Rating security cameras for the home
Cnet has picked Belkin NetCam HD+ Wi-Fi Camera as one of the best do-it-yourself security cams. Credit: CBS Interactive
Whether you're serious about security or simply want to spy on a mischievous pet, these clever cameras are vying for a spot in your home.
Icontrol Networks Piper NV
CNET RATING (out of 5)
4.5 stars (outstanding)
THE GOOD. From setup to shutdown, Icontrol Networks' $269 Piper NV all-in-one security device was an absolute delight to use.
THE BAD. You'll spend more upfront than some other stand-alone security options. It doesn't have an IFTTT channel or offer partnerships with third-party brands beyond its basic Z-Wave integrations.
THE COST. $199
BOTTOM LINE. For easy, seamless, do-it-yourself home security and automation integration, look no further than the Piper NV.
Nest Cam
CNET RATING (out of 5)
4.5 stars (outstanding)
THE GOOD. Nest Cam's high-resolution video, magnetic base, pivoting stand and updated app make this an improvement over many other DIY cameras.
THE BAD. This is still just a webcam at heart. While it does offer security features like opt-in motion and sound alerts, you can only receive one notification every 30 minutes.
THE COST. $199 to $219.99 (512 GB)
BOTTOM LINE. Budding DIYers searching for a high-resolution live streaming camera can't do better than Nest Cam.
Dropcam Pro
CNET RATING (out of 5)
4 stars (excellent)
THE GOOD. It's easy to use and set up, and you can view a remote video feed over the Internet or on your iOS or Android mobile device. The new zoom/enhance feature works well; there is no service fee for basic live viewing; and the addition of Bluetooth makes setup easy.
THE BAD. You may experience some lag with the video and audio.
THE COST. $179 to $235
BOTTOM LINE. A dramatic improvement on the company's previous generation wireless home-monitoring camera.
Belkin NetCam HD+ Wi-Fi Camera
CNET RATING (out of 5)
4 stars (excellent)
THE GOOD. This comparatively inexpensive IP camera has a lot of high-end features including night vision and two-way talk. It's also compatible with Belkin WeMo products.
THE BAD. You need to pay the $10 monthly or $100 yearly fee to store video clips and receive motion-related push notifications, and you are dependent on the Belkin servers.
THE COST. $114.98
BOTTOM LINE. Belkin's NetCam HD+ is a fantastic option for budget-minded DIY security enthusiasts.
The following CNET staff contributed to this story: executive editor David Carnoy, associate editor Megan Wollerton and senior editor Laura K. Cucullu. For more reviews of personal technology products, visit cnet.com.
©2015 CBS Interactive Inc., a CBS Company. All rights reserved. Used by permission.
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