Foscam

• Camera Variety 
• Storage Options 
• Support Features 

Camera Variety

Foscam offers an impressive range of camera options. Some of the cameras feature pan and tilt options, such as the Foscam Plug and Play FI9826P. Customers can choose an indoor or outdoor camera, with night vision via infrared LEDs, motion sensor capability, wired and wireless camera, pan and tilt, as well as a standard fixed-spot surveillance camera. They have a range of different picture quality options to choose from, including 720 p, 960 p, 1080p, and Ultra HD 2k resolution.

They make PT, cube, bullet, dome, PTZ, battery-powered, and baby monitor cameras. Some models even have two-way audio with a built-in mic and built-in speaker. 

The Foscam site has all models listed as out of stock, but their cameras are sold officially through Foscam Direct on Amazon, where prices range from $39.99 on the low-end to $229.99 on the high end. 

The $39.99 lowest-priced option is the Foscam C1 HD 720P WiFi Security IP Camera with iOS and Android App, Super Wide 115° Viewing Angle, Night Vision Up to 26ft, PIR Motion Detection. 

The most expensive model available for direct sale is the Foscam FI9928P Outdoor PTZ (4x Optical Zoom) HD 1080P WiFi Security Camera - Pan Tilt Wireless IP Camera with Night Vision up to 196ft, IP66 Weatherproof Shell, WDR, & Motion Alerts. It costs $299.99. 

Storage Options 

Foscam makes video storage readily accessible, with lots of options. You can use FTP and NVR video recorders for local storage or use the Foscam cloud to view footage from your video feed. Some models even have a local storage SD card option. 

Foscam offers free storage through their cloud service for new customers, while other companies charge, even at the entry level. Their cloud storage pricing is 4-tiered and based on how long your motion-detection-triggered videos are saved. 

• Free (for new users) - 8 hours 
• $3.99/mo - 3 days 
• $7.99/mo - 7 days 
• $12.99/mo - 30 days 

No long-term contracts are required. Customers are also granted the flexibility to switch plans as often as they choose; so if they find the free option too limiting, or their standard package too expensive, they can opt for another plan. Most new purchases come with a 30-day free trial. 

Support Features 

Potential and existing customers are also treated to several support features that set Foscam apart from the competition. In addition to a live chat feature on their homepage, Foscam also provides customers with an extensive online knowledge base and dealer locator. They also offer firmware downloads on all their devices and video tutorials for the do-it-yourself market. 

Cameras have a 2-year limited warranty and accessories have a 6-month limited warranty. 

• Account Security 
• App Issues
• Limited Foscam Reviews

Account Security 

Foscam has had issues in the past with securing the accounts of its customers. Some customers have complained that their Foscam equipment - including Foscam baby monitors - had been hacked, and the only solution Foscam could offer was to change their passwords. The burden ultimately falls on the customer to make sure their firmware remains updated. 

App Issues

The Foscam Cloud mobile apps have middling user reviews on the App store (1.8/5) and Google Play (2.8/5). 

Limited Foscam Reviews

Unfortunately, Foscam reviews are limited so it's difficult to know what the customer experience is like with the security provider. However, the few reviews Foscam does have are negative, highlighting defective cameras. We suggest looking into other home security providers that have more reviews with positive feedback from consumers. 

View Best Home Security Companies