In general, we recommend wired cameras for indoor settings and wireless cameras for outdoors.
An abundance of electrical outlets indoors makes a perfect habitat for wired security cameras. While you won’t have as much placement flexibility as with a wire-free camera, the installation process is just as easy in most cases. Plus, wired cameras are usually more affordable, so you can have excellent indoor coverage while focusing the bulk of your budget on outdoor cameras.
Wireless security cameras are a natural choice outdoors because you can achieve perfect placement, especially when using a solar panel charger. You’ll need to keep on top of the battery life, but it’s a small price to pay for quick installation.
In some cases, it might make sense to use a wired camera outdoors. A wired outdoor camera may take more effort to install but is easier to maintain. We recommend wired power for video doorbells and floodlight cameras. It’s especially useful for charging batteries in wireless models.
Likewise, using a wireless camera indoors is a good way to keep recording during a power outage. Most wireless cameras support a power cord, so charging the battery is effortless. You can also install the camera where a power cord won’t reach.
Learn more in our guide to Wired vs. Wireless Security Cameras.