Latest news with #homesecurity
CNET
3 days ago
- CNET
How to Choose the Best Mounting Options for Your Home Security Camera -- I've Tried Them All
After you've decided the best place to put a new home security camera (while dodging the spots you should never put one), you have another choice to make. Security cams come with a variety of base and mounting options, which allow you to set and angle the camera in many ways -- while keeping the camera firmly where you put it. I've tested all kinds of these mounts, from adhesive tape models to screw-in bases, magnetic attachments and more. Below, I'm breaking down what I think of these camera options, which are my favorites and how they can work on different spots and surfaces in your home, too. I've discussed the best spots to install your security camera as well as the worst places to put cams, but there's another important decision home security adopters must make. What sort of mounting option -- how you attach and position the cam -- is best? Security cameras need to stay in place, and I've tested models that come with screws, sticky tape, wires and more. Some even give you a few choices for mounting, so I'm going over all the different kinds of mounts and bases and which methods I think are best. So, which camera mount is best? Magnetic mounts are some of my favorite camera installations. Chris Monroe/CNET The best camera mounts remain versatile while offering reliability in all kinds of conditions. My personal favorites are screw-in or wire-in mounts that use magnetic connectors for the camera so you can easily adjust or remove it. That includes Google Nest options, custom Arlo magnetic mounts and certain Tapo cams. However, traditional screw-in bases have their advantages, and wireless shelf mounts have a versatility that's hard to beat. However, if you're using an adhesive mount or light bulb socket mount, I've found these options are much more limited in where they can go. I'll take each choice one at a time so you can see what I mean. Screw-in wall bases The Blink Outdoor 4 has an adjustable mount that's sturdy enough to stay at the right angle. Tyler Lacoma/CNET Screw-in bases use a couple of screws to attach a camera base to a wall, so users can then attach the camera to the base and angle it. It's a no-nonsense approach that's very reliable for outdoor camera installation, especially wireless cameras (they work on indoor walls, too). You don't have to worry about the base falling down in a windstorm and they're pretty hardy against other elements. The only trick with screw-in bases is that you need to find the right spot and material to screw them in. That can be harder than it sounds. Screwing into stucco, for example, doesn't work well without specialized components and may damage the stucco. And my house has fiber cement siding, which you can't drill through, so many prime locations for security cameras are off limits. These cases require a little creativity, like finding siding, eaves or a fence post that you can screw into safely -- preferably non-structural wood. Screw-in base with magnetic mount Magnetic mounts make cams easy to adjust and charge. Chris Monroe/CNET Another type of screw-in mount uses a magnetic base instead of a physical latch-on design to attach the camera. Nest's outdoor floodlight is one example of how these magnetic bases work, but Tapo and many other brands also have them. This is my favorite version of screw-in mounts. The cameras are so easy to pop off and clean, or make small adjustments to the angle to get them just right. The only issue is that wind or time can somewhat dislodge them, so you may need to course-correct after a while. Wired-in mounts Wired-in cams need a junction box but make great options for floodlights. Tyler Lacoma/CNET I prefer wireless cameras outdoors, simply because of the options they open up for placement. But there's another popular type of camera mount, a wired-in solution where the camera is directly connected to the home's electrical system. This is more common with floodlight cameras, larger dome security cameras, any PoE (Power over Ethernet, which requires a cable connection) camera and similar models. On the plus side, you never have to worry about battery issues with these cameras. However, they may fail if your home loses power. Also, they're a bit of work to install. You'll need to replace the base, plus strip and connect three wires, which not everyone is comfortable with. Also, it requires a junction box or similar wired opening, which limits these cameras to spots where lights or cams are already installed. Overall, I liked wired-in solutions for any camera with big light panels, which don't usually play well with battery models. Plug-in shelf mounts (indoor) The Blink Mini 2 offers shelf and wall mounting options, but you'll need an outlet connection. Tyler Lacoma/CNET The quintessential indoor camera is a simple plug-in model that requires a nearby wall outlet, usually with a cable that's around 4 to 6 feet long. No work involved here, just plug and play -- as long as you have a handy shelf or table to put the camera on. This is a strictly indoor mounting option unless you have specialized outdoor-safe cables. It's a simple, cheap choice, but I recommend picking the exact outlet and spot on a shelf where you will use a security camera first. Many of these plug-in models have pan/tilt features, so they can fit in an out-of-the-way place. Wireless shelf mounts Ring's battery cam is on the higher-end pricewise, but offers a versatile, weather resistant option to watch the kids wherever they are. Tyler Lacoma/CNET This is a rare type of shelf and table mount that supports a wireless, battery-powered camera. Only a few brands offer this option. Nest's indoor/outdoor cam has a compatible cam stand that can charge it, but you don't have to plug it in when the camera is charged, which makes it more maneuverable. More versatile is the Ring Outdoor Cam Plus, previously called the Ring Stick Up Cam, which has shelf/table mounts and a built-in battery. I like this option because you can move these cameras around, taking them from a playroom to an entryway to a backyard, whatever you want to keep an eye on. They also have more permanent mounting options. Adhesive sticker mounts Adhesive mounts work well in some scenarios, but aren't a great fit for many security cameras. 3M Some cameras come with bases similar to screw-in models, but with two-sided adhesive stickers to attach the cam. I'm not going to knock these adhesive pads much: They're usually 3M stickers designed for outside use and they're seriously powerful. But they aren't a great fit for security cameras. Security cams, especially outdoor models, tend to be heavy and a single adhesive strip doesn't, in my experience, hold for very long before the weather and weight lead to cameras falling. There's also another issue -- these adhesive stickers require a smooth, flat, very clean surface to work well. That means you can't use them on siding, concrete or any type of wood or stone. They're mostly limited to metal and glass outdoors, so people may have a hard time finding a spot. Only choose this option for small, lightweight security cams. Many cams with adhesive options still include a screw-in alternative. Light bulb mounts Eversecu's budget model is a cheap way to add a security camera but limited in placement. Eversecu Light bulb mounts, like they sound, are used for special security cameras that screw into light bulb sockets, like a socket above your porch or entryway. That sounds convenient, and it absolutely can be in the right situations, but this is probably my least-favorite mounting option. Light bulb cameras are cheap, but they're usually very limited and lack the quality or extra features that other security cams do. You also lose a light in an important spot for a not-as-useful spotlight instead. And while these cams can usually rotate, they are limited to what they can see from a light socket, so you have very few placement options. It's a fun idea, but rarely practical in the real world. I do recommend them for small, out-of-the-way additions for those who don't want to add a bunch of complex home security. What about solar panel add-ons? If you're mounting a wireless outdoor camera, you also have the option of adding a compatible solar panel to most brands. That means you don't have to worry about replacing the rechargeable battery -- but you will need to install the solar panel at the right angle or find a model with a solar panel built in. The process takes extra work and placement, and won't be as effective in every climate. But if you are getting a wireless outdoor camera for the right sunny spot, it's certainly worth considering. Since you're here, why not stop by my guide to the best DIY home security systems, too?
The Sun
4 days ago
- Business
- The Sun
Last chance to save your home security videos before they're ALL deleted as Ring rival renders 3 popular gadgets useless
HOUSEHOLDS kitted out with a major Ring doorbell rival have been warned their devices will stop working entirely in a matter of days. And all video recordings will be deleted unless you take action immediately. Three gadgets, including a video security camera and a siren, have been discontinued by Hive. The company's home security alarm system, Homeshield, will also cease to function from August 1. Hive - which is owned by British Gas parent company Centrica - started out in 2012. It's mainly known for smart heating as well as smart lighting, both of which are not affected by the upcoming changes. Hive eventually broadened out into smart security. But three years ago bosses decided to step away from security products to focus on "energy-efficient smart-tech" instead. The devices have continued to work since then but the final nail will go into the coffin next week. See the four products being killed off below. Hive View Camera Hive Siren and Keypad Hive Homeshield Hive Video Playback Despite being security-relate products, the Hive Window/Door contact sensors and Hive motion sensors will continue to operate. Ring's flying 'spy drone' that monitors your home in the AIR 'coming 2026' – it stalks burglars & even recharges itself In an email warning sent out to customers recently, Hive said to "download any footage you'd like to keep now". After 11am on August 1 it will be deleted. "It is crucial that you save any required recordings before the cut-off period on the 1st of August 2025," Hive says. "Your data security is important to us, and we take disposal of data seriously. "Therefore, our system will be unable to recover any video footage if you fail to save your recordings before the 1st of August 2025." It also recommends customers "recycle your devices at your local Household Waste Recycling Centre". WHY DOES TECH STOP WORKING? By Jamie Harris, Assistant Technology and Science Editor at The Sun It's annoying when tech and gadgets are discontinued, rendering some - or all - features useless. Fortunately, companies have got better at lengthening how long they support kit. It tends to only happen after quite a few years have passed and the user numbers have dropped quite low. The truth of the matter is, firms have to keep updating and servicing this older tech which costs them money. When there's only a small number of people left using them older gadgets, it's harder to justify the cost. Moreover, new features on things like apps may not work on dated kit. So ultimately, in the end support is dropped for these gadgets so all their energy, money and time can be put into the newer ones.
CNET
6 days ago
- CNET
I Asked Crime Experts When Home Break-Ins Usually Happen and the Answers Stunned Me
Modern home security cameras and smart systems are well-equipped to watch over our homes -- I should know, I've spent years testing more models than I can count. The biggest advantage is that they can watch your home when you're not there, like on a summer vacation or asleep at night. But when is your home the most vulnerable? I took a look. It turns out that burglars tend to break into houses or look for vulnerabilities at a few specific times. Knowing when can help you stay safer and pick the most effective arming and disarming settings for your security system. I'm also quite surprised at some of the most common times and why burglars chose them -- here's what I learned. Read more: What Burglars Look for When Choosing Homes to Break Into 1. The middle of the day (especially early afternoon) Thieves have a lot to gain by acting in the middle of the day. Getty Images If you want to know when burglars try to break in to homes, it's a good idea to ask them. KGW8 out of Portland, Oregon, did just that, interviewing more than 80 (caught) burglars to find out how and when they struck. The answer? Most chose the middle of the day, the hours before or after noon: Homeowners are most likely to be gone at work in the day, thieves have great visibility when exploring a new yard or house, and it's easier to pretend to be a lost friend or family member if they get caught in broad daylight. Burglars commonly strike in the early afternoon -- one specifically said between "12:30pm and 2:30 p.m." People who go home for lunch or errands have most likely finished and are back to work during these hours, so there's a greater chance the home will be empty. Others KGW8 interviewed preferred the morning when there's also a guarantee people will be at work. That's similar to other studies that report burglaries are most likely to occur between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Curious about what burglars are after? Most hunt down cash, jewelry, medications and items that can easily sell for money -- notably guns and small electronics. Any signs that these items exist in a house may attract watchful thieves. They also reported that security systems and big dogs were big deterrents (although we don't suggest getting a dog for security purposes). 2. During the summer (between June and August) Burglars are caught trying to break in far more often in summer than winter. Arlo Burglaries are lowest at the height of winter, and highest during the hottest summer months. Since burglary is often a crime of opportunity and requires quickly casing residential neighborhoods, it makes sense that thieves would prefer longer, warmer days. It's also a lot harder to break into homes if there's ice or snow everywhere. That's why research from places like Arizona State University shows that burglaries reach their height in August, and are generally on the rise between June and August when the weather is warmest. 3. At midnight Amazon's Blink Wired Floodlight cam in action. Blink We know, we just said that burglaries are most common during the warmest, brightest times of day. But not everything is so simple. Research from companies like Vivint has shown that burglaries also spike around midnight, with data showing around 6% of burglaries occurring at 12 a.m. This is an interesting spike because late evening and early morning hours are the least likely times for burglaries. There's just something about midnight that makes some burglars think it's a good time to strike. They may also believe that homeowners are asleep at this time, or that it's easier to hide in the dark. Read more: The Best Tips to Prevent Burglars and Break-Ins With this info now in your brain, you're ready to make great decisions about when to arm your security system or when to make sure your smart lights and security camera floodlights are ready to work. It's also a good idea to make sure your smart locks are locked during these times because -- you guessed it -- most burglars start by simply trying the front door. To become a master of your home security, check out our guide on the best places to put security cameras, common home security myths you should stop believing, and what to do if someone you're living with is the one stealing.
Gizmodo
6 days ago
- Gizmodo
Reolink's Solar-Powered Security Camera Hits an All-Time Low as Amazon Clears Out Stock This July
I wouldn't wish a break-in or burglary on my worst enemy. It is a world-shattering experience to have your home, and otherwise sacred and safe space, be invaded. You feel violated knowing someone has been in your space and gone through your belongings. Then there's the loss to consider, both financial and sentimental. All the more reason to install a home security system. REOLINK has an outdoor camera on sale right now for 21% off. It's normally priced at $140, but after the discount, you'll be saving $30. That bring the price down to $110. That's just $110 for peace of mind in your own home. The REOLINK security system is a wireless outdoor 8MP camera capable of recording in 4K. Whether it's day or night, you can capture vivid color and details of basically your whole property. The camera uses an intelligent auto-tracking system to follow motion. It can pan a full 360 degrees and tilt up to 144 degrees, giving you complete view of your yard and driveway. You can even set up to 64 preset points to quickly bounce between when viewing. See at Amazon You can receive alerts on your phone when motion is detected. The REOLINK camera is can identify the difference between a person, vehicle, or animal. This way it can notify you only when something of cause or concern enters frame and not just be constantly pinging your every time a squirrel runs across your lawn. With a lot of security camera, you only have the choice between going wired or battery-powered. With wired, you're limited to where you can install the camera. You need to ensure you can run cable to an outlet from the unit. With battery-powered, it can go anywhere but now you need to worry about replacing the battery once it dies. So with both, you're tethered to it is some way. Not with the REOLINK security camera though. This is solar powered which gives you the best of both worlds. The freedom to place it anywhere with the relief of not having to swap out its power. So long as your REOLINK camera gets at least 20 minutes of sunlight per day, it can power itself indefinitely. The REOLINK solar panel can be installed right on top of the camera or be installed separately, connected with a 177-inch solar cable. This is ideal for if you want to install the camera in a shady spot but still be able to charge it with solar power. For a limited time, you can score the REOLINK solar-powered security camera for just $110. That's a savings of $30, down from it's original price of $140. See at Amazon
CNET
24-07-2025
- Business
- CNET
Some of Our Favorite Security Cameras From Arlo Are Up to 63% Off
Security cameras are pretty essential. Whether you're going on a trip or simply want to keep an eye on things while you're at work or running errands, they can help keep you safe. But that doesn't mean that they are by any means affordable, especially if you want a nicer one. Arlo makes some of our favorite cams out there, but they aren't cheap either. Thankfully, Arlo is having a sale and you can save up to 63% off some of our favorite home security cameras for both indoors and outdoors. Shop the sale at Amazon or Best Buy and take a look at our favorite picks below. The Arlo Pro 5S 2K camera is our overall favorite home security camera. It has tons of smart features. This includes color night vision, 12x zoom, 160-degree field of view, motion detection and even a built-in spotlight. The only thing our experts didn't like was the price. It's certainly pricey, with the three-pack going for $400. But you can score 50% off, bringing the price down to $200, much better. One of our favorite outdoor security cameras, especially for use without Wi-Fi, is the Arlo Go 2. We love it because it has excellent LTE options for zones outside of Wi-Fi but you can still use Wi-Fi to save data. Similar to the 5S cam, it has spotlight and night vision included. And since it's an outdoor cam, it has good weather protection. Our experts didn't like the price for this one either. But now you can take $50 off, bringing the price from $250 to $200. Hey, did you know? CNET Deals texts are free, easy and save you money. If you're looking for a wireless security camera with a floodlight, the Arlo Pro 3 with Floodlight is our favorite one. It's powerful and can light up the darker areas outside your home. It also has 2K resolution and a 160-degree field of view, so you get a crystal clear picture. And if you have Apple Home, it's compatible with that, too. Just be aware that the battery runs out fairly fast. It lasts only a few days before needing a recharge. You can save $80 on it, bringing the price from $250 to a more reasonable $170. For the most savings, take a look at the Arlo Essential security camera. Normally $80 for one camera, you can get 63% off for a limited time bringing the camera to a record-low of just 30 bucks. This camera is wired and goes indoors. It works great as a baby monitor or a pet camera, too. Why this deal matters Arlo makes great security cameras which means they can cost quite a bit, too. That's why it's a great idea to take advantage of this sale now. The cameras are up to 63% off at Amazon and Best Buy. Some of our favorite security cameras are included in this sale. I'm even adding some of these to my cart, because who knows when we'll see discounts like this again.
