Security camera buying guide: 11 features that you shouldn’t miss – Times of India

Both smart security cameras and video doorbells have become a most common modern-day safety and security tool. These devices help users add an additional layer of security to their homes when they are away or to monitor the surroundings all the time for any suspicious activities. There are a wide range of smart security cameras available in the market with different set of features and use case scenarios. For instance, some security cameras allow users to use local storage space, some offer cloud storage. While some feature good Night vision capabilities, some offer good motion detection. But, choosing the right security camera shouldn’t be this complicated. The same applies to the video doorbells as well.
So, to bring down the confusion of choosing the best possible smart security camera, we have put together a list of features that’s a must if you are looking for a smart security camera or a video doorbell for home.
Motion Detection
Things are getting faster. From smartphones to laptops, everything is about fast processing, so why should anyone compromise with speed when it comes to security cameras. Although the security camera speed is heavily dependent upon the strength and speed of Wi-Fi, it is important that the camera features an active, fast and reliable motion detection feature and the ability to inform users on their smartphone as soon as it detect any motion around it. The same applies to the video doorbells which are basically designed for the exact same thing.
Reliable smartphone app
While the modern smart security cameras rely on online platforms and connecity, the app is an important factor. So, make sure that the security camera that you are buying has a dedicated and secure app. Also, it offers all the basic features that’s required for the camera to work properly.
Compatibility
Another major thing one should seriously consider is the compatibility of the cameras. It is important to understand that the cameras are going to become an integral part of your day-to-day smart device system and it is important that both the smartphone or the smart speakers/displays are completely compatible with the cameras you are planning to buy and support all the features like instant notifications, pulling up the live feed anytime you want, recording a particular video clip, etc.
Resolutions
Higher resolution is good, but don’t rush for it. Many smart cameras and video doorbells offer up to 4K video recording support. However, you should always understand that higher resolutions come with its one shortcomings too. For instance, the file size will be much bigger compared to the 1080p resolution. So, more storage will be required.
Also, some cameras, despite being a 4K camera, will only record at that resolution, only if the Wi-Fi signal strength is that strong. So, it is better to go with 1080p camera that offers good quality output
Storage type
Smart cameras usually come with two types of storage options – online and offline. The offline storage security cameras come with in-built storage space like smartphones and also offer a USB port to expand it via external hard drive etc.
The online storage, on the other hand, comes with a subscription-based model where users need to pay monthly or yearly for a particular plan based on number of cameras, recording limitations and rolling and advanced detection features.
Coloured Night vision
You are looking for a security camera or a video doorbell and it’s almost useless if it does not have Night vision. Affordable cameras offer standard Night vision, some a little expensive ones also offer coloured Night vision support. We recommend you to go with coloured Night vision option, if your budget allows.
Two-way audio
We agree that it’s weird to imaging sound coming out of the wall mounted security camera, but it is an important feature to consider. The feature allows users to have two way communication from anywhere across the world just like the WhatsApp call, as long as the camera as well as your smartphone is connected to the internet.
In-built alarm system
If you are buying a security camera, do look for the option that offers an in-built alarm feature. This increases the chances of stopping a crook or an intruder from breaking into your house even at night when you are asleep.
Field of view
Another important factor to consider is the Field of View (FOV) while buying a new security camera. It is important to understand that most cameras mention the ‘360’ term in the specification. While it is an important feature, but don’t confuse that with the FOV. The FOV simply means the area which the camera can see and monitor. So, always look for something with at least 110-degree FOV.
Pan, Tilt and zoom
Pan, Tilt and zoom is also a very important feature, especially if you want your camera to be more proactive and cover more ground outside your house. Or at least have features like motion tracking, etc. The feature also allows users to control the camera and monitor the surroundings using the app. It’s an important feature, but isn’t mandatory to have.
Advanced detection
If you don’t want to end up waking at mid-night just because some dog randomly crossed from around your house, then do look for the camera that offers advanced detection features that includes animal detection, face detection, noise detection and more. Some cameras even offer smoke and gas detection features.