Small businesses face unique problems when it comes to security. Oftentimes, they don’t have expensive budgets to cover their business in security equipment, and yet, they still often have valuable tools/products contained in their facilities. As theft reaches new levels, many small business owners are now looking for measures to help them protect their businesses. Security cameras for small businesses can be the very thing you need. The proper security camera system is not only a deterrent to theft and damage, but also an important tool for accountability and legal protection. Here are some of the best options on the market.

What Are Security Cameras?

Security cameras are video recording devices that can be placed or mounted around a building to record video feeds of a place (in this case a business). Security cameras range in features and come in varying levels of effectiveness. Some of the different variations you will find include:

• Recording in black and white
• Recording in color
• Capturing sound/no sound
• Real-time monitoring
• Access control integration
• Motion detection
• And more

Why Small Businesses Should Use Security Cameras

Preventing Criminal Activities

Security cameras can be an effective deterrent to crimes like burglary, vandalism, and other criminal activity. Criminals will think twice before engaging in these activities. This component of surveillance is especially important for small enterprises, which frequently operate on low resources and cannot afford considerable losses due to illicit activity.

Evidence and Legal Protection

High-quality video footage is invaluable in criminal investigations. It gives real evidence that can be utilized in court proceedings to identify culprits and back up insurance claims. This proof is necessary for small businesses because it can greatly speed up the settlement of legal and insurance-related issues while reducing the impact on business operations.

Monitoring and Management

Modern security cameras are useful not only for crime prevention but also as management tools. They let business owners monitor everyday operations, ensuring that employees follow rules and don’t commit theft. Security cameras also help enforce safety rules as well.

Peace of Mind

Business owners also get peace of mind when using security cameras. With remote monitoring features, they can keep an eye on their business from anywhere, ensuring everything runs smoothly in their absence.

Insurance Benefits

Having video evidence when making insurance claims can make the process go much faster. Some insurance companies may also give you lower premiums for installing security cameras. This is one of the most important reasons for improving security conditions.

Types of Security Cameras: Analog Vs. IP Cameras

There are two main types of security cameras that dominate the market, analog, and IP cameras. However, many of the industry are switching to IP cameras as they have more benefits and cost less for equipment. Each type has its unique features, benefits, and potential drawbacks.

Analog Cameras

Analog cameras are traditional surveillance systems that send analog video signals to a DVR (Digital Video Recorder) via coaxial lines. These cameras have been the standard in surveillance for many years, and they are known for their simplicity and dependability. Most analog cameras need to have a monitor at the location to view the live feed. You do not get remote viewing with analog cameras.

Pros:

Cost-Effectiveness: Analog cameras are typically less expensive than IP cameras, making them an attractive option for small enterprises with restricted resources. However, this is changing with some solutions.

Simplicity: Because these systems have been around forever, they are fairly straightforward and can be set up with relative ease. They don’t require a lot of technical know-how.

Compatibility: It is possible to integrate analog cameras into existing analog systems without completely overhauling them.

Cons:

Lower Image Quality: Compared to IP cameras, analog cameras typically have a lower resolution, which results in less detailed images.

Limited Features: They often lack advanced features that IP cameras have, such as high-definition video recording, remote monitoring, and movement tracking.

More Cabling: For analog systems, especially larger setups, more cabling is required than IP cameras.

IP Cameras

IP Cameras can transmit video data through an ethernet cable or Wi-Fi signals, which allows you to place them in areas where cords are not ideal. This approach allows for higher-resolution video, better-quality images, and more advanced features. Not only that, but you are able to view your cameras remotely without being physically on site.

Pros:

Higher Image Quality: IP cameras provide superior image resolution and clarity, making them ideal for situations requiring great detail. More importantly, it’s easier to store the higher clarity video and transfer that data through these systems.

Advanced Features: Many of them come with features like remote zoom and focus, motion detection, and alerts.

Easier Installation: IP cameras can transmit data over Wi-Fi or Ethernet, reducing the need for extensive cabling. More importantly, you can place these devices without worrying about not being able to run wires to them other than a power cord.

Cons:

Cost: IP cameras are generally more expensive than analog cameras, which might be a significant factor for small businesses.

Network Requirements: Upgrading the network infrastructure may be necessary for these cameras.

Key Features to Look for in Security Cameras

Every business is different, however, there are some baseline features that most companies should have out of their security system. We are going to break these features into “Necessary” and “Nice to have.”

Feature Category	Feature	Description	Necessary/Nice to Have
Resolution and Image Quality	High-resolution (1080p or higher)	Ensures clear, detailed images for identification purposes.	Necessary
Night Vision	Infrared (IR) capability	Allows cameras to capture clear footage in low-light or dark conditions.	Necessary
Motion Detection	Adjustable sensitivity and zones	Detects movement, triggering alerts or recording; helps reduce false alarms.	Nice to Have
Wide Field of View	Wide-angle lens (over 100 degrees)	Determines the area a camera can cover; wider angles monitor larger areas.	Necessary
Storage Options	Local (SD cards, DVRs) and cloud storage	Essential for recording and storing footage; consider capacity needs.	Necessary
Reliability and Durability	Robust build, weather-resistant for outdoors	Ensures consistent performance and longevity, especially in outdoor settings.	Necessary
Remote Access and Mobile App	Smartphone/tablet monitoring	View live footage and receive alerts remotely; enhances real-time monitoring.	Nice to Have
Two-Way Audio	Communication capability	Allows interaction through the camera; useful for instructions or warnings.	Nice to Have
Pan/Tilt/Zoom (PTZ)	Remote control of camera movement	Offers flexibility in monitoring specific areas; enhances coverage.	Nice to Have
Advanced Motion Detection	Person detection, line crossing	Provides more accurate alerts and reduces false alarms.	Nice to Have
Integration with Other Systems	Compatibility with alarms, sensors	Creates a comprehensive security system when linked with other devices.	Nice to Have
Wi-Fi Capability	Wireless connectivity	Eases installation and placement, especially for indoor cameras.	Nice to Have
Artificial Intelligence (AI)	Facial recognition, unusual activity detection	Enhances monitoring with advanced detection and analysis capabilities.	Nice to Have

4 Best Security Cameras

Through doing our own research, some of the highest-rated and best security cameras that small business owners can invest in include:

• Lorex N3
• Arlo Pro 3
• Ring Indoor Business Starter Kit
• Swann 12-Camera Security System

Lorex N3

The Lorex N3 is a powerful dome camera that requires wiring to run. This Lorex N3 camera offers high-resolution video, comprehensive security capabilities, and long-lasting construction, making it a perfect choice for small businesses looking for a blend of quality, usefulness, and cost-effectiveness. With its weatherproof design and wide field of view, it’s ideal for both indoor and outdoor surveillance in various business settings.

Key features:

• 4K Resolution at 30 frames per second
• 150ft Night Vision
• 107° Field of View
• IP67 Weatherproof, which makes it suitable for indoor and outdoor usage.
• Smart Motion Detection
• Audio Recording
• Color Night Vision™ (CNV) Technology: Produces full-color video in low-light conditions with external lighting.
• High Dynamic Range (HDR) video
• High-Efficiency Video Coding (HEVC), compress video files to save space on storage
• Full Metal Exterior for protection
• One cable needed for power and internet connection

Price: Starts $149 for one unit

Arlo Pro 4

Another top player in the space, the Arlo Pro 3 is one of the best options out there for businesses, especially those looking to monitor the outdoors. Since it is wire-free and weather-resistant, you can easily set it up in various locations without worrying about environmental damage. A built-in spotlight and magnetic charging make it a convenient and secure choice for businesses looking for performance and convenience. The Arlo Pro bills itself as a DIY approach to using its camera system as it can be used for commercial purposes or residential.

Key features:

• 2K HDR Video for recording
• Color Night Vision
• 160° Viewing Angle
• Integrated Spotlight that can be activated on movement
• 100% Wire-Free installation and recording
• Weather-Resistant.
• Magnetic Charge cable that snaps into place
• Magnetic Mount that provides the flexibility to place your cameras anywhere.

Price: $249 for a 2-camera kit

Ring Indoor Business Starter Kit

Ring is one of the most prominent camera systems in both residential space and commercial areas. This is because they sell whole systems at a relatively inexpensive price. The Ring Indoor Business Starter Kit is an ideal alternative for organizations searching for a versatile and comprehensive security solution that includes high-quality video surveillance and an alarm system. This is a whole system instead of just one camera, however, for the money you get a ton of features to cover your business.

Key features:

• Comprehensive Kit that includes 3 indoor cams and an 8-piece alarm system to go with it
• 1080 Video
• Color Night Vision
• 160° Viewing Angle
• Integrated Spotlight
• A wired connection to power the device
• Customizable motion detection
• Two-way audio

Price: $429 for the entire bundle

Swann 12-Camera Security System

Looking for a full setup that is ready to go for a warehouse or larger building? The Swann 12 camera system may be the perfect setup. With up to 16 channels, this is a fully functional video camera system that can service all of your needs. You can run the system with either Windows or Mac OS, The Swann system is likely a solid choice for businesses looking for a comprehensive, high-quality surveillance solution that offers 1080p footage, a DVR, and an entire setup for relatively cheap.

Key features:

• 1080p video quality
• Night vision up to 100ft with both black/white options as well as color
• 90-degree viewing angle
• IP 66 for the cameras
• Motion detection
• Has an operating temperature from -22F-131F
• A DVR to run all of your channels
• Remote monitoring with apps on IOS/Android

Price:  $449

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