Best Budget Security Cameras That Work with iPhone and Android
Affordable Smart Cameras You Can Control from Anywhere
When I first decided to set up home security, I didn’t want to spend a fortune — but I also didn’t want a system that only worked on one phone. I needed something affordable, reliable, and most importantly, compatible with both iPhone and Android since my partner and I use different phones.
After months of research (and testing a few duds), I finally found the best budget-friendly security cameras that work great with both operating systems. Whether you’re team iOS or Android, these picks let you monitor, record, and speak through your cam right from your phone.
Table of Contents
What I Looked For (And You Should Too)
To make this list, the cameras had to:
- Be under $50 (some even under $30!)
- Offer 1080p or higher resolution
- Include two-way audio and night vision
- Work seamlessly with both Apple and Android apps
- Have great reviews on Amazon
Here are my top picks — and yes, they really do work with both iPhone and Android.
Top Budget Security Cameras for iOS and Android
1. Wyze Cam v3
- 1080p HD + color night vision
- Two-way audio
- Optional cloud + local SD storage
- Works with Wyze app on iOS & Android
Check on Amazon
2. Blink Mini
- Crisp 1080p video
- Motion alerts & voice intercom
- Works with Alexa
- Compatible with Blink Home Monitor app on both platforms
Check on Amazon
3. TP-Link Tapo C100
- Wide field of view
- Free cloud trial + SD card support
- Simple plug & play setup
- Works with Tapo app on iPhone & Android
Check on Amazon
4. Eufy Solo IndoorCam C24
- 2K resolution (better than 1080p!)
- Strong privacy settings
- Smart detection filters people & pets
- Smooth in Eufy Security app (iOS/Android)
Check on Amazon
5. YI 1080p Smart Home Camera
- Motion-detection alerts
- 24/7 cloud or local recording
- Supports Google & Alexa
- YI Home app works great on both platforms
Check on Amazon
Setup Was Easier Than I Thought
I was nervous about syncing the cams to two phones, but all the apps had options to add multiple users. I installed the app on my iPhone, my partner installed it on their Android, and we both could view the feed, talk, and review history at the same time.
Some even allow guest access, so you can give someone temporary permission (like a dog sitter or parent) without giving up full control.
Final Thoughts
You don’t have to break the bank to feel safer. These budget-friendly cameras give you all the essentials — crystal-clear video, night vision, and remote access — without the overpriced fluff.
If I had to recommend just one? The Wyze Cam v3 is unbeatable for under $35. But honestly, every option on this list has proven itself in real-world use — and they all work great on both iPhone and Android.
One thing I appreciate about these budget-friendly cameras is how fast the apps load. With both iPhone and Android, I’ve experienced almost zero lag when checking the live feed, even when I’m using mobile data on the go. That’s a game changer when I need quick access.
Another overlooked benefit is cross-platform syncing. Let’s say I install a camera on my iPhone, and then later, someone else scans the same QR code from their Android. It syncs effortlessly. I’ve tested this with Wyze, Blink, and Tapo — no tech headaches involved.
If you’re sharing camera access with roommates or family members, having a system that supports multi-user access on both Android and iOS is essential. With most of these cameras, I can even assign custom roles — view-only or full access.
Some budget cams also work with voice assistants like Siri Shortcuts or Google Assistant. While not every feature is voice-enabled, I’ve set routines where my camera arms itself when I say “Goodnight” — regardless of the phone I’m using.
A big advantage for iPhone users is how notification previews from these apps show up instantly, even on lock screen. For Android, you can customize these alerts further by sound, vibration, or schedule, which is great for people who don’t want constant pings.
The mobile apps themselves are well-designed for both platforms. I used to expect a buggy experience from budget products, but companies like Eufy and Wyze have really stepped up their app game. Clean interfaces, fast playback, and easy navigation make them feel premium.
I also love that I can set custom detection zones right from my phone. Whether on iPhone or Android, I can tap and drag on the screen to tell the camera exactly what to monitor. This avoids false alerts from things like ceiling fans or passing cars.
Night vision works surprisingly well for budget cameras these days. Some of these models offer color night vision when ambient light is available. I didn’t expect that from a $30 camera, but the Wyze Cam v3 proved me wrong.
Privacy was a big concern for me too. I was happy to find that most of these models let me shut off the camera lens or mic via the app. So even if I’m working from home or having a private conversation, I don’t feel like the camera is always watching.
SD card storage is a great option to have. Instead of paying for cloud plans, I inserted a 32GB card and now have multiple days of footage stored locally. Plus, I can pull the card and review files from my computer if needed.
Some cameras, like the Tapo C100, also offer event-based recording — which means it only records when something actually happens. That saves space and makes reviewing the clips much faster on both Android and iOS.
Lastly, all of these cameras support push-to-talk features. I’ve used this countless times to talk to delivery drivers or even calm my dog down when I’m not home. Whether I’m on my iPhone or using an Android tablet, the audio is clear and responsive.