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Outdoor camera in Tuscaloosa
August 27, 2020

What To Ask For When Getting A Home Security Camera In Tuscaloosa

Many home security systems use at least one home security camera in Tuscaloosa. However, with many different brands and features for cameras, it's tricky to know what camera features really matter. Do you get one from a retail shop and set it up yourself? Or is it preferable to get your cameras installed by a professional? Should you insist on one that live streams in full HD? How do you choose between an exterior camera attached to the overhang or a doorbell camera?

To explore these questions and more, here is what you should look for in a Tuscaloosa home security camera.

Three types of security cameras in Tuscaloosa

3 Types Of Home Security Cameras in Tuscaloosa

There are mostly three different kinds of home security cameras in Tuscaloosa. Each one has a specific purpose and can easily be included with your residential security system:

  • Outdoor home security camera: These kinds of cameras hang on the exterior of your home and offer a wide view of your yard and main doors.

  • Indoor home security cameras: Indoor cameras attach to a wall or are placed on a flat surface, and typically record a single room within your home.

  • Doorbell cameras: A doorbell camera replaces your current doorbell and provides a view of your porch.

What Makes A “Good” Security Camera In Tuscaloosa?

Stroll through the security camera row in your local big-box store, and you’ll discover that there’s a lot of discrepancy in camera durability and specs. Here’s a short list of what you should look for in your home security camera:

  • Wide field of vision: You’ll likely want your camera to see as much area as it can. Without a wide-angle lens, you have a higher chance of blind spots and places for people to hide. Try to find cameras with at least a 140° to 180° field of vision.

  • Low-light vision: It doesn’t do you any good if your security cameras cannot record what’s happening when it’s dark. Look for a camera that uses infrared LEDs that give nighttime light.

  • HD resolution: The days of pixelated blobs are behind you. Limit your search to cameras that record and stream in 720 HD or more.

  • Strong construction: Your outdoor security cameras should be able to withstand bad weather like rain, heat, or frigid temperatures (some even have a built-in heater). Your indoor cameras should absorb shock if they’re bumped or lightly fall to the floor.

  • Motion detection: Although you can program your cameras for a continuous record, that takes a lot of recording space and power. Instead, look for a security camera with motion detectors that starts to automatically record when it perceives motion.

  • Two-way talk: The best doorbell cameras have an intercom system so you can talk with delivery people or visitors without opening the door. You can also find similar 2-way audio feature with indoor or outdoor cameras as well.

  • Wireless functionality: A wireless camera can be added almost anywhere on or inside your home, and can be moved if if you’d like to position it elsewhere. Wireless placement is typically more common than wiring your camera directly into your electric wiring.

  • A simple mobile app: What good is a security camera if it’s difficult to see your feeds? You should look for cameras that include a mobile app so you can view live feeds in high-definition, record and save clips, and receive notifications when your cameras detect motion. It’s convenient when your security app also controls your overall home security and home automation system.       

Should You Have Your Home Security Cameras Installed By A Pro?

Once you understand what you’re looking for in a residential security camera, you have to decide who’s going to install your cameras. If you’re handy, you may be able to install your cameras yourself. However, if you’re not sure the best places for your cameras, or have questions about the equipment, go ahead and get professional installation. Specialists, like Secure24 Alarm Systems, know the best spots to hang your cameras for maximum security and walk you through the mobile app. You may also explore professional installation if your security cameras pair to a full residential security system.

Find The Best Home Security Cameras in Tuscaloosa With Secure24 Alarm Systems

The best home security cameras with expert installation in Tuscaloosa come from Secure24 Alarm Systems. Simply call (205) 315-0267 or fill out the form below to get your no-cost quote. We’ll discuss your best options and how your cameras can integrate with your residential security system.