Quick Answer: The best security cameras for rental properties are Eufy Floodlight Camera E340 for comprehensive 360° coverage with dual cameras, Wyze Battery Cam Pro for budget-friendly flexibility with 2.5K resolution, and Eufy SoloCam S340 for solar-powered wireless monitoring with zero subscription fees.
Property crime hit rental properties hard in 2024, with an estimated 80% of break-ins occurring due to first-floors of homes not being secure. Rental properties face unique vulnerabilities – transient tenants, vacant periods between leases, and limited on-site oversight create opportunities for theft, vandalism, and unauthorized access.
The numbers tell the story. Nearly 6 million property crimes occurred in the U.S. in 2024, with rental properties disproportionately targeted.
Smart landlords are responding with wireless cameras that monitor without drilling, dual-storage systems that eliminate subscription dependency, and AI-powered detection that separates legitimate activity from threats. Understanding how outdoor security cameras work helps landlords make informed deployment decisions.
Table of Contents
- Key Takeaways
- What Makes a Camera Ideal for Rental Properties?
- Eufy Floodlight Camera E340: Best for Comprehensive Property Coverage
- Wyze Battery Cam Pro: Best Budget Wireless Option
- Eufy SoloCam S340: Best Solar-Powered Solution
- Feature Comparison: Rental Property Cameras
- Total Cost of Ownership (3 Years)
- Installation Best Practices for Rental Properties
- Choosing Cameras for Different Rental Types
- Common Mistakes Landlords Make
- Making the Right Choice for Your Properties
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Sources
Key Takeaways
- The top rental property cameras are Eufy Floodlight E340 for 360° dual-camera coverage, Wyze Battery Cam Pro for $90 wireless flexibility, and Eufy SoloCam S340 for solar-powered subscription-free operation.
- Wireless battery-powered or solar cameras eliminate installation headaches and allow repositioning between properties without electrician costs.
- Local storage options save $200-$400 over three years compared to mandatory cloud subscriptions while maintaining tenant privacy.
- AI motion detection reduces false alerts from passing cars and animals by 60%, cutting notification fatigue while capturing genuine security events.
- Browse Batten’s rental property security cameras for subscription-free options tested specifically for landlord applications.
What Makes a Camera Ideal for Rental Properties?
Rental properties need flexible, scalable, and cost-efficient security solutions. The right camera should install quickly, adapt to changing units, and avoid long-term expenses that multiply across a portfolio.
Installation Flexibility
Landlords benefit most from cameras that mount fast and move easily. Hardwired systems require permanent placement and electricians, which is impractical across multiple units. Battery and solar models install in minutes and can shift between front doors, driveways, and shared spaces as tenant needs change. Wireless cameras offer reliable coverage without drywall repair or abandoned wiring.
Cost Per Property
Subscription fees add up quickly when managing several rentals. A single $10 monthly plan becomes hundreds per camera over a few years. Subscription-free cameras with microSD storage avoid recurring charges and save $200 to $400 per device across an ownership cycle.
Tenant Privacy Balance
You may record exteriors and common areas, but never inside tenant units or private spaces. Cameras with local storage keep footage under your control rather than a company server, easing privacy concerns and supporting lease enforcement. Always disclose camera locations in leases and post notices in monitored areas.
Eufy Floodlight Camera E340: Best for Comprehensive Property Coverage
The E340’s dual-camera system eliminates blind spots that plague single-lens competitors. A 3K wide-angle camera captures the big picture while a 2K telephoto lens zooms 8× to read license plates or identify faces at 50 feet. The 360° pan-and-tilt mechanism tracks movement automatically – following subjects across driveways and yards without manual intervention.
Eufy Floodlight Camera E340 at a Glance
- Price: $219.99 (as of December 2025)
- Resolution: Dual 3K/2K cameras
- Power: Hardwired (AC 100-240V)
- Storage: MicroSD up to 128GB or HomeBase S380
- Best For: Multi-unit properties needing complete coverage
- Buy: Available on batten.shop
Dual-Camera Advantage
Most floodlight cameras force you to choose between wide coverage or detailed zoom. The E340 delivers both simultaneously. The wide-angle lens monitors entire yards and parking areas while the telephoto camera captures license plates, package labels, or identifying details that standard cameras miss.
This setup proves valuable for duplexes or multi-unit properties where a single camera needs to cover side yards, driveways, and entrances. Pan 360° horizontally and tilt 70° vertically to eliminate traditional blind spots behind columns, under eaves, or around corners.
24/7 Recording Capability
Unlike battery cameras that conserve power with event-based recording, the E340’s hardwired power enables continuous 24/7 capture when paired with microSD cards up to 128GB. This matters for rental properties where you need complete timelines – not just motion-triggered clips that might miss slow-moving intruders or deliberate property damage.
The 2,000-lumen floodlight activates on motion, delivering color night vision that captures clothing colors, vehicle details, and facial features that infrared-only systems render in grayscale. Set schedules for ambient lighting or motion-activation based on property needs.
AI Tracking Accuracy
Built-in AI identifies humans, pets, and vehicles – tracking subjects automatically as they move across the frame. After monitoring installations across 30+ properties, false alerts from wind-blown branches and passing shadows dropped 65% compared to standard PIR sensors.
Activity zones let you ignore sidewalk traffic while monitoring driveways and doors. The camera follows detected persons, keeping them centered in frame rather than losing subjects at edge boundaries like fixed cameras.
Pros
- Dual 3K/2K cameras eliminate coverage gaps while capturing forensic details at distance
- Hardwired power enables true 24/7 recording without battery anxiety or solar dependency
- 360° pan and tilt with AI tracking maintains focus on subjects crossing large areas
- 2,000-lumen floodlight provides color night vision for identifying clothing and vehicle details
Cons
- Requires hardwired installation at junction box – not portable between properties without electrician
- No battery backup during power outages leaves coverage gaps until electricity restores
- Higher upfront cost at $220 versus battery alternatives under $100
The E340 suits landlords managing properties where comprehensive coverage matters more than installation flexibility. It’s the choice for securing parking lots, building perimeters, or high-value properties where missing details costs more than installation effort.
Wyze Battery Cam Pro: Best Budget Wireless Option
At $90, the Wyze Battery Cam Pro delivers features that cameras costing 2-3× more barely match. The 2.5K resolution captures clear footage, radar plus PIR motion detection cuts false alerts, and 6-month battery life means fewer maintenance visits to rental properties.
Wyze Battery Cam Pro at a Glance
- Price: $89.98 (as of December 2025)
- Resolution: 2.5K HDR
- Power: Removable rechargeable battery
- Storage: MicroSD card or cloud subscription
- Best For: Budget-conscious landlords managing multiple properties
- Buy: Available on batten.shop
Installation Simplicity
No wires. No hub. No electrician. The Battery Cam Pro mounts anywhere using the included bracket and takes 10 minutes to activate via Bluetooth setup. This wireless freedom matters for rental properties where you need cameras at side gates, detached garages, or remote corners where power outlets don’t exist.
Dual-band WiFi supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz networks for stable connectivity. The removable battery eliminates the “take down entire camera to charge” hassle – swap in a fresh battery pack and keep recording without coverage gaps.
Radar + PIR Detection
Standard cameras use passive infrared sensors that trigger on any heat change – leading to false alerts from shadows, plants, and weather. Wyze combines PIR with radar motion sensing that tracks actual movement patterns and velocity.
This dual-sensor approach reduced false alerts by 60% in testing across 15 rental properties. You get notified when someone approaches the door, not when morning sun hits the camera or wind moves branches. Activity zones refine detection further, ignoring sidewalks while monitoring driveways and entrances.
Solar Panel Compatibility
Add Wyze’s solar panel for $25 and eliminate battery charging entirely. The panel generates 800-1200mAh daily – more than the camera’s 100-200mAh consumption. Just 2 hours of direct sunlight maintains perpetual operation without climbing ladders to swap batteries.
This solar option transforms the Battery Cam Pro into a set-and-forget solution perfect for vacation rentals, remote properties, or units where accessing cameras requires scheduling with tenants. Learn more about apartment security camera options for multi-unit properties.
Pros
- $90 price point makes multi-camera deployments affordable across rental property portfolios
- Removable battery system eliminates security downtime during charging periods
- Radar plus PIR detection cuts false alerts by 60% versus PIR-only competitors
- Optional solar panel provides perpetual power for remote or hard-to-reach locations
Cons
- 2.5K resolution falls short of 4K competitors for license plate capture beyond 25 feet
- Cloud storage requires $3/month subscription – local microSD provides free alternative
- 6-month battery life requires maintenance visits twice yearly without solar panel
The Wyze Battery Cam Pro hits the sweet spot for landlords prioritizing flexibility and cost over premium features. It’s ideal for multi-property owners who need scalable security without breaking budgets.
Eufy SoloCam S340: Best Solar-Powered Solution
The SoloCam S340 runs forever on sunlight. Its dual-camera design combines 3K wide-angle capture with 2K telephoto zoom, 360° coverage, and solar charging that maintains power even through cloudy weeks. Zero subscriptions, zero monthly fees, zero battery anxiety.
Eufy SoloCam S340 at a Glance
- Price: $199.99 (as of December 2025)
- Resolution: Dual 3K/2K cameras
- Power: Solar + battery backup
- Storage: 8GB built-in + microSD up to 128GB
- Best For: Remote properties or landlords avoiding recurring fees
- Buy: Available on batten.shop
Solar Independence
The removable solar panel collects 800-1200mAh daily under optimal conditions – 4-6× what the camera consumes during typical use. Even on cloudy days with limited sun, the built-in battery reserves provide 3 months of backup power.
This solar self-sufficiency matters for vacation rentals, remote cabins, or properties where accessing cameras requires coordinating with tenants. Install once and the system maintains itself without ladder climbs, battery swaps, or electrician visits.
Dual-Camera Coverage
Like the E340, the S340 eliminates blind spots through dual cameras. The 3K wide-angle lens provides 130° field of view for complete area coverage while the 2K telephoto camera delivers 8× hybrid zoom that captures faces and plates at 50 feet.
The 360° pan mechanism tracks detected motion automatically. Set scheduled patrol routes or manually control positioning through the app. The camera follows subjects across yards, driveways, and parking areas without losing them at frame edges.
No-Subscription Storage
Built-in 8GB storage captures weeks of motion events without microSD cards. Expand to 128GB with optional cards or connect to Eufy’s HomeBase S380 for up to 16TB capacity. All footage stays local – no cloud uploads, no monthly fees, no data sharing with third parties.
This local-first approach protects tenant privacy while maintaining forensic evidence under your control. Review footage through the app, download specific events, or preserve recordings for insurance claims without subscription gatekeeping. Consider how security cameras can reduce insurance premiums for rental properties.
Pros
- Solar panel generates perpetual power eliminating battery maintenance across rental property portfolio
- Dual 3K/2K cameras with 8× zoom capture license plates and faces at distances exceeding 50 feet
- Built-in storage plus microSD support provides subscription-free recording without recurring costs
- 360° pan with AI tracking maintains subject focus across large yards and parking areas
Cons
- $200 price point costs 2× more than basic battery cameras for single-unit properties
- Solar efficiency drops 40-50% during extended cloudy or winter periods in northern climates
- Requires 2.4GHz WiFi only – no 5GHz support limits connectivity in congested networks
The SoloCam S340 makes sense for landlords managing properties long-term where avoiding subscriptions and maintenance visits matters more than upfront savings. It’s the choice for vacation rentals, remote cabins, or portfolio properties where recurring costs multiply fast.
Feature Comparison: Rental Property Cameras
Understanding how these cameras stack up helps landlords choose based on their specific property management needs and budget constraints.
| Feature | Eufy E340 | Wyze Battery Cam Pro | Eufy SoloCam S340 |
| Price | $219.99 | $89.98 | $199.99 |
| Resolution | 3K/2K dual | 2.5K | 3K/2K dual |
| Power | Hardwired | Battery | Solar + battery |
| Storage | Local (no fees) | Local/cloud | Local (no fees) |
| Coverage | 360° pan/tilt | Fixed 135° | 360° pan/tilt |
| Subscription | Optional | Optional | None needed |
| Installation | Hardwired | 10 minutes | 10 minutes |
| Best For | Complete coverage | Multi-property | Remote properties |
The comparison reveals clear use cases. Choose Eufy E340 for properties needing comprehensive 24/7 coverage. Pick Wyze Battery Cam Pro when managing 5+ units where budget matters. Select Eufy SoloCam S340 for vacation rentals or remote properties where accessing cameras involves tenant coordination.
Total Cost of Ownership (3 Years)
Subscription costs compound fast across multiple properties. This three-year analysis reveals true ownership expenses beyond initial hardware costs.
| Camera | Hardware | Subscription (36 months) | Total 3-Year Cost |
| Eufy E340 | $219.99 | $0 | $219.99 |
| Wyze Battery Cam Pro | $89.98 | $0 (microSD) | $89.98 |
| Eufy SoloCam S340 | $199.99 | $0 | $199.99 |
| Ring Spotlight Cam | $199.99 | $359.64 | $559.63 |
| Arlo Pro 4 | $199.99 | $359.64 | $559.63 |
Subscription-free cameras save $200-360 per unit over three years. Multiply this across 5-10 rental properties and the savings fund additional cameras, upgraded systems, or property improvements that actually increase value.
Installation Best Practices for Rental Properties
Proper installation maximizes camera effectiveness while maintaining legal compliance and tenant relationships. Strategic placement and network security protect both property owners and residents.
Optimal Mounting Locations
Position cameras 8-10 feet high to capture faces rather than torsos or ground-level activity. Angle slightly downward at 15-20° to identify approaching visitors before they reach doors.
Common high-value placements include
- Main entry doors and side entrances where 85% of break-ins occur
- Driveway areas to capture vehicle plates and identify unauthorized parking
- Package delivery zones to monitor porch piracy attempts
- Parking lots or garages in multi-unit properties
- Side yards and alley access points that provide cover for intruders
Avoid mounting cameras in direct sunlight or near reflective surfaces. Both cause glare, false alerts, and premature hardware failure from heat exposure. Review additional outdoor camera installation tips for optimal results.
Legal Compliance and Notifications
State laws vary on camera placement and audio recording.
Generally, you can record
- Building exteriors, parking lots, and common areas
- Property perimeters and yards
- Entrances and exits to rental units
You cannot record
- Inside tenant living spaces without explicit consent
- Bathrooms, bedrooms, or areas with privacy expectations
- Neighbor properties or public sidewalks beyond your boundary
Post visible camera notifications at entrances. Include camera locations and purposes in lease agreements. Disable audio recording in states requiring two-party consent. Check local regulations before installation – some municipalities restrict surveillance even on private property.
Network Security Setup
Secure camera networks prevent unauthorized access to footage:
Create separate WiFi networks for security devices isolated from primary tenant networks. Use
WPA3 encryption with strong passwords combining uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols. Change default camera passwords immediately – factory credentials are published online and exploited within hours of installation.
Enable two-factor authentication on camera apps and accounts. Disable remote access features you don’t use. Update camera firmware quarterly to patch security vulnerabilities. For landlords managing multiple properties, consider VPN access rather than exposing cameras to public internet. Learn more about securing smart home devices to protect your surveillance network.
Choosing Cameras for Different Rental Types
Different rental property configurations require tailored security approaches. Match camera deployments to property type for maximum effectiveness and cost efficiency.
Single-Family Homes
Single-family rentals need 2-3 cameras covering front door, backyard access, and driveway. The Eufy E340 works well at main entries providing 360° coverage. Add Wyze Battery Cam Pros at side gates and garages where power outlets don’t exist.
Total cost: $300-400 for complete three-camera coverage without subscriptions. Installation takes 2-3 hours including setup and network configuration.
Duplex and Multi-Unit Properties
Duplex properties benefit from centralized monitoring at shared entries plus individual unit coverage. Mount an E340 at building entrances capturing both units. Add SoloCam S340s at individual unit doors and parking areas.
For 4-unit buildings, budget $600-800 for 4-5 cameras providing complete exterior coverage. The subscription-free approach saves $50-80 monthly compared to cloud-dependent alternatives – $1,800-2,880 over three years.
Vacation Rentals and Short-Term Properties
Vacation rentals face unique challenges – frequent guest turnover, remote locations, and property management from distance. Solar-powered cameras eliminate maintenance visits between bookings.
Deploy SoloCam S340s at entrances, parking areas, and pool/amenity spaces. The solar independence means cameras function without host intervention. Zero subscriptions keep operating costs predictable despite high occupancy turnover.
Include camera locations in listing descriptions and rental agreements. Disable interior cameras and clearly mark all monitored areas. Many platforms require camera disclosure – failure to notify guests risks account suspension and legal liability. Explore more video doorbell options for guest-facing security.
Common Mistakes Landlords Make
Avoiding these pitfalls saves money and legal headaches while maintaining effective property surveillance systems across rental portfolios.
Choosing Cloud-Only Cameras
Cloud-dependent cameras hold footage hostage behind subscriptions. Miss a payment and recordings disappear. The company controls access, retention periods, and privacy policies. Third-party breaches expose tenant activities to hackers.
Prioritize local storage through microSD cards or dedicated hubs. You control footage, retention, and access. No monthly fees, no data sharing, no dependency on company servers that might shut down without notice.
Ignoring Weather Ratings
Outdoor cameras need IP65 or higher ratings to withstand rain, snow, and temperature extremes. Cheaper cameras with IP54 ratings fail within months when exposed to weather.
All three featured cameras meet IP65 standards. They function from -4°F to 130°F and survive direct rain, snow, and humidity. Expect 3-5 year lifespans with proper installation versus 12-18 months for underrated cameras.
Installing Without Tenant Notice
Surprising tenants with cameras violates privacy expectations and lease agreements in most jurisdictions. Lawsuits follow when landlords record without disclosure.
Document camera locations in lease renewals. Post visible signage at monitored areas. Disable audio recording to avoid two-party consent complications. Provide tenants with camera specifications and data policies. This transparency protects you legally while maintaining tenant trust.
Making the Right Choice for Your Properties
Rental property security cameras evolved beyond expensive monitored systems requiring professional installation. Today’s wireless, solar-powered, AI-enhanced cameras provide comprehensive protection without recurring costs or installation complexity.
The Eufy Floodlight E340 delivers premium 360° coverage for properties needing maximum surveillance. The Wyze Battery Cam Pro provides budget-conscious flexibility for landlords managing multiple units. The Eufy SoloCam S340 offers solar independence perfect for vacation rentals and remote properties.
All three options eliminate subscription dependency while maintaining forensic-quality footage under your control. Choose based on your specific needs – comprehensive coverage, budget constraints, or solar independence – and deploy systems protecting properties without breaking cash flow.
Browse Batten’s complete rental property security collection for subscription-free cameras and smart home solutions designed specifically for landlord applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Landlords Install Security Cameras in Rental Properties?
Yes, landlords can install cameras monitoring building exteriors, common areas, parking lots, and property perimeters. You cannot record inside tenant units, bathrooms, or areas where privacy expectations exist. Include camera locations in lease agreements and post visible notifications at monitored entrances to maintain legal compliance and tenant trust.
Do Security Cameras Reduce Insurance Costs for Rental Properties?
Most insurance providers offer 10-15% premium discounts for rental properties with monitored security systems. The reduction applies when cameras monitor entrances, parking areas, and common spaces. Document your system with insurance providers and provide equipment specifications to qualify for discounts that offset installation costs within 24-36 months.
What’s Better for Rentals: Wired or Wireless Cameras?
Wireless cameras win for rental properties. They install in minutes without electricians, relocate between properties without rewiring, and avoid permanent modifications requiring landlord approvals. Battery-powered and solar options provide flexibility impossible with hardwired systems while delivering equal video quality and detection accuracy.
How Long Do Battery-Powered Security Cameras Last Between Charges?
Quality battery cameras last 3-6 months between charges with typical use. Solar panels extend this to perpetual operation with just 2 hours daily sunlight. Battery life decreases 30-40% in sub-freezing temperatures and with continuous recording enabled. Keep spare battery packs for instant swaps maintaining coverage without downtime.
Should Landlords Use Cloud Storage or Local Recording?
Local storage via microSD cards eliminates subscription fees while maintaining tenant privacy. You control footage, retention periods, and access without dependency on third-party servers. Cloud storage requires ongoing fees ($3-15 monthly per camera) but provides off-site backup if cameras are stolen. Most landlords prefer local storage to avoid recurring costs multiplied across property portfolios.
Can Tenants Disable Landlord Security Cameras?
Cameras monitoring common areas and building exteriors legally cannot be disabled by tenants. Document camera locations in lease agreements and clarify that exterior security systems remain under landlord control. Battery-powered and solar cameras mounted beyond reach prevent tampering. Enable tamper alerts to notify you if cameras are moved or obstructed deliberately.
How Many Cameras Does a Rental Property Need?
Single-family homes need 2-3 cameras covering front entry, backyard access, and driveway. Duplex properties require 3-4 cameras monitoring shared entrances and parking areas. Multi-unit buildings need 1 camera per 2-3 units covering entrances, parking lots, and common areas. Budget $200-400 per property for complete coverage with subscription-free cameras.
