HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST HOME SECURITY CAMERA
The first question you can ask yourself is a simple one: are security cameras necessary in the first place? And the answer depends on the level of security you want to add to your home or business. While sensors can detect motion, letting you know when doors or windows have been opened or closed, without cameras, you can’t actually see what’s happening at home.
Cameras that use Apple’s iCloud to store video and Eufy’s cameras store user footage through end-to-end encryption, so they can’t provide user footage to law enforcement even if they want to. Additionally, you can set up end-to-end encryption on some Ring devices, although by enabling this feature, you’ll be disabling many of the Ring camera’s other features.
Indoor or Outdoor?
When shopping for a home security camera, the first thing you’ll need to consider is whether you plan to mount the camera inside or outside. Only cameras that are designed to withstand the elements should be mounted outside your home.
Wired or Battery Operated?
With both indoor and outdoor cameras, you’ll also need to decide whether you want a battery-powered model or a plug-in model. The former are easy to set up, but you’ll need to recharge or replace their batteries every few months. , , (Some companies also make solar panels, which can extend life even further.) The latter may require you to install an outlet or drill a hole through your wall, but then you don’t have to worry about I don’t need to worry. is not needed. never happened
Video resolution
Don’t buy a security camera that has a resolution lower than 1080p. Some cameras can now even record in 4K, which not only means much sharper quality, but it also means you can zoom in and still see features clearly.
Local vs cloud video storage
You also want to think about what each home security camera offers in terms of video storage. Most will let you store videos in the cloud, but many require you to pay a subscription to do so. Some cameras have memory card slots, so you can save video locally; However, if someone steals the camera, you lose your recordings along with it. Be sure to check out our comparison to see which home security camera has the best storage plan.
person, animal and vehicle detection
A camera that can differentiate between people, animals and vehicles means you can get a better view of what’s going on; That way, you don’t have to open your camera app every time it senses something.
spot- or floodlight option
Some outdoor security cameras have built-in spotlights or floodlights; This not only makes it easier for the camera to see things, but also makes it easier for you to see outside your home in the dark.
smart home compatibility
Most security cameras will work with Alexa or Google Assistant to some degree. (less work with HomeKit). This means you can connect them to other smart home devices, so that the camera automatically turns off when you’re home, or starts recording when the motion detector senses something.
Some cameras will also connect to smart displays, such as the Echo Show 8, so you can view a live feed from the camera. While not an important feature, it is a nice feature to have, as it will prevent you from having to use your phone to see what’s on the camera.
How VP Security Solutions tests home security cameras
Our comprehensive testing methodology is based on VP Security Solutions expertise in testing cameras, TVs and other connected equipment. We focus our tests on how quickly the camera sends alerts to your smartphone when motion is detected – and for video doorbells, when you can see who’s ringing – as well as its video quality, smart features, Data privacy and data security. These factors can make or break your experience with wireless security cameras and video doorbells.
