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EYE SPY continued

The choice is totally dependent on what works best for the individual, as both storage models have pros and cons. What about resolution? At a bare minimum, you’ll want the resolution of your cameras to be FHD 1080p. However, if you want to capture details of number plates, then 2K and above is par for the course. Clear – and colour – night vision should also be on your wishlist. So, which one is for me? Do you own the property or are you renting? It’s an important question to ask, because there’s little point in hardwiring a system or scaling a ladder to pop a camera up on a two-storey brick home if you’re a temporary resident. Homeowners might want to consider a more permanent installation. Video doorbells offer a versatile security solution that combines protection with convenience, at a price that won’t dent the bank balance. But only the entrance is covered. A multipack of cameras can cover many different areas and entryways of a home. If you don’t like the idea of an ongoing subscription cost, then a camera system with local storage is likely to be more favourable. And if the thought of having to retrieve the battery when it runs low to recharge it feels like a hassle you could do without, then hardwiring a camera system is where you want to be. The beauty of home security is that there's literally an ideal fit for any situation that will accommodate any budget.

TOP TIP Position wireless security cameras

within easy reach on a ladder for when it’s time to recharge the battery.

If this is outside your comfort zone, the safest bet is to bring in a professional to mount it for you. Most of the cameras we’ve reviewed over the years come complete with anchoring solutions in the box for both timber and masonry walls. We’ve yet to come across one we haven’t been able to install. Local or cloud storage? Where you want the footage from your cameras stored will likely influence your buying decision.

Some camera units have a hub that connects into the network either via Wi-Fi or directly with an ethernet cable. Footage is stored locally within the hub and can be accessed via a smartphone. Recording can also be made to a MicroSD card, where supported. Cloud storage will likely require an ongoing monthly subscription to capture and store footage, as well as unlock advanced camera features not available at a base level, such as parcel or animal detection and customisable smart activity zones.

OUR SECURITY CAMERA PICKS Swann AllSecure 4K Wireless Security System with 64GB MicroSD storage (4-pack)

Swann Xtreem4K Wireless Security Camera with 32GB MicroSD & Cloud Storage Fully wireless and easy to install, with a generous battery life of up to 120 days, the Xtreem4K has a 120° viewing angle for ultra-wide coverage in crystal clear 4K resolution, along with colour night vision and a dual spotlight. Recording and alerts to your phone are triggered when heat and motion is detected, and the spotlights and siren can be activated automatically or manually. Video footage can be stored free and locally on a 32GB MicroSD card (included), or saved in the cloud, and there’s two-way talk for greeting guests and telling intruders to scram. The Swann Xtreem4K has all you need for vigilant home monitoring, indoors and out.

TP-Link Tapo Smart Floodlight Camera 2K (Wired) Perfect for outdoor use, this fully weatherproofed 2K camera is equipped with a high-intensity 2800-lumen floodlight that can be adjusted to any desired angle. When movement is detected, the floodlight will light up the yard, garage, or any area within the camera’s 270° detection zone – and dazzle any intruders. Smart AI recognition tags movement of people, pets and vehicles, while 2K QHD colour night vision captures the fine details after dark. Note: This is a wired camera for continuous power, so some DIY prowess may be required for installation.

The latest from home security trailblazer Swann is the complete package, offering four 4K cameras, fully wireless installation with battery life up to 90 days on a full charge, and free recording to a 64GB MicroSD card (included). The cameras can be installed indoors, and outside with full weather protection. Recordings are triggered by heat and motion detection, with two-way talk and a siren to deter would-be intruders, and colour night vision for added clarity after dark. If you’re looking for wireless convenience, sharp 4K resolution and local storage for recording, the Swann AllSecure has got you covered.

50 MARCH 2024

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