The Best Indoor and Outdoor Security Systems With Cameras

 

 

When you think of a security system for your property, a camera is likely one of the first things that comes to mind. There are a ton of security systems with cameras to choose from, and the search for the best products can feel pretty overwhelming. Luckily, our guide will help you make a decision.

First, we’ll cover the best security system that comes with a camera. Next, we’ll review a few additional systems. Finally, we’ll answer a few FAQs about security systems that feature cameras.

This post:

• The best security system with a camera
• The top indoor and outdoor security systems with cameras to buy
• Benefits of security systems with cameras
• How to install security systems with cameras
• Security systems with cameras frequently asked questions

 

 

The best security system with a camera

The ButterflyMX video intercom is the best security system for multifamily and commercial properties. ButterflyMX is installed in over 10,000 buildings and has over 20,000 five-star reviews.

Features of the ButterflyMX video intercom include:

• Wide-angled camera lens. Users can see the entirety of your entryway and then some, thanks to a 156-degree wide-angled camera lens. This allows users to see exactly who they are letting into the building.
• Date-and-time-stamped entry events. Every entry event into your property is recorded and filed away into the cloud. You can access this data at any time to identify everyone who has entered your property within a certain time period. If any criminal activity has occurred, this can help locate the party responsible.
• Keyless entry. Users can enter your property with their mobile devices. This relieves them from the burden of carrying around physical credentials. Alternatively, ButterflyMX does include the option for residents to use key cards and key fobs, which are safer than traditional keys.
• Cloud-based software. The video intercom updates automatically, reducing maintenance needs.
• Remote access. Users can provide remote access to guests and delivery personnel. Furthermore, guests can be provided temporary PIN codes that allow them to enter the building. This makes tasks like pet sitting a breeze without compromising building security.
• Weather resistance. With an IP65 weather-resistant rating, this video intercom can withstand the elements when located outdoors.

 

The top indoor and outdoor security systems with cameras to buy

If your unique property doesn’t benefit from an access control system, then you can choose from other security hardware that features cameras. Furthermore, all of the following security systems integrate well with an access control system, such as the ButterflyMX video intercom. Please note that the features we list below are only partial lists of what each security system offers.

The best camera-based security systems to buy include:

1. ZOSI
2. Defender Sentinel
3. EUFY

 

 

1. ZOSI

Cost: $269.99

Zosi offers both indoor and outdoor security systems. One of their standout products is their C186 4MP 8-Channel WiFi Security System, which can feature up to 8 security cameras. We like them because they have a wide range of features for both indoor and outdoor usage, which makes them ideal for most property types. Furthermore, their smart features, such as motion sensor lights, a siren, and two-way audio communication, make this more than just a security camera.

Features:

• Human and vehicle detection
• HD night vision with low-light sensors
• Two-way audio
• Siren
• Motion sensor smart light
• 2 TB of local data storage
• 90° viewing angle

 

2. Defender Sentinel

Cost: $329-$1,632

Defender makes a number of different security systems. Their Sentinel series offers a wired multi-camera system that features an all-in-one cable that delivers power, video, and audio to the camera system. What’s more, Defender offers lifetime support and a 30-day warranty.

Features:

• Remote viewing from mobile devices
• Audio recording
• 4K HD video
• Durable and weather-resistant cameras with an IP66 rating
• Infrared LED color night vision
• Smart human detection
• Motion sensor deterrence spotlight

 

Learn how ButterflyMX works throughout your property:

 

3. EUFY

Cost: $199-$649

EUFY offers an innovative solar-powered security camera series. This solar-powered capability makes this one of the best outdoor security camera systems and one of the best wireless security camera systems with remote viewing capabilities. Moreover, you can place these around your property without having to worry about a power source (other than the sun).

Features:

• 4K video and 8x zoom capabilities
• 1 TB hard drive of data storage
• BionicMind AI that identifies family members and alerts when detecting strangers
• Solar panels on each individual camera
• Alerts are sent to your mobile phone
• IP67 weather-resistant rating
• Integrates with other smart devices such as Alexa and Google Assistant

 

Benefits of security system cameras

Security systems that feature cameras come with many benefits when compared to systems that don’t feature a camera.

Benefits include:

• Crime deterrence. Every criminal is afraid of getting caught. A security camera not only catches them in the act of trespassing on your property, it also reveals and records their identity, acting as a crime deterence. This information is then readily available for the police.
• Video surveillance. This helps you monitor other aspects of your property, such as the number of people who enter your building on a daily basis. You can also review your cameras if you are curious about what time a package arrived or to see if someone is locked out of your property.
• Modernization. Cameras indicate that a security system meets the basic requirements of a modern security system. Residents are more likely to rent with a property that features advanced technology.
• Resident satisfaction. Residents of a property often feel safer when they see an obvious security system that features cameras.

 

How to install security systems with cameras

While you can install some security systems yourself, most systems will require you to hire a professional installer. As access control professionals, we highly recommend that you find a licensed and certified professional installer for your security system.

The only benefit to installing a security system by yourself is that you will save money. However, there are a few very good reasons why spending a few hundred dollars more for professional installation is worth it.

Reasons to hire a professional installer include:

• Advanced training for wiring and electricity.
• Knowledge of positioning cameras and avoiding blind spots.
• Integration with other security systems at your building.
• Fast and quality installation.

The best ways to find a professional security system installer are as follows:

• Find property management forums and see which installers other property managers in your area have used.
• Google search for the closest security system installers in your area and check that they are well-reviewed.
• Call the customer service number for your security system and see if they have trusted partners who will install their system for you.

 

 

Security system with camera frequently asked questions

• Do I need a security system or just cameras?
• Is it better to have wired or wireless security cameras?

 

Do I need a security system or just cameras?

We would argue that the camera is one of the most important aspects of a physical security system. However, your security system needs more than just cameras; it needs door locks and access control systems that allow only users with the right credentials to access a property.

 

Is it better to have wired or wireless security cameras?

There are pros and cons to both wired and wireless security cameras.

For instance, wireless cameras can be installed in a wider variety of locations. However, they still need a power source, such as batteries, which can be tedious to replace. Plus, they often fail at the worst times.

Conversely, wired systems can’t be installed just anywhere. However, you can trust that they will always be connected to a power source.