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SimpliSafe Outdoor Camera Review: Smart Security for Your Home's Exterior
By Ben Carter
8.7
Consumers Best Verdict: SimpliSafe Highlights
The SimpliSafe Outdoor Camera extends the brand's renowned DIY home security ecosystem to your home's exterior. It promises easy setup, clear HD video, and smart alerts to keep you informed of activity around your property, integrating seamlessly with other SimpliSafe components.
For current SimpliSafe users or those seeking straightforward, reliable outdoor monitoring without complex installations, the SimpliSafe Outdoor Camera is a strong contender. It offers good value, decent performance, and the convenience of a unified security system, though some advanced features are tied to a subscription.
In-Depth Look: SimpliSafe Features & Considerations
Core Features & Consumer Benefits
The SimpliSafe Outdoor Camera packs several key features designed to provide effective outdoor surveillance and peace of mind. Here’s how they benefit you:
Wireless & Easy Installation
Sets up in minutes with no professional help needed, offering flexible placement options around your home.
HD Video & Night Vision
Captures clear 1080p HD video with an 8x digital zoom and color night vision (with adequate ambient light) or infrared, ensuring you can see important details day or night.
Smart Motion Detection
Features adjustable motion sensitivity and can distinguish between people, vehicles, and animals (with a subscription) to reduce false alarms.
Two-Way Audio
Allows you to hear and speak to visitors or deter intruders directly through the camera using the SimpliSafe app.
SimpliSafe Ecosystem Integration
Works seamlessly with your existing SimpliSafe alarm system for a comprehensive home security solution, viewable and manageable within one app.
Important Considerations & Potential Downsides
- Subscription for Full Functionality
Cloud video storage, smart alerts (person, vehicle, animal detection), and unlimited camera recordings require a paid SimpliSafe monitoring plan.
- Battery Life & Charging
While decent, battery life varies with usage and settings. Recharging requires removing the camera or battery, though a solar panel accessory is sold separately.
- 140° Field of View
Offers a good viewing angle, but some competitors provide wider coverage, potentially requiring more cameras for larger areas.
- No Local Storage Option
Relies on cloud storage for recordings; there's no microSD card slot for local backup if the internet is down or you prefer local storage.
Who Is the SimpliSafe Best For?
Existing SimpliSafe System Owners
It integrates perfectly, providing a unified security experience within a familiar app for their outdoor camera needs.
DIY Enthusiasts
Those who prefer easy, wire-free setup and management of their outdoor security camera without needing professional installation.
Budget-Conscious Consumers Seeking Ecosystem Security
Offers a reliable outdoor camera as part of an affordable, comprehensive security system.
Users Wanting Basic but Effective Outdoor Monitoring
Delivers essential features like HD video, two-way audio, and motion alerts reliably for their SimpliSafe Outdoor Camera.
Homeowners and Renters
The wireless design of the SimpliSafe Outdoor Camera makes it suitable for various property types without permanent alterations.
Who Might Want to Explore Other Options?
- Users Needing Advanced AI Features without Subscription
If features like package detection or specific facial recognition for their outdoor camera are crucial without extra fees, other brands might be better.
- Those Requiring Continuous 24/7 Recording for Outdoor Cameras
The SimpliSafe Outdoor Camera is primarily event-based; those needing constant recording should look at cameras with wired power and local storage options.
- Individuals Not Invested in the SimpliSafe Ecosystem
If you don't have or plan to get a SimpliSafe system, standalone outdoor cameras from other brands might offer more features or better value.
- Tech-Savvy Users Seeking Highly Customizable Outdoor Camera Settings
While user-friendly, the SimpliSafe Outdoor Camera may lack the granular control and advanced customization options found in some competitor cameras.
