By Tom May
published
Simple to set up and difficult for bad actors to spot, these are the best light bulb security cameras on sale today

The best light bulb security cameras have become increasingly popular in recent years as they offer a discreet and ultra-convenient way to monitor your home, office or studio.
These clever devices look like a regular light bulb, but come equipped with a camera that captures high-quality video footage. That offers a couple of key benefits. Firstly, they probably won't be noticed by bad actors. And secondly, they'll plug into a light fitting, so you won't need any extra wiring. Some of the best light bulb security cameras also offer additional features such as motion detection, night vision, and two-way audio communication.
In this article, we will explore some of the best light bulb security cameras available in the market, their standout features, and what makes each model different from the others. So whether you're looking to keep an eye on your home while you are away or want to monitor your studio during off-hours, we'll help you find the perfect light bulb security camera to fit your needs.
Best light bulb cameras in 2023
Why you can trust Digital Camera World Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out how we test.
1. Galyou Light Bulb Camera
The best light bulb camera for most people
Specifications
Picture resolution: 2K
WiFi: 2.4GHz
Storage: Card (up to 128GB) or cloud options, sold separately
Reasons to buy
+ Easy to install 2K resolution Motion tracking
Reasons to avoid
- Doesn't support 5GHz
We'll keep things simple: the Galayou 360 is the best light bulb security camera on the market today.
Why? Well, firstly, it's easy to install. Just screw it into a normal light socket, download the free Wansview Cloud app, and follow the app to connect to your WiFi network. It offers a high-resolution 2K picture. That means you'll get enough image quality detail to recognize faces and other details of anyone up to no good in your home. And it comes with six floodlights and six IR lights, so you'll get clear images even in complete darkness.
It comes with motion-tracking technology, allowing it to automatically detect and track anything in its field of view (it boasts a 355° pan and 65° tilt range). It can send motion detection alerts to your phone. You also get an alarm and white light that you can use to scare away intruders. And it supports 24/7 video recording to an SD card up to 128GB (sold separately). If you prefer, there's a cloud storage service you can subscribe to.
If you wish, you can control the camera with your voice, using Alexa or Google Assistant. And finally, you can use it to talk with anyone in your home, whether that be intruders or more friendly faces such as couriers or babysitters.
In short, this light bulb security camera offers pretty much everything you need, and all at a very affordable price. Note, though, that it's not waterproof, and it only works with 2.4Ghz WiFi: 5Ghz WiFi is not supported.
2. RakeBlue Light Bulb Camera
The best light bulb security camera for 5GHz WiFI networks
Specifications
Picture resolution: 1080p
WiFi: 2.4GHz and 5GHz
Storage: Free cloud storage for 18 months
Reasons to buy
+ 5GHz support 18 months' free cloud storage Video encyption
Reasons to avoid
- Not 2K
If you have a 5GHz network then the first entry on our list won't be any good for you. In which case, we recommend the Rakeblue Light Bulb Camera, which supports both 2.4Ghz and 5GHz WiFi networks.
This camera can automatically sense indoor and outdoor panorama tracking, offers 350° pan and 90° tilt, sends motion-triggered alerts to your phone, and allows you to share footage with up to eight family members. You also get two-way audio, infra-red night vision and LED full color night vision.
Video is encrypted. And this is the only camera on our list where you don't have to pay for anything storage as you get free cloud storage for the first 18 months with a two-day cycle.
3. Amaryllo Zeus Lightbulb Camera
The best light bulb security camera for advanced features
Specifications
Picture resolution: 1080p
WiFi: 2.4GHz
Storage: Requires cloud subscription
Reasons to buy
+ 360 auto tracking Facial recognition Heat map tech
Reasons to avoid
- Requires cloud for storage Not 2K
The Amaryllo Zeus Lightbulb Camera costs a lot more than the others on this list, but you really do get a lot of premium features for your money.
For a start, Zeus is capable of auto-tracking moving objects throughout the 360 degrees, so you won't have to worry blind spots. It harnesses facial recognition to recognize family members and friends in seconds. It uses cloud intelligence technology to spot fire hazards and dispatch fire warning alerts via push notifications on the mobile app. And it can detect vehicles up to 75 feet away, so you can be notified immediately whenever a vehicle approaches your driveway.
You can also benefit from advanced heat map technology, to recreate the movements of intruders are your home. Pet detection is available on certain plans. This proactive camera can also greet you with a friendly 'Hello' or 'Good Afternoon' and announce hourly time.Finally, if you're a business, or just someone who's paranoid about getting your data stolen, you'll also be pleased to know 256-bit military grade encryption is incorporated. Note, however, that there's no SD card option so if you want to save your footage, you'll need to pay for cloud storage.
4. WooLink Light Bulb Camera
The best value light bulb camera
Specifications
Picture resolution: 1080p
WiFi: 2.4GHz
Storage: Card (up to 128GB) or cloud options, sold separately
Reasons to buy
+ Low price Range of features
Reasons to avoid
- Not 2K There are cheaper
Watching the pennies? The WooLink Light Bulb Camera is lower priced than the options listed above, and yet still has a lot to offer. You get Full HD 1080p resolution, motion detection, auto tracking, a pan and tilt feature providing coverage of 355° and 90° respectively, an infrared night mode, an alarm, a two-way voice intercom and recording to an SD card (sold separately).
This camera is easy to install by plugging it into a light fitting, downloading an app, and connecting up to your Wi-Fi. And each camera can share information with up to eight people in total, and up to four phones simultaneously.
5. Jennov Light Bulb Security Camera
2K resolution but no auto tracking
Specifications
Picture resolution: 2K
WiFi: 2.4GHz
Storage: Card (up to 128GB) or cloud options, sold separately
Reasons to buy
+ 2K resolution Floodlight alarm
Reasons to avoid
- No auto tracking No 5GHz WiFi support
Here's another light bulb security camera that offers 2K resolution (2048 x 1536 pixels) for exceptional picture detail. You also get two-way audio, a sound and light alarm, motion detection, message alerts and SD card storage of up to 128GB (not included) along with cloud storage options. Coverage spans 355° degrees and 120° rotation.
On the downside, it only supports the 2.4GHz WIFI network, not 5GHz, and you won't get auto-tracking. But as long as those aren't deal breakers, there's a lot to like here for a quite reasonable price.
6. Wiresdom WiFi light bulb camera
The best cheap light bulb security camera
Specifications
Picture resolution: 1080p
WiFi: 2.4GHz
Card storage: Card (up to 128GB) or cloud options, sold separately
Reasons to buy
+ Low price Does the job
Reasons to avoid
- Instructions not clear Not 2K
This light bulb security camera is currently available at a low price, but you still get plenty of bang for your buck. This includes a 1080p high-definition resolution, providing clear and smooth real-time video and a 360-degree panoramic view. The infrared fill light provides high-definition black and white images even in complete darkness. Plus, when someone enters the security area, the camera immediately converts to strong white light, helping scare off intruders and providing high-definition color images to both.
There's a two-way voice intercom and a smart tracking function triggered by motion, which automatically keeps an eye on anyone who walks into view (pan 355°, tilt 90°). Again though, note that only 2.4GHz WiFi is not supported, not 5Ghz. It's also worth noting that the instructions aren't particularly clear.
7. Kopfus WiFi Light Bulb Camera
Another good cheap light bulb camera option
Specifications
Picture resolution: 1080p
WiFi: 2.4GHz
Storage: Card (up to 128GB) or cloud options, sold separately
Reasons to buy
+ Low price Does the job
Reasons to avoid
- Doesn't support 5GHz WiFi Lacks advanced features
At time of writing, this is the cheapest light bulb security camera we can recommend. The Kopfus WiFi Light Bulb Camera offers 1080p resolution, a 360 degree fisheye lens, and motion detection. There are three white LED lights and three infrared lights, so even at night you still can get clear, colorful images.
Recording is to an SD card (sold separately) or a cloud storage subscription service. And while it lacks some of the advanced features of pricier devices, it is very cheap. Note, though, that this bulb camera only supports the 2.4GHz WiFi connection, and not 5GHz.
What if your lights have a bayonet fitting?
All of the lightbulb security cameras in this guide are designed for E27 type screw-in light sockets. If you are in an area where bayonet fittings are more common, you can either change the light fitting - or you can use a cheap B22 to E27 adapter.
Do light bulb cameras have to be ceiling mounted?
No. You can use these lightbulb cameras in wall-mounted sockets and in table lamps too.
Read more security camera guides:
Best outdoor security cameras
Best floodlight security cameras
Best 360-degree security cameras
Best PTZ cameras
Best indoor security cameras
Best NVRs
Best HomeKit cameras
Best nanny cameras
Blink v Ring
Get the Digital Camera World Newsletter
The best camera deals, reviews, product advice, and unmissable photography news, direct to your inbox!
Tom May
Tom May is a freelance writer and editor specializing in art, photography, design and travel. He has been editor of Professional Photography magazine, associate editor at Creative Bloq, and deputy editor at net magazine. He has also worked for a wide range of mainstream titles including The Sun, Radio Times, NME, T3, Heat, Company and Bella.
Related articles
- Here's why I think you should still buy the Canon EOS R in 2023
- Astrophotography in July 2023: what to shoot in the night sky this coming month
- Harrowing image of injured elephant wins Environmental Photographer of the Year
- Vivint's smart home security system reaches from cameras into lighting
FAQs
What is the number one light bulb camera? ›
GALAYOU Light Bulb Camera – Best Overall
With an easy installation process and crystal clear 2K image, this wireless WiFi bulb camera provides superior security recording. The device is simple to set up and use, requiring no additional power source.
Galyou Light Bulb Camera
We'll keep things simple: the Galayou 360 is the best light bulb security camera on the market today. Why? Well, firstly, it's easy to install. Just screw it into a normal light socket, download the free Wansview Cloud app, and follow the app to connect to your WiFi network.
It works better than any gatekeeper or security for your home or office too. Light bulb security camera helps you keep an eye on trespassers. It is very affordable and comes with a micro SD card, a mobile app and amazing features. Light bulb security camera video clarity is quite good.
What should I look for in a light bulb camera? ›A Wide Field of View is Crucial
Consider the angle and range of the light bulb camera's field of view. Some models offer a 360-degree view, while others have a narrower range.
LED bulbs generally last longer than incandescent bulbs. LED bulbs use less energy and produce less heat than incandescent bulbs. You can use LED bulbs with dimmer switches.
Can bulb camera work without Wi-Fi? ›A bulb camera works without wifi by connecting to a cellular network. The camera will connect to the cellular network and send the data directly to your phone or computer.
Can light bulb security camera be stolen? ›Since it is only screwed into the lamp socket, there is a risk of theft. This applies to both the camera and the SD memory card inside. It would therefore be advisable to make backup copies of important recordings if necessary. Visit this product website to see more customer reviews!
What cameras have bulb mode? ›Not all cameras have bulb mode today, but most DSLRs and mirrorless cameras do. This includes nearly every Nikon, Canon, Sony, Fuji, Olympus, and Pentax DSLR or mirrorless camera on the market. It is easy to check if your camera has a bulb mode.
Do light bulb cameras use a lot of electricity? ›A: The total power consumption of this bulb camera is about five watts.
Does bulb camera have night vision? ›Light bulb camara with 355° pan and 90° tilt function, allows you to remotely adjust the camera viewing angle via the App so that you can monitor every corner of the house. You can leave town and monitor the outside and inside of the house at the same time. Motion detection, night vision with an alarm.
Does ring have a light bulb camera? ›
The A19 and PAR38 Smart LED Lightbulbs can be turned on or off from the Ring app and connected to select Ring Video Doorbells and Ring security cameras to see what's happening whenever your lights illuminate.
Can light bulb security camera be used outdoors? ›Light bulb security cameras are often used in outdoor settings to monitor front and backyards, driveways, and entryways. However, they can also be used indoors to keep an eye on children, pets, or any other areas of your home that may require surveillance.
Can you install a camera without WIFI? ›Most of today's security cameras require Wi-Fi, but some use cellular data instead. One option for those who don't have a Wi-Fi network in their home is to install security cameras that don't need internet at all. Instead, users can choose a camera that uses cellular signals to transmit data.
What is the new LED light technology in 2023? ›In 2023, we can expect to see an increase in LED lighting made from sustainable materials such as bamboo, recycled plastics, and organic fibers. These materials not only reduce the environmental impact of LED lighting but also add a unique aesthetic to lighting fixtures.
Which bulb company is the best? ›- Philips Electronics India Ltd. Let's face it. ...
- Osram India Pvt Ltd. People swear by German engineering. ...
- Havells India Ltd. Here's a fun fact, Havells has 14 different manufacturing locations in India alone. ...
- Bajaj. ...
- Wipro. ...
- Eveready. ...
- SYSKA LED. ...
- Moser Baer.
LEDs use much less energy than incandescent bulbs because diode light is much more efficient, power-wise, than filament light.
How can I control my smart bulbs without internet? ›Smart lighting works the same as normal LED lighting without internet connectivity. It still has the same energy-saving qualities. However, most smart lighting also comes with Bluetooth connectivity. This means you can control the lights from your mobile phone even if the Wi-Fi is down.
Do smart bulbs use electricity when off? ›Smart lights are “vampire devices”, which means they use electricity even when they're turned off or in standby mode. The reasoning is simple: In order to be turned on with your smartphone or any other smart device, the lightbulb still needs to be connected to Bluetooth or the internet.
Can I connect my security camera to my phone without Wi-Fi? ›There are a few security cameras that work without WiFi. One option is to use a security camera that relies on 4G cellular service. Another option is to use a security camera that plugs into an Ethernet port (PoE) and records footage to a Network Video Recorder (NVR). 4G cellular cameras are your best choice.
How do you stop people from stealing light bulbs? ›Get rid of the light bulbs and install an LED strip light. This will stop the thefts, probably save you money in the long term because LED strips are an efficient way of lighting a room. Install vandal resistant light fixtures.
Can light bulb cameras be hacked? ›
According to the study, because your smart bulbs are connected to your home's Wi-Fi network, hackers can use the bulbs to infiltrate your network and steal personal information. "Smart bulbs are no safer or less safe than any other smart device you may own," our smart home editor, Sarah Kovac, explains.
Can someone turn on your camera without the light? ›Can someone hack your webcam without the light coming on? While the indicator light can alert you to a webcam hack, it's not always reliable. There are some advanced attacks that can take over your laptop's camera without the light even blinking.
How many light bulb cameras can I connect? ›A: Hello friend. Our app supports up to 16 bulb cameras at the same time (depending on your internet speed). There is no limit to the number of bulb cameras that can be connected.
What does B mean on camera? ›The Bulb setting (abbreviated B) on camera shutters is a momentary-action mode that holds shutters open for as long as a photographer depresses the shutter-release button.
How do you get exposure longer than 30 seconds? ›If the shutter speed is more than 30 seconds you need to use the remote shutter release. Some camera's allow you to tap once to start taking an image and once more to end the exposure. In other camera's you need to manually hold the shutter button for as long as the exposure time should be.
What is the password for the light bulb camera? ›The camera connects to WIFI successfully. Name the camera whatever you like, for example “V380123”, enter its password”123456” (default).
Can you control smart bulb with phone? ›Smart-home integration: All smart light bulbs can be controlled by using an app on your phone (iOS or Android), but most of them can also work with a smart home hub, like Amazon's Echo line, Google's Nest line, or Apple's HomePod.
How do I connect my camera to my phone wirelessly? ›How do I connect my camera to my phone wirelessly? Download the camera's app from the App Store or Google Play Store, sign up for an account, and tap 'add device'. Pair the camera via a QR code or by connecting to it as a wireless network.
What is the brightest security light on the market? ›Security lights | ZDNet's take | Brightness |
---|---|---|
Philips Hue Discover Floodlight | Best color floodlight | 2300lm |
Wyze Cam Floodlight | Best light and camera combo | 2600lm |
Ring Smart + Bridge | Best for Ring users | 2000lm |
Tuffenough Solar Lights | Best solar option | 2500lm |
A typical security light bulb will last around two years. How long the batteries in your security lights last will depend on how often your lights turn on. Generally, however, they'll work for around a year before you need to replace them. Solar batteries can last up to four years.
What color light bulb is best for outside? ›
Warm White (2700 K)
This color temperature creates a welcoming and friendly atmosphere that many homeowners and business owners prefer for their outdoor space. It is most commonly used near entryways of buildings or outdoor spaces.
Given that an average U.S. household has 45 bulbs, leaving them on all night can cost you approximately $2.5 (45 incandescent bulbs x 0.06 kilowatts x 7H x 12 cents). Over the course of a month, this can quickly add up.
What are 2 disadvantages of energy saving light bulbs? ›- Some energy saving lamps emit ultraviolet rays that affect the retina and the cornea. ...
- Energy saving lamps contain mercury, which vapors in case the lamps are broken and might cause harms, especially to children.
Are any security cameras made in the USA? Arecont Vision produces many of the most popular American made security cameras and is offered by A1 Security Cameras for you to consider. This company does manufacture each of its products within the states, including its sophisticated IP camera brand devices.
What is the difference between night vision and infrared camera? ›Thermal imaging doesn't require any light to work. Night vision works by amplifying visible light in the immediate vicinity. Thermal imaging uses infrared sensors to detect temperature differences between objects in its line of sight. Night vision enlarges the light in a scene and converts it to green-tinted images.
How far do night vision cameras see? ›The farthest a night vision camera can observe is about 150 meters (492 feet). The range the camera achieves depends on lens aperture, image sensor technology, and the size and number of infrared LED bulbs, among other things.
What is the famous Tiktok light bulb? ›For starters, the Kasa bulbs are a breeze to install. Twist one into a light socket as you would any other bulb, then install the Kasa app on your smartphone and connect them to Wi-Fi. This is where the real fun begins.
How do you tell if a light bulb has a camera in it? ›You can use your phone's flashlight function to see this even better. Turn the light off, then hold your phone up to the bulb and see if you notice anything inside reflecting back. This could indicate there's a camera lens inside. Still another indicator is a buzzing sound.
Why is the light bulb famous? ›The electric light bulb has been called the most important invention since man-made fire. The light bulb helped to establish social order after sundown, extended the workday well into the night, and allowed us to navigate and travel safely in the dark.
What is the most popular bulb? ›Light-Emitting Diode (Led) Bulbs. LED bulbs are the most popular due to their reliability and energy efficiency.
Who made the light bulb famous? ›
Incandescent Bulbs Light the Way
Long before Thomas Edison patented -- first in 1879 and then a year later in 1880 -- and began commercializing his incandescent light bulb, British inventors were demonstrating that electric light was possible with the arc lamp.
Not only are they more energy efficient and secure, but they also offer convenience and cost savings. Motion sensors can be used both indoors and outdoors to make your property safer, provide better lighting, and save you money in the long run.
What are the disadvantages of motion sensor lights? ›Unreliability: Motion sensor lights can be unpredictable. Wind, pets, and other objects might trigger the light, even when you don't want them to. So, if you're looking for a light that will stay on all the time without fail, a motion sensor light might not be the best option.
Which is better dusk to dawn or motion sensor? ›Such unnecessary illumination during daylight is counterproductive to efforts to save money and conserve energy. It is best to turn your motion lights off in the daytime or invest in dusk to dawn and timed lights. Motion sensor lights are always better than traditional lights that burn through your energy and wallet.
Do bulb cameras have audio? ›【Two-Way Audio High Quality Service】Built-in microphone and speaker, the bulb security camera can have a conversation between you and your visitor,If you have any question, please contact us.
What is bulb camera speed? ›Bulb Mode is an exposure setting that is used when seeking to use a shutter speed of more than 30 seconds. Generally, this would be used in extremely low light situations, such as taking photos of the night sky.
How do I find a listening bug in my house? ›How Can You Tell if There is a Listening Device in Your Home? Telltale signs of a listening device in the home include buzzing or ringing sounds, unusual placement of moveable objects, and damage done to electrical devices and sockets. If the device is hardwired, wires might be partially visible.