ADT® Authorized Dealer Serving Minneapolis & The Twin Cities Metro Area
Outdoor camera in Minneapolis
August 27, 2020

What To Look For When Purchasing A Home Security Camera In Minneapolis

It's easy to see why most home security systems include at least one home security camera in Minneapolis. But with so many different models and features for cameras, it's tricky to know what you really need. Do you buy one from a retail shop and do a DIY install? Or is it preferable to have your cameras professionally installed? Should you ask for one that live streams in full HD? How do you choose between an exterior camera attached to the overhang or a doorbell camera?

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

Three types of security cameras in Minneapolis

Types Of Home Security Cameras in Minneapolis

Here are the three most common types of home security cameras in Minneapolis. Each has a specific type of use and can easily fit within your residential security system:

  • Outdoor home security camera: These kinds of cameras are installed on the exterior of your home to provide a wide view of your property, driveway, and main entrances.

  • Indoor home security cameras: Indoor cameras hang from a wall or are placed on a level surface, and primarily record one room within your home.

  • Doorbell cameras: A doorbell camera replaces your current doorbell and lets you see who’s on your front porch.

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

Stroll through the security camera row in a popular retail store, and you’ll discover that there’s a wide range of camera quality and specs. Here’s a short list of what you should look for in your home security camera:

  • Wide field of vision: You’ll likely want your camera to scan as much area as it can. Without a wide-angle lens, you’ll likely have blind spots and areas for intruders to hide. Look for cameras with at least a 140° to 180° wide view.

  • Low-light clarity: A camera’s not much good if it can’t record what’s going on during the night. Look for a camera that comes with infrared LEDs that offer nighttime light.

  • HD resolution: The days of pixelated shapes are in the past. Only look at cameras that record and livestream in 720 HD or more.

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

  • Motion detection: Although you can set your cameras for a continual record, that requires a lot of power. We recommend looking for a security camera with motion detectors that begins to automatically record when it senses motion.

  • Two-way communication: The top doorbell cameras include an intercom system, which makes it easy to communicate with delivery people or visitors without coming to the door. You can also find similar 2-way audio capability with indoor or outdoor cameras as well.

  • Wireless functionality: A wireless camera can be added wherever you’d like outside or in your house, and can be moved if if you’d like to position it elsewhere. Wireless placement is often more popular than wiring your camera straight into your electric wiring.

  • An easy to use mobile app: How helpful is a security camera if it’s difficult to use? Explore cameras that come with a mobile app that lets you view live streaming in high-definition, record and email clips, and receive notifications when your cameras perceive movement. It’s convenient when your mobile app also syncs with your comprehensive security and home automation system.       

Is It Best To Have Your Home Security Cameras Installed By A Professional?

Once you know what you want in a residential security camera, it’s time to decide how you’re going to install your cameras. If you’re good with tools, you may try to install your cameras yourself. But if you’re not sure where to put your cameras, or don’t understand the equipment, explore professional installation. Experts, such as Secure24 Alarm Systems, will hang your cameras for complete security and connect your cameras to the mobile app. You may also look into professional installation if your security cameras pair to a complete residential security system.

Find The Best Home Security Cameras in Minneapolis With Secure24 Alarm Systems

The best home security cameras with quality installation in Minneapolis come from Secure24 Alarm Systems. Just call (612) 314-0605 or fill out the form for your complimentary quote. We’ll walk you through your options and how your cameras are an important piece of your home security system.