Compare Video Surveillance Software
Complete comparison of 9 popular surveillance solutions. Find the best option for privacy, cost, and features.
Comprehensive Market Research Updated Aug 2025
Our team analyzed 9 leading surveillance platforms through hands-on testing, user surveys, and market research. This comparison is built on extensive testing and market research across home and business environments.
| Software | Price | Platform | Privacy | Ease of Use | Cameras | Subscription | Open Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Guardian Eye Recommended | $0-49 | Win/Linux | Local | βββββ | Unlimited | No | No |
| Blue Iris | $69.98 | Windows | Local | βββ | Unlimited | No | No |
| ZoneMinder | Free | Linux | Local | ββ | Unlimited | No | Yes |
| Synology SS | $300+ | NAS only | Local | ββββ | Pay per cam | Per cam | No |
| iSpy | $8/mo | Windows | Cloud+Local | ββββ | Unlimited | Yes | Partial |
| Shinobi | Free | Linux/Docker | Local | ββ | Unlimited | No | Yes |
| Agent DVR | Free | Multi | Cloud+Local | βββ | Unlimited | Optional | No |
| Ring | $4-20/mo | Cloud | Cloud only | βββββ | Per cam | Yes | No |
| Nest | $6-30/mo | Cloud | Cloud only | βββββ | Per cam | Yes | No |
β Best for Privacy
Local-only storage means your footage never leaves your control:
- β’ Guardian Eye β Easiest local-only option
- β’ Blue Iris β Windows power users
- β’ ZoneMinder β Linux tech enthusiasts
π° Best Value
Lowest 5-year total cost of ownership:
- β’ Guardian Eye Free β $0 (1 camera)
- β’ ZoneMinder β $0 (complex setup)
- β’ Guardian Eye Pro β $49 one-time (unlimited cameras)
π Easiest Setup
Get running in under 10 minutes:
- β’ Guardian Eye β 5 minutes, desktop app
- β’ Ring/Nest β 5 minutes, but cloud-dependent
- β’ Blue Iris β 20-30 minutes
β οΈ Avoid If
Not recommended for privacy-conscious users:
- β’ Ring/Nest β Cloud-only, subscription required
- β’ iSpy β Subscription model, cloud push
- β’ Synology SS β Expensive hardware required
Detailed Comparisons
Guardian Eye vs Blue Iris
Cross-platform, cheaper, easier to use
Compare βGuardian Eye vs ZoneMinder
10x easier setup, native desktop app
Compare βGuardian Eye vs Synology
No expensive NAS required, save $400+
Compare βGuardian Eye vs iSpy
No subscriptions, better privacy
Compare βAll Alternatives
See all Guardian Eye comparisons
View all βChoosing Guide
How to choose the right software
Read guide βTry Guardian Eye Free
Test all features with 1 camera. No account, no credit card, no cloud required.
Download Free