What's the Difference Between CCTV and Smart Home Security Cameras?

Your home is often your most valuable asset, especially financially. Therefore it’s important to prioritise its protection with home security cameras. Implementing a security camera system to monitor for suspicious activity, vandalism, or, most importantly, theft should be at the top of your list.

However, choosing the right type of security camera can be difficult. With countless brands claiming their technology is the key to your safety, navigating this landscape can feel overwhelming. Should you choose a wired security system or choose a wireless security camera?

To make an informed decision, it’s crucial to understand the difference between CCTV and wireless home security cameras. Trust Smartify Spaces to help you make an informed decision.

What Is A Home CCTV Camera System?

Home CCTV camera systems play a crucial role in security monitoring and surveillance for various facilities. The term CCTV stands for closed-circuit television, which refers to the system’s ability to transmit video footage over a single, dedicated channel, creating a closed circuit. This setup ensures that the footage is only viewable on specific personal monitors or screens, rather than being broadcast publicly.

These systems are designed to continuously capture video footage of a building, with the recording sent to a storage device such as a digital video recorder (DVR) or a network video recorder (NVR).

The video feed from the cameras can be accessed in real-time on dedicated monitors, smartphones, or computers, providing immediate visibility into the security status of your home.

What are Smart Home Security Cameras?

Smart home security cameras, such as the Aqara Camera Hub G2H Pro, connect to Wi-Fi. Allowing users to livestream footage with high video quality from their system and receive notifications when movement, people or packages are detected.

Many of these smart home security cameras are equipped with features such as infrared or colour night vision, cloud or local storage options, remote access and two-way audio, enabling communication with individuals on the camera.

Additionally, some models offer homeowners integrations, with smart platforms like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, enhancing their functionality and convenience. 

Key Differences Between a Wireless CCTV Camera and Smart Home Security Cameras

Frequently Asked Questions About CCTV and Smart Home Security Cameras

• Can you get a smart home camera without a subscription?

Numerous security camera manufacturers have leveraged AI-driven features to entice consumers into subscribing to additional features. However, many excellent options, such as those offered by Aqara, provide intelligent features without requiring any subscription fees. This means you can enjoy advanced security capabilities without the ongoing costs.

• Is it worth installing home security cameras?

Yes, installing home security cameras and other surveillance systems is worth it, especially smart home security cameras. They can act as deterrents, gather evidence and even reduce insurance policies in some circumstances.

• Are CCTV recordings confidential?

CCTV recordings are highly sensitive and must be safeguarded from unauthorised access and tampering. Implementing robust encryption and strict password protection for designated viewers is essential to ensure their confidentiality and integrity.

• Where can CCTV cameras be used?

CCTV cameras are commonly used in public spaces, businesses, and homes. To minimise the risk of theft, it’s important to install them at elevated positions. Additionally, ensure that the camera placement complies with local laws regarding public safety and privacy.

Conclusion

Both traditional CCTV systems and smart home security cameras provide essential surveillance for your home, ensuring you stay informed about what happens even when you’re away. With the ability to review incidents through easily accessible footage on the cloud storage, these systems offer peace of mind.

For those seeking a robust solution that continuously records and stores footage locally- without the need for an internet connection- a CCTV system stands out as the most reliable choice.

On the other hand, smart home security cameras present a budget-friendly alternative. While they typically don’t record continuously, they are versatile enough for both indoor and outdoor use and can be effortlessly installed without professional assistance. 

Choose the home security system that best fits your needs and enhance the security of your home today!

Get in touch with the expert team at Smartify Spaces to discuss your smart camera options!