Are you looking for the best SmartThings camera? If so, you may want to consider checking its sensor, video resolution, and night vision technology. With these factors in mind, I’ve listed below my top products. You can continue reading below to learn about why they are essential.
Whether you live in a smart home or not, having a camera that is compatible with a smart system saves you precious time and money. It allows you to connect and control all your appliances or devices remotely via your phone.
In this article, we will discuss the best cameras for SmartThings, one of the best smart home hubs today. We will include each product’s pros and cons as well as its features.
And if you are curious which options will matter to you, read on below for a handy buying guide.
However, before we jump right into our top picks, we would first like to introduce SmartThings, its benefits, and situations where you will need it or not.
Without any further ado, let’s get on with the article!
What is Samsung SmartThings?
Samsung SmartThings is an electronic hub that allows you to connect multiple appliances and devices in your home. This way, you can remotely control them via an app, regardless if you are using a Samsung phone or an Apple iPhone.
Most smart devices, such as TV, refrigerator, and security cam, usually require you to operate in different apps. That kinda defeats the purpose of having smart equipment because instead of saving time, you spend more on switching back and forth to track your home.
However, a SmartThings compatible camera eliminates the need to download different apps. Instead, it connects all your home devices into a single hub and controls them through that same hub only. Thus, it offers convenience and improved functionality.
A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | |
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Editor’s Pick  |
| View On Amazon →Read Our Review |
Runner-Up  |
| View On Amazon →Read Our Review |
Best Budget  |
| View On Amazon →Read Our Review |
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| View On Amazon →Read Our Review |
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| View On Amazon →Read Our Review |
5 Best Cameras for SmartThings
After reviewing various articles and product reviews, we handpicked these five Smartthings compatible cameras. Each product offers Full HD resolution, night vision, motion detection, and two-way audio for an easier and more convenient living experience.
Google Nest Cam – Editor’s Pick
The Google Nest Cam is one of the best smart cameras for your home.
This SmartThings cam offers high-definition 1080p footage, even when shooting at night. This smart camera system also features 24/7 live video, suitable for security or surveillance purposes. Meanwhile, the 130-degree wide-angle lens allows you to see more of the scene.
The Google Next camera for SmartThings is also easy to use. Simply download the app and follow the instructions prompted on the screen.
Furthermore, this security camera has built-in Wi-Fi for a seamless connection with SmartThings, Nest, and other smart home apps or hubs. When paired with an advanced motion detection sensor, it will notify you in real-time if it spots any activity in the area. Plus, there is even an option to view your history within three hours of being inactive or away.
And if you are worried about neighbors or strangers snooping on your live camera feed, the Google Nest Cam uses industry-leading security. Feel free to enable the two-factor authentication to ensure that your cloud storage account is hidden and protected from hackers.
On top of all these benefits, this camera for SmartThings features two-way communication. The built-in microphone and speaker allow you to listen and speak to other people. One of the best ways to take advantage of this feature is to set up the camera near the play area or front door, so you can communicate with your kids or strangers if the need arises.
Most reviews for this product were positive. However, several users said it requires a monthly subscription to certain services in order to take full advantage of it. This subscription can be pretty expensive. It is also an indoor camera, meaning it might not have the same durability as outdoor devices.
Nevertheless, we think the Google Nest Cam is worth it for all its benefits. For this reason, we decided that it is the best SmartThings camera. It can make your smart home smarter, so it is more convenient to live in.
Pros:
- Full HD video with night vision and motion sensor
- 24/7 live feed
- Two-factor authentication to ensure account security
- Smart camera is compatible with SmartThings, Nest, and other smart home hubs
- Easy to use interface
Cons:
- Expensive monthly subscription fees
- This indoor camera cannot be used outside
Ring Spotlight Cam Mount – Runner Up
If you need a security camera outside your home, consider getting the Ring Spotlight Cam Mount.
The package includes weatherproof box covers and a wiring harness with a mounting nut. These accessories allow you to install the camera on a 4-inch round or rectangular weatherproof electrical box or any corner of your home. When mounted on an electrical box, you can enjoy non-stop power for 24/7 video in Full HD 1080p.
This video surveillance system also features a high-quality lens with a 140-degree horizontal and 78-degree vertical angle of view. As a result, this SmartThings cam can capture a wide scene, ideal for security and surveillance applications.
What’s more, the Ring Spotlight Cam allows you to preview the footage and local storage in real-time. There is even an option to activate motion alerts. Simply download the SmartThings app to connect this smart camera and trigger its built-in motion sensors. Plus, you can customize the activation zones to focus on the most vulnerable areas of your house.
The smart camera even has two-way talk communication to give you further convenience. Feel free to hear and talk to other people on your property from your phone through the built-in mic and speakers.
And speaking of communication, the Ring Cam can work with Alexa. You can launch an on-demand video or request to be alerted when motion is detected by giving voice commands.
There is also an auxiliary lighting feature and optional paid service called Ring Protect to improve your experience. The former allows you to connect lights on your home to the camera for convenience. The latter lets you review the footage that you missed when you are away or sleeping.
Finally, this camera for SmartThings includes lifetime theft protection. So if your camera gets stolen, you can expect the company to replace it for free.
Despite all these benefits, several users were disappointed with its lighting connectivity. The smart camera cannot control multiple lighting sources at once, rendering the auxiliary light feature pretty useless. Furthermore, there is an inconsistent motion detection—a few customers said it is too sensitive and detects all motion, while others said it misses multiple times.
The pros outweigh the cons, though.
We still recommend the Ring Spotlight Cam for keeping your home more connected and safer than before.
Pros:
- Full HD 1080p live view
- Durable design suitable for outdoor use
- Non-stop power when connected to an electrical box
- The camera is compatible with SmartThings and Alexa
- Lifetime theft protection ensures free replacement if your smart camera gets stolen
Cons:
- The auxiliary lighting feature is defective
- Motion detection sensor has inconsistent performance
Blink Mini – Best Budget Camera for SmartThings
Do you prefer a compact indoor camera for simple tasks, such as watching your kids? If so, the Blink Mini might meet your needs.
This plug-in security camera can record and show high-quality 1080p videos in live view. These make it easier to see people’s faces and other small details in the room. Plus, it also has a built-in infrared night vision for shooting in low-light situations.
Meanwhile, the motion detection sensor alerts you when the smart camera recognizes unfamiliar movement in your property. There is also an option to customize the areas where you feel like the most vulnerable against danger or theft. These places might be your kitchen, bedroom, or your baby’s playpen.
Moreover, this camera for SmartThings includes two-way audio features. It allows you to hear and speak to the people in other parts of your home via your phone.
On top of all these benefits, the Blink Mini can conveniently backup and sync your files in the cloud. You can store videos on the included Blink Subscription Plan (free trial) or locally using a USB flash drive (sold separately).
And if you are wondering about the controls and interface, this smart camera is easy to set up in a few minutes. Simply plug in the camera, connect to the Wi-Fi, and add it to SmartThings or Blink’s own app. You can even pair it with an Alexa-enabled device and use voice commands to operate the camera.
However, before buying this camera for SmartThings, it is essential to weigh the cons, too. First, the Blink Mini does not offer a continuous live view. Second, the native Blink app is missing key features, such as turning off the IR light.
With that said, the Blink Mini is still a great smart camera, especially for its price. We recommend it for those who do not need constant live streaming and advanced surveillance functions.
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight
- Budget-friendly smart camera
- Motion detection sensor with activity zone selection
- Easy to set up in minutes
- The smart camera offers SmartThings, native Blink app, and Alexa support
Cons:
- Plug-in type of camera
- The live view is not continuous
- Blink app lacks key features
Ring Floodlight Camera
If you liked the previous smart camera from Ring but need more emergency features, consider this next product.
The Ring Floodlight Camera features the same high-quality 1080p video resolution with infrared night vision. As a result, it ensures clear and detailed footage, even when shooting in low-light situations.
Meanwhile, the Live View function allows you to preview the scene and see other people in your home in real-time. If you wish to communicate with them, the two-way talk audio technology lets you do so. The built-in speaker offers crisp audio, while the microphone can record your voice and transmit it to the other person.
And like other smart cameras, this model includes a motion detection sensor. It can be programmed to notify you whenever it notices someone unfamiliar snooping around your property.
Furthermore, this camera for SmartThings has privacy features, such as customizable sensor detection and audio isolation. These enable you to focus only on what is relevant for you.
But besides the SmartThings compatibility, the Ring Floodlight Camera can also connect to Alexa-compatible devices. Thus, you can use voice commands to control the camera remotely.
However, what makes this smart camera truly different from the Ring Spotlight Cam is the package inclusions. It includes built-in floodlights, which flashes ultra-bright light during emergencies. There is also a remote-activated siren that you can activate anywhere from your phone, tablet, or even PC.
Despite these benefits, it is still essential to know the downsides of this product. First, the included camera mount has little range of motion. So if you wish to get a broader perspective, skip this smart cam and consider another one. Second, some users reported that the light easily runs out of power.
As you can see, though, the pros outweigh the cons.
For this reason, we included the Ring Floodlight Camera in this list of the best cameras for SmartThings.
Pros:
- 1080p video with night vision and live view
- Weatherproof smart camera ideal for outdoor use
- Built-in mount, floodlights, and siren for emergency situations
- Customizable privacy features to focus on what matters to you
- It is compatible with SmartThings and Alexa
Cons:
- The camera mount has little range of motion
- Some users said that the light runs out of power quickly
Arlo Pro 2
The last item on our list is the Arlo Pro 2.
This best-selling smart camera offers both wired and wire-free operation. That means you do not have to deal with the hassle of cords and wires. Instead, simply power the device using the included rechargeable battery. Once empty, you can plug it into an outlet. There is also an option to charge it via the Arlo Solar Panel (device sold separately).
The Arlo Pro 2 camera for SmartThings also offers 1080p video with night vision capability. Plus, it can record continuously 24/7, ideal for security and surveillance purposes. You can then view this footage in real-time in live view mode.
Have you ever wished to preview the scene before a triggered event? Well, this smart camera allows you to do so! It can capture the activity three seconds before you press that recording button. This setting is only available when plugged in and used inside your home.
Furthermore, this smart camera not only works with SmartThings, but it also supports Alexa, Echo Show, Fire TV, and Google Assistant. It can even detect these connections for up to 300 feet, suitable for remote use.
And speaking of detection, it has a built-in motion detection sensor. This feature can instantly notify you when someone unfamiliar comes near the camera and start recording for proof. Plus, it can be customized to recognize people and specific zones as well as contact emergency responders. This benefit will cost you extra, though, after the included free 1-month trial.
Another downside is the inconsistent battery performance. It prompts the camera to go offline randomly, which requires you to restart the device before recording again. Also, some users were disappointed with the poor customer service.
Nevertheless, we still think the Arlo Pro 2 is worth considering. It offers advanced features that can make your smart home smarter.
Pros:
- High-quality 1080p video with night vision
- 24/7 continuous video recording and live view
- A three-second look back function records the scene before a triggered event
- It works with multiple smart home hubs (Alexa, Echo Show, Fire TV, Google Assistant)
- Optional paid customized alerts for specific zone activity and emergency message
Cons:
- Poor customer service
- The camera randomly turns off
- Most expensive product on our list
How to Choose the Best SmartThings Compatible Camera
By now, you probably have an idea of the best security cameras for SmartThings. However, you might still face some difficulties choosing one over the other.
With that in mind, we also included the factors to consider when buying a camera for SmartThings.
Motion Detection Sensor
The motion detection sensor is among the most important considerations before buying a security camera. After all, the point of owning one is to minimize the risk of burglary and other crimes.
It is essential to buy a camera with an advanced motion detection sensor. It must notify you when a stranger enters your home. In some cases, it will also automatically record and save footage, which you can use as evidence later.
Video Resolution
Besides a motion detection sensor, video quality is another factor to consider when buying a camera for SmartThings. One way to check the quality of the footage is by reviewing the resolution specs.
Make sure to get a smart camera that can record at least HD 720p resolution for clear videos. Better yet, invest in one with Full HD 1080p capabilities. Higher-quality videos will make it easier to identify the person’s face or other small details within the frame.
Night Vision
If you intend to use the camera for 24/7 surveillance around your home, you might also need something with night vision.
This functionality gives you bright and clear videos at night. So if a burglary or theft happened, the smart camera would keep you one step ahead of the perpetrators.
Storage
A camera that allows you to sync or backup video clips on the cloud is also handy. It will make it easier to organize your files and access them instantly.
Besides cloud storage, you might also want to consider the local storage capacity. Make sure to know the type of memory card compatible with your smart camera. It is usually microSD cards, which are pretty easy to find and do not cost a fortune.
Two-way Audio Communication
Are you planning to place the smart camera near your kids or outside the main door? If so, consider having a two-way audio communication feature.
It allows you to receive and transmit audio through the camera. So whether you want to communicate with the stranger knocking outside your door or keep your kids from dangerous activities, this feature is worth considering.
Activity Zone
And speaking of kids, parents might want to consider having a smart camera with activity zone selection.
You can set up the camera in a specific “high-risk” area, such as the fireplace or kitchen. Then, you can command the device to notify you if your child is within that place.
This way, you will be aware of everything that is happening around your home. You can even order your kids to stay away from that dangerous area, ultimately keeping them safe.
Emergency Message
It will also be nice to own a smart camera that gives you instant access to messages in case of emergencies. Simply include the respondents or people you want to contact immediately on the app. Then, if a crisis occurs, the smart camera saves you time when asking for help and potentially saves your life as well.
Weather Resistance
If you want to mount and use your camera outside your home, you need to ensure that it can withstand various weather conditions.
So it is essential to buy a durable and weather-sealed smart camera. Thus, you can ensure that it will perform well, regardless if it is freezing outside or the sun is blazingly hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to set up a SmartThings camera?
If it is your first time using a SmartThings device, fret not if you don’t know how to use it. To help you out, we included the following steps on how to set up a SmartThings camera.
- First of all, make sure to turn on your smart camera.
- Download the SmartThings app on Google Play (for Android) or App Store (for Apple or iPhone users).
- Once finished, open the app and tap the Plus (+) icon to add a device.
- Tap By Device type, select Camera under devices/sensors, and then tap SmartThings.
- Select your smart camera from the list and tap Start.
- If prompted, select your desired Location or create a new one.
- Next, you can select a Room or create a new one.
- To connect the smart camera, scan the QR code as prompted. Or you can tap Add device manually, then enter the serial number.
- Once the smart camera successfully connects, it will produce a clicking sound. Voila! You can now operate the camera using the app.
If you still cannot connect the smart camera to the app, try the steps below to reset it.
- Press and hold the reset button on the camera.
- Once you see the blue light blinking three times, release the button.
- After it successfully connects to the app, the camera will produce a click.
Is there a monthly fee for SmartThings?
Before buying a SmartThings-compatible device, you are probably wondering if it has hidden charges.
Fortunately, SmartThings does not have a recurring monthly fee, and it is free to use. With that said, other devices and services that you want to connect to the SmartThings hub might require additional fees.
What is the best camera for SmartThings?
The best camera for SmartThings will depend on your needs, preferences, and budget. There is no one camera that fits all. You always have to consider several factors, such as the purpose or the area where you want to mount the camera, among other considerations.
With that in mind, we tried to include different types of cameras for SmartThings to suit various users. Hopefully, you find what you are looking for in this article.
Conclusion
That concludes this list of the best camera for SmartThings! We highly recommend every product in this article.
But if we only have to suggest one, it would be the Google Nest Cam. It offers Full HD video, night vision, and 24/7 continuous live feed. There are also advanced smart features, such as two-way audio, motion detection sensor, and two-factor authentication for further convenience and security. And if you need more functions, it comes with subscriptions to other services for the ultimate experience.
