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Not every indoor security camera makes a good nanny cam. In 2025, the best options emphasize visible privacy controls (mechanical shutters), higher resolution (2K–4K), on‑device AI that reduces false alerts, dependable local recording options, and streamlined apps. Core features like two‑way audio, night vision, motion alerts, and secure accounts are still table stakes. Look for privacy features such as Arlo’s automated Privacy Shield, Ring’s Manual Privacy Cover, or a full privacy mode as on Tapo, and consider local recording (e.g., Eufy S350 microSD) if you want to minimize subscriptions. For connectivity, plan adequate upload bandwidth per camera—roughly 2–4 Mbps for 1080p and more for 2K/4K—and modern Wi‑Fi security (WPA2/WPA3) per guidance from Google Nest, Ring, and the Wi‑Fi Alliance.
The 3 Best Nanny Cams
- Eufy Security Indoor Cam S350: Best overall coverage and local 24/7 recording
- Arlo Essential Indoor Camera (2nd Gen, 2K): Best for a physical, automated privacy shield
- Google Nest Cam (wired, 2nd gen): Best for polished Google Home alerts and cloud simplicity
The Best Nanny Cams: Summed Up
| Price | Field of View | Livestream capabilities | |
| Blink XT2 — updated pick: Eufy Indoor Cam S350 | $129–$149 typical (S350) | Pan 350° / Tilt 70° (S350) | Yes (S350 supports live view) |
| Nest IQ — updated pick: Nest Cam (wired, 2nd gen) | About $99 | Wide fixed view (1080p HDR) | Yes |
| Vivint Ping — updated pick: Arlo Essential Indoor (2nd Gen, 2K) | $39–$59 typical (Arlo 2K) | Wide fixed view (2K HDR) | Yes |
*Pricing/specs checked via official product pages in 2025; note that overall consumer prices are ~20% higher than 2020 levels per BLS CPI.
Blink XT2
Pricing
- Discontinued/legacy model. Modern alternatives: Eufy S350 typically $129–$149; Arlo Essential Indoor (2nd Gen, 2K) typically $39–$59; Nest Cam (wired, 2nd gen) about $99. Context: many categories are ~20%+ higher than 2020 due to inflation (CPI).
The Blink XT2 was a compact battery camera for its time, but newer picks add critical nanny‑cam upgrades: higher resolution and better optics (2K–4K), on‑device AI for faster and more relevant alerts, and visible privacy controls so caregivers can see when recording is off. For a modern, fee‑light setup with whole‑room coverage and local 24/7 recording, the Eufy Security Indoor Cam S350 stands out with dual lenses (4K wide + 2K telephoto), 8× hybrid zoom, and pan/tilt (350°/70°) plus microSD support and optional cloud. If you want a clear indicator when the camera is off, consider the Arlo Essential Indoor (2nd Gen, 2K) with its automated Privacy Shield, or Tapo C225 with a physical privacy mode.
- 2K–4K video and HDR for clearer faces and details (Eufy S350; Arlo 2K)
- On‑device AI to cut false alerts and speed notifications (Eufy, Tapo)
- Local microSD recording options with optional cloud plans (Eufy, Wyze v4, Tapo)
- Visible privacy controls (mechanical shutters/covers) so caregivers know when recording is paused (Arlo Privacy Shield; Ring Manual Privacy Cover)
Recent consumer review themes highlight app reliability and subscription trade‑offs: cloud‑only ecosystems can trigger subscription frustration, while local‑first models reduce ongoing costs. When weighing reviews, prioritize recent, verified feedback and cross‑check across platforms—major platforms report removing large volumes of fake reviews (Google blocked 170M+ policy‑violating reviews in one year; Apple stopped 153M+ fraudulent ratings/reviews) (Google; Apple).
Compatibility
Because Blink is an Amazon company, this camera is designed for use with Amazon Echo for voice control. The Blink XT2 requires a stable home Wi‑Fi network. For modern cams, plan per‑camera upload of roughly 2–4 Mbps for 1080p and more for 2K/4K or continuous recording; see Nest bandwidth guidance and Ring’s recommendations. Most indoor cams connect on 2.4 GHz (many are dual‑band 2.4/5 GHz); use WPA2 or WPA3 Wi‑Fi security (WPA3 overview). Matter does not yet define a camera device type (CSA Matter 1.4).
Installation
The XT2 was a DIY, battery‑powered camera that blended into décor. Today’s top alternatives are also DIY: plug in (or pan/tilt on a shelf), connect with the vendor app, add a microSD card if supported, and schedule privacy modes. Pan/tilt models like the Eufy S350 can cover large play areas without multiple cameras.
Nest Cam IQ Indoor
Pricing
- Legacy model. Current Google pick: Google Nest Cam (wired, 2nd gen) at about $99 on the Google Store.
The Nest Cam (wired, 2nd gen) emphasizes polished Google Home integration with on‑device smarts that deliver free intelligent alerts (person/animal/vehicle) and a 3‑hour cloud event history included. Nest Aware adds longer history and Familiar Face Detection. Nest opts for cloud reliability rather than local microSD recording—ideal if you prefer cloud‑only workflows (product page).
- 1080p HDR video with a wide room view
- Free intelligent alerts and activity zones; 3‑hour cloud event history included (Nest Cam wired)
- Longer retention and Familiar Face Detection with a Nest Aware plan
- Account protections and privacy controls in the Google Home app
Compatibility
Because Nest was developed by Google, the Nest Cam (wired, 2nd gen) works natively with Google Home for voice control and automations. This camera requires sufficient upstream bandwidth; plan a few Mbps per camera and more for higher settings or multiple devices. To use the Google Home app for monitoring and control, you need supported mobile platforms or a web browser. Note: Cameras are not yet part of the Matter device library (CSA).
Installation
Nest Cam (wired, 2nd gen) plugs into a wall outlet and includes hardware for easy DIY setup. After pairing in Google Home, configure activity and privacy zones, retention, and notification preferences.
Vivint Ping Camera
Pricing
- Vivint pricing varies by monitored system; the Ping camera is a legacy model. DIY alternatives with privacy shutters include Arlo Essential Indoor (2nd Gen, 2K) ($39–$59 typical) and Ring Indoor Cam (2nd Gen) (commonly under $70), while pan/tilt privacy‑first options include Tapo C225.
The Vivint Ping Camera was known for easy two‑way talk and one‑touch callouts. Today, mainstream stand‑alone alternatives add visible privacy covers/shields and smarter on‑device alerts—consider Arlo Essential Indoor (2nd Gen, 2K) for its automated Privacy Shield, or the pan/tilt TP‑Link Tapo C225 for a full physical privacy mode. For minimal subscriptions plus 24/7 local recording, the Eufy S350 is a strong pick.
- Two‑way audio for quick check‑ins
- Manual or automated privacy covers/shields so caregivers can see when recording is off (Arlo; Ring; Tapo)
- On‑device AI for person/pet detection and more relevant alerts
- Local microSD recording on many models (brand‑dependent) and optional cloud history plans
Compatibility
Vivint’s Smart Home products integrate with Amazon Echo and Google Home. The Ping Camera requires a slightly slower upload speed (around 1.5 Mbps). For modern cams, plan for a few Mbps of upload per camera depending on resolution and whether you use continuous recording (Nest bandwidth guidance; Ring recommendations). Use WPA2/WPA3 network security (Wi‑Fi Alliance), and note that the Matter standard does not yet include cameras (CSA).
Installation
The only drawback to the Vivint Ping Camera is that it requires professional installation. If you prefer DIY, most current stand‑alone indoor cams are plug‑in with app‑guided setup. Enable multi‑factor authentication, keep firmware updated, and set retention limits—FTC enforcement actions underscore the importance of strong access controls (FTC Ring settlement).
How We Chose the Best Nanny Cams
We prioritized cameras that combine dependable motion‑triggered alerts and two‑way audio with 2025 must‑haves: visible privacy controls (mechanical shutters/covers), on‑device AI for faster and more private detections, and flexible storage with local microSD options if you want to avoid subscriptions. We evaluated room coverage (wide fixed view vs. pan/tilt), app stability, and ecosystem fit (Google Home/Alexa). We also weighed connectivity needs (dual‑band Wi‑Fi, adequate upstream bandwidth) and modern Wi‑Fi security (WPA2/WPA3), referencing Wi‑Fi 7 capacity improvements and WPA3. For deeper privacy context across brands, consult independent reviews like Mozilla’s Privacy Not Included.
Nanny Cam FAQ
Should I hide my nanny cam?
Disclosing cameras is the safer path. Secret video is generally illegal in places where anyone has a reasonable expectation of privacy (bathrooms, changing areas, a live‑in nanny’s private bedroom) and may be criminal under state “video voyeurism” laws (NCSL overview; see also CA PC §647(j)). In common areas of your home, visible cameras are typically lawful, but disclose their presence in writing to reduce disputes, and avoid audio unless you have legally sufficient consent.
Do nanny cams need Wi‑Fi?
For live view, mobile notifications, or cloud storage, yes—plan for stable Wi‑Fi and enough upload bandwidth per camera. A practical 2025 rule of thumb: allocate ~2–4 Mbps per 1080p stream, higher for 2K/4K or continuous recording; see Nest and Ring guidance. Many modern models also offer local microSD recording and on‑device AI so you can keep more video on‑premises. Most connect on 2.4 GHz (some are dual‑band); use WPA2/WPA3 security (Wi‑Fi Alliance).
Do nanny cams have audio?
Many do, but audio recording is more legally restrictive than video. Several states require consent of all parties to record non‑public conversations (e.g., California PC §632; Massachusetts ch. 272, §99). If in doubt, mute the microphone or obtain explicit written all‑party consent. As a household employer, never place cameras in prohibited areas and provide clear written notice of camera locations and retention policies (NY Labor Law §203‑c).
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