Types of Security Cameras

Although security camera products vary from vendor to vendor, there are primarily three types of security cameras: indoor, outdoor, and doorbell.

Indoor cameras capture video—and sometimes audio—from within the home. They’re a great way to keep track of young children, boisterous pets, and simply maintain watch over a home or apartment.

Outdoor security cameras capture video—and sometimes audio—from outside a home. An outdoor security camera can help you monitor neighborhood safety, keep track of the people that visit your home, and catch or record any unwanted visits from strangers.

Doorbell security cameras are fairly similar to outdoor cameras. Literally attached to your doorbell, doorbell cameras capture video—and sometimes audio—of anything outside your front door. They are often used to monitor visitors, ensure deliveries make it home safe, and protect against package theft.

The Best Locations to Install Your Security Cameras

When it comes to monitoring your living space with security cameras, the old mantra rings true: the more, the merrier. If you have a security camera for every door, window, garage, hallway, and common space in your home—plus outdoor cameras on every side of your home—you will be able to monitor almost everything that happens in and around your home.

That kind of all-around protection may not be necessary, or affordable, for every user. To cover the essentials, ensure you have coverage of every entrance of your home, such as doors and windows. After that, consider adding additional cameras depending on your unique needs.

Where NOT to Install Security Cameras

It’s important to protect your home, but it’s also just as key to ensure the privacy of others. With that in mind, some security professionals recommend you do not place cameras in bedrooms, bathrooms, or property that you do not own or rent, such as a neighbor’s yard.

Types of Home Security Systems

Traditional home security, sometimes called anti-theft security, is designed to keep intruders out of and away from your property. Anti-theft technology can be as simple as a sound-activated door jam, or it can be more intricate, such as a system of integrated motion detectors and home cameras.

Environmental security systems protect against naturally-occurring hazards: freezing temperatures, leaky pipes, gas leaks, and fire hazards. You may be familiar with one of the most common environmental security alarms on the market: the trusty fire alarm.

Generally speaking, smart home technology uses web-integrated systems that make your life a little bit easier. Smart home tech can open or close your garage door, lock the front door, and even change the thermostat from hundreds of miles away. Many contemporary home security systems use some variant of smart home technology, such as connecting your home’s alarm system to a mobile app.

No matter which home security system type you choose, you can be at ease, knowing that each one is designed to keep your home life safe and simple.

The Difference between Upfront Costs and Monthly Monitoring Prices

Although every home security vendor is unique, most vendors require new customers meet two price points in order to access full security services.

The first price point is known as upfront cost. Upfront costs cover the price of security hardware, software, and, sometimes, professional installation. This cost is typically a one-and-done—once paid, the price doesn’t have to be paid again.

The second price is known as monthly monitoring. Many security vendors actively monitor your home, standing at the ready in case an alarm, camera, or sensor is “tripped.” This price is typically subscription-based and paid per month.

The Benefits of Buying Your Security System Online

Thinking about buying a security system? Consider buying online. When you order your security system on our site, you’re automatically offered some of the best deals and promos the vendors have to offer.

Still not convinced? Buying online means you can easily compare the services and prices of each vendor. Once you buy, your new security system is typically shipped right to your front door. From there, you almost always have the option to return unwanted or broken tech—most vendors offer trial periods and customer warranties.