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August 27, 2020

What To Look For When Purchasing A Home Security Camera In Columbia

Many home security systems use at least one home security camera in Columbia. But with many different brands and options for cameras, it's hard to know what you really need. Do you purchase one from a retail store and set it up yourself? Or is it preferable to get your cameras installed by a specialist? Should you try to find one that records in full HD? And what's better, an outside camera right under the overhang or a doorbell camera?

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

Three types of security cameras in Columbia

Types Of Home Security Cameras in Columbia

Here are the three most common kinds of home security cameras in Columbia. Each has a unique type of use and should easily integrate with your home security system:

  • Outdoor home security camera: These types of cameras attach to the exterior of your house to give you a view of your yard and common entrances.

  • Indoor home security cameras: Indoor cameras hang from a wall or rest on a flat surface, and primarily show a single room within your home.

  • Doorbell cameras: A doorbell camera replaces your current doorbell and lets you see who’s on your front porch.

What Makes A “Great” Security Camera In Columbia?

Visit the security camera row in a popular hardware store, and you’ll learn that there’s many differences in camera durability and specs. Here’s a rundown of what you should look for in your home security camera:

  • Wide field of vision: You'll probably want your camera to view as much area as it can. Without a wide-angle lens, you have a higher chance of blind spots and areas for intruders to hide. Try to get cameras with at least a 140° to 180° wide view.

  • Low-light vision: It doesn’t do you much good if your security cameras can’t display what’s happening during the night. You will want a camera that uses infrared LEDs that provide nighttime illumination.

  • HD resolution: The days of digitized shapes should be in the past. Limit your search to cameras that record and broadcast in 720 HD or more.

  • Sturdy construction: Your exterior security cameras should be able to function when there’s bad weather like storms, heat, or frigid temperatures (some even include a built-in heater). Your indoor cameras should survive if they’re bumped or lightly fall to the floor.

  • Motion detection: Even though you can set your cameras for a continuous record, that requires a lot of recording space and power. Instead, try to find a security camera with motion sensors that begins to automatically record when it senses motion.

  • Two-way talk: The top doorbell cameras come with an intercom system, which makes it easy to communicate with visitors without opening the door. However, the same 2-way audio capability can be found feature with interior or exterior cameras, too.

  • Wireless functionality: A wireless camera can be added wherever you’d like outside or inside your house, and is easy to move if needed. Wireless install is often preferable to wiring your camera to your home’s wiring.

  • A simple mobile app: How good is a security camera if it’s a complicated mess to manage? Get cameras with a mobile app that lets you watch live feeds in HD, record and save clips, and receive alerts when your cameras sense movement. It’s convenient when your camera app also manages your complete security and home automation system.       

Is It Best To Have Your Home Security Cameras Professionally Installed?

Once you have learned what you want in a residential security camera, you need to choose who’s going to install your cameras. If you’re good with tools, you may be able to DIY your install. But if you’re not sure where to place your cameras, or have questions about the components, explore professional installation. Experts, like Secure24 Alarm Systems, can place your cameras for complete security and connect your cameras to the mobile app. You may also look into professional installation if your security cameras integrate with a full home security system.

Buy The Best Home Security Cameras in Columbia With Secure24 Alarm Systems

The best home security cameras with expert installation in Columbia come from Secure24 Alarm Systems. Just call (573) 203-3048 or fill out the form below to get your free quote. We’ll talk through your options and how your cameras can integrate with your home security system.