Get Started With Security Cameras

MacFormat UK

April 2017

A security camera is many people’s first smart home device, and new models have increasingly sophisticated technology

There’s no doubt that we see more information about security cameras than any other type of smart home product. In fact, browsing the website of one high street electronics store recently revealed no less than 68 different cameras, with the majority falling into the £100 to £200 price range.

Having such a wide range of products can make it difficult to choose one. Whichever you pick there are a number of key features and technologies that it’s worth considering when you buy your first security camera.

Look sharp

Top of the list for any camera, of course, is image quality. We’ve all seen news reports on TV with video footage that’s so blurry you end up wondering why they bothered spending any money on a CCTV system in the first place. Most manufacturers provide affordable, entry-level security cameras with 720p resolution (1280x720 pixels) for around £80, and we’d certainly recommend that as the minimum requirement for a security camera.

Ideally, though, it’s worth stepping up to a camera that delivers full HD video (1080p, or 1920x1080 pixels). Netgear’s Arlo Q (£170, bit.ly/ 2kX20vE) is one of the most affordable cameras of this quality; most cameras designed for indoor use seem to settle at around £160, though we’ve seen this one for as low as £120. Full HD cameras will provide much better image quality if you ever need to use footage as evidence in the unfortunate event of a crime. A good camera in this price range should also provide a night-vision mode for low light conditions.