Please note, if you click and buy through links on our site, we may earn a small affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Learn More

Security cameras with Pan, Tilt and Zoom functions help cover wide open spaces using a single device. These functions offer greater freedom to either automatically (via tracking) or manually (via remote control) monitor a location. While wired PTZ cameras are typically seen in commercial settings, wireless versions are gaining popularity for home security.

My top pick as the best outdoor PT & PTZ wireless security camera is the Reolink 4K Dual-Band Wi-Fi 6 PTZ Security Camera. It's feature-packed with some impressive PTZ specs, it has basic 360-degree panning and 90-degree tilting, 5x optical zoom and also supports features such as PTZ tracking and automated presets.

My top pick as the best indoor PT & PTZ wireless security camera is the Lorex 4MP PT Security Camera. It's the famous Ring Stick Up Cam, it's very compact, and easy to set up.

The 10 Best Wireless PT/PTZ Security Cameras (Indoor & Outdoor)

Outdoor PT & PTZ Wireless Security Cameras

Let's get started with outdoor-ready Wireless PTZ cameras. These are usually rated at IP66 and built with completely weather-resistant enclosures. You can install these cameras indoors, but we recommend sticking to the indoor-only cameras for those situations (as they are less expensive since they don't have to compensate for higher IP ratings).

Top Pick
RLC-823S1W
Awards
  • Only camera in this group with 4K / Ultra HD / 8MP: 3840x2160
  • Only camera in this group with Animal Detection
  • Only camera in this group with Fire TV support
Data Type
IP
Resolution
4K / Ultra HD / 8MP: 3840x2160
IP Rating
IP66
Optical Zoom Magnification
5x

The Reolink 4K Dual-Band Wi-Fi 6 PTZ Security Camera is a top-tier choice for modern home security. It's packed with advanced features and designed for seamless integration with your smart home setup.

Key highlights include smart motion detection capabilities that can distinguish between people, vehicles, and animals, ensuring you get the most relevant alerts. The motorized pan feature allows you to adjust the camera's view remotely for comprehensive coverage of your property.

The Reolink 4K Dual-Band Wi-Fi 6 PTZ Security Camera works with popular smart home systems like Alexa, Google Assistant, Chromecast, Echo Show, Fire TV, and Google Nest Hub, making it easy to integrate into your existing ecosystem. An integrated siren and alarm provide an added layer of security, helping to deter intruders.

For data transmission, it supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz WiFi, offering flexibility and reliability in your network setup. Plus, the built-in microphone ensures you can capture audio along with video, giving you a complete picture of any situation.

Pros
  • Storage Options: microSD
  • Power Options: DC Power
  • Motorized Optical Zoom Lens
  • Motorized Pan Feature
  • Data Transmission: 2.4GHz WiFi, 5GHz WiFi
  • High Resolution: 4K / Ultra HD / 8MP: 3840x2160
Cons
Data Type
IP
Resolution
4MP: 2560x1440
IP Rating
IP66

Next up is the Lorex F461AQD-E. This PT camera is IP-based and requires DC power. The camera supports wireless data transmission. However, for 24/7 monitoring, you will have to connect the device to a Lorex Fusion-based NVR. (via an ethernet cable, sold separately.)

At any instance, the camera can cover 90-degrees horizontally and 45-degrees vertically. Along with that, you can also pan the camera 360 degrees horizontal and tilt it 90 degrees vertically.

The device also has an IP66 rating and can survive temperatures ranging from -22F to 140F.

Pros
  • Motorized Tilt Feature
  • Storage Options: microSD, NVR
  • Smart Integrations: Alexa, Google Assistant
  • IP Rating: IP66
  • Power Options: DC Power
  • Data Transmission: 2.4GHz WiFi
Cons
  • No optical zoom
E1 Outdoor
Awards
  • Only camera in this group with PoE option
  • Only camera in this group with PoE data
Data Type
IP
Resolution
5MP: 2560x1920
IP Rating
Weather-resistant
Optical Zoom Magnification
3x

The Reolink E1 Outdoor PTZ Security Camera is a budget-friendly device that runs on DC power and transmits data through either 2.4GHz or 5GHz Wi-Fi. Despite its low price tag, the device incorporates infrared and full-color night vision.

There are several storage options: MicroSD, NVR support, FTP, and even an optional cloud storage service. However, for 24/7 recording, you will need to connect to a Reolink-compatible NVR. Also, you will need to maintain a Wi-Fi connection if you want to utilize additional features such as push notifications, two-way communication, and remote viewing.

Pros
  • Storage Options: microSD, NVR, FTP, Cloud
  • Motorized Optical Zoom Lens
  • Motorized Tilt Feature
  • Smart Motion Detection Features: Person Detection, Vehicle Detection
  • Integrated Microphone
  • Integrated Siren / Alarm
Cons
  • Low IP Rating: Weather-resistant
IP2M-866W
Awards
  • Only camera in this group with NAS support
  • Highest rated camera in this group with Full Color (via Low Light Sensor / Tech)
  • Highest rated camera in this group with Cloud support
Data Type
IP
Resolution
2MP: 1080P / HD: 1920x1080
IP Rating
IP66
Optical Zoom Magnification
3x

The Amcrest IP2M-866W PTZ Security Camera is a moderately-priced PTZ camera with 355-degree panning, 90-degree tilting, and 3x optical zoom. The camera also has a 16x digital zoom feature, but the footage is not as readable as optical zooming.

The device has an impressive IK08 impact rating with the usual outdoor-friendly IP66. The camera is also more resilient against fluctuating temperatures as it can operate between -22F and 140F.

This camera creates up to three different streams, all at 30fps and processed through True WDR. However, the 2MP camera can only record at 1080p resolution.

Pros
  • Motorized Pan Feature
  • Motorized Optical Zoom Lens
  • Power Options: DC Power
  • Night Vision Support: Infrared, Full Color (via Low Light Sensor / Tech)
  • Storage Options: microSD, NVR, NAS, FTP, Cloud
  • Motorized Tilt Feature
Cons
  • No smart / AI motion detection
  • Does not have an integrated siren
  • No integrated microphone
  • Relatively Low Resolution: 2MP: 1080P / HD: 1920x1080
  • No smart home integrations
Data Type
IP
Resolution
2MP: 1080P / HD: 1920x1080
IP Rating
IP65

The LaView LV-PWR12W PT Security Camera is an IP-based camera that requires DC power and 2.4GHz for successful operation. However, the PT functions are somewhat limited as there is no optical zoom. (Only 360-degree panning and 110-degree tilting.)

The camera has an IP65 protection rating with an operating temperature range of -4F to 122F. The storage options are also quite limited, so you can only rely on the MicroSD card and the cloud storage feature for retrieving old footage.

The LaView Connect mobile and web apps offer greater functionality. A few of its features include push notifications, configurable motion zones, and smart integration with Alexa and Google assistant.

Pros
  • Motorized Pan Feature
  • Motorized Tilt Feature
  • Storage Options: microSD, Cloud
  • Power Options: DC Power
  • IP Rating: IP65
  • Night Vision Support: Infrared
Cons
  • No optical zoom
  • Does not have an integrated siren
  • No smart / AI motion detection
  • Relatively Low Resolution: 2MP: 1080P / HD: 1920x1080

Indoor PT & PTZ Wireless Security Cameras

Even though indoor Wireless PTZ cameras do not necessarily need higher IP/IK ratings or wider operating temperatures, the brands that offer them justify the prices by sneaking in extra intelligent features and smart integration. Nevertheless, these intelligent features are well worth the investment. (As you will realize from reading about the cameras on our list below.)

Top Pick
Stick Up Cam Plug-In
Awards
  • Only camera in this group with Full Color (via Low Light Sensor / Tech)
  • Only camera in this group with Weather-resistant
  • Only camera in this group with Echo Show support
Power Options
AC Power
Resolution
2MP: 1080P / HD: 1920x1080
Storage Options
Cloud

The best indoor-only PT camera is the famous Ring Stick Up Cam. Unlike many other PTZ cameras, this device is very compact (3.82"x 2.36"x 2.36") and easy to set up. (You only need to connect it to a wall outlet.)

The camera connects wirelessly via 2.4GHz Wi-Fi and requires a Ring protect plan (subscription service) for the device to perform advanced features such as remote viewing, two-way communication, push notifications, and customizable motion recording.

For PT functionality, you need to purchase the Pan-Tilt Plugin. (alongside the Ring Stick-Up Cam.) The plugin allows the camera to perform 360-degree panning and 90-degree tilting.

Pros
  • Motorized Tilt Feature
  • Power Options: AC Power
  • Motorized Pan Feature
  • Integrated Microphone
  • Storage Options: Cloud
  • Smart Motion Detection Features: Person Detection
Cons
  • No optical zoom
  • Relatively Low Resolution: 2MP: 1080P / HD: 1920x1080
  • Low IP Rating: Weather-resistant
Runner Up
E1 Pro
Awards
  • Only camera in this group with 5GHz WiFi data
  • Only camera in this group with Google Nest Hub support
  • Highest rated camera in this group with DC Power option
Power Options
DC Power
Resolution
4MP: 2560x1440
Storage Options
microSDNVRCloud

The Reolink E1 Pro PT Security Camera is a mid-range budget-friendly indoor PT camera that supports dual-band Wi-Fi and DC power.

The device can perform 355-degree panning and 50-degree tilting. Unfortunately, the device doesn't support optical zoom, so you're best to use this in smaller rooms.

There are several options for storage: NVR, MicroSD, and optional cloud storage. The camera can record up to 128GB of footage inside a MicroSD card and even supports RTSP and P2P interoperability protocols. Therefore, you don't need to rely on the Reolink app for everything.

Also, the camera supports smart integration with Google Assistant, Chromecast, and Google Nest Hub.

Pros
  • Motorized Tilt Feature
  • Smart Integrations: Google Assistant, Chromecast, Google Nest Hub
  • Integrated Microphone
  • Data Transmission: 2.4GHz WiFi, 5GHz WiFi
  • Integrated Siren / Alarm
  • Power Options: DC Power
Cons
  • No smart / AI motion detection
  • No optical zoom
Solo IndoorCam P24 T8410X
Awards
  • Only camera in this group with Apple HomeKit support
  • Highest rated camera in this group with NAS support
  • Highest rated camera in this group with Sound Detection
Power Options
DC Power
Resolution
2K / 3MP: 2304x1296
Storage Options
microSDNASCloud

The Eufy Solo IndoorCam P24 PT Security is an affordable mid-range camera that you can use indoors to track motion or excessive noise. The device uses a 3MP camera that records footage at 2304x1296 resolution.

This camera can detect and track humans and animals. Along with that, an integrated microphone to record audio and listen for sounds.

To interface the camera with the Eufy app, you need a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi connection. The app will allow you to receive push notifications, pull up a live feed, or configure the settings. (Which involves setting up custom motion zones and motion sensitivity.)

The device is also very versatile with smart integration as it supports Alexa, Google Assistant, and even ApplehomeKit.

Pros
  • Motorized Tilt Feature
  • Smart Integrations: Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit
  • Integrated Siren / Alarm
  • Smart Motion Detection Features: Person Detection, Animal Detection, Sound Detection
  • Night Vision Support: Infrared
  • Storage Options: microSD, NAS, Cloud
Cons
  • Low IP Rating: Not Weather Proof / Resistant
  • Relatively Low Resolution: 2K / 3MP: 2304x1296
  • No optical zoom
IP4M-1041W
Awards
  • Only camera in this group with FTP support
Power Options
DC Power
Resolution
4MP: 2560x1440
Storage Options
microSDNVRNASFTPCloud

The Amcrest IP4M-1041W PT Security Camera is a mid-range IP camera with a 4MP resolution (2560x1440) CMOS image sensor.

The device supports both continuous and motion-activated recording and creates two simultaneous streams for storage and remote viewing. The camera contains a microphone and speaker and allows the user to perform two-way communication.

There are several storage options: MicroSD, NVR, NAS, FTP, and cloud. It is also compatible with multiple interoperability protocols, including QNAP, Blue Iris, ONVIF, RTSP, and CGI. Hence, you won't have any issue using this device within another compatible ecosystem.

Pros
  • Motorized Pan Feature
  • Data Transmission: 2.4GHz WiFi
  • Storage Options: microSD, NVR, NAS, FTP, Cloud
  • Integrated Microphone
  • Night Vision Support: Infrared
  • Motorized Tilt Feature
Cons
  • No smart / AI motion detection
  • No smart home integrations
  • Low IP Rating: Not Weather Proof / Resistant
  • Does not have an integrated siren
  • No optical zoom
Wyze Cam Pan v2
Awards
  • Only camera in this group with Object Detection
Power Options
DC PowerAC Power
Resolution
2MP: 1080P / HD: 1920x1080
Storage Options
microSDCloud

The Wyze Cam Pan v2 PT Security Camera is a solid mid-range PT camera that, unfortunately, relies on a cloud service to unlock its full potential.

The device only supports MicroSD and Cloud storage, and it doesn't support any third-party interoperability protocols. To enjoy full capabilities, you need to have a cloud subscription service. Otherwise, you won't be able to use motion detection features and remote viewing -- to name a few.

The device can perform 360-degree panning and 93-degree tilting. Unfortunately, there is no optical zoom. (Only 8x digital zoom.)

Pros
  • Smart Integrations: Alexa
  • Smart Motion Detection Features: Person Detection, Vehicle Detection, Object Detection, Animal Detection, Sound Detection
  • Integrated Siren / Alarm
  • Night Vision Support: Infrared
  • Power Options: DC Power, AC Power
  • Storage Options: microSD, Cloud
Cons
  • No optical zoom
  • Relatively Low Resolution: 2MP: 1080P / HD: 1920x1080
  • Low IP Rating: Not Weather Proof / Resistant

Decision Factors when Choosing a Wireless PT/PTZ Security Camera

IP rating

The IP rating is more important for outdoor cameras. Most outdoor-ready PTZ cameras have a minimum rating of IP66 which protects the camera from dust and rain. For indoor-only cameras, an IP rating is not necessary, but something along the lines of IPX4 will suffice. 

PTZ functionality

Certain cameras can perform PT functions only. (Without optical zooming.) So make sure to check these specs beforehand. Along with that, you need to check the PTZ values. We recommend going for devices with full 360-degree panning and 90-degree tilting. If you need to track objects from afar, we suggest choosing a lens with larger optical magnification.

Storage and Network

Since these are wireless PT/PTZ cameras, you always need to maintain a Wi-Fi router so the camera can upload/stream footage. Access to the internet is also necessary for the mobile apps to interface with your camera and for the camera to initiate remote viewing and push notifications. Some wireless cameras will limit the storage options to MicroSD and cloud storage, while others will have support for NVR, NAS, and FTP. Cloud storage is easier to manage, but you need to pay a subscription fee. Setting up NVRs/Servers can be difficult but allows for more reliable and faster data transmission and storage.

Night Vision

Almost every PT/PTZ cameras offer infrared night vision for recording the footage in low-light conditions. Some high-end devices also include starlight sensors for full-color night vision (Check out our guide here). Even though these cameras freely offer infrared night vision, you need to check the specs for the maximum IR distance. Most mid-range devices have a maximum of 33ft. Nonetheless, you can go for a device with a higher IR range if you need to cover long distances.

Smart Motion Detection

Having intelligent motion detection features such as human/vehicle detection are important for security. These allow the machines to identify details and make decisions. In the case of PTZ cameras, it allows the user to automate the camera. The camera will monitor an area and notify the user (when there’s unnecessary movement or sound) via push notifications. Most cameras in this list allow for notifications when objects are detected or when it detects motion in a pre-configured region of the footage.

Conclusion

This is our list of the top ten wireless PT/PTZ cameras. We’ve covered indoor and outdoor cameras and listed the significant pros and cons. Also, we talked about which specs to look for when shopping for a PT/PTZ camera.

Whether you want to observe the overall surroundings or zoom in on a specific object or region, PTZ cameras are the go-to solution.

We hope you found our list useful. If so, let us know about your favorite wireless PTZ camera in the comments.

Leave a Comment