Security Cameras
Buyer's guide
Choosing Security Cameras
Resolution, how much detail do you need?
Higher megapixels give a clearer picture but also use more storage and bandwidth. A 2 MP sensor is fine for a basic indoor view, while 3 MP adds enough detail to read a nameplate at the front door. If you want to spot a licence plate or identify a face from the street, 4 MP is a good step up. For a wide-area farm or large property, a 12 MP sensor captures the whole scene with enough pixel density to zoom in later.
- Home interior, 2 MP
- Front door or gate, 3 MP
- Small shop or driveway, 4 MP
- Farm perimeter or large yard, 12 MP
Power options, wired, PoE or solar?
PoE (Power over Ethernet) feeds both data and electricity through a single cable, ideal for wall-mounted cameras that draw up to 14 W. Solar-plus-battery kits run off a 1.04 W draw and can sit idle for about 180 days before needing a recharge, perfect for out-back sheds. A dedicated 4.5 W solar panel can keep a camera powered continuously where mains power isn't reachable. Wi-Fi models use a 2.4 GHz link and pull around 1 W, suited to places with good wireless coverage.
- PoE, reliable, wall mount, up to 14 W
- Solar + battery, 180-day life, 1.04 W draw
- Solar panel, 4.5 W draw, wall mount
- Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz, low draw, needs strong signal
Key features for each location
Outdoor cameras should meet an IP rating: IP65 handles rain and dust, IP66 adds stronger water protection for exposed sites. Colour night vision with a white-light LED reaches up to 20 m, useful for driveways; a 9.1 m range works for tighter spots. Two-way audio lets you speak through the camera, while a simple microphone only records sound. Fixed lenses give a set view, whereas motorised zoom lets you adjust focus remotely. Smart person/vehicle detection reduces false alerts, and you can choose cloud storage (optional subscription) or a local microSD card up to 512 GB.
- IP65 for garden shed, IP66 for farm gate
- Colour night vision, 20 m for driveways
- Two-way audio vs microphone only
- Fixed lens for static view, motorised zoom for adjustable coverage