Keep Your Home Secure with Security Cameras

Discover the differences between each type of home security camera. Learn more about several of the top home security cameras for 2022.

One of the most effective ways to keep your home safe is with a security camera. Home security cameras are not new devices, but the technology has undergone many developments. Not only are the cameras more effective, but they are easier to place and significantly less expensive compared to older systems. The biggest change to home security cameras was the introduction of IP cameras. IP cameras use a secure online connection, allowing you to view the live feed from a computer or phone. These cameras also include real-time alerts, letting you know if there is suspicious activity around your home.

Home security cameras are not only used to prevent intruders from breaking into your home. Many homeowners install a smaller camera on their door or porch, allowing them to keep an eye on packages. This is especially important if you commonly order online, as many thieves look for vulnerable houses where packages are normally left on the porch for many hours. 

Security Cameras vs Home Security Systems

While security cameras are a great way to monitor your home, they do not provide the same level of support as a home security system. The main difference between a standard security camera and a home security system is monitoring. With a home security system, your security company monitors your feeds and responses to any alerts. The security company is also responsible for installing and maintaining the cameras if repairs are necessary.

Home security systems are much more expensive than a traditional home security camera. Because home security cameras now include real-time alerts, security systems have fewer benefits. If you are normally busy during the day and cannot reliably access your feed, you may benefit more from a home security system.

Types of Home Security Cameras

There are several types of security cameras available. Today, most security cameras offer the same features, with the main difference being the size and shape of the camera. The most basic option is a box security camera. Despite being the largest type of camera, they are typically the least expensive. Box cameras are easy to spot, but this often acts as an advantage for homeowners. Thieves are less likely to target a home if they can see a visible security system.

Another option is a dome camera. Dome cameras are commonly used in commercial buildings because they are easy to mount on the ceiling. They have limited uses in homes, but mount particularly well to porches. The quality is similar to box cameras.

Bullet cameras are available in a number of sizes, but are most commonly known for their smallest models. They are easy to setup, but provide a limited view compared to larger cameras. Many bullet cameras are installed onto your doorknob, giving you a view of your porch and the front of your yard.

The last type of camera are PTZ, which stands for pan, tilt and zoom. PTZ cameras are controlled with a remote device, allowing you to shift the view of the camera. PTZ cameras are good if you want to cover a large area without purchasing multiple cameras. However, they are one of the priciest camera options.

Nest Cam

There are several variants of the nest cam available, with options for dome and box cameras. The nest cam features a magnetic base, making it easy to install. In addition to night vision, it also features a microphone and speaker. With a subscription service, you can get person, vehicle and animal detection. A membership also includes familiar face detection and the ability to store footage for up to a month. Nest cams cost between $120 and $175, with subscriptions costing $6 a month as of writing.

Reolink Argus 3

Reolink specializes in bullet cameras. The Argus 3 is an older model, but it performs as well as the newest bullet cameras and is significantly less expensive, costing around $100 to $125. Footage is stored on a microSD card, with options to save videos online if you purchase a subscription. It also includes a smart spotlight system. This will not only scare away intruders, but it illuminates your path in the evening. Reolink cameras are powered by a solar panel, so it may not be a good choice if you live in a shady area.

Sony SRG-300H

Sony has many security cameras available, but the SRG stands out as one of the top PTZ cameras. It has a smaller frame, which makes it easier to mount outside of your home. Not only does it offer dynamic range but it has powerful zoom options. The microphone uses digital noise reduction, which drowns out environmental sounds. The SRG normally costs between $1,600 and $1,700.

Blink Outdoor

If you are on a tight budget, Blink Outdoor is an excellent bullet camera. The camera is housed within a small, weatherproof case. The mounting bracket allows you to store it in a variety of places, including above your door or the top of your porch. All of the videos are stored locally on a USB storage device inside the camera. Despite using AA batteries, the camera boasts an impressive battery life, lasting for two years on average. Blink costs around $60 to $80. If you want cloud storage, you can pay a small $3 monthly subscription fee.