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August 27, 2020

What To Ask For When Purchasing A New Home Security Camera In Kalamazoo

It's easy to see why most home security systems have at least one home security camera in Kalamazoo. But with so many different models and features for cameras, it's difficult to know what camera features are really important. Do you buy one from a hardware shop and do a DIY install? Or is it preferable to have your cameras installed by a pro? Should you try to find a camera that records in HD? How do you choose between an outside camera right under the overhang or a doorbell camera?

To answer these questions and other common concerns, here is what you should look for in a Kalamazoo home security camera.

Three types of security cameras in Kalamazoo

Types Of Home Security Cameras in Kalamazoo

Here are the three most common types of home security cameras in Kalamazoo. Each one has a special type of use and can easily be included with your residential security system:

  • Outdoor home security camera: These cameras are installed on the outside of your house to provide a view of your yard and common entrances.

  • Indoor home security cameras: Indoor cameras are fixed to a wall or rest on a flat surface, and primarily show a single room in your house.

  • Doorbell cameras: A doorbell camera replaces your old doorbell and provides a view of your porch.

What Makes A “Great” Security Camera In Kalamazoo?

Stroll through the security camera row in your local retail store, and you’ll quickly see that there’s many differences in camera durability and specs. Here’s a short list of what you should look for in your home security camera:

  • Wide field of vision: You’ll likely want your camera to view as much area as possible. If you don’t have a wide-angle lens, you’ll likely have blind spots and spots for people to hide. Try to get cameras with at least a 140° to 180° field of vision.

  • Low-light vision: A camera’s not much good if it can’t display what’s going on in the dark. Try to find a camera that has built-in infrared LEDs that offer nighttime light.

  • HD resolution: The days of grainy blobs are in the past. Only research cameras that record and livestream in 720 high-definition or higher.

  • Sturdy construction: Your exterior security cameras need to be able to function when there’s poor weather conditions like thunderstorms, heat, or frigid temperatures (some even have a built-in heater). Your interior cameras should survive if they’re bumped or knocked to the floor.

  • Motion detection: Although you can set your cameras for a continuous record, that takes a lot of power and recording space. We recommend looking for a security camera with motion sensors that starts to automatically record when it senses movement.

  • Two-way communication: The top doorbell cameras include an intercom system, which makes it easy to communicate with guests or delivery people without coming to the door. However, the same 2-way audio feature is handy capability with interior or exterior cameras as well.

  • Wireless install: A wireless camera can go anywhere outside or inside your house, and is easy to move if you’d like it somewhere else. This approach is often preferable to wiring your camera straight into your electric wiring.

  • A user-friendly mobile app: How good is a security camera if it’s hard to use? You should look for cameras that come with a mobile app that allows you to watch live streaming in high-definition, record and save clips, and receive notifications when your cameras detect movement. It helps when your security app also controls your complete home security and home automation system.       

Is It Better To Have Your Home Security Cameras Professionally Installed?

Once you understand 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 try to DIY your install. However, if you’re not sure the best places for your cameras, or don’t understand the equipment, it’s better to get professional installation. Security specialists, like Secure24 Alarm Systems, can place your cameras for ultimate security and walk you through the mobile app. You may also want professional installation if your security cameras integrate with a comprehensive home security system.

Find The Best Home Security Cameras in Kalamazoo With Secure24 Alarm Systems

The best home security cameras with expert installation in Kalamazoo come from Secure24 Alarm Systems. Simply contact us at (269) 224-1045 or fill out the form to get your no-cost quote. We’ll show you your best options and how your cameras are an important piece of your home security system.