C. Scott Brown / Android Authority
It’s hard to blame anyone for feeling fed up with Google Nest cameras right now. The latest Nest Aware price hike means users will soon be paying up to $200 a year, with zero new features to show for it. That’s on top of already pricey hardware, limited local storage options, and a system that some feel might actually be getting worse rather than better.
Maybe you’re already planning to cancel like some of these angry Redditors. Maybe you’re just Nest-curious but don’t love the idea of hefty recurring fees for the functionality you expect. Either way, there’s good news: there are plenty of excellent security camera alternatives out there that don’t lock you into a monthly bill — or at least cost a whole lot less than Google’s subscription.
We’ve rounded up five of the best options that either ditch the subscription entirely or offer way better value than Google Nest Aware. Whether you’re replacing an indoor camera or an outdoor one, every option is a respectable brand with solid features. We’ve also gone for simpler setups, though the likes of UniFi and Reolink are good options for more DIY inclined users.
Which Google Nest camera alternative would you choose? 50 votes TP-Link Tapo C225 36 % EufyCam 2C Pro 30 % Blink Outdoor 4 10 % Wyze Cam v4 20 % Arlo Essential (2nd Gen) 2 % Other (let us know in the comments) 2 %
TP-Link Tapo C225
If you’re ditching Nest because you’re tired of paying for features you don’t really need, the TP-Link Tapo C225 should be high on your list. This compact indoor pan-and-tilt camera hits the sweet spot between price, performance, and privacy without tying you into any particular ecosystem.
The C225 is all about flexibility. It supports microSD storage, so you don’t need to pay for cloud recording if you don’t want to. But it also plays nicely with Synology NAS systems (via ONVIF) or third-party alarm setups (thanks to RTSP support), giving you backup options that Google simply doesn’t offer. There’s even a manual privacy shutter — something you won’t find on Nest cams.
You still get AI-powered person detection, night vision, two-way talk, and smart alerts.
Despite the lack of a subscription requirement, you still get AI-powered person detection, night vision, two-way talk, and smart alerts. It’s also compatible with Google Home, though it won’t appear in the Favorites tab. Still, it works well in routines and voice commands. Also, the camera itself is extremely budget-friendly.
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