Home Security Can Be Cheap, But It Doesn’t Have to Be

I was doing some research on home security and smart home automation when I ran across an article on the NY Post website. The article got me thinking about one of the fundamental truths of home security: it can be cheap, but it doesn’t have to be. There is a particularly good case for spending more to get better equipment.

The Post article focused on one particular brand well-known for producing budget-friendly devices. In this specific case, the article’s author chose to discuss wireless cameras. Nic Dobija-Nootens made the point of letting readers know that they could significantly boost their home security potential by investing in a wireless camera that costs less than $20.

A Pretty Inexpensive Camera

I cannot argue with the fact that a sub-$20 camera is a pretty inexpensive camera. Nor will I even imply that such a cheap camera doesn’t work. I have plenty of personal experience with budget-friendly devices that deliver as promised. I have no reason to believe the cameras from this particular brand don’t do that.

If you do not have a lot of money to spend on home security, an entry-level camera that costs less than a good meal at a sit-down restaurant could actually be a good investment. Just understand that cameras at that price point are basic devices. They almost always lack the more advanced features you get with pricier models.

That’s okay, by the way. You might not need or want things like night vision and onboard audio. Maybe all you want is a simple video stream you can monitor with your smartphone. Go for it. Just know that if you want more advanced features and functions, they only come at a cost.

You Get What You Pay For

Home security is one of those things that proves the ‘you get what you pay for’ principle true. Cameras with night vision and onboard audio cost more than cameras that offer only basic video recording. Cameras with network connectivity capabilities are more expensive than cameras that do not connect.

All of this is to say that it is worth investing in more expensive equipment if you have the financial means to do so. You get so much more for your money. Sticking with the video camera principle, what if you could buy more advanced wireless cameras that could be monitored remotely? Would they be worth the investment?

Vivint Smart Home is one of several nationwide home security providers that offer professionally installed and monitored security systems. If you want a system consisting of nothing but interior and exterior cameras, Vivint can make it happen. You can get the latest video cameras with all the bells and whistles. On top of that, you will also get 24/7 monitoring. You’ll pay more than you would for entry level cameras, but you will likely get more for every dollar you spend.

Room for Both

One of the nice things about modern home security is that there is room for both strategies – and everything in between. You can do things on the cheap if that is all your budget will allow. You can also invest thousands of dollars in the biggest and best system on the market. It is entirely up to you.

Home security can be cheap. It can be budget friendly. But it doesn’t have to be. If you can afford to spend more and choose to do so, you can get a lot for your money. On the other hand, you can trick out your house with top-of-the-line security equipment built to keep bad actors away.