Your Ultimate Home Security Camera Guide 2023

Why do you need a home security camera?

The fact that a security camera can provide peace of mind is one of the most important reasons to purchase one. A home security camera system can help you capture important details, such as a license number, that may allow law enforcement to more easily apprehend a suspect.

The level of protection you desire will determine whether you need or not a home surveillance camera.

How many security cameras will you need?

The size of your house will determine the number of cameras you require. It’s recommended to place at least one camera near the entrance of your house. It is also customary to install outdoor cameras at all entrances on the ground floor.

Installing security cameras on the second floor or in the main halls will provide you with additional security. You may choose to skip the bathroom and bedroom due to privacy concerns.

Types of security cameras

It’s important to know the types of cameras available before you begin shopping for one.

Video Doorbell Cameras

This outdoor camera is a popular choice. It replaces the traditional doorbell by one with a built-in camera. The camera starts recording when it detects movement or the doorbell is pressed. Some video doorbells feature two-way audio through your smartphone or smart speaker. If you do not answer the doorbell, the video doorbell can record the interaction to be reviewed later. Installing them is usually easy, even for DIYers with some experience. Some models require batteries but most can be hardwired.

Outdoor Cameras

Wireless and wired outdoor cameras are both available. They are usually mounted on a house or other nearby structures. Hardwired outdoor cameras are hardwired directly into the electrical system of your home. Wireless cameras are usually powered by batteries or plugging them into the wall.

Indoor Cameras

Indoor cameras, available both wired and wirelessly, are ideal for people who are most interested in what happens inside their home when they are away. Indoor cameras require an internet or WiFi connection and are typically plug-in devices.

Wireless Cameras

Wireless cameras are available for both indoor and outdoor usage. They connect to WiFi networks and store footage on the cloud. They are easier to install because they do not require a cable. You can also find indoor cameras with special features, such as cameras that give treats to pets or cameras for babies that measure temperature and air quality.

Floodlight Cameras

They are outdoor cameras that have floodlights which turn on with the camera. They can capture better video, particularly at night. Wireless cameras can be powered from an outlet or hardwired into existing lighting.

What to consider when buying a home security camera

You should consider a few factors when buying a surveillance camera for your home:

Installing home security cameras is easy. Simply connect them to WiFi and start the installation. Some cameras, particularly those that are part of larger security systems for the home, may require professional installation. Consider your level of tech knowledge when selecting a home surveillance camera.

App: Your home surveillance camera should come with an app that is easy to use. This will allow you to remotely control the camera and receive timely notifications. Before making a decision, check the reviews and ratings of the app on iOS or Android.

Durability is important when using outdoor security cameras. Make sure your camera can withstand extreme weather conditions and temperature changes.

Connectivity: Determine if your camera is WiFi-enabled and, if it is, which type of network. You should also check the connectivity of other ports and docks. You will be able to determine if you have the necessary structure in place to connect your camera.

Not all cameras have the same power source. Some cameras are rechargeable, while others need batteries. Solar panels are often used on outdoor cameras. It is important to understand the power options as they can cause problems with your installation.

The Best Security Camera Features

You can keep your property safe with many security camera features. There are some key security camera features that you should look for, regardless of the brand:

Image quality: Installing a home surveillance camera is pointless if the video footage is grainy or fuzzy. You should look for a camera with at least 1080p or full HD resolution. Some cameras have even better resolutions, such as 2K or 4.

Field of view: You want to choose a camera that has a wide angle lens. You want a camera with a wide-angle lens that can show you both left and right as well as straight ahead. You could achieve the same result with a camera that has pan and tilt capability.

Night vision: Check that your outdoor camera has night vision. Home security cameras may use infrared REF or a bright white light to provide night vision. Consider reading up on the best night-vision cameras available if night vision is an important feature for you.

Indoor and outdoor cameras both should come with built-in speakers or microphones that allow them to communicate to anyone looking at the camera. Most security cameras today come with two way audio.

Storage and recording: Some security cameras have built-in or micro-SD cards for local storage. The footage will be stored locally, and you’ll require a separate device in order to view it. Cloud video storage automatically uploads the footage to a cloud server that you can access from your smartphone.

Integration of smart home devices: Alexa, Google Assistant and other voice assistants can be used to communicate with your home alarm system. Smart home integration: Cameras that are integrated with smart devices will give you greater control of your system.

Geofencing uses the location of your smartphone to automatically arm the camera when you leave and disarm it when you return.

Alerts: Security camera features should include instant alerts to your smartphone. The majority of new security cameras send instant notifications when there is movement, an intruder or if the camera was disarmed.

Installing Security Cameras

Installation of home security cameras is dependent on several factors. Installing a wireless security camera involves placing it on a flat, level surface or screwing into the wall or ceiling. Connect it to your WiFi and finish the setup using a smartphone.

You may need to test your outdoor cameras, since you’ll want to make sure they are connected via WiFi.

Installing wired cameras is more difficult. Some cameras require only to be plugged in a power outline. Other cameras need to be hooked up to the electrical system in your home. These cameras usually require professional installation.

The majority of home security cameras can be installed by a non-technician. DIY installation involves following the instructions on an app.

Download the Security Camera App.

Create a new account.

Connect the device to an electrical outlet.

Add the device to your app.

Name the device according to its location.

Connect the camera to your WiFi network.

Test the motion detection or person detection system.

Link compatible devices to the camera (optional).