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Pet cameras can make it easier to check on dogs and cats while you’re away from home, but the features vary considerably between devices. Video quality, viewing angle, night vision, two-way audio, alerts, subscriptions, and privacy features can all affect how useful a camera is in everyday life. This guide explains what to compare before choosing a pet camera.
What to Compare in a Pet Camera
Video quality:
Resolution affects how clearly you can see your pet and what’s happening around them. Many current pet cameras offer 1080p video, while some models offer higher resolutions.
Viewing angle and movement:
A wider field of view can cover more of a room. Pan-and-tilt cameras can provide additional coverage by allowing the camera to move remotely.
Night vision:
Infrared night vision can make it possible to monitor pets when the room is dark.
Two-way audio:
Cameras with a microphone and speaker allow you to hear what’s happening and speak through the camera remotely.
Alerts and notifications:
Motion, sound, barking, or other smart alerts can notify you when activity is detected. Some advanced alerts may require a subscription.
Subscriptions and storage:
Check which features are included without a subscription and whether recorded video, cloud storage, or advanced alerts require an ongoing plan.
Privacy and security:
Consider account security, camera privacy controls, and whether the manufacturer explains how video and account data are protected.
Subscriptions and storage: check which features are included without a subscription plan, or see our picks for the best pet cameras without a subscription.
Privacy and security: a camera puts a lens and microphone in your home; our privacy and security guide covers what to check.
Popular Pet Cameras Compared
Pet cameras range from simple indoor monitoring devices to more advanced systems with pan-and-tilt controls, smart alerts, cloud recording, and other features. The options below illustrate some of the differences worth considering.
Petcube Cam 360
Petcube Cam 360 is an indoor pet camera with 1080p video, night vision, two-way audio, and remote pan-and-tilt controls for viewing different areas of a room. The camera can be used without a subscription, while Petcube Care plans add features such as video history and additional smart alerts.
Check price on AmazonFurbo 360° Dog Camera
Furbo 360° Dog Camera is designed specifically for monitoring dogs and combines 360-degree rotating video coverage with two-way audio and a treat-tossing feature. Some monitoring and alert features are available through Furbo’s optional subscription service, so owners should compare the included features with the ongoing cost of a plan.
Eufy Indoor Cam E220
Eufy Indoor Cam E220 is a general-purpose indoor security camera that can also be used for pet monitoring. It offers pan-and-tilt viewing, two-way audio, night vision, motion tracking, and local storage options. Unlike cameras designed specifically for pets, it focuses on home monitoring rather than pet-specific features such as treat dispensing.
Quick Comparison
- Petcube Cam 360: Best suited to owners looking for a dedicated pet camera with remote pan-and-tilt viewing, two-way audio, and optional subscription-based monitoring features.
- Furbo 360° Dog Camera: Combines pet monitoring with dog-focused features such as treat tossing and optional advanced alerts.
- Eufy Indoor Cam E220: A general-purpose indoor camera with pan-and-tilt coverage and local storage options that can also work well for basic pet monitoring.
The right pet camera depends on how you plan to use it. Consider whether you need simple live viewing or features such as pan-and-tilt coverage, recorded video, smart alerts, two-way audio, or treat dispensing. Also compare subscription costs, storage options, privacy controls, and which features remain available without an ongoing plan.