In this article, I will break down a series of cameras that work well with SmartThings by analyzing the characteristics that make them work so well with the program.
Most of my life has been spent working with cameras and camera equipment. I also have personal experience with SmartThings. That combination allowed me to break down different models that work with the technology and understand the traits that make them special.
I think the Arlo Pro 2 is the best SmartThings compatible camera because of its versatile design, simple setup, and excellent resolution during both the night and day.
Where many modern cameras sacrifice certain specs, the small Pro 2 gives you everything you need to monitor your home. It even works both in and outdoors. That, combined with the wireless setup, gives you the versatility to place it wherever your heart desires.
The below article will take a further look at the device, as well as several other top SmartThings compatible cameras, to help you figure out which one best suits your needs.
Contents
Top Cameras for SmartThings
This section will cover my picks for the best Smartthings cameras, giving an ample review of each one.
1. Arlo Pro 2
- Best for: Overall
- Key Features: Light and easy to use. 1080p resolution. Simple setup. Wide compatibility. Can set specific activity zones and utilizes a 3-second look back. 300 feet of sight.
- Video Capture Resolution: 1080p
- Dimensions: 4.53 x 5.98 x 2.95 inches
- Power Source: Battery
When it comes to SmartThings compatible cameras, the Arlo Pro 2 knocks it out of the park. The portable, completely wireless device captures high-quality video in 1080p and also comes with optional 24/7 continuous recording to make sure you never miss a thing.
A big bonus of this model is that there are no wires, which makes setup simple and cuts down on any annoying wiring hassles. You can put it just about anywhere or fit it wherever you need. Beyond the strong specs, it also has a 300-foot line of sight and is completely voice-operated.
Do note the newer versions don’t work with Smartthings, which some people might not like. Even so, the Pro 2 is so strong that it will deliver everything you want from a Smartthings compatible camera. It works with plenty of other popular hubs and programs as well.
2. Samsung SmartThings Indoor Camera
- Best for: Compatibility
- Key Features: No hub required for setup. 1080p HD 145-degree diagonal video. Integrated IR LED night vision. Two-way protection and excellent cloud storage.
- Video Capture Resolution: 1080p
- Dimensions: 3 x 3 x 4 inches
- Power Source: Outlet
Coming straight from Samsung itself, this indoor camera is a quality device that delivers exceptional HD video. On top of that, there’s plenty of cloud storage (via subscription) and it’s able to differentiate between objects and people thanks to the intelligent motion sensors.
Unlike many other models, this works directly with SmartThings. That means you do not need a hub. Rather, you just connect it to your Wi-Fi and you’re good to go. This is a perfect choice for users who don’t like to hassle with a lot of different objects when getting everything ready.
If there’s a downside to this device it’s that it has no true local storage. It’s an indoor model as well, meaning it’s not for those who want a true outdoor device. Even so, if you want a SmartThings camera for your home, it’s hard to get better specs or reliability than this.
3. Nest Cam
- Best for: Indoor
- Key Features: 24/7 live video with night vision. 130-degree wide angle view, HD resolution, and 8x zoom. Easy to install. App compatibility. 2-way audio.
- Video Capture Resolution: 1080p
- Dimensions: 2.8 x 2.8 x 4.5 inches
- Power Source: Corded Electric
Google’s Nest Cam is a high-tech indoor camera that recently became compatible with SmartThings. The compact device offers full surveillance at all times of the day thanks to the 1080p resolution, 130-degree wide angle view, and night vision capabilities.
Shooting 24/7, this device also comes with mobile alerts and notifications to let you know if there’s any activity. You also get 2-way audio and the device has two-factor authentication for extra security. It sets up in no time at all and comes with a great companion app.
It’s important to note the Nest is not battery operated. You need to plug it into an outlet. That’s not a huge deal because it is an indoor device, but it does limit where you can put it. It also runs hot, so make sure you keep it in a more open area where that won’t be a large problem.
4. Arlo Q
- Best for: Value
- Key Features: Instant alerts with 300 feet of sight. 24/7 live video. Free cloud recording and storage. 2-way audio with built-in mic. 130-degree field of view.
- Video Capture Resolution: 1080p
- Dimensions: 4.45 x 5.99 x 4.93 inches
- Power Source: AC
The Arlo Q is an excellent SmartThings camera for users who want to get the most bang for their buck. Not only does it come in at a lower price point than many other premium devices, it also offers full free cloud storage. That makes it a great way to cut down on subscription fees.
When it comes to specs, the Q also excels. The built-in mic and speaker offer full two-way communication and the 130-degree field of view means you won’t miss anything. It also has an incredibly impressive night vision that lets you keep track of your home even in total darkness.
This model’s only drawback is that, while it sees quite well, it can’t see that far. It has a pretty limited vision range compared to other models. It can also freeze from time to time, but that’s easy to fix simply by unplugging the Q and plugging it back in.
5. Ring Video Doorbell
- Best for: Functionality
- Key Features: 1080p HD video. Motion detection and audio privacy. Great Wi-Fi integration. Rechargeable battery. Excellent customer service.
- Video Capture Resolution: 1080p
- Dimensions: 5.1 x 2.4 x 1.1 inches
- Power Source: Battery
While not a true standalone camera, the Ring Video Doorbell is a great device that’s easily compatible with Samsung’s SmartThings. The powerful item allows you to hear, speak, or see anyone outside of your door from your mobile device in vibrant 1080p resolution.
It also comes with a rechargeable battery and has the ability to both view live video and take screenshots. Those who like having more control will also value the ability to customize the different commands and interactions within the device’s simple interface.
Ring also prides itself on having available and helpful customer service. If you have any issues, or if anything goes wrong, you’ll be able to fix it up right away. Just note this doesn’t have the best battery life, so you do want to plan ahead with charging. You may want a backup as well.
How to Choose a Camera for SmartThings
The following attributes are important to keep in mind when purchasing a camera that works with SmartThings.
Resolution
You always want your camera to deliver crystal clear images. That goes double if you’re getting a security device. When purchasing a Smartthings-compatible model you want to get the best image your budget allows. Higher quality does come at a higher price, but that’s often worth it.
Most high-end options will deliver 1080p resolution, while some dip a bit lower at 720p. Both of those are great and will provide a strong picture. Just be aware that better image quality requires a higher bandwidth that more quickly drains the camera’s battery.
Power Source
Also, note how your SmartThings device gets power. Some models use batteries or battery packs, but some also plug into the wall. Though an outlet plug doesn’t require any recharging, it does limit where you can place your camera. Pick what fits your space the best.
If you do go with a device that runs off of batteries, make sure it keeps its charge for a good amount of time. Some models last a week or two, while others can run for months. The longer charge tends to be better, but you can also supplement shorter charges with extra packs.
Accessories
Many of the cameras that work with SmartThings come with a wide range of their own accessories and add-ons. Such items go a long way towards increasing your device’s functionality and greatly expand what it’s able to do.
When picking out your camera, check what other items it might work with. Then, figure out what you want to use it for and how you want it to operate. Such questions will help you determine which accessories you want the most.
My Verdict
The Arlo Pro 2 gets my pick for the most well-rounded and functional SmartThings compatible camera. It’s a strong device that offers exceptional resolution and a wireless design that won’t get in your way. It takes minutes to put up. You can also freely move it around.
The Pro 2 is an incredibly versatile, strong, and compatible device that you can use in a myriad of different ways. If you value choices, high-tech cameras, or clear displays, this model checks all of those boxes with ease.
Yusuf Ismath
can you recommend a indoor cam that is smartthings hopefully with all features found in nest cam BUT without recording video footage to the cloud. if it can store in local storage like an SD card also that would be ok ?
Is it possible to turn off nest cam video recording and uploading to cloud and just view live ONLY ?