Refurbished vs. New: Saving Money on Security Cameras Without Sacrificing Safety

When it comes to home security, getting the best bang for your buck is always the goal. But should you buy a brand-new security camera, or is going with a refurbished security camera a smart way to save cash?

The truth is, both options have their perks and drawbacks. A refurbished security camera can cost two to four times less than a new model, but it might come with some risks—like privacy concerns or uncertain lifespan. New cameras give you peace of mind with warranties and the latest tech, but they can be pricey.

So, how do you decide? Let’s break it down.

What Are Refurbished Security Cameras?

Before jumping into whether refurbished is a good deal, let’s clear up what that actually means.

A refurbished security camera is one that was previously owned or returned and has gone through repairs, testing, and quality checks before being resold. These cameras could come from:

  • Customer returns – Maybe someone changed their mind or found a small defect.
  • Retail display models – Units used in stores for demo purposes.
  • Minorly defective products – Items that had a small issue that was fixed.
  • Used cameras – Devices that have been owned before but were cleaned and restored.

Not all refurbished cameras are the same. Some are certified refurbished (tested and repaired by the manufacturer), while others are just resold by third-party sellers with little to no refurbishing done. That makes a big difference in quality.

Why Buy a Refurbished Security Camera?

There are some solid reasons to consider a refurbished security camera, especially if you’re on a budget.

1. Huge Cost Savings

  • Expect to pay 50-75% less than you would for a brand-new model.
  • Example: A new outdoor PTZ security camera might cost $200, while a refurbished version could be around $50.
  • If you’re adding multiple cameras to your home, the savings can add up fast.

2. Better for the Environment

  • Buying refurbished means less e-waste and fewer discarded electronics.
  • You’re keeping a perfectly good security camera out of the landfill.

3. Decent Quality (If Bought from the Right Place)

  • Some refurbished cameras work just as well as new ones, especially if they come from a reputable seller.
  • Certified refurbished models often go through rigorous testing before resale.

4. Good for Backup or Low-Risk Areas

  • If you just need a camera for a garage, shed, or backyard, refurbished might be enough.
  • Works well as a secondary camera rather than your primary security device.

Sounds good, right? But there are a few catches.

Downsides of Buying Refurbished Security Cameras

Going with a refurbished security camera can save you money, but it’s not always smooth sailing. Here are some things to watch out for.

1. Privacy Risks

  • If the camera wasn’t properly reset, the previous owner could still access the feed.
  • Some cameras are tied to old accounts, making them impossible to reset without manufacturer intervention.
  • Fix this by buying from reputable sources and resetting everything as soon as you get the camera.

2. Short or No Warranty

  • New cameras come with 1- to 2-year warranties, while refurbished models might only have 30 to 90 days—or none at all.
  • If it stops working after a month, you might be out of luck.

3. Unpredictable Lifespan

  • Some refurbished cameras work perfectly fine for years.
  • Others? They might die within days—especially if the internal components were heavily used.
  • No way to tell how much life is left in the camera unless it’s been fully refurbished by a trusted company.

4. Missing Parts or Accessories

  • Some sellers only send the camera, leaving out mounts, power cords, or screws.
  • Buying extra parts separately can add to the cost, making a new camera a better deal.

Refurbished can be worth it, but only if you know what to look for.

Why Buy a Brand-New Security Camera?

A new security camera is the easiest and most reliable option. It costs more, but it comes with some big advantages.

1. No Guesswork

  • Everything works right out of the box. No need to worry about old software, worn-out parts, or missing accessories.

2. Full Warranty & Support

  • Most new cameras come with a 1- to 2-year warranty.
  • If something goes wrong, customer support actually helps you (refurbished buyers don’t always get that perk).

3. Latest Features & Tech

  • Expect higher resolution, better night vision, and smarter AI detection.
  • Older, refurbished models might not have the latest updates.

4. No Privacy Risks

  • Since it’s factory-fresh, there’s no chance a previous owner still has access to the feed.

If you want top-notch security with zero hassle, buying new is the way to go.

How to Safely Buy a Refurbished Security Camera

If you decide to go with a refurbished security camera, make sure you protect yourself by following these steps.

refurbished security camera

1. Buy from Reputable Sellers

  • Best options:
    • Manufacturer-certified refurbishers (Reolink, Swann, Amcrest, etc.).
    • Well-known retailers (Amazon Renewed, Best Buy, B&H Photo).
  • Avoid shady third-party sellers with no return policy.

2. Look for a Warranty or Return Policy

  • A good seller will offer at least a 30-day return window.
  • If there’s no warranty at all, think twice before buying.

3. Check for Missing Parts

  • Make sure it comes with the power cord, mount, and any needed accessories.
  • If parts are missing, factor in replacement costs before buying.

4. Inspect for Damage

  • Look for scratches, dents, or worn-out connectors—signs that it might not last long.

5. Reset the Camera Immediately

  • Factory reset the device and change all passwords as soon as you get it.
  • If the reset option isn’t available, that’s a huge red flag.

Refurbished vs. New: Which One Should You Get?

It really comes down to your budget and risk tolerance.

Go for Refurbished If:

✔️ You’re on a tight budget and want the most cameras for your money.
✔️ You’re okay with some risk (as long as you buy from a good seller).
✔️ You need a backup or secondary camera for a lower-priority area.

Go for New If:

✔️ You want the latest tech, full warranty, and peace of mind.
✔️ You need reliable, 24/7 security with no risk of failure.
✔️ You don’t want to worry about privacy issues or missing parts.

Final Thoughts

Refurbished security cameras can save you a lot of money, but they come with some trade-offs. If you’re buying one, stick with certified refurbished models from trusted sources and make sure you reset everything before using it.

New security cameras cost more, but they’re more reliable, come with a warranty, and don’t have privacy risks.

At the end of the day, the best choice depends on how much risk you’re willing to take versus how much money you want to save.

FAQ: Refurbished vs. New Security Cameras

1. Are refurbished security cameras safe to use?

Yes, but you have to be careful. The biggest concern is privacy—if the camera wasn’t properly reset, a previous owner could still have access to the feed. Always factory reset the camera and change all passwords immediately after purchase. Also, buy from trusted sellers to reduce the risk of getting a faulty or compromised device.

2. How much money can I save by buying a refurbished security camera?

A refurbished security camera can cost 50-75% less than a brand-new model. For example, a camera that costs $200 new might be available for $50 refurbished. The savings add up quickly, especially if you’re buying multiple cameras.

3. Do refurbished security cameras come with a warranty?

Some do, but it depends on the seller. Certified refurbished cameras from manufacturers usually come with a 30- to 90-day warranty, while some retailers offer extended return policies. Always check the warranty before buying, because some refurbished models have no coverage at all.

4. What should I check before buying a refurbished security camera?

  • Buy from a reputable seller (manufacturer-certified refurbishers, major retailers).
  • Look for a warranty or return policy.
  • Check for missing accessories (power cord, mounting brackets).
  • Inspect for physical damage (scratches, worn connectors).
  • Make sure you can factory reset it and change all passwords after purchase.

5. Is it worth paying extra for a new security camera?

It depends on your budget and how much risk you’re willing to take. New cameras offer full warranties, the latest features, and guaranteed security, but they cost more. If you want reliability, long-term value, and no privacy concerns, new is the better option. If you just need a budget-friendly backup camera, refurbished might work.