Outdoor security cameras are different from other security cameras on the basis of durability and protection. Depending on their location Outdoor security cameras may need to be weatherproof and resistant to vandalism. Having both of these features can drive up the cost so it is important to know how to look for a good deal.

Weatherproof Outdoor Security Cameras

A weatherproof camera comes in various styles such as bullet or dome cameras. They can range from $100 to $1000 depending on the functionality. If you are buying an outdoor security camera with infra-red, its price will depend on the number of LEDs the camera has. All weatherproof security cameras are also waterproof. Dome cameras are usually a great option for protection against vandalism as well as weather.

Dome Outdoor Security Cameras

Dome cameras protect against weather and vandalism and also have a stealth feature. Since a tinted glass covers the camera, you can’t tell where the camera is pointing. Furthermore the dome covers the camera and ensures safety. Most of the dome are water proof and weather resistant.

Dome cameras are difficult to be detached or stolen since they are usually fixed on the roof. The dome also acts as protection from any attempts to break the camera lens, unless someone decided to shoot it with a gun. Some Dome cameras also come with a bullet-proof feature. A decent stand-alone dome camera can cost you about $250. One with features such as bullet-proofing may cost much higher. These cameras are also usually available with infra-red.

Logitech Alert 750e Outdoor Master Security System with Night Vision

Low Cost Ways to Protect against Vandalism

There are other ways of protecting a camera from vandalism other than buying expensive outdoor security cameras. One such way is to place the security camera inside ideally behind glass. If you have a good place where a camera can get a good view, you could also consider getting a cheaper security camera which is not weather or water-proof.

Hide the Camera

The best way is to hide the camera from potential threats of vandalism. It comes with a disadvantage however. Apart from surveillance, outdoor security cameras can deter up to 50% of the crime since a criminal would consider twice before entering a site with security cameras. If you want to decide on whether to hide the camera, you should decide think about the purpose that you are installing the camera for. Scaring away criminals or getting them on tape red-handed? If you want crime caught on tape, you could also consider using micro cams or hidden spy cams in combination with outdoor security cameras. These spy cameras can be hidden almost anywhere such as in a clock or photo.

Security Systems vs. Stand-Alone Outdoor Security Cameras

When buying outdoor security cameras, you will need to decide whether to get a single camera or get a sophisticated surveillance system. A surveillance system would include multiple cameras, monitors and software. A typical surveillance system with 2 cameras can cost up to $1200 although you can get a cheaper system sometime for as little as $500. Some surveillance systems can be difficult to set up so you might need to pay for extra help with the installation.

Ultimately the best outdoor security cameras for you will depend on your intended use. There are however some tips like locating the camera inside that will help you save money regardless of the additional features that you choose for your outdoor security cameras.

Related posts:

1. Residential Security Cameras – Three Great Places to hide your Camera

This entry was posted on Thursday, March 10th, 2011 at 12:01 am and is filed under security cameras cctv. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Responses are currently closed, but you can trackback from your own site.