Do you intend to installing a security cameras system to improve the security of your home? Before you go camera shopping, read this first.
Consider the following scenario: you return home from a long day at work and notice that your front door has been broken into. You are immediately overcome with anxiety and fear, and you begin to wonder how this could have happened. Could it have been avoided?
Home security is more important than ever in today’s world. Installing security cameras is one of the best ways to protect your home. But before you start shopping for cameras, there are a few things you need to know.
How to Choose the Right Security Camera
Not all security cameras are the same. When shopping for a camera, you should consider your specific requirements. Do you require coverage indoors or outdoors? Do you require night vision? How significant is video quality?
Answering these questions will assist you in narrowing down your options and selecting the best camera for your needs.
Avoiding common home security blunders can mean the difference between a secure home and a break-in.
1. Smart or Traditional Security Cameras?
Security cameras have been around for decades, but smart security cameras are a recent development. So, which should you choose?
Traditional Security Cameras
The most basic option is traditional security cameras. They are typically less expensive and relatively simple to set up. All you have to do is point the camera in the desired direction and plug it in.
However, these security cameras lack the advanced features found in smart cameras. They also cannot be controlled remotely, so you must be present to monitor them.
Smart Security Cameras
Smart security cameras are a more recent and advanced option. They are typically more expensive than dumb cameras, but they provide a plethora of additional features.
Many smart cameras, for example, include facial recognition to distinguish between a family member and a stranger. They also frequently include two-way audio, allowing you to listen in and converse with whoever is in front of the camera. Most smart cameras can also be controlled remotely, allowing you to monitor your home even when you are not present.
With so many smart home security systems on the market, deciding which one is best for you can be difficult. However, knowing your needs and conducting research can help you find the ideal system for your home.
2. Indoor or Outdoor?
Another important factor to consider is whether you require an indoor or outdoor camera. An indoor camera will suffice if you only need to monitor activity inside your home. If you want to see what’s going on outside your house, you’ll need an outdoor camera.
Outdoor cameras are built to withstand the elements, so they are usually weatherproof and can be installed almost anywhere. They are, however, more expensive than indoor cameras.
3. Wired or Wireless?
Your next decision will be whether to get a device that physically connects to your security center or one that can be accessed via Wi-Fi.
Wired Security Cameras
Wired cameras are more reliable because there is no risk of signal loss or interruption. They are also typically of higher quality because they connect directly to the internet. However, wired security cameras can be more difficult to install and are less flexible in terms of placement than wireless cameras.
A wired security camera will also require a power source, so keep that in mind when deciding where to place the camera. And if you lose power and your security system does not have backup power, your cameras will stop working.
Wireless Security Cameras
Wireless security cameras are much easier to install because there is no need to run wires through your walls. They’re also more adaptable in terms of placement because they can be placed anywhere there’s a Wi-Fi connection. Most wireless security cameras are also battery-powered or solar-powered, so they don’t need to be plugged in.
However, wireless installing security cameras are more prone to signal problems, and video quality is not always as good as with a wired connection. Another disadvantage is that battery-powered cameras are more expensive, and solar-powered cameras must be placed in an area with plenty of sunlight.
4. Storage Options
When it comes to storage, there are two choices: cloud storage or local storage.
Storage in the Cloud
If you want to be able to access your footage from anywhere, cloud storage is an excellent option. Most cloud storage plans are subscription-based, which means you must pay a monthly fee.
Cloud storage, on the other hand, is typically more secure because it is off-site. As a result, even if your camera is stolen, your footage will be secure.
Local Storage
If you want to be able to access your footage without an internet connection, local storage is a good option. The majority of local storage options make use of a microSD card, which can be inserted into the camera.
The disadvantage of local storage is that you cannot access your footage if the camera is damaged or stolen. And, unless the memory card has overwrite capabilities, you’ll have to delete some of your older footage to make room for new footage if it fills up.
5. Compatibility
Another consideration is compatibility. If you already have a home security system, make sure the security camera you choose is compatible with it.
Most security cameras are compatible with standard home security systems, but it’s always a good idea to double-check. You should also check that the camera is compatible with your smart devices. This way, you can view your camera’s footage on your phone or tablet.
If you’re handy with technology, you can create your own security system.
see also: Xiaomi Smart Door Lock M20: Secure Your Home with Advanced Technology
What about compatibility with smart homes?
If you have a smart home, make sure the Installing security cameras you select is compatible with your smart home devices. This way, you can control the camera and view the footage using your smart devices.
For example, if your security camera is linked to your smart home system, you may be able to view the footage on your TV. If the camera is compatible with a smart speaker like the Amazon Echo, you may be able to control it with your voice.
This can be an excellent way to monitor your home while you are away.
A Safer Home
A security camera can be an excellent deterrent to criminals while also keeping your home safe. Just make sure to keep these factors in mind when selecting one.
If you do, you will be able to find the ideal security camera for your home.
