Add a camera to your Raspberry Pi and turn it into a security system

HD and simple

AUKEY PC-LM1 1080p Webcam

Staff pick

This USB webcam from AUKEY is plug and play for the Raspberry Pi and can take record videos in 1080p at 30FPS. The “fold-and-go” design makes it easy to pack up and roll whenever you need to move the camera elsewhere. Plus, the PC-LM1 features fast autofocus, so the subject is never blurry, even it’s close to the camera or moving around.

$50 at Amazon
$70 at Walmart

From the source

Raspberry Pi V2 Camera Module

The second-generation Raspberry Pi Camera Module works great with the Raspberry Pi 3 or 3 B+ and connects directly to the MIPI connector on the board itself. It can take still images at 3280×2464 (8MP) or record 4K video at 30FPS. However, Raspberry Pi recommends using a 2A Power Supply, so you’ll need to double-check that before installing this module.

$24 at Amazon

For version 4

Arducam Video module for Raspberry Pi

This 5-megapixel camera board works exactly like the official version but also works with the Raspberry Pi 4. This fixed focus lens can record video at 1080p while offering a still picture resolution of 2592×1944. Plus, this is natively compatible with your Raspberry Pi, so you can just plug and record.

$10 at Amazon

So Tiny

Arducam 1/4-inch Camera Module for Raspberry Pi

Don’t let the tiny size fool you — this camera module takes great HD video and will fit anywhere. It’s perfect for surveillance thanks to its 1080p video resolution and built-in IR filter. However, owners of the Raspberry Pi Zero will have to look elsewhere as this module is not compatible.

$27 at Amazon

Night Vision

Raspberry Pi NoIR Camera Module V2

With a normal lens and an IR lens, plus IR flood LEDs, this camera module can pull 24-hour duty when it comes to video. It also works with just about every Raspberry Pi model, including Pi Zero, and going up to the new Pi 4. This official Night Vision camera can also record at up to 90fps, provided that you’re okay with 480p video.

$27 at Amazon
$33 at Newegg

Plug and play

NexiGo USB Web Camera

The NexiGo USB Web Camera may not be super flashy, but that’s just fine when it’s being used with the Raspberry Pi. This camera offers a plug-and-play interface, without the need for annoying software just to get things working.

$43 at Amazon

Ultra-wide lens

MakerFocus 8MP Wide-Angle Module

This module from MakerFocus features a 160-degree, wide-angle lens, capable of taking 8MP pictures. But the fun doesn’t stop there, as you can record up to 1080p video at 30FPS or 720p video at 60FPS. Before getting this up and running, you will need to get the V2 PCB to work with your Raspberry Pi.

$20 at Amazon

Adjustable focus

Dorhea Automatic IR-Cut Sensor

The Dorhea Automatic IR-cut sensor will automatically switch between day mode and night mode, so you don’t have to do it manually. It can take a 5MP (2592×1944) picture and recording video at 1080p or 720p and up to 60FPS. The included CSI interface provides a higher bandwidth so that your pictures and videos are crystal clear.

$17 at Amazon

See at night

Oliver Night Vision Fisheye Module

Those looking for a solid night vision camera won’t be disappointed with the Oliver Night Vision Module. This camera works with just about every Raspberry Pi model and provides a 5MP sensor capable of recording 1080p at 30fps, or you can just use it for high-resolution pictures.

$19 at Amazon