Best Seller

The best home security cameras for 2024

By admin April 27, 2024

The best home security cameras for 2024, Choosing a home security camera can be a daunting task since there are a lot of things to consider. Some aren’t susceptible to power outages, thanks to their battery power and local storage, while others need careful placements inside or outside the home.

We recommend starting with something like the Arlo Pro 4 Spotlight Camera, a well-rounded camera that’s packed full of features and boasts performance that ensures you’ll be in the know about what’s happening at your home. Competitors like Ring and Nest may be more recognizable brands, but the Arlo Pro 4 has them beat on features for the price. If you’re not sold on the Arlo product, here’s a look at the best security cameras of 2024.

Arlo Pro 4

The best all-around home security camera

Arlo has always offered the best solution when you need multiple cameras. The Arlo Pro 4 Spotlight Camera shares many of its predecessor’s features and specs, but it doesn’t require a hub to function. It is fully weather-sealed and ready for use indoors or out, wired or wire-free, with a 160-degree viewing angle. The batteries can easily be swapped and charged separately, so wire-free cameras won’t suffer any downtime while charging.

Now that the camera has ditched the base station that previous Arlo models needed to function, the setup process is streamlined because you connect it directly to your home’s Wi-Fi router. When it comes to video quality, its 4-megapixel one-third-inch sensor does a fantastic job of capturing sharp details with accurate colors. The performance is made better thanks to HDR and color night vision, which help to uncover details that are often lost in high-contrast scenes and at nighttime when lighting becomes challenging.

The Arlo Pro 4 is also backward compatible with the existing Arlo Pro system, so current users can continue to use their same base station and older cameras alongside the new model. When you consider the excellent camera performance, Wi-Fi direct connectivity, and smart security courtesy of Arlo Smart, its $200 starting cost makes it more attractive than previous iterations. In fact, the starting cost of the previous Arlo Pro 3 was $500, although it did come with two cameras as opposed to one.

The best home security cameras for 2024

Arlo Pro 4

The best all-around home security camera

Google Nest Cam (battery)

The best Google Assistant integration

The Nest line produces reliable products with the latest A.I. features, and its products are always strong picks for those already using Google Home. This latest battery-powered cam is excellent for DIY users who want the freedom to place the cam wherever they want — indoors or outdoors — at any angle. The cam supports 1080p video at 30 frames per second, with night vision and a 130-degree field of view.

The camera offers the ability to zoom in, use two-way audio to talk, or contact emergency services. It’s also smart enough to customize alerts based on whether it thinks it has seen a person, pet, vehicle, or more. It’s also compatible with Google Assistant and devices like the Nest Hub Max, although you won’t find any Alexa support on this Google product. If you are placing the cam outside, you can also attach a weatherproof cable so you won’t have to worry about recharging the battery.

Out of the box and free of charge, the Nest Cam supports up to three hours of event-based battery history storage, after which you will need to clear out space. You could add a Nest Aware subscription if you don’t mind paying a monthly fee, which offers more A.I. features and much more storage for the cam.

Blink Outdoor Cam

Best security camera for Alexa

Pros

• Built-in Alexa compatibility

• Customizable motion zones

• Multi-year battery

Cons

• Local storage requires a separate hub

• No cloud storage without a subscription

The Blink Outdoor camera offers weather-resistant surveillance at HD resolution with infrared night vision. While the model is battery-powered, allowing you to place it nearly anywhere, the battery sports a runtime of up to two years before needing to be recharged (although it’s still a good idea to place it in a more manageable spot like your porch or above a garage).

Blink uses motion detection with customizable motion zones to help reduce errors and includes a two-way audio feature to communicate with the cam. The Alexa compatibility works very well with devices like an Echo Show for an immediate look through the cam and also supports voice commands to arm or disarm the unit whenever you’d like.

The small downside to Blink’s affordable outdoor cam is you can’t save video natively right out of the box. Instead, you’ll either need to sign up for the Blink Subscription plan to get cloud storage options or purchase a separate Blink Sync Module 2 hub to enable local storage.

Wyze Cam v3

The best cheap security camera

From the easy-to-install Wyze Lock to the versatile Wyze Cam Outdoor, the Wyzeportfolio has been growing at a rapid rate. Its latest offering is the incredible Wyze Cam v3, which like its predecessor, astounds with its unbelievably low cost of $36!

Following the same cube-shaped design, this newer model benefits from a sturdier IP65 construction that allows it to work outdoors while resisting harsh elements. It also features night vision, something that has been largely reserved for pricier models. The usefulness of color night vision is astounding since there are details you wouldn’t otherwise be able to detect from your standard black-and-white night vision clips.

Furthermore, the Wyze Cam v3 offers a slew of capture modes that even includes a handy time-lapse mode, various security and privacy controls, and local storage to ensure your footage stays with you. You get all of that in a security camera for well under $50. Quite frankly, it sets the benchmark in what we expect out of entry-level security cameras.

Logitech Circle View Doorbell

Best security cam for HomeKit integration

There’s no denying that there are fewer security cameras on the market that support Apple’s HomeKit. One of the best options is Logitech’s Circle View Doorbell, an excellent choice if you prefer to control everything via the Home app (it also works with Alexa and Google Home). The 1080p cam offers a 160-degree viewing angle, 6-foot night vision, and two-way audio for communication. If you have an iCloud+ subscription, you can also upgrade to facial recognition, custom detection zones, and more.

Since it’s a video doorbell, the cam includes a chime button and is designed to be placed directly by your door for easy porch/street-side viewing. Setup and installation require an iOS device using the Home app, so there’s no need to download any extra apps. The Logitech Circle View Doorbell features an assortment of privacy features to ensure it’s safe to have inside the home. They include things like automatic arming based on your phone’s GPS location, a dedicated button that effectively shuts off the camera, and the ability to swivel the camera completely downwards.

The Circle View Doorbell is a wired doorbell, so you’ll need the proper wired connection to make it work (the doorbell comes with multiple mounting options and a chime kit to help). There are battery-powered doorbell options available, like the Nest Doorbell, but none work with Apple as well as this model.

Eufy SoloCam E40

The best security camera without a subscription

Today’s security cameras have advanced features that are blocked off unless you subscribe to one of their subscription services. One common benefit to some of these services is that they’ll store recorded events in the cloud, so you can access them at any time with your mobile devices. The beauty of the Eufy SoloCam E40 is that you don’t need to pay for a subscription service to reap some of its rewards, like cloud storage.

You’ll find an all-in-one solution with the Eufy SoloCam E40 because not only does it cover all of the basics, like crisp night vision, activity zones, and long-lasting battery life on a single charge, but you don’t have to pay a monthly fee in order to access the footage it records. All of your clips are stored locally and encrypted, so you can access them at any time on your smartphone.

Best of all, it’s a breeze to set up and isn’t too expensive to buy on any budget. For what you pay, it’s sweet knowing there’s no additional cost out of your pockets after buying it.

Blink Wired Floodlight Camera

Best affordable floodlight

Pros

• Affordable

• Powerful floodlights

• Wired connection for constant power

Cons

• Installation can be challenging

• Not as sleek as other cameras

The Blink Wired Floodlight Camera is surprisingly powerful considering its list price of just $99. Featuring two gigantic floodlights that churn out up to 2600 lumens of brightness, it’s more than capable of lighting up your entire yard.

Beyond its great lighting abilities, it benefits from a 1080p camera that’s fully weather resistant. And even if your yard isn’t lit up, it can capture night-time footage in color. Toss in two-way audio, built-in security siren, motion alerts, and customizable motion zones, and it’s easy to see why the Blink Wired Floodlight Camera earned on spot on this list. It also works great with other Alexa devices — so give this one an even closer look if you’re using an Echo hub.

Like most products in this category, some of the Blink Wired Floodlight Camera’s features are locked behind a Blink Subscription Plan. We’d recommend springing for the Blink Basic Plan at $3/month. This gets you live view recording, 60-day video history, photo capture, person detection, and the option to create a local backup with the Sync Module 2.

Blink Mini Pan-Tilt

Best affordable indoor camera

Clocking in at just $35, the Blink Mini is a perfect fit for every budget. This indoor camera captures 1080p footage, can film in the dark using night vision, and even comes with built-in two-way audio. If you want to make it a more versatile device, you can add the Pan-Tilt mount, which lets you remotely swivel the camera to see more of your home (and it still only costs $60). It’s a bit quirky, but it’s hard to find a better indoor camera in this price range.

Arlo Essential Indoor Cam

Best indoor camera for privacy

If you’re worried about privacy, the Arlo Essential Indoor Camera has you covered. Not only does it film in 1080p and come with a robust smartphone app, but you can enable a built-in privacy shutter that ensures nothing is being filmed while you’re home. That alone will put it at the top of the list for many shoppers, and everyone else will benefit from a sleek design, impressive night vision, two-way audio, and highly customizable motion zones.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do home security cameras keep footage?

It depends. The amount and length of storage you get depend on factors like the specific model and whether you have a paid subscription or free plan. Some models, like Google, have a certain amount of free storage that can fill up over time. Others keep captured footage for a period (for example, seven days), then discard it. Subscriptions generally increase the time that footage can be held by a significant amount. However, it’s always a good idea to download a clip from the cloud right away if you will be using it for evidence. Local storage, like an SD card, is generally free to use and permanent, but you have to manage it manually.

Can home security cameras be hacked?

Technically, yes, although it’s uncommon. Customers have reported instances where hackers access their home security camera’s audio feed. To help protect your home security camera from hackers, use a strong non-default password, use two-factor authentication when available, secure your wireless network, and buy your home security camera new from a trusted source. You can learn more about how to protect your home security camera from hackers.

How do home security cameras work?

Most home security cameras stream video feeds using your home internet network. Video is automatically captured for a certain amount of time when motion near the camera is detected, and an alert is sent to the owner’s phone so they can watch and make decisions like whether to contact the authorities. They use an app as an interface where you can do things like view live video feeds, communicate using two-way audio, set up motion zones, and access cloud storage (or the camera’s internal storage or SD card storage). Most offer various kinds of night vision, and some include built-in spotlights.

Do home security cameras deter crime?

Yes. The Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology at the University of North Carolina Charlotte asked burglars about their most effective deterrents. Just over 50% said the presence of outdoor security cameras was an effective deterrent (they’d seek another target if the home had security cameras outside).

Where do I place home security cameras?

The best place to put security cameras is at common entry points — the front door, back door, garage, and lower-level windows. However, you should also consider your area, your property, and any special circumstances that may require a different placement. For instance, if you have a lot of expensive automobiles on your property, you may want to have an outdoor camera covering your vehicles. Or, if you live in an area where there are a lot of second-floor break-ins, you might want security cameras covering the second floor.

Do all home security cameras require a subscription?

No. A subscription is not required for all home security cameras, however, many home security cameras provide more features if you purchase the subscription plan. That could include additional A.I. features, more cloud storage options, or a bundled monitoring plan. Without the subscription plan, your features may be limited.

The cloud storage option in particular depends on a subscription fee. Cloud storage allows you to use your account to access saved video footage from anywhere and download it onto your computer or another device for future use (typically footage is held in the cloud for a certain time from a week to two months, depending on the tier of service). Few smart cams these days offer cloud storage without requiring a subscription fee. Google’s Nest Doorbell is one of the few examples with effective free storage. However, local storage is always an alternative and only requires buying a compatible SD card.

Are home security cameras legal?

In general, yes. Home security cameras are legal to place in your own home. If you’re using home security cameras for a rental property (like an Airbnb home), they are typically legal, provided you are placing them in common areas and the rental guests are aware of their presence.

However, it is not legal to use security cams to capture footage where people have the expectation of privacy. Capturing footage on your porch is fine, because it’s your yard, and the street beyond it is a public area. But capturing footage of something like your neighbor’s backyard is illegal and has led to successful lawsuits. For another example, it is not legal to place a home security camera in a place like an Airbnb rental bathroom. Plus, that’s just creepy anyway.

Do home security cameras record sound?

Some can … but there’s always an option to turn sound recording off, and many models skip it altogether. That’s due to wiretapping laws, which often make it illegal to record sound on surveillance equipment. Even two-way audio communication may have limits depending on specific state rules, although it’s typically legal if the conversation isn’t being actively recorded.

How does Digital Trends test security cameras?

This is by no means an exhaustive list of home security cameras, but these are a few of our favorites that stand out for various unique reasons. Smart home cameras are at their best when they stay out of your way and offer worry-free operation and streamlined apps so that when you do need to interact with them, it doesn’t cause a headache. Good image quality is nice, but it’s not the most important feature when it comes to keeping your home safe or checking in on your kids or pets.

We look for cameras that offer a great combination of features — night vision, battery power, alerts, two-way audio, integration with other services, etc. — in determining the best ones. Obviously, we also take price into account, and there is quite a range of pricing in the current smart home camera market.

Keep Reading

Guide

How to downgrade Windows 11 to Windows 10

By admin February 14, 2024

How to downgrade Windows 11 to Windows 10, Windows 11 might be the latest, but it’s possible that you may not agree that it’s the greatest operating system Microsoft has to offer. And that’s fair. After all, Windows 11 has had its fair share of bugs and issues. And in your own comparison between Windows 10 and Windows 11, you might think you’d rather go back to Windows 10. If that’s the case, we can help you navigate the downgrading process.

Microsoft makes it simple enough to revert directly through the Windows 11 settings page. That’s because, upon upgrade from Windows 10, Windows 11 actually stores a copy of Windows 10 on your PC for 10 days so you can go back to it. Do keep in mind that if you go back to Windows 10 from Windows 11, you might have to reinstall some apps and programs. Anything you saved on your PC while Windows 11 also won’t carry over back to Windows 10, either.

How to downgrade from Windows 11 to Windows 10

The first part of our guide also only applies if it has been 10 days or fewer since you upgraded to Windows 11. If it’s been the past 10 days, then we have some advice for you in the next section of our article. This all might sound scary, but don’t worry. This is what our guide is for.

Step 1: To begin the process of downgrading Windows 11 to Windows 10, you’ll want to head into Windows 11’s settings page. Hit Windows Key and I on your keyboard while in any app, or on your desktop.

Step 2: After that, select Windows Update in the sidebar. This is where you’ll want to be for our next few steps. You might notice that Windows Update is home to everything relating to software, device updates, scheduling, or even joining the Windows Insider program. You don’t need to think about those for now, as the focus will just be on Update history in the next step.

Step 3: Next up, you’ll want to select Update history in the middle of your screen. You might need to scroll down to see it. Once there, scroll down past the list of installed updates to get to Recovery.

Going back to Windows 10 involves using the previously mentioned backup that Windows 11 generated and Recovery will be the home for this. Again, keep in mind that you’ll only see the option to go back if it is within 10 days since you upgraded to Windows 11. After 10 days, the option disappears, and you’ll need to see another option at the end of our guide.

Step 4: Once you select the Go back button, Microsoft will prompt you as to why you’ve decided to go back to Windows 10. You can pick any one of the options on your screen, or type your own answer. Your answer helps in Windows 11’s development process. Once filled out, choose Next at the bottom.

Windows 11 will then ask you if you want to check for updates. These might help fix the problems you’re having (like the performance issues with AMD GPUs,) so try to give it a shot. If that doesn’t work, you can come back following the previous steps, and choose No, thanks.

Microsoft will warn you of the things relating to data that we mentioned at the top of the piece, and you can accept by selecting Next. Also, keep in mind you’ll need to remember your password to sign in to Windows 10, so don’t forget it. Select Next again to confirm.

Step 5: After you select Next a few times, Windows 11 will give you the Go back to Windows 10 button. Choose this, and Windows 11 will do its magic. Your PC will roll back to Windows 10 automatically. Depending on the speed of your PC, it should take less than 5 minutes on average. Your PC will restart about two times, and once it does, you’ll be taken right back to your Windows 10 desktop.

How to downgrade from Windows 11 past 10 days

If it’s been more than 10 days since you upgraded to Windows 11, then the method we mentioned above will not work. To go back to Windows 10, you’ll have to do what’s known as a “clean install” of the Windows operating system. This involves erasing everything off your PC, and starting from fresh, so be sure to back up your files.

The easiest way to do this is to visit Microsoft’s Windows 10 download page on your Windows 11 PC and look for the Create Windows 10 installation media option. Download the tool, open it, and then follow the steps on the screen. You’ll want to make sure you choose the option to Upgrade this PC now. Follow all of the prompts on your screen and Windows 10 will install, putting your PC back in time to when it was new.

How to downgrade Windows 11 to Windows 10

Frequently asked questions

Can Windows 11 be downgraded to Windows 10?

Yes, Windows 11 can be downgraded to Windows 10 and there are two main options for doing so: using the Go Back option in Settings to roll back the upgrade to Windows 11 or performing a clean install of Windows 10. The first option is only for those who upgraded to Windows 11 within the last 10 days. So basically, if you upgraded your Windows PC to Windows 11, you have 10 days to use the Go Back option in Settings to downgrade your PC back to Windows 10. If it’s been more than 10 days, you’ll need to perform a clean install of Windows 10. You can find instructions for either method in the previous sections of this article.

Why is “Go back” no longer available?

If the Go Back option appears to be grayed out in your PC’s Windows Settings, then that means it’s been more than 10 days since your PC was upgraded to Windows 11 and you missed the deadline for using this option to roll back the Windows 11 upgrade.

Can I downgrade from Windows 11 to 10 after 10 days?

Yes, you can downgrade from Windows 11 to Windows 10 after 10 days. But doing so requires a different method: performing a clean install of Windows 10. Be sure to follow the instructions for performing a clean install of Windows 10 described in the previous section.

How to start Windows 11 in Safe Mode

If your Windows 11 PC is having issues, one way to troubleshoot those issues is start your PC in Safe Mode. Safe Mode is essentially a very basic version of Windows 11, without all the bells and whistles and only a restricted set of features, drivers, and files. This mode essentially lets you take a look at your computer and helps you figure out exactly what issue is plaguing your PC.

But booting into Safe Mode on Windows 11 isn’t as easy as just pressing a single button. You’ll need to navigate through a series of menus first and the method for getting there depends on your PC specific situation (Is your PC still working or is it just a blank or black screen?).

Regardless of your current situation, we can show you how to boot Windows 11 into Safe Mode. Let’s take a closer look at Safe Mode and how to get there.

The different safe modes

Before we jump into explaining how you get into Safe Mode, we just want to touch on the different versions of the diagnostic mode. There are three different Safe Mode versions in Windows 11. Each of these can be used for different diagnostic purposes. These are explained for you below.

• Safe Mode: This is the mode that most people will use. This turns off all the extra programs and features in Windows 11 and will only give you access to a basic desktop experience so you can access important files and documents, and tweak with drivers and other things. Note that there is no networking in the mode, so it’s a great way to access files if you think you’re a victim of malware.

• Safe Mode with Networking: This mode is the same as the regular Safe Mode, but enables the network. Despite the name, this isn’t safe to use as it can still allow hackers into your PC through the internet if you’re hoping to diagnose issues or rescue files.

• Safe Mode with Command Prompt: You’ll want to make sure you know how to use the Command Prompt before even entering this version of Safe Mode. This brings up the Command Prompt and lets you type in commands in old-school DOS style to get your way around broken things in the operating system. It’s less dependent on a visual interface.

Getting to Safe Mode from login on Windows 11

If you can still get into Windows 11 and your PC isn’t entirely broken, one of the easiest ways to activate Safe Mode on Windows 11 is from the login screen. You can do this by following our steps below.

Step 1: Hold down the Shift key and click on the power button icon in the lower right corner of the screen.

Step 2: Continue to hold Shift and choose Restart.

Step 3: Release the key afterward. The PC will then restart. If you have Bitlocker encryption turned on, you might have to enter the key.

Step 4: Once you see the Choose an option screen, choose the Troubleshoot option.

Step 5: From there, choose Advanced options, and then choose Startup settings.

Step 6: Pay attention to the prompts on the screen and then select the Restart button.

Once the PC restarts, there will be a list of options on the screen. Be sure to select the option you want, pressing the respective key on the keyboard. Each number on your keyboard will correspond to a respective Safe Mode. These numbers might vary by PC, so pay attention to what’s listed on the screen. You’ll only have a few seconds to make a choice before the Safe Mode prompt times out.

Get into Safe Mode from a black screen or broken Windows 11 PC

In the event that you can’t get into Safe Mode on Windows 11 from the login screen, you can do so by turning your device on and off again, until it forces you into the Windows Recovery Environment. This is an environment built into a special place on the storage drive of most new PCs, allowing you to restore or fix issues with Windows. You can get into the Windows Recovery Environment with our steps below.

Step 1: Hold down the power button for 10 seconds to turn off your device.

Step 2: Press the power button again to turn on your device.

Step 3: If you see that Windows has started and see the logo of your PC maker, hold down the power button again for 10 seconds to force turn off your device.

Step 4: Press the power button again to turn on your device.

Step 5: When Windows restarts, hold down the power button for 10 seconds to turn off your device.

Step 6: Press the power button again to turn on your device.

Step 7: Allow your device to fully restart and you’ll be taken to the Windows Recovery Environment.

Once you’re taken into the Windows Recovery Environment, you can follow our steps in the section above (starting from Step 4) to get into Safe Mode.

Get into Safe Mode directly from Windows 11

A third way of getting into Safe Mode can happen directly from Windows 11. You can do this by following our steps below. Just keep in mind that this option will require you to have a fully working PC.

Step 1: Select the Start menu and search for Settings.

Step 2: Select System in the side menu on the right of the screen, then choose Recovery on the left. (You may need to scroll down first.)

Step 3: Scroll down and find Advanced startup, then select the Restart now button.

Step 4: Follow the steps in the second section of this article, starting with Step 4.

How to exit Safe Mode

After you diagnosed and resolved your Windows 11 issue, you can restore your PC to its original state and exit Safe Mode. This is as simple as restarting and shutting down your device as you normally would. There’s no need for extra steps.

Frequently asked questions

What is Safe Mode?

Safe Mode is a mode in which you can run a basic version of Windows, a version that only uses some drivers and files. Running your PC in Safe Mode is a great way to troubleshoot issues with your computer.

What button do I press to boot into Safe Mode?

Before you can even press a button to boot into Safe Mode, you’ll need to follow one of the methods outlined earlier in this article that will get you to the menu that allows you press that button.

Once you reach that menu, you’ll be presented with a list of options. Here are the main ones for booting into Safe Mode in Windows 11:

• To boot into Safe Mode: Press 4 or F4.

• To boot into Safe Mode with Networking: Press 5 or F5.

• To boot into Safe Mode with Command Prompt: Press 6 or F6.

How do I boot into Safe Mode on Windows 10?

Booting into Safe Mode on Windows 10 is not that much different from doing so on Windows 11. But if you need a thorough guide to help you navigate the steps, you should check out our guide on how to boot into Safe Mode in Windows 10.

How to boot into safe mode in Windows 10

Safe Mode is a way of opening up a limited version of Windows. Doing so allows you to get around bugs or avoid viruses while troubleshooting problems with your system, making it safer for you to work on issues affecting the core of your computer.

On older systems, you can boot into Safe Mode by starting up your computer and pressing F8 when Windows first loads. However, Microsoft‘s latest iteration of Windows doesn’t follow this rule. So how do you turn on safe mode in Windows 10? This guide explains everything you need to know.

Which safe mode do you want?

On Windows 10, there are a few different types of Safe Mode you can choose from, so it’s important to know what they do and which you need.

• Safe Mode: This is the basic version that strips away all unnecessary programs and only autostarts a few chosen files and drivers to get the basic system running. It doesn’t allow for many advanced features, including connections with other computers or devices. That makes the computer safer from malware that may be able to move through local networks (like the WannaCry ransomware appeared capable of doing).

• Safe Mode with Networking: This is a mode that adds the necessary drivers and features to access networks. It’s not quite as safe, but it’s useful if you have only one computer and need to get online to look for help or see if connections to other devices still work.

• Safe Mode with Command Prompt: This option may not be available on all versions of Windows 10, but if it is you can enter this mode to bring up a big command prompt screen. This is good for more badly damaged operating systems or technical work where you know the precise command lines necessary to find a problem or launch a specific service. Make sure you know how to use the Command Prompt before accessing this mode.

Method 1: From the login screen or when frozen

If you are still on the login screen, this is an effective way to quickly boot into Safe Mode — and it may also work if Windows has suddenly frozen or programs like Outlook have become unresponsive.

Step 1: From the login screen, hold down Shift, and then click the power button on the screen (not your physical power button on the PC or laptop). A small box should pop up with a few different shut down options. Choose the Restart option.

Image used with permission by copyright holder

Step 2: Windows should revert to a window that says Choose an option (it may take a little time so don’t try anything until you see this). From here you will need to go through a few different menus to find the right restart option. First choose Troubleshoot, then Advanced options, then Startup Settings, and then Restart.

Step 3: Windows should now open up to a new window that says Startup Settings and includes a list of different options. The first Safe Mode options should be 4, with the other Safe Mode options following after. Press the number key for the Safe Mode that you want.

Method 2: When you’re already in Windows 10

There’s a slightly more roundabout way of booting into Safe Mode from Windows 10. You’ll find this method helpful if you want to shut down safely and restart Windows while preserving as much data as possible — without needing complex command lines.

Step 1: Head to your Start menu, and then choose or search for Settings.

Step 2: In Settings, look for Update & Security and select it. This will open a new window with a sidebar on the left side. In this sidebar, look for Recovery, and select that.

Step 3: Under the Advanced startup option, you should see a Restart now button. Select it and this will take you to the same selection screen as the first method of entering Safe Mode.

Step 4: Move through these menus by selecting Troubleshoot, then Advanced options, then Startup Settings, and then Restart.

Step 5: Give Windows time to load your selection of Startup settings. The Safe Mode options start at number 4. Press the number key for the Safe Mode you want.

Starting from a blank screen

Sometimes your PC will shut down before you can even reach a login screen, or it will refuse to show anything but a blank screen. If you can only get a blank or black screen, your steps to enter Safe Mode are a bit different. Here’s what you should try:

Step 1: Press the power button once to turn on your computer. Now, as soon as your computer gives any sign that it’s on — preferably a manufacturer logo on the screen, but if not, go with spinning fans — hold the power button down again for 10 seconds. You’re giving Windows 10 an SOS signal with these steps.

Step 2: Repeat Step 1.

Step 3: For the third time, press the power button once to turn the PC on, and at the first sign Windows has started, hold the power button down once more for 10 seconds until your device has turned off.

Step 4: Now press the power button a final time. Windows should have received the signal, and will boot up in recovery mode. From here, as before, select Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Settings > Restart. Then press the 4 key or a similar option for your desired Safe Mode.

Exiting Safe Mode

Once you fix your Windows problem, restoring the device’s original settings will require a few more steps. Follow the ones below to get back to your standard Windows 10 experience.

Note: You can also boot into Safe Mode from Windows by reversing the second part of Step 2.

Step 1: Start by clicking on the Start button. In the search box on your screen, enter MSConfig and click Enter. The computer will then go to the System Configuration feature automatically.

Step 2: Go to the Boot option. Under Boot options and on the lower left of the screen, you should see several options for Safe boot. Select one of those. Ensure that Safe boot is not checked.

Step 3: Now that Safe boot is unselected, choose OK, and opt to restart Windows 10. You can restart the computer as you normally would. From there, it should reopen with its full Windows capabilities.

Keep Reading

Featured

The 5 best floodlight cameras in 2024

By admin February 11, 2024

The 5 best floodlight cameras in 2024,Whether you’re living somewhere very rural with low lighting or just need to be extra sure to scare away (or record) any potential intruders, a floodlight camera is an excellent security tool for your home. And while there is a very large variety of floodlight cameras you can pick from, there are a couple of well-known brands that have risen to the top, and you’re likely quite familiar with a few of them. As such, we’ve collected our favorites in various categories and gone into their specs and why you should consider grabbing them, so be sure to check each one thoroughly before taking the plunge.

The Best Floodlight Cameras in 2024

• Buy the Arlo Pro 4 if you want the best overall floodlight camera

• Buy the Floodlight Cam Wired Pro if you want the best premium floodlight camera

• Buy the Wyze Cam Floodlight if you want the Best budget floodlight camera

• Buy the Google Nest Cam with floodlight if you want the best floodlight camera for Google users

Arlo Pro 4

Best overall floodlight camera

While the Arlo Pro 4 might not have a honking big spotlight like some other options here, it still has a reasonably bright camera, and the recording function is excellent for the price tag. Also, one of the big benefits of going with the latest version compared to the last is that it no longer relies on the Arlo hub to function. That means that you can connect it directly to your Wi-Fi router without having to worry about a third device in the middle to access it, making it overall cheaper than the last generation, even if it isn’t that big of an improvement in the specs front.

Speaking of specs, it runs a 4-megapixel ⅓-inch camera sensor with a wide 160-degree field of view and records at a 2k resolution, even though it would have been nice to have 4k with the new generation. It also has the full gamut of features you’d expect, such as digital zoom, auto-track, infrared lighting, and even HDR, which will also help a lot with video clarity. Nightvision is also pretty good, although part of that is because the spotlight kicks in to add a bit more color to the image, and you, unfortunately, can’t turn it off, so it can eat up battery life a little bit.

While the Arlo Pro 4 is supposed to have a battery life of up to six months, if you put it in a high-traffic area, you’re not really going to see it go that far, maybe even just a month or two. That said, changing the battery is pretty easy, and you can always buy a recharging base and extra battery so that you don’t ever have any downtime; plus, there’s a 25-foot magnetic charging cable you can use for stable power.

Also, it’s worth noting that some of the more advanced features, such as smoke/CO2 alarm and package detection, are hidden behind an Arlo subscription that will run you around $3 a month. You do get three months for free when you first buy it to try it out, but you will have to eventually pay if you want to enjoy the full features.

The 5 best floodlight cameras in 2024

Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Pro

Best premium floodlight camera

If you’re looking for something a little bit more fancy, then the Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Pro is an excellent alternative for those who need a few more premium features. For example, even the mounting is a lot more premium than some other floodlights you’ll find since it comes with a foam insert that helps protect it from the elements, meaning you don’t have to surround it with caulk for protection. It’s also a relatively easy install, so if you feel confident enough to install a light switch, you should be able to install the Ring Floodlight.

In terms of video quality, it sadly only comes with 1080p compared to the 2k of something like the Arlo, but it does have HDR, a 140-degree horizontal view, and an 80-degree vertical view. The image quality is actually pretty great, though, even though it runs at a lower resolution, and the night mode is pretty great, including the color night vision option, although that can somewhat make the image less clear. Of course, if you have the floodlights on, the image is pretty good, and with two 2,000-lumens floodlights, you get a lot of illumination, which is great.

As for features, there are a few good ones, but the most interesting is probably the bird’s eye view, which gives you a top-down satellite view of your house and all the people around it that it detects with its radar, giving you a sort of 3D view of your property. You also get two-way talk through the included speaker and microphone, and even more impressive, it does have some form of noise canceling to block out audio from outside to make any conversations a bit more clear. The only real downside is that quite a few features are locked behind the Ring Protect subscription service, such as video saving and sharing, people-only mode, and 60-day recording.

Wyze Cam Floodlight

Best budget floodlight camera

Buying a good floodlight camera doesn’t have to be incredibly expensive, and, in fact, there are some excellent budget options if you need a setup on the cheap. For that, we suggest the Wyze Cam Floodlight, which is surprisingly feature-rich for the price tag, making this the best budget option you can grab. Of course, there are some downsides, such as the fact that you can only record in 1080p and that there’s no HDR, although image quality is still pretty good.

Setup is relatively simple, and much like the Ring floodlight, if you know how to hook up a switch, you’ll likely have no issue hooking this up as well. Interestingly, you can store data locally since it comes with a MicroSD slot, which saves you the hassle of having to connect to Wi-Fi or pay a subscription fee, which admittedly isn’t that expensive at around $2 per month per camera for the cheapest option. You might have to opt for that for the 14-day of cloud storage and the smart alerts, which you won’t get without the subscription.

When it comes to lighting, you’ll be happy to know that the Wyze Cam Floodlights can manage a combined 2,600 lumens, which is better than the other two options so far. You get 270 degrees of motion detection, although only a 130-degree field of view; at least you can set the detection out to 30 feet, so you have a lot of space to work with when it comes to motion detection. Also, it comes with an automatic sundown feature that switches the floodlights on and off so that you don’t have to do it manually, which might seem like a basic thing, but for a budget floodlight cam, it’s pretty good.

Google Nest Cam with floodlight

Best floodlight camera for Google users

While the Ring floodlight camera is great for Amazon users, if you’re a Google user and want to stay in that ecosystem, then the way to go is to use the Google Nest Cam with Floodlight, which is a pretty excellent floodlight all things considered. For example, it has a very solid combined lumen of 2,400 and about 20 feet of pretty good night vision, as well as motion detection that will kick in both the camera and the floodlights if you want it to. It has 130 degrees of view as well as a 2-megapixel HDR camera, so you’re going to get good contrast and image quality.

In terms of recording, you get a 1080p resolution, and while there is a sort of emergency onboard storage of about an hour, if you want to record anything more than that, you will have to be connected to the internet. If you opt not to go with a subscription service, then you get three hours of cloud storage, which is pretty good, all things considered, although it would have been nice to have more substantial local storage.

As for the subscription offers themselves, you can get Nest Aware for $8/month, which gives you 30 days of video storage, or Nest Aware Plus for $15/month, which gives you 60 days of storage plus up to 10 days of 24/7 recording. Both subscriptions also give you access to calling 911 from the app, detection of familiar faces, smoke alarms, glass breaking, and a couple of other things.

Of course, the big positive of going for a Google Nest device is that you have a lot more control through the app than you would with some other ones, especially given the integrations into the Google ecosystem. You will need it to access the camera, but it does let you view the camera remotely, get various alerts, as well as integrate it into your various routines so it can automatically switch on and off if you want it.

More importantly, you get access to both Google Assistant and Alexa, so you get access to all the various devices in those ecosystems, so you don’t necessarily have to rely on your phone to view the camera or have a conversation.

How We Chose These Floodlight Cameras

Nighttime performance

If you’re going for a camera with a floodlight, then you’re very likely interested in something that works well at night. To that end, there are really two technologies that these types of cameras rely on to give you a good image quality: lighting and internal sensor quality. When it comes to lighting, we’ve done our best to choose cameras that can hit somewhere between 2,000 and 3,000 lumens, which is roughly equivalent to around 150 to 200-watt incandescent bulbs, so it’s pretty bright.

As for the internal sensor, well, that varies a lot from camera to camera, but the majority of the bigger brands tend to get high-end sensors that do well with night-time performance. Sometimes, these cameras will have HDR, provide a false-color view, or rely entirely on the spotlights for the picture quality. There are pros and cons to each, which we covered in the cameras where these things come up, but for the most part, all of these cameras should work just fine during the night.

That said, one thing to note is that most floodlight cameras do not have replaceable LEDs, so you will have to buy new ones when they run out a few years down the line. It’s not a massive problem, given that you’ll very rarely need to change them, but it’s just something to keep in mind.

Video Storage

One of the big problems of modern home security cameras is that any sort of real storage is locked behind a subscription service, meaning that if you don’t opt for one, you’ll be stuck with a small internal storage that will barely last a couple of hours. As such, we’ve done our best to pick cameras that either have some form of local storage, even if it’s with a MicroSD card or that have a relatively affordable subscription service with ample cloud storage, which, admittedly, is great if you want to view things when you’re away from home.

Keep Reading

Survelliance

Best outdoor security cameras 2024

By admin January 8, 2024

Best outdoor security cameras 2024, If you’re shopping for the best outdoor security cameras of 2024, you’ll want to find something that’s weatherproof, captures high-quality footage, and works well at night. It’s also important to consider your budget and ongoing subscriptions that may be required to access premium features such as cloud saving and person detection.

Regardless of your budget, there’s an outdoor security camera that’ll fit your needs. From premium products crafted by Ring to budget-friendly options like those from Wyze, there are dozens of well-reviewed models that are perfect for protecting your home.

In fact, some of the best outdoor security cameras also double as floodlights, allowing you to light up your yard. Others are wireless for easy installation, while a handful require wired connections (though this allows for continuous monitoring).

Below, you’ll find a list of the best outdoor security cameras of 2024. You can’t go wrong with any of them, but each one caters to a specific audience and budget, so take a closer look at each to figure out which is best for your home.

John Velasco / Digital Trends

Arlo Pro 4

Best outdoor security camera

The Arlo Pro 3 was our pick for the best outdoor security camera for some time, but after testing the Arlo Pro 4, it brings a couple of new additions that help it earn our top pick. Just like its predecessor, it packs 2K video resolution and a wide 160-degree viewing angle. Also included are a weatherproof camera with color night vision, a built-in LED spotlight, and a built-in siren that can alert you to danger.

What makes this model superior is the fact that it no longer is tethered to a hub in order to talk with your home’s Wi-Fi network. You won’t need it this time, which certainly streamlines the setup process. And best of all, not only does it perform as exquisitely as the Arlo Pro 3 when it comes to safeguarding your home, but it now boasts a lower starting cost of $200 for a single camera, whereas the Arlo Pro 3 started at $500 for a 2K camera system.

The Arlo Pro 4 includes a three-month free trial of Arlo Smart, which gives you access to advanced features like 30 days of recording history, activity zones, enhanced 911 calling, and advanced detection features.

Best outdoor security cameras 2024

.Arlo

Arlo Pro 5S 2K

Best premium outdoor security camera

Pros

• Captures 2K footage

• Low Power mode extends battery life

• Impressive 160-degree field of view

Cons

• Expensive

• Very similar to the more-affordable Arlo Pro 4

The Arlo Pro 5S 2K doesn’t cut any corners. Featuring a camera that captures 2K video, a wide field of view, sleek design, and color night vision, few products can match its performance. Unfortunately, all those features come at a price, as the Arlo Pro 5S 2K clocks in at $250.

That makes it one of the most expensive security cameras on this list, but if money is no object, it deserves a closer look. Not only does it offer every feature found on our beloved Arlo Pro 4, but it also features Dual-Band Wi-Fi for simplified installation, SecureLink Connectivity that allows it to stay protected during power outages, and a Low Power Mode that offers a 30% boost to battery life.

But beyond those features, it’s eerily similar to its cheaper sibling. Still, if you need an outdoor security camera that’s as cutting-edge as possible, you can’t do better than the Arlo Pro 5S.

Wyze Cam v3

Best budget outdoor security camera

Night vision is a vital feature for every outdoor security cam — you don’t want the darkness to hide any detail, especially if something like a break-in happens. While our top cam picks include various kinds of night vision, Wyze’s indoor/outdoor cam is particularly notable thanks to its Starlight Sensor, which can record night-time video in full color for users.

This wired cam includes all the other smart features that make Wyze’s cams a great pick, including a motion and sound sensor for alerts, detection zones, sensitivity settings that you can tweak for best results, and two-way audio for communication. It’s also compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant and is friendly with IFTTT if you’d like to set up complex routines based on the alerts the cam gives you.

The Wyze Cam v3 also has one of the best free video storage options around, with a 14-day cloud storage option for video clips at zero cost. There’s also an SD card slot for local storage if you prefer that method. While it’s an indoor/outdoor cam, you don’t need to worry: All the outdoor IP65 resistances are included for all types of weather.

Ring Spotlight Cam Pro

Best wireless outdoor security cam

Amazon‘s update to the Ring Spotlight Cam is an excellent option for those who don’t want a full floodlight camera, but would still like lots of illumination for their porch, patio, or driveway. The surprisingly bright LED lights on either side of the cam can be set to light up along with the motion detection features.

There’s a little bit of everything packed into the Spotlight Cam Pro’s design, including basics like 1080p video, night vision, and two-way audio. But Ring also has some extras, like a siren you can sound, advanced 3D motion detection, and a “Bird’s Eye” view option that gives you a model for where a subject may have gone. We also like that it’s battery-powered with an option to plug into an outlet.

As with all Ring cams, you will really want a Ring Protect plan to enable video storage and video sharing, but otherwise, this is the most comprehensive wireless security cam we’ve seen to date.

Blink Wired Floodlight Camera

Best floodlight camera

Blink makes plenty of great outdoor cameras, but few are as great as the Blink Wired Floodlight Camera. As one of the newest members of the Blink family, the Wired Floodlight Camera offers heaps of functionality despite its budget-friendly price of $99.

In case the name didn’t give it away, the Blink Wired Floodlight Camera isn’t just an outdoor camera – it’s also a floodlight. And a bright one at that, capable of producing 2,600 lumens of LED light. You’ll also benefit from motion detection, a wired connection that offers a constant power supply, and color night vision. Its design is a bit bulkier than others on this list, but that’s largely due to the massive floodlights that loom over the camera.

Anyone in the market for an outdoor camera that’s both affordable and powerful (and comes with shockingly bright floodlights) should give strong consideration to Blink’s new product. But if you’re looking for something with a more streamlined design, consider looking back at the Ring Spotlight Cam Pro mentioned above.

.Phil Nickinson / Digital Trends

Ring Stick Up Cam Pro

Best indoor and outdoor security camera

Pros

• Easy installation process

• 1080p video with HDR support

• Can also double as an indoor cam

Cons

• Expensive

• No privacy shutter

It’s a bit expensive, but you’re getting a lot of value out of this investment. The Ring Stick Up Cam Pro is designed to work both indoors and outside – giving it plenty of versatility. Along with its weatherproofing, the camera offers HDR video and films in 1080p, supports two-way audio, and is easy to install thanks to its wire-free setup.

One minor sticking point is its lack of a built-in privacy shutter. That might be an issue if you’re using it indoors, though you can quickly toggle alerts off and disarm the camera from the Ring smartphone app. But if you have it installed outside, you likely won’t miss the feature. You’ll also want to spring for a monthly Ring subscription to unlock additional features such as cloud saves and smart alerts.

Beyond those minor quirks, there’s not much to dislike about this powerful outdoor camera. Homes with other Ring products already installed will love how easy it is to sync the device with the rest of their smart home, and Ring newcomers will enjoy its high-quality images, simple setup, and generous 155-degree viewing angle.

Ring Stick Up Cam Pro

Best indoor and outdoor security camera

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do I place outdoor security cameras?

FBI crime data indicates that most (around 55%) home intruders try to get into homes through either the front or back door. So, you may want to have your security camera scoping out your doors. It’s also a good idea to cover other entry points, like back windows, that are hidden away where someone could break in without being seen.

Where exactly to mount your outdoor cameras, however, depends on your property and your individual needs. You may have a shed in the back that contains expensive lawn equipment, for instance, and you might want to place more focus on that area. Perhaps your neighborhood has experienced a few break-ins recently, and the intruders typically enter through the garage, so you want to cover your garage area.

How many security cameras do I need?

Typically, having at least two outdoor cameras is ideal, not including your video doorbell. If you have a video doorbell to watch your porch, combined with an outdoor security camera covering the front and back areas of your home, this should be sufficient. However, if you have a large property, live in an area where there’s a lot of property crime, or if you have vehicles or valuables stored on your property, you may want to add in an extra camera or two.

Can you use an indoor security camera outdoors?

No. An indoor camera does not have the necessary protection from the elements, so it won’t hold up outside. Some cameras are rated for indoor or outdoor use, and you can use those cameras outside. If you want to point your indoor camera out a window to watch the outdoors, you technically can do so. However, the camera’s features probably won’t work as well, and you’re better off just buying a cheap outdoor camera.

Can outdoor security cameras be used indoors?

Yes, although it’s not usually recommended because the cameras designed for outdoor use may not work optimally indoors. Again, you can opt for a camera that’s rated for both indoors and outdoors, like a dome camera.

Do all outdoor security cameras have two-way audio?

The short answer is no. Many wired outdoor cameras feature two-way audio, which allows you to speak back and forth with someone through the camera via an app on your phone, but not all outdoor cameras have this feature.

If two-way audio is something you’re interested in, consider doing research on which cameras have it, and of the ones that do, read up on which are better. Not all two-way audio is created equal — some companies do it well, while others do not. Keep in mind that cameras with two-way audio might cost a bit more than those that don’t feature the technology.

How well does night vision work on an outdoor security camera?

Night vision on cameras typically uses infrared light to illuminate dark images at night. Essentially, cameras with night vision use this technology to backlight images to help you see what’s happening in the field of view. Most outdoor security cameras feature night vision, but the quality varies from model to model.

If you’re looking for superior night vision, go for the Arlo camera listed above, or research night vision quality before making a purchase.

How well do outdoor security cameras detect motion?

Motion sensitivity in outdoor security cameras varies widely, but generally, the technology works well regardless of the model you choose. Most cameras, even inexpensive ones, do an excellent job of detecting motion, and, if the camera is connected to an app, it will send a motion alert to your phone. Most people find that motion settings on cameras are too sensitive, meaning that things like rain, bugs, or even bright sunlight can trigger an alert.

If you’re concerned about motion alerts, consider buying a camera that not only sends you motion alerts so you can monitor what’s happening on your property but also allows you to adjust the motion sensitivity so that small things aren’t triggering it all the time.

Can outdoor security cameras survive severe weather?

Most outdoor cameras have a rating of IP65 or higher, which means they are waterproof and can withstand someone spraying a hose on them. That usually (but not always) means that a camera with that rating can withstand extreme temperatures ranging from -40 to 110 degrees Fahrenheit or similar.

Cameras vary slightly in terms of survival in extreme weather, but anything with a rating of IP65 or higher will be fine for most climates. If you live in an extremely hot or extremely cold climate, you might want to consider a camera with a rating of IP66 or higher.

Do I have to pay for storage for an outdoor camera?

This depends a lot on the brand and the model. Generally, if a security cam has a memory card slot, you can use native storage without paying anything — it’s just a little trickier to manage. If you want video footage to be uploaded to the cloud for easier viewing and saving, you’ll often have to pay for it. Brands like Arlo and Ring only allow for free livestreaming video and require a plan if you want to save video for any length of time. Google is one of the best options here because its Nest cam offers a certain amount of free online storage without needing a subscription.

Is an outdoor security camera ever illegal?

It can be, although privacy laws haven’t entirely caught up with home security cams yet. Generally speaking, you can’t point a camera where people have the expectation of privacy. Pointing a cam at your porch and the street in front? Totally fine, it’s considered a public area. Pointing a camera so that it captures footage of your neighbor’s backyard or looks into their windows? Illegal, and you could get successfully sued for it.

Keep Reading

Smart Tech

The best Apple HomeKit devices 2023

By admin December 20, 2023

While not as widespread as Google Home or Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit remains one of the most popular smart home ecosystems of 2023. The software plays well with iOS devices, and several other gadgets such as smart lights, smart locks, thermostats, and cameras can be controlled using the fancy technology. If you’re looking to build your smart home around Apple’s ecosystem, here are the best HomeKit devices available today.

Locks

Image used with permission by copyright holder

HomeKit doesn’t have the largest selection of smart locks, but that doesn’t really matter when you have something as well-rounded as the Aqara Smart Lock U100. Not only does it offer full HomeKit support, but you’ll even gain access to Apple home keys — allowing you to unlock your door with your iPhone or Apple Watch. There’s also the standard keypad for entering a passcode, along with a fingerprint sensor that can store several dozen fingerprints (so your whole family can enter the home without worrying about forgetting their password or smartphone).

A physical key is included for emergency access, and the smart lock is designed to run for up to eight months before you’ll need to replace its batteries. Other standout features include “Do Not Disturb Mode,” auto-locking, and an IP65 rating to help it withstand whatever nature throws its way.

The Schlage Encode Plus is another solid option. This lock includes all of the latest HomeKit features, including Apple home key support. Of course, you still have access to a physical key lock and touchscreen support. The Encode Plus also works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant while having full HomeKit and Siri support. The lock is pretty expensive at $299, but if you want a lock with all of Apple’s secure HomeKit features and a host of other features, Schlage’s Encode Plus is currently your only route.

The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is still a great choice for one of the best smart locks and makes it possible for you to do things like track who is coming and going, give access to specific people, or lock and unlock your door remotely. Plus, it attaches to your existing deadbolt, so you don’t have to get a new set of house keys. In addition to being compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, it’s also compatible with Apple HomeKit, too. You can check out our full review of the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock.

Don’t want to have to worry about a house key? Yale Assure Lock uses a touchscreen keypad. If you upgrade your Yale Assure Lock (models YRD246 or YRD256) with a Yale iM1 Network Module, it’ll be compatible with Apple HomeKit. The module typically costs somewhere in the $50 range, and it’ll let you control the lock with voice commands and more. Read more about the Yale Assure SL lock in our full review.

You could also spring for the Yale Assure Lock 2, which comes in a variety of designs — including a few models that give you remote access to your front door via Wi-Fi. Our review found it to be a premium smart lock that’s more than worth its hefty price tag. If you’re deep into the Apple ecosystem, consider springing for the Yale Assure Lock 2 Plus with Apple Home Keys, as it works not just with HomeKit, but also supports Home Keys — allowing you to unlock your door with a tap of your iPhone or Apple Watch.

The best Apple HomeKit devices 2023

Lighting

Image used with permission by copyright holder

Now your favorite Hue products work with your Apple devices. You can adjust dimming, change colors in certain rooms, sync your lights, set scenes, and more. The Philips Hue Starter Kit is a great way to get started with smart lighting.

Lifx A19 LED Bulbs are another great HomeKit-compatible option. Delivering 1,100 lumens, they’re about as bright as a 75-watt incandescent bulb. However, they’re energy-efficient at only 11 watts, and they have a 22-year lifespan. With 16 million color options and no hub required, Lifx A19s offers a lot in a compact-sized bulb, including the Candle Color, the first smart LED bulb that can emit multiple colors of light at once.

The Nanoleaf Essentials Matter A19 Smart Bulb boasts full HomeKit support, and it even works with Matter. It’ll give you access to millions of different colors, a simple smartphone app, and a quick setup process. Consider giving it a look if you need something that works not just with Apple HomeKit, but other smart home platforms you may have running in your house.

If you want something a little bit different, Nanoleaf’s Light Panels are triangular smart light panels you can shape into whatever design you like. Connect them to Apple HomeKit to activate different scenes. There’s even a rhythm add-on, so your panels and music will work in sync. If you’re looking for a less expensive way to add some color to your space, another great option is the Lifx Z, a HomeKit controllable Multi Color LED Light strip. The ribbon comes in at 6.6 feet, and additional extensions can be added on for greater flexibility.

Switches and smart plugs

Wemo

Don’t have a smart light but want to tell “Hey Siri, dim the bedroom light?” The WeMo Smart Light Switch lets you voice-control your lights, set your lights on a schedule, and optimize them based on the bulbs you’re using and prevent flickering. With Apple HomeKit, you can tell Siri to turn the lights off for bedtime, or you can have it set the lights to brighten in the morning. The Lutron Caseta Smart Lighting Dimmer Switch is also compatible with HomeKit, and you can even install the switch without a neutral wire.

Another option is to go with a smart plug, which lets you control devices you plug in (think lamps, holiday lights, or even appliances). The Wemo Smart Plug with Thread from Belkin lets you control a plugged-in device with your voice or phone when connecting it to Apple HomeKit. This edition with Thread support allows for a faster and more reliable connection.

For an even smaller version, you may prefer the Pure Gear PureSwitch, which offers app control, timers, and energy management options for anything you plug in. If you want to replace an entire outlet (both top and bottom) then check out the Connectsense Smart Outlet 2. You’ll also get a lot of information about how much energy your devices are using, through the Connectsense app. This plug also works with Alexa and Google Assistant.

Thermostats

Image used with permission by copyright holder

Ecobee released its Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium and Smart Thermostat Enhanced models in 2022. Seeing that the Ecobee 4 was our previous choice for the best thermostat, it’s easy to give the crown to the new generation. The model sports a new design and the Ecobee’s Smart Thermostat Premium has Siri fully built-in and is HomeKit-compatible. It still works with Google Home and Amazon Alexa, as well. The new radar sensor and air quality monitor take the advancements and convenience up a level. If you want something a bit more affordable, the Ecobee Lite still has a lot to offer. The Lite works with HomeKit and other smart home systems, but it doesn’t have Alexa built into the thermostat.

Honeywell’s Lyric T6 Pro thermostat is HomeKit-compatible as well, and it’s a very cost-effective option. The T6 Pro is an upgrade to one of our old top choices, Honeywell’s Lyric T5. It has features like geofencing, scheduling, and smart alerts. Adaptive auto-recovery makes it so the thermostat knows how long it takes to heat or cool your home to your desired temperature at specific times, and the thermostat can also auto-change from heat to cool.

Otherwise, if you are more interested in a minimal approach — a thermostat that appears to disappear into your wall — you’ll want to take a look at the ; variations are available for both baseboard heating and in-floor heating. Minimal doesn’t mean simple, however, as the Mysa includes a smartphone app to monitor your energy usage and set up a heating schedule.

Cameras and security devices

Daven Mathies/Digital Trends

Logitech’s Circle View is a smart choice if you’re focused on personal privacy with features such as an electronic shutter. It’s weatherproof, easy to set up, and has some pretty decent free features, like 24-hour cloud storage and smart alerts with snapshots. It also has an impressive view radius of 180 degrees. Some of the more advanced features, like person detection and motion zones, require a paid subscription (after a 10-day free trial).

Eufy also has a range of affordable indoor and outdoor cameras that work flawlessly with HomeKit Secure Video. Another great part is that you don’t need a subscription to use these cameras either. Check out Eufy Indoor Cam 2K , Indoor Cam Pan & Tilt 2K, and Floodlight Cam 2 Pro to get the best of the company’s offerings. Keep in mind that if you want to stream a HomeKit-enabled camera remotely, you need a HomePod Mini, an Apple TV 4K, or Apple TV (4th generation).

Apple HomeKit supports other security devices outside of just cameras. Eve and Aqara create complete lines of various sensors to place around and monitor your home. For example, Eve has a door and window sensor, a motion sensor, and a room sensor that monitors temperature and air quality. Aqara also has low-cost sensors, including a water-leak sensor, temperature and humidity sensor, and a vibration sensor, to name a few. Sensors like those or the can add extra home security while also making it possible for you to do things like have the lights turn on when your door opens.

Your options for video doorbells are limited with HomeKit, but the Logitech Circle View Wired Doorbell is a solid option. It’s a bit pricey at $200, but it offers secure storage that’s encrypted before getting backed up to iCloud, rich notifications that alert you when an animal, vehicle, or person is detected, and it supports customizable motion zones. It’s also a rather sleek device, featuring a design that’s all black and with a footprint smaller than most other video doorbells on the market.

A/V devices

Image used with permission by copyright holder

Whether you’re a music fanatic or cinephile, you can use an Apple HomePod mini to expand your at-home A/V experience. For starters, the HomePod mini is an excellent way to listen to your favorite playlists. The speaker’s sound is surprisingly room-filling for its size and includes Thread connectivity to help with your other smart home accessories. Purchase multiple HomePod minis, and you can pair them together to create 360-degree stereo sound.

If you’re willing to drop a bit more cash, you can snag the new HomePod 2023 for $299. It offers everything found in the HomePod mini, although you’ll be treated to radically improved audio. Thanks to its larger footprint, the HomePod manages to pack in a high-excursion woofer, a beamforming array of five tweeters, and supports Spatial Audio and Room sensing to optimize its performance regardless of where you place it. In other words, the HomePod is a massive upgrade over the HomePod mini and is perfect for creating room-filling sound.

Alternatively, Sonos, has a plethora of products that all have Airplay 2 and are HomeKit-compatible. You can purchase the Sonos One, Sonos Beam, Sonos Amp, or the Sonos Ray soundbar and Sonos Roam portable speaker. The new Sonos Era 100 is another great option, as it’s built with support for AirPlay 2, and you can use Siri to play Apple Music through the Home app.

For home-theater hounds, the fourth-gen Apple TV 4K is a fantastic way to bring HomeKit to your media cave. The streaming device delivers crystal-clear 4K HDR and features Siri support. In cases where you may need a smart bridge to control your HomeKit devices, the Apple TV can do that.

Bridges

Image used with permission by copyright holder

Even though there aren’t a lot of smart home systems that require bridges, they can be crucial in some cases. As you might expect from their name, bridges connect the Home app and HomeKit with a particular brand’s devices, guaranteeing compatibility. They are essential for people who want to increase the functionality of their favorite brands.

For instance, let’s look at the Wemo Bridge. It links the Home app and the Belkin Wemo brand, increasing compatibility between devices such as the Wemo Switch, Insight Smart Plug, LightSwitch, and Dimmer.

The advantage of this is that your older Wemo devices will work with your system again. The Apple TV 4K is also a terrific, trustworthy bridge for HomeKit devices.

Stay tuned for Matter

CSA

Matter, a new interoperability standard for smart home gadgets, has already started rolling out to select devices — and more are expected to follow in the coming months. In fact, the company recently revealed the new HomePod — which comes with full Matter support. Apple is one of the biggest companies on board with the technology, meaning HomeKit devices should soon be compatible with any devices that support Matter. In other words, the small HomeKit catalog will grow much larger once Matter updates are pushed to some of today’s hottest devices. A variety of Google and Amazon products have already been updated, so keep your eyes peeled as more manufacturers jump on board throughout 2023.

Keep Reading

Floodlight Cam

How to downgrade Windows 11 to Windows 10

How to downgrade from Windows 11 to Windows 10

How to downgrade from Windows 11 past 10 days

How to downgrade Windows 11 to Windows 10

Frequently asked questions

Can Windows 11 be downgraded to Windows 10?

Why is “Go back” no longer available?

Can I downgrade from Windows 11 to 10 after 10 days?

How to start Windows 11 in Safe Mode

The different safe modes

Getting to Safe Mode from login on Windows 11

Get into Safe Mode from a black screen or broken Windows 11 PC

Get into Safe Mode directly from Windows 11

How to exit Safe Mode

Frequently asked questions

What is Safe Mode?

What button do I press to boot into Safe Mode?

How do I boot into Safe Mode on Windows 10?

How to boot into safe mode in Windows 10

Which safe mode do you want?

Method 1: From the login screen or when frozen

Method 2: When you’re already in Windows 10

Starting from a blank screen

Exiting Safe Mode

How to set up Windows 11 Hyper-V virtual machines

Best dash cams 2024

Best free antivirus 2024