What to Know About Business Security Cameras
Whether your business is small, mid-sized or enterprise-level, business security cameras are perfect to monitor your business’ security. You’ll be able to keep an eye on your inventory and keep employees safe during work. The best business security cameras are equipped with features that make monitoring, recording and storing footage easy. We’ve narrowed down the best cameras, features and factors to consider as you shop for security cameras that give you the protection and peace of mind you need for your business.
Top Business Security Camera Features to Shop For
Voice assistant compatibility: The best business security cameras are compatible with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant to give you hands-free control of your cameras. You’ll be able to ask Alexa to show you what’s happening around your business using your Amazon Alexa device with a simple command.
Cloud storage: Most camera systems require a video recorder to locally store footage. However, keeping videos on hand locally can increase the risk of footage being lost or fallen into the wrong hands. Cloud storage securely stores your clips and gives you access using your desktop or mobile device without the risks of handling it locally.
Full-color night vision: While infrared LED night vision may show you crisp footage in black and white, full-color night vision gives you a better view of activity as if you were there — even in darkness. Be sure to look for full-color night vision with high video quality and a high night vision range.
Continuous video recording (CVR): You’ll never want to miss a moment of what’s happening at your place of business. Some camera systems only record motion-triggered events. Continuous video recording (CVR) captures video 24/7 for you to playback later.
The Best Business Security Cameras
- Best Camera for 4K Outdoor Surveillance
Our take
This Power over Ethernet (PoE) outdoor camera is weatherproof and covers over 164 feet of night vision. It works with Amazon Alexa for hands-free voice control and one-way audio. Backup cloud storage is available with an Amcrest subscription. You’ll be able to use the Amcrest mobile app for anytime video monitoring for up to 16 cameras and motion-triggered alerts. It has a built-in microphone and 112-degree viewing angle.
Stand-out features include
- Cloud storage available
- Works with Amazon Alexa
- Mobile video surveillance and alerts
Our take
The Arlo Pro 3 is our top security camera pick. It doubles as an indoor and outdoor camera to help keep your home safe. You’ll need to self-install the camera, but it’s easy to install multiple without interrupting your home’s electrical wiring. The Arlo Pro 3 is equipped with color night vision and 2K resolution for crystal clear footage. It works with popular smart home devices, including Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant and more. One notable feature is the camera’s built-in spotlight that can be controlled using your smartphone or automatically when motion is detected.
Stand-out features include
- Built-in spotlight that can be motion-activated or controlled using your smartphone
- Works with Amazon Alexa, Apple Homekit and Google Assistant
- 2K video resolution for crystal clear viewing and videos
Our take
The Blink XT2 Camera provides a 110-degree field of view and is designed to work well in outdoor environments. You’ll receive notifications when activity is detected, and you’ll also get free cloud storage for your footage.
Stand-out features include
- Works with Alexa and IFTTT
- Made with two-way audio to clearly speak to guests
- Includes night vision for crystal clear camera footage in the dark
- IP65-certified weatherproof outdoor security camera
4. Reolink RLK8-800B4 4K
Our take
This Reolink camera system offers continuous video recording. It uses a Plug and Play POE system to store up to 2TB of video clips and up to 4TB with an external hard drive for additional storage. Use the Reolink app to check on your business using your smartphone. You’ll get smart motion alerts anytime motion is detected around your business. This system does require a network connection and a 330-foot cable. It’s backed by a 2-year warranty.
Stand-out features include
- Stores up to 4TB of video storage
- Uses a Plug and Play PoE system for monitoring and recording
- 2-year warranty
5. Night Owl 4 Channel 1080p Wireless Smart Security Hub - (WNVR201-44P-B)
Our take
This Night Owl channel system includes four indoor and outdoor cameras. It comes with 1080p HD video quality and 100 feet of night vision. It has a 100-degree wide-viewing angle and is easy to set up in two minutes or less with a power adapter. The system comes with two-way audio and 300 feet wireless signal for coverage. The Night Owl system uses dual sensor technology to reduce false alarms while only detecting heated objects and motion. It doesn’t require Internet connectivity so you can use an NVR and TV monitor to capture footage.
Stand-out features include
- Dual sensor technology
- No internet required
- 100-degree wide-viewing angle
Price | $109.99 | $499.99 | $99.99 | $599.99 | $499.99 | $299 | $79.99 | $99.99 | $249.95 | $129.99 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Indoor or Outdoor | Outdoor | Both | Both | Outdoor | Both | Indoor | Indoor | Indoor | Both | Outdoor |
Wide-viewing angle | 112 degrees | 160 degrees | 110 degrees | 97 degrees | 100 degrees | 130 degrees | 180 degrees | 113 degrees | 30-95 degrees | 90 degrees |
Night vision range | 164 feet | N/A | N/A | 100 feet | 100 feet | 20 feet | 320 feet | 20 feet | N/A | 65 feet |
DVR or NVR | NVR | N/A | N/A | NVR | NVR | N/A | N/A | N/A | NVR | N/A |
Cloud storage available | Yes | Yes | Yes | N/A | N/A | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
Voice assistant compatibility | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | N/A | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
Maximum number of cameras | 16 cameras | 5 cameras | 10 cameras | 8 cameras | 128 cameras | 10 cameras | N/A | N/A | 16 cameras | N/A |
Warranty | N/A | 1 year | 1 year | 2 years | N/A | 1 year | 1 year | 3 years | 2 years | 1 year |
Frequently Asked Questions About Business Security Cameras
Many business security providers require contracts, but there are many that don’t. A contract for business security cameras depends on your provider and service needs.
Some providers offer professional monitoring to alert you if there’s suspicious activity or sensors are triggered. Check with business security providers to see what professional monitoring services are available for cameras and other equipment.
Some business cameras can be bought as standalone equipment. Meanwhile, some professionally monitored and contracted providers require a business security system with cameras.
There are great wired and wireless business security camera options. Your choice depends on your preference. WIred business cameras often require professional installation for power. Some wireless cameras may limit the number of cameras you can connect without overloading your Internet or connection source.