(checked 2026-10-10)
Tom's Guide's best-value camera, with 2.5K video and strong color night vision for under $40. The catches: advanced detection is behind a subscription, Amazon owners report frequent disconnects, and in 2024 a Wyze glitch showed about 13,000 users images from other people's cameras.
Subscription: Optional but feature-gating: free tier saves 12-second clips with cool-downs; Cam Plus $2.99/mo per camera unlocks advanced detection and full-length cloud clips (14-day history); microSD local recording is free
Top complaints
- Frequent disconnections and early failures
Amazon's review summary calls connectivity issues significant, with frequent disconnections, and says some units fail after about 7 months.
- Key features need a subscription
Tom's Guide says advanced subject detection and cloud storage are locked behind Cam Plus ($2.99/mo), and free clips are 12 seconds with a cool-down between recordings. Some Amazon owners call the subscription model a rip-off.
- Choppy video
Tom's Guide says low frame rates and no 5 GHz Wi-Fi support cause occasional stutter or delay in recordings.
Source: Tom's Guide review
What owners love
- Sharp video and great night vision
Tom's Guide praises the 2.5K resolution and vibrant color night vision. Amazon owners like the clear picture and night vision.
- Weatherproof and flexible
It's rated for indoor and outdoor use with a magnetic base that can stand or mount, though it must be plugged in (Tom's Guide).
- Cheapest plan around
Tom's Guide calls Cam Plus at $2.99 per month the least expensive security camera subscription, and free microSD recording supports continuous recording.
- Privacy lapses are a dealbreaker for you
- Your Wi-Fi is spotty or 5 GHz only
- You want full features without paying monthly
- The cheapest sharp camera indoors or on a covered porch
- Color night vision
- microSD recording without a plan
Scores (tap for why)
What experts say
- Tom's Guide: Best value (guide updated 2026-06-05). The cons are choppy visuals at times and free cloud clips limited to 12 seconds.
- Tom's Guide review: 'The new king of budget security cameras': its sharp image and accurate detection work almost flawlessly.
- Wirecutter (NYT): Not yet tested; listed as an upcoming test.