Ranking updated
Security camera apps in 2026
A security camera works through its own brand’s app, so start from the system you have or plan to buy. Ajax puts cameras, alarm and automation in one app with live video and an archive. TP-Link Tapo runs simple home cameras with live view, recording and two-way talk. Reolink connects to IP cameras and recorders locally or remotely and shows many channels at once. Details below.
How we picked: we took apps from camera makers whose own store description covers live view, recording and remote access, and noted what needs a subscription. Apps from Hikvision and Dahua, including their consumer brands, were left out on purpose.
Cameras as part of a security system
Ajax Security System manages intrusion protection, video surveillance and automation in one interface: arm and disarm with a tap, get critical alerts even in silent mode, see photo and video verification of an alarm, and watch live video or browse the archive.
Home cameras and IP cameras
TP-Link Tapo sets up Tapo cameras alongside smart plugs and lights, lets you watch live, record, talk through the camera and share devices with family; cloud video history and AI detections are in the Tapo Care subscription. Reolink reaches IP cameras and network recorders on the same network or remotely, shows several channels on one screen and plays back recordings from the SD card or recorder.
| App | Best for | Platforms | Price | Recording |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ajax Security SystemApp StoreGoogle Play | cameras inside a full alarm system | iOS, Android | free | live video and archive, alarm verification |
| TP-Link TapoApp StoreGoogle Play | simple home cameras | iOS, Android | free; Tapo Care subscription for cloud history | recording, cloud with Tapo Care |
| ReolinkApp StoreGoogle Play | IP cameras and recorders | iOS, Android | free | playback from SD card and recorder |
Frequently asked questions
Which app do I need for a security camera?
The app from the camera’s maker: Ajax Security System for Ajax, TP-Link Tapo for Tapo cameras, Reolink for Reolink cameras and recorders.
Do I need a subscription to record?
Not always. Reolink plays back recordings from the camera’s SD card or recorder, and Tapo cameras record too; Tapo’s cloud history and AI detections need the Tapo Care subscription.