CCTV cameras were outright expensive a few years ago, however, with the advent of technology, they have become affordable. Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras are used for monitoring and safety purposes as they record everything when installed so that you can view them at any time. It is especially true if you want to safeguard your property and assets such as your home, office, garages, etc., or else burglars and trespassers may cause harm both monetary and to someone’s life.
However, you can’t just walk into an electronic store or check out Amazon to get the first CCTV camera you get your hands on. As with any piece of electronics, you need to know certain things about these cameras that will be guarding your life, assets, and properties. Here are 10 days you must know before you buy a CCTV camera.
- CCVTV Camera FAQs
- What is the range of the camera?
- Does it have a 2-way audio chat feature?
- What is the storage?
- What is the Image quality?
- Does it have a motion and audio sensor?
- Is it easy to set up?
- Check if the camera is waterproof
- What is the number of infrared LEDs on the camera?
- Does it support pan/tilt motion or is it fixed?
- What is included as accessories in the box?
- Decide if you want wired or wireless cameras
- What is the warranty on the CCTV cameras?
- Best CCTV Cameras to Buy in India
CCTV Camera FAQs
What is the range of the camera?
Cameras can’t just snag everything that a human eye can see. It has a point of view and a range that it can reach which is 20 to 25 meters minimum. Again, the more range your security camera has, the better since it will capture more ground often resulting in a breakthrough in case your CCTV camera was a witness of any burglary or any grieve scene.
Does it have a 2-way audio chat feature?
Although not all CCTV cameras will have a 2-way video chat feature, some models allow you to communicate with family or employees by audio via the camera thanks to a 2-way communication channel. You can use your CCTV’s companion app to communicate with those in front of the camera and they can simply speak to the camera and the built-in mic will record and relay it back to you.
What is the storage?
When you buy a CCTV camera, you can either buy one with a built-in SD card slot. It gets you 32GB, 64GB, and up to 128GB of storage depending on which SD card you have inserted. Another option that you have is using DVR or simply a separate external storage where all the recordings will be stored automatically. The latter is cheaper than the former although both have their pros and cons.
What is the Image quality?
The thing about CCTV cameras is, that you need to have good image quality to decipher details in recordings. Modern CCTV cameras are available in 720p, 1080p, and higher resolutions. However, you need to keep the storage in mind to select the image quality since a 720p recording for 24 hours can consume almost 30GB thereby filling the storage on an SD card immediately. If you have a DVR, you can go for a higher resolution since you have much higher storage at your disposal.
Newer CCTV cameras have an overwriting feature that will start erasing recordings captured at the beginning and replace them with new recordings. However, you will lose the recordings once it has been overwritten. Thus, that’s a decision that you must take to get your hands on an ideal security camera for your home or office.
Does it have a motion and audio sensor?
CCTV cameras with motion and/or audio sensors tend to be expensive, however, they are worth it. These smart security cameras can detect unusual sounds and motion and alert homeowners about the same. There’s a feature with a motion sensor that will record people or any movement while it stores scenes where there’s no movement. It can save a lot of storage space since it won’t save any files with no motion at all.
Is it easy to set up?
Unless you want to get a technician to set up and install CCTV cameras, you must look out for models that are easy to set up. It includes positioning mounting, setting up of the camera on the systems, and so on. Without a pan or tilt mode, you would need to position the camera in a way that it will record areas that you want to record and not unwanted areas. There are of course more ways to position and mount cameras depending upon where and how you want to install them.
Check if the camera is waterproof
You can install the CCTV cameras indoors or outdoors depending upon where you want the surveillance. For outdoor cameras, you should always opt for waterproof options unless there’s no rain where you are located. Having a waterproof camera also keeps it away from moisture and splashes just in case which is something that could render an electronic device unusable.
What is the number of infrared LEDs on the camera?
Ever wondered why red LEDs light up during nighttime? Well, it is used for vision during the night as the more the number of Infrared LEDs, the better the quality of the recording would be. Thus, consider CCTV cameras with a higher number of LEDs.
Does it support pan/tilt motion or is it fixed?
You can get your hands on CCTV cameras which can be either fixed or it can pan or tilt and move horizontally or vertically respectively. It enables the cameras to capture larger space compared to a fixed view. Some smart security cameras can pan or tilt based on the commands fed via the companion app.
What is included as accessories in the box?
The next thing you should look for is the accessories in the box that come along with the CCTV cameras. It includes cables, point screws, mounting stands, and others. Some low-cost cameras may not get power adapters within the box and thus, you will have to buy them separately.
Decide if you want wired or wireless cameras
You can either buy a wired camera or a wireless one and both have their pros and cons. A wired CCTV camera is available in India at a cheaper price tag and is much more reliable than its wireless counterparts.
On the other hand, wireless cameras are better known for their mobility as you can simply put them anywhere assuming that it is in range of Wi-Fi. These can be expensive, however, are great examples of saving yourself from the hassles of using other aesthetic means to hide wires and cables. All you need is a good-quality internet connection and a router and that’s pretty much all you need to use the wireless cameras.
What is the warranty on the CCTV cameras?
CCTV camera models from makers and models will have distinct warranty periods ranging from one year to three years or even more. It is better to get at least a year of warranty to safeguard yourself from damage due to XYZ reasons that are covered under warranty terms.
Best CCTV Cameras to Buy in India
1. CP Plus 3MP Full HD Smart WiFi CCTV Camera
Price-Rs. 1835
Features- CP Plus 3MP Full HD Smart WiFi CCTV Camera is a 1296p resolution Plug and Play device that offers crisp images revealing the smallest of details with absolute clarity. The camera works with Alexa and OK Google so one can use it hands-free to enjoy a safe and smart home. The camera has a 360-degree Pan and 85-degree tilt by Ezycam that saves the cost and trouble of installing multiple cameras in any space to cover a full view of the area. You can view your home on your phone as it allows live footage of your home/office anytime anywhere in the world on your mobile. The CCTV by CP Plus is very simple to install and just needs to connect to your local WiFi to start working. You can also talk to the person on the other side while you see their video feed and stay in touch with loved ones 24×7. It supports up to 128GB SD Card, a mobile app with 4 split live views, an EzyCam+ web client with 9 split live views, and more.
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2. TP-Link Tapo C210 360-degree 3MP CCTV Camera
Price-Rs. 2399
Features- TP-Link Tapo C210 3MP CCTV Camera covers every corner as it can pan and tilt easily. The camera is motion-sensitive which means it detects motion and sends you an alert right away. The CCTV offers an advanced night view that helps you guard while you are asleep. It comes with 3MP resolution so every detail is captured in high resolution and that too live. There is two-way audio so you can stay in touch with your pets even if you are far away from them as you can talk to them through the camera. Privacy mode can be turned on to shut down the surveillance to ensure the safety of privacy. There is a local micro SD card that stores up to 256GB of data equal to 512 hours of footage and prevents hacking incidents. The wide range gives a detailed look at your room and you can also capture amusing moments to play them on loop or share them with other family members. There is an app that allows you to play previous records, set a schedule to check periodic video, set the camera at a fixed angle based on your needs, and check what happens in multiple Tapo cameras with one app.
3. IFITech Bulb Shape 3MP CCTV Camera
Price- Rs. 1975
Features- IFITech Bulb Shape 3MP CCTV Camera captures sharp and clear 2304×1296 HD Resolution footage from the day-to-night stream and views the live stream from anywhere using the phone app. It works with 2.4GHz WiFi internet and records 24×7 video footage to be viewed anytime, anywhere without missing any details. Live streaming of the footage can be done on Windows computers, Android and iOS smartphones, and other devices. The camera is easy to install as one just has to plug the camera into the bulb holder to start using it. There is no need for wiring, power cable, or an electrician. The camera has a B22 Holder base type which is compatible with all Indian electric holders. The camera allows pan and tilt options, two-way audio, a 110-degree wide-angle lens, motion detection alerts, color night vision, two recording modes, playback, and more.
4. Qubo Smart 360 Ultra 2K 4MP CCTV Camera
Price- Rs. 3290
Features- Qubo Smart 360 Ultra 2K 4MP CCTV Camera can sense, alert, and deter with advanced AI capabilities. It looks out for unwanted dangers 24×7 Qubo app immediately notifies you in case of a security breach. Its 4MP 2K sensor makes sure that one doesn’t miss anything even in low light. The camera comes with customizable night view vision and enhanced low-light vision so one doesn’t have to deal with grainy, black-and-white footage in low-light conditions. Qubo app offers features like different security modes, notification settings, recording settings, and more. Qubo CCTV camera is available in 40+ cities and is supported by Alexa and Google Assistant.
5. Sonata Gold WiFi FHD CCTV Camera
Price-Rs. 1499
Features- Sonata Gold WiFi FHD CCTV Camera offers 1080p Pan Tilt resolution. It offers a clear view at any time, day or night. You can cover 360-degree views with 1 single camera that is easy to install and requires a simple WiFi setup. It is a 2-in-1 security camera as it comes with 3 flood lights built in. The built-in floodlight turns on automatically when someone passes by during the night. The camera offers motion detection and an instant app alarm that alerts you as soon as motion is detected. It comes with a remote viewing feature as well so you can keep an eye on what matters anywhere and anytime. The CCTC is IP67-rated and allows two audio and video communication.
6. Hevalls 360 CCTV Camera
Price- Rs. 1499
Features- Hevalls 360 CCTV Camera is a 1080p Full HD and colorful night vision PTZ Camera. With a resolution of 1920×1080 and built-in 4PCS Effective Array IR LEDs and 4PCS White LED you get clear and nice video in day as well as night. Two-way audio and motion detection functions are available so you can stay in touch and stay alert all the time. There is a remote with a camera that allows real-time and accurate movement alert with snapshot pushed to your phone. It is IP66 rated so the camera is weatherproof and it supports up to 128GB of class 10 series memory card and cloud storage. There is colorful night vision, a reset option, dual antenna, microphone, speaker, and more to keep you safe.
7. Philips WiFi HSP3500 3MP 2K CCTV Camera
Price- Rs. 3599
Features- Philips HSP3500 3MP 2K CCTV Camera allows you to view, record, or respond from wherever you are. The camera is smart enough to differentiate between motion, noise, and people and can be set up in a few simple steps. Philips Home Safety App support is available along with a 360-degree view, a Reset button, and an SD Card slot. The video is recorded in high quality and can be played whenever you like. There is two-way audio, enhanced night vision, and micro SD Card storage to keep your privacy intact. Philips offers a 2-year replacement warranty and an at-home service warranty for 2 years. All you need is a stable WiFi connection to get the camera activated. It captures all movements using 360 pan, tilt, and zoom feature.
8. Mi Xiaomi Wireless Home Security Camera
Price- Rs. 2799
Features- MI Xiaomi Wireless Home Security Camera comes with AI Motion detection and enhanced night vision. It has 360-degree surveillance coverage and offers 2MP FHD footage. Two-way talk is allowed through the CCTV and works seamlessly with Alexa and Google Assistant. MI CCTV camera offers 7 days of Free Cloud Storage and easy monitoring with the Mi Home App along with features like Intruder alert, camera viewer app, 1920x1080p video quality, 16x playback, and more. Night color vision, 10-meter night vision range, and 20 fps frame rate. It easily connects through Bluetooth and WiFi and can be mounted on the wall.
9. Zebronics Zeb Smart Cam 100 CCTV Camera
Price- Rs. 1299
Features- Zebronics Zeb Smart Cam 100 CCTV Camera offers a wide-angle view with a 2MP camera and supports Android and iOS devices. It acts as a 2-way communication channel and is easily accessible from anywhere and everywhere. The CCTV Camera is supported by Alexa, OK Google, and more and can be monitored remotely from anywhere. It has an advanced motion sensor, smart compression, microSD card support, and a plastic body weighing around 200 grams.
10. Godrej Security Solutions EVE Pro CCTV Camera
Price- Rs. 2599
Features- Godrej Security Solutions EVE Pro CCTV Camera comes equipped with advanced humanoid detection technology, providing you with the highest level of protection and peace of mind. It offers intelligent motion tracking technology, intrusion intrusion-activated siren, a wide-angle view, and an integrated mic for live talk-back. Family View Share allows you to share live video feeds with your family members so you can all monitor your home’s security in real time. The Eve Pro camera’s HD ultra-clear night vision provides sharp and vivid footage in low light conditions and adjusts the brightness to offer clear pictures up to 33 ft/10 meters, keeping your home safe and secure 24/7.
Wrapping Up
CCTV cameras are a must-have thanks to the increased risk of theft, burglary, or some grieving incidents across countries. A CCTV camera doesn’t just help make sure the culprit is arrested but it also gives you a sense of relief that you can keep an eye on your belongings even if you are miles apart. Current CCTV cameras are technologically better than before and can detect audio or motion, have zoom/pan/tilt functionalities, and can record videos up to 4K although you need to shell out more for it.
This entire CCTV camera buying guide gives you all the things you must know before you go to buy a security camera as these are some important questions you must ask. If you are buying it online, these questions are enough to give you a direction on what you should be looking for in the listings.
