Rebluum Wireless Outdoor Security Camera Review

How to Choose a Security Camera: A Buying Guide

Home security cameras have become a general need in recent years to protect and safeguard your property. Security shouldn't be taken lightly; you should try to find the most useful camera with excellent performance to have a heads-up in a potentially dangerous situation. There are a few things to consider when looking for a security camera to ensure you get the best value possible. In this buying guide, we'll share our list of the most important factors to look for when buying.

Resolution

Possibly the most crucial aspect, the camera resolution dictates the clarity of images the security camera will capture. A device with higher resolution delivers sharper images, allowing you to pick out finer details like faces or number plates. A common benchmark is HD (720p) or Full HD (1080p). However, if budget permits, you can get one that shows 4K resolution for unmatched clarity.

Field of View

A security camera's field of view determines the area it can cover. A wider field of view means the camera captures more area, reducing the number of cameras you need to install. Cameras with a field of view ranging from 120 degrees to 180 degrees are typically sufficient for most residential or small business needs.

Motion Detection

Security cameras with motion detection offer proactive security features. They can trigger recording and send alerts when motion is detected. Some even have customizable sensitivity to avoid false alarms from small pets or flitting shadows. This feature not only saves storage space but also lets you respond quickly to any suspicious activity.

Night Vision

What happens when the lights go out? That's when night vision steps in. Low-light situations are no match for cameras equipped with night vision. They utilize infrared LEDs to illuminate the field of view, allowing you to keep a watchful eye even in pitch darkness. Remember to check the effective range of the night vision.

Storage

Some cameras offer onboard storage via an SD card while others provide cloud storage options. While onboard storage can be limited and vulnerable to physical tampering, cloud storage usually requires a subscription, but offers unlimited space and accessibility from anywhere. Choose a storage option that best suits your needs and budget.

Audio Features

Security cameras with integrated microphones and speakers take surveillance to the next level by adding an audio dimension. These cameras not only record video but also capture sounds and even conversations. Furthermore, they make two-way communication possible, ideal for instructing a delivery person or deterring potential intruders.

Smart Home Integration

If you're already invested in smart home technology, choosing a security camera that integrates with your smart home ecosystem can simplify your life. Whether it's Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple's HomeKit, cameras that support these services can be controlled by voice commands and interact with other smart devices seamlessly.