We all want homes that are safe and secure. Fortunately, we live in the 21st century and have access to some remarkable technology including home security cameras.
If you’re looking to protect your home, security cameras are the way to go. They are a great deterrent for break-ins and an excellent way to monitor what’s happening in and around your house. They’ve also become increasingly popular, as evidenced by the numerous options available on the market today.
But how do you know which home security camera is the best for you and your family? Well, unless you love rolling the dice when you’re out shopping, you’ll want to consider some different factors before making a decision.
Here’s some handy information to get you started.
What’s the difference between indoor and outdoor security cameras?
Outdoor cameras must be robust enough to withstand changes in temperature and a variety of weather conditions. And when it comes to indoor cameras, most people prefer devices that easily blend into their home/decor. You don’t want anyone to be aware that they’re being recorded. After all, intruders are notoriously camera shy!
Are wireless security cameras reliable?
It’s important to consider what kind of “juice” a camera needs to operate. Does it rely on batteries or does it require a power source? You might face constraints as to where you can place a camera that needs a power source. Conversely, batteries obviously have a limited life. We can say with a moderate degree of confidence that a dead camera isn’t incredibly useful. It’s not a case of which is best, but which type better suits you.
Do security cameras have audio?
Some cameras do indeed offer audio surveillance as well as imagery. Some options will simply have a microphone that allows them to capture sound. Others can both capture and emit sound, turning them into an intercom of sorts with two-way audio.
Do security cameras require WiFi?
Like the vast majority of technology today, many security cameras available have WiFi capability. This is great for a handful of reasons including the fact that this makes it harder to disable them. Moreover, most cameras with WiFi allow you to turn your house into a smart home. They can integrate with Amazon and Google and even potentially let you remotely lock your door, control your lights, etc. Some cameras also have companion apps that allow you to view live streams and send email/text alerts.
How do you access your video footage?
Though some cameras come with microSD cards, many models don’t store their footage themselves. Instead, they rely on cloud services for storage and offer you remote access. Keep in mind that not all storage is alike. Some might save footage for a month, others only a week. Additionally, you may have to pay a subscription fee for the cloud service. It’s important to consider that when pricing your options.
What is the best security camera?
It’s all about which security camera suits you and your home. Your lifestyle or comings and goings may require a set of specifications. What you need are options. That’s why we’ve done the actual work of research and pulled together some top picks.
These are the best security cameras in 2024.
