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Outdoor camera in West Lafayette
August 27, 2020

What To Ask About When Getting A Home Security Camera In West Lafayette

Many home security systems have at least one home security camera in West Lafayette. But with all the different models and options for cameras, it's tricky to know what camera features are really important. Do you buy one from a hardware store and install it yourself? Or is it better to get your cameras installed by a pro? Should you try to find one that live streams in full HD? How do you decide between an outside camera right under the overhang or a doorbell camera?

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

Three types of security cameras in West Lafayette

3 Types Of Home Security Cameras in West Lafayette

There are mostly three different kinds of home security cameras in West Lafayette. Each type has a specific type of use and can easily fit within your home security system:

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

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

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

How Do You Know It’s A “Great” Security Camera In West Lafayette?

Stroll through the security camera aisle in a popular hardware store, and you’ll learn that there’s a lot of discrepancy in camera quality and specs. Here’s a rundown of features to look for in your home security camera:

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

  • Low-light vision: A camera’s not much good if it can’t see what’s going on when it’s dark. You will want a camera that uses infrared LEDs that offer nighttime illumination.

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

  • Exceptional construction: Your exterior security cameras need to be able to stand against bad weather like storms, heat waves, or freezing temperatures (some even come with 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 set your cameras for a continuous record, that requires a lot of power and recording space. We recommend looking for a security camera with motion detectors that begins to automatically record when it senses movement.

  • Two-way talk: The top doorbell cameras have an intercom system, which makes it easy to communicate with guests or delivery people without coming to the door. However, similar 2-way audio functionality is handy feature with indoor or outdoor cameras as well.

  • Wireless install: A wireless camera can be added almost anywhere outside or in your house, and is easy to move if needed. This approach is usually more popular than wiring your camera straight into your electric wiring.

  • An easy to use mobile app: How good is a security camera if it’s hard to view its feeds? You should look for cameras that come with a mobile app that allows you to see live streaming in HD, record and store clips, and receive alerts when your cameras detect movement. It’s convenient when your camera app also controls your complete security and home automation system.       

Should You Have Your Home Security Cameras Professionally Installed?

Once you understand what you’re looking for in a home security camera, you have to choose how you’re going to install your cameras. If you’re comfortable with tools, you may try to install your cameras yourself. But if you’re not sure where to put your cameras, or can’t figure out the components, go ahead and get professional installation. Security specialists, such as Secure24 Alarm Systems, can hang your cameras for ultimate security and connect your cameras to 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 West Lafayette With Secure24 Alarm Systems

The best home security cameras with expert installation in West Lafayette come from Secure24 Alarm Systems. Just contact us at (765) 221-3339 or send in the form to receive your free quote. We’ll talk through your options and how your cameras are an important piece of your home security system.