After conducting an extensive investigation, which involved months of testing, we have compiled this comprehensive list of recommended DIY security cameras.
For those interested, the best DIY home security cameras and systems are available for purchase on our CCTV camera online store, featuring free shipping and no hidden fees.
Additionally, you have the option to repurpose your old smartphones into functional security cameras!
Best DIY Security Cameras & Systems for Your Home
Discover the top 3 DIY security cameras and systems highly acclaimed by leading tech editors and satisfied customers. This selection includes PoE and wireless options, catering to both outdoor and indoor needs.
These DIY home security cameras and kits operate independently, eliminating the need for monthly subscription fees (bonus: enjoy FREE shipping). Moreover, their straightforward installation process ensures ease of setup, making them user-friendly to the extent that even your grandmother can install them without any difficulty!
Top Choice 1: Zosi C306 – DIY Wireless Battery or Solar Powered Security Camera
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For a firsthand look at the clarity and performance of the Zosi C306 DIY residential WiFi security camera, you can watch the video below, shared by a satisfied customer.
Top Choice 2: Zosi C518 – DIY Wireless Indoor Home Security Camera
The Zosi C518 takes the spotlight as an excellent choice for a DIY smart home security camera, particularly notable for its dual-band WiFi support (2.4 GHz & 5 GHz). This feature sets it apart from competitors that often only support 2.4 GHz WiFi. The flexibility to switch between the two WiFi options based on network conditions is a valuable capability. Additionally, the adjustable antennas allow you to optimize their orientation for the strongest WiFi signal.
The full-duplex two-way audio functionality adds another layer of convenience, allowing you to communicate with your pet or deter intruders effectively. For more in-depth insights, you can explore the details in this DIY security camera video review.
Top Choice 3: C225-4K-PN Outdoor & Indoor DIY PoE Security Camera System
The C225-4K-PN stands out as our third top pick, offering a comprehensive DIY PoE security camera system for both outdoor and indoor use. The kit includes 1 NVR (Network Video Recorder) and 4 dome-type cameras, with the option to expand by adding another 4 DIY bullet/dome cameras or other types of DIY security cameras later.
One remarkable feature of this DIY security system is its impressive 4K (2160p) high definition, delivering exceptional clarity that will leave you thoroughly impressed. The system’s capabilities allow for the identification of license plates and other intricate details even from a considerable distance.
Where to Buy Your Home DIY Security Cameras & Systems
The ideal destination to purchase the aforementioned DIY security cameras and kits is the official security camera online store, catering to US, UK, Germany, France, and others in Europe. This ensures access to top-notch after-sales services and responsive tech support. Buying directly from the official online store eliminates concerns about price hikes from wholesalers or dealers, guaranteeing fair pricing.
While some may consider DIY fake security cameras for deterring burglars, genuine security cameras are essential for true home and business protection. Fortunately, the price of DIY security cameras is not necessarily high, and there are affordable yet high-quality options among the best picks.
When selecting the best DIY security cameras, it’s crucial to consider the following three important features:
- Compliance with your country’s standards.
- Ability to withstand extreme weather conditions for outdoor DIY security cameras.
- No monthly fees, ensuring standalone functionality with local storage and no extra charges for cloud storage.
Opting for off-the-shelf DIY security cameras and systems is the most convenient choice, as it eliminates the need for complex setup or configuration to get the cameras operational.
For those with a penchant for DIY projects, consider the following steps to create a DIY security camera using webcams, Raspberry Pi, Arduino, and other servers.
You can even repurpose old smartphones to build a surveillance camera and transform indoor security cameras into outdoor types with a DIY security camera housing.
DIY Security Camera Installation Manual & Instructions
Discover the fundamental steps for creating a DIY security camera with Raspberry Pi, enabling you to repurpose items like webcams, old smartphones, iPods, and more into functional security cameras.
1. How to Create a Wired & Wireless Security Camera Using Raspberry Pi or Arduino
When embarking on the DIY journey to construct an IP security camera with Raspberry Pi or Arduino, you’ll need some essential components. For example, if you choose Raspberry Pi, the following devices are necessary:
- Raspberry Pi module
- An IP camera
- Power supply
- WiFi adapter
Once you have these key items ready, proceed to the detailed installation steps for your DIY security camera:
- Install Raspbian on your Pi.
- Establish a connection to your Raspberry Pi via SSH.
- Utilize the command “sudo reboot” to restart your Pi and confirm that the WiFi is operational.
- Retrieve the username and IP address of your IP camera.
- Select a player to serve as the Raspberry Pi camera viewer (MPlayer is a suitable choice).
- Initiate access to your camera through the player.
2. How to DIY Your Security Camera & System Using Webcam
If you’re inclined to create a security camera using your laptop webcam, the initial step involves downloading the requisite software. For Windows PC, iSpy or Yawcam can be chosen, while SecuritySpy is suitable for Mac.
Here are the fundamental steps to transform your laptop webcam into a security camera:
- Position the webcam in the area you wish to monitor.
- Acquire a USB cable of sufficient length to connect the webcam to your computer.
- Install the chosen software on your Windows PC or Mac. As an example, we’ll outline the detailed steps using iSpy.
- Integrate a local webcam into the iSpy software and assign a name to the camera. Additionally, activate the Camera Active box to initiate your webcam.
- Within the Edit Camera menu, you’ll find six options. Customize the settings according to your specific requirements.
- Return to your home screen and activate your camera. You are now ready to access live streaming!
3. How to DIY a Wireless Smartphone Security Camera
Transforming your iPhone or Android smartphone into a DIY wireless security camera is a straightforward process that requires only your smartphones and suitable software.
Guidelines for DIY an iPhone-Controlled Home Security Camera
Embark on the journey of DIYing your IP security camera or system using your iPhone, iPod, iPad, Mac, or other iOS devices by following these detailed steps.
The following DIY security camera instructions utilize the Manything app as an illustrative example:
- Download the Manything app on both your old iPhone and the new iOS device (such as your new iPhone, iPad, or Mac).
- Deactivate the Auto Lock function on your old iPhone.
- Register on Manything using your email address or Facebook account.
- Opt for Camera mode on your old iPhone and Viewer mode for your new device.
- Position the old iPhone in the desired monitoring location.
- Activate the camera on the old iPhone by pressing the red button. Instantaneously, you can access live streaming from the new iOS device. Alternatively, sign in to Manything on your computer to view the live feed.
How to DIY a Security Camera with Android Smartphones
The fundamental steps for DIYing an Android smartphone into a remote security camera closely mirror those for iOS devices. Explore the steps below to construct a DIY wireless security camera using your Android mobile phone.
The subsequent DIY security camera installation guide uses the Alfred DIY security camera app as a reference:
- Download the Alfred DIY security camera app on both your old and new Android smartphones.
- Launch the app on both phones. Opt for Camera mode on the old Android smartphone and Viewer mode on the other one.
- Sign in with the same Gmail account on both mobile phones to ensure seamless synchronization.
- The mobile phone selected for Camera mode will initiate monitoring, allowing you to obtain a live view on the other smartphone.
Key Considerations for DIY Home Security Cameras & Kits Using Smartphones
- Ensure the camera phone remains charged for continuous 24/7 surveillance.
- Opt for a fisheye lens for the camera phone to achieve a broader viewing angle.
- Verify that both your camera phone and viewing devices are connected to the internet.
Follow the step-by-step guide provided to DIY your home security cameras and kits. The applications recommended in the DIY security camera mounting instructions are free to download and utilize. However, for enhanced functionality and increased video storage capacity, a monthly fee may be required, which can contribute significantly to your long-term budget.
Self-monitored and off-the-shelf DIY security cameras and systems present an attractive option, as they offer a hassle-free plug-and-play feature for effortless setup. Another advantage of these user-friendly DIY security cameras and kits is the inclusion of advanced functions through customized software, eliminating the need for subscription fees.
4. DIY Outdoor Security Camera Housing or Enclosure: Transform Indoor IP Cameras into Outdoor CCTV IP Cameras
If you have an indoor security camera that you wish to deploy outdoors, you can craft a weatherproof security camera housing using the following materials.
Main Materials Required for DIY Outdoor Security Camera Housing:
- PVC pipe
- PVC coupling
- PVC end cap
- Clear plexiglass
- Zip-tie
- Plastic adjustable speaker mount
- Silicone caulk
- PVC glue
Follow the steps below to create a DIY security camera cover.
- Cut the pipe into two parts.
- Insert the camera into the coupling.
- Utilize one part of the pipe and the plexiglass to shield the camera lens, sealing the plexiglass to the pipe with silicone caulk.
- Attach the end cap and the pipe using PVC glue.
- Deploy the end cap and the other part of the pipe to safeguard the back of the camera.
- Secure the plastic adjustable speaker mount to the camera with a zip-tie, then mount the camera to the desired location, such as a wall or eave.
While you can create an outdoor security camera with the above steps, it may be more convenient to purchase ready-made DIY outdoor wireless or wired security cameras.
The pricing for home DIY outdoor security camera and NVR/DVR systems is quite favorable, allowing you to acquire a high-quality DIY exterior security camera for less than 100 bucks.
Installing Your DIY Security Cameras
There are three popular types of DIY security cameras: wire-free battery-powered security cameras, traditional WiFi security cameras, and PoE security cameras.
- DIY battery-powered security cameras: Installation of this type of DIY security camera is straightforward. Insert the batteries into the camera, then follow the provided DIY home security camera instructions and user manual to set up the device. For enhanced weatherproofing, consider adding a housing or enclosure, such as a protective skin, to the battery security cameras.
- DIY traditional WiFi security cameras: Power these cameras using a cable and ensure they are within the WiFi signal range. This allows you to access the DIY security camera with your PC, Mac, mobile phones, etc. For improved connectivity between your wireless DIY security cameras and your router, consider using a WiFi extender.
- DIY PoE IP surveillance security cameras: Simply connect the PoE security cameras to your home router using a PoE Cat 5 or 6 wire to complete the installation process. If mounting the cameras outdoors, you may need to drill holes to run wires. Refer to a step-by-step DIY home security camera wiring guide for assistance, available here.
For detailed guidance on installing DIY security cameras, you can refer to this post.
WiFi & PoE DIY IP security camera connection diagram:
Share Your Insights on DIY Security Cameras
The DIY home surveillance and monitoring market is projected to experience a compound annual growth rate of over 20% in the next five years.
In contrast to traditional ADT CCTV security cameras, DIY home security cameras and systems are readily available off-the-shelf and exceptionally easy to install.
Key advantages of DIY wired and WiFi security cameras and kits include:
- No monthly subscription fees: Unlike ADT security camera companies that often require contractual agreements with monthly fees, DIY security camera systems offer a cost-effective solution. The same budget can provide a high-quality DIY security camera system without ongoing subscription costs.
- Self-monitored with privacy control: While ADT security cameras involve company staff monitoring your home, DIY security cameras empower you to be in control. Receive motion detection alerts for any unusual activity without concerns about privacy invasion.
- Portable and flexible for lifetime use: Once you invest in DIY security cameras, they become your property. Enjoy the flexibility of taking them with you when relocating to a new house. In contrast, ADT security cameras are typically reclaimed after the contract period.