Latest news with #securitycamera
CNET
4 days ago
- CNET
After Installing Dozens of Security Cams, I've Found the Best Places to Put Them
After unboxing your new security cam, it's time to install it -- and that means deciding where to place the cam and how to mount it. That's not always an easy decision, and it's different for every home. I and other CNET reviewers have tested all kinds of security cameras, from screw mounts and adhesive strips to solar panel add-ons and basic put-it-on-shelf models. Since we've tried security cams everywhere, we know where they work best to take advantage of high-tech features like AI detection and wide-angle lenses. Here's how to do it. Where should you install a home security camera? 1. Exterior: Front door You might assume that intruders always sneak into side entrances, but statistics from the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors show that 34% of burglars use the front door. It's also where package thieves are likely to strike. A camera at your main entrance keeps tabs on everybody going in and out of your home, from family members and babysitters to maintenance people, delivery people and more. Pro tip: Video doorbells are great picks for the front door. You can use them as the primary camera or in conjunction with another outdoor camera aimed at the yard or garage. Blink's Outdoor 4 cam is easy to mount and reliable for watching an outdoor space. CNET/Tyler Lacoma 2. Exterior: Back and side doors Doors that are out of sight allow visitors to enter undetected, whether they're invited or not. NACHI statistics show 22% of break-ins happen through the back door. To ensure full knowledge of everyone who enters and exits, add cameras to your secondary doors, especially if one of them is used as often or more often than your front door, or if one (like a basement door) seems particularly enticing or accessible to a potential intruder. 3. Exterior: Garage and driveway Garages are a common target of burglars because they're one of the weakest entry points. A camera pointed at your garage and/or driveway keeps a watchful eye on bikes, tools, grills, sports equipment, cars and everyone that handles them. If your garage is detached, the camera helps you stay connected. If the garage is attached, the extra layer of security monitors another possible entryway into your home. If there's a gate at the end of your driveway, you may want a camera there to spot anyone attempting to get in. 4. Exterior: Wide yard views Monitoring the yard will help you keep tabs on anyone scoping out your house. It's also handy for capturing the activities of kids, animals and trespassers. As with garages, look for cams that have a wide field of view to capture lots of action, at least 130 degrees and preferably more. If you have a yard entrance, like a fence gate or a shed doorway, make sure the camera can see it. Blink offers a cheap option for a smart floodlight cam. Blink 5. Interior: Common areas Placing cameras in gathering points like the kitchen or living room is a great way to see if the kids are doing what they're supposed to do, if the babysitter is attentive, what the pets are getting into, or to check on household help like cleaners and repairmen. Consider prioritizing any rooms that have large ground-floor windows — that way you can see if anyone tampers with them or uses one as a break-in point. If there's a key point of interest like a sofa, pet bed or living room play area, make sure the camera can see it. 6. Interior: Main stairway or hallway Place a camera in the main thoroughfares inside your home to make it difficult for someone to move about undetected. If someone breaks in through a bathroom, bedroom or another unmonitored area, they'll still be captured on camera if they move about the house. Indoor security cameras are useful, but finding ones with privacy shields are worthwhile to help minimize the risks of hackers gaining access to sensitive footage. Arlo Here's where you should never install a security camera Places that violate your neighbor's privacy. Cameras are great for your safety, but you need to be mindful of the privacy of others in your neighborhood. In general, homeowners are allowed to have outdoor security cameras that cover a broad area, and it's usually OK to capture your neighbor's public-facing property in the background of your footage. Learn more with our full guide. Cameras are great for your safety, but you need to be mindful of the privacy of others in your neighborhood. In general, homeowners are allowed to have outdoor security cameras that cover a broad area, and it's usually OK to capture your neighbor's public-facing property in the background of your footage. Learn more with our full guide. Bedrooms and bathrooms. The urge to keep a watchful eye on kids or elderly folks in your household is understandable. However, some areas have a warranted expectation of privacy. Plus, if you use a monitoring service, you run the risk of a hacker tapping into a camera that has access to your private spaces. Luckily, there are plenty of alternatives. Baby monitors are a smart choice for very young kids' rooms. Motion detectors and glass break sensors, as part of a connected home security system, can be added to doors and windows. Personal medical alert systems are strong choices for seniors. Tips for outdoor security cam placement Eufy's solar panel makes a great pairing with this open-range security cam. Eufy Once you decide which locations to monitor, you also need to plan your mounting decisions. These tips make easy work of this step: Install cameras 8 to 10 feet from the ground. This height is low enough to capture fine details but high enough to be out of easy reach of thieves and vandals. This height is low enough to capture fine details but high enough to be out of easy reach of thieves and vandals. Don't point cameras directly at the sun. Bright light causes glare and high contrast in your footage, which makes it hard to tell what's going on. Consider the movement of the sun and angle your cameras for indirect light. Bright light causes glare and high contrast in your footage, which makes it hard to tell what's going on. Consider the movement of the sun and angle your cameras for indirect light. Protect the camera from the elements. Top outdoor security cameras have ample weather- and waterproofing, but they are not all equal. Choose a camera that's appropriately rated for your climate, and place it under eaves or in another semi-protected area if you can. Top outdoor security cameras have ample weather- and waterproofing, but they are not all equal. Choose a camera that's appropriately rated for your climate, and place it under eaves or in another semi-protected area if you can. Avoid places too close to branches or bushes . Plants grow over time and can block your security camera. . Plants grow over time and can block your security camera. Let cameras be visible. Visible cameras can act as a deterrent against theft, and that's one of the best uses of your security system. Tips for indoor security cam placement Corners are your friends. Hanging an indoor camera in the corner of a room usually gives you the largest possible vantage point. Hanging an indoor camera in the corner of a room usually gives you the largest possible vantage point. Choose a shelf for versatility . If you don't have to mount your cam, placing it on a shelf allows you to make adjustments later or even move it to another room. . If you don't have to mount your cam, placing it on a shelf allows you to make adjustments later or even move it to another room. Windows can cause reflection issues. Pointing a camera at the window might degrade its image quality. Many security cameras have infrared light technology, which aids in motion detection and enables the cameras to function in low light. IR light can reflect off windows and other glass objects and obscure your footage, especially in the dark. If your footage looks washed out or whited out, there is likely a reflection problem. Pointing a camera at the window might degrade its image quality. Many security cameras have infrared light technology, which aids in motion detection and enables the cameras to function in low light. IR light can reflect off windows and other glass objects and obscure your footage, especially in the dark. If your footage looks washed out or whited out, there is likely a reflection problem. Angle for indirect light. Again, direct light will wash out your footage. With indoor cameras, be mindful of lamps, light fixtures and bright windows. Avoid facing your camera directly toward these light sources. Do video doorbells have special installation rules? Yale's smart lock pairs with the Nest Doorbell. Yale Position video doorbells so they have a good view of your porch or entryway. These cameras are angled a bit differently than other security cameras, so follow the manual instructions carefully. Usually, they need to be placed around 4 feet up from the base of the front door. In tighter spaces, video doorbells should be angled outward to capture as much activity as possible. Fortunately, many video doorbells come with a special wedge just for this purpose. Otherwise, put it where people would naturally press a doorbell. Are there super-portable security cams? In some cases, you may want a security camera that you can move around all the time. That makes it easy to put down wherever the kids are playing, indoors or outside, or to focus on a problem spot where things keep going missing (avoid workplace refrigerators, please). In these cases, we recommend battery-powered indoor/outdoor cams that you can move anywhere and that are weather-resistant in case they're left out in the rain. One candidate is Ring's Stick-Up Cam Pro ($180), which has an excellent collection of watchful features. Another option is the Google Nest Indoor/Outdoor Cam battery model ($176), which is often shown mounted but can also come with a tabletop mount. For more home security tips, check out how to prevent your home security cameras from being hacked and the best cheap home security systems you can buy.
Gizmodo
5 days ago
- Gizmodo
This Tiny Solar Security 2K Camera Is Now 50% Off, Amazon Is Cutting All Margins to Keep You Safe
Outdoor security cameras can feel like more trouble than they're worth at times – running wires together, with battery packs that take forever to charge, wrestling with terrible video quality and with monthly subscription fees that shoot up fast. But today, Amazon's offering a solution that trims all those problems on its head and it's priced nearly too low to believe: The Eufy Security Cam (S220) is a wireless outdoor security camera with solar power and it is currently discounted by 50%, bringing the price down to just $64 from its original list price of $129. At this price, it's one of the best deals you'll find for a reliable high-quality security camera. See at Amazon Super Easy To Use Unlike traditional outdoor cameras that require complex wiring or frequent battery replacement, this camera uses solar power and offers round-the-clock monitoring without the inconvenience of frequent maintenance. The built-in solar panel on the camera ensures continuous charging throughout the year and you will never miss an important moment because your camera's battery has drained. Installation is quick and easy, with no need for professional help or special tools: just mount the camera in your desired location, connect it to your Wi-Fi network and you're ready to go. The camera records in crisp 2K resolution and delivers clear and detailed footage day or night. Whether monitoring your house, watching deliveries, or sitting on watch for your pets, you'll appreciate the freshness and definition of the video. The camera features improved night vision as well so you can see outside even at night. Unlike other security cameras which lock core functions behind paywalls, this camera stores all your recordings locally and allows you to watch them whenever you want without paying any extra charges. The Eufy Security Solocam S220 is also compatible with the Eufy Homebase 3 which offers extra storage capabilities and security features for those who want even greater control of their video. The camera has 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi which provides a solid connection no matter how far it sits from your router: This makes it ideal for any outdoor space, from porches and backyards to beyond. The camera is also weatherproof with a tough build that can withstand rain, snow, and even the intense heat of extreme temperatures. With its solar-powered design, sharp 2K footage, and no monthly fees, it's the perfect choice. Don't miss this all time low price. See at Amazon
Gizmodo
5 days ago
- Gizmodo
This Solar-Powered TP-Link Tapo Security Camera Kit Is at Its Lowest Price, Black Friday Price Live Again
Long gone are the days where you'd need a pricey subscription to take care of your home with a security camera. You can get as many units you need now without having to sign a contract or pay for service fees. You can install them yourself. They're wire-free, weatherproof, and powered by the sun. And best of all, right now you can get a set that's heavily discounted and delivered straight to you via Amazon. Right now, you can head to Amazon to pick up the TP-Link Tapo SolarCam C402 Kit for just $40, down from its usual price of $55. That's a discount of 27% and $15 off. See at Amazon Solar-powered home protection at a significant discount The Tapo SolarCam C402 Kit is an all-in-one kit that comes with an outdoor camera and a dedicated solar panel. It features full HD 1080p video, color night vision, two-way audio, motion detection, and even a built-in siren. That's for scaring off potential creeps who might be darkening your doorstep. You can mount the solar panel separately from the camera, which means you can point the lens exactly where you need it, while still making sure the panel gets decent sun exposure. Having some sunshine pointing to it every day keeps it charged, and the built-in battery is designed to run even on overcast days. That way you don't have to worry about replacing batteries or charging it up. The sun does all the work for you. Everything is controlled through TP-Link's Tapo app, where you can adjust motion zones, enable notifications, and review recorded footage. It supports local storage with a microSD card or optional cloud storage as well if you want more access. Setup is beginner-friendly and doesn't require tools beyond what's in the box. It's IP65 weather-resistant, too, so you can install it and forget about it, no matter the season. This camera even lets you store footage and review it as needed with your phone, no matter where you are. It doesn't require you to pay a monthly fee to do so either, so you can pay the one fee of $40, set it up, and rely on it for the foreseeable future. That's not something you can say about every camera right now, so it's a good idea to snag yours now while it's available. If you've been putting off home security upgrades because they seemed like a hassle or too expensive, this limited time deal is more than worth it. It's low-maintenance, simple to use, and takes care of itself. Plus, if you've got less than $40, you can protect your home and belongings. See at Amazon
CTV News
13-06-2025
- CTV News
‘A daily event': Red-winged blackbirds attack Etobicoke residents
Security camera captured the moment an aggressive red-winged blackbird dive-bombed a delivery driver - one of many such incidents reported across the city.
CNET
10-06-2025
- CNET
I've Installed Dozens of Security Cameras: Here's Where to Put Them
Buying a security camera for your home is only the first step: You also have to decide where to put it. That's not always an easy decision for outdoor or indoor cameras -- but the right position and angle can make a world of difference. So where do you put your mount? I and other CNET experts have tested a wide variety of cameras around our homes, from screw-in mounts and solar panel accompaniments to adhesive strips and shelf mounts. We've tried it all, and we know where these security cams work best. With locations like these, your cams will be free of obstructions and have excellent positioning to take advantage of their wide-angle lenses and other capabilities like AI detection. Where should you install a home security camera? 1. Exterior: Front door You might assume that intruders always sneak into side entrances, but statistics from the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors show that 34% of burglars use the front door. It's also where package thieves are likely to strike. A camera at your main entrance keeps tabs on everybody going in and out of your home, from family members and babysitters to maintenance people, delivery people and more. Pro tip: Video doorbells are great picks for the front door. You can use them as the primary camera or in conjunction with another outdoor camera aimed at the yard or garage. Blink's Outdoor 4 cam is easy to mount and reliable for watching an outdoor space. CNET/Tyler Lacoma 2. Exterior: Back and side doors Doors that are out of sight allow visitors to enter undetected, whether they're invited or not. NACHI statistics show 22% of break-ins happen through the back door. To ensure full knowledge of everyone who enters and exits, add cameras to your secondary doors, especially if one of them is used as often or more often than your front door, or if one (like a basement door) seems particularly enticing or accessible to a potential intruder. 3. Exterior: Garage and driveway Garages are a common target of burglars because they're one of the weakest entry points. A camera pointed at your garage and/or driveway keeps a watchful eye on bikes, tools, grills, sports equipment, cars and everyone that handles them. If your garage is detached, the camera helps you stay connected. If the garage is attached, the extra layer of security monitors another possible entryway into your home. If there's a gate at the end of your driveway, you may want a camera there to spot anyone attempting to get in. 4. Exterior: Wide yard views Monitoring the yard will help you keep tabs on anyone scoping out your house. It's also handy for capturing the activities of kids, animals and trespassers. As with garages, look for cams that have a wide field of view to capture lots of action, at least 130 degrees and preferably more. If you have a yard entrance, like a fence gate or a shed doorway, make sure the camera can see it. Blink offers a cheap option for a smart floodlight cam. Blink 5. Interior: Common areas Placing cameras in gathering points like the kitchen or living room is a great way to see if the kids are doing what they're supposed to do, if the babysitter is attentive, what the pets are getting into, or to check on household help like cleaners and repairmen. Consider prioritizing any rooms that have large ground-floor windows — that way you can see if anyone tampers with them or uses one as a break-in point. If there's a key point of interest like a sofa, pet bed or living room play area, make sure the camera can see it. 6. Interior: Main stairway or hallway Place a camera in the main thoroughfares inside your home to make it difficult for someone to move about undetected. If someone breaks in through a bathroom, bedroom or another unmonitored area, they'll still be captured on camera if they move about the house. Indoor security cameras are useful, but finding ones with privacy shields are worthwhile to help minimize the risks of hackers gaining access to sensitive footage. Arlo Here's where you should never install a security camera Places that violate your neighbor's privacy. Cameras are great for your safety, but you need to be mindful of the privacy of others in your neighborhood. In general, homeowners are allowed to have outdoor security cameras that cover a broad area, and it's usually OK to capture your neighbor's public-facing property in the background of your footage. Learn more with our full guide. Cameras are great for your safety, but you need to be mindful of the privacy of others in your neighborhood. In general, homeowners are allowed to have outdoor security cameras that cover a broad area, and it's usually OK to capture your neighbor's public-facing property in the background of your footage. Learn more with our full guide. Bedrooms and bathrooms. The urge to keep a watchful eye on kids or elderly folks in your household is understandable. However, some areas have a warranted expectation of privacy. Plus, if you use a monitoring service, you run the risk of a hacker tapping into a camera that has access to your private spaces. Luckily, there are plenty of alternatives. Baby monitors are a smart choice for very young kids' rooms. Motion detectors and glass break sensors, as part of a connected home security system, can be added to doors and windows. Personal medical alert systems are strong choices for seniors. Tips for outdoor security cam placement Eufy's solar panel makes a great pairing with this open-range security cam. Eufy Once you decide which locations to monitor, you also need to plan your mounting decisions. These tips make easy work of this step: Install cameras 8 to 10 feet from the ground. This height is low enough to capture fine details but high enough to be out of easy reach of thieves and vandals. This height is low enough to capture fine details but high enough to be out of easy reach of thieves and vandals. Don't point cameras directly at the sun. Bright light causes glare and high contrast in your footage, which makes it hard to tell what's going on. Consider the movement of the sun and angle your cameras for indirect light. Bright light causes glare and high contrast in your footage, which makes it hard to tell what's going on. Consider the movement of the sun and angle your cameras for indirect light. Protect the camera from the elements. Top outdoor security cameras have ample weather- and waterproofing, but they are not all equal. Choose a camera that's appropriately rated for your climate, and place it under eaves or in another semi-protected area if you can. Top outdoor security cameras have ample weather- and waterproofing, but they are not all equal. Choose a camera that's appropriately rated for your climate, and place it under eaves or in another semi-protected area if you can. Avoid places too close to branches or bushes . Plants grow over time and can block your security camera. . Plants grow over time and can block your security camera. Let cameras be visible. Visible cameras can act as a deterrent against theft, and that's one of the best uses of your security system. Tips for indoor security cam placement Eufy's pan/tilt cam is an example of an indoor camera that can see almost everywhere. Tyler Lacoma/CNET Corners are your friends. Hanging an indoor camera in the corner of a room usually gives you the largest possible vantage point. Hanging an indoor camera in the corner of a room usually gives you the largest possible vantage point. Choose a shelf for versatility . If you don't have to mount your cam, placing it on a shelf allows you to make adjustments later or even move it to another room. . If you don't have to mount your cam, placing it on a shelf allows you to make adjustments later or even move it to another room. Windows can cause reflection issues. Pointing a camera at the window might degrade its image quality. Many security cameras have infrared light technology, which aids in motion detection and enables the cameras to function in low light. IR light can reflect off windows and other glass objects and obscure your footage, especially in the dark. If your footage looks washed out or whited out, there is likely a reflection problem. Pointing a camera at the window might degrade its image quality. Many security cameras have infrared light technology, which aids in motion detection and enables the cameras to function in low light. IR light can reflect off windows and other glass objects and obscure your footage, especially in the dark. If your footage looks washed out or whited out, there is likely a reflection problem. Angle for indirect light. Again, direct light will wash out your footage. With indoor cameras, be mindful of lamps, light fixtures and bright windows. Avoid facing your camera directly toward these light sources. Do video doorbells have special installation rules? Yale's smart lock pairs with the Nest Doorbell. Yale Position video doorbells so they have a good view of your porch or entryway. These cameras are angled a bit differently than other security cameras, so follow the manual instructions carefully. Usually, they need to be placed around 4 feet up from the base of the front door. In tighter spaces, video doorbells should be angled outward to capture as much activity as possible. Fortunately, many video doorbells come with a special wedge just for this purpose. Otherwise, put it where people would naturally press a doorbell. Are there super-portable security cams? In some cases, you may want a security camera that you can move around all the time. That makes it easy to put down wherever the kids are playing, indoors or outside, or to focus on a problem spot where things keep going missing (avoid workplace refrigerators, please). In these cases, we recommend battery-powered indoor/outdoor cams that you can move anywhere and that are weather-resistant in case they're left out in the rain. One candidate is Ring's Stick-Up Cam Pro ($180), which has an excellent collection of watchful features. Another option is the Google Nest Indoor/Outdoor Cam battery model ($176), which is often shown mounted but can also come with a tabletop mount. For more home security tips, check out how to prevent your home security cameras from being hacked and the best cheap home security systems you can buy.
