Keeping your home safe doesn’t have to be a complicated affair. A simple outward-facing CCTV can go a long way in giving you peace of mind, whether it’s keeping an eye on your packages or deterring thieves.
From durable security cameras to seamless doorbell models, here are 8 CCTVs that are suitable for your HDB flat to improve your security.
CCTV cameras
1. Xiaomi Smart Camera C301
Image credit: Lester E. on Lazada
The Xiaomi Smart Camera C301 is a popular choice among homeowners for its compact size and support for flat and inverse mounting. At its affordable price, it’s a great option for homeowners starting their home surveillance system or looking for a temporary camera to monitor renovation progress.
It captures footage in 2K and supports both wired and wireless power options, making it suitable for a wide variety of setups. Its local AI technology helps detect human movement to reduce false alarms, while real-time alerts notify you immediately when someone is spotted.
You can conveniently retrieve key events with the Mi Home app, with key events highlighted in the timeline for quick access. However, an additional microSD card or subscription to Xiaomi’s cloud storage system is needed to access recorded footage.
Price: $25.90
Real homeowner review:
“Works well, clear images even in the dark. Can turn 360 degrees. Easy to set up. Cable long enough. Overall satisfied. It’s the third one I’m buying.” – m*****o
2. Arlo Essential 2nd Gen Outdoor Security Camera
Image credit: Device Deal Tech Store
For homeowners looking to level up their night surveillance, the Arlo Essential 2nd Gen Outdoor Security Camera offers a unique colour night vision feature. Its slim design fits neatly between your door and your gate, creating a sleek appearance. Unlike most security cameras that only offer nighttime footage in black & white, the camera has a built-in spotlight that enables full-colour night vision for more detailed monitoring.
The spotlight also doubles as a security feature: it activates when motion is detected, along with a built-in siren to deter intruders. The camera’s 100% wireless design reduces hassle in your CCTV setup, making it easy to reposition to the most ideal viewing angle.
Price: $103
Real homeowner review:
“Simple to set up and install. Good quality and clear view. Includes flashlight and 2 way communication” – F***
3. Tapo QHD AI Home Security IP Camera
Image credit: c****g on Shopee
The Tapo QHD Home Security IP Camera series is one of the most affordable options on the market as well, offering a wide range of cameras from 1080p to 2K HD recording definition to suit different needs. At just 11cm tall, its compact size makes it discreet enough to install at your front door.
If you have multiple Tapo home cameras as part of your surveillance setup, you can view up to 4 camera feeds at once with the Tapo app, providing comprehensive coverage inside and outside of your home. The camera also comes with a comprehensive pan and tilt function, offering a 360° horizontal and 114° vertical range to reduce blind spots.
Price: from $35.90
Real homeowner review:
“Design is sleek and nice. Video is clear and sharp. Works great. Easy to set up too, compared to another brand I previously bought. Thanks!” – s*****7
4. Nooie Cam 360
Image adapted from: Maker World
The Nooie Cam 360 offers a wide 355° field of view, giving you comprehensive coverage with minimal blind spots. With automatic motion tracking, the camera can detect and follow movement across its range without you needing to manually adjust the angle.
It also features motion and sound detection, picking up on unusual activity even when you’re not actively monitoring. Furthermore, the dynamic noise reduction feature ensures your recorded footage is clear when you need it the most.
Price: $65
Real homeowner review:
“Ordered 2 devices and it arrived fast. Setup was easy and the app navigation was also intuitive. Good product for the price” – pascalpeh
Doorbell CCTV cameras
5. Ring Video Doorbell Plus
Image credit: Ring
You might already know the popular Ring doorbell camera, but the Ring Video Doorbell Plus is an upgraded version that features a higher clarity video resolution in 1536p HD resolution and colour night vision. As part of the Ring Protect additional subscription, you can utilise the Smart Alerts system that differentiates between people and packages, saving you time when deciding whether to answer the door.
The device runs on a quick-release removable battery for convenient charging. A no-drill mount is available for this model, making it renter-friendly or ideal for homeowners who prefer non-permanent installations.
Price: $279.90
Real homeowner review:
“Was using Gen 1 previously. Decided for an upgrade and gotten this, love that the battery is removable. Image clarity is much improved compared to gen 1.” – raymondlimmh
6. Xiaomi Smart Doorbell 3s
Image credit: zhoushunxin on Shopee
For those looking for a weather-proof smart doorbell, the Xiaomi Smart Doorbell 3s is built with an IP65 rating for dust and water resistance. Its durability makes it suitable for the rainy season, especially if your corridor is exposed to the elements. Compared to previous models, the smart doorbell has increased customisation with its adjustable monitoring area and night vision sensitivity.
Night vision activates automatically in low light, providing clear visibility even after dark. The doorbell also comes with an angle adapter—helpful for units that directly face the neighbouring doors and protects their privacy.
Price: $89
Real homeowner review:
“The Xiaomi Wireless Bell is a reliable, sleek, and easy-to-install doorbell. It offers a strong wireless range, clear chimes, and adjustable volume settings. The modern design fits well with any decor. Its long battery life and responsive button make it perfect for home use. Great value for the price!” – sheepheads_coffee
7. Aqara Smart Video Doorbell G4
Image credit: HomeSmart
The Aqara Smart Video Doorbell G4 is the first battery-powered smart doorbell that works with Apple’s HomeKit, displaying doorbell alerts and live footage through your Apple TV. For homeowners using other smart home systems, the doorbell is compatible with Google Home and Alexa as well.
Its local AI system has built-in facial recognition to send customised alerts based on who is at your door, which is useful when you’re expecting guests or deliveries. For added security, the SD card is hidden within the indoor chime repeater to prevent any theft or misuse.
One novel feature is its voice-changing function which disguises your voice with different options (such as an uncle or robot) when speaking through the doorbell. This is a handy feature that protects your privacy, especially if you’re living alone.
Price: $209
Real homeowner review:
“Really like the integration with Apple Home! This is the doorbell I’ve been waiting for. Even went to the trouble of providing for power to my doorbell, no regrets cos I think it’s faster and I don’t need to keep changing batteries. Video opens quickly on my iPhone and I like being able to talk to visitors with my iWatch! The sound quality can be better, but that’s a minor qualm for such a good product!” – YC Soh
8. Google Nest Doorbell
Image credit: Pinterest
One of the most minimalist designs on the market, the Google Nest Doorbell offers a sleek doorbell camera that gives your doorway a neater look. It features fast motion detection and customisable detection areas for precise monitoring, while the Familiar Faces feature (with an additional Nest Aware subscription) can identify frequent visitors like family members for added security.
The doorbell integrates with the Google Home and Nest smart home devices, though it only offers 3 hours of event history for free—additional storage is available through the paid subscription. It’s also a quieter option without a built-in chime, with doorbell notifications sent to your phone or Nest smart speakers instead.
Price: $184.14
Real homeowner review:
“This has to be my most gorgeous doorbell till date. It is extremely motion sensitive hence it will record every single thing. I live in a corner unit with very close proximity to immediate neighbours hence it’s not easy to change the viewing angles so as not to capture their movements. However, I believe this will be very useful for people who live in houses spaced further apart.
CCTV – the resolution is always good even in dim lighting and there is no lag. It is easy to fix and mount. and lastly it weathers light splashes from rain really well.” – Norris
Where can I legally install my HDB CCTV camera?
Before installing an external-facing security camera in your HDB, make sure that you’re following the latest regulations for proper placement.
HDB allows the installation of outward-facing CCTV cameras, as long as it’s positioned on the external side of your front door and within your gate. However, town council approval is required for installing cameras in shared spaces, such as the common corridor.
8 Best CCTVs to improve home security
With more homeowners turning to smart home devices to elevate their homes, installing a CCTV or a doorbell camera for the doorway is one of the easiest ways to upgrade your home security. Whether you’re deterring parcel theft or monitoring your front door while you’re away, these cameras offer practical features for everyday ease.
For more articles on home safety:
- Guide to installing a CCTV outside your HDB flat
- 6 best parcel lockers for your HDB corridor
- 4 types of digital door locks and where to get them
Cover image adapted from: Arlo, Aqara
Drop us your email so you won't miss the latest news.
