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Outdoor camera in Olympia
August 27, 2020

What To Look For When Getting A New Home Security Camera In Olympia

Most home security systems include at least one home security camera in Olympia. But with so many different types and options for cameras, it's tough to know what you actually need. Do you get one from a big-box store and do a DIY install? Or is it preferable to have your cameras professionally installed? Should you try to find one that live streams in full HD? How do you decide between an exterior camera affixed to the overhang or a doorbell camera?

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

Three types of security cameras in Olympia

3 Types Of Home Security Cameras in Olympia

Here are the three most common kinds of home security cameras in Olympia. Each type has a special type of use and can easily fit within your residential security system:

  • Outdoor home security camera: These types of cameras attach to the outside of your home to offer a view of your yard and common entryways.

  • Indoor home security cameras: Indoor cameras are fixed to a wall or are placed on a level surface, and usually show a single room within your home.

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

What Makes A “Good” Security Camera In Olympia?

Stroll through the security camera aisle in your local big-box store, and you’ll quickly see that there’s many differences in camera quality 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 view as much terrain as it can. If you don’t have a wide-angle lens, there will be more blind spots and areas for people to hide. Try to get cameras with at least a 140° to 180° wide angle.

  • Low-light vision: Your camera should be able to see what’s going on in the dark. Try to find a camera that uses infrared LEDs that provide nighttime illumination.

  • HD resolution: The days of grainy shapes should be history. Only research cameras that record and stream in 720 high-definition or higher.

  • Sturdy construction: Your outdoor security cameras should be able to withstand bad weather like storms, heat, or cold temperatures (some even come with a built-in heater). Your indoor cameras should survive if they’re bumped or knocked to the floor.

  • Motion sensors: Although you can set your cameras for a non-stop record, that takes a lot of power. We recommend looking for a security camera with motion sensors that starts to automatically record when it recognizes movement.

  • Two-way communication: The best doorbell cameras include an intercom system, making it easy to talk with visitors without coming to the door. However, similar 2-way audio feature is nice functionality with interior or exterior cameras, too.

  • Wireless functionality: A wireless camera can be placed almost anywhere outside or inside your home, and can be moved if if you’d like to position it elsewhere. This approach is usually more common than wiring your camera directly into your electric wiring.

  • A user-friendly mobile app: What good is a security camera if it’s difficult to see your feeds? Get cameras that include a mobile app so you can see live feeds in HD, record and save clips, and get alerts when your cameras sense motion. It’s nice when your camera app also controls your comprehensive home security and home automation system.       

Is It Better To Have Your Home Security Cameras Installed By A Professional?

Once you figure out what’s important for you in a residential security camera, you need to choose how you’re going to install your cameras. If you’re good with tools, you may try to install your cameras yourself. But if you are unsure the best places for your cameras, or have questions about the components, explore professional installation. Specialists, like Secure24 Alarm Systems, know the best spots to place your cameras for ultimate security and connect your cameras to the mobile app. You may also look into professional installation if your security cameras sync with a full residential security system.

Get The Best Home Security Cameras in Olympia With Secure24 Alarm Systems

The best home security cameras with professional installation in Olympia come from Secure24 Alarm Systems. Just contact us at (360) 200-8536 or send in the form for your no-cost quote. We’ll talk through your best options and how your cameras are an important piece of your residential security system.