So, youre thinking of maybe getting a security camera.
The thing is, getting started can be overwhelming.
What kinds of security cameras are there?
At a basic level, there are two kinds of security cameras: indoor cams and outdoor cams.
Dont think of indoor security cameras as only being useful when youre away to keep an eye on things.
On the flip side, outdoor cameras do more than just keep an eye out for intruders.
Finally, there arebattery powered cameras, and while they work, theyre never my first choice.
You want to consider how these cameras connect to one another, and your existing data pipe.
We’ll cover the pros and cons of each of these options below.
Is it better to have wired or wireless security cameras?
Wired cameras are better.
Wired cameras tend to have two types of “wiring.”
Since wired cameras are directly connected to power at all times, you get consistent power.
The biggest advantage of wired cameras is that, lacking wifi, theyre harder to hack or jam.
If you’re concerned about security, you’ve got the option to’t beat wired.
The problem is that, most of the time, you cant exclusively use wired cameras.
In those cases, youll be using solar or batteries for power and wifi or 4G for connection.
In the case of a 4G camera, theyll even still have connectivity.
How do you choose a security camera?
In the best possible case, youll select your indoor and outdoor cameras from the same brand.
(We’ll get to that in a bit.)
Your first consideration should be the spaces you want or need to cover.
The bigger the room, the less likely a camera in the corner will capture the whole space.
Add in additional cameras for the sides of your home, the areas that people access via gates.
You might also need additional cameras if you have a remote structure like a shed or gate.
The only time this is problematic is with battery operated cameras, since youll need routine access to them.
after you grab an inventory of what locations you need cameras for, its time to go shopping.
If you want battery powered cameras or are looking for less expensive cameras, brands like AmazonsBlinkare ideal.
If youre really tied into Googles ecosystem, they offer a selection ofmid-range cameras, as doesArlo.
Ive been personally impressed withEufycameras for the last few years, reinstalling them whenever Im not testing other cameras.
Lastly, youll want to include subscription costs and the ability to back up video locally in your decision.
But other brands, like Ring, do not offer this and more or less require a subscription.
What home security systems can’t be hacked?
Here’s the thing: Your system can be hacked.
That said, you certainly dont need to make it easier for low-level thieves and miscreants.
It starts with best practices, which is about your behavior, not the hardware itself.
First and foremost, you need alegitimately strong and unique passwordto protect your internet with.
(Whats your mothers maiden name?
Mine is 1Skm6nas!~8DgOx3.)
Change your security codes with regularity.
To change the channel of your wifi, youll need access to your router.
If theres a junction box, lock it.
Storing video locally instead of on the cloud lessens the chances it will be stolen.
Cameras like Reolink, Eufy and Unifi offer this option through branded hard drives.
What security systems don’t require a monthly fee?
Youll get a notification that someone is at the door, and youll go to pull it up.
By that time, the person is already gone, so youre watching a video.
Without the ability to pull clips, youll find your cameras far less effective.
Still, there are ways to save money on subscriptions, and to circumvent them altogether.
What is the best DIY home security camera system?
That said, I can make some generalities.
That means I’d be going with Reolink or Unifi cameras.
I’d use a home hub or hard drive, which both brands offer.
For midrange priced options, I’d choose Eufy cameras, and I’d stay with their PTZ line.
I also find their outdoor solar cameras excellent.
If you’re just looking to jump into home security, get a Ring doorbell camera.
No matter how much I enjoy other brands, I come back to my Ring doorbell over and over.
Sure, the subscription costs are annoying, but I’ve yet to find a better video doorbell.
I don’t love changing the batteries on their models, so get solar backup for each camera.
verify you get a Sync module.
These options are low cost, and overall, I found the video and sound quality really decent.
