Technology has come a long way since 1942, when the closed-circuit television (CCTV) was invented in Germany by Walter Bruch, per Surveillance Video. It was previously used as a way to observe rocket launches from inside a bunker but wasn't able to keep recordings. However, with the appropriate technological advancements, CCTVs are now a part of our homes as silent, tireless witnesses and guardians.
However, with numerous choices since the CCTV's commercialization in 1949, thanks to US contractor Vericon, it is difficult to find the right one for your preference.
Here are some of the best CCTVs you can buy in the market:
Arlo Pro 3 - $499.99
Arlo home security cameras have admittedly the security camera with the best security video and storage in the market. This feature is apparent with the Arlo Pro 3 security camera with its 4K ultra-high-definition, high-quality image processor, 12x digital zoom, and wireless, per US News and Security.org. You can even store videos on a USB drive locally or through Arlo's cloud server for maximum convenience.
Calling 911, night vision, and a spotlight are also nifty options that come with the camera, with the first being available on the companion app.
However, the ability to continuously record footage 24/7 costs extra, and while it is wireless, it comes with a plug that you need to find an outlet for to charge it up, according to Arlo's Pro 3 page.
Ring Stick Up Cam Battery - $99.99
The most budget-friendly home security system on this list, the Ring Stick Up Cam Battery is a versatile home security camera that you can place indoors and outdoors thanks to its flexible mounting system.
It can also come with an optional solar panel that charges the camera's batteries and two power sources in case one of them fails.
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However, you might need multiple cameras to get good coverage in a room due to its field of view being the narrowest in the list, and having no option for continuous recording. It also lacks advanced security features like zooming and facial recognition.
Blink Indoor and Blink Outdoor Security Cameras - $79.99 - $99.99
The most advanced security cameras Blink has to offer, the indoor and outdoor security cameras of Blink have motion alerts, infrared night vision, live view, two-way audio, customizable motion zones, and even a temperature sensor.
While the Arlo Pro 3 and the Ring Stick Up Cam Battery are the most feature-heavy and budget-friendly security cameras on the list respectively, Blink's security cameras are the easiest to use thanks to their user-friendly do-it-yourself installation and long battery life.
However, you'll have to buy each for your needs as one is specifically designed for indoors while the other is for outdoors. It also doesn't offer innovative features and has limited video storage options.
Wyze Cam v3 - $35.98
Another budget-friendly security camera, the Wyze Cam v3 comes with outdoor capabilities, a built-in siren, improved night vision, and higher frame rate for a smoother video feed, per Safewise.
For a budget-friendly camera, the Wyze Cam v3's nightvision is noteworthy thanks to its starlight sensor having two types of infrared LEDs to produce color video even at nighttime.
It also comes with free cloud storage, which would eventually contain small 12-second clips from the camera feed for up to 14 days. Getting a Wyze Cam Plus cloud storage plan will let you save full-length video, saving you from getting a microSD card to store camera footage.
However, the Wyze Cam v3 has a wired power cord and needs a special power source for outdoor operation, which can eb a deal-breaker for some.
