Best Business Security Camera Systems for 2023
Compare the best business security camera systems. See features, pricing, and get the information that will help you decide which is best for your business.
Updated on September 19th, 2023
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Security camera systems for small business are inter-linked, multi-camera setups that help companies monitor multiple spaces at a business. They can improve safety, prevent loss, and curb unauthorized access to premises.
Business Security Camera Software
Learn more about security camera software for small businesses. Includes pricing and frequently asked questions about security software.
Jan 30, 2023
Why We Chose Lorex, Night Owl, and Swann:
The Lorex 8-Channel Surveillance System is a feature-packed solution. Suitable for indoor and outdoor use, the cameras boast 4K ultra HD video recording, night vision that extends to 150 feet, and the ability to function within a wide range of temperatures. Users enjoy a 2TB storage capacity that is maximized by HEVC compression.
To ward off prospective intruders, the system includes a customizable LED light and a loud siren. Clients receive mobile notifications and remote monitoring capabilities, allowing them to keep a close eye on suspicious activity.
Though somewhat more expensive than many of our high-ranking camera systems, the Lorex 8-Channel Surveillance System is a highly reliable offering that is backed by a two-year warranty, making it a worthwhile investment.
Another excellent choice is Night Owl's Extreme HD 8-Channel Surveillance System. This wired security camera system ensures uninterrupted viewing and recording, offers high-quality video images with resolutions up to 5MP, and uses advanced detection technology to pick up any suspicious activity.
Swann's 8-Channel Security System offers a feature-rich video surveillance solution that includes features like Smart Search (on-screen activity tracking), True Detect (heat and motion sensing), intrusion and line crossing detection, and 130 ft. night vision. This system is backed by an HD DVR with a 2TB hard drive and weatherproof cameras suitable for indoor and outdoor placement.
Things to Consider When Evaluating Business Security Camera Systems:
- Businesses are especially vulnerable to security breaches during the evening. Ideally, your chosen system should offer high-quality night vision that covers a decent range.
- Some camera systems offer very limited free storage, which necessitates the purchase of additional space. Factor this in when reviewing the prices of your preferred options.
- Cameras that are equipped with features such as bright LED lights and loud sirens could prevent possible burglaries. The cost of investing in these could far outweigh that of damages and theft.
Best Business Security Camera Systems:
Rank | Name | Offer | Review | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1. | $469.99 | Straightforward setup with great video quality and night vision up to 150ft. | ||
2. | $299.99 | Affords high-quality video images plus heat and motion detection, but extra cameras are costly. | ||
3. | $119.99 | Inexpensive and user-friendly option with excellent video quality, but cannot record continuously. | ||
4. | $259.99 | Great day and night vision but setup is tricky and it lacks smart home capability. | ||
5. | Cromorc All in one with Monitor Wireless Security Camera System | $269.99 | User-friendly with an extensive wireless range, but LCD monitor only included in the top-end system. | |
6. | $199.99 | Offers two-way audio, great motion detection, and many notification options, but battery power is limited. | ||
7. | $239.99 | Fairly impervious to weather conditions, but users must pay the monthly cloud subscription fee to access mobile playback. | ||
8. | $139.99 | Cost-effective solution. Option to add a 1TB or 2TB HD. Easy to install and offers good image quality. | ||
9. | $199.99 | High-definition with excellent night vision and a people tracking feature, but the connection sometimes fails. | ||
10. | $439.99 | Covers a large range and offers remote viewing but lacks audio capabilities. | ||
11. | $449.99 | Wireless system with 3 Arlo cameras. Supports wide-angle viewing, but motion detection isn't always responsive. |
Lorex vs. Night Owl vs. Swann:
Our top choice, the Lorex 8-Channel Wired 4K 2TB DVR Surveillance System is more costly than the Night Owl and Swann 8-channel DVR systems we reviewed but also offers the best night vision, making it ideal if you are looking for a multifunctional system to provide superior indoor and outdoor video surveillance for a medium to large-sized property. It also features configurable motion detection and alerts to reduce fake alerts.
Night Owl's 8 Channel HD DVR system with 5MP infrared cameras is the best choice if you are on a budget. The 5MP cameras deliver great image clarity and are enhanced with low-light color boost technology to capture full-color video even as the light fades. This system is a great, cost-efficient option for small to medium-sized offices.
Swann's 8 Channel 4K Ultra HD DVR system is similar to Lorex's system, featuring a 2 TB hard drive and 4K camera resolution. While it does have a shorter night vision range than the Lorex, it can work with Google Assistant and Alexa Amazon, which the Lorex system does not, and has a lower price tag.
Lorex vs. Night Owl vs. Swann Comparison:
Lorex | Night Owl | Swann | |
|---|---|---|---|
Surveillance System | 8-Channel Wired 4K 2TB DVR Surveillance System | The Night Owl 8 Channel HD DVR system with 5MP infrared cameras | 8 Channel 4K Ultra HD DVR Security System 2TB HDD |
Storage | 2 TB local storage | 1 TB local storage | 2 TB local storage |
Resolution | 3840 x 2160 p | 2560 x 1944 p | 3840 x 2160 p |
Remote Monitoring Capabilities | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Suitable for | Indoor/Outdoor | Indoor/Outdoor | Indoor/Outdoor |
Night Vision | 150 ft. | 100 ft. | 130 ft. |
Field of View | 87° | 85° | 90° |
Operating Temperatures | -22°F to 140°F | -4°F to 140°F | -22°F to 122°F |
Pan-Tilt-Zoom Functionality | Zoom functionality | No | Zoom functionality |
Detection Features | Configurable motion detection and alerts. | Motion and heat detection. | Heat, motion, intrusion, and line crossing detection. |
Alerts/Notifications | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Starting Price | $469.99 | $299.99 | $399.99 |
How to Choose a Security Camera System:
1. Assess your surveillance needs.
Assess your premises and take note of all indoor and outdoor points that need to be monitored, for example, corridors, doorways, the perimeter, and access points. This will help you define how many and what type of cameras you will need.
2. Define system requirements.
Make a list of specific feature requirements. You may have different camera requirements for different areas. For example, night vision distance may be a key factor for outdoor surveillance while for doorways a wide viewing angle takes priority.
Quick Guide to Image Resolution:
Format | Resolution | Description |
|---|---|---|
1 Megapixel | 1280 × 720 | Has an aspect ratio of 16:9 and used to be the standard resolution for HD IP cameras, but this is slowly changing. |
2 Megapixel | 1920 × 1080 | Has an aspect ratio of 16:9 and is becoming the new standard resolution of most security cameras. |
4 Megapixel | 2560 x 1440 | Has an aspect ratio of 16:9 and is twice as good as 1080p resolution. Delivers super HD image quality. |
5 Megapixel | 2592 x 1944 | Has an aspect ratio of 4:3. Can produce the same amount of horizontal pixels as 4MP but offers more vertical pixels. Good for capturing clear images of objects in the distance. |
8 Megapixel (4K) | 3840 × 2160 | Refers to a resolution with a horizontal pixel count of around 4,000. Has an aspect ratio of 16:9 and is good for getting clear images when using a digital zoom. |
Having determined the general placements of the cameras you need, you should also have a general idea of the length of cabling you may need to connect the cameras to the recording hub. You may also want to keep in mind that some NVR and hybrid systems can support wireless cameras, but be sure to check the wireless range and image quality they can support.
Once you know your camera requirements, you will also be looking at the best recorder option. The two main options are digital video recorders and network video recorders.
DVR vs. NVR:
Security camera systems can use a Digital Video Recorder (DVR) or Network Video Recorder (NVR) to process video data. DVRs use analog cameras (CCTV cameras) and process the video footage at the DVR while NVRs use IP cameras that process at the camera then transmit to the NVR. NVR systems can be wired or wireless, DVR systems are always wired.
DVR Systems vs NVR Systems:
DVR Systems | NVR Systems |
|---|---|
Typically less expensive. | Typically more expensive. |
Generally easy to use. | Software may require some learning. |
Only wired. | Can be wired or wireless. |
Only works with analog cameras. | Can support facial recognition features. |
There are also hybrid options, which can record images from both analog and IP cameras. A hybrid system is a good option if you are upgrading your current system and want to retain some of the analog cameras you had been using or gradually replace them with IP cameras.
What to look for in a hybrid system:
Some hybrid systems are basically DVRs equipped to support a fixed number of IP cameras and therefore not fully hybrid. If you intend to eventually convert your current system to IP cameras only, make sure that the system can support IP cameras on all channels.
If you only plan on adding a small number of IP cameras with no intention to expand or convert fully, a DVR system that supports a certain number of IP cameras will suffice.
3. Research and compare offers.
Once you know how many cameras you need, the specifications, and the type of recording system you are looking for, it will be much easier to compare your best options. Key features to evaluate include:
- Preinstalled HDD and options to expand storage capacity.
- The number of channels and types of cameras supported.
- Camera specifications, including resolution, detection features, night vision, viewing angle, and resilience.
- Camera resolution vs. recording resolution.
- Option to adjust the recording resolution to expand the hours of footage that can be stored before overwriting.
- Remote viewing and managing capabilities.
- Integrations with applications like Dropbox, Google Assistant, or Amazon Alexa.
- Alerts and notifications.
Best Standalone Security Cameras for Small Business:
Why We Chose NETGEAR Arlo Q, Logitech Circle 2, and Blink XT2:
The NETGEAR Arlo Q is an easy-to-install camera with an extensive array of useful features. Noteworthy mentions include two-way audio, activity zones, night vision, as well as integrations with Alexa and Google Assistant. Users have the option to configure bespoke sound and motion alert schedules based on their lifestyles.
Beyond push notifications, the NETGEAR Arlo Q also offers email alerts; a capability that many of its competitors lack. The product also includes rolling seven-day storage at no cost, which is one of the more generous offerings on the market. For a fee, users can access the Arlo Q's continuous recording and person detection features.
Though waterproof, the NETGEAR Arlo Q is intended for indoor use. For more about outdoor cameras, view our detailed list of the best ones that are currently on the market.
The Logitech Circle 2 is another top choice, is suitable for indoor and outdoor use, and offers great video quality as well as a 180° viewing field. It also features integrations with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Homekit, sends push notifications, and allows for 2-way audio.
The Blink XT2 is a great choice for small businesses looking for something more cost-effective. The Blink XT is a completely wireless high definition camera with a battery life up to 2 years, customizable motion zones, 2-way audio, and more. It is suitable for indoor and outdoor use, connects to WIFI networks, and integrates with Alexa.
Best Business Security Cameras:
Rank | Name | Offer | Review | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1. | $199.99 | Easy-to-install camera that features two-way audio plus integrations with Alexa and Google Assistant. | ||
2. | $179.99 | Great video quality with a wide angle as well as smart home capability. | ||
3. | $99.99 | Cost-effective product that has a long-lasting battery but records in bursts of 10 seconds. | ||
4. | $249.99 | Includes motion and audio alerts plus a battery life of six months but doesn't offer continuous recording. | ||
5. | $79.00 | High resolution, easy-to-install product but video sometimes lags. | ||
6. | $199.00 | Choice of battery- and solar-powered options, none of which offer free cloud storage. | ||
7. | $119.99 | Competitively priced and user-friendly but lacks the ability to record continuously. | ||
8. | $199.99 | Records continuously and includes activity zones, but the connection sometimes fails. | ||
9. | $49.95 | Easily installed camera that features motion detection and two-way audio, but users have reported software bugs. | ||
10. | $19.99 | Inexpensive indoor camera that integrates with Alexa and offers 120-degree coverage. | ||
11. | $49.99 | Inexpensive offering that affords 360-degree coverage but is challenging to configure. | ||
12. | $251.99 | Wireless camera that can be powered by a battery or solar energy, but cannot function without a SIM card. | ||
13. | $89.99 | Offers up to 350-degree coverage and functions best with a stable internet connection. | ||
14. | $35.99 | Well-priced option that includes a 360-degree view field but lacks smart home capability. | ||
15. | $499.99 | Delivers 360-degree coverage and night vision up to 325ft, but setup is challenging. |
NETGEAR Arlo Q vs. Logitech Circle 2 vs. Blink XT2:
All our top three choices are connected via WiFi and don't require a hub. They each offer 1080p image resolution, night vision, motion detection, and a convenient mobile application. Our first choice, Netgear's Arlo Q, is the most expensive of the three ($199.99), followed by the Logitech Circle 2 ($179.99).
The BlinkXT2 is the cost-conscious choice at $99.99. It offers a smaller viewing angle than the other two and lacks features such as zoom functionality. The Logitech Circle 2 offers the most impressive viewing angle of 180° and is, like the BlinkXT2, suitable for both indoor and outdoor placement.
In comparison to Netgear's Arlo Q, the Logitech Circle 2 falls short on its night vision range (up to 15 ft. compared to 25 ft.) and free Cloud storage (24 hours vs. 7 days). Unlike the other two, the Arlo Q is purely for indoor use.
NETGEAR Arlo Q vs. Logitech Circle 2 vs. Blink XT2 Comparison:
NETGEAR Arlo Q | Logitech Circle 2 | Blink XT2 | |
Image Resolution | Up to 1080p | Up to 1080p | Up to 1080p |
Night Vision | Yes (up to 25 ft.) | Yes (up to 15 ft.) | Yes (range not specified) |
View Field | 130° | 180° | 110° |
Motion Detection | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Zoom | Yes | Yes | No |
Audio | 2-way | 2-way | 2-way |
Placement | Indoor | Indoor/Outdoor | Indoor/Outdoor |
Storage | Cloud, Free for 7 days | Cloud, free for 24 hours | Free Cloud storage (limited to 7,200 total seconds of video) |
Smart Home Compatibility | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Notifications | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Mobile App | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Price | From $199.99 | From $179.99 | From $99.99 |
Small Business Security Systems
Learn more about small business security systems. Includes contact details and frequently asked questions about small business security.
Sep 19, 2023
Security Cameras and Data Security:
Data security is an important aspect to consider* when evaluating security cameras and systems.
While wireless camera security systems are often the most vulnerable to hacking attempts, wired systems are not immune to security breaches either, as in most cases the system is connected to the internet to enable remote and mobile access.
When comparing levels of encryption, you may find that many brands will mention 128- or 256-bit encryption or financial encryption standards. The most common data encryption level used by many businesses in industries other than financial services is 128-bit encryption, while the standard for bank-level encryption is 256-bit.
Be sure to investigate what security measures are used to protect your data and personal information. Most security cameras and systems have a mobile app that can be used for remote viewing and control. Don't forget to check how secure the app is and whether there have been security breaches in the past.
Learn what you can do to prevent your security cameras from being hacked.
FAQs:
What are the best security camera systems?
What is the best wireless outdoor security camera?
What are the best outdoor security camera systems for business?
How much is a security camera system?
A small business security camera system can cost between $145.99 and $1,999.00 depending on how many cameras you need, the type of cameras, and the features that you require.
Are wireless security cameras good?
Yes. Wireless technology continues to improve, and a wireless camera now has virtually the same quality and features as a wired camera, and they're a bit easier to install.
Which is better, DVR or NVR?
Both Digital Video Recorders (DVRs) and Network Video Recorders (NVRs) are excellent recorder types, with only minor differences between them. NVRs have slightly better picture quality, easier installation, and more flexibility. These features make NVRs more expensive than DVRs. A DVR is a cheaper yet sufficient option.
Are WiFi security cameras safe?
Hacked security cameras pose a safety risk for your business or home. Follow these steps to ensure that your WiFi security cameras are properly protected.
- Encrypt your home wireless network.
- Turn off remote online monitoring.
- Update the camera’s firmware regularly.
- Purchase a WiFi camera from a trusted source.
- Disconnect your webcam when you are not using it.
- Cover the lens of your webcam.
- Use anti-malware programs.
Do you have to have WiFi for wireless security cameras?
No. You will need a wireless security camera system with a WiFi Network Video Recorder (NVR). The NVR and the security cameras don't need WiFi because they will connect with each other. All you need after that is to connect them to a monitor or TV. A second option is to use a wireless security IP camera.
Is wired or wireless security cameras better?
Wired security cameras are more reliable and support larger camera systems. Bigger properties that require more cameras are best supported with wires, since wired systems can connect up to 16 cameras. However, wired systems take more time to install and are vulnerable to power outages. Wireless systems are easier to install and can be mounted in more locations. The downside to wireless systems are signal interference and WiFi range limits.
What are the best wireless security camera systems for business?
Are camera security systems for business affordable?
Yes. You can start off with four cameras for as little as $99.99. The price increases as you add features, like focal distance or night vision, and as you add channels (the ability to support more cameras) and cameras. Overall, security camera systems for business are quite affordable these days.
Are wireless security camera systems for business expensive?
Not at all. A 4-camera system can start at around $145.00. They can get much more expensive than that, depending on how many cameras and what features you need, but most companies can afford a basic one.
How should we go about choosing business camera security systems?
Start by deciding what your needs are. Do you need indoor or outdoor cameras or both? Wireless? How many cameras do you need? Do they need night vision? Long-distance capabilities? Look into features, check out some security camera system reviews, and compare pricing. That should help you choose security camera systems for business pretty quickly.
Should I buy a full system or a standalone camera?
This depends on your budget and needs. If you just need to keep an eye on a cash register, or your budget is less than $50.00, consider a standalone. If your business security requires a camera in multiple locations, a system may be right.
What are the best security camera systems for small business?
What is the price range of a business security camera?
A business security camera can cost between $$19.99 and $499.99 per camera.
What are the best security cameras for small business?
Are wireless security cameras for business expensive?
Not at all. A high-quality wireless security camera for your business starts at $25.98 for a single camera. Of course, there are more expensive security camera business options. It depends on what features you need and the number of cameras you are interested in.
What are the best commercial security cameras?
How can I choose the best security cameras for business?
See how customers have ranked cameras on sites like Amazon, check out the best security cameras for business reviews, and think about what features you need. Should it be wireless? Indoor or outdoor? Does it need a spotlight? All this should help you narrow down your choice quickly.
Where can I learn more about general security systems?
Check out our guide to business security systems. We've got prices, reviews, and feature information for the top security systems.