Security cameras are an important part of any home security system. They can be integrated into the alarm system or can simply be used for monitoring and evidence collection after a burglary or crime has been committed. Additionally, it should be noted that security cameras can help deter crime by simply being located in a visible location: most burglars will think twice about breaking into a home that has a camera installed. However, there are a number of different types of security cameras, each of which works in a different method. Understanding the differences between the most common types of security cameras can help you pick the one that best fits your needs.

Covert Cameras

Covert cameras are a type of security camera which are disguised to look like another installation within your home, like a clock or smoke detector. These types of cameras are ideal for monitoring certain areas of your home that are accessible to people you have a working relationship with and don't want to alert that you are observing, like nannies or contractors.

Day/Night Cameras

Day/night cameras are designed to alter their sensitivity to light in order to provide adequate visibility during different times of the day. This change in sensitivity makes them ideal for outdoor use, as they are also able to handle a large amount of glare and sunlight without sacrificing visibility.

Infrared Cameras

Infrared cameras are a specialized type of security camera that make use of infrared radiation to see in low light or pitch black conditions. For this reason, they are best used in areas that receive no direct sunlight at all, or areas which do not have lighting for use at night, as any visible light (artificial or not) will blind these cameras and make them useless.

Varifocal

Varifocal security cameras, like their name would suggest, are able to maintain focus on the video feed while also altering the amount of zoom. This means that varifocal lenses are able to pick up a greater amount of detail than other simpler security cameras, as zooming in on a video will not cause the quality to degrade.

Speed Domes

Commonly found in small businesses or office settings, these cameras are able to be manipulated by a live operator to pan, tilt, or zoom their view around the room. This allows for active monitoring of the building or area that they are designed in, though they can also be automated to alter their angle throughout the day to improve visibility, such as to avoid glare as the sun moves during the day.