How Much Does a Home Security System Cost in 2025?

Last Updated on January 21, 2025 by Alarm New England

This post was last updated on 1/7/2025

There are many options when it comes to buying a home alarm system, including doorbell cameras, motion detectors, security cameras, and electronic locks. Regardless of variety, a home alarm system can be crucial in stopping a break-in, documenting important events and making homeowners and businesses always feel safe.

However, understanding everything about home alarm system cost, including labor, equipment, and system functionality can be difficult. Here’s how to help yourself out when it comes to alarm systems.

Local vs National

A local security comany, with over 47 years of experience, Alarm New England helps families and businesses feel safe and taken care of here in New England. With our extensive knowledge of security, we’re here to help you understand the cosst of home security and create the perfect alarm system for your home.

Smaller, local security companies specialize in home security in your community or town. Typically, local, privately-held security companies are known for better service and pricing. National companies may have better name recognition, but that doesn’t mean they are the best choice for you or your family. National security companies sometimes cannot work on brands of home security systems that you already have, while local home security companies can work with you to reuse any current home security system you are using.

Another benefit of using a local security company is that they are based near you. They can get to you quickly and usually have several home security technicians working in your area. National companies tend to have one technician for an entire region. Finally, most local alarm companies will work with you to create a customized system for your home. They are not just selling you cookie cutter packages. They want to custom design the best home security system for your home and family.

Know What You Need

When it comes to equipment, you should ask yourself what you’re wanting to protect and how much protection you want.  Selecting these items all contribute to your security system cost.

When it comes to equipment, you should ask yourself what you’re wanting to protect and how much protection you want. Do you want to make sure no one is lurking around outside? Do you want to see who’s at your front door at all times? Is controlling your system from your smartphone a must have? Selecting these items all contribute to your security system cost. There are various pieces of equipment that can come with a comprehensive alarm system such as:

  • Motion Detectors: There are multiple kinds, but all motion detectors are used to alert you when someone inside your home when they shouldn’t be. Motions can be extremely effective at covering a large space in place of window contacts. Higher quality motion detectors can usually understand the difference between a pet or a human; however, it’s important to read the product specifications to make sure you won’t be getting false alarms.
  • Video Doorbells: It can be scary to open the door when you don’t know who is on the other side. Video doorbells take that fear away by allowing one to see who’s on the other side of the door. Newer video doorbells may offer two-way talking so you can talk to who is at the door and they can answer you. In some cases video doorbells can trigger a doorbell when someone approaches and send alerts if children leave areas they aren’t supposed to. It can also protect packages that are dropped off at your door and a homeowner can see everything happening from your iphone app.
  • Electronic Locks: Electronic locks can be a great way to keep your home safe. Electronic locks come in many shapes and sizes and are better than regular deadbolt locks because they require special codes or biometrics to unlock them.
  • Security Cameras: It may be obvious, but security cameras have so many advantages. They deter criminals, allow you to have a constant eye on your property and save video that you can use if someone breaks in. There is a wide range of pricing, functionality, and overall quality for cameras. Wireless cameras can be cost effective but comes at the price of changing batteries every few weeks. In contrast, hard-wired traditional cameras can be expensive depending on the functionality. Often, the best cameras are exclusive to dealer channels without ever being on the market direct to consumers.
  • Smoke Detectors: Fires happen every day. The best way to keep your family and property safe is by having smoke detectors integrated with your alarm system. When smoke detectors are included with your security system, they are controlled by a keypad or control panel. If the system detects signs of fire it may alert you with a horn, siren or lights as well as notifying the alarm company which will react accordingly. The goal of smoke detectors are to ensure your safety by making sure everyone is aware of the threat, has time to evacuate and notify emergency personnel.
  • Door and Window Contacts: Door and window contacts are a two-piece system with one part sensor and the other part magnet. When a door or window is opened, if the alarm is on, and the sensor and magnet will separate, the sensor will get a signal to the alarm panel and an alarm – a chime or voice announcement will sound announcing the door has been opened.

It’s important to remember that burglars aren’t the only thing you need to protect your home from. Natural disasters and everyday events can wreak havoc on your life as well. Whether that be a fire, flooding or an earthquake, your alarm system can save you thousands of dollars if all the parts are working together.

  • Smart Thermostats: Families can easily turn their regular thermostats up and down all day long to make their home a comfortable temperature. Smart thermostats get rid of that hassle and handle your home temperature settings for you. Once you set temperatures for every time of the day you want, the smart thermostat takes it from there. Did we mention it could save you some money?
  • Flood Monitors: These monitors are usually offered as add-ons to most alarm systems. Flood monitors are used to detect leaks and water before a catastrophe happens. It could potentially save thousands of dollars because your home won’t get ruined due to flooding.

Think Long Term

Wireless vs. wired alarm systems is something to think about when looking at home alarm system costs. Wired alarm systems are connected through telephone and wires running through the walls connecting the devices on the system to the control panel. Wireless systems are connected through sensors, alarms, and other equipment. These pieces are are monitored through a control panel in the house.

With wireless systems, almost everything is easier. Running wires in a finished home is very expensive and can damage your walls making wireless systems also more cost effective.

Another item to think about is whether you get an unmonitored or monitored security system. There are two types of unmonitored systems: self-monitored and truly unmonitored systems. Self-monitored systems are all hooked up to the house and send you notifications through a control panel and your connected smartphone.

Unmonitored systems are truly unmonitored; they record video and then set off an alarm when an intruder is detected. There are no notifications. Unmonitored systems may be more affordable, but they are also less safe and less convenient.

Monitored systems have the same equipment and can still notify you but they have professional home security technicians to keep an eye on things as well. a central monitoring center watching your home 24/7. Without monitoring, what happens when you are driving or in a meeting or asleep? Monitored may be more expensive but it’s less hassle, more secure, and has a higher rate of handling emergency situations.

Read the Fine Print

When it comes to looking at home alarm system costs,  it is very important to read the fine print. Which is usually where contracts come in and people can get confusted about security system cost.

When it comes to contracts in the security business, it is very important to read the fine print . Which is usually where contracts come in and people get confused about security system cost. When making a choice on a security company and working on a contract, pay attention to every detail including equipment costs, labor, monthly monitoring fees and contract terms.

A recommended approach – calculate total contact cost: monthly fee times number of months on the contract plus up front labor and equipment costs and compare companies that way.

An example: Brinks Security 29.00 monthly fee x 36 months of the contract plus the $199 labor and equipment costs equals total contract cost of $1,939.00.

Also, when looking at home alarm system costs, check to make sure the company cannot raise your rates while you are under a contract term. It may seem more affordable up front, but there could be higher monthly fees or long-term contracts.

One thing that’s important to know is that nothing is ever free. Anything that is offered as “free” is really only free when you enter into the correct contract and the fee is covered by that payment.

Each customer is different – some want monthly payments and others want to get it all out of the way, like ripping off a band aid. A few alarm companies will give you the option for paying for everything up front and give you the flexibility of a month to month contract. Most will require a termed contract of 3 years or more but these companies will often help reduce your upfront cost.

A month-to-month option offers flexibility to those who need to cancel and restart their alarm system. Customers pay the full cost of the equipment and installation and then pay for monitoring every month. There’s also the chance that a three-year contract could say the monthly cost starts at one price but then increases. So, we’ll say it again, read the fine print.

Consider Your Budget

If you are like most people, the cost of home security will also be a big consideration. While every company offers different prices, an average alarm system can cost can range anywhere from $300 to $3000. This cost depends on equipment, monitoring fees, and system features.

Alarm New England: Here to Help

For over 47 years we’ve been helping families and businesses feel safe and taken care of here in New England. With our extensive knowledge of security, we’re here to help you find and create the perfect alarm system for your home.

We offer a variety of technologies such as doorbell cameras, security cameras, motion detectors, and smart thermostats. Our dedicated team has experience with all areas of New England and can make the new move an easier process by providing you the tools for building an alarm system that fits your needs.

Dedicated to providing the latest technology in security systems, we can guarantee you’ll love the safe feeling of having our recommended products installed in your home within the budget you want. If you’d like to speak with one of our team members about managing the cost of home security, reach out and call us, so we can create a security package specifically for you—your way, your choice.

Top 15 Home Security Tips in 2025

Last Updated on January 21, 2025 by Alarm New England

Your home is your sanctuary, a place of comfort and safety for you and your loved ones. Ensuring the security of your home is paramount, and there are several key tips and practices you can follow to enhance your home security and enjoy peace of mind.

Best Security Tips for the Modern Home

Home security is simple in concept. You want to feel safe and comfortable in your house. So, you want to do as much as possible to ensure that safety. No questions asked. Below are some effective home security tips to help you effectively safeguard your living space.

1. Install a Home Security System

One of the most effective ways to protect your home is by installing a home security system. These systems typically include door and window sensors, motion detectors, surveillance cameras, and an alarm system. Many modern systems can be monitored remotely, allowing you to receive alerts and check on your home while you’re away.

2. Reinforce Entry Points

Burglars often target vulnerable entry points like doors and windows. Reinforce these areas by installing solid doors with deadbolt locks and shatterproof glass windows. Additionally, consider installing security film on windows to make them more resistant to break-ins.

3. Adequate Outdoor Lighting

Well-lit exteriors can deter potential intruders. Install motion-activated lighting around entryways, pathways, and dark corners of your property. Timed lighting systems can also create the illusion of an occupied home when you’re away.

4. Secure Your Garage

Garages are common targets for burglars, as they often contain valuable items and provide access to the interior of the home. Keep your garage secure by using a high-quality lock on the door, and consider installing a security system specifically for the garage.

5. Landscaping Matters

Maintain clear sightlines around your home. Trim bushes and trees near windows to eliminate potential hiding spots for intruders. Ensure that your home is visible from the street, reducing the chances of unauthorized access.

6. Lock Doors and Windows

It may sound obvious, but many break-ins occur because doors and windows were left unlocked. Develop a habit of locking all doors and windows when you leave home, even if it’s just for a short time.

7. Reinforce Sliding Doors

Sliding glass doors can be vulnerable. Install a bar or rod in the track to prevent the door from being forced open. You can also add security film to reinforce the glass.

8. Be Mindful of Spare Keys

Avoid hiding spare keys in obvious places like under the doormat or in a fake rock. Instead, leave spare keys with a trusted neighbor or invest in a secure electronic lock system that allows remote access.

9. Home Security Signage

Displaying signs and stickers from your home security provider can act as a deterrent. Even if you don’t have a security system, these decoys can make potential intruders think twice.

10. Neighborhood Watch

Participate in or create a neighborhood watch program. Neighbors looking out for each other can be an effective way to deter crime and respond quickly to suspicious activity.

11. Secure Valuables

Consider investing in a home safe to protect important documents and valuable items. In the event of a break-in, a secure safe can keep your most precious belongings out of reach.

12. Know Your Neighbors

Building good relationships with your neighbors can be a valuable asset in maintaining home security. They can keep an eye on your property when you’re away and alert you to any unusual activity.

13. Regular Maintenance

Periodically inspect and maintain your home security system to ensure it’s functioning correctly. Change the batteries in your alarms and cameras as needed.

14. Create the Illusion of Occupancy

When you’re away, make it appear as if someone is home. Use timers to turn lights and radios on and off, and consider asking a neighbor to collect mail and packages.

15. Security Cameras and Alarm Systems

Invest in security cameras and alarm systems that provide real-time monitoring and notifications. Many modern systems allow you to control and monitor your home security from your smartphone, no matter where you are.

Follow These Tips And Keep Your Home Safe 

Securing your home is a vital responsibility, and these home security tips can significantly enhance your safety. By implementing these measures and staying vigilant, you can help protect your home and loved ones, creating a secure haven for you and your family. Remember that the key to effective home security is a combination of preventive measures, technology, and community awareness.

Best Home Security Systems in Boston 2025

Last Updated on February 10, 2025 by Alarm New England

Everybody wants to feel safe in their own home, and more people are considering getting security systems than ever before. When you start looking at the best home security systems in Boston, you’ll be surprised by how many services are available.

You can—and should—take the time to look up reviews of several home security systems to get an idea of which ones are reputable and which ones to avoid.

If you’re still feeling overwhelmed by the number of choices, we’ve taken some of the most popular home security systems in Boston MA and examined them in several categories. Our review will give you an informed perspective so you can decide which one will best meet your needs.

How We Choose the Best Home Security Systems

Every household has different requirements and expectations for its security system. Some people want wireless home security systems, while others prefer more straightforward systems.

The three main categories that people use to make their decisions are usually price, customer service, and the features and equipment that come in the system.

Smart Home Security System

Each of the security systems we’ve reviewed surpasses some of these criteria and may be lacking in others. There is no perfect service, unfortunately. So, your best bet is to find a home security system that meets your needs and budget.

Price

Many people only consider the upfront costs of installing a home security system, but they forget to think about the monthly expenses. We take both upfront and monthly fees into account in our reviews.

Customer service

Ideally, you want to be able to reach your home security system provider at any time possible. We evaluate response times, as well as times when you’re able to contact the provider.

When choosing the best home security system, you also want to factor in other aspects of customer service, such as cancellation policies and equipment warranties.

Features and equipment

Some people want high-tech smart home security systems, while others prefer traditional alarms. Some people purchase home security systems with cameras, while others consider cameras invasive.

customer using total connect app

We take a look at all of these features and evaluate systems on their reliability, ease of use, and how well they fit into your current lifestyle.

Let’s explore some of the best home security systems in Boston in 2025.

Alarm New England

We are a local security and monitoring company that services Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island.

What sets us apart is our focus on training its staff members to excel at their jobs. Staff training, along with an expansion of support staff, means that you can rest assured knowing your home is in good hands.

alarm monitoring

Price

Unlike many other home security companies, you don’t have to sign a three-year contract. Instead, you have the option to pay monthly and cancel at any time.

Plans start at $27 per month, including essential equipment such as a touchscreen panel, burglar detection, and wireless sensors. The top tier of services offers video monitoring for $52, which is perfect if you want a home security system with cameras.

Customer service

Because we’re a local company, we place a significant emphasis on customer service and customer satisfaction. And it shows: most customers leave satisfied reviews online.

Our customer service team is only available Monday to Friday, but our website has an extensive FAQ section that should address most of your concerns after hours and on weekends.

Features and equipment

We offer a whole host of equipment and features, ranging from straightforward control panels and sensors to complete smart home integration.

lyric controller panel

You can decide whether you want a burglar alarm system or if you want something more comprehensive. We will draw up a plan over the phone to meet all your needs.

If you already have a security system installed but want to switch to a new security company, you can switch to Alarm New England for minimal upfront cost.

alarm technician

A certified technician will even come and test your system and make sure that it’s fully functional and protecting your home. That’s an added value and level of flexibility you won’t find with many other providers.

ADT

If you’ve ever thought about home security, you’ve most likely heard of ADT. It’s a leader in home security and is a popular choice for home security systems in Boston due to its strong brand.

adt home security

Price

ADT offers five main security packages via its Protect Your Home program. Each has various options, giving you plenty of flexibility in what you get and what you pay. The base security plan costs just $28 per month, including basic security equipment to secure your home.

ADT also requires users to sign a two-year or three-year contract, although it offers a six-month guarantee if you’re unsatisfied with either the service or your installation. Certain conditions do apply, so make sure you read the fine print before signing your contract.

Customer service

ADT’s customer service times vary by region. ADT has a reputation for having highly variable customer service. Some people report excellent customer service; however, other customers have had negative experiences with pushy dealers and rude customer support staff.

Local Boston reviews suggest that ADT dealers in Boston fall on the negative end of the spectrum. So, if customer service is essential to you, you may want to take a look at some of the other competitors in the area.

Features and equipment

When you sign up with ADT, you’ll get equipment based on the package you signed up for. At a bare minimum, you’ll get one motion sensor, a control panel for the base system, wireless sensors around the home, and a wireless remote.

If you want something more, you’ll have to pay for one of the more advanced packages. An advanced package can include cameras, keypad door locks, motion detectors, window sensors, and even home automation.

SimpliSafe

SimpliSafe’s entire philosophy is right in its name. It provides a security offering that is completely customizable and easy to use. You can order the equipment directly online, install it yourself, and set the level of monitoring you want.

Price

SimpliSafe sells its equipment as a stand-alone package without the need for a monthly contract. The simple base station and keypad are $185, or you can look at the various equipment bundles that start at $230 and end at just under $500.

simplisafe

There are also two monthly monitoring options available. The simplest is just $15 per month, which is a 24/7 alarm monitoring system. The second option features SMS notifications, special alerts, and remote control, in addition to the monitoring system, for $25 per month.

Customer service

SimpliSafe offers 24/7 emergency service, but its regular call hours are limited to business hours. Some people find the service hours too short, but agents are responsive. As SimpliSafe doesn’t have any technicians in-house, they hire third-party companies to go out to customers to perform on-site maintenance and troubleshooting.

Features and equipment

The best thing about SimpliSafe is that you can include as many, or as few, features as you need. You can either build your system or use one of its equipment bundles to set up your security system.

The system can be controlled either via a wired control panel or a keychain remote control. There are also indoor video cameras that offer a broad lens view—perfect for eliminating blind spots.

Vivint

Vivint is at the forefront of smart home security systems, offering fully automated packages that integrate into its other smart home offerings. You can easily use your Vivint system to control your thermostat and garage door in addition to monitoring your home.

vivint logo illustration

Price

Vivint is at the higher end of the price spectrum, particularly when it comes to the initial equipment costs, which can range between $700 to $1800. However, it does allow you to add those costs to your monthly bill instead.

Vivint offers five-year contracts that range from $30 to $50 per month, plus additional equipment costs. If you cancel the contract early, you have to buy out the duration of the contract.

Customer service

Vivint has a bad reputation for having a very aggressive sales team that misrepresents its offerings to customers. Thanks to a massive outcry and several court cases, Vivint has taken the negative feedback to heart and improved its customer service.

Not only is its pricing structure more transparent, but its sales team is also much less pushy. You’ll find regular customer support a pleasure.

Features and equipment

Vivint offers a wireless security system with plenty of bells and whistles. The equipment is all very sleek and contemporary-looking, which blends in well in a modern home but may look out of place if your home is more traditional.

When it comes to features, Vivint has several options. It has a customizable remote that is designed to fit on your key ring, which contains arm, disarm, and emergency functions. You can also program it to do other things, such as lock or unlock a door or flip a switch.

If you’re looking for a home security system with cameras, Vivint has you covered with indoor, outdoor, and even doorbell cameras, which can be viewed on the smartphone app.

Unfortunately, due to the complexity of the system, Vivint does require that a professional do the installation, with no DIY option available.

Despite being high-tech, the home security system is intuitive and easy to use thanks to a dedicated touchscreen control panel with large icons and text. The system also accepts voice recognition, so you can set up voice commands to automate mundane tasks like locking your doors and arming the alarm.

Xfinity Home

Xfinity is Comcast’s foray into the world of home security, and its focus is on smart home automation and professional monitoring. Xfinity offers plenty of features and upgrades so that you can customize your perfect home security system.

comcast xfinity panel

The system comes with a companion app to control everything without the need for complex control panels.

Price

Xfinity offers a single plan for $29 that locks you into a two-year contract. An early termination fee applies if you terminate before the end of the contract. It does offer a 30-day money back guarantee if you change your mind.

The plan comes with monitoring and a base equipment package that contains three sensors, a touchscreen controller, and a wireless keypad. If you want additional equipment such as cameras, smoke detectors, or other sensors, you have to pay for them separately.

Customer service

Comcast is notorious for poor-quality customer service and was even rated the worst company in the United States in 2014 and 2017 by Consumer Reports. This has to do with poor service quality and rude support staff, as well as people finding it very difficult to cancel their contracts.

However, if you’re willing to brave Comcast’s customer services, there are many ways to contact Xfinity, including phone, email, and live chat. If you prefer to avoid customer service, you can take a look at the substantial amount of documentation on its customer support portal.

Features and equipment

Xfinity comes with all of the standard equipment you’d expect from a home security system. The equipment includes motion sensors, a controller, and keypad, as well as optional extras, including smoke detectors, cameras, and a variety of door and window sensors.

What makes Xfinity appealing is the integration it has with other smart home applications. So far, integration partners include Nest, Philips, August Smart Lock, and the Chamberlain myQ garage door opener.

Choosing a Home Security System in Boston

These reviews should give you a good reference point for the types of home security systems and alarm monitoring companies you’ll find in the Boston area.

Do your research, read your contracts, and enjoy the added protection your new home security system gives you.

looking for home security

[2025] 5 Best PTZ Security Cameras for Using Outdoors and Indoors

Last Updated on January 21, 2025 by Alarm New England

Looking to upgrade your home security system from stationary fixed cameras to security cameras that offer you more coverage and more control? PTZ cameras may be the solution for you.

PTZ cameras have the capability to pan, tilt, and zoom (thus the name PTZ). They have special mechanical parts that allow the security camera to move and focus on a specific spot, and their entire motion can be manually controlled through software or a controller device.

PTZ security cameras can be controlled remotely by apps or other controllers. They also have preset viewing tours to move and focus on different objects in their field of vision.

People love PTZ cameras due to their wide area of coverage that greatly surpasses that of other camera types. In smaller areas, their pan feature can give 360 degrees of coverage; you only need to swivel the camera left or right or tilt up and down to monitor any area you want.

PTZ cameras have many other benefits, including:

  • PTZ cameras can be programmed to follow a specific pattern on a schedule
  • PTZ cameras are used to cover areas that are impossible to cover with fixed cameras.
  • These cameras can be connected with other devices, such as motion detectors.
  • PTZ cameras work well even when the lighting is low as they typically have strong night vision capabilities.

Top 5 PTZ Security Cameras

If you are planning to upgrade your indoor and outdoor surveillance system, these are five high-performance PTZ security cameras to consider. They have the ability to keep an eye on every nook and cranny of your house, inside and out.

Amcrest PTZ Poe Camera, Waterproof

The Amcrest PTZ is a home security IP camera, which means it can be connected to the internet and work as a smart security camera, keeping an eye on things even when you are not at home. Its mobile app (available on iOS and Android devices) lets you play back the recordings or watch your home and family members in real time.

amcrest-ptz-security-camera-waterproof

Amcrest’s waterproof housing is another great feature, making the camera suitable for outdoor use. Whether it rains or shines, the camera is protected. Its heavy-duty metal housing makes it resilient even in severe environmental conditions.

The developers of this camera didn’t just introduce the weatherproof feature as a gimmick; they tested it against hurricane-level winds and rain, too. Its airtight housing protects against dust and moisture that can potentially seep in behind the lens and fry the internal processor. So it doesn’t matter whether you are living in the deserts of Arabia or face the hurricanes of Florida—this PTZ security camera will weather the storm and always keep your property protected.

This model features a secure SSL/HTTPS connection that ensures your footage is stored safely from unauthorized access, which is a valuable feature, as unsecured data can open your system up to hackers or malware. The SSL/HTTPS connection also receives regular firmware updates to give extraordinary security to you, your loved ones, and your property.

The Amcrest PTZ is powered by PoE+ power, giving you security surveillance around your home 24/7. Having backup rechargeable batteries would be more ideal, but those aren’t easy to find.

With this PTZ camera, you get crisp and rich 1080p images with sharp color contrast. In addition, it offers resolution at 30 frames per second. This video quality makes it one of the best PTZ security cameras on the market.

What we like:

  • Stunning 1080p HD image quality
  • App available on both Android and iOS
  • Motion detection system sends an alert directly to your smartphone
  • Waterproof housing performs well in severe environmental conditions

What we don’t like:

  • No rechargeable battery option
  • Warranty restricted to US customers

Reolink’s PTZ indoor camera is perfect for people who don’t want to risk missing a second of the action. It is solidly built and affordable, and people from all walks of life trust this camera’s performance when it comes to home security.

reolink-security-camera-pan-tilt

All you need is an available wall socket to deploy this camera anywhere in your home. It gives a crisp picture with a resolution of 2560p by 1440p, comparable in image quality to DSLR cameras. The camera captures super HD videos that work well in the night vision mode too, though its range extends to only 40 feet out.

Getting this camera up and running without a professional technician is rather simple. If you have a bit of knowledge about PTZ security cameras and have connected one of them to your Wi-Fi before, you can easily install it in minutes—no messy cabling is involved. The camera has its own dual Wi-Fi antennas that ensure no signal loss and interference.

Unlike most other PTZ security cameras that secure the footage to a micro SD card, which can be removed or deleted, this Reolink camera adds all the images and videos to the FTP server.

Another great feature we love in this Reolink product is its motion sensitivity. It sends you alert emails and push notifications at once if any motion is detected. This feature is available in other PTZ cameras too, but the Reolink camera is unique in its motion detection sensitivity options that allow you to detect certain types of motion, which is especially useful if you have pets at home. This reduces false alarms and gives you peace of mind.

If you are using more than one PTZ security camera, a Reolink NVR would be a wise investment as it saves all the recordings locally. Most offices and corporations count on the NVR to make their multiple cameras work efficiently round-the-clock. Though, keep in mind, the Reolink POE NVR is only compatible with the Reolink PTZ security cameras. If you have security cameras from other companies, they may not work with the Reolink NVR as intended.

What we like:

  • Wide 355-degree rotating angle
  • Remote access anywhere
  • Ultra HD image quality
  • Easy to set up

What we don’t like:

  • NVR required for 24/7 recording
  • SD card isn’t included

SUNBA 20x Optical Zoom PTZ Security Camera

The SUNBA 20x Optical Zoom PTZ Security Camera has a large variety of features. We have tested many PTZ cameras, including top-rated expensive ones as well as economical ones; this model is somewhere in the middle. The SUNBA PTZ camera gives great performance at a reasonable cost.

sunba-outdoor-security-camera-ptz

The SUNBA’s dome-shaped, compact design might look small, but it has a diverse feature set. For example, it has a 20x optical zoom—something you don’t find in the most expensive PTZ security cameras.

But this extraordinary zoom isn’t only for the daylight; it works well at night too. The developers of SUNBA have introduced a powerful infrared LED that gives a night vision up to 800 feet, compared to most other PTZ cameras that only have a range of around 40 to 50 feet.

The only downside to the SUNBA is its lower resolution relative to other models in the market. If you’re looking for ultra HD quality, this isn’t the camera for you. That said, its 1080p Sony CMOS provides crystal clear details on images, even with the 20x optical zoom.

If you haven’t used a PTZ security camera before, no problem. The SUNBA is beginner-friendly and so easy to install. Its user manual will tell you everything you need to know about installing it.

The SUNBA PTZ camera has a memory card slot that you can store up to 64 GB of footage in; however, this memory card can only be accessed by removing the lens, which is inconvenient.

What we like:

  • Superior night vision capacity
  • Rotates 360 degrees horizontally and 90 degrees vertically
  • Waterproof and made from commercial-grade aluminum
  • Works with a real free desktop VMS client

What we don’t like:

  • Hard to access the memory card slot
  • No two-way audio option

JideTech PTZ Outdoor Security Camera

JideTech PTZ camera gives you total control over your premises’ surveillance. It has a motion detection system that alerts you immediately. With this feature, you can create specific motion detecting zones and adjust their sensitivity to reduce false alerts.

jidetech-security-dome-camera-ptz

It is one of the smallest PTZ cameras (4.3 by 4.3 by 3.9 inches) in the market with a 1080p standard resolution. The video works at 18 frames per second and has a 4x motorized zoom lens. The company says the camera gives an excellent image even in the pitch black, but we aren’t impressed with its night vision quality.

Despite this, we still think it’s worth it to recommend JideTech for the responsiveness of their customer service team. Initially we were confused about trying to get their multiple apps to be compatible and set up alerts, but after reaching out to their team, the whole process went smoothly.

Within a few minutes, the JideTech customer support team not only resolved this issue but also helped us receive alerts on the laptop too, so that multiple users can keep an eye on a home and stay in touch with their loved ones.

You shouldn’t choose a product solely because the company behind it has good customer service, but it’s comforting to know that your issues will be taken care of by a reliable team.

What we like:

  • Multiple ways to watch remotely
  • Waterproof aluminum housing
  • Works well with security monitor softwares, like VLC and iSpy
  • 4x motorized zoom lens
  • Great customer service

What we don’t like:

  • Night vision capability isn’t good
  • 4x zoom becomes foggy at night

Amcrest ProHD IP2M-941B PTZ Security Camera

This surveillance camera from Amcrest is notable for its extra wide viewing angle, which allows you to see every angle of your property. The camera’s 4x zoom lens also adds extra layers of security, but not at the cost of image quality. Whether it is day or night, the 4x zoom capability doesn’t compromise any detail in the image.

amcrest-ptz-security-camera-ultrahd

In addition, the night vision of Amcrest’s ProHD IP2M-941B is exceptional and functions up to 98 feet with built-in IR LEDs. You won’t have any problem monitoring your property for potential intruders even in pitch darkness.

Amcrest promises top-notch video quality, but the top-notch video quality is only available when this camera is used in the highest settings. However, using this camera at the highest settings may cause stability and reliability problems. Even if you have the best Wi-Fi network, the video won’t work well.

Furthermore, the highest settings eat up a ton of data, making 24/7 surveillance less appealing. And if you lower the settings, the video quality drops off quickly.

That said, the lens quality in this model is great. If the target is within the zoom limit, the IP2M-941B lens makes sure all the images are crisp. You will get proper image quality even during rough conditions like rain or fog.

This camera is EU and FCC certified, which means it fulfills EU safety and environmental protection requirements and is approved by the Federal Communications Commission in the United States.

What we like:

  • Impressive IR LED night vision
  • Supports Safari, Chrome, and Firefox on Amcrest Cloud
  • Despite low price, image quality is still decent
  • Records all motion for 30 days on Blue Iris security software

What we don’t like:

  • No audio capabilities
  • You can face IP conflict issues on your home Wi-Fi network

PTZ Security Camera Buying Guide

This buying guide section will help you decide on the best PTZ security camera for your needs.

Think About Your Needs

Don’t buy expensive cameras with extra features if you are trying to cover a small area around your home. Big cameras with 360 degrees of coverage are used in large stores or warehouses.

Usually, only large corporations invest in such sophisticated security measures. For home security, a small camera with a 4x optical zoom will likely be enough to fulfill your requirements.

Great Night Vision

Night vision capability is a must-have, and this feature varies significantly from camera to camera. Budget cameras often cut corners on night vision capability. Effective night vision can pick up intruders around your home even at night with its infrared LED night vision capability.

Make sure the camera you are buying comes with the best nighttime surveillance so that your home is protected when it’s dark.

1080p Resolution

The 1080p resolution has become the industry standard for camera resolution. Don’t buy any product that offers less than 1080p resolution, even if it has many other good applications.

For PTZ cameras with 1440p or 4K resolution (which has marginal benefit over 1080p resolution), you need to spend significantly more money and—unless you are tech-savvy—hire a professional technician to install and set up those cameras.

Good Customer Service

If the camera manufacturer doesn’t provide good customer service, you will experience significantly more frustration in the future. Camera systems are great when they work fine, but as with any electronic device, you will have times when you need to troubleshoot problems with your camera.

Things like the Wi-Fi connection, installation process, changing camera settings, and compatibility all have potential for problems. If you are installing a PTZ camera on your own, or if you have problems with it, a good customer support service can resolve your problem quickly and eliminate any frustration.

FAQs About PTZ Security Cameras

Let’s address some of the most frequently asked questions about PTZ security cameras.

How do you connect the PTZ camera to the security system?

How you connect a PTZ camera to your security system depends on the model you are buying and your security system. Usually, you need a system that includes CCTV or DVR. Companies also give clear guidelines in their model’s instruction manual about how to connect the camera to a security system.

Are all cameras vandal-proof?

Though all companies claim their PTZ cameras are vandal-proof, this may not necessarily be the case. Manufacturers tend to focus on weatherproofing with sturdy materials over tamper-resistance. They can’t prevent a burglar from smashing the camera lens with a blunt instrument, for example.

The best way to protect your cameras is to place them high off the ground. Install your cameras at least 10 feet above ground level to minimize the risk of them being tampered with.

Does the zoom quality matter?

Zoom quality is not the most essential feature when it comes to PTZ cameras installed in residential settings because you’re unlikely to ever really make use of it. However, if you need your camera to pick up details further away, a higher zoom quality could make a difference.

What is the difference between optical zoom and standard zoom?

Optical zoom preserves the image quality and records the video clearly. On the other hand, standard zoom diminishes the video quality because it simply enlarges the existing image, ruining its quality. Always buy PTZ security cameras that have optical zoom.

Conclusion

With a PTZ security camera, it is now easier to monitor many areas of your home or business. If you are planning to buy the camera for outdoor security, focus first on how weatherproof the camera is.

For outdoor units, the weather is a bigger threat than professional burglars tampering with the camera. If the camera isn’t weatherproof, it won’t last long, and you’ll be back to square one looking for a PTZ camera to protect your home in 2024.

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