What To Look For When Getting A New Home Security Camera In Champaign

It's easy to see why most home security systems have at least one home security camera in Champaign. However, with so many different models and options for cameras, it's difficult to know what camera features are really important. Do you purchase one from a retail store and do a DIY install? Or is it better to get your cameras installed by a pro? Should you ask for a camera that records in HD? How do you choose between an exterior camera attached to the overhang or a doorbell camera?

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

Types Of Home Security Cameras in Champaign

Here are the three most common kinds of home security cameras in Champaign. Each has a unique purpose and can easily be included with your residential security system:

• Outdoor home security camera: These cameras attach to the outside of your home and offer a view of your property, driveway, and common entryways.

• Indoor home security cameras: Indoor cameras attach to a wall or sit on a flat surface, and usually record one room in your house.

• 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 Champaign?

Stroll through the security camera aisle in your local big-box store, and you’ll discover that there’s many differences in camera quality and specs. Here’s a rundown of things to look for in your home security camera:

• Wide field of vision: You'll probably want your camera to scan as much space as possible. Without a wide-angle lens, you’ll likely have blind spots and areas for people to hide. Try to get cameras with at least a 140° to 180° wide view.

• Low-light capabilities: It doesn’t do you much good if your security cameras can’t show you what’s going on when it’s dark. Try to find a camera that uses infrared LEDs that provide nighttime light.

• HD resolution: The days of digitized blobs are history. Limit your search to cameras that record and broadcast in 720 high-definition or more.

• Sturdy construction: Your exterior security cameras need to be able to stand against poor weather like rain, heat, or cold 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: Although you can program your cameras for a continuous record, that requires a lot of recording space and power. Instead, look for a security camera with motion sensors that starts to automatically record when it perceives movement.

• Two-way talk: The top doorbell cameras include an intercom system, which makes it easy to talk with visitors without coming to the door. You can also find the same 2-way audio functionality with indoor or outdoor cameras, too.

• Wireless functionality: A wireless camera can go wherever you’d like outside or in your house, and is easy to move if if you’d like to position it elsewhere. This approach is typically more popular than wiring your camera directly into your home’s wiring.

• A simple mobile app: How helpful is a security camera if it’s a complicated mess to use? Explore cameras that come with a mobile app that lets you view live streaming in high-definition, record and store clips, and receive alerts when your cameras sense motion. It’s convenient when your camera app also controls your comprehensive security and home automation system.       

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

Once you understand what you’re looking for 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 install your cameras yourself. However, if you are unsure where to put your cameras, or have questions about the tech, explore professional installation. Experts, such as Secure24 Alarm Systems, can place your cameras for ultimate security and walk you through the mobile app. You may also think about professional installation if your security cameras integrate with a comprehensive home security system.

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

The best home security cameras with expert installation in Champaign come from Secure24 Alarm Systems. Just call (217) 765-0086 or send in the form below to receive your complimentary quote. We’ll walk you through your best options and how your cameras can integrate with your home security system.