Safety is a crucial concern today, whether at home or the office. Surveillance cameras can be extremely handy as they protect the property from intrusion, burglary, and theft. This is why CCTVs and surveillance cameras have become an absolute necessity for residential apartments and offices. However, choosing the right camera is crucial to ensure complete surveillance and protection. So here is everything you need to know before buying a surveillance camera:

Factors to consider when buying a camera

Consider the following features when buying security cameras for home or office:

Camera type: The first step is picking the right camera type—an analog or an IP camera. IP (Internet Protocol) cameras are equipped with powerful and advanced features compared with traditional analog cameras.

Storage: Consider the quality of videos you need to determine the storage space required. You can also access cloud storage solutions and local or internal storage options. There are three types of storage systems: DVR used with analog cameras, NVR used with IP cameras, and hybrid storage used with both camera types.

Resolution: The higher the resolution, the better the clarity of pictures and videos. Full HD (high-definition) resolution cameras with 2 megapixels are readily available. Some better options are Super HD with 4 megapixels or Ultra-HD with 8 megapixels.

Motion detection: Pick a camera that starts recording as soon as it detects movement. Smart detection helps you identify the source of motion.

Alerts and notifications: You should be able to customize your camera system to receive alerts on your mobile or tablet. You should also have access to a mobile app to view footage on your smartphone.

Night vision: When picking a camera for outdoor surveillance, ensure it comes with night vision. Most cameras work well during the day but are not as good at night. So, go for a camera with a night vision range of 50 feet or above.

Field of view: Go for a field view ranging from 130° to 180°. The wider the field of view, the fewer cameras you will need for your property.

Top picks

• 1. Arlo
     This is one of the leading companies in the country that offers home security solutions. Its Wi-Fi-enabled feature-rich cameras can be integrated into a smart home. It also has LTE-enabled and wireless cameras. Arlo first launched the Arlo Security Camera, and its latest offering is the Arlo Essential Indoor Camera—an AC-powered camera. A ton-notch surveillance tool, the Arlo Pro 3 home security camera is priced at $499.99.
  2. ADT

This is another well-known name in the surveillance camera industry. It offers solutions for small businesses and has three major ranges to pick from—dome, wireless, and indoor color cameras. It is often referred to as the “granddaddy” of security cameras. The ADT Smart Home Package is priced at USD 1,019 (nine pieces) and $1,219 (12 pieces).

• 1. Ring
     The company invented video doorbells and has now widened its range of products offering top-niche home security solutions. It is one of the fastest-growing companies for smart home security cameras. Ring 3.9 is suitable for the outdoors and priced at $199.99, while Ring 3.6, suitable for outdoors and indoors, is priced at $249.99.

You can find surveillance cameras for anything between $20 to $400, so pick a feature-rich one that works for your property.