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Outdoor camera in Virginia Beach
August 27, 2020

What To Look For When Buying A New Home Security Camera In Virginia Beach

It's easy to see why most home security systems use at least one home security camera in Virginia Beach. But with many different models and features for cameras, it's hard to know what you really need. Do you buy one from a retail shop and do a DIY install? Or is it preferable to get your cameras professionally installed? Should you ask for a camera that streams in HD? And what's better, an outdoor camera attached to the overhang or a doorbell camera?

To explore these questions and other common questions, here is what you should look for in a Virginia Beach home security camera.

Three types of security cameras in Virginia Beach

Types Of Home Security Cameras in Virginia Beach

There are mostly three different kinds of home security cameras in Virginia Beach. Each one has a specific type of use and should easily fit within your home security system:

  • Outdoor home security camera: These kinds of cameras hang on the outside of your house and offer a view of your yard and common entrances.

  • Indoor home security cameras: Indoor cameras attach to a wall or rest on a level surface, and typically view one room within your house.

  • Doorbell cameras: A doorbell camera replaces your old doorbell and lets you see who’s on your front porch.

How Do You Know It’s A “Great” Security Camera In Virginia Beach?

Visit the security camera aisle in a popular retail store, and you’ll learn that there’s many differences in camera durability and specs. Here’s a list 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 it can. Without a wide-angle lens, there will be more blind spots and spaces for people to hide. Try to find cameras with at least a 140° to 180° wide angle.

  • Low-light capabilities: Your camera should be able to see what’s happening at night. Get a camera that has built-in infrared LEDs that give nighttime illumination.

  • HD resolution: The days of grainy blobs should be behind you. Only consider cameras that record and broadcast in 720 HD or higher.

  • Durable construction: Your outside security cameras need to be able to withstand poor weather conditions like rain, heat, or cold temperatures (some even include a built-in heater). Your interior cameras should absorb shock if they’re bumped or lightly fall to the floor.

  • Motion sensors: Although you can set your cameras for a continual record, that requires a lot of power. Instead, look for a security camera with motion detectors that starts automatically recording when it recognizes movement.

  • Two-way talk: The top doorbell cameras have an intercom system so you can speak with guests or delivery people without answering the door. You can also find similar 2-way audio feature with indoor or outdoor cameras as well.

  • Wireless install: A wireless camera can be placed almost anywhere on or in your home, and can be moved if you’d like it somewhere else. Wireless install is typically preferable to wiring your camera directly into your electric wiring.

  • An easy to use mobile app: What good is a security camera if it’s a pain to see your feeds? You should look for cameras with a mobile app that lets you see live streaming in high-definition, record and save clips, and get alerts when your cameras perceive motion. It helps when your security app also syncs with your comprehensive home security and home automation system.       

Should You Have Your Home Security Cameras Professionally Installed?

Once you figure out what’s important for you in a residential security camera, it’s time to choose if you should get your cameras [[professionally installed|installed by a pro|installed by a professional. If you’re good with tools, you may be able to DIY a solution. However, if you’re unsure where to put your cameras, or have questions about the equipment, go ahead and get professional installation. Specialists, such as Secure24 Alarm Systems, know the best spots to hang your cameras for complete security and connect your cameras to the mobile app. You may also want professional installation if your security cameras integrate with a comprehensive home security system.

Get The Best Home Security Cameras in Virginia Beach With Secure24 Alarm Systems

The best home security cameras with expert installation in Virginia Beach come from Secure24 Alarm Systems. Just call (757) 241-4673 or complete the form to receive your free quote. We’ll go over your options and how your cameras can integrate with your residential security system.