Browsing the market for new security systems can seem overwhelming at first, especially for first-time shoppers. Luckily, user needs can help to significantly narrow down options. For instance, a solar camera has an edge over its conventional counterpart in terms of cost effectiveness.
Solar-powered CCTV security cameras harness the power of the sun, giving home- as well as business owners a sustainable solution for their security needs without significant increases in their utility bills. On the other hand, cameras utilising advanced features such as infrared (IR) technology or high-resolution imaging have more demanding power requirements; typically beyond what a top-mounted solar panel can provide.
So which CCTV brand is best for which user? In this post, we go over three of the best CCTV cameras Australia has available — sorted by our picks for best solar, best value, and best performance.
Top Picks for Security Solutions by Category
There are a few important considerations any homeowner or business should factor in when shopping for a security system. While budgets are often the most pressing issue, users should also take stock of other key aspects of their premises, such as prevalent weather conditions. In windy regions prone to sandstorms, for example, users should invest in 4k CCTV camera systems to ensure clarity in their security footage.
Best Solar: Hikvision 4MP Solar-Powered Security Camera
This is a solid bet for security systems using no-nonsense solar-powered CCTV security cameras. Its 4 megapixel image quality is passable in urban or suburban environments, compressing at a practical H.265 codec out of the box. Because these cameras are solar-powered, they have the added versatility of easy remote installation — functioning well even in areas with limited grid access.
Best Value: Dahua 4MP IR WizSense 4G Network Camera
When balancing price and available features, this 4 megapixel camera is very hard to beat. Whether it’s alarm linkage, tripwire system support, its built-in 4G module, or its infrared sensor sensitive to body temperature, users simply can’t do better than Dahua’s IR WizSense 4G Network Camera at its price range.
Best Performance: Swann Master Series 4K Bullet Camera
Melbourne’s own Swann is known for making quality security solutions, and this one is no exception. This weatherproof 4k CCTV camera includes a built-in microphone and spotlight, and can capture color night vision footage distances up to 32 feet. Its superior recording resolution allows for intelligent video analysis features like licence plate recognition (LPR), AI facial recognition, loitering detection, and programmable zone intrusion alerts.
Finding The Right Brand and Camera
What makes the right camera varies by home- and business owner, as well as their personal circumstances and premises. The most important considerations to make include:
- Personal budget: how many cameras are needed depends mainly on how large the premises are.
- Connectivity: grid and network connectivity are also important to consider when setting up and optimising a security system.
- Features: this will be determined by the premises’ security needs. A large, sprawling business complex will require more feature-rich camera systems than a small home in the suburbs.
Once budget, connectivity, and desired features have been factored in, selection is only a matter of brand preference. Luckily, all three of the brands listed above have CCTV cameras to fit any combination of requirements for homeowners and businesses.
