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Ring’s battery camera is top notch but offers a versatile weather-resistant option for watching the kids wherever they are.
Video quality and presentation
We always care about the accuracy and field of view of our home security cameras. Checking details, both up close and at a distance, is extremely important for live viewing and the quality of recorded video. It’s important to pay attention not only to the resolution numbers and how wide the field of view is, but also whether the brand offers higher resolution behind the subscription (some do).
Video storage
Video storage refers to how easy it is to record and share video, usually either in the cloud or locally through a connected hub/hard drive. Cloud storage is always secured behind the subscription, except in rare cases like Google Nest and a few others. Local storage is generally a better way to avoid subscriptions and still get this important quality of life feature.
Smart home integration
Smart home Support for voice assistants (Siri, Alexa, Google Assistant) or platforms like Google Home or Apple Home isn’t often locked behind subscriptions: what you see in the specs is what you get. This could be limited to one platform (Amazon likes to keep its devices focused on Alexa for now) or spread across multiple platforms. If you already use a voice assistant or a full smart home security system, look for a camera that’s compatible with it.
Object detection accuracy
Object detection, such as recognizing packages or approaching human beings, is another feature that is often locked behind a subscription. Some cameras provide free object detection. Eufy uses human detection in many of its cameras, TP-Link Tapo cameras offer some free detection, and several Lorex cameras offer package and person detection.
Eufy Camera Settings, once found, offer many different ways to customize the camera.
Ease of use of the application
High-quality security cameras come with intuitive apps and easy-to-manage settings. It’s also a big bonus if they don’t have constant pop-ups asking you to sign up for a subscription.
Night vision
We always take a close look at night vision and its distance to make sure it is working properly and provides a lot of benefits for taking photos on the other side of your garden or room.
Two-way audio
Two-way audio features help scare off intruders, talk to strangers, or ask kids to come inside for dinner. It’s always free, but we take a closer look at its quality and scope, too.
Installation requirements
Security cameras usually have wall and/or shelf mounts, depending on how you want to position them. Sometimes you have to order a wall mount or rack separately, so you have a good idea of how you want to position your camera first. Many wall mounts require drilling for mounting, but some come with adhesive mounts, which must be applied to a smooth, clean surface, or they will fail. A drill and screwdriver are usually all you need for installation.
Weather resistance
If your camera is going to be outdoors at all, you should look for a camera with an IP rating, preferably IP65 or higher. This indicates sufficient dust and water resistance for outdoor use in most cases. If it’s very hot or very cold where you live, check the operating temperature range as well before purchasing.