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August 27, 2020

What To Ask About When Getting A New Home Security Camera In Decatur

Most home security systems have at least one home security camera in Decatur. But with many different brands and features for cameras, it's difficult to know what’s actually important in a camera. Do you buy one from a retail store and install it yourself? Or is it better to get your cameras professionally installed? Should you look for a camera that streams in full HD? How do you decide between an outside camera affixed to the overhang or a doorbell camera?

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

Three types of security cameras in Decatur

Types Of Home Security Cameras in Decatur

Here are the three most common kinds of home security cameras in Decatur. Each one has a unique purpose and should easily fit within your home security system:

  • Outdoor home security camera: These kinds of cameras attach to the outside of your home to provide a view of your yard and common doors.

  • Indoor home security cameras: Indoor cameras are fixed to a wall or rest on a level surface, and primarily show one room within your home.

  • Doorbell cameras: A doorbell camera replaces your old doorbell and shows you if visitors or packages have arrived.

What Makes A “Great” Security Camera In Decatur?

Take a quick look down the security camera aisle in a retail store, and you’ll learn that there’s many differences in camera durability and features. Here’s a rundown of what you should look for in your home security camera:

  • Wide field of vision: In most cases, you will want your camera to view as much terrain 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 capabilities: Your camera should be able to see what’s going on at night. Look for a camera that includes infrared LEDs that give nighttime illumination.

  • HD resolution: The days of digitized shapes should be history. Only look at cameras that record and livestream in 720 HD or more.

  • Durable construction: Your outdoor security cameras need to be able to withstand poor weather conditions like rain, heat, or freezing temperatures (some even come with a built-in heater). Your interior cameras should still work if they’re bumped or lightly fall to the floor.

  • Motion detection: Even though you can program your cameras for a non-stop 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 perceives movement.

  • Two-way talk: Doorbell cameras should come with an intercom system so you can speak with visitors without coming to the door. However, similar 2-way audio feature is nice functionality with indoor or outdoor cameras as well.

  • Wireless capabilities: A wireless camera can be added anywhere outside or in your house, and can be moved if needed. Wireless placement is typically more common than wiring your camera to your home’s wiring.

  • An easy to use mobile app: What good is a security camera if it’s hard to use? Get cameras that include a mobile app so you can watch live streaming in HD, record and store clips, and get notifications when your cameras detect movement. It helps when your security app also manages your complete home security and home automation system.       

Is It Best To Have Your Home Security Cameras Installed By A Pro?

Once you know what’s important for you in a home security camera, you have to choose if you should get your cameras [[professionally installed|installed by a pro|installed by a professional. If you’re comfortable with tools, you may try to DIY your install. But if you are unsure where to put your cameras, or have questions about the tech, explore professional installation. Specialists, like Secure24 Alarm Systems, know the best spots to place your cameras for complete security and show you how to use the mobile app. You may also want professional installation if your security cameras pair to a full residential security system.

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

The best home security cameras with professional installation in Decatur come from Secure24 Alarm Systems. Just contact us at (256) 246-8823 or complete the form to get your free quote. We’ll talk through your options and how your cameras can integrate with your residential security system.