DIY Home Security System

Nest Cam Outdoor
Security Camera

PROS

• Excellent video quality
• Good night vision
• Access live video streaming (free)
• Motion and loud sound triggers
• Two-way audio; speak with visitor
• Push (cell) and Email (web) alerts
• Integration: Amazon Alexa, IFTTT, "works with Nest" devices.
• Stores still photos of events for 3 hours (free).

 
CONS

• Pricey
• Nest Aware subscription plan is required to view any stored video footage; in the Cloud. Currently $10 a month or $100 a year for the privilege.
• Requires wired outdoor power/installation.

Ring Floodlight Camera

Motion-activated floodlight with a camera attached!
See a great video about this product here. 

PROS

• Two-way talk
• Flash the lights, sound siren alarm, or zoom-in remotely via app.
• Push (cell) and Email (web) alerts
• Motion-activated; wide-angle motion sensors
• Access live video streaming (free).
• Compatible with IFTTT, Amazon Alexa.

CONS

• $3 per month or $30 per year subscription fee to access recorded video footage.
• Requires wired outdoor power and installation.

Netgear Arlo Pro
Security Camera

PROS

• Integrates with SmartThings Hub, IFTTT.
• Sharp picture/good night vision
• Wireless; easy to install
• Rechargeable batteries last 6 months on a charge.
• Weatherproof
• Two-way talk
• Live video feed
• Motion and sound triggers
• Push (cell) and Email (web) alerts
• Loud siren
• Free basic service includes 7 days of cloud video storage, for up to five cameras. [Only outside camera we recommend that doesn't require a monthly fee.]
  

CONS

• Pricey
• Requires a hub (included) which you attach to your router.

D-Link HD Wi-Fi
Indoor Camera

PROS

• Great price
• Compact, discreet
• Good camera resolution
• IR night vision
• Motion and sound triggers
• Remote viewing and access with free phone app and also on web.
• Push (cell) and Email (web) alerts
• Integrates with IFTTT, Google Assistant and Google Chromecast.
• No recurring fees
• On-board video storage with microSDXC card slot (128 GB capacity)

CONS

• Micro SD card not included; they cost about $20 if you shop around.
• No speaker (you can hear and record audio, but you can't talk back.)

Hidden Nanny Cam- Spy Camera

• Wi-Fi enabled with free app
• 20 feet invisible night vision
• Remote viewing on smartphone
• 720P HD video record
• 128GB micro SD card support

SkyBell HD Wi-Fi Video Doorbell

PROS

• Easy to install using existing doorbell wires.
• Sharp 1080p video; 5x zoom
• Color night video
• Live streaming; on demand access and clip recording
• You can snap a still photo from your phone.
• Push notifications; mobile app
• 2-way audio
• Motion detection 
• Free cloud storage for video clips (exclusive in it's class)
• Integrates with IFTTT, Google, Nest and Alexa.

CONS

• No web app
• Not compatible with some smartphones (read before you buy).
• Do not buy a SkyBell either used, in an unsealed box or from Alarm.com. That company requires a monthly fee.

Ring Video Doorbell 2

PROS

• 1080p sharp video
• Night vision
• Rechargeable battery (or wired power)
• Easy to install
• Push notifications; mobile app; email (web) notification
• Motion detection with triggered recording
• Live streaming
• 2-way audio
• Integrates with Alexa, Wink and IFTTT

CONS

• Bulky, large; not a sleek look
• Requires subscription to view recorded video (stored in cloud).
• $3 per month or $30/year

August Smart Lock Pro
+ Connect

PROS

• Easy to install.
• Door sensor
• Supports Bluetooth, Wi-fi, Apple HomeKit and Z-wave.
• Works with Alexa, Google, Siri and IFTTT; Wink 2 or Samsung SmartThings Hub.
• Lock and unlock your door, control keyless access, activity tracker, all from your phone.
• Keep your existing deadbolt; use your existing keys at any time.
• Locks automatically behind you, and unlocks as you approach.
• This is the Cadillac of Smart Door Locks.

CONS

• Expensive

Ultraloq UL3 BT Smart Lock

• 5-in-1 Keyless Entry Smart Lock: Fingerprint or Code or Smartphone or Knock/Shake Phone to Open or use Key
• Advanced Fingerprint Identification
• View Logs via Ultraloq App
• Reversible Handle, Weatherproof
• Long Battery Life, Low Battery Alarm

NEXX Smart Garage Door Opener

• Open & close your garage door by tapping Nexx mobile app OR
• Voice commands via Alexa or Google Assistant
• Multi-user access can be set up
• World-class security encryption
• Easy DIY installation
• Compatible with almost all garage door openers

First Alert Waterproof
Fire Chest Safe

• Digital safe protects valuables from fire, water, and theft.
• Waterproof seal protects even if submerged.
• Programmable digital lock with 2 emergency override keys.
• Big enough to hold standard letter-size papers flat.

FEENM Upgraded Door Stop Alarm

• Adjustable sensitivity Levels
• Very loud shrill alarm to scare off would-be intruder
• You can use it as common door stop by turning off alarm.
• No installation required. 

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