There are many tools to protect your home inside and out. Surveillance cameras are one of the more popular tech tools keeping homes safe and sound. Today’s cameras are equipped with smart and proactive security features to make home surveillance stress-free and simple. We created this buyer’s guide filled with tips and our top recommendations to help you pick the perfect security camera.
Understanding different types of security cameras
Outdoor security cameras include a number of built-in features for your safety and convenience. But, there are a few essential specifications to look for when choosing a security camera. If you’re leaning towards a monitored system, start by comparing providers and offers to pick the perfect one for your home.
Wireless vs. wired security cameras
Wireless cameras are easy to install and reposition, but you’ll want to check the battery levels periodically to ensure they’re fully powered. Some battery-operated outdoor security cameras require a small hole to mount the camera outside. Other wireless surveillance cameras come with adhesive mounting tools free from drilling and easy to remove from rental properties. Wired security cameras may require professional installation and drilling to connect it to a power outlet to power the security camera recording system.
DIY vs. monitored security camera systems
Do-it-yourself (DIY) home security systems can be cost-effective and convenient with online portals and smart technology. But, keep a few facts in mind. Most DIY surveillance systems don’t automatically connect 24/7 monitoring services to always keep you alert. Some come with limited support and may be more expensive in the end. Monitored home security systems from leading providers offer automatic emergency notifications and services even when you’re away. Your home is always connected to a service to control and support your safety concerns with ease.
Top surveillance camera features to consider before buying
High-definition (HD) video quality
The higher the camera resolution, the sharper the images. Ideally, you’ll want a 1080p or higher resolution for the best view. Keep in mind that if you connect your camera to a digital video recorder (DVR) to record your camera’s footage, it will also need to be HD compatible to have crystal clear photos and videos.
Night vision
Clear night vision is one of the most important features for outdoor security cameras. To get the best and brightest night view, consider a camera with infrared (IR) technology to sending bright light through wavelengths. The number of infrared LEDs used in a camera determines how far your outdoor security camera will be able to clearly show what’s outside your home. Look for surveillance cameras that have at least 100 feet or better of night vision. Many models also have a built-in IR cut-switch that automatically enables and disables the infrared technology depending on the lighting conditions.
Pan, tilt and zoom function
Cameras with remote-controlled pan, tilt, and zoom functionality are ideal for providing coverage to larger areas and allow the user to get the best viewing angle possible without physically repositioning the camera.
Mobile device remote control
Many outdoor security cameras available today are able to live stream a feed directly to your mobile device. If you want to be able to check in during the day or while away for extended periods, this is a valuable feature to have. Be sure to choose a camera that is compatible with your device. Generally, remote access, mobile alerts or cloud-based features require monthly or yearly fees with your home security monitoring provider.
Weather resistance
Every outdoor security camera should have some degree of safeguarding against the weather and the outdoors. There are models to suit every type of climate whether rainy, freezing, high temperature or heavy winds. Look for a hood that protects the lens so that it’s not obstructed by precipitation. In addition, some come with thermostatic controls, which allow the camera to heat or cool to prevent condensation from forming over the lens and obscuring its sight.
Outdoor security camera FAQs
How does video surveillance security work?
A surveillance security system will typically consist of several cameras connected—either hardwired or wireless— to a digital video recorder (DVR), which records the images and displays them on a monitor.
How much home security camera coverage is needed?
The camera’s viewing angle determines how much space the camera will cover. Wide-angle lenses reduce the number of cameras required to monitor your home. Some outdoor security cameras have a wide-angle lens that may show a 360-degree view, but the best security cameras have a view of at least 100 degrees or better.
How does a video surveillance camera system work?
A surveillance camera security system connects several security cameras to a digital video recorder (DVR), which records the images and displays them on a monitor. The monitor may be a closed circuit television (CCTV) to easily be monitored from the home. Or, the DVR can send the images to a mobile device, where they can be seen live or played back on demand.
What’s the best outdoor security camera design?
There are two outdoor security camera designs – dome or bullet-shaped. The dome-shaped outdoor security camera is known to be less obvious to unwelcome visitors because they offer a 360 swivel that makes it difficult to determine their direction. On the other hand, bullet-shaped cameras are more common. They have a cylinder shape that clearly stands out to alert thieves that your home is under surveillance.
How does home security camera video storage work?
If you want to playback your home’s outdoor activity, you’ll need a camera with onboard video storage or cloud recording capabilities. Most cameras with recording capabilities have a built-in secure digital (SD) or microSD slot that allows for sufficient recording space. Once the memory card is full, you’ll need to delete footage or store it elsewhere. Some popular cameras automatically override expired videos, which may not be most ideal if you need to keep a video.
On the contrary, some security camera providers offer cloud storage monthly plans to securely store videos on the cloud. You can easily access them anytime, anywhere by signing into your account on your mobile device or using a mobile app.
Some systems also record to DVD or mini-disc, but most are now transitioning to DVR (digital video recorder) technology. A computer-based camera system records your video to the PC’s hard disc, making it fast and easy to review your video history.
What energy saving features are available?
Surveillance cameras can eat up a lot of energy. It’s important to find an outdoor security camera that only records when motion is detected to cut electricity costs or battery usage. Many models will even send mobile notifications when something out of the ordinary is detected.
Benefits of outdoor security cameras
Convenient control
Today’s surveillance cameras pair with mobile apps to control your security camera using your mobile device. You’ll automatically receive notifications when the camera’s power is disrupted or motion is detected. You’ll even be able to view real-time video, record, and review directly from your smartphone.
24/7, 365 Home Surveillance
Whether day or night, your security camera system is designed to watch other your home even when you’re away. It’s powered to automatically detect and alert you of any activity.
Improved safety
You’ll find comfort in always knowing what’s going on at your home without stepping outside. The recorded footage from an outdoor security camera will create a backlog of activity to review anytime and stay in the know. Most smart outdoor security cameras also send automated mobile alerts and show on-demand activity so you’ll always know who’s at your home. Some cameras can trigger the siren or speak to visitors using the mobile app for your protection against potential danger outside your door.
