Does Alexa Have a Camera?

Alexa users prefer to control their devices through voice. It helps them manage all smart devices hand-free.

However, many users aren’t sure whether they can control a security camera using Alexa or not. In this article, we will answer this question in detail. We will explain how a security camera works with Alexa. We will also share the step-by-step process to add a security camera on Alexa and control it with your voice.

Does Alexa have a Camera?

Alexa Echo Show devices have a built-in camera. It can be used for video calls and as a security camera. So, if you have an Echo Show device, you don’t need a separate camera.

For other Alexa devices or even Echo Show, you can use any compatible security camera. There are many brands and options that support Alexa voice assistant. However, you will have to connect the camera to Alexa through the application.

How Does Security Camera Work with Alexa?

Alexa does not directly work with security cameras. You have to integrate the camera with it through the application.

First, you need to set up the camera through your Wi-Fi network and complete the initialization setup. Then, you need to connect it to your Alexa account. The steps for this process depend on the camera manufacturer. Once you do that, you are ready to control the security camera with Alexa.

After successful integration, you can say, “Alexa, show me the live preview of Camera 1,” or “Alexa, turn on the security camera.”  It will instantly show you the preview on the screen. You can see the live preview on Echo Show, Fire TV, etc.

What Cameras Work with Alexa?

Here are a few security camera brands that work with Alexa.

Reolink Argus PT

Reolink Argus PT works incredibly well with Alexa. You can see the live view on Echo Spot, Echo Show, or TV. It offers 2K+ (5MP) resolution, which ensures excellent clarity and intricate details. Even at night, you can see true colors through color night vision. The camera contains a pan and tilt, so it covers a massive area.

It’s a Wi-Fi battery-powered camera that you can install without any hassle. It can also be connected to a small solar panel for automatic charging. It can smartly detect objects and send instant alerts. Other than that, it offers weatherproofing, flexible storage, dual-band Wi-Fi, and tons of features.

Ring Spotlight Cam Plus

Ring Spotlight Cam Plus is an outdoor camera that works with Alexa. You just need to use any voice command to see the live preview. It offers HD video quality and colored videos at night. It can also deter threats through its spotlights.

Blink Outdoor

Blink Outdoor is a battery-powered wireless camera that can be connected with Alexa. It captures videos in HD quality and shows you on the Alexa screen. For night, it uses infrared night vision to offer clear black-and-white videos.

Wyze Cam v3

You can also opt for Wyze Cam v3. It’s an Alexa-enabled camera with HD video quality. You can use it indoors and outdoors and enjoy two-way audio, color night vision, motion & sound detection, etc.

How to Add Security Camera on Alexa?

Let’s see the step-by-step process of connecting Reolink security cameras to Alexa.

1. Open the Reolink application and go to the Cloud tab. Tap Smart.
2. You will see all your devices here. Tap Enable in front of the security camera.
3. Open the Alexa app. Tap “+” at the top right corner. Tap Add Device.
4. Select Camera. Tap Reolink.
5. You will see prompts to ensure the camera is on and already set up. Connect the Reolink account to your Alexa app. Tap Enable to Use.
6. Log into your Reolink account by entering the credentials. Tap Allow. You will see a message on your camera that it has been successfully connected.

Alexa vs Google Assistant: Which Platform is Good for Camera?

Alexa and Google Assistant are both popular voice assistants that can work with cameras. However, they differ in various aspects.

Alexa is a great option when it comes to compatibility. You will find a wide range of security cameras that are compatible with it. Their setup process could be a bit cumbersome, but it supports all advanced features.

On the other hand, Google Assistant does not have many compatible options for security cameras compared to Alexa. You can go with Reolink, Eufy, and Arlo security cameras. The linking or connection of a security camera to the Google Assistant is extremely simple. You can also check the camera search history to find relevant events.

Other than that, both assistants are almost similar when it comes to using security cameras. They work well with your voice and get the job done hands-free.

FAQs

1. Can Alexa be used as a security camera?

Yes, you can use the Alexa Echo Show as a security camera. However, for optimal security, go with a reliable security camera and connect it to Alexa.

2. Which Alexa has a built-in camera?

Alexa Echo Show has a built-in camera that you can use as a security camera and video calling.

3. Can you view through Alexa camera?

Yes, you can view through the Alexa camera. It works like a normal camera. You can see the live preview using the application or voice command.

Conclusion

Only Alexa Echo Show contains a built-in camera, which can be used for calling or as a security camera. However, if you want to ensure the security of your house, office, or any other place, a reliable third-party camera is the best option. We have shared some of the popular brands and cameras you can go with. After buying the camera, you can follow the steps to connect it with Alexa.