best surveillance cameras
Surveillance cameras – Buying and Comparison Guide in 2022
Surveillance cameras can help you increase security in your home by being able to view different areas without being in them, as well as in shops, public places, etc. If you are interested in investing in a camera or a set, we advise you to consider the SuperEye D2-UK model, since it has a compact size and what is captured by its lens can be seen through the mobile phone. Another good option could be the Boifun CT0337, in case you want to take care of your baby 24 hours a day. It includes a 3.5” color monitor and various extra functions.
Opinions on the best surveillance cameras
Since the current market in surveillance cameras is quite large and it can be a bit complicated to know which model to buy, we have prepared a selection of interesting models that could have what you need to reinforce the security of your home or work.
Wi-Fi surveillance camera
SuperEye D2-UK
SuperEye offers you a Wi-Fi surveillance camera in case you require a wireless device for greater installation comfort. Some users consider it the best surveillance camera, as it is equipped with a lens capable of capturing images with 1080p HD resolution. This will help to better identify what needs to be visualized.
In addition, this outdoor Wi-Fi surveillance camera has a modern and compact design. It has dimensions of 8.5 x 8.5 x 10.1 centimeters and its weight is just 522 grams, so you can install it without discomfort.
As for its connectivity, it makes use of an application that is available for both Android and iOS through which you can have a live view of the camera lens and make all the adjustments you require.
On the other hand, the equipment incorporates a two-way audio system in case you want to communicate via the surveillance camera.
Being, possibly, the best surveillance camera of the moment, it is recommended that you get to know it more thoroughly:
Pros
Panoramic: This model offers you a panoramic view, since it can rotate its lens up to 355° horizontally and 110° vertically.
Microphone: The microphone has an anti-noise filter system which will be responsible for maintaining communication without interference.
Movement: It has a motion detection sensor to activate just when someone appears at your entrance.
Night: It has a night vision system so you don’t miss what’s happening at any time.
Cons
Wifi: Keep in mind that it cannot work with Wifi networks in 5Ghz frequency.
baby surveillance camera
Boifun CT0337
If you are interested in investing in a baby surveillance camera, the Boifun brand might have an eye-catching option for you. The CT0337 model is made up of a camera and a monitor, through which you can watch your little one at all times and even communicate with him thanks to the two-way audio system.
It is also considered that it could be one of the best surveillance cameras of 2022 for babies, since up to four units can be added per circuit in case you want to have a view from various angles. It also has a night vision system, a very important detail to increase the child’s vigilance and safety.
The design of the device is modern, but discreet, white in color and compact in size. The monitor has a 3.5” LCD screen with a resolution of 960 x 240p in full color, offering a good quality image.
If you don’t know which surveillance camera to buy to take care of your little one at all times, consider what this Boifun equipment offers you:
Pros
Technology: It stands out that it incorporates GFSK technology to improve both input and output audio quality.
Temperature: The camera has a temperature sensor to measure it from the monitor.
Music: Another of the functions it offers is remote music playback, very useful for calming the baby.
Monitor: The monitor is cordless and uses rechargeable lithium-ion batteries.
Cons
Power: Keep in mind that the camera must always remain connected to a power outlet in order to be used.
surveillance camera for car
Cross Tour E-CR500
In case you need to install a car surveillance camera, the E-CR500 model could be of interest to you. This device stands out for having a built-in HD lens with 1080p resolution, being able to record details for possible claims.
Its capacity to record video is 30 frames per second and, in addition, on the back it incorporates a 2.7” LCD screen that will show data of interest, such as the date, time, whether it is recording or not, among others. plus.
On the other hand, it is quite useful in the event of an accident, since the camera has a G-Sensor that, when detecting a collision, saves what is captured by the lens and blocks it to protect possible evidence.
As for its design, the E-CR500 has a size of 4.7 x 8.6 x 3.3 centimeters and a weight of just 63.5 grams, being discreet so as not to block your vision when driving.
Some buyers may consider that the Crosstour could be the best value for money surveillance camera and now you can evaluate its pros and cons:
Pros
Lens: The camera lens has a resolution of 12MP to offer good quality images and contrast.
Night vision: The equipment has a night vision system, to be useful at any time of the day.
Storage: Its storage capacity can be expanded up to 32GB.
Base: The purchase includes a suction base with which you can easily install it on your windshield.
Cons
Battery: It does not have its own battery, so it must remain connected to the car’s cigarette lighter.
wireless outdoor surveillance camera
Kodak-W101
The renowned Kodak brand offers you a wireless outdoor surveillance camera with its W101 product. It is a discreet design model. Its dimensions are 8 x 5 x 7 centimeters with a weight of 349 grams, so you can easily install it thanks to its kit.
As for its resistance, this device has the IP65 certificate, so it can be placed both indoors and outdoors as it is resistant to water and sun.
On the other hand, the Kodak outdoor surveillance camera has a 1080p high-resolution lens and a night vision system with a range of 8 meters, making it a good way to monitor the entrance of your home, for example.
As for its use, you will have to download the Kodak application for mobile phones and from there you will be able to access real-time viewing as well as review previous recordings if necessary.
If you don’t know which is the best surveillance camera, taking into account the characteristics of this equipment could help you:
Pros
Batteries: The camera requires four standard LR6 batteries capable of offering a range of between 4 and 6 months.
Solar panel: It is compatible with the Kodak solar panel in case you do not want to have to worry about changing or recharging the batteries.
Audio: The audio system is bidirectional in case you want to communicate with someone through the camera.
Sensor: It has a motion sensor to activate the recording as soon as it is activated.
Cons
Storage: You cannot keep it recording continuously nor does it offer an internet storage system in case it is stolen.
wireless surveillance camera
Fredi YY100S-LB807-ES
From the Fredi brand we present this model that stands out for offering 24/7 monitoring regardless of where you install it. It is very useful to cover the perimeter of the home or business, as well as it can be useful as a surveillance system for businesses.
You won’t have to worry about rain or sun either, since the equipment has the IP66 certificate that guarantees its resistance, so that it will not be affected by the elements.
With this Fredi wireless surveillance camera you can enjoy a Full HD 720p resolution in full color from your mobile phone, thus maintaining constant monitoring if you need it or if one of its sensors is activated.
In addition, the camera has a robust and attractive design in white and its dimensions are 19.6 x 10.4 x 10.2 centimeters with a weight of 540 grams. It can be installed on the wall and must be recessed, thus preventing a stranger from easily taking it away.
If you are still not convinced, then you can better study its most important advantages and disadvantages:
Pros
Range: The camera has a wide 90° viewing angle, to observe entire spaces without problems.
Infrared: It has infrared sensors, so you can see what is captured by the lens even in the dark.
Temperature: You can work in an environment with a minimum temperature of -10°C and a maximum of 50°C.
Notifications: In the event of motion detection or suspicious activity, the camera can send notifications to your mobile phone.
Cons
Storage: Consider that it does not include a storage unit and it must be purchased separately.
autonomous surveillance camera
Vodafone V Camera
The V-Camera equipment is an autonomous surveillance camera of the Vodafone brand. It has a minimalist and modern design with dimensions of 7 x 7.8 x 9 centimeters and a weight of 354 grams, being discreet and compact as well.
Regarding its performance, the device has a high capacity lens capable of offering a 130° panoramic vision for greater safety. It should also be noted that the camera makes use of a Vodafone SIM card included in the set, so you can place it pretty much wherever you want.
It is made of water-resistant materials, in case you want to install it outdoors, and it uses a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that can last for up to a month, so you don’t have to handle the equipment too often.
Another of its advantages is that it has a built-in motion sensor that can detect the presence of individuals or animals, and thus send immediate alerts to the user’s mobile phone.
This model could belong to the best brand of surveillance cameras, so you should know its advantages and disadvantages:
Pros
Wireless: This is a wireless surveillance camera that can be easily installed wherever it is needed.
SIM card: To transmit the information, it makes use of a 4G SIM card included with the purchase.
Night vision: The lens has an infrared night vision system for monitoring at any time.
Application: You can manage all the functions and settings of your camera from the Vodafone mobile and tablet application.
Cons
Payment: It is necessary to consider that, when working with a SIM card, a plan of approximately 7 euros per month must be paid to enjoy the service.
Surveillance camera without Wifi
Conceptronic CCAM720DAHD
This device is one of the cheapest, probably because it is a surveillance camera without Wi-Fi, that is, it requires a wired installation. This equipment works with a connection cable of 18.3 meters so that you have freedom when choosing where to place it.
It has a protective casing that makes it resistant to the elements of the weather, in case you need to install it outdoors and, in addition, its design is comfortable to handle with a size of 20.5 x 15.5 x 8.8 centimeters and a weight of 449 grams.
It should also be noted that the surveillance camera has a lens with a resolution of 1280 x 720p, thus offering high-resolution images for better viewing. In addition, it has infrared LEDs for night vision and the temperature range in which it can perform goes from -10 °C to 50 °C to be used in both winter and summer.
Conceptronic offers you one of the cheapest options in the selection and here are its pros and cons:
Pros
LEDs: This camera has a total of 24 LEDs with which you can enjoy good quality night vision.
FPS: It can capture up to 60 frames per second, so you don’t lose any detail of what’s happening.
Installation: Its design allows you to install it on both ceilings and walls as needed.
Resistance: It has a robust manufacture and good finishes to be suitable for interiors and exteriors.
Cons
Angle: The viewing angle may be somewhat limited compared to other models, since it offers only 60 °.
Surveillance camera accessories
surveillance camera poster
Wolpack 15050920
If you need a surveillance camera sign to alert people to the presence of these teams, the Wolfpack model might interest you.
This product offers you a poster that has dimensions of 30 x 21 x 1 centimeters. It is yellow in color and features the design of a surveillance camera logo as well as offering a space to post data of public interest.
On the other hand, it is highlighted that the sign is made of plastic and is suitable for installation both indoors and outdoors, since it will not be affected by the sun or rain.
Guide to buying a surveillance camera
Before you can choose a good surveillance camera, you could take into account some features that, as observed, influence the performance of the equipment and, therefore, your user experience. If you want to know what they are, we invite you to continue reading.
Shopping guide
surveillance camera design
The design of the camera you are going to buy is very important, especially if you are interested in keeping it hidden.
However, since the market is so wide and varied, by searching carefully and taking into account what is mentioned in this guide to buy the best surveillance camera, you will be able to make a good investment.
The design encompasses everything that constitutes the physical aspect of the camera, from its size, weight, color and installation system. Some models are designed to be placed in plain view so people know they are being watched, but others are more discreet and, thanks to the variety of sizes, you can place them almost anywhere.
Also, you should consider the weight of the camera, as this will influence the ease of installation or transport in case you want to monitor different places with it.
Manufacturing materials
When reviewing a comparison of surveillance cameras, it can be seen that many users question what the manufacturing materials are. This may be due to the fact that, in many cases, the cameras are located outside buildings, houses, offices, shops, etc. Therefore, the surveillance camera must be able to withstand the elements of the weather.
In this type of case, considering the manufacturing materials can provide information about its resistance and durability, in addition, we advise you to check if the model you are interested in has a certificate that guarantees waterproofing, for example.
Transmission Mode
Another feature that we recommend you review thoroughly before choosing which one to buy is the mode or method of transmission of what is captured by your lens. This may affect how much it costs, but it could also save you a lot of hassle.
Some surveillance camera options come in sets that include their own monitor, so you don’t have to spend extra money. However, others must be connected to a central computer and this, in turn, to a monitor that allows images to be viewed. Generally, these types of surveillance camera systems have several units in the same set, being able to provide a clear view from different rooms or angles.
On the other hand, the method used for camera connectivity, either with the monitor or with the transmission system, could also be considered. You can choose between products that are wireless as well as wired, leaving it up to you and your budget to choose the most appropriate one.
Featured Features
Although it could be thought that a surveillance camera is only used to record, however, technological advances have allowed the implementation of more and more functions to these systems to be more useful. However, you should consider that this could affect your purchase of a good and economical option, since, with more functions, the price generally increases.
In case the aforementioned is not an influential aspect for you, you will be pleased to know that you can purchase surveillance cameras with motion sensors, which will save battery life by activating the lens only when something is detected. Others could also include night vision systems, thus helping to keep an eye on your property at all times, or with audio recording.
Installation requirements
One of the features that you cannot overlook is the installation requirements of the surveillance camera. Depending on whether it’s a multi-unit system or a single camera, you’ll need to consider placement possibilities.
Depending on its design, the camera may need to be flush mounted, which would mean cutting holes in your wall. Others can simply be placed on a flat surface or hidden inside other objects.
In case you have a system of several units in hand, check if they need wiring or can be connected wirelessly to avoid extra work.
Accessories included
Finally, you can review the included accessories. Some surveillance cameras may come with mounts to place them on the wall, a table, or even on the dashboard of your car.
If you take into account the type of use that you are going to give the camera and the accessories that it includes, it will be easier for you to determine if it is really worth your investment of money or not.
Frequently asked questions
Q1: How to hide a surveillance camera?
Depending on the model of the camera and the place where you want to install it, you could opt for multiple alternatives to choose from to hide the device with its surroundings.
For example, if the camera is compact in size, you might choose to place it inside a planter at the entrance to your home, so you know who is at your door before you open it.
You could also choose more remote places, such as in a bookcase, inside a piece of equipment that is not used or that is for decoration, in addition to disguising its presence by placing the device internally on the wall or ceiling.
Q2: How to know if a surveillance camera is on?
There are several methods to check if a surveillance camera is on or not and it depends on its model. Some emit a perceptible buzz, especially if they are mobile. Others may display an indicator light near the lens or on the camera body.
In case you have one with night vision, you can check the status of the LEDs. If you notice red lighting on them, the camera is on. Also, you could apply the method of covering the camera’s light sensor with your finger, in order to verify that it works correctly.
Q3: How to know if a surveillance camera has audio?
The only way to know for sure if a surveillance camera is capable of detecting audio from your environment is to check the manufacturer’s specifications, since the elements that make up this function can be so small that they go practically unnoticed.
However, you should keep in mind that, depending on where you want to install it, you may have to review the legal aspects of this, since the use of microphones is not allowed everywhere, as it is considered an invasion of privacy.
Q4: How much data does a surveillance camera consume?
To determine how much data your surveillance system will consume, you can take into account a simple rule that determines the compression format of the images captured by the lens.
In general, surveillance cameras use two compression formats: H264/H264+ with which it could be calculated that it consumes approximately 4MB for each MP of the lens. Regarding the second format, this is the H265/H265+ and, as indicated by some users, its approximate consumption is 3MB per MP of the lens.
According to what has been indicated, the most convenient thing would be to check the video format of the surveillance camera of your interest in case you want a low data consumption of your internet service.
Q5: Can I use a cell phone as a surveillance camera?
Yes you can, in fact, there are applications specially designed to be able to use your mobile phone as a surveillance camera. You just have to have a camera equipment and the adequate capacity to be compatible with the software of your choice.
Then, you must browse the virtual market of your operating system and check which ones are available. You may come across free options as you pay and it will be up to you to decide which one suits you best.
How to use a surveillance camera
If you have purchased a surveillance camera or a closed circuit system, but do not know how to use it properly, in this space we offer you some instructions so that you can install your equipment without problems and thus enjoy all its benefits.
Check the components
The first step you must carry out is to carefully review all the components with which the surveillance camera you bought works. As you know, this will depend on the model. Some include a monitor that you’ll need to pair with the camera, while others require a more complex installation method that might require wiring and mounting.
Make sure everything is in order and take this time to review the instruction manual in case you have any questions about how to set up the system properly.
Locate the device(s)
When you have all the elements ready, the next step will be to find the right location for your surveillance camera or cameras. For this, you must take into account if the camera has a special base to locate it or not. If it does, you just have to place it in the proper position and place your camera on a flat surface.
On the other hand, there are models that have their own base integrated and these, in general, must be embedded in the wall or ceiling, either by using a drill and screws or by locating an internal support on the surface.
Connect them to the system
After you have your camera installed and almost ready to use, the next thing you need to do is connect it to the system and this, again, will depend on the type of surveillance camera. With the models that use Wi-Fi connectivity, you must use an external device, be it a mobile phone, a computer, a tablet or the same monitor as the camera, to be able to link it to the wireless network of your home or work.
For surveillance systems that use multiple cameras, you could find yourself with a wiring requirement, which you must do according to the manufacturer’s instructions, either by linking the cameras to each other, and then bringing the connection to the playback monitor or also pairing them with the Wifi.
Feature Settings
The configuration of the functions is a very important step, since several systems and offers in surveillance cameras offer products capable of performing extra functions thanks to components integrated in them.
If your camera has this advantage, we advise you to navigate to the configuration menu so that you can change the factory parameters according to your needs, be it regarding the sensitivity of the motion sensor, the use of night vision, video recording, among many other options.
Increase storage capacity
Finally, since some surveillance cameras have little or probably no storage capacity, it is important that you consider expanding it if the model allows it.
To do this, you must first check what type of storage unit the camera is compatible with, since it could be a simple Micro SD card such as a hard drive and also the maximum capacity supported by the equipment.
