Cheap Home Security Cameras Do It Yourself: DIY Security on a Dime
Home security is a serious matter. According to the FBI, there were an estimated 899,293 burglaries in the US in 2022.
If you want to protect your home and family from intruders, you don’t always need to invest in a costly professional security system. You can set up your own cheap home security cameras do it yourself (DIY) with some simple tools and a little creativity.
In this article, we’ll show you how to set up cheap home security cameras do-it-yourself, without breaking the bank.
Key Takeaway
Why Choose a Cheap DIY Home Security Camera System?
DIY home security cameras offer a cost-effective solution for homeowners. They are easy to install, require minimal technical knowledge, and most importantly, they are affordable. Out of the 107.9 million U.S. households with internet access, around 10% or 10.8 million have installed DIY security systems.
Also, there are some other reasons why you might want to choose cheap home security cameras over a professional security system. Such as:
- You can save money: With cheap home security cameras do it yourself you can use inexpensive or even recycled devices, and avoid recurring costs.
- You can customize your system: You can choose the type, number, and location of cameras that work best for your home.
- You can have more control: You will have full ownership and access to your system. You can view your footage anytime, anywhere, and adjust your settings as you wish.
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What to Expect from a Cheap Home Security Camera?
When it comes to choosing a DIY home security camera, there are several factors to consider:
- Good Resolution: A camera with a high resolution will provide clear and detailed images. A resolution of 1080p is considered standard for home security cameras.
- Night Vision Capability: This feature is crucial for monitoring your home during the night. Look for cameras with infrared night vision capabilities.
- Motion Detection Feature: Cameras with motion detection can alert you when there’s movement in their field of view.
- Decent Storage Capacity: Consider how the camera stores footage. Some cameras offer cloud storage, while others use memory cards.
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Finding the Right Cheap Security Cameras: Top Picks Under $50
You don’t have to spend a fortune to get started with basic monitoring. Here are some affordable security cameras that give you 24/7 security for less than $50 each.
1. Yi Home Camera 3
This tiny Yi camera captures 1080p HD video through an ultra-wide 115° lens. Night vision, motion alerts to your phone, and two-way audio make it a versatile budget pick.
Easy magnetic mounts also let you place it anywhere. At around $50, it’s a feature-packed bargain.
2. Blink Mini
Blink’s indoor plug-in camera shoots 1080p clips triggered by motion or sound. It integrates with Alexa and features infrared night footage. At just $34.99, the Mini is an unbeatable bargain buy.
3. TP-Link Tapo C200
This pan-and-tilt wonder delivers 1080p HD video, 360° horizontal and 114° vertical coverage, and advanced night vision for a complete picture of your domain.
Plus, it boasts two-way audio, motion detection with smart alerts, and even sound and light alarms to scare off unwanted visitors. All for just only at $25.
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4. Wyze Cam v3
Wyze has earned a reputation for delivering pro-level features at entry-level pricing. The Wyze Cam v3 records color night video and supports custom motion detection zones.
This tiny titan offers 1080p HD video, and free cloud storage as well. For under $30, it’s our top money-saving recommendation.
How to Install Cheap Home Security Cameras Yourself
Installing a cheap home security camera is not as hard as you may think. Here are some general steps to follow:
Step_1. Choose a location
You have to choose a location that covers the most important areas of your property, such as the front door, the back door, the windows, or the garage. You should also consider the lighting, the angle, the height, and the distance of the camera Giga Secure.
You may avoid placing the camera where it can be easily tampered with, blocked by obstacles, or affected by glare or reflections.
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Step_2. Connect the camera
Now you can connect the camera to your power source and your network. If you have a wired camera, you should plug it into an outlet or a power adapter, and run the cable to your router or your modem.
If you have a wireless camera, you should insert the batteries or the solar panel, and pair the camera with your Wi-Fi or your hub. You should also download the app or the software of the camera and follow the instructions to set it up.
Step_3. Mount the camera
After connecting the camera, you have to mount it to your chosen location using the screws, the anchors, the adhesive, or the magnets that come with the camera. You should adjust the angle and the position of the camera to get the best view.
You may also test the camera to make sure it works properly and has a clear and stable signal.
How to Make the Most of Your Cheap Home Security Cameras Do It Yourself?
Installing cheap cameras for home is not enough. You should also use them effectively to get the most out of them. Here are some tips to follow:
- Test your system regularly: You should test your system regularly to make sure it is working properly and reliably. You should check the battery level, the Wi-Fi signal, the video quality, the motion detection, the alerts, and the remote access of your cameras.
- Secure your system: You should secure your system to prevent hackers or intruders from accessing or tampering with your cameras and footage. You should use strong passwords, encryption, two-factor authentication, and VPNs for your cameras and devices.
- Review your footage: You should review your footage regularly to monitor any suspicious or unusual activity around your home. You should also save or backup any important or relevant footage that could serve as evidence or proof in case of a burglary or crime
Cheap home security cameras do it yourself is a great way to protect your home and family from intruders. You can install them yourself and monitor your property from anywhere. You need to choose the right camera for your needs, install it, and use it effectively.
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Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs
Are cheap home security cameras really reliable?
While some budget options might lack the bells and whistles of their pricier counterparts, many offer surprising reliability and quality. Be sure to choose a reputable brand and check reviews before setting sail.
Do DIY home security cameras require a Wi-Fi connection?
Most DIY home security cameras require a Wi-Fi connection to transmit footage.
How much does a good DIY home security camera cost?
A good DIY home security camera can cost around $50.
Are DIY home security cameras as good as professional ones?
While professional cameras may offer more features, DIY home security cameras provide excellent security at a fraction of the cost.
How can I protect my camera from hackers?
Choose a camera with strong encryption and two-factor authentication. Keep your firmware updated and change the default password to something strong.
