1. Video Quality Matters

Without a doubt, video resolution is a critical factor when selecting a CCTV system. In fact, in 2024, HD (1080p) and UHD (4K) are the benchmarks for clear and detailed footage. The higher the resolution, the easier it is to identify important details like facial features or vehicle license plates.

• Recommendation: Always choose cameras that support at least 1080p resolution for clear footage, especially if you are securing a large area.

2. Night Vision is Essential

Since a significant percentage of break-ins occur after dark, it’s absolutely essential to have a CCTV system with high-quality night vision. Systems with infrared (IR) night vision or color night vision are becoming more common and affordable.

• Recommendation: Look for a camera with a night vision range of at least 100 feet to cover larger outdoor spaces effectively.

3. Smart Features Through AI Integration

With the advancements in AI technology, modern CCTV systems can now do much more than just record video. In 2024, AI-powered CCTV cameras can recognize faces, distinguish between humans and pets, and even send real-time alerts to your smartphone. Consequently, this reduces the number of false alarms and ensures that you only get alerts for genuine threats.

• Recommendation: Consider cameras with facial recognition, motion detection, and person detection features for better accuracy and security.

4. Cloud Storage vs. Local Storage

Additionally, how you store your footage is a crucial aspect of any CCTV system. Cloud storage offers easy access to your recordings from anywhere, while local storage, such as an SD card or a DVR, provides more privacy and no ongoing fees. However, it is essential to weigh the pros and cons of each option.

• Cloud Storage: Convenient but usually involves a monthly subscription.
• Local Storage: More private but could be limited in terms of capacity.

5. Smart Home Integration

Finally, many homeowners now prefer to integrate their CCTV systems with other smart devices. Whether you use Amazon Alexa, Google Home, or Apple HomeKit, ensuring your CCTV system integrates with your smart home ecosystem will make it easier to control and monitor.

• Recommendation: Choose a CCTV system that can sync with your existing smart home devices for seamless automation and monitoring.