Whether you install a surveillance camera at home or at your workplace, it offers many benefits. While many people believe that installing surveillance cameras is not necessary, experiencing their advantages firsthand can change their minds. If you're one of those individuals, here’s a guide to the best types of surveillance cameras you can purchase for an ideal experience.
The Best Types of Surveillance Cameras
In recent years, more people have realized the importance of having a surveillance camera at home to ensure the safety of its occupants. As time has passed, the best types of surveillance cameras have become more advanced, with various types available based on specifications and capabilities. Here are some of the top options:
Bullet Cameras
Named BULLNT due to their bullet-like shape, these cameras are designed in a cylindrical form and are mounted in a fixed direction, making them visible to onlookers. This visibility acts as a deterrent. They feature a small hood that protects the camera from weather conditions and are easy to mount on walls or ceilings. However, their main drawback is that they cover only one angle, which might necessitate purchasing multiple cameras to cover all areas, increasing costs.
Dome Cameras
DOME cameras have a spherical shape and are mounted on a circular base. Unlike bullet cameras, they offer a wider field of view and are more discreet, reducing the risk of tampering or vandalism. They can be installed on ceilings or walls and often come with features such as night vision, motion and heat detection, and the ability to connect to a network video recorder (NVR) or a digital video recorder (DVR). More features typically mean a higher price.
Wireless Cameras
Wireless cameras are among the best options for home surveillance because they don’t require cables to connect to computers. Instead, they can be connected to a mobile phone or a computer, making installation easy. They also have high motion detection capabilities.
Box Cameras
These cameras have a box shape with a lens that can be separated from the main body, allowing users to choose the type of lens they need. They are versatile and allow for adjustable viewing angles.
IP Digital Cameras
These cameras require a high level of technical skill for initial setup, but they are among the most popular and widely used due to their many advantages. They can send digital signals directly to a network video recorder (NVR), allowing users to view camera footage using an external device. Some models can record directly onto an SD card or a cloud recording server without needing an external recorder.
PTZ Cameras
PTZ cameras are some of the most advanced and modern surveillance cameras available. They allow users to monitor their homes or businesses remotely via a personal mobile phone. These cameras can be controlled online, with commands sent from a mobile phone, computer, or recording device to rotate, tilt, and zoom the camera. This makes them a preferred choice for many users.
Day/Night Cameras
Named for their ability to function at night without lighting, these cameras contain LED lights that improve the visibility of the monitored area without requiring clear lighting. More advanced models offer night vision using infrared lights, ensuring visibility even in low-light conditions.
Things to Consider Before Buying and Installing Surveillance Cameras
There are many types of surveillance cameras available, but you may find that not all meet your needs after purchase. To avoid this, consider the following before buying to find the right camera:
- If the camera will be placed outdoors, choose one that is weather-resistant.
- Opt for cameras with a wide-angle lens starting at 100 degrees to cover as much area as possible without needing additional cameras.
- If night-time recording is a priority, select a camera with infrared LED lights.
- Choose cameras with password protection for their apps to prevent hacking, and change the password after the initial setup.
- Ensure the camera has motion detection to start recording when motion is detected and store the footage for later access.
- Look for cameras that support two-factor authentication for added security, requiring an additional verification method such as a text message, email, or phone call to log in.
- Avoid the cheapest cameras as they may lack essential features and capabilities. Instead, seek cameras that offer high-quality visuals and good specifications within your budget.
By considering your specific needs first, you can choose the best surveillance camera for your home or workplace. Get the best types of surveillance cameras now with guaranteed quality and high efficiency.