Everything You Need to Choose a Home Security Camera

There’s a lot of factors and features to consider when choosing a home security camera for your family. Home automation, cost and installation are just a few factors to consider to help protect your home. We’ve narrowed down factors to keep in mind as you expand your home’s security. 

The difference between wired vs. wireless security cameras

Wireless security cameras can be placed anywhere and connect to Wi-Fi for features such as motion-triggered alerts when the camera detects activity, smart home connectivity and to work with your control panel. Many indoor security cameras are wireless and easy to set up anywhere without wires and cords. 

Wired security cameras should be professionally installed for a hassle-free set-up. Professional technicians can install and connect ADT cameras to your monitored ADT home security system for an interconnected security system. Outdoor security cameras are wired for secure placement to withstand weather and thieves trying to move them.  

Shop by home security camera features 

High definition (HD) quality - When taking a peek at your home from your smartphone or computer you should have a clear live view just as if you were home. The best security cameras have 1080p HD quality or better for crystal clear images and videos of your home without distortion or blurriness. 

Night vision - Today’s security cameras are designed to easily show your home in darkness. Your camera’s night vision uses built-in infrared LEDs to show your home’s vicinity at night. The best night vision for a home security camera extends at least 6 meters. 

Continuous video recording - Some security cameras continuously record your home for you to playback later. Other cameras are designed to only capture and record motion-triggered activity using the camera’s motion sensors. Your recording preference will depend on your home’s security needs.

Field of view - The wider the field of view, the more you’ll be able to see in your camera’s view. It’s best to have a 120-degree wide-angle view of your home or better to see more of your home’s vicinity through your camera - the smaller the degrees, the smaller the view of activity in your home. 

Motion sensors - The best security cameras have built-in motion sensors that detect heated activity from cars, people or pets. If activity is detected, you’ll receive a mobile alert to see the live footage from your smartphone or mobile device. 

Weather resistance - If you’re shopping for an outdoor camera make sure it’s designed to withstand extreme weather conditions including rain, snow and humidity. ADT’s outdoor camera has a built-in heater to make sure your camera works in temperatures below 42 degrees Fahrenheit.

Security camera factors to consider 

1. Installation - There are two common ways to set up your home security camera and connect it to your system. You can have a professional technician install and connect your camera to other equipment for whole-home security.
   
   

2. Video storage - Many home security providers offer a limited amount of cloud storage to safely store your security camera’s clips for you to see anytime using your smartphone or the web portal. Or you can store your videos locally using a memory card - which could be risky if the card falls into the wrong hands, and may not record if the card is full.
   
   

3. Smart home security connectivity - If you have a home security system or smart home devices, you may want interconnected home security. Some cameras can be controlled with other smart home devices to control lights, locks, cameras and more through one mobile app. 

Home security camera FAQs

Is Wi-Fi required for home security cameras?

Popular home security cameras require Wi-Fi to connect to your control panel, send motion-triggered alerts to your phone and other smart features.

How much does a security camera cost?

The cost of a camera varies depending on a few factors and features. ADT’s security experts can help you find the best camera based on your home’s security needs. The best security cameras start at $100.  

How do I install a wireless security camera?

Most wireless cameras are easy to install by plugging into a power outlet and connecting to Wi-Fi. Other wireless cameras are battery-operated to place anywhere.