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.
'If you don't address demand, you don't address the problem' Police are only addressing the supply, but demand is what fuels the illicit sex trade, experts say. Newsday political reporter Bahar Ostadan has the story.
'If you don't address demand, you don't address the problem' Police are only addressing the supply, but demand is what fuels the illicit sex trade, experts say. Newsday political reporter Bahar Ostadan has the story.
