Smart security cameras explained

Unlike old-school security systems, smart cameras are made to be easy to set up, and as user friendly as possible. 

While this is the case, it is also easy to get confused between whether you're getting an actual security camera, or just a fancy webcam. The pair tend to get bundled together which can make for an underwhelming sense of security, which probably isn't what you're looking for if you've found your way onto this page.

In this guide we will talk you through everything you need to know about choosing your smart security camera.

In this guide:

• What is a smart security camera?
• Are smart security cameras safe?
• How do smart security cameras work?
• What to look for in a smart security camera
• Are smart security cameras worth it?
• Best smart security cameras for Amazon Alexa
• Best smart security cameras for Google Nest
• Best smart security cameras for Apple HomePod

What is a smart security camera?

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A smart security camera is kind of like a webcam, except smarter. The devices connect to your smart home ecosystem and WiFi connection, allowing you to control them remotely in the same way you would a smart light bulb. WiFi security cameras usually connect to your tablet or smartphone, allowing you to receive updates, live stream the camera view, and control them remotely.

Smart security cameras are the new generation of home security. Rather than having footage sent back and monitored by people doing the same for hundreds of other households, you have the power to watch and protect your home from a distance, and store the footage on the cloud to recover whenever you need it. Keep in mind that not all features come built in to the camera, most will require an additional subscription to unlock all the service has to offer.

Most smart security cameras, also provide you with alerts if a potential security issue has taken place, such as motion detection. While this might not seem like a necessity, if you're not looking to pay a subscription to save your footage, these alerts could be the only thing that allows you to see if a breach has occurred.

Are smart security cameras safe?

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Like anything in this digital age, security cameras are open to hacks and data breaches, but taking the proper precautions can help keep your security secure. 

Simple actions can reduce the risks of hackers gaining access to your WiFi security cameras.

Set up two factor authentication

If it is available, two factor authentication adds an extra layer of security when you log in to your camera app. Much like you get when signing into Gmail for example, you will need to enter a code or confirm that the login is coming from an authorised source.

Use a password manager

These programs create strong, random passwords that make it harder for potential hackers to use your credentials. Most platforms will create, store, and autofill the passwords automatically - just don’t forget your password for your manager.

Make sure your camera’s firmware is up to date

Like most of our devices, security cameras need regular software updates to make sure they are running bug free. Most manufacturers routinely release updates to patch camera vulnerabilities, some will need to be manually updated in settings while others will download the updates automatically.

How do security cameras work?

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Smart security cameras are similar to other devices in your smart home ecosystem. They can usually operate through their own apps, but can also integrated with smart home ecosystems like Google Nest or Amazon Echo.

Smart home devices work by connecting through the shared WiFi network in your home. Using an app, you can usually access controls and monitor your live stream, straight from your device.

The basics

Wired or wireless security cameras, such as smart cameras work by transmitting video via your internet connection. In some ways they are like webcams, displaying real time imagery of whatever the camera sees, but in other ways these devices are also similar to digital cameras which store the information for viewing at a later date.

In most cases, you will need to pay a nominal fee for the footage to be stored on the cloud through the camera manufacturer.

Connecting to the network

Getting your smart camera up and running should be as easy as plugging it in, and connecting it to your internet via a designated app.

Security cameras in your smart home ecosystem

For those setting up a smart home, you’ll want to find a security system that fits into your ecosystem. Many cameras can connect directly with your smart home hub, by showing footage through a central screen, or allowing you to manage them through the one app along with your other smart home devices.

As always, make sure your security camera is compatible with your chosen ecosystem. We give our picks for the best smart cameras for Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and Apple HomePod further on in this article.

What to look for in a smart security camera

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Bear in mind that smart home security systems don’t have to be installed all at once. WiFi cameras give you the option to expand and modify your network as needed, or even completely uproot and move it elsewhere. So when you’re looking for smart security options, you have the flexibility to look for features that suit you at this exact moment, without worrying about a costly upgrade if your situation changes.

Camera Quality and Resolution

As you can imagine, picture quality is crucial in security cameras, after all there is no point capturing an image of an intruder if you can’t make out who they are. A resolution of 720p (HD) should do the trick, but if you’re willing to spend a little bit more, then 1080p (Full HD) or 4K resolution are always a better option.

Field of View and Tracking

Static cameras are a great option for small spaces, but the problem is that criminals are generally pretty smart. If heist movies have taught us anything, they can generally figure out blind spots, and dodge lasers, and probably drop through the ceiling as well. Even if you ignore those last two, the scope of what your cameras actually cover are incredibly important.

When choosing your cameras, look for surveillance cameras that have a wide viewing angle to start, or can tilt, and pan as much as possible. The best ones can rotate up to 355 degrees horizontally and 90 degrees vertically, and have automatic tracking to follow movement within that range.

Recording and Storage

In the case of a break in, or wanted to loop back around to something cute your pet did earlier in the day, you’re going to want to have ready access to your camera’s recordings. While most smart cameras allow you to view a live stream, many may require you to upgrade to a plan in order to store your footage. The majority of these are cloud based, but the odd system will still have a back to base set up, or use a microSD card instead.

Many smart devices will automatically begin recording when an action triggers a response, such as detecting movement. Others will continuously record, so you won’t miss a moment, although your storage will fill up much faster.

Battery Life and Connectivity

Most cameras will operate off your home WiFi network, so in order for them to work properly they will need to be be able to connect without issue. You'll need to make sure your network and internet plan can handle the devices you are adding to your ecosystem. Video cameras will generally use download and upload speeds simultaneously, and the more that are connected the more bandwidth that they will require to operate effectively.

You'll also want to assess whether you want a battery, or cabled powered camera. The upside to battery powered devices is that they can be set up anywhere, however they will need to be charged from time to time. Wired cameras will need to be positioned to constantly have access to a power source, so that is something you will need to consider when selecting your install area.

Are smart security cameras worth it?

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There are a lot of pros when it comes to smart security cameras. As opposed to their counterparts, smart security cameras offer more flexibility and customisation. You’re free to start with one camera and slowly build up as you see fit, rather than forking out for a full system straight off the bat. If you find a blindspot, you can move the camera without needing to call someone in to fix it up and you can monitor it all from the palm of your hand.

On the flip side, you are taking security into your own hands. For some people, this may be a relief, but for others who prefer to set and forget, or who might get anxious monitoring their own home - it might not be the best option. While the upfront costs may be lower than the systems of old, the ongoing recording costs can also stack up.

As a general rule, smart security cameras are a great, low start up cost, and portable option for most households. If you’re looking to dip your toe in, to see if security cameras will fit into your lifestyle, then these are easily the best way to try it out.

Best smart security cameras for Amazon Alexa

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Best smart security cameras for Google Nest

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Best smart security cameras for Apple HomePod

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