I tried this inexpensive wireless security camera to upgrade my home security – here’s what I found

Keeping my home secure is a top priority, which is why I was keen to try one of the best security cameras to enhance my safety setup and give me peace of mind.

These devices are expensive as it is, and I've often been put off by the monthly subscription fees that most models require. That’s why it was refreshing to see that the Toucan Wireless Security Camera S4 doesn’t have one and comes with a relatively affordable price tag.

After reading that this model was wireless (a.k.a. no messy cables), had motion detection, and offered security alerts, I was eager to give it a go. To find out whether it lived up to these claims – and whether it's worth the investment – keep on reading.

Specifications

In terms of safety features, the Toucan Wireless Security Camera S4 ticks all my boxes, including night vision, smart lighting, motion detection and alerts, two-way talk, a siren alarm, and emergency calling. It can also be connected to your Google Home or Alexa devices.

Here's a breakdown of the specs:

First impressions of the Toucan Wireless Security Camera S4

I was impressed with the Toucan Wireless Security Camera S4 from the get-go – it was well packaged and had a high-quality appearance and feel.

Apart from a screwdriver for mounting, the device came with everything I needed to get started: the camera itself, a USB-C charging cable, three wall anchors, three mounting screws, a mount, and a printed user manual. You can also find the instructions online if you prefer, as well as helpful videos on Toucan's YouTube channel.

Since the camera is controlled via your phone, I also had to download the free Toucan app, but everything was very straightforward and easy to set up. I like how I can access the footage with a single tap, and that it’s all stored in the cloud so I don’t have to worry about backing up an SD card.

Setting up the Toucan Wireless Security Camera S4

If you’re a tech-phobe and hate the idea of reading through pages and pages of instructions, you’re going to love how simple this wireless home security camera is to install. It took no longer than 10 minutes to get it up and running, following these simple steps:

1. Install the app

• Download the Toucan app and set up your account.
• Tap the “+” button on the dashboard.
• Press the “SET” button on your camera and hold it until the LED light blinks.
• Follow the instructions in the app to connect to your camera.

2. Charge the camera

• Open the plug cover and insert the charging cable.
• When the LED turns a solid blue, the device is fully charged.

3. Mount the camera

• Mark the holes on your wall where you want the camera to go.
• Drill the holes and insert the wall anchors.
• Attach the mount using the screws.
• Attach the camera, twisting the tightening collar and ring.
• Tighten the mount.

Using the Toucan Wireless Security Camera S4

I've been testing this camera for months and have been impressed with its user-friendly design and reassuring security features.

I'm alerted whenever someone walks past the flat, which gives me peace of mind and helps me feel safe. You can even customise the trigger zone so you don’t get unwanted alerts from high-traffic areas – perfect for people who live on busy streets and only want specific notifications. If you don’t want to receive any alerts at all, you can also turn them off manually.

Another handy feature is the two-way talk, which lets you speak to someone at the door via a built-in microphone and speaker. Not only is this great from a security perspective, but it’s also incredibly useful if you have a delivery and need to give the driver instructions on where to leave your parcel.

However, if you have someone more menacing than a postie at your door, you can set a pre-recorded message or alarm to warn them that someone’s watching – all controlled from your phone, anywhere and at any time.

The 1440p video resolution isn’t outstanding, but it does the job for what I need and offers a 140° field of view. The camera also includes night vision which, again, isn’t the best quality and may not pick up all facial features, but I wouldn’t necessarily choose a different model because of this. However, I would avoid placing a security light behind or next to it, as this reduced the night-vision clarity for me.

Image credit: Future/Megan Milstead

The camera delivers excellent image quality in daylight

Image credit: Future/Megan Milstead

It doesn’t capture details well in night vision

Thanks to the IP56 weather-resistant design, you don’t have to worry about it getting too wet or too cold in your garden, and mine has held up well in all weather conditions. I hate the look of messy cables, so I was really happy that this camera is wireless (which also made installation easier).

While battery life will vary depending on usage, mine averages about a month per charge, and it only takes a couple of hours to power it back up again.

One of my favourite things about this camera is that it’s subscription-free – something I was particularly impressed with given its already affordable price. You can only review footage from the past 24 hours, but you do have the option to download clips to your phone so you can keep them forever.

Final verdict

If you’re looking for an affordable – yet reliable – security camera that helps you feel safe at home, I’d highly recommend the Toucan S4. It might not have the sharpest night vision, and you’ll need to remember to charge it, but these are minor drawbacks considering its security features and budget-friendly price.

It’s easy to use, quick to set up, and doesn’t require a costly subscription plan like most other security cameras. Measuring just 20 cm with a simple white-and-black design, I like how it looks on my wall, and the weather resistance makes it practical to use year-round.

If you buy multiple cameras, you can sync them together and monitor different parts of your property (inside or out) at the same time. Or, if you have an Alexa or Google Home, it integrates well with an existing home security system.

Before setting up this device, it’s worth reading up on where to place a security camera to make the most of your setup.