Before you buy a security camera system for your home or office, it’s important to know all the facts. Here is your ultimate security camera buying guide.
Security cameras account for up to 61% of smart home revenue. An indicator of increased interest by consumers due to technological advancements in the security market industry.
The increased number of ‘Do It Yourself’ (DIY) devices have led to increased competition in the market. The clash being between new market players and the old guard where the latter keep playing catch-up.
The increased choice makes it hard for consumers to know how to go about choosing the right security camera. Below is a security camera buying guide that will help you do just that.
Old-School Security Camera Belong in The Past
One should always go for the best option when buying security cameras. The first group of cameras out of contention would, therefore, be old school cameras.
Available smart-home options mean you don’t have to keep on buying Internet Protocol (IP) cameras anymore. Advanced cameras have improved functionality and are far easier to use.
What Do You Want Your Camera to Do for You?
You should ask yourself a number of questions;
- Do you intend for your camera to stay in one spot or will you be constantly moving it?
- Do you want the footage to be saved? If so, would you prefer to access it locally e.g. through a USB drive, or save in a cloud?
- Is the goal to protect your property or to do minimal indoor surveillance? e.g. on a pet.
- How much money are you willing to spend?
- Is access to the camera via a computer enough? Would you prefer added access through an app on your phone?
- Would you prefer a camera that can work with other devices to one that cannot?
- Do you want a standard-def clip in place of a high-resolution video feed? Are photos good enough instead of video?
There’s a vast number of cameras in the market, as Sentel Tech shows. This provides you with a variety of options in terms of price and features.
Knowing what you want from your camera greatly eases the process of choosing.
Connectivity
If you prefer DIY devices, chances are you are going to buy a Wi-Fi security camera. The camera will inevitably need a strong Wi-Fi network for proper functionality.
Thus, one should place the camera within range of a wireless access point or a router. Use a reliable network given any glitches in service will leave your property unmonitored.
The best wireless camera system would ideally be one that isn’t easily interfered with by other wireless devices. Nevertheless, if Wi-Fi reliability can’t be guaranteed, then the next best option would be a cellular security camera
Security Camera Buying Guide: What you need to know about Power
The fact that most cameras use a plug-in adapter limits the places you can place your camera. The limitation is due to the fact that the location of the power outlet gets to determine where you place the camera.
An alternative option would be to use battery powered security cameras that are rechargeable. You are thus, accorded greater freedom when it comes to choosing where to place your cameras.
Most security cameras, once purchased, come with hardware, magnetic bases, and built-in stands. The additional features help you to mount it on multiple locations with ease.
The Use of Apps
Most DIY security cameras can be accessed via apps on Android and iOS platforms. The same web apps can also be used on your PC or laptop to access the camera feed.
The direct access allows you to make changes to the settings when necessary. Security apps also help you make use of built-in camera features such as night-vision and sound/motion alerts.
A built-in microphone and speaker on the camera also allows you to speak to a person on your premises.
Video Features
An Internet security camera will facilitate live streaming as long as the internet access is maintained and the app is running. An important security camera buying guideline to follow would be to assess the video features on offer to see what works for you. If you fall into the group of people who wish to monitor their pets or their kids, then this isn’t the camera for you.
Another aspect to consider is that of quality. The effect of a high-quality video feed is that it swallows more bandwidth and could lead to glitches and lag.
The ideal security camera to go for would be one that offers you the option to switch between video resolutions. Such a feature enables you to switch from 1080p to 720p in case of lag times.
Storage of Footage
One could choose to either store their footage locally or settle for a cloud storage option. Storing your footage locally entails having the footage saved onto a USB drive or a memory card. Either decision works well but buying a security camera that offers both options helps you to have it both ways.
Cost Considerations
The amount of cash you to fork out to buy a specific camera largely depends on its features.
Expect most cameras to fall in the range of $150 to $200.
Camera Design
Security cameras usually have black or white finishes given they aren’t meant to be spotted easily. As a consequence, a wish to identify excellent design requires one to examine the cameras in closer detail.
Cameras with stands that allow you to pivot the camera are a good choice. The increased maneuverability enables you to capture footage from multiple angles. Magnetic backings can also be valuable, in that, they allow you to position the camera however you want.
Getting Security Cameras for Your Home or Business
The security camera buying guide described above covers all the aspects you need to know. Remember, the security of your business or home depends on how efficient the system is. Purchase the type of security camera that will protect you rather than one that will act as a security risk. Should you, however, have additional questions don’t hesitate to bring us on board.
We will help to make the process of settling on the right security camera an easier one. Moreover, all web services we provide won’t cost you a penny. You could also join our online business community to enjoy additional benefits.
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