How To Choose The Best IP Security Camera For Your Needs

April 22nd, 2024



Internet protocol (IP) video cameras are a fantastic option for both home and office security needs in Chico, CA. IP cameras are state-of-the-art and higher quality than standard analog video cameras. They can be accessed remotely, offer great storage and playback options, and can be integrated into your existing security. There is a wide variety of IP video cameras on the market. So choosing which one is right for you can be a little daunting. To help you decide on the best IP camera for your needs, here are some questions to ask yourself.

What Level Of Detail Do You Need To See in Chico, CA?

Think about the purpose of your surveillance system. Do you just need a broad view of your premises to see when someone enters or exits your property? Do you want to be able to pick up small details to prevent crime? Depending on how you will use your camera can help you select what type of lens and field of vision you need. For a general view, you can stick with a standard resolution with a high field of vision. However, for a more detailed view, you may want to consider a smaller field of vision with a high definition resolution of 1080 dpi.

What Features Do You Want?

IP cameras offer some very sophisticated features. Some cameras can pan, pivot, tilt, and zoom with manual controls. Other cameras can turn on when triggered by a motion sensor. While others are lit from the back and can provide fine detail in even dark spaces. Some IP cameras are waterproof, so they are great for outdoors. Think about the area you are monitoring and what kind of features would work best for you.

What Is Your Storage Capability?

IP video cameras interface with a computer system. If you purchase an IP camera with high resolution, you will need both a high amount of bandwidth and storage to capture the images. Therefore, if you buy a high resolution, feature-packed IP camera, you may also have to upgrade your computer systems and internet network. This can be a costly upgrade that isn’t necessarily needed for your security. 

What Is Your Budget?

IP cameras come in a range of price points in Chico, CA. A basic indoor camera can be as low as $80, while a highly sophisticated outdoor camera with all the bells and whistles can run as much as $1400. If you are unsure how much you should budget, weigh the cost of protecting your property against the cost of potential loss. That will help you get a clear picture on what you should spend.

The best way to ensure you are getting the right IP camera for your space is to work with a security expert. Our team will evaluate your security needs, determine the best options, and create an installation and maintenance plan. Give us a call today and we’ll help you find the IP camera that will keep your property safe.

What Our Customers Say

"I had the Alibi system installed several years ago. It has functioned flawlessly. The image quality is exellent both night and day and in all weather conditions. I particularly like the replay (which can be set at various speeds) and zoom functions of the system. Tech support from Crimefreeliving has been excellent. I have received quick responses to questions, and timely home visits — as when I changed IP carriers and my Alibi system needed to be reset. I have recommended Crimefreeliving to several friends."

Rich

"As a small business owner here in Chico we definitely saw the need for video surveillance. After expressing our needs and concerns Tim did an excellent job getting us set up with the set up with the appropriate equipment. He really took the time to address our concerns in a very friendly, professional and knowledgeable manner. I highly recommend Tim for all of your business and residential video surveillance needs."

Ron H., Owner/Auto Doctor

"I have to say I love having my security cameras at my home. Tim Truby did a wonderful job of installing the five cameras. He is very neat and cleaned everything up after the installation. He explained to me how to operate the monitor, my phone and IPad. However, I have had to call Tim because I'm not tech savvy and forget what he has told me. He usually just helps me over the phone and then all is well. I'm 80 years old and enjoy the comfort of knowing I have these security cameras."

Gloria

"Tim Truby designed and installed a 32 camera system for us here at the Butte County Mosquito and Vector Control District. We had received several other quotes from security system vendors, but Tim’s quote was the least expensive. Tim also installed the system quickly and has always been available when we needed him. We are very happy with our security camera system and we can highly recommend Tim Truby for all of your surveillance system needs."

D. Weseman, Butte County Mosquito and Vector Control District

Crime Free Living updated our old video system with a new 16 Channel HD Alibi Video Security System. The old system had been added onto by different installers which resulted in a cabling mess. There were cables that worked and cables that went nowhere. It was a mess. Tim sorted it all out and installed cameras that are very clear. He also installed a monitor for our cashiers to watch hidden areas, a monitor to watch the entry door, and a monitor that allows employees to watch the outside parking and gas pump area. All work was done on time and very professional! Will always recommend Tim and Crime Free Living.

S. AM PM Chico Arco Station

"I had Tim install an Alibi Video Security System at my residence and a couple business locations. The remote view option is invaluable to absentee owners or anyone who travels a lot. The clarity and quality of the cameras have allowed for viewing employee theft. The evidence provided from the HD video cameras was fantastic! Tim was professional and provided extra value from his law enforcement background."

J. Folsom Arco Station

"Tim, I want to thank you again for doing such a fantastic job on installing a wireless IP security camera system at our dream home. The extra time that you took to hide wires, and install a clean, professional system is much appreciated. I still can’t believe the clarity, quality, and ease of use of this new system. I wished that I would have met you before our original inferior system was installed by another company. Now, whether I am at home, or monitoring the system from around the world, I know that my home and family are safe and sound."

John M.

"In April of 2017, my husband and I made a phone call to Crime Free Living that turned out to be a smart and wise decision. Amazingly, in just a few hours, Tim installed four Dome Security Cameras, weatherproof enclosures, and hooked up into our home a 23" Full HD Widescreen Security Monitor. Even more than his professional expertise was the time spent with us in making sure that this system was working correctly and properly installed on our phones so that anywhere in our travels we can monitor our new home in Magalia."

Tieka and Don S.

"I have been using Crime Free Living for the last couple years ar work and at home and I really recommend this product. Tim is a very good service provider. If he can't figure it out, he's got good tech support with the system that he offers."

Gary D.

"I have known Tim for over 10 years. To date, Time with Crime Free Living has installed two separate surveillance systems for my company. With each system, Tim has listened to my needs and custom dsigned surveillance systems for my specific needs and within my budget. The equipment used is always state of the art, the workmanship is top notch, and Tim is the example of trustworthy. I would recommend him for any job."

Steve D., Down Range Indoor Training Center

images Certifications & Training

With 16 years of experience in law enforcement, Tim Truby, CEO, is fully certified in video surveillance and training.

  • Certified Advanced Crime Prevention Specialist
  • Academy Instructor Certification
  • California POST Certification in Specialized Surveillance Equipment
  • California POST Certification in Basic Crime Prevention
    • Advanced Crime Prevention through Environmental Design
    • Certified Alibi Security Dealer
    • Enhanced Risk and Threat Assessment (FEMA)
    • Incident Command System (100 & 200)
    • Certified Cognitech Video Forensic Investigator
    • Neighborhood Watch Toolkit Trainer
    • Computer Crimes/Investigations
    • Domestic Crisis for Crisis Negotiators
    Call (530) 327-7268