Protect your home with a security camera
With Christmas presents arriving right and left, package theft is even more of a risk at this time of year. While it can’t guarantee the return of stolen items, a good security camera can deter potential thieves and help the police identify and locate local Grinches. For DC residents, the Metropolitan Police Department even offers private security camera rebate and voucher programs if you register your system.
But which security system should you buy? With so many options, here’s the pros and cons of few of the leading models featured by Safewise.com’s Best Security Cameras of 2019.
Before we begin, some purchase parameters to consider:
Payment: As with any security system, it’s wise to consider how you want to pay for the service. Some systems require a monthly subscription fee, while others cost more up front but save you money in the long run.
Power: Security cameras are usually powered by one of three ways: connection to a power outlet, rechargeable batteries, or power-over-ethernet (PoE). While the first two are pretty straightforward, you may not be familiar with PoE systems, which use an ethernet cord to both send data and power the cameras. This means that a wire must run from outside to the recording system inside the house, which is a more expensive installation. That said, with a PoE system, homeowners don't have to charge any batteries and or worry about a plug hanging in front of the house that could easily be disconnected by a thief, and PoE systems typically can retain high-quality footage for 30-days or more. However, owners of battery-operated systems have reported that charging the batteries each month is a very easy task.
Data: Obviously we want to see what the camera is recording! Besides the PoE systems discussed above, there are several options here. Many new camera systems connect to your home’s WiFi network, but others may still rely on SD or other memory cards to store video and images which have to be downloaded to a computer before they can be saved.
Profile: Just because a security camera is functional doesn’t mean it can’t be classy! The traditional corner-mounted units are easy to spot from the street and may deter thieves sooner, but a low-profile camera doorbell blends seamlessly with modern exterior finishes. Additionally, some models are only intended for indoor use, so check the label!
Privacy: A security camera involves data collection, so check out what company owns the system you want to purchase. Some systems deliver the data directly to your personal hard drive or computer, while others are connected to a larger data collection infrastructure. Ring Doorbells, for example, have the option for a real-time “crime safety alert” system sharing data with neighbors and local police. Be aware how footage of your friends, family, and neighbors may be accessed and distributed.
Here’s a summary of some of the most popular consumer cameras on the market:
ARLO PRO
A wireless model suitable for indoor and outdoor use. Integrates with a smart home, but tends to have a hypersensitive motion detection and is on the more expensive end of the scale.
WYZE CAM PAN
Featuring smart motion tracking and 360 degree coverage, this system is perfect for a tight budget, although you will have to keep it plugged in.
CANARY ALL-IN-ONE INDOOR SECURITY CAMERA
The canary’s night vision may not be 20/20, but its siren, environmental sensor, and direct connection to emergency services make it qualify for home insurance discounts from many major insurance companies. Ideal for smart home integration.
RING SPOTLIGHT CAM
This wireless camera comes in battery or solar powered options and offers 2-way communication so you can speak to visitors even when you’re away from home. However, the price is steep and the batteries reportedly have a short lifespan.
REOLINK ARGUS 2 WIRELESS SECURITY CAMERA
I have Reolink PoE cameras installed at my house and couldn’t be happier with them. But if you are not ready to run wires through your home, the wireless (battery or solar powered) model featured by Safewise.com works equally well inside and out. Setting up each camera is only feasible with the Reolink app, but the email and push notifications, free video playback, and the built-in microSD card slot make it easy to view footage.
AMCREST PRO-HD INDOOR
For less than $100, Amcrest offers 2-way communication and free cloud storage. The rotation may be a bit limited once the camera is mounted, but it’s still a decent option.
AMAZON CLOUD CAM
For the Alexa and Amazon integration lovers out there, this is the camera for you. While the Cloud Cam does offer 24 hours of free video clip storage and multiple viewing options, it does require a Cloud Cam subscription.
GOOGLE NEST CAM INDOOR
Unsurprisingly, Google’s foray into the security camera market is anything but low-tech. The image, video, sound, and design aesthetic quality are high, as is the price tag.
YI DOME CAMERA
Probably the most charming of the options so far, the YI Dome filters out extraneous noise for clear audio and has no limit on cloud storage. However, the night vision is limited and there have been issues reported with Android users.
ABODE IOTA
A combo home security camera and security system, the Iota has the option to add professional monitoring starting at just $20/month, no contract required. Its petite profile means the security range is limited, but the 2-way communication, high video quality, and sensitive motion detection may just be worth it.
Conclusion
There are many security camera options out there, but I hope this list gives you a starting point for how to research and shop for the best system for your home and needs. I’m always happy to give a second opinion on whatever model(s) you’re considering, so please don’t hesitate to give me a call or send me an email! If you want to recommend a system to the Doméo DC Homes community, please leave a comment below.
PC: Courtesy Simp Tech Solutions