5 Best Security Camera That Notifies Your Phone Both Outdoor/Indoor

Best Outdoor/Indoor Security Camera That Notifies Your Phone? Looking for a security camera that not only keeps an eye on your home but also sends notifications directly to your phone? You’re not alone.

With break-ins happening every 18 seconds in the US, it’s no wonder that homeowners are turning to smart surveillance systems for peace of mind. But with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to find the perfect fit.

Fear not, as we’ve done the research and narrowed down the best security cameras that notify and send text messages to your phone, both for indoor and outdoor use. So if you’re looking to keep a watchful eye on your property, keep reading to find the perfect fit for you.

5 Best Security Cameras That Notifies and Sends Text Messages to Your Phone: Outdoor and Indoor Security Cameras with Alert

1. Google Nest Outdoor and Indoor Cam

Google Nest Cam Outdoor or Indoor, Battery - 2nd Generation - 1 Pack

Google Nest Outdoor and Indoor Cam is the best security camera that notifies and sends text messages to your phone because of its superior features. The Nest Cam IQ Outdoor offers excellent two-way communication, allowing you to communicate with anyone in its field of view. It also sends live alerts directly to your smartphone if it hears any loud sounds like a window smashing.

The camera’s night image quality is impressive, and images at night are extremely crisp, even from long distances away. With its Enhance mode, you can zoom in on various locations and get a clear image of what you’ve zoomed in on, and you can also focus and zoom in on people in the camera’s field of view.

The Nest Cam IQ Indoor is also a great option, with its facial recognition feature that can improve your home security tremendously. It catalogues all the faces it sees and relies on you to put a name to those faces using the accompanying app. With Nest’s AI-powered by Google, the camera can easily recognize faces. Once it has a database of Familiar Faces, you can configure your notifications to notify you if a particular person is seen.

Google Nest Cam Outdoor or Indoor, Battery - 2nd Generation - 1 Pack as one of the Best Security Camera That Notifies Your Phone Both Outdoor/Indoor

Moreover, Nest Cam options include the plugged-in indoor model, the battery-powered weatherproof model, and the floodlight-equipped model. All these cameras share the same core features, including motion detection, person detection, and activity zones.

Each can also be added to a Nest Aware subscription, which enables cloud recording plus up to 10 days of continuous recording at the highest tier. Even without Nest Aware, you can still enjoy mobile notifications from the cameras and three hours of event history with snapshots.

In addition, Nest Cam works intuitively with Google Home speakers, allowing you to access and stream live video 24/7 and use voice commands to control your cameras.

With the latest update, you can now view live footage from the latest Nest Cams on Alexa-enabled smart displays and smart TVs. Alexa can also announce motion detection and doorbell ring alerts and deliver two-way audio.

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Pros of Google Nest Outdoor Cam:

  • Delivers 1080p video
  • Can distinguish between a person and other moving objects
  • Completely weatherproof
  • Optional Nest Aware subscription allows for event-based recording or 24/7 cloud recording
  • Customizable Activity Zones and person detection to cut down on nuisance alerts
  • Integrates with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant
  • Most accurate person alerts and Activity Zones on any corded camera
  • Sends smartphone notifications within 15 seconds of action
  • Impressive 1080p images and sound during the day and at night
  • Wide 130-degree field of view and 8x digital zoom

Cons of Google Nest Outdoor Cam:

  • Power cord limits placement options to areas within reach of an outlet
  • Issues with nonstop recording for those with internet data caps
  • Need for Nest Aware subscription for full functionality
  • Occasionally downgrades picture quality based on available bandwidth, which can fluctuate throughout the day
  • Bandwidth options may defeat the purpose of having a 1080p camera

Pros of Google Nest Indoor Cam:

  • Delivers 1080p HD video
  • Two-way audio
  • Integrates with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant
  • Optional Nest Aware subscription allows for event-based recording or 24/7 cloud recording
  • Customizable Activity Zones and person detection to cut down on nuisance alerts
  • Sends smartphone notifications within 15 seconds of action
  • Impressive 1080p images and sound during the day and at night
  • Wide 130-degree field of view and 8x digital zoom
  • Compact and easy to install

Cons of Google Nest Indoor Cam:

  • Power cord limits placement options to areas within reach of an outlet
  • Need for Nest Aware subscription for full functionality
  • Occasionally downgrades picture quality based on available bandwidth, which can fluctuate throughout the day
  • Bandwidth options may defeat the purpose of having a 1080p camera
  • Does not have weatherproof capabilities for outdoor use

Overall, Google Nest Outdoor and Indoor Cam is the best security camera that notifies and sends text messages to your phone due to its excellent features, including two-way communication, facial recognition, and superior night image quality.

It also offers various camera options and can be integrated with Google Home and Alexa-enabled devices. With Nest Aware, you can enjoy cloud recording and up to 10 days of continuous recording, making it a great investment for your home security.

2. Arlo Pro 4 Security camera

Arlo Pro 4 Spotlight Camera - 1 Pack - Wireless Security, 2K Video & HDR, Color Night Vision, 2 Way Audio, Wire-Free, Direct to WiFi No Hub Needed, White - VMC4050P as one of the Best Security Camera That Notifies Your Phone Both Outdoor/Indoor

The Arlo Pro 4 is the best security camera that notifies and sends text messages to your phone, both for indoor and outdoor use. Its spotlight and siren add an extra level of security deterrence that other cameras in the same price range lack, making it a great option for those who want to deter intruders.

Its integration with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa makes it a truly smart home-friendly camera across different ecosystems. The camera’s general quality is outstanding, consistently outshining the competition in terms of resolution, performance, and battery life.

The Arlo Pro 4’s 2K video quality is excellent, and it has both color and infrared night vision. It also offers affordable cloud storage, tons of adjustable settings, and smart home integration. The camera is not perfect, but it strikes the best balance of advanced features and price compared to other high-end cameras.

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Pros:

  • 100% wire-free operation
  • Quick and easy setup
  • Sensitive motion detector
  • Indoor/outdoor durability
  • Quality 2K video
  • Bright spotlight for color night-vision video
  • Ability to adjust spotlight brightness, camera brightness, motion sensitivity, and activity zones
  • Compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT, and Samsung SmartThings
  • Unbeatable smart home integration

Cons:

  • Pricey
  • Battery life is limited
  • No free video storage

Arlo Pro 4 Spotlight Camera - 1 Pack - Wireless Security, 2K Video & HDR, Color Night Vision, 2 Way Audio, Wire-Free, Direct to WiFi No Hub Needed, White - VMC4050P

While it may be pricey, it is an investment in your home security that is worth making. Overall, the Arlo Pro 4 is the best security camera for those who want a reliable, high-quality camera that offers smart home integration and excellent performance.

3. Reolink Argus 2: Best IP Security Camera with Push Notifications and Two-Way Audio

REOLINK Argus 2E Solar Security Camera - 2K 3MP Wireless, No Hub Needed, No Extra Subscription Fee, Local Storage, Rechargeable Battery Solar Powered, 2-Way Talk, 2.4GHz WiFi for Home Security

Reolink Argus 2 is the best IP security camera with push notifications and two-way audio for both outdoor and indoor use. With its built-in PIR motion sensor, it can detect any movement and send real-time alerts to your phone via push notifications, email alerts, and sound warnings.

The camera is designed to be weatherproof, so it can be placed outside to monitor visitors and package deliveries, or inside to keep an eye on your family and pets.

One of the most significant advantages of the Reolink Argus 2 is its rechargeable battery and solar panel (sold separately) option, which provides non-stop power to the camera. This feature eliminates the need to change batteries frequently, saving you extra expenses. Moreover, the camera’s wide viewing angle and onboard storage options make it an ideal standalone security camera.

REOLINK Argus 2E Solar Security Camera - 2K 3MP Wireless, No Hub Needed, No Extra Subscription Fee, Local Storage, Rechargeable Battery Solar Powered, 2-Way Talk, 2.4GHz WiFi for Home Security

Another crucial feature of Reolink Argus 2 is its two-way audio, which allows you to communicate with visitors or family in real-time. You can talk to them and check on them to ensure everything is okay. The camera’s motion detection alerts and recording also save you from accessing the camera all the time. You can only view the camera once you receive the push notifications.

Pros:

  • Built-in PIR motion sensor to detect movements and distinguish people/vehicles from other objects
  • Real-time alerts via push notifications, email alerts, and siren
  • Two-way audio feature to talk to visitors
  • IP65-certified weatherproof design for outdoor use
  • Wide viewing angle and onboard SD card for storage
  • Rechargeable battery and option to add a solar panel for non-stop power

Cons:

  • Video quality is only 1080p, not as high as other models on the market
  • Limited night vision range compared to other models
  • No facial recognition or advanced AI features for more personalized security tracking

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Reolink Argus 2 is the best security camera that notifies and sends text messages to your phone for both indoor and outdoor use. Its advanced features, including push notifications, email alerts, sound warnings, two-way audio, rechargeable battery, and solar panel option, make it an excellent investment for home security.

With its weatherproof design, wide viewing angle, and onboard storage options, it is an ideal standalone security camera. Therefore, if you are looking for a reliable and affordable security camera that can notify and send text messages to your phone, the Reolink Argus 2 is the best option.

4. Arlo Ultra 4K UHD wire-free Security Camera System

Arlo Ultra - 4K UHD Wire-Free Security 2 Camera System | Indoor/Outdoor with Color Night Vision, 180° View, 2-Way Audio, Spotlight, Siren | Compatible with Alexa and HomeKit | (VMS5240) (Renewed)

The Arlo Ultra 4K UHD wire-free Security Camera System is the best security camera that notifies and sends text messages to your phone for several reasons. It is an indoor/outdoor camera with a 180° field of view, which ensures that every corner of your home or property is covered.

It also has a 4K video resolution, which is the highest resolution to come out of the Arlo lineup, providing crystal clear footage with an onboard, motion-activated spotlight, and colored night mode. This feature ensures that you can see everything that is happening, even in low-light conditions.

Moreover, the Arlo Ultra also has smart tracking and auto-zoom features, which help you monitor high-risk areas and provide extra clarity on the people coming in and out of the frame. The camera is also wireless and powered by a quick-release battery pack, which can last up to 2-3 months before needing to be charged. This makes it very flexible to use and easy to install.

Arlo Ultra - 4K UHD Wire-Free Security 2 Camera System | Indoor/Outdoor with Color Night Vision, 180° View, 2-Way Audio, Spotlight, Siren | Compatible with Alexa and HomeKit | (VMS5240) (Renewed)

Lastly, the Arlo Ultra also includes 1 year of Arlo Smart Premier service and rolling 30-day cloud recordings for up to 10 cameras. This means that you can store and access your footage from anywhere, at any time, and get notifications and alerts on your phone whenever there is any motion or sound detected.

Pros of Arlo Ultra 4K UHD wire-free Security Camera System:

  • Advanced video and audio quality
  • Wider, panoramic view with enhanced, color night vision
  • Integrated spotlight that lights up the night or helps to ward off unwanted visitors
  • Advanced noise canceling technology that minimizes background noise for crystal clear, two-way conversations
  • Includes 1 year of Arlo Smart Premier service and rolling 30-day cloud recordings (up to 10 cameras)

Cons of Arlo Ultra 4K UHD wire-free Security Camera System:

  • High price compared to other smart security camera options on the market
  • May not be necessary for those who do not require a 4K video resolution
  • May not be the best choice for those on a budget

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In summary, the Arlo Ultra 4K UHD wire-free Security Camera System is the best security camera that notifies and sends text messages to your phone because of its high-quality video resolution, smart tracking and auto-zoom features, flexible use, and cloud recording service.

It provides the ultimate peace of mind and ensures that you can always keep an eye on your home or property, no matter where you are. Hence, it is a great investment for anyone who wants to enhance their home security system.

5. Reolink Argus 3 with Solar panel: Best solar-powered

REOLINK 4MP Solar Security Cameras Wireless Outdoor, Argus 3 Pro+Solar Panel with 2K Color Night Vision, 2.4/5GHz WiFi, Human/Vehicle Detection, Battery Powered Home Security Camera, No Hub Needed

The Reolink Argus 3 with Solar panel is the best solar-powered security camera that notifies and sends text messages to your phone. With its built-in PIR motion sensor, you can receive real-time alerts when motion is detected, including security camera push notifications, email alerts, and a siren.

As well, the camera comes with a rechargeable battery, and you can add the Reolink solar panel (sold separately) to provide non-stop power for the camera. This means that you don’t need to change the batteries frequently at extra expense.

Moreover, the camera is IP65-certified weatherproof, making it perfect for outdoor use to monitor who is at the doorway and talk to the visitor via the two-way audio feature. With its wide viewing angle and onboard storage options, it is also an ideal choice as a standalone security camera with cell phone alerts.

REOLINK 4MP Solar Security Cameras Wireless Outdoor, Argus 3 Pro+Solar Panel with 2K Color Night Vision, 2.4/5GHz WiFi, Human/Vehicle Detection, Battery Powered Home Security Camera, No Hub Needed

The Reolink Argus 3 also offers excellent video quality, affordably priced solar panels, and numerous mounting options. Although it does not have the motion zones or interchangeable batteries of competitors like Arlo Pro 4 and Ring Stick Up Cam Battery, its benefits make up for them in spades.

Pros:

  • Excellent video quality
  • Affordable solar add-on
  • Works indoors and outdoors
  • Easy installation with multiple mounting options
  • Real-time motion detection alerts
  • IP65 certified weatherproof
  • Two-way audio feature
  • Onboard storage options

Cons:

  • Relatively narrow field of view
  • No removable battery
  • No motion zones

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In conclusion, the Reolink Argus 3 with Solar panel is the best solar-powered security camera that provides reliable security for your home or business. With its real-time alerts, rechargeable battery, and solar panel options, you can have peace of mind knowing that your property is protected around the clock.

With its 2K video resolution, excellent video quality, bright spotlight, and microSD video storage, it offers cloud and local storage options. You can receive notifications and text messages on your phone, and it is compatible with smart home platforms like Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.

Its weatherproof design and two-way audio feature make it perfect for outdoor use, while its excellent video quality and easy mounting options make it a great choice for indoor use as well.

Therefore, if you want a high-quality security camera that notifies and sends text messages to your phone, the Reolink Argus 3 with Solar panel is the best choice.

How to Choose Security Cameras with Phone Push Notifications

Two-Way Audio

It’s important to choose a security camera with two-way audio and phone push notifications to stay connected with your home and loved ones, even when you’re away. By considering factors such as audio quality, range, and ease of use, you can choose a camera that meets your needs and provides peace of mind.

Network Connectivity

When choosing security cameras that notify your phone, network connectivity is crucial to ensure seamless push notification delivery.

To evaluate network connectivity, consider the following factors:

  1. Wi-Fi compatibility: Most security cameras connect to your home network using Wi-Fi, so make sure that your camera is compatible with your Wi-Fi network.
  2. Bandwidth requirements: Security cameras can use a lot of bandwidth, especially when streaming live video or storing footage in the cloud. Check your internet data usage cap, and verify that your router can handle the extra devices and output.
  3. Signal strength: A strong Wi-Fi signal is essential for reliable push notification delivery. Consider using Wi-Fi mesh networking kits to solve the problem of bad Wi-Fi in large homes, complicated floor plans, and troublesome dead zones.

Smart Motion Detection

When choosing security cameras with phone push notifications based on smart motion detection, it is important to look for cameras that offer customizable alerts and person detection. These features will allow you to tailor the notifications to your specific needs and avoid unnecessary alerts.

As well, make sure the cameras have a reliable mobile app that allows for easy control and live viewing. Look for cameras with 2-way audio and real-time view capabilities, as well as compatibility with smart home devices like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. Finally, consider factors such as image quality, storage options, and customer support when making your decision.

Night Vision

Night vision is an essential feature of security cameras, especially for those used outdoors, as it provides round-the-clock surveillance. When choosing a security camera with night vision, it is important to look for key features such as the range of vision, the quality of the image produced, and the type of infrared technology used.

The range of vision should be long enough to cover the area you want to monitor. The quality of the image produced should be at least 1080p to 4K Ultra HD resolution to ensure that details are captured clearly. Infrared technology is also important, as it determines how well the camera can see in low-light conditions.

Smart Camera App with Push Notifications

With a smart camera app, you can enable or disable IP camera motion detection push notifications to your phone, adjust motion detection sensitivity, and disarm motion detection. It is important to buy an IP camera with text notifications via a user-friendly and intuitive IP camera app, especially if you are not a tech-savvy person.

Remote Viewing

Remote viewing is an essential feature for security cameras with phone push notifications, as it allows you to monitor your home or business from anywhere. With remote viewing, you can access your camera’s live stream and recorded footage from your smartphone, tablet, or PC, giving you peace of mind and the ability to act quickly if an alert is triggered.

Storage

Storage plays a crucial role in security cameras, especially when it comes to receiving push notifications on your phone. Without proper storage, you may miss out on important events that occur in or around your home.

  1. Cloud storage: If you opt for a security camera with cloud storage, you can receive push notifications on your phone whenever motion or sound is detected. The footage is stored remotely on a server, which means you can access it from anywhere with an internet connection. Cloud storage also ensures that your footage is safe and secure, even if your camera is stolen or damaged.
  2. Local storage: With local storage, the footage is saved directly to your camera or a memory card. You can set up your camera to send push notifications to your phone whenever it detects motion or sound. However, local storage may not be as secure as cloud storage, as the footage can be lost if your camera is stolen or damaged.
  3. Hybrid storage: Some security cameras offer both cloud and local storage options. This means that you can receive push notifications on your phone and also have a backup of your footage stored locally. Hybrid storage is a great option for those who want the convenience of cloud storage and the added security of local storage.
  4. Storage capacity: When considering storage options for security cameras with phone push notifications, it’s important to consider the storage capacity. Some cameras come with limited storage capacity, while others offer expandable storage options. Make sure to choose a camera with enough storage to meet your needs, especially if you plan to store footage for an extended period.

Power Source

Understanding the power source of security cameras is crucial when it comes to receiving phone push notifications. Different power sources have their benefits and limitations, which can affect the reliability of notifications.

Wired cameras:

These cameras are powered by a direct electrical connection to a power source. The benefit of this is that they don’t require any battery replacements or recharging, and the power source is consistent, so there is no risk of the camera losing power unexpectedly.

However, the downside is that they require professional installation and are not as flexible as a battery or solar-powered options. They are also vulnerable to power outages, which can disrupt phone push notifications.

Battery-powered cameras:

These cameras are powered by replaceable batteries. The benefit of this is that they are easy to install, flexible, and can be placed anywhere without the need for a power source.

However, the downside is that the batteries need to be replaced regularly, and if they run out of power, the camera will stop working, resulting in missed notifications.

Solar-powered cameras:

These cameras are powered by solar panels that convert sunlight into electrical energy. The benefit of this is that they are eco-friendly and cost-effective in the long run, as they do not require battery replacements or recharging. They are also flexible and can be placed anywhere without the need for a power source.

However, the downside is that their effectiveness depends on the amount of sunlight available, which can vary depending on the region and weather. They also require proper installation and maintenance to ensure they are angled and tilted correctly to maximize sunlight absorption.

In terms of receiving phone push notifications, the best power source for security cameras is wired cameras. They provide a consistent power source, ensuring that the camera does not lose power unexpectedly, resulting in missed notifications.

However, if wired cameras are not an option, then battery-powered cameras are a good alternative, as long as the batteries are replaced regularly to prevent power outages. Solar-powered cameras are also an option, but their effectiveness depends on the region’s sunlight availability and weather conditions.

Smart Home Integration

When choosing security cameras with phone push notifications, it is important to consider smart home integration as it allows for seamless control and automation of your home security.

Factors to consider when selecting a security camera that can be integrated with your smart home system include compatibility with your preferred smart home ecosystem such as Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, the ability to command the camera with your voice, and the option to link the camera with other smart home devices to create home automation.

Having a security camera that works with your smart home devices allows for convenience, live video and audio monitoring from anywhere, instant alerts on your phone when motion is detected, and clearer details and colors in video footage.

How to receive Push Notifications from security cameras

Receiving push notifications from security cameras is crucial for home security. It allows you to stay informed of any unusual activity in and around your home. To receive push notifications from your security camera, you need to download an IP camera App to your Android or iPhone. After that, you can follow these steps:

  1. Set up your security camera and make sure it is connected to the network.
  2. Enable “Motion Detection” and “Push Notifications” in the camera settings.
  3. Check if your phone and camera can access the network.
  4. Allow the IP camera App to send you push notifications on your phone.
  5. Test with another phone to see if you can receive push notifications.
  6. Restart your router or switch to another WiFi if the router fails to connect with the push notification server.
  7. Update the firmware and camera software to the latest version.
  8. Position the camera properly, avoiding placing it behind glass or windows.

By following these steps, you can receive instant push notifications when motion is detected by your security camera. It is important to choose an IP camera with a free, user-friendly, and intuitive App to receive push notifications.

Conclusion

If you want to be able to check your house remotely, security cameras with text message alerts can alert you if anything changes on your property and they won’t cost an arm and a leg. Here, we have listed the best options out there right now that will allow you to get notifications on your phone without having to pay monthly fees.

FAQ

What is Push Notification in a Security Camera?

Push notifications in the context of security cameras refer to real-time alerts sent to a user’s mobile device when motion or other events are detected by the camera. The benefits of push notifications for security cameras include instant notification of potential threats or suspicious activity, remote monitoring of the camera feed, and the ability to quickly respond to emergencies.

Can I Receive IP Security Camera Push Notifications When My Phone Is Asleep or the App Is in the Background?

The answer to this question is that it depends on the phone and the IP camera App with push notifications that are being used. Some phone manufacturers do not support this feature, which means that you may fail to receive IP camera motion detection push notifications if your phone is asleep or the App is not running nonstop. However, there are some IP camera Apps like Reolink that can still send security camera push notifications to your phone even when it is asleep or the App is not running nonstop.

Does Connecting Security Cameras to Cell Phones offer more protection?

Yes, it does. Connecting your security cameras to your cell phone can be a game changer when it comes to home security. Here are some advantages of receiving notifications on your phone from your security cameras: instant alerts in real-time, motion-triggered recording, and the ability to watch live footage.