Is my home really safe when I’m not around?” It’s a question that lingers, especially when unexpected knocks or mysterious noises occur. In today's world, where peace of mind is priceless, having a reliable CCTV system isn't just a luxury—it's a necessity.
Whether you're a tech-savvy individual or someone just starting to explore home security options, this guide is tailored for you. Let's delve into the top CCTV cameras in Malaysia, ensuring you make an informed choice to protect what matters most.
So, if you are looking for some recommended, best CCTV for home use, check out our list of the best home security cameras.
Editor
Mae An NG chevron_right
Table of Contents
Buying Guide for CCTV Cameras in Malaysia
Choosing the right CCTV isn’t just about picking the one with the clearest video. It’s about matching a device to your space, lifestyle, internet setup, and even your future needs. Here’s a breakdown of everything you need to consider before you hit that “Add to Cart” button.
Network Compatibility (2.4GHz vs. 5GHz) — What’s the Difference?
Most smart security cameras in Malaysia run on 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, which is more stable over longer distances. It’s great for single-storey homes or areas where your router is a bit far from the camera. However, many newer homes and high-speed fibre plans now support dual-band routers (2.4GHz and 5GHz).
Here’s how to decide:
- Go 2.4GHz if you’re placing cameras outdoors or far from the router.
- Go 5GHz (or dual-band) if you want faster transmission, especially for 2K/4K footage indoors.
Tip: Check your router's capabilities before buying a 5GHz-only camera—it’s a common mismatch!
Power Source (Plug-in vs. Battery vs. Solar)
This is a game-changer in terms of installation, portability, and maintenance.
Plug-In Models:
- Reliable power, no downtime.
- Best for indoor or fixed outdoor spots near a socket.
- Downside: Wires can limit placement and aesthetics.
Battery-Powered Cameras:
- Ideal for renters or those avoiding drilling.
- Look for models offering 3 to 6 months of battery life on a single charge.
- Watch out for hidden costs like needing spare batteries.
Solar-Powered Options:
- Perfect for outdoor setups in Malaysia’s sunny climate.
- Pair a camera with a compatible solar panel for true set-and-forget security.
- Initial setup may cost more, but you’ll save on charging effort.
Video Quality & Resolution (1080p vs. 2K vs. 4K)
It’s tempting to go for 4K, but ask yourself what you actually need.
- 1080p (Full HD): Good enough for indoor use, tight spaces, or general monitoring.
- 2K (QHD): Great for facial recognition, license plate capture, and wider coverage with more clarity.
- 4K (UHD): Best for businesses or large outdoor areas. You’ll need good Wi-Fi or PoE and lots of storage.
Higher resolution = clearer images = more storage needed.
Smart Features (Motion Detection, AI, and Remote Access)
A basic camera records footage. A smart camera does more:
- Motion Detection: Triggers recording when something moves.
- AI Detection: Distinguishes people, pets, vehicles—so fewer false alarms from fluttering curtains or cats.
- Two-Way Audio: Let’s you talk through the camera (say hi to your dog or yell at an intruder).
- Cloud vs. Local Storage: Decide if you want recordings saved to a microSD card or on the cloud (the latter often requires subscriptions).
Look for brands that offer custom motion zones, event history, and instant phone alerts. It’s the difference between watching what happened and preventing something from happening.
Installation & Portability (DIY-Friendly or Pro Required)
If you’re not keen on climbing ladders or reading a wiring manual, stick with wireless cameras. They're easier to mount with magnetic bases or screws and usually take 10 minutes to set up via app.
Wired or PoE models, however, offer:
- Stronger, more stable connections
- Constant power and fewer resets
- Typically used for permanent setups or larger surveillance systems (especially outdoors)
Ask yourself: "Do I want to install this once and forget it, or be able to move it when I rearrange furniture?"
App Ecosystem (How Many Devices Can You Manage?)
This is where many users get caught off guard. Some camera apps:
- Only supports 1–2 live views at a time (unless you upgrade)
- Charge for multi-camera management
- Require firmware updates for smooth use
Check the camera’s official app in your app store. Read recent reviews to ensure it’s:
- Easy to navigate
- Frequently updated
- Capable of handling multiple devices on one screen
If you’re expanding your system later, make sure it’s scalable.
Budget Tiers for Malaysian Buyers
Let’s break it down based on what you can expect at each price range in Malaysian Ringgit (MYR):
|
Budget Tier |
Price Range |
What You Get |
|
Entry-Level |
RM100 – RM250 |
1080p resolution, basic motion alerts, indoor use only |
|
Mid-Range |
RM250 – RM600 |
2K clarity, night vision, smart alerts, and some outdoor options |
|
Premium |
RM600 and above |
4K video, AI detection, PoE/smart home integration, solar options |
Don’t just go by price—go by total value including storage, mounting gear, and app functionality.
Where to Buy: Local Tips for Promos & Warranty
Here in Malaysia, top platforms like Shopee, Lazada, and official brand stores offer good warranty protection and fast shipping. Here’s how to make the most of your purchase:
- Look for “Official Store” or “Mall” badges for guaranteed authenticity.
- Wait for mega sale dates (11.11, 12.12, Ramadan/Raya).
- Some bundles include free microSD cards, mounts, or even 2-camera kits.
- Always double-check warranty periods (usually 1 year standard).
Quick Tips Summary
- Outdoor Use? Get weatherproof (IP65+) and dual-band Wi-Fi.
- Power Issues? Go battery or solar—no socket needed.
- Big House? Choose 2K or 4K cameras with wide-angle or pan/tilt.
- Small Apartment? A single 1080p camera with motion alerts may suffice.
- Want Remote Access? Ensure the app has live view, alerts, and playback.
CCTV Comparison Table
|
CCTV Model |
Estimated Price (MYR) |
Resolution |
Type |
Power Source |
Smart Features |
Wi-Fi Support |
|
TP-Link Tapo C200 |
RM120–RM160 |
1080p Full HD |
Indoor |
Plug-in |
Motion detection, pan/tilt, two-way audio |
2.4GHz |
|
Xiaomi Mi 360° 2K |
RM150–RM220 |
2K |
Indoor |
Plug-in |
AI detection, pan/tilt, two-way audio |
2.4GHz |
|
Ezviz C6N |
RM130–RM170 |
1080p Full HD |
Indoor |
Plug-in |
Motion detection, night vision, pan/tilt |
2.4GHz |
|
TP-Link Tapo C500 |
RM200–RM280 |
1080p Full HD |
Outdoor |
Plug-in |
Motion alerts, alarm, weatherproof |
2.4GHz |
|
Hikvision DS-2CE16D0T-IRP |
RM180–RM230 |
2MP (~1080p) |
Outdoor |
Wired (DVR system) |
Infrared night vision |
N/A (Wired) |
|
Reolink 4K PoE |
RM750–RM950 |
4K UHD |
Outdoor |
PoE (Power over LAN) |
AI detection, smart zones, dual lens, ultra-wide view |
N/A (PoE) |
|
TP-Link Tapo C425 |
RM380–RM460 |
2K QHD |
Indoor/Outdoor |
Rechargeable Battery |
Magnetic mount, long battery, AI detection |
2.4/5GHz |
|
Reolink Argus 3 Pro |
RM420–RM500 |
2K QHD |
Indoor/Outdoor |
Battery/Solar-ready |
AI motion detection, spotlight, smart alerts |
2.4/5GHz |
Top 8 CCTV for Home in Malaysia
Mini verdict
It's the undisputed king of value. For the price of a fancy dinner, you get a reliable, rotating camera that covers an entire room and is ridiculously easy to set up, making it the perfect "starter" security camera. This is ideal for first-time users or anyone looking for the best cctv for home security on a tight budget.
Key Features
- 1080p Full HD Resolution
- Smooth Pan and Tilt (360° horizontal, 114° vertical)
- Advanced Night Vision (up to 30 ft)
- Two-Way Audio
- Motion Detection and Notifications
- Local Storage via microSD Card (up to 128GB)
Why We Recommend It
The Tapo C200 is the camera we recommend to friends and family who just want to keep an eye on things without a complicated setup. Think of checking on your pets, using it as a baby monitor, or just making sure the house is secure. The Tapo app is incredibly simple; if you can use Facebook, you can use this. It’s a simple, plug-and-play device that delivers peace of mind without breaking the bank.
User Tip
Use the "Patrol Mode" feature in the app. You can set a few key positions (like the front door and a window), and the camera will automatically pan between them. It’s like having a virtual security guard making its rounds, and it's much more effective than leaving the camera in a static position.
Mini verdict
This camera's knockout punch is its 2K resolution. It elevates the standard 360-degree camera by providing a much crisper, more detailed image, allowing you to actually see the details when you zoom in. This is ideal for tech-savvy users who want a sharper image and already use other Xiaomi smart devices.
Key Features
- 2K Super Clear Resolution (2304 x 1296)
- 360° Pan-Tilt-Zoom viewing angle
- F1.4 Large Aperture for better low-light performance
- Enhanced Color Night Vision in low light
- AI Human Detection to reduce false alarms
- Integrates with the Mi Home / Xiaomi Home app
Why We Recommend It
If you've ever been frustrated by a blurry feed from a 1080p camera, the Mi 360° 2K is your answer. That extra resolution makes a real difference, making it a strong contender for the best cctv for home when image detail is your main concern. For those already in the Xiaomi ecosystem, it’s a no-brainer, slotting perfectly into the Mi Home app. It’s a noticeable step-up in quality for a very small step-up in price.
User Tip
For the best vantage point, mount it upside down on your ceiling. The box includes a ceiling mount, and there's a setting in the app to flip the image 180 degrees. This gives you an unobstructed, bird's-eye view of the entire room
Mini verdict
The C6N’s magic trick is its smart tracking. It doesn't just detect motion; it locks on and physically follows a subject, a feature that makes it a candidate for the best cctv for home if you have active kids or pets.
Key Features
- 1080p Full HD Resolution (A 2K/4MP version is also available)
- Smart Tracking feature
- 360° Field of View with Pan/Tilt
- Privacy Shutter (lens hides away when enabled)
- Two-Way Talk
- Smart Night Vision with IR (up to 10m)
Why We Recommend It
While other cameras alert you to motion, the Ezviz C6N takes it a step further. When your toddler (or your cat) starts running around, the camera automatically pans and tilts to keep them in the frame. The physical privacy shutter is also a fantastic touch—just tap a button in the app, and the lens rotates up into the casing, giving you a clear visual confirmation that it’s not recording.
User Tip
Place the C6N in a central location, like on a bookshelf in the living room. This gives its Smart Tracking feature the best possible range to follow subjects as they move across the room without being obstructed.
Mini verdict
It takes the simple, effective functionality of an indoor pan/tilt camera and puts it in a tough, weatherproof ball that can withstand the elements, giving you 360-degree coverage outdoors. For homeowners who need to monitor a wide outdoor area like a yard or driveway, this one is your bet.
Key Features
- 1080p Full HD Resolution
- 360° Horizontal & 130° Vertical Pan/Tilt
- IP65 Weatherproof Rating
- Customizable Motion Detection & AI Person Detection
- Physical Privacy Mode
- Secure Local & Cloud Storage Options
Why We Recommend It
For those looking for the best cctv for home to cover a large backyard or driveway without blind spots, the C500 is a game-changer. A fixed outdoor camera can leave huge blind spots, but the Tapo C500 lets you remotely look around your entire property. It offers the flexibility of a PTZ dome camera in a simple, Wi-Fi-connected package that anyone can install.
User Tip
Use the "Mark Position" feature to save specific viewpoints (e.g., 'Driveway', 'Front Door', 'Garden Shed'). This allows you to tap a single button in the app to instantly point the camera to a critical area instead of manually swiping.
Mini verdict
This is a workhorse, not a toy. It’s a component of what many professionals consider the best cctv setup: one that's wired, reliable, and built to last, trading Wi-Fi convenience for the rock-solid reliability of a connection to a DVR.
Key Features
- 1080p Full HD Resolution
- Analog HD-TVI Output
- Powerful EXIR 2.0 Night Vision (up to 20m)
- IP67 Weatherproof Rating
- Durable metal and plastic construction
- Requires a Digital Video Recorder (DVR)
Why We Recommend It
When you absolutely cannot afford a dropped connection from spotty Wi-Fi, you go wired. This Hikvision bullet camera is a staple in professional installations for a reason. It's built to last, offers fantastic night vision, and connects directly to a DVR for continuous, reliable recording. This is the solution for monitoring a storefront, a warehouse, or critical outdoor entry points where reliability is non-negotiable.
User Tip
This is not a standalone camera. You MUST pair it with a compatible Hikvision (or other HD-TVI) DVR and a power supply. Plan your cable runs carefully before installation, as you'll need to run a coaxial cable from the camera back to the DVR.
Mini verdict
Its strength is crystal-clear 4K video and ultimate simplicity through a single cable. Power over Ethernet (PoE) means you run one standard network cable for both power and data, making for a surprisingly clean and powerful setup.
Key Features
- True 4K Ultra HD (8MP) Resolution
- Power over Ethernet (PoE) for single-cable installation
- Advanced Person/Vehicle Detection
- Excellent Night Vision (up to 100 ft)
- IP66 Weatherproof
- Works with Reolink NVRs or as a standalone camera
Why We Recommend It
This camera is for those who want to see everything. The 4K resolution is so sharp you can read a license plate or identify faces from a distance. It's a key component in building the best cctv system you can install yourself, blending professional-grade quality with DIY accessibility. The PoE setup is a game-changer—no need to hire an electrician, just run an Ethernet cable, plug it in, and you're done.
User Tip
To get the most out of it, pair it with a Reolink NVR (Network Video Recorder). This gives you a central hub for 24/7 recording from multiple cameras without any subscription fees and ensures the system works perfectly together.
Mini verdict
This camera's defining feature is freedom. With a massive 10,000mAh battery and a slick magnetic mount, you can stick it almost anywhere—metal fence, wall, or shelf—for months at a time without ever thinking about a power cord.
Key Features
- 100% Wire-Free with 10,000mAh Rechargeable Battery
- 2K QHD Resolution (2560 × 1440)
- Strong Magnetic Base for easy mounting
- Full-Color Night Vision with Starlight Sensor
- Smart AI Detection (Person, Pet, Vehicle)
- IP66 Weatherproof
Why We Recommend It
Ever wanted a camera somewhere but there was no outlet nearby? The Tapo C425 is the solution. Its huge battery is designed for long stretches between charges (up to 300 days, depending on usage), making it truly low-maintenance. The magnetic base is pure genius—just snap it onto any metal surface. It's perfect for renters or for monitoring areas like a back gate, a treehouse, or a temporary construction site.
User Tip
For optimal battery life, fine-tune the motion sensitivity and create activity zones in the app. This ensures the camera only wakes up when there's important movement, not every time a car drives by on the street.
Mini verdict
This camera turns night into day. Its standout feature is the motion-activated spotlight that not only deters intruders but also enables vivid, full-color video recording at night, so you see people and cars in color, not just ghostly grayscale shapes.
Key Features
- 2K 4MP Super HD Resolution
- Motion-activated LED Spotlight
- Wire-Free with Rechargeable Battery
- Optional Solar Panel for continuous power
- Smart Person/Vehicle Detection
- Dual-Band Wi-Fi (2.4/5 GHz) for a more stable connection
Why We Recommend It
The spotlight and solar power option make this a top contender for the best cctv for home if you want a powerful, set-and-forget outdoor security solution. The spotlight is a dual threat: it startles potential intruders and provides the light needed for brilliant color night vision. Add the optional Reolink Solar Panel, and you may never have to take it down to charge it again.
User Tip
Definitely get the solar panel accessory. Find a spot for the camera that gets a few hours of direct sunlight each day, plug in the panel, and forget about battery anxiety forever. It’s a small investment for total convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I spend on a CCTV camera?
Honestly, you don’t have to blow your whole bonus on it. A decent camera for basic indoor use can go for under RM250. Want outdoor coverage, sharper video, or motion alerts that don’t cry wolf every time a leaf moves? You’re looking at RM300–RM600. Anything more than that, and you're venturing into full security-system territory (probably overkill if you're just watching your car porch).
Can I install it myself, or should I call someone with tools and a ladder?
If your camera is wireless, has an app, and comes with a stick-on mount—you’re golden. It’s easier than assembling IKEA furniture. But if you’re dealing with wired setups, multiple units, or drilling into concrete walls, save your weekend and call a pro (or a very handy relative).
Do I need Wi-Fi for it to work?
You don’t need Wi-Fi to record locally, but let’s be real—it’s 2025. Without Wi-Fi, you’ll miss out on live viewing, mobile alerts, and remote access while you’re hanging out at the mamak. So yes, get the camera online for the full experience. Just check your router actually reaches where you're mounting it, especially for outdoor spots.
Should I get cloud storage or just use a memory card?
That depends on how much you like backup plans. A memory card is simple and doesn’t cost extra, but if someone grabs the whole camera? Bye-bye footage. Cloud storage keeps your recordings safe, even if your camera disappears—but there’s usually a subscription fee. If your camera supports both, use both. Double protection, no regrets.
Can I put a CCTV facing the neighbour’s gate?
Technically? No. Ethically? Definitely not. Your camera should point at your property. If you’re capturing part of a shared walkway or a neighbour’s window, you might get more than just awkward stares—you could land in hot water. Always be respectful. Monitor your space, not someone else’s life.
Final Thoughts
Look, choosing the best CCTV for home isn't about getting the most expensive gadget with a million features you'll never use. It's about finding the right tool for the job. Start by asking: "What do I need to protect?" From pets to porches, there’s a model for every lifestyle and budget for you.