With the increasing need for home security, choosing the right home security camera that meets your specific security needs is essential. However, the challenge lies in the abundance of models available in the market, leaving homeowners needing clarification on the factors to consider when purchasing. This buying guide aims to tell you how to choose best home security cameras and help you understand their different types, innovative features, and installation considerations.

Why Need Security Cameras for Home?

Security cameras are essential for your property for several reasons. You need to buy security cameras for your property for several reasons. First, visible security cameras can be a powerful deterrent to potential burglars and intruders. If they notice the presence of these devices, they may think twice before attempting break-ins or vandalism.

Secondly, security cameras can record events and incidents and provide crucial evidence in case of a crime, accident, or dispute. This documentation can be valuable for insurance claims and legal purposes. Most importantly, home security cameras can help ensure the safety of family members, particularly children, older people, or individuals living alone. They allow you to check in on loved ones and respond to emergencies.

Guide to Choosing Home Security Cameras: Key Factors to Consider

When choosing the security camera for your home, you need to consider several factors to ensure it meets your home defense requirements.

Number

The first thing you should decide is the number of security cameras needed for your home. You should check the size of your property before purchasing. In most cases, larger properties may require more cameras to cover all entrances, windows, and outdoor areas adequately. In contrast, smaller properties may need fewer cameras. Consider the security camera system your first option if you need multiple cameras.

Video Quality

Consider the captured footage’s clarity. The video quality of modern security cameras is measured in resolution. Higher-resolution cameras produce sharper and more detailed images. Clearer footage will allow for better identification of individuals or objects within the video footage.

Field of View

The field of view (FoV) of modern security cameras represents the area the camera can capture in a single frame. A wider FoV may capture more space, but it might sacrifice detail, while a narrower FoV may provide more detail in a specific area but cover less overall. Common FoV ranges for fixed-lens cameras are between 70 and 120 degrees. And wide-angle cameras have FoVs ranging from 100 degrees to 180 degrees or more.

Night Vision Capability

Effective home defense should not be limited to daylight hours. Therefore, you should also check the night vision capabilities of the chosen model. Cameras equipped with infrared (IR) LEDs can capture clear footage even in low-light or complete darkness, and some advanced cameras also can capture colors at night.

Recording and Storage Methods

There are two standard options for modern security cameras to record and store video footage: local storage and cloud-based storage. Local storage options for home security cameras without subscription include SD card, Network Attached Storage (NAS) devices, external hard drives, and Network Video Recorder (NVR).

Cloud-based storage means storing the footage on the remote cloud server, and you can access the video clip from anywhere with an Internet connection. But in most cases, cloud storage requires a subscription plan, which may increase your budget.

App

To realize the daily monitoring and control of your camera, you’d better choose a brand that has its proprietary app. The compatible app lets users conveniently manage and interact with their security cameras using smartphones, tablets, or other mobile devices. You can watch the live video streaming, play back the recordings, and adjust camera settings via the app.

Price

The price will also significantly affect choosing your security cameras. The general rule is that high-quality cameras will cost more, and you must balance cost and coverage. You can set a budget plan before buying.

Placement and Installation

You also need to consider the optimal locations for camera placement and installation. Ideal areas to place security cameras include the front door, back door, garage, driveway, living room, kitchen, and any other areas of security concern. You can choose easy-to-install models, such as wireless home security cameras if you have no installation expertise. The installation of PoE cameras and NVR may require extra time and effort.

Innovative Features of Best Home Security Cameras

Home security cameras are vital in crime prevention and home safety. The innovative features of modern security cameras have improved the quality of surveillance footage and provide homeowners with enhanced security levels.

High Resolution

One significant advancement in modern security cameras is capturing high-resolution footage. Modern surveillance cameras offer unparalleled clarity and rich details in video clips. They can capture even the minutest aspects with exceptional precision. The resolution of modern cameras ranges from 1080p Full HD to 4K Ultra HD and beyond (such as 12MP). The high-definition footage makes identifying faces, objects, and activities easy.

Color Night Vision

Modern security cameras have improved night vision capabilities. They can capture clear footage in low-lit environments or complete darkness. They come with infrared (IR) technology, larger image sensors, and supplementary devices like spotlights. All these devices work together to produce images without visible light. Many manufacturers have introduced full-color night vision without the help of spotlights and bring vivid colors to nighttime surveillance.

Artificial Intelligence

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) has also revolutionized the capabilities of modern security cameras. AI-powered security cameras can now identify and track objects, detect abnormal activities, and send real-time alerts to homeowners. For example, Al algorithms enable cameras to detect and track specific things or movements within the monitoring area. Whether it’s a person, vehicle, package, or pet, the cameras can automatically analyze the scene and provide real-time data to homeowners.

Remote Monitoring and Control

Modern security cameras often come with a compatible app. This mobile application or software lets you monitor and manage your security cameras. For example, you can check in on your home or business from anywhere with an internet connection remotely and access previously recorded videos and events captured by your security cameras. You can control camera functions remotely using the app, such as adjusting the camera’s pan, tilt, and zoom (PTZ) settings, changing camera modes, and more.

Smart Home Integration

Modern security cameras can be seamlessly integrated with smart home ecosystems. You can easily connect your smart home security camera to Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, or other home automation platforms (depending on the specific models). Through these platforms, homeowners can control their cameras using voice commands.

Cost of Home Security Cameras

The cost of security cameras can vary depending on several factors, including the equipment and installation expenses. Regarding the equipment, modern security cameras come in a wide price range, but on average, indoor cameras typically cost around $100, while outdoor cameras tend to be closer to $200. But if you search on online shopping platforms, like Amazon or eBay, you can find offerings under $50 and some high-end models over $300. Security camera systems range from $200 to $800, depending on different models and brands.

If you hire a professional team for camera installation, it will cost about $100 more. However, you can install the camera yourself, and all you need to do is gather some necessary tools and read the installation instructions before starting.

Bonus Tips: Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing Security Cameras for Home

Choosing security cameras requires careful consideration. For those who are not familiar with security cameras before, they make some mistakes, just as the following ones.

Choose the Cheapest Option

While budget is a consideration, opting for the cheapest cameras without considering their features and reliability can lead to poor performance and costly replacements in the long run.

Overlook Image Quality

Image quality matters for effective surveillance. Don’t compromise on resolution. Higher-resolution cameras capture more detail, which can be crucial for identifying individuals and events.

Forget about Privacy Laws

Installing security cameras should strictly obey the state or local privacy laws. Ensure your camera placement and usage comply with these laws, especially if the cameras capture public areas or neighboring properties.

Neglect Connectivity

Some users purchase IP cameras but need help to ensure a reliable Internet connection. If you choose WiFi cameras, test the WiFi signal within the installation area for optimal performance.

Not Consider Future Expansion

Think about your future needs. If you plan to expand your security system, choose cameras and a system that can accommodate additional devices. You can buy different models from the same brand if you need multiple devices.