Surveillance Camera Reviews: Outdoor Security Options

Surveillance cameras are a great way to keep your home and property safe. They can help you keep an eye on things when you're not around, deter intruders, and provide valuable evidence if anything happens. But with so many different cameras on the market, it can be hard to know which one is right for you. That's where reviews come in. By reading reviews, you can learn about the different features and capabilities of each camera, as well as the pros and cons of each model. You can also get a sense of how well the cameras perform in real-world conditions and how they stack up against the competition. Whether you're looking for a camera with high-resolution video, long battery life, or advanced motion detection, reviews can help you make an informed decision about which surveillance camera is right for your needs.

Wired vs wireless

When it comes to choosing between wired and wireless outdoor surveillance cameras, there are several factors to consider. Here are some detailed paragraphs outlining the pros and cons of each system to help you decide which one is right for your needs:

Wired Surveillance Cameras

Wired security cameras are the traditional option that has been used for decades. They are connected to a power source and the internet via cables, which provides a stable and reliable connection. The constant power supply ensures that the cameras keep running as long as the electrical grid and building infrastructure remain intact. However, the downside is that installation can be tricky and time-consuming, as wires need to be run and logistical considerations may limit where you can place the cameras. Wired cameras are also less flexible, as they are typically tethered to a specific location and are not easily moved. Additionally, wired cameras may have older user interfaces and fewer modern features compared to wireless cameras.

Wireless Surveillance Cameras

Wireless security cameras offer more freedom and flexibility than wired cameras. They don't require a wired connection and can be easily installed and deployed in various locations, both indoors and outdoors. Wireless cameras are powered by batteries or solar power, making them fully wireless and ideal for temporary deployments or provisional use cases. They are also easily portable and can be moved to different locations without the hassle of wiring. However, wireless cameras may have connectivity issues and are more susceptible to power failures, as they rely on batteries or solar charging, which can be affected by environmental factors. Additionally, wireless cameras are generally more expensive than wired cameras.

Comparing the Two

When deciding between wired and wireless surveillance cameras, it's important to consider your specific needs and requirements. Wired cameras are generally more reliable and secure, with a consistent connection and no worries about battery life. On the other hand, wireless cameras offer flexibility and ease of installation, making them ideal for renters or those who want to change the camera placement frequently. Wired cameras tend to have better video and audio quality since they are not limited by wireless signal strength. However, wireless cameras can be integrated into smart home systems and are often compatible with smart assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. Ultimately, the decision depends on your surveillance goals, budget, and whether you prioritise flexibility or a stable connection.

Power sources

When choosing an outdoor surveillance camera, it's important to consider the power source that will best suit your needs. Here are some options:

Battery-Powered Outdoor Security Cameras

Battery-powered or wireless cameras offer the advantage of being easy to install and less expensive than wired solutions. They are typically powered by a transmitter located near the camera, which sends a signal to power the camera wirelessly. Newer wireless cameras can also be plugged into any power source, offering more flexibility in placement. However, the convenience of battery-powered cameras comes with additional maintenance, such as regular battery replacement or recharging.

Electric Outlet/Wired Cameras

Electric outlet or wired cameras receive power directly from sources such as a wall socket or Power over Ethernet (PoE). PoE is particularly useful when access to traditional electrical outlets is limited or inconvenient, such as in warehouses or factories. It allows for power transmission over long distances through existing CAT 5/6 cables.

Solar-Powered Security Cameras

Solar-powered security cameras are ideal for remote locations where other power sources may not be available or practical. They utilise solar panels to capture solar energy, which is then stored in batteries for use at night when sensors are most active. A well-installed solar panel setup can ensure maximum efficiency, just like any other solar-powered device.

Power over Ethernet (PoE) Cameras

PoE cameras provide the convenience of powering the camera and transmitting data through a single Ethernet cable connected to a router. This eliminates the need for separate power cables and can save you from the trouble of finding power outlets for multiple cameras. PoE switches can accommodate multiple cameras with simple cable connections.

Video storage

Local Storage

Local storage refers to keeping video recordings on the camera itself or within a central Network Video Recorder (NVR) or Digital Video Recorder (DVR) device. This method offers some advantages in terms of privacy and offline functionality but has drawbacks in terms of sharing footage and remote access. It also requires large storage capacity and presents a risk of data loss if the device is damaged or fails.

Cloud Storage

Cloud storage, on the other hand, transmits video footage in real time or near-real time through the network to a remote server. This option provides benefits such as cost, security, scalability, and disaster recovery. However, massive video files can make it challenging to instantly and reliably transmit recordings, especially in locations with limited bandwidth or sporadic connectivity.

Hybrid Cloud Solutions

To maximise the benefits and minimise the drawbacks of both local and cloud storage, many providers now offer hybrid cloud solutions that combine the two methods. With hybrid cloud storage, users can take advantage of the convenience and security of cloud storage while also having the option of local storage for quick access to footage.

When choosing a video storage option for surveillance cameras, it's essential to consider factors such as cost, privacy, data security, ease of access, and the amount of storage space required. Additionally, the resolution and frame rate of the cameras will impact the storage capacity needed, with higher-resolution recordings requiring more storage space.

Resolution

The best outdoor security cameras on the market offer 2K or 4K resolution. The Lorex Fusion 2K IP Cam, for example, is a high-end option with a powerful 2K resolution. The Arlo Ultra 2 is another top-quality camera that offers superior 4K image quality.

If you're looking for a more affordable option, the Blink Outdoor 4 is a good choice. It offers 1080p resolution and can store video locally or on the cloud. The TP-Link Tapo C120 is another budget-friendly option that offers 2K resolution and local video storage.

If you want a completely wire-free installation and excellent 1080p video quality, the Arlo Go 2 is a great choice. It uses either a cellular or Wi-Fi connection and includes a built-in spotlight.

For a versatile option that can be used indoors or outdoors, the Google Nest Cam is a good choice. It offers 1080p resolution and works with Google Assistant voice commands.

Motion detection

There are different types of motion detection available. Standard motion detection picks up any type of movement, whether that be a person, animal, vehicle, or object. PIR (passive infrared motion detection) is triggered by heat signatures, so it will detect people, animals, and vehicles. Advanced motion detection uses AI to only alert you when it detects a person or vehicle, cutting down on unnecessary alerts. Smart Motion Detection differentiates between people and vehicles, and you can set up separate alerts for each. Smart Motion Detection Plus includes facial recognition, so the camera can be set to only record if it detects a face.

When it comes to motion-detection cameras, it is recommended to look for cameras with automatic zoom, as they can automatically focus on the areas with motion. Geofencing is another useful feature, as it means your cameras will automatically turn on when you leave the house.

Some cameras have motion-activated spotlights, which act as a general crime deterrent. Two-way audio is another useful feature, as it allows you to talk to and potentially scare off intruders.

When choosing a motion-detection camera, it is also important to consider the resolution, night vision, storage, smart-home integration, and viewing angle.

Frequently asked questions