How to Install Security Cameras Without Drilling

Renters, apartment dwellers, and anyone who hates holes in walls—you can install security cameras without drilling.
Here’s how.

For camera recommendations, see our guide to Best No-Subscription
Security Cameras.

No-Drill Mounting Options

Method	Best For	Weight Limit	Removable?
Magnetic Mounts	Metal surfaces	1-3 lbs	Yes
Adhesive Strips (3M)	Walls, glass, smooth surfaces	1-5 lbs	Yes (Command strips)
Gutter/Eave Clamps	Outdoor overhangs	3-5 lbs	Yes
Twist Mounts	Light fixtures, posts	1-2 lbs	Yes
Freestanding/Shelf	Indoor tabletops	Any	Yes

Method 1: Adhesive Strips (3M Command)

3M Command strips are the go-to for no-drill mounting. They hold 1-5 lbs depending on size and remove cleanly.

How to Use:

1. Clean the surface with rubbing alcohol
2. Apply adhesive strips to camera mount base
3. Press firmly against wall for 30 seconds
4. Wait 1 hour before attaching camera
5. To remove: pull tab straight down slowly

Tips:

• Use outdoor-rated strips for exterior use
• Don’t use on textured surfaces (stucco, brick)
• Temperature extremes reduce adhesion

Method 2: Magnetic Mounts

Many cameras (like Blink, some Eufy models) have magnetic bases. Attach a metal plate to the wall, and the camera
snaps on magnetically.

Best for:

• Metal doors, filing cabinets, appliances
• Flexible repositioning (just pull off and move)
• Indoor use primarily

Limitation:

Magnets can be defeated—someone could just pull the camera off. Not ideal for accessible outdoor locations.

Method 3: Gutter and Eave Clamps

These clamps grip onto gutters, soffits, and vinyl siding without any drilling.

Products to Look For:

• Wasserstein Gutter Mount: $15-25, fits most wireless cameras
• Koroao Siding Mounts: Hooks into vinyl siding gaps

Installation:

1. Attach clamp to gutter lip or siding
2. Tighten thumb screws
3. Attach camera to mount plate
4. Adjust angle

Method 4: Window Mounts

For looking outside from inside, suction cup or adhesive window mounts let you point a camera through glass.

Limitations:

• Night vision may reflect off glass (disable IR, use color night vision)
• Motion detection may trigger on indoor movement
• Glass reduces image clarity slightly

Method 5: Freestanding Placement

The simplest option—just set the camera on a shelf, table, or windowsill.

Best cameras for freestanding:

• Wyze Cam v3: Flat base, stands on its own
• Blink Mini: Compact, tabletop-friendly
• Eufy Indoor Cam: 360° rotation on flat base

Camera Types for No-Drill Install

Camera	Weight	Best No-Drill Method
Blink Outdoor	2.4 oz	Adhesive, magnetic
Ring Stick Up	4.8 oz	Adhesive (outdoor strips)
Eufy Cam	8 oz	Gutter clamp, heavy-duty adhesive
Wyze Cam v3	3.5 oz	Freestanding, magnetic plate

Outdoor No-Drill Considerations

• Weather: Use outdoor-rated adhesives; indoor strips fail with moisture
• Temperature: Extreme cold reduces adhesive strength
• Weight: Heavier cameras may need mechanical mounts (clamps)
• Security: Adhesive-mounted cameras can be stolen more easily than screwed-in ones

When You SHOULD Drill

No-drill methods have limits. Consider drilling if:

• Camera is heavy (over 1 lb)
• Location is windy
• Security is a major concern (theft prevention)
• Surface is textured (stucco, brick, rough wood)

Verdict

For indoor cameras: Freestanding or adhesive strips work perfectly.

For outdoor wireless cameras: Gutter clamps or heavy-duty outdoor adhesive.

For renters: Stick to lightweight cameras (under 8 oz) with Command strips.

For camera recommendations, see: Best No-Subscription Security
Cameras.