Security Camera Buying Guide: 11 Features You Shouldn’t Miss – Times of India

Smart security cameras and video doorbells have both become the most common security and security devices in modern times. These devices help users add an extra layer of security to their homes when they are away or monitor the surroundings at all times for any suspicious activities. There are many types of smart security cameras available in the market with a wide variety of features and use cases. For example, some security cameras allow users to use local storage space, some provide cloud storage. while some features are good night vision capabilities, some offer good motion detection. But, choosing the right security camera doesn’t have to be that complicated. The same applies to video doorbells.
So, to reduce the confusion of choosing the best possible smart security camera, we have compiled a list of features that are essential for you looking for a smart security camera or a video doorbell for home.
Motion detection
Things are speeding up. From smartphones to laptops, everything is about fast processing, so why compromise on speed when it comes to security cameras. Although the speed of a security camera depends largely on the strength and speed of the Wi-Fi, it is important that the camera has an active, fast and reliable motion detection feature and allows users to access their smartphones as soon as any motion is detected. Provide the ability to inform. from all around. The same applies to video doorbells that are basically designed for the exact same thing.
reliable smartphone app
While modern smart security cameras rely on online platforms and connectivity, apps are an important factor. So, make sure that the security camera you are buying has a dedicated and secure app. Plus, it provides all the basic features required for the camera to function properly.
compatibility
Another major thing that should be seriously considered is the compatibility of the cameras. It is important to understand that cameras are going to be an integral part of your day to day smart device system and it is important that both the smartphone or smart speaker/display is fully compatible with the cameras you plan to buy. are. And support all the features like instant notifications, you can pull up the live feed whenever you want, record a special video clip, etc.
proposals
High resolution is good, but don’t rush it. Many smart cameras and video doorbells support video recording up to 4K. However, you should always understand that higher resolutions have their drawbacks as well. For example, the file size will be much larger than the 1080p resolution. So, more storage will be required.
Also, some cameras, even though they are 4K cameras, will only record at that resolution if the Wi-Fi signal strength is that strong. So, it is better to go with 1080p camera which provides good quality output
storage type
Smart cameras usually come with two types of storage options – online and offline. Offline storage security cameras come with in-built storage space like smartphones and also provide a USB port for expanding it via external hard drive etc.
Online storage, on the other hand, comes with a subscription-based model, where users need to pay monthly or yearly for a particular plan based on the number of cameras, recording limits, and rolling and advanced detection features.
color night vision
You’re looking for a security camera or video doorbell and it’s almost useless if it doesn’t have night vision. Affordable cameras offer standard night vision, with some slightly more expensive ones offering color night vision support. If your budget allows, we recommend you to go with the color night vision option.
two way audio
We agree that imaging the sound coming out of a wall-mounted security camera is awkward, but it’s an important feature that should be considered. This feature allows users to have two-way communication from anywhere in the world just like a WhatsApp call, as long as the camera as well as your smartphone is connected to the internet.
in-built alarm system
If you are buying a security camera, look for one that offers an in-built alarm feature. This increases the chances of preventing any miscreant or intruder from entering your house even while sleeping at night.
field of view
Field of view (FOV) is another important factor to consider when buying a new security camera. It is important to understand that most cameras mention the word ‘360’ in the specification. Although this is an important feature, don’t confuse it with FOV. FOV simply means the area that the camera can see and monitor. Therefore, always look for something with at least a 110-degree FOV.
Pan, Tilt and Zoom
Pan, tilt and zoom are also a very important feature, especially if you want your camera to be more active and cover more ground outside your home. Or at least have features like motion tracking etc. This feature allows users to control the camera and monitor the surroundings using the app. This is an important feature, but it is not mandatory to have.
advanced detection
If you don’t want to end up waking up in the middle of the night because a dog has randomly passed around your house, look for a camera that offers advanced recognition features including animal detection, face detection , noise detection and more. Some cameras also offer smoke and gas detection features.

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