The resolution and field of view of home security cameras are important factors to consider when choosing a camera. It is crucial to check the detail up close and at a distance, as well as the quality of the recorded video. Some brands may lock higher resolutions behind a subscription, so it is important to be aware of this when making a purchase. Video storage is another key feature to consider, as it determines how easily video can be recorded and shared. Cloud storage is often locked behind a subscription, while local storage is a better option to avoid subscriptions.
Smart home integration is an important aspect to consider when choosing a home security camera. Support for voice assistants or platforms like Google Home and Apple Home can enhance the overall functionality of the camera. Object detection, such as recognizing packages or human-shaped beings, is another feature that may be locked behind a subscription. Some cameras offer free object detection, such as Eufy using human detection and TP-Link Tapo cams offering some free detection. Usability of the camera’s app is also crucial, as it should be intuitive and easy to manage without constant pop-ups for subscription sign-ups.
Night vision is a key feature to consider when choosing a home security camera, as it allows for capturing images in low-light conditions. Ensuring that the night vision is working properly and offers sufficient distance is important for security purposes. Two-way audio features, which allow users to communicate with intruders, strangers, or family members, are typically free and should be of high quality and range. While Blink’s person detection works well, it is a subscription-only feature, which may be a drawback for some users.
Ultimately, when selecting a home security camera, it is important to consider various factors such as resolution, field of view, video storage, smart home integration, object detection, app usability, night vision, and two-way audio. By carefully evaluating these features and comparing different camera options, users can ensure that they choose a camera that meets their security needs and preferences. Subscription-based features should also be taken into account, as they may limit certain functionalities that are important for security purposes.