ADT® Authorized Dealer Serving Dothan & Southeastern Alabama
Outdoor camera in Dothan
August 27, 2020

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

Most home security systems use at least one home security camera in Dothan. But with all the different types and features for cameras, it's hard to know what camera features are really important. Do you buy one from a hardware shop and set it up yourself? Or is it better to have your cameras installed by a specialist? Should you look for a camera that streams in HD? How do you decide between an outside camera affixed to the overhang or a doorbell camera?

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

Three types of security cameras in Dothan

Types Of Home Security Cameras in Dothan

There are three common kinds of home security cameras in Dothan. Each type has a unique purpose and can easily be included with your residential security system:

  • Outdoor home security camera: These kinds of cameras hang on the exterior of your home to provide a wide view of your property, driveway, and common entryways.

  • Indoor home security cameras: Indoor cameras hang from a wall or rest on a level surface, and usually record a single room within your home.

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

What Makes A “Good” Security Camera In Dothan?

Take a quick look down the security camera aisle in your local big-box store, and you’ll quickly see that there’s a wide range of camera durability and specs. Here’s a list of features to look for in your home security camera:

  • Wide field of vision: In most cases, you will want your camera to scan as much space as it can. If you don’t have a wide-angle lens, you have a higher chance of blind spots and places for people to hide. Try to find cameras with at least a 140° to 180° field of vision.

  • Low-light clarity: Your camera should be able to see what’s happening at night. Get a camera that has built-in infrared LEDs that provide nighttime light.

  • HD resolution: The days of grainy shapes should be history. Only research cameras that record and broadcast in 720 HD or more.

  • Exceptional construction: Your outside security cameras should be able to function when there’s bad weather like thunderstorms, heat, or freezing temperatures (some even include a built-in heater). Your interior cameras should absorb shock if they’re bumped or lightly fall to the floor.

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

  • Two-way communication: The best doorbell cameras have an intercom system so you can speak with delivery people or visitors without answering the door. You can even find similar 2-way audio functionality with indoor or outdoor cameras as well.

  • Wireless functionality: A wireless camera can be added almost anywhere on or inside your home, and is easy to move if necessary. Wireless install is usually more popular than wiring your camera to your home’s wiring.

  • An easy to use mobile app: How helpful is a security camera if it’s a complicated mess to view its feeds? Get cameras that come with a mobile app so you can see live streaming in HD, record and save clips, and get notifications when your cameras sense motion. It helps when your camera app also manages your complete security and home automation system.       

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

Once you have learned what you’re looking for in a home security camera, it’s time to decide who’s going to install your cameras. If you’re handy, you may see if you can DIY a solution. But if you don't know where to place your cameras, or can’t figure out the equipment, go ahead and get professional installation. Professionals, like Secure24 Alarm Systems, will place your cameras for complete security and walk you through the mobile app. You may also want professional installation if your security cameras integrate with a full residential security system.

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

The best home security cameras with professional installation in Dothan come from Secure24 Alarm Systems. Simply contact us at (334) 219-8334 or complete the form below to get your no-cost quote. We’ll talk through your options and how your cameras can become an important part of your home security system.