ADT® Authorized Dealer Serving Topeka & Surrounding Areas
Outdoor camera in Topeka
August 27, 2020

What To Ask For When Getting A New Home Security Camera In Topeka

Most home security systems have at least one home security camera in Topeka. But with all the different models and features for cameras, it's hard to know what’s actually important in a camera. Do you get one from a big-box store and install it yourself? Or is it preferable to have your cameras installed by a pro? Should you look for a camera that live streams in full HD? And what's better, an outdoor camera right under the overhang or a doorbell camera?

To discuss these questions and more, here is what you should look for in a Topeka home security camera.

Three types of security cameras in Topeka

3 Types Of Home Security Cameras in Topeka

There are mostly three different kinds of home security cameras in Topeka. Each one has a special purpose and can easily integrate with your residential security system:

  • Outdoor home security camera: These kinds of cameras attach to the outside of your home to offer a wide view of your property, driveway, and main doors.

  • Indoor home security cameras: Indoor cameras are fixed to a wall or sit on a flat surface, and typically view one room in your home.

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

How Do You Know It’s A “Good” Security Camera In Topeka?

Stroll through the security camera section in a retail store, and you’ll quickly see that there’s many differences in camera quality and features. Here’s a list of what you should look for in your home security camera:

  • Wide field of vision: You'll probably want your camera to view as much terrain as possible. If you don’t have a wide-angle lens, you have a higher chance of blind spots and places for intruders to hide. Try to find cameras with at least a 140° to 180° wide view.

  • Low-light vision: A camera’s not much good if it can’t record what’s happening during the night. Look for a camera that uses infrared LEDs that provide nighttime illumination.

  • HD resolution: The days of digitized blobs are in the past. Only consider cameras that record and livestream in 720 HD or more.

  • Durable construction: Your exterior security cameras need to be able to stand against bad weather like storms, high heat, or frigid temperatures (some even include a built-in heater). Your indoor cameras should absorb shock if they’re bumped or lightly fall to the floor.

  • Motion detection: Even though you can program your cameras for a continual record, that takes a lot of power and recording space. Instead, try to find a security camera with motion sensors that begins to automatically record when it senses motion.

  • Two-way communication: The best doorbell cameras come with an intercom system, making it easy to speak with visitors without answering the door. However, similar 2-way audio functionality is handy feature with indoor or outdoor cameras as well.

  • Wireless functionality: A wireless camera can be placed almost anywhere on or in your house, and is easy to move if needed. Wireless placement is often more common than wiring your camera straight into your home’s wiring.

  • An easy to use mobile app: How helpful is a security camera if it’s a pain to manage? Explore cameras with a mobile app that lets you watch live feeds in high-definition, record and store clips, and get alerts when your cameras detect motion. It helps when your mobile app also controls your overall home security and home automation system.       

Should You Have Your Home Security Cameras Installed By A Professional?

Once you figure out what you want in a home security camera, it’s time to decide if you should get your cameras [[professionally installed|installed by a pro|installed by a professional. If you’re handy, you may try to DIY your install. However, if you’re not sure the best places for your cameras, or don’t understand the tech, it’s better to get professional installation. Specialists, such as Secure24 Alarm Systems, can place your cameras for ultimate security and show you how to use the mobile app. You may also explore professional installation if your security cameras sync with a full residential security system.

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

The best home security cameras with quality installation in Topeka come from Secure24 Alarm Systems. Simply call (785) 268-2982 or send in the form to get your complimentary quote. We’ll show you your options and how your cameras can become an important part of your home security system.