Video quality and view
We always pay attention to resolution and field of view for home security cameras. Checking detail, up close and at a distance, is very important for live views and the quality of recorded video. It’s important to pay attention not only to resolution numbers and how wide the field of view is, but also whether a brand locks higher resolutions behind a subscription (some do).
Video storage
Video storage refers to how easily video can be recorded and shared, typically either in the cloud or locally through an attached hub/hard drive. Cloud storage is almost always locked behind a subscription, except in rare cases like Google Nest and some others. Local storage is generally a better way to avoid subscriptions and still get this important quality-of-life feature.
Smart home integration
Smart home support for voice assistants (Siri, Alexa, Google Assistant) or platforms like Google Home or Apple Home isn’t often locked behind subscriptions: What you see in the specs is what you get. That can be limited to a single platform (Amazon likes to keep its devices focused on Alexa for now) or spread out between several platforms. If you already use a voice assistant or a full smart home security system, look for a camera that’s compatible with it.
Object detection accuracy
Object detection, like recognizing packages or human-shaped beings approaching, is another feature often locked behind a subscription. Some cameras offer free object detection. Eufy uses human detection for many of its cams, TP-Link Tapo cams offer some free detection and several Lorex cams provide package and people detection.
App usability
High-quality secure cams come with apps that are intuitive with settings that are easy to manage. It’s also a big bonus if they don’t have constant pop-ups telling you to sign up for a subscription.
Night vision
We always take a close look at night vision and its distance to make sure that it’s working properly and offers plenty of utility for capturing images on the other side of your yard or room.
Two-way audio
Two-way audio features help scare away intruders, talk to strangers or tell the kids to get inside for dinner. They’re always free, but we take a close look at their quality and range, too.
Installation requirements
Security cameras typically have wall and/or shelf mounts, depending on how you’d like to place them. Sometimes you have to order a wall or shelf mount separately, so have a good idea of how you want to place the camera first. Many wall mounts require you to drill the mount in, but some do come with adhesive mounts, which need to be placed on a smooth, clean surface, or they will fail. A drill and screwdriver are usually all you need for a screw-in mount.
Weather resistance
If your camera is going to be outdoors at all, you should look for a cam that has IP ratings, preferably IP65 or higher. That indicates dust and water resistance that is sufficient for outdoor use in most cases. If it gets very hot or very cold where you live, check the operating temperature range too, before you buy.
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