CCTV or Close Circuit Television cameras have become a handy gadget today. Whether it's to deter theft, or crime or ensure business security, CCTV cameras can make the job much easier for general people, business owners as well as law enforcement authorities. Some may even install CCTV to keep a check on their beloved children, pets, or elderly people at home.
But with so many choices in the market, it becomes difficult to choose the right CCTV that will best fit your needs. To make things easier, we have compiled a list of the best CCTV cameras at different price ranges and a comprehensive checklist of things you should consider before getting one.
Things to Consider Before Buying a CCTV Camera
There are several things to consider before buying a CCTV camera from types to usage. Here’s a list of absolute musts that you should look into first.
Types
Diverse types of CCTV cameras are found in the market depending on their size, shape, connection mechanism, and use cases. The most common types of CCTV cameras include
- Dome cameras
- Bullet cameras
- Turret cameras
- Pan-Tilt-Zoom cameras
- Box cameras
- IP cameras
- Night vision cameras.
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Purpose and Requirement
The next thing you should consider is the purpose of your CCTV camera. Do you want a CCTV camera for security purposes? Or do you want to monitor a kid or a pet? Do you plan to use it outdoors or indoors?
For outdoor use, Bullet and PTZ cameras are best suited. For indoors, a dual communication IP camera can be a perfect choice as you can easily monitor activities through the included app.
Camera Features
In terms of camera features, the first thing you should consider is the picture resolution. Most CCTV comes in either 720P or 1080P resolution. High-end expensive cameras can record at up to 4K.
If you plan to use a single camera, consider going for PTZ and Turret-type cameras. For indoors, consider cameras that have dual communication features. For outdoor use, consider getting cameras with water protection rating and night vision.
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Storage Option
Most CCTV cameras come with dedicated storage between 256 to 512 GB. Some IP cameras offer cloud storage options. If you plan on saving a few bucks, consider getting the IP cameras that provide free unlimited cloud storage options. Otherwise, you may have to sign up for a cloud storage subscription.
Connectivity
You also have a host of choices in terms of connectivity. There are wired as well as wireless CCTV cameras. IP camera from Xiaomi also has a multi-point connection system where it can work with Amazon or Google Home services.
Depending on your budget, you can also consider a traditional power adapter, battery-powered, or power over ethernet at an incremental order.
Installation and Maintenance
While most CCTV cameras today are made for DIY installations, you might consider setting it somewhere that might require a professional hand. Some vendors offer installation services so consider checking the options.
Also, consider reading up on the use and maintenance guidelines to make sure your CCTV camera lasts a long time.
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