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I tested the best $20 security camera you can buy (and it works outdoors)

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ZDNET's key takeaways The Blink Mini 2 is available for $40 on its own or bundled with a weather-resistant power adapter for $50

With a stronger construction, improved video quality, a new spotlight, person detection, and weather resistance for outdoor use, the Blink Mini 2 is a definite upgrade from the first generation

As an Amazon device, the Blink Mini 2 works with Alexa but not Google Home, Matter, or other smart home systems. $19.99 at Amazon

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If you're looking for an affordable security camera that can rival the Wyze Cam in functionality and durability, Blink may have the one for you.

Also: How I completed my ultimate smart home setup with this tablet hub (and why it works)

I tested the Blink Mini 2 for a few weeks and noticed some big changes over the original Blink Mini, which I've had for almost two years. Widely known as an affordable indoor camera, the Blink Mini is a compact plug-in camera that can be installed anywhere inside or outside your home.

The older Blink Mini has two-way audio, 1080p video resolution, Amazon Alexa integration, and works as a chime for the Blink video doorbell. The new Blink Mini 2 has all these features, plus weather-resistant indoor and outdoor construction, person detection, and a spotlight.

The weather resistance is a feature that takes the Blink to the next level, making it a direct Wyze Cam v3 competitor. Wyze Cam maker Wyze Labs has recently been the target of user frustration after a service outage led to a privacy incident where some users could temporarily see other users' live cameras and events.

The Blink Mini 2 next to a Wyze Cam v3. Maria Diaz/ZDNET

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