For many people, their vehicle is their pride and joy, and this pride and joy will often be housed in their garage. Even if your garage doesn’t contain your precious car, it will be used to store some of your most valuable possessions, and that’s why the garage is a prime target for thieves.
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Protecting your garage and everything contained within can be easier said than done, but a security camera can help you to keep an eye on things. If you’ve been considering adding an extra layer of security surveillance to your garage, then you may be lost in the wealth of options to choose from.
This article will be going over some options that you can look through to help you decide which will be the best for you. We will also go over some of the top features you should keep an eye out for when choosing your camera.
Why Use A Garage Security Camera?
The garage is a section of a house or property that is typically at least somewhat separated from the rest of the house. It’s not a part of your home that you will likely be visiting as often as other rooms, so it can be a bit more vulnerable.
Most garages will have a robust door, but any determined thief can likely get past that obstacle. Your garage may be difficult to monitor with line of sight alone, and that’s why a security camera can come in handy.
Some security cameras may have motion detectors that will alert you to any potential malfeasance. Even more basic ones will allow you to see what’s going on if you hear a noise or disturbance coming from your garage.
That allows you to assess the situation without exposing yourself to potential danger. As we mentioned in the introduction, garages are often the first port of call for a thief, so it’s a hot spot that definitely warrants its own camera if you’re wondering where to place your security system.
We have previously looked at 4 ways to improve your home security, and adding a garage camera certainly fits into this plan.
The garage is often one of the most vulnerable points in a home, serving as a primary entry point for burglars. With the National Crime Prevention Council reporting that garages are the entry point in approximately 9% of all home burglaries, choosing the right security camera for this area is crucial. Cameras like those reviewed offer advanced features such as high-definition recording and motion detection, providing homeowners with the tools needed to deter intruders and monitor this critical area effectively.
– Kirk MacDowell, Home Security Expert
What Are The Benefits Of A Garage Security Camera?
If you hear a bump in the night, you will likely want to know what is causing the noise. So if you were to notice a loud noise coming from your garage, you will certainly want to take a look. It could be a cat or a raccoon causing mischief, or it could be someone who admires your car a bit too much and wants it for themselves.
You never know what it could be, so if you open the door, you may be about to face someone with a weapon. That’s where security cameras come in.
Most security cameras, even the most basic ones, allow you to view a feed directly from your smartphone. That way, you can take a look without even leaving your bed.
Garage video cameras also have other applications in our everyday lives. They can be used to see when guests have arrived at your house, for example. While the primary aim of your garage security camera is safety, you will likely find it to be more convenient than you think just generally.
For even more security options, be sure to check out this collection of security systems we have previously compiled.
What To Consider When Buying A Garage Video Camera
When choosing your video camera, there are certain specifications that you need to consider in order to get the most effective camera for your money. Next up, we will briefly cover some of the top specifications to keep in mind.
If you don’t have or use a garage, there are also options for car security cameras that we have looked at previously to give you even more options to consider.
Camera Definition
The whole point of a security camera is to be able to see what’s going on, and that’s why the definition of your camera is important. You want the resolution to be as clear as possible so that you can make out facial details and other important aspects.
Ideally, 1080p should probably be the lowest resolution you consider, but if you can get higher resolutions then that’s even better.
Wireless Or Wired
Whether you get a wired or wireless camera can depend on personal preference. It can also depend on your situation, as each option has its pros and cons. Wireless cameras are a lot easier to install, and some even have solar panels so you don’t need to worry about replacing or charging batteries.
Wired cameras take a bit more effort to install, but you never have to worry about the power supply once it’s installed. It depends on how much effort you’re willing to put in or if you have the right tools to install something more permanent.
Security Integrations
Some fancier security cameras will have some interesting security features that can make you even safer. These can include motion detection, smart alerts, facial recognition, and more. Some of these features can border on being novelties, so you can analyze the different security integrations and determine which will have a practical use for you.
SmartHome Integrations
SmartHome setups have become more and more popular in recent years. They make things a lot more convenient, as different devices and setups can all be part of a centralized system which makes controlling everything much easier.
Some security cameras will be compatible with common SmartHome systems like Alexa even if they’re not made by the same company, so that’s worth looking out for if you already have a SmartHome system in your home.
Remote Operation Capabilities
Remote operation is something that we would say is an essential component. It’s something most cameras will feature, as you can generally view the camera feed from your smartphone. Some will take this even further and allow you to move the camera around from your phone, giving you even more control.
Budget
Everyone has to work from a budget, and luckily this is an aspect where you will have plenty of wiggle room. Home security cameras used to be too pricy for a lot of people, but these days you can get them at surprisingly affordable prices. More expensive ones will generally be better and have more features, but even the cheapest ones will do the job.
It’s all about setting a realistic budget and then finding a camera that will fit it. Given the wealth of options at your disposal, we’re confident that you can find one that works for you no matter what your budget may be.
Our Picks For The Best Security Cameras For Garages
Eufy Security Garage Cam Plus
The first product we have for you to check out is the Eufy Security Garage Cam Plus. This is a fantastic option from a well-known brand, so let’s take a closer look at what it has to offer.
About The Brand
Eufy has recently become a top name in home video surveillance. They have consistently impressed with their wide range of security products, and they seem to have something for every security need you may have.
They are also a security camera provider that doesn’t typically require an additional paid subscription to use, a relative rarity in the industry. Now we will see some of the key features of this particular camera.
Key Features
- Control Up To 2 Doors
The camera can be connected to your motorized garage door, allowing you to remotely open and close up to 2 doors. It supports most modern sectional, tilt and roller doors. - 2K HD Visuals
Earlier, we mentioned that 1080p should be the minimum resolution you look for, and this camera takes it a step further with crisp 2K visuals that will allow for a clear viewing experience. - Connect To Your Phone
You can connect this camera to your smartphone to receive alerts or to view the feed any time you like. - Real-time notifications
The camera can be set to alert your when the door opens or closes, so you will always be in the know. It will even send you an alert if the door is left open for too long. - SD Card Storage
You can use an SD card to store footage locally, making the optional extra cloud-saving subscription not as necessary. The camera comes with an SD card included.
Pros And Cons
As we have seen already, this camera has some great benefits. It has high recording resolution, local storage, and can even be used to control the door itself.
In terms of downsides, it does need to be connected to the internet at all times, and it may need to be physically reconfigured if it loses connection.
Arlo Pro 5S 2K Spotlight Camera
Our next camera option is the Arlo Pro 5S 2K Spotlight Camera. This one is a bit less specialized to be a garage camera specifically, but it can serve as a great option for this purpose.
About The Brand
Arlo is another top name in the home security camera market. Much like Eufy, they are known for their quality camera products that have many great features, and you are likely to see them mentioned a lot when researching home security cameras.
Key Features
- 2K HDR
The 2K recording resolution and HDR capabilities of this camera will allow for clear recording in many different lighting conditions. - Color Night Vision
Color night vision recording ensures you will be able to see what’s happening even at night time. - 160 Degree View
The fewer blind spots your camera has, the better. That’s why the wide 160-degree view of this camera is so welcomed, as it means you will have a better view of what’s going on. - Easy Wireless Setup
The camera has a wireless design, and the battery is long-lasting and rechargeable, meaning you won’t have to constantly be monitoring it.
It also includes dual-band wifi compatibility, so you can use it with your 2.4ghz or 5ghz setup.
Pros And Cons
This Arlo camera has everything you could ask for in a basic home camera setup for your garage. You can view the lear recording straight from your smartphone, you can see in the dark and you have an easy setup.
It is perhaps a bit more limited than some other options, as it mainly covers the basics. You will also need to sign up for the Arlo subscription in order to use extra features such as cloud saving. You will get a trial for this service included with your camera.
Alcidae Garager 2 Smart WiFi Garage Control
Next up, we have the Alcidae Garager 2 Smart Control Camera. This is a robust option from a lesser-known brand, but it does compensate with some great features.
About The Brand
Alcidae is not quite as common as Eufy or Arlo in terms of brand recognition, but a perusal of their Amazon product page will show you that they have an impressive range of different camera and surveillance products.
Next, we shall see some of the features that this brand offers us.
Key Features
- Control Garage Door
For added convenience, this camera also allows you to control the operation of your garage door straight from your smartphone. - Smart Alerts
The camera will not only alert you to motion but can also detect sounds such as dog barking and alarms. These activity alerts do not require a subscription. - 2 Way Audio And Night Vision
2-way audio is always a nice feature to have, as it has everyday uses as well as security ones. You can use it to deter potential thieves or communicate with guests and visitors at your garage door. - Optional Cloud Storage
Cloud storage is an available feature, but it will require a paid subscription after the free trial.
Pros And Cons
There are certainly some great features to this camera that make it a compelling option. The garage door controls, smart alerts, and night vision are all features that you would hope to have with any camera setup.
There are also a few downsides, unfortunately. The resolution is set at 1080p, which is certainly acceptable but lower than some other options on the list.
The camera is also not ideal for an outdoor setting and works better inside your garage. This model is wired, which may be a downside for people hoping for an easier installation process.
Asante GarageViewer
The final camera option we have for you is the Asante GarageViewer. This is a more basic option that nevertheless has some great features that we’re sure you’ll be interested in.
About The Brand
Much like the previous brand, this is a lesser-known one in the security camera bracket. Once again, you can see that the Amazon product page has an impressive range of products that shows they really know what they’re doing when it comes to producing security products.
Brand recognition isn’t anything, so we will now see whether this camera has the feature set needed to make it a great option.
Key Features
- IR Motion Sensor
Infrared motion sensors ensure that you will be able to detect and record movement in any light conditions. - Built-In Memory
The camera has built-in onboard storage, meaning you can store your footage locally without the need for a subscription. - Supports Alexa, IOS, and Android
You can connect this camera system to major SmartHome integrations such as Alexa, IOS, and Android. This makes it a lot more convenient and allows the system to fit into your existing SmartHome setup. - Customizable Light Show
One interesting feature that is unique to this camera is that you can customize a simple light and music show that will go off when you arrive home. It’s a fun extra feature that adds a novelty aspect to this camera.
Pros And Cons
While this is a more basic option, it does have some interesting features. We would say that the parity with major SmartHome setups, built-in memory, and customizable light and music show would be the major draws of this camera.
Unfortunately, it does also have its share of downsides. For starters, the resolution is set at 720p, which is rather low. It can also only be used indoors, limiting the effectiveness of the camera.
It is another wired option, which could again be a pro or a con depending on your preferences.
How To Set Up Security Camera In A Garage
The way you set up your security camera will depend on the camera itself, and most will come with detailed instructions. It will also depend on whether it’s wired or battery-powered, so this is something you should definitely confirm before choosing.
You should also consider the placement of your camera carefully to give you the best view possible.
Final Thoughts
There are many camera options to choose from, and we hope that this overview has helped you to gain a better understanding of what to look for. Any of the cameras included in this list would be a great option, so it’s up to you to check out the various features and decide which works best for you.
Whatever you end up choosing, we’re sure you will rest easier knowing that your garage and everything in it is that much more secure!