You can benefit from networked security cameras in your home. Home security cameras are available in different shapes and sizes, with varying specifications to suit your needs. Before getting home security cameras, it is important to know the essential features of these cameras to help you choose the right one.
Important features to look for when choosing your home security camera are:
- Motion Sensing
The feature of motion sensing in cameras is important, especially if you want the camera to record suspicious activities when the camera is active. Instead of a camera that records at all times, you can get a camera that only records after sensing movement. Cameras that record 24/7 can fill up your cloud or local storage cloud quickly.
With motion sensing, you can get alerts on your computer or phone when the camera detects movement, a feature that most people consider more effective than audio sensing.
- Two-Way Audio
Your security camera should have a speaker that allows two-way communication between you and anyone in front of the camera. Even when you are not home, you can talk to anyone at your door.
- Field of View
Viewing angle or field of view is a key factor to consider when buying and installing your home security cameras. The camera’s viewing angle will determine where you will install the camera and the degree of visibility.
Cameras with a narrow viewing angle will capture less but give more detail because the object in the camera’s view will appear closer. On the other hand, cameras with a wider viewing angle make objects appear farther than they are, but you can have a larger viewing without rotating or repositioning the camera.
- Video Quality
Modern home security cameras have at least 720P resolution; some have resolutions as high as 1080p. Opting for a home camera with a higher resolution for better video quality is advisable. However, high-definition security videos have an issue. When you stream several 1080p feeds, you need higher home internet bandwidth, so ensure your internet can accommodate the high load.
- Power Source
Many home security cameras require you to plug them in a standard outlet, so you can place them anywhere, provided you have a long extension cord. Some home security cameras are battery-powered, increasing the possibility of positioning the camera in any location in your house, but this option requires recharging or replacing the batteries frequently.
- Infrared Mode or Low Light
Low-light cameras have image intensifiers that increase the visible light and create brighter images with more details. These cameras use the same technology as night-vision goggles but have some limitations. If there is no visible light, the amplification camera cannot capture any image. The camera may emit near-infrared energy to improve the camera’s effectiveness at night.
The thermal imaging cameras function differently. They do not require light but heat. These cameras can detect minute differences in infrared or thermal energy, showing the differences with varying grayness. The cameras with thermal imaging can function in darkness but lack color and finer details.