Everyone knows it’s important to have a home security system in place. But is it really worth the extra investment to install home security cameras?
Across the country, millions of homeowners and renters believe so.
Why You Should Invest in Home Security Cameras
Proven to be an effective tool for crime prevention, security cameras act as immediate visual deterrents against trespassing, break-ins, and other forms of intrusion. And as tech developers continue to produce newer and smarter home security wireless cameras each year, the market has grown to include a variety of innovative, new camera types.
Nowadays, for instance, most continuous recording security cameras come with wifi capabilities, giving you the option to operate them remotely from your smart device for 24/7 access to your home surveillance. From simple wired surveillance systems to high-performance floodlight cams, the number of different security cameras and brands on the market continues to grow.
But don’t worry—we know the market well and have done the research for you. Here are the most important things to know before you buy a home security camera.
Best Brands
If you want a top-notch security system, you’ll want to purchase your security camera from a well-known, reliable brand. Sure, these might not be the cheapest options on the market. But you don’t want cheap when it comes to your safety—you want quality.
Look for brand names you recognize. And if you aren’t already familiar with popular security camera brands, here are a few that have been tested, vetted, and approved:
- Ring
- Arlo
- Lorex
- Canary
- Sony
- Zmodo
- Wyze
Features You Want in a Security Camera
Aside from brand name, you’ll also want to look into the various features and tech involved in each camera. These days, you can find an endless range of features available out there. But don’t let the large variety overwhelm you. Many features overlap, or come automatically with the camera.
Ask yourself some key questions about your surveillance needs to determine which features on the market are most relevant to you. For example, do you need a security camera equipped with night vision? Should it require batteries? How about weatherproofing? By considering questions like these, you’ll be able to narrow down your search.
Aside from the basic features, here are some examples of innovative new features that you should consider:
Fast Motion Activation
In cases of emergency, speed is of the utmost importance. The security camera you choose needs to respond the moment motion is detected, without hesitation. Of course, your wifi strength will invariably affect the functioning speed of your surveillance system. But still, it’s important to choose a security camera equipped with fast motion activation so that you’re alerted as soon as motion occurs. Motion activated video cameras are the best tool to keep your property secure.
Two-Way Audio
Do security cameras have audio capabilities? Recently, two-way audio has become a standard to expect in home security cameras. Even some of the least expensive cameras on the market, like Wyze Cam, offer two-way audio communication between cameras. Whether you use this feature as a convenient home intercom system for the family, or as a deterrent against crooks, two-way audio is essential if you want a high-functioning security system. So make sure you compare audio quality between cameras as you make your selection.
Pan-Tilt-Zoom (PTZ)
If you’re concerned about your system’s field of view, you have two options. On one hand, you could compare lens sizes between cameras. A narrow lens works best if you want your camera focused on a specific spot; meanwhile, a wide lens is better if you need a camera to monitor a large span of area. The second option is to just buy a camera with pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ). Pan-tilt-zoom cameras are able to rotate their mechanical lenses, giving you full panoramic views, regardless of lens size. PTZ cameras are great economical options, especially for an apartment or small home.
At Video and Sound Services, Inc., we help companies and homeowners find the best security systems available. Call us at (708) 562-6316 to discuss upgrading your security system.