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Smart indoor Wi-Fi security cameras are extremely handy. They can help keep an eye on pets, and children or look out for general home security.

Most indoor Wi-Fi cameras include two-way audio. They can also notify you instantly when they detect motion and loud noises, like a baby monitor.

My best recommendation for an indoor Wi-Fi security camera is the Reolink E1 Pro PT Security Camera. It has 355° panning and 50° tilting and supports 1440p HD resolution.

Alternatively, the Nest 2MP Bullet Security Camera is my runner-up. It can cover a 135° diagonal FOV and has impressive infrared performance. It also has the option to set up face recognition.

Top 10 Indoor Wi-Fi Security Cameras (2023)

Top Pick
E1 Pro
Awards
  • Highest rated camera listed with DC Power option
  • Highest rated camera listed with 5GHz WiFi data
  • Highest rated camera listed with Integrated Microphone
Data Type
IP
Resolution
4MP: 2560x1440
Power Options
DC Power
Night Vision Type
Infrared
Storage Options
microSDNVRCloud

The Reolink E1 Pro is our top contender. This indoor camera is very reasonably-priced and includes a 4MP camera that records footage at 1440p resolution. On top of that, this camera can easily perform 355° panning and 50° tilting.

This Reolink E1 Pro has a simple infrared night vision system built-in. It’s got a 40ft (12m) IR range and uses an 8-piece IR LED array. In terms of audio-based features, the camera can seamlessly carry out two-way communication and includes a siren system that can be controlled manually or automated using a custom voice audio.

There are three storage options, and all three of them serve different purposes. The Micro SD card slot only stores short clips (recorded during motion triggers), and the cloud storage is only useful for storing a limited number of essential clips. For continuous recording, you have to set up this camera with a compatible NVR.

Also, the Reolink E1 Pro only supports motion detection (with configurable motion zones/sensitivities). There are no human, vehicle, or everyday object detection features.

Lastly, the camera supports dual-band Wi-Fi and works with Google Assistant when it is not configured with an NVR. Unfortunately, Amazon Alexa compatibility is not yet released.

Pros
  • Night Vision Support: Infrared
  • Integrated Microphone
  • Smart Integrations: Google Assistant, Chromecast, Google Nest Hub
  • Data Transmission: 2.4GHz WiFi, 5GHz WiFi
  • Integrated Siren / Alarm
  • Motorized Pan Feature
Cons
  • No optical zoom
  • No smart / AI motion detection
Runner Up
Nest Cam Indoor
Awards
  • Only camera listed with Face Detection
  • Highest rated camera listed with AC Power option
  • Highest rated camera listed with Animal Detection
Data Type
IP
Resolution
2MP: 1080P / HD: 1920x1080
Power Options
AC Power
Night Vision Type
Infrared
IP Rating
Not Weather Proof / Resistant
Storage Options
Cloud

The runner-up is Google’s own Nest Cam (the indoor, wired variant). This wireless camera records footage at 1080p resolution using a 2MP camera. It may not seem like much, but with a diagonal 135° FOV in an indoor setting, it is a quite decent alternative.

For night vision, the camera uses 2 850nm IR LEDs, and these have a maximum range of 15ft (4.6m). It isn’t a long-range sensor, but this is more than adequate for covering a conventional bedroom or living room.

Audio-based features include a microphone and speaker setup for recording audio and performing two-way communication. Unfortunately, there is no integrated siren or interface for connecting one.

Another unfortunate situation is the storage department. There is only a cloud storage feature, and you need to shell out a monthly fee of at least $6/month for 30 days of event history. For continuous recording, you need to purchase the Nest Aware Plus, which is $12/month and it includes 24/7 recording of the past ten days.

Nonetheless, most users will shell out for the cloud subscription services anyway since the most essential feature of the Nest cam: intelligent motion detection, is locked behind a Nest Aware subscription. These include configurable motion zones and human, vehicle, and animal detection.

Also, there is a face recognition feature exclusive to Nest Aware Plus subscribers.

Pros
  • Night Vision Support: Infrared
  • Storage Options: Cloud
  • Integrated Microphone
  • Data Transmission: 2.4GHz WiFi, 5GHz WiFi
  • Smart Integrations: Alexa, Google Assistant, Google Nest Hub
  • Power Options: AC Power
Cons
  • No motorized tilt functionality
  • Does not have an integrated siren
  • No optical zoom
  • Cannot automatically pan
  • Relatively Low Resolution: 2MP: 1080P / HD: 1920x1080
  • Low IP Rating: Not Weather Proof / Resistant
Solo IndoorCam P24 T8410X
Awards
  • Only camera listed with Sound Detection
  • Only camera listed with Apple HomeKit support
  • Highest rated camera listed with NAS support
Data Type
IP
Resolution
2K / 3MP: 2304x1296
Power Options
DC Power
Night Vision Type
Infrared
IP Rating
Not Weather Proof / Resistant
Storage Options
microSDNASCloud

The Eufy Solo IndoorCam P24 is another viable alternative. This indoor wireless camera features a 3MP camera that can record footage in 2K resolution (2304x1296). On top of that, it has a motorized lens that allows it to carry out 360° panning and 96° tilting.

For night vision, the camera has an eight-piece IR LED array with a maximum range of 32.8ft. The storage options include MicroSD, NAS, and cloud storage. The MicroSD slot on this camera supports a maximum capacity of 128GB, and this is enough space to store 12 days’ worth of continuous footage (in 2K resolution).

Also, Eufy has introduced cloud storage solutions with plans starting at $2.99/camera/month. (Stores footage from the last 30 days.)

The camera has motion sensors that can work with the camera for motion-activated recording. It has sound sensors that will always notify the user whenever there is too much noise in the background (dog barks, baby cries, etc.).

The camera can detect people and animals, and it can also send you instant notifications when these objects are detected. On top of that, you can track them using the camera’s PT functions or set up custom motion zones.

The camera supports smart integration with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit. However, please note that the footage resolution will be limited to 1080p when configured with Apple’s HomeKit.

Pros
  • Data Transmission: 2.4GHz WiFi
  • Storage Options: microSD, NAS, Cloud
  • Smart Motion Detection Features: Person Detection, Animal Detection, Sound Detection
  • Motorized Tilt Feature
  • Integrated Siren / Alarm
  • Night Vision Support: Infrared
Cons
  • No optical zoom
  • Low IP Rating: Not Weather Proof / Resistant
  • Relatively Low Resolution: 2K / 3MP: 2304x1296
Essential Indoor
Awards
  • Only camera listed with SmartThings support
  • Highest rated camera listed with Wireless Hub support
  • Highest rated camera listed with Object Detection
Data Type
IP
Resolution
2MP: 1080P / HD: 1920x1080
Power Options
AC Power
Night Vision Type
Infrared
IP Rating
Not Weather Proof / Resistant
Storage Options
Wireless HubCloud

The Arlo Essential Indoor Security Camera is another reasonably-priced alternative with almost the same features as our top pick. This camera can record 1080p video, and it has a 130° diagonal FOV.

For night vision, the camera includes a single 850nm IR LED, which has a decent range enough to cover most bedrooms and living rooms. On top of that, there is a privacy shield feature that uses a built-in lens cap to cover the camera whenever necessary. (Enabled/disabled via the Arlo mobile app.)

Audio features include two-way communication and a built-in siren that can be configured automatically or manually. The camera system does not support local storage options, and you will have to subscribe to Arlo Secure (cloud subscription service.) Thankfully, you get a three-month trial with your first purchase.

The Arlo Secure subscription service is an essential feature since the camera has no local storage options. With Arlo Secure’s most basic plan (which starts at $2.99/cam/month), you get 30 days of recent storage. On top of that, the camera has access to motion detection features such as person, vehicle, animal, and everyday object detection (along with customizable motion/activity zones).

The compatible smart integration platforms include Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, IFTTT, and Samsung Smartthings.

Pros
  • Storage Options: Wireless Hub, Cloud
  • Data Transmission: 2.4GHz WiFi
  • Integrated Siren / Alarm
  • Integrated Microphone
  • Power Options: AC Power
  • Night Vision Support: Infrared
Cons
  • Low IP Rating: Not Weather Proof / Resistant
  • No motorized tilt functionality
  • Cannot automatically pan
  • Relatively Low Resolution: 2MP: 1080P / HD: 1920x1080
  • No optical zoom
Data Type
IP
Resolution
2MP: 1080P / HD: 1920x1080
Power Options
AC Power
Night Vision Type
Infrared
IP Rating
Weather-resistant
Storage Options
Cloud

The Ring Indoor Cam is a budget-friendly and easy-to-set-up camera that would be ideal for a living room or foyer. This camera has a 2MP sensor that records clear and crisp footage in 1080p HD.

The camera also captures decent night vision footage thanks to well-designed infrared sensors. On top of that, it has a microphone and speaker configuration that allows for two-way communication.

Unfortunately, this camera lacks a lot of versatility in the storage department, and the only way to review footage (or export them) is via the app and its cloud storage system.

Therefore, you will have to purchase a Ring Protect plan for basic storage functionality. These plans start at $3/camera/month and include 30 days of recent storage, instant motion detection notifications, and two-way communication facilities. Also, you get a 30-day free trial on your first purchase.

The camera can only perform motion detection and has settings to customize the motion zones in its field of view. The supported smart integration platforms include Amazon’s own, Alexa, and Echo Show.

Pros
  • Integrated Siren / Alarm
  • Power Options: AC Power
  • Integrated Microphone
  • Storage Options: Cloud
  • Data Transmission: 2.4GHz WiFi
  • Night Vision Support: Infrared
Cons
  • No optical zoom
  • No motorized tilt functionality
  • Relatively Low Resolution: 2MP: 1080P / HD: 1920x1080
  • Low IP Rating: Weather-resistant
  • Cannot automatically pan
W461ASC-E
Awards
  • Only camera listed with Apple TV support
Data Type
IP
Resolution
2K: 2560x1920
Power Options
DC Power
Night Vision Type
Infrared
Storage Options
microSDWireless Hub

If you’ve had it with brands trying to limit your local storage options, you’ll love the Lorex 2K Indoor Wi-Fi camera. This device already comes with a 16GB MicroSD card, with the option to swap it out for another one with a maximum 256GB capacity.

On top of that, it works with the Lorex smart security center (wireless hub) to store footage to that device as well. (That is if you’re already using one.)

There are no monthly fees or other maintenance costs, and you still get access to the Lorex app, which sends you instant notifications and allows you to pull up a live feed or even review older footage. On top of that, you get person detection, and configurable motion zones, completely free of charge. The catch: you have to store all your footage locally and maintain a constant Wi-Fi connection with the camera.

The cameras can record footage at 2K resolution (2560x1920), and the fixed focus lens has a 125° diagonal FOV. Also, there is a 32ft range infrared night vision system and a two-way communication system.

The supported smart integration platforms include Alexa, Google Assistant, Chromecast, Fire TV, and Apple TV.

Pros
  • Storage Options: microSD, Wireless Hub
  • Data Transmission: 2.4GHz WiFi
  • Smart Motion Detection Features: Person Detection
  • Integrated Microphone
  • Power Options: DC Power
  • Integrated Siren / Alarm
Cons
  • No optical zoom
  • No motorized tilt functionality
  • Cannot automatically pan
Wyze Cam v3
Awards
  • Only camera listed with Full Color (via Low Light Sensor / Tech)
  • Only camera listed with IP65
Data Type
IP
Resolution
2MP: 1080P / HD: 1920x1080
Power Options
AC Power
Night Vision Type
InfraredFull Color (via Low Light Sensor / Tech)
IP Rating
IP65
Storage Options
microSDCloud

One of the rarest features found in most indoor cameras is full-color night vision. Thankfully, the Wyze Cam V3 is such a device that utilizes advanced starlight sensors to recreate 1080p color footage even under extremely low-light conditions. On top of that, it’s got an IP65 rating; hence, you can make the best of the starlight sensors if you choose to install this camera outdoors.

Another advantage of the Wyze Cam V3 is the local storage options. You can install a 32GB MicroSD card slot and store up to 28 days of continuous footage. (With the option to upgrade to a maximum capacity of 128GB.)

However, one issue with this camera is the online subscription service. This time around, they’ve limited the smart detection capabilities of this camera for free users. So to enable person, vehicle, animal, object, and customizable motion detection (along with CO₂ and smoke sensor sound detection), you would have to subscribe to the Wyze Cam Plus package. (Billed annually at $1.25/cam/month)

We highly recommend subscribing to this service because you get all the aforementioned intelligent detection features along with continuous recording and retrieval via the app. (Also, the camera won’t have a five-minute delay in-between events anymore.)

Pros
  • IP Rating: IP65
  • Integrated Siren / Alarm
  • Smart Integrations: Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT
  • Smart Motion Detection Features: Person Detection, Vehicle Detection, Object Detection, Animal Detection
  • Data Transmission: 2.4GHz WiFi
  • Integrated Microphone
Cons
  • No motorized tilt functionality
  • No optical zoom
  • Cannot automatically pan
  • Relatively Low Resolution: 2MP: 1080P / HD: 1920x1080
Blink Indoor
Awards
  • Only camera listed with Battery option
Data Type
IP
Resolution
2MP: 1080P / HD: 1920x1080
Power Options
Battery
Night Vision Type
Infrared
IP Rating
Not Weather Proof / Resistant
Storage Options
Wireless HubCloud

The Blink Indoor Security Camera is one of the best wire-free devices on our list. This device uses two AA consumer batteries for power, and it can last up to two years on a single charge.

The camera module is a 2MP camera that records footage in decent 1080p. The fixed-focus lens has a 110° diagonal FOV. Infrared night vision is available, and it’s got enough range to cover most living rooms, bedrooms, and entryways. On top of that, the camera can easily perform two-way communication.

There are two storage options available. You can get a Blink Sync Module 2 (wireless hub) and retrieve footage via a USB drive. Apart from that, there is also Blink’s cloud storage feature, which allows you to store and review 60 days of recent footage. However, you will have to purchase a cloud subscription which starts at $3/cam/month.

Luckily, you get a 30-day free trial before you begin your subscription.

The camera has a motion detection feature and includes the ability to customize motion zones. Unfortunately, there are no specific object detection algorithms built-in to the camera system. However, you get remote viewing and motion alerts for free, regardless of a subscription plan.

Nonetheless, we highly suggest going for a Blink subscription because the camera won’t record motion-activated footage without it.

Lastly, the camera supports Amazon Alexa and Echo Show.

Pros
  • Power Options: Battery
  • Integrated Microphone
  • Night Vision Support: Infrared
  • Storage Options: Wireless Hub, Cloud
  • Smart Integrations: Alexa, Echo Show
  • Data Transmission: 2.4GHz WiFi
Cons
  • Relatively Low Resolution: 2MP: 1080P / HD: 1920x1080
  • Low IP Rating: Not Weather Proof / Resistant
  • No smart / AI motion detection
  • No optical zoom
  • No motorized tilt functionality
  • Does not have an integrated siren
G3 Instant
Awards
  • Highest rated camera listed with
Data Type
IP
Resolution
2MP: 1080P / HD: 1920x1080
Power Options
AC Power
Night Vision Type
Infrared
IP Rating
Not Weather Proof / Resistant
Storage Options
NVR

Ubiquity, even though they don’t play well with other brands and eco-systems, has powerful, versatile, and affordable security cameras and the Ubiquity G3 Instant is one such device.

This indoor camera records footage at clear 1080p resolution using a 2MP camera. It can stitch footage at 30 frames per second, and the wide-angle lens has a 133° diagonal FOV. Other basic features include infrared and two-way communication facilities.

Unfortunately, your storage options are limited to an NVR, specifically a compatible Ubiquity NVR. Other than that, there are no MicroSD card slots or cloud storage solutions. So as long as you stick with the Uni-Fi ecosystem, along with all the necessary Ubiquity hardware, you will be okay.

Nonetheless, there are some positives. This camera supports dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. On top of that, it is a very inexpensive indoor security camera, and it's true functionality only comes out when you pair it with a feature-packed NVR.

Pros
  • Data Transmission: 2.4GHz WiFi, 5GHz WiFi
  • Night Vision Support: Infrared
  • Power Options: AC Power
  • Integrated Microphone
  • Storage Options: NVR
Cons
  • No optical zoom
  • Relatively Low Resolution: 2MP: 1080P / HD: 1920x1080
  • Cannot automatically pan
  • Does not have an integrated siren
  • No motorized tilt functionality
  • No smart home integrations
IP4M-1041W
Awards
  • Only camera listed with FTP support
Data Type
IP
Resolution
4MP: 2560x1440
Power Options
DC Power
Night Vision Type
Infrared
IP Rating
Not Weather Proof / Resistant
Storage Options
microSDNVRNASFTPCloud

Our final option is the Amcrest 4MP indoor security camera. Even though it’s at the bottom of our list, this camera has an impressive resume.

For starters, the camera system is a 4MP sensor that can record 30fps footage at 2688x1520 (2K-ish) resolution. The camera has a 90° diagonal FOV, and if that seems a little too low, don’t worry because this camera has complete 360° panning and 90° tilting functionality.

The night vision system is also very robust. It includes a 12 IR LED configuration that can reach a maximum range of 32ft, more than enough for most indoor environments. On top of that, the camera includes a microphone and speaker system for noise-free two-way communication.

The camera supports FTP, NAS, Amcrest NVRs, and 256GB maximum MicroSD cards. There is also a cloud storage feature with plans starting at $6/month. Thankfully, you won't have to purchase this subscription to receive instant notifications or perform remote live views.

There are no intelligent motion detection features. However, the camera supports customizable motion zones with configurable sensitivities/thresholds. The camera is not compatible with smart home assistants. Instead, it makes up for it by including support for a variety of interoperability software/protocols such as QNAP, Blue Iris, RTSP, ONVIF, and CGI.

Pros
  • Motorized Tilt Feature
  • Motorized Pan Feature
  • Integrated Microphone
  • Power Options: DC Power
  • Data Transmission: 2.4GHz WiFi
  • Storage Options: microSD, NVR, NAS, FTP, Cloud
Cons
  • No optical zoom
  • No smart home integrations
  • Low IP Rating: Not Weather Proof / Resistant
  • No smart / AI motion detection
  • Does not have an integrated siren

What is an Indoor Wi-Fi Security Camera?

An indoor security camera is usually a compact device with a small camera. These devices usually record footage in 1080p and include infrared for night vision.

Most indoor cameras are powered using a wall outlet, but a select few include rechargeable batteries as an optional feature. Because of their smaller form factor and consumer-friendly design, these devices transfer data wirelessly through the home’s Wi-Fi network.

Through Wi-Fi, the camera can connect to the internet. It allows the homeowner to control the camera or review footage via a computer or smartphone. (Smartphones are the preferred option.) Most brands offer cloud storage features (with a monthly fee) while supporting local storage via MicroSD.

Indoor Wi-Fi security cameras are best used in living rooms, bedrooms, and entryways to monitor people and pets going in and out. On top of that, the advanced intelligent object detection algorithms can notify the user almost instantly whenever it detects motion or objects (humans or animals) within the camera’s field of view.

Also, most indoor wireless cameras include a two-way communication feature. It allows the user to maintain contact with whoever is physically near the camera

Decision Factors when Choosing an Indoor Wi-Fi Security Cameras

Camera

Most indoor cameras don’t need to record footage at ultra-high resolution since there’s not a lot of distance to cover. However, when looking for an indoor Wi-Fi security camera, we recommend getting one that has at least a 1080p resolution (2MP) camera with a wide-angle FOV (more than 100° diagonal) or PT functions.

Night Vision

Fortunately, most cameras include at least a very rudimentary system for night vision. In the case of indoor cameras, you won’t have to worry too much about IR range, but make sure it has decent infrared capabilities. Most indoor cameras won’t include full-color night vision since there won’t be a lot of ambient light inside rooms.

Audio Features

Two-way communication is a must-have for any indoor Wi-Fi security camera. Fortunately, all of the devices we’ve included on our list support two-way communication. For added security, you can go for a device that includes a built-in siren as well, although devices that include both of these features can be expensive or hard to come by. 

Storage

Local MicroSD storage options are always a plus. However, be wary of brands that include only cloud storage. Online storage is always good to have since you won’t have to worry about maintaining MicroSD cards or a bulky NVR but make sure you are ready to pay a monthly subscription fee for each camera in your home.

Object Detection

All modern wireless security cameras (and the ones in our list) include at least a basic form of motion detection. (Either using motion sensors or image-based motion.) However, it takes a special kind of camera system to be able to carry out person, animal, and sound detection, and these tend to be a bit more expensive. So consider your requirements for an indoor camera and go for these features accordingly. For example: if you need to monitor a pet or a baby a high-end camera with sound and animal detection is always a good choice.

Common Questions related to Indoor Wi-Fi Security Cameras

Do indoor cameras need an NVR?

Fortunately, most indoor cameras are designed to store footage locally via MicroSD cards. Therefore, you won’t need to purchase an additional NVR for storage options. However, a rare selection of indoor security cameras need an NVR to function, so make sure you check for this spec before purchasing a camera. Except for the Ubiquity G3 Instant, all of the other indoor cameras on our list do not need an NVR to function.

Can Indoor cameras recognize faces?

Unfortunately, most cameras cannot detect or recognize faces. This is due to limitations on processing power or the cloud service. Out of these, only the Google Nest indoor, wired camera can perform facial recognition, and it needs the premium subscription service to effortlessly carry it out. For a list dedicated to face detection/recognition cameras, check out this list

Can Indoor cameras record continuously?

It depends on the cameras and their storage solutions. However, as long as the camera is not solely reliant on a battery, and includes wired connectivity options, and local storage solutions (MicroSD card or NVR), there’s a much better chance that the camera will support continuous recording. 

Are there any privacy features in indoor cameras?

On most devices, you can disable the camera through the App. Apart from that, some devices may support scheduled recording or censoring custom zones in the frame. Unfortunately, not all cameras support these features, so make sure to check the app features beforehand.

What happens to the indoor camera when the Wi-Fi is slow/down? 

When Wi-Fi is slow, the app would usually remind you. However, when the Wi-Fi is completely down, most cameras will keep on recording and storing footage on the local MicroSD card. They will upload important clips to the cloud whenever the connection comes back. If Wi-Fi signal strength is an issue, we recommend switching over to 2.4GHz or setting up additional Wi-Fi extenders/repeaters around your home.

Conclusion

Indoor Wi-Fi security cameras are packed with essential features. These include two-way communication, infrared night vision, and motion detection. These cameras are slowly replacing baby monitors, intercom systems, and tripwire sensors.

My main recommendation for an indoor Wi-Fi security camera is the Reolink E1 Pro PT Security Camera. It’s great for beginners and supports 5GHz Wi-Fi.

The runner-up is the Nest 2MP Bullet Security Camera. It’s equally impressive as it can record 1080p footage. Also, it supports face and animal detection for accurate alerts.

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