Best Airbnb Security Camera of 2023

Many Airbnb hosts like to use security cameras to monitor the exterior of their short-term rental property. This is especially true if the host doesn’t live near their Airbnb. Cameras are an excellent way to keep an eye on your property. In many cases, security cameras can even help hosts win disputes in the Airbnb Resolution Center. But how do you get your hands on the best security camera for your Airbnb?

Thankfully you no longer have to hire a pricy security company to install and monitor your property. Security cameras can be purchased online and are easy to set up and work with your Airbnb Wi-Fi to provide smart features for the property. You can use security cameras and other home automation features such as smart locks or smart lighting to improve your guest experience.

Notify Your Guests of Cameras in Use

Unfortunately, security cameras can also give guests a reason not to book your listing or cancel their booking altogether. So it’s important to choose a system that doesn’t infringe on their privacy while still meeting your needs. 

Just be sure to inform your guests that there are cameras on site and any other house rules they need to know. The best Airbnb security cameras enhance a guest’s experience rather than monitors their every move. And don’t be creepy; please, no cameras inside!

Our Picks for the Best Airbnb Security Camera

Adding a security camera to the exterior of your Airbnb does not need to be expensive or labor-intensive. With our favorite picks for the best Airbnb security camera, you can have your entire property covered.

Arlo Security System by NETGEAR

Arlo offers a range of indoor/outdoor cameras that are extremely easy to set up and use. The Arlo Security System is WiFi enabled, with the option of battery or wired power – or both. They can be configured to detect motion in specific zones, alerting you if someone is at your listing when they aren’t supposed to be! This is by far the easiest system for hosts to use, and we highly recommend going with the 24/7 recording option. You’ll easily win all your Airbnb Resolution Center claims.

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Arlo offers a range of indoor and outdoor cameras that are extremely easy to set up and use. The Arlo Security System is Wi-Fi-enabled, with the option of battery or wired power or both. They can be configured to detect motion in specific zones, alerting you if someone is at your listing when they aren’t supposed to be! This is the easiest system for hosts to use, and we highly recommend going with the 24/7 recording option.

Arlo Key Features

• 100% wire-free for easy placement anywhere (wired option is available)
• Full-color night vision camera
• Motion-activated alerts sent as an e-mail or smartphone notification 
• The camera is set to record only when motion or sound is detected, or 24/7 with a subscription
• Indoor, outdoor, and weatherproof
• View live video from anywhere using your smartphone
• Use two-way audio to speak to your guests from your smartphone through the camera’s internal speakers
• Compatible with Alexa, Hey Google, Apple HomeKit, and Samsung SmartThings

There is quite literally nothing Arlo can’t do, except maybe roll over and play fetch.

Nest Cam Outdoor Security Camera

Nest is a Google-owned company that makes security cameras in addition to smart thermostats. Nest is a Google-owned company that makes security cameras in addition to smart thermostats and other IoT devices. Their security cameras are top-rated, but they aren’t as easy to use as Arlo. While Nest lacks a few of the bells and whistles that Arlo has, such as the ability to define custom motion alert zones, Nest Cameras are similar in terms of features.

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Nest Key Features

• 24/7 live video with 130º wide-angle view
• Get an alert on your smartphone when Nest Cam detects activity
• Speak with guests via the integrated 2-way speaker
• Night vision capabilities to check in on the property in the evening
• 3 hours of free event history and 60 days of event history with a subscription
• 24/7 continuous cloud recording with Nest Aware subscription

Your listing will be as secure as a bird, all thanks to Google Nest. This list of features has got you covered.

Zmodo Wireless Security Camera System

While a well-known brand name doesn’t back these cameras, the Zmodo cameras are another great option, and it’s available at a much lower price point. The lower price does come with lower quality features, but it’s an excellent option if you’re budget-conscious or are just dipping your toes into the digital-security world.

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Zmodo Key Features

• Sends still image alerts to your smartphone
• Plugs into a standard power outlet
• Black and white night vision
• Indoor, outdoor, and weatherproof
• Compatible with Alexa
• View a live stream video of your property on your smartphone
• 7-day video recording with a Zmodo subscription instead of just pictures

Zmodo doesn’t feature a two-way audio system, but we don’t know anyone who actually interacts with guests outside their home instead of running and hiding out of sight. So don’t worry if this speaker option isn’t included!

Blink Security Camera

Blink is an Amazon brand offering security cameras for outdoor use. Installation can happen quickly and on nearly any surface with no wires to worry about. The Blink does come with a Sync Module that stays indoors and plugs into an outlet; the Sync Module and the Blink Camera work together to detect and record events.

Blink Key Features

• Infrared night vision
• Runs on 2 AA batteries for up to two years
• Stores events in the cloud with a Blink Subscription Plan
• Saves events locally to the Blink Sync Module
• Outdoor and weatherproof
• Receive motion alerts on your phone
• Set up motion zones
• Speak with guests via a 2-way speaker

With setup that takes a blink of an eye, this security camera will let you rest for more than a wink.

That’s a Wrap

Many properties have security cameras to protect the residents; the same applies to your Airbnb. You want to provide peace of mind to your guests while protecting your investment. Security cameras are even more ideal if your property sits empty for some time or is remote. 

If you have amenities such as a pool or spa, you may wish to place a camera with a clear view of these areas to protect yourself from any liabilities in case of an accident. As you’re shopping around for a security camera, think of your listing and prioritize your needs to choose the best one for your Airbnb listing.

What security camera do you use at your Airbnb? Let us know in the comments below.