Guide to Choosing the Best Home Security Camera for You

Looking for a home security camera? You're in the right place. Whether you need to keep an eye on your home’s interior, exterior, or both, these gadgets are all about giving you peace of mind. And sometimes, just having a camera is enough to ward off trouble.

There's a whole world of security cameras out there, each with loads of different features. This guide will break down the different types of cameras and answer the questions you might have in mind. Let's find your top pick security camera together.

Types of home security cameras to consider

There are an assortment of security cameras to choose from. In the next few sections, we’ll go over some of the most common types of security cameras, what they do, and how they work.

Wired security cameras

Wired security cameras inside the home can monitor a large area inside of your house when installed on your wall or ceiling. These cameras will normally use a coaxial cable to connect to a recording machine. These security cameras can be difficult to hook up, so it’s best to have a professional install them.

Wired security cameras located outside your house may have a long, cylindrical shape, giving them the nickname bullet cameras. Typically, these cameras are installed high up on the wall outside your home. These cameras also generally require professional installation.

Wired security cameras don’t normally require plug-ins because they’re hardwired into your existing electrical system. Both dome-shaped security cameras and bullet-style security cameras have LED lights that make it possible for them to record in low or no-light settings.

The difference between the two cameras is the area they’re designed to record. Dome-shaped cameras have a wide field of view to pan a larger area from side to side. Bullet-style cameras are more adept at video recording at long distances and can help you keep an eye on your entire property.

Wireless security cameras

Wireless security cameras tend to be easier to DIY because you don’t have to connect them to your home’s wiring system (though you may still have to plug them into a power outlet).

Because wire-free security cameras use your home’s Wi-Fi network, they’re sometimes referred to as Wi-Fi security cameras or Internet Protocol (IP) cameras. Generally, IP cameras use the cloud for video storage.

There are several types of indoor wireless cameras with different functions. For example, baby monitors are a type of Wi-Fi camera. Some baby monitors even have functionality that allows them to do things like record the air quality in your baby’s room.

The main difference between indoor and outdoor wireless cameras is that outdoor ones are designed to be weatherproof and more durable. In addition to being weather resistant, outdoor Wi-Fi cameras are typically bigger than indoor ones.

Outdoor Wi-Fi cameras also have a wide field of view of at least 130 degrees, which allows them to record a large area. Some outdoor IP cameras also have security add-ons like alarms and spotlights that help them deter intruders.

Indoor cameras

There are a few reasons you might want to install indoor security cameras. In addition to using them to protect the inside of your home, you can use them to keep an eye on your children and pets. For instance, some indoor cams will let you remotely speak to or give treats to your animals using your smartphone.

Another benefit of indoor cameras is that they can quickly help you identify false security alarms.

Let’s say you have glass-break sensors as part of your smart home security system. While you’re at work, you get a notification on your smartphone that one of your windows has been shattered.

Before calling the emergency number to report a break-in, you take a look at the security footage in your home and notice the neighbor kid’s baseball is in your living room. You then know that while your window is broken, it was not shattered because an intruder is trying to break into your home, so there is no need to call the police.

A wired indoor camera needs to be tied into your home’s wiring. Typically, you’ll need an expert to install your indoor wired camera unless you have experience working with electrical systems. You can install indoor wireless cameras yourself, but you’ll need a router and a Wi-Fi connection.

Outdoor cameras

The main purpose of outdoor video surveillance is to spot, catch, or scare possible intruders. The best outdoor security cameras are designed to monitor a large area outside of your home. They can help you spot suspicious activity like package thieves.

Outdoor wireless cameras are a central part of an effective security system. Many have security features like infrared night vision. Cameras with night vision use LED technology to make recordings with high video quality even when there’s no light available. Some Wi-Fi outdoor cameras even let you see a live stream of your property.

Like indoor cameras, outdoor cameras are easier to install if they work on a wireless network. If you have wired outdoor cameras, it’s generally a good idea to have them professionally installed.

Floodlight cameras

A floodlight camera is a type of outdoor wireless camera. It uses motion sensors to detect potential suspicious activity outside your home at night. Whenever the camera senses somebody moving near your property, it activates a large light that illuminates your yard.

A floodlight has two main purposes. First, it makes it easier for the camera to record quality images. It also startles criminals, making them think twice about coming near your home. Floodlight cams can come in both wireless and wired models. Wired models will usually require professional installation.

Spotlight cameras

Spotlight cameras are a versatile option for outdoor surveillance, blending advanced technology with practical design. These cameras are equipped with motion sensors that detect movement around your home during the day and night. When something or someone moves near your property, the camera triggers a focused spotlight on a particular section of your home, such as your doorstep.

The spotlight camera has the ability to capture clear, detailed footage by providing targeted lighting. Much like the floodlight camera, it also acts as a deterrent by startling potential intruders.

Video doorbells

Video doorbells are one of the most popular security tools around. A doorbell camera replaces your original doorbell and lets you record live video of visitors to your home. The camera is activated whenever it senses motion on your property or when someone rings your doorbell.

You’ll receive motion alerts on your smartphone that someone is at your door whenever your camera is activated. You can then see footage of your visitor and can talk to them using the camera’s two-way talk function. The camera captures a recording of the visitor and stores it, so you can view it later if you aren’t around to answer the door.

The majority of video doorbells need to be wired into your doorbell’s existing circuit for power, but a few models use regular or rechargeable battery power. Installation for battery-powered video doorbells is much easier to DIY than installation for wired ones. For wired doorbell cameras, you may need to consider professional installation.

Generally, wired video doorbells can take longer clips than wireless models. Most video doorbells store footage using a cloud network. This means you’ll typically need a Wi-Fi connection for your doorbell to work. However, some models can use a cellular network.

How to choose a home security camera

Now that you know about a few types of security cameras available, it’s time to think about which camera will work best with your security system. In the next few sections, we’ll walk you through how to pick the right security camera for your home.

Decide on a camera type

Do you want to monitor the inside or outside of your home? The type of security camera you need will depend on the area you want to monitor.

For example, a video doorbell camera shows you who’s at your door. A floodlight camera keeps tabs on your front yard and shines a light on any suspicious activity.

Determine camera features you need

Need to see what's happening at night? A camera with night vision or a built-in floodlight is a must-have. They make sure you get clear images even in low light.

Want to chat with whoever's at your door? Opt for a smart security camera with two-way audio. It's great for talking to visitors or warding off unwanted guests.

If recognizing who's at your door matters, consider cameras with facial recognition technology. They can identify familiar faces and alert you to strangers.

Person detection is another handy feature. These cameras can tell the difference between a person and a moving object, like a car or animal, reducing false alarms.

The size and layout of your home play a role too. For larger homes, a video doorbell with a 180-degree field of view might be ideal to cover more ground. But for smaller spaces, like a condo, a narrower field of view could work just fine.

Consider smart home integration

Ideally, all the devices in a security system should work together seamlessly. That's why choosing a security camera that integrates well with your other smart home devices is crucial. For instance, a security camera system from Vivint can easily integrate with popular platforms like Amazon Alexa, Google Home (Google Assistant), and Apple HomeKit.

Such integration allows for a more streamlined and efficient smart home experience. With Google Home, you can use voice commands to control your security camera, while Apple HomeKit integration offers the convenience of managing your camera settings through your Apple devices.

Moreover, a Vivint security camera system is part of a broader smart home setup. This means you can control all your smart devices, like lights and thermostats, from a central control panel or directly from your smartphone. The integration with various smart home ecosystems ensures that your security system is not just a standalone feature but a cohesive part of your entire smart home.

Assess storage options

When it comes to storing footage from your security cameras, you've got a few options. Sure, some cameras can save data on micro SD cards, but most security camera providers lean towards cloud storage plans. With cloud storage, your camera's data is stored on a remote platform, ensuring all your footage is backed up.

But what if cloud storage isn't your thing? That's where DVR (digital video recorder) and NVR (network video recorder) systems come into play. These devices store footage locally on hard drives, giving you physical control over your data. DVRs are used with analog cameras, while NVRs pair with IP (internet protocol) cameras.

Different providers have varying cloud storage offers. Some give a bit of free cloud storage, while others might charge for everything. And if you want to share clips with law enforcement, you might need a subscription.

The cloud storage game varies a lot. Some providers don't offer any freebies, while others might hook you up with a full day's worth of storage without costing a penny. Before you commit, take a good look at what your provider offers in terms of cloud, DVR, and NVR storage options.

Consider installation options

As we touched on earlier, DIY installation is an option for many home security cameras. In fact, some cameras are specifically designed with DIY installation in mind, including battery-powered and solar-powered models.

Battery-powered cameras offer the flexibility of being placed almost anywhere without worrying about wiring. Solar-powered cameras, often equipped with solar panels, provide an eco-friendly solution, harnessing sunlight to keep the batteries charged.

However, if you're not comfortable with DIY projects, it's wise to consider professional installation. Improper installation can lead to damaged equipment, and in some cases, it might even void your warranty. This is particularly true for wired security cameras, where handling electrical connections can be risky if you're not experienced.

A professional installer makes sure the installation is done correctly. They also bring valuable insights, such as the optimal locations for mounting your cameras to maximize coverage.

Beyond just setting up your camera, if you're working with a system like Vivint, an installation expert can also help integrate your security cameras with the rest of your smart home system, ensuring seamless operation across all your devices.

Explore monitoring options

When setting up your home security system, one of the key decisions you'll make is how to monitor it. There are two main paths to consider: self-monitoring and professional monitoring.

Self-monitoring is a hands-on approach and, best of all, it's free. With self-monitoring, you're in charge of keeping an eye on your home. Typically, you'll use a smartphone app connected to your security cameras. You'll receive alerts, watch live feeds, and check recorded footage whenever you want.

Self-monitoring is a great option if you prefer to be directly involved and want to avoid monthly fees.

For those who want peace of mind without the responsibility of constant vigilance, professional monitoring is the way to go. This service comes with a monthly fee, but it offers 24/7 surveillance by a dedicated team.

In case of any suspicious activity or emergencies, these professionals can alert you and, if necessary, contact emergency services on your behalf. Professional monitoring is a comprehensive solution that ensures your home is watched over even when you can't be there.

Both options have their benefits, so consider your lifestyle, security needs, and budget when choosing your monitoring path.

Home security camera FAQs

There are a lot of factors to take into account when you’re on the market for a security camera. Here are some of the most common questions people ask about security cameras.

Can you install a home security camera yourself?

You can install security cameras yourself, but it’s not always the best idea. When it comes to installation, different security cameras have varying degrees of difficulty. Sometimes, it’s best to trust a professional with your installation if you’re not a skilled electrician.

Companies like Vivint have knowledgeable specialists that will perform your installation and help you connect your security camera to the rest of your smart devices.

Which is the easiest security camera to install?

Wireless, battery-powered cameras are typically much easier to install than wired ones because they don’t need to be wired into your home. Some video doorbell cameras even have adhesive on them, making installing them as simple as sticking them to your front door.

With a battery-powered system, you’ll need to pay close attention to your battery life, and wired cameras have their own benefits. For example, wired video doorbells can record longer clips than wireless ones. Companies like Vivint offer professional installation of high-quality security cameras.

Do security cameras need light at night?

While some security cameras have floodlights that light up whenever motion detection sensors pick up movement, not all cameras need light to function.

Cameras with night vision can record clear black-and-white video in the dark. Some security cameras even have color night vision and HDR.

Do home security cameras have to be connected to Wi-Fi?

You may not need a Wi-Fi connection if your home security camera is wired to a local storage device inside your home. However, most smart security cameras store footage on a remote cloud server, which requires a wireless internet connection.

Discover the best home security camera options from Vivint

Home surveillance cameras can be powerful tools to give you peace of mind. Vivint’s security cameras not only record crime but help prevent it using Smart Deter technology. For example, our Outdoor Camera Pro and Doorbell Camera Pro can detect real threats and scare away potential thieves and lurkers by using light and sound.

And if you need a camera that’s always on duty inside your home, the Vivint Indoor Camera allows you to communicate with kids and pets right from the app, no matter where you are. It also captures footage when it senses motion, so you never miss a moment.

Meet with one of our qualified team members to learn more about Vivint security cameras, professional monitoring, and other smart security concepts that can help protect your property, privacy, and loved ones. Call us at 855.822.1220 for a free consultation today.