless to a whole new level. While Wi-Fi cameras still need to be plugged into a power outlet, battery-powered cameras are completely wire-free. This allows for clutter-free and flexible installation, and because they don’t need to be placed near an outlet, battery-powered cameras can watch over areas that wired and even wire-free cameras can’t normally cover.

Just a few years ago, only a handful of battery-powered cameras existed. Now, they are everywhere. Almost every security camera manufacturer has their own take on battery-powered cameras, which led us to ask: Which battery-powered cameras are the best?

We’ve tested them, and now we are ready to share with you the cream of the crop of this new breed of security cameras.

• Ring - Best Battery Powered Security Cameras Overall
• Lorex - Best Outdoor Battery Powered Cameras
• Arlo - Best DIY Battery Powered Security Cameras
• Blink - Easiest to Use Battery Powered Cameras
• Reolink - Most Affordable Battery Powered Security Cameras

• 1 Ring - Best Battery Powered Security Cameras Overall

  

  Customer Service

  8.0

  Value

  9.3

  Equipment

  9.9

  Features & Technology

  9.3

  Ease Of Use

  9.5

  SecureScore™

  9.2

  How We Review

  Overview:

  Ring, the Amazon-owned fan favorite largely credited with redefining home security with their Ring Video Doorbell, has since grown into a full-service home security company. Some of their best cameras come in battery-powered versions.

  These battery-powered security cameras are equipped with all the smart and reliable features you know and love about the rest of Ring’s cameras – smooth 1080p HD resolution, infrared night vision, two-way talk, and motion-activated alerts.

  With the Ring Stick Up Cam, for example, you have the option of using battery or plug-in power. So if you’re someone who likes to move your camera from one space to another to cover different targets, the battery setup is incredibly convenient.

  Alternatively, the Ring Spotlight Cam combines the power of Ring’s network and features with powerful motion-activated lighting. This is a camera with two really big things going for it: a rechargeable battery pack, and a spotlight that doesn’t need to be hardwired into any existing lighting or wiring in your home to work.

  Pros:

  • Easy DIY Installation
  • No Wires (for battery model)
  • 1080p HD Video
  • Designed for Indoors or Outdoors
  • Highly Customizable Settings
  • User-Friendly Mobile App
  • Live Video Streaming
  • Two-Way Talk
  • Motion-Activated Notifications
  • Infrared Night Vision
  • Works Best With Alexa

  Cons:

  • Occasional Missed Motion
  • No Advanced Video Resolutions (2K or 4K)
  • Equipment Costs Can Add Up
  • Professional Monitoring Only Available in U.S. and Canada
  • History of Privacy Issues/Hacking

  Summary:

  This unique camera checks off plenty of boxes in the flexibility category. Here are some more points to remember about Ring’s battery-powered cameras:

  Ring makes it easy to customize all of their cameras’ features to your needs. While the cameras aren’t perfect, installing and setting up Ring devices is basically a breeze, making them a hot pick for DIYers.

  With prices starting at $60 for Ring Indoor to $249 for Ring Floodlight, the brand continues to offer something for everyone in terms of price points.

  To learn more about my full experience with Ring’s battery-powered cameras, check out my in-depth Ring Camera review.

• 2 Lorex - Best Outdoor Battery Powered Cameras

  

  Customer Service

  8.4

  Value

  8.5

  Equipment

  9.5

  Features & Technology

  9.7

  Ease Of Use

  8.8

  SecureScore™

  9.0

  How We Review

  Overview:

  Lorex cameras have been a strong performer for years, and one of the reasons I rely on their cameras so consistently is their longevity in the business. They’ve been around for about 30 years, becoming a mainstay with a massive selection of tough equipment and professional-grade security cameras that are grouped essentially into four categories: digital IP cameras, MPX/wireless cameras, wire-free cameras, and Wi-Fi cameras.

  Lorex’s wire-free cameras and systems pack the same common features I’ve seen in other Lorex cams. You’ll get 1080p resolution, two-way talk, and night vision, as well as newly added active deterrence and person-detection features. Those latter features performed quite nicely in a couple of Lorex cameras I reviewed not long ago. And although those cameras weren’t wire-free, they didn’t give me too many installation hassles.

  Pros:

  • HD Video Quality (4K in Some Models)
  • Long-Range Color Night Vision
  • Lots of Equipment and Bundling Options
  • Smooth App Experience
  • No Contracts or Monthly Fees
  • Long History in the Home Security Industry

  Cons:

  • Lorex Website Is Hard to Navigate
  • Occasional False Notifications
  • No Professional Monitoring Options
  • Limited Customer Service Hours

  Summary:

  If you’re someone who likes to customize your technology to suit your lifestyle, Lorex is probably going to suit you. These cameras offer a lot of customization, which can be great for folks who like to tinker with their gadgets and tailor them exactly to their needs.

  Another great thing about Lorex is that you are never going to run out of options. Its line of wire-free cameras has resolutions ranging from 1080p to 4K, comes in indoor and outdoor models, and even has pan-and-tilt versions. A lot of the battery-powered cameras also offer smart features like person detection and motion-activated lighting.

  As far as hardware quality goes, Lorex is leading the pack.

• 3 Arlo - Best DIY Battery Powered Security Cameras

  

  Customer Service

  7.2

  Value

  7.4

  Equipment

  8.7

  Features & Technology

  8.5

  Ease Of Use

  8.0

  SecureScore™

  8.0

  How We Review

  Overview:

  Arlo was first to the market in terms of battery-powered cameras, and it continues to innovate its line of products. Its most powerful battery-powered camera right now, the Arlo Ultra 2, packs a 4K resolution, an ultra-wide 180-degree viewing angle, AI-driven smart detection, and built-in siren and lights to act as deterrents.

  Arlo offers some of the most flexible battery-powered camera systems on the market. The brand’s full suite of security products rests on two key selling points: complete home security and flexible, easy setup. Each time I pick up new Arlo cameras to review, I tend to come to the same conclusion: They do both of those things really, really well.

  Pros:

  • Well-Built Equipment
  • Super HD 2K Video
  • Color Night Vision
  • No Contracts Required
  • DIY Installation (100 percent Wireless)
  • 160-degree Field of Vision
  • Noise Cancellation
  • Third-Party Integration

  Cons:

  • Recording Delay Issues
  • Limited Home Automation
  • Lacking Advanced Security Features
  • Considerable Up-front Cost
  • Occasionally Buggy
  • SmartHub Requires Ethernet Connection

  Summary:

  In keeping with Arlo’s theme of simplicity, I love how it’s super easy to pop out the battery chamber in the camera and ease the included rechargeable battery right in, then pop everything right back into place. No screwdrivers, no sweat, and no fighting with inanimate objects.

  And in addition to wire-free installation, thanks to rechargeable batteries, Arlo cameras hold up really well against the outdoors, which is incredibly important for security cameras these days.

  Note, however, that premium quality products come with a premium price tag as well. A starter kit for the Arlo Ultra 2, which includes a SmartHub and two cameras, costs a whopping $600. There are cheaper cameras from Arlo, of course, with the Essentials line starting at just $129.99 per camera.

• 4 Blink - Easiest to Use Battery Powered Cameras

  

  Customer Service

  7.5

  Value

  9.0

  Equipment

  7.5

  Features & Technology

  6.5

  Ease Of Use

  7.5

  SecureScore™

  7.6

  How We Review

  Overview:

  For affordable home security without unsightly power cords, Blink is a nice, low-maintenance option. The sleek, cube-shaped camera system has two main draws: fast Wi-Fi connectivity and extended-life batteries for up to two years of continuous use.

  Clearly this is an Amazon-owned brand worth getting to know, which I noted when I tested the Blink camera system recently. Here are a few more things to know about Blink:

  Pros:

  • Fully Wireless Cameras
  • Easy DIY Installation
  • Lightweight, Minimalist Design
  • 1080p HD Video Resolution
  • Two-Way Talk
  • Infrared Night Vision
  • Low-Cost Cloud Storage
  • Local Video Storage
  • Smart Home Integration

  Cons:

  • Lacks Advanced Motion Features
  • App Setup Can Be Glitchy
  • Relies on Wi-Fi Connection
  • No Continuous Recording
  • Requires Separate Hub to Connect

  Summary:

  The Blink camera system allows you to access, monitor, and control Blink cams through one small sync module, communicating smoothly with your smartphone so you can view what’s happening in live HD video. Just don’t expect too much in the way of accessories or advanced features here. But what stands out about Blink cams is that they use two AA lithium batteries that will last up to two years – an obvious nod to convenience and affordability.

  Blink prices start at $35 for Blink Mini; Blink Indoor and Outdoor cost $79.99 and $99.99, respectively.

• 5 Reolink - Most Affordable Battery Powered Security Cameras

  

  Customer Service

  6.2

  Value

  7.3

  Equipment

  7.2

  Features & Technology

  6.3

  Ease Of Use

  6.2

  SecureScore™

  6.6

  How We Review

  Overview:

  The clean, round lines and glossy finish of a Reolink camera might have you thinking these are super-expensive devices. In fact, Reolink, another mainstay in the industry, offers a pretty stacked package for affordable prices – and that holds true for their large selection of wire-free cameras, too. The Reolink Argus 3, as shown above, costs $110, which is very reasonable.

  Pros:

  • Wireless Outdoor Cameras
  • Some Cameras Work with Reolink Solar Panel
  • Flexible, Easy Installation
  • Full HD Resolution
  • Two-Way Talk
  • Color Night Vision
  • Built-In Siren
  • Low-Cost Cloud Storage
  • Local Storage Option
  • Smart Home Integration

  Cons:

  • Some Cameras Have Basic Features
  • App Setup Can Be Glitchy
  • Relies on Wi-Fi Connection
  • No Continuous Recording in Battery-Powered Models
  • Solar Panel Not Included

  Summary:

  In addition to handling the essentials of home security with ease, I believe Reolink’s best asset is its ability to acclimate with almost any outdoor environment, thanks to wire-free installation, 1080p HD resolution, and color night vision.

  What you’re not going to find with Reolink, at least with many of their wire-free cams, is a high-end feature set with things like person detection and 24/7 recording. But by and large, you’ll get in Reolink a nice selection of solid cameras for folks who don’t want to spend a lot of time tinkering with their tech.

Benefits of Battery Powered Security Cameras

Up until the last decade or so, installing cameras around the house often involved complicated installations and hardwiring often left to a professional. The big, bulky equipment didn’t do much for aesthetics, either.

These days, installing security cameras has never been easier. Much of this is due to the abundance of wireless and battery-powered camera technology that’s come to dominate the industry. Some cameras, like the aforementioned Reolink camera system, can be used interchangeably with batteries-only or with plug-in power, depending on your preference.

Aside from having the whole setup process controlled by a mobile app, expect a faster installation on the hardware side, too. But don’t get too comfortable once you get the camera online; though they’re meant as “set it and forget it” devices, it’s important to remember to monitor your cameras’ battery life and make sure you’re aware when it’s time to change them out.

Wireless vs. Wire-Free Cameras

Batteries often don’t tell the whole story about how a camera is powered. You might see the terms “wireless,” “wire-free,” and “fully wireless” interchangeably, sometimes indicating that a camera can receive power either through wires or batteries.

Wireless security cameras communicate over the internet, but they sometimes require plugging into a standard AC outlet. Reolink’s Argus Eco, for example, is a wireless camera, but it does need to be plugged in. Reolink Argus 2 and Argus 3 cams, however, are wire-free devices that run on batteries. Make sense?

Reolink Argus 3, Argus 2, and Argus Eco cameras

Of course, with battery power, you can’t avoid having to climb up and change them at some regular interval. This means your camera will be offline for a short time, which obviously isn’t the ideal scenario.

Indeed, it’s not something everyone prefers; there are always pros and cons to both wired and wireless scenarios. For more tips on choosing the best camera for you, pop over to our security camera buying guide.

Final Thoughts on Battery-Powered Security Cameras

Though they’re a favorite of renters, battery-powered cameras aren’t strictly for those on the go or wire-averse; these cams actually have much to offer anyone. It’s no coincidence, after all, that so many of us are reliant on battery-powered phones, speakers, laptops, smart watches, and a whole litany of other battery-powered products to help improve, organize, or manage our lives.

Personally, a camera I don’t have to plug in is a camera that (usually) looks nicer in my home and makes life easier. Simple, right?

But with so few complex installation hassles, I still make a point to recommend battery cameras to folks who are looking for better apartment security, who travel or move frequently, or who just don’t like wires hanging around the house.

Features of Battery Powered Security Camera Systems

Motion Detection

Many battery-powered cameras have basic motion detection, allowing them to record video efficiently. You might also find that some cameras don’t offer the option of continuous recording; rather, battery-powered cameras work best as self-monitored devices, where you can receive alerts, view live footage, and store clips. Cameras that record continuously require more power and aren’t very practical for battery setups.

Two-Way Talk

Two-Way Talk is an active deterrent feature I often emphasize as a must-have feature. Why? Because you can scare off intruders simply by using your own voice. Or in more benign cases, you can use it to communicate with parcel drivers, family members, and even pets. It’s a great feature found in almost every camera, including battery-powered ones.

Night Vision

A camera isn’t worth much if it doesn’t provide at least a decent picture in the dark, as criminals often wait for the cover of night to strike. In battery-powered cameras — since the connection often is less stable than with a wired or PoE device — you might find night vision to be somewhat lacking. While the camera will most likely pick up any pertinent activity, the recordings do tend to yield a grainy picture.

App Control

Most home security brands now come with a companion mobile app that will enable you to access, monitor, and control your battery-powered home security cameras remotely. The best security camera apps are well-organized and intuitive, allowing you to control your cameras and get deeper insights into any suspicious or unusual activity. Features like privacy masking, sensitivity, and motion scheduling help you get the most out of your camera in protection and reliability.

High Resolution

Most battery-powered cams produce video in 1080p HD, the most common benchmark for video dimensions in home security cameras. As long as your Wi-Fi connection remains somewhat stable, you should see footage clearly, with little noise or interference. During busier times, wireless and battery-powered cameras tend to fluctuate, occasionally dipping below HD quality. Higher-resolution cameras, you’ll note, might require more power and drain your battery faster.

Video Recording

There are several types of recording options being either a continuous recording or intermittent recording option. Every brand will have their own selections from which you can choose. And the same goes for how you pay for those services. Any given brand might offer one or both options as part of one of their packages or a limited amount of storage for free. And, a brand might also offer a limited amount of cloud storage for free with larger cloud storage options available for a fee. So if storing your videos is important to you, then look for a brand that has the video recording storage options that best suit your needs.

DIY Installation

For the most part, you’re not going to find anything complicated or time-consuming about installing battery-powered cameras. That’s what DIY is all about, right? They can be placed on a surface for easy indoor monitoring, or mounted on a wall. Or outside, they can be drilled into place using the included brackets, which shouldn’t be too complicated, either. Without wires, it’s also super easy to test out different angles and zero in on specific threats with these cameras.

Wireless Connectivity

A battery-powered security camera with wireless connectivity is one that uses a cellular signal to communicate. The cellular signal works by using radio frequencies just like your mobile phone does. The radio frequencies work with your security alarm's sensors throughout your home, and they communicate with the control panel to notify the monitoring center when activity is detected.

Smart Home Integration

Today’s smart home technology allows many battery-powered cameras to integrate with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and other automation platforms for a truly connected experience. You can use voice commands to get real-time information on who’s at your door, what time your kids’ school bus arrives, and what all that racket is upstairs.