Security cameras are a typical everyday security feature. That’s because video monitoring is the easiest way to keep tabs on what’s happening around your property. However, there’s only so much information you can glean from a video recording. This begs the question, do security cameras have audio?
With technological advancement, security cameras can be your eyes on the ground. You can track activities in your home even when you’re not around. If cameras have audio, that would mean you have an extra layer of security. When you have cameras that record sound, you can keep your finger on the pulse of what’s happening on the premises.
In this article, we answer the question, “Do security cameras have audio?” We also look at your options and the potential benefits of adding audio to your security system.
Do Security Cameras Have Audio?
Security cameras with both video and audio recording capabilities do exist. There are several types of these cameras available on the market:
- Security cameras with add-on microphones. In the past, many security cameras with audio recording didn’t have this as an in-built feature. Instead, you have to add a mic to the camera via an external microphone input jack.
- Security cameras with in-built audio features. Modern cameras come with an in-built audio feature.
- IP audio surveillance cameras. This type of camera captures audio signals and stores them in the cloud. Basically, it’s a digital camera. It can send signals over cable or Wireless IP camera network connections. The audio recordings are stored in the network. This makes the data accessible through different digital devices.
- Analog audio surveillance cameras. Analog cameras with audio are traditional. They send the captured audio signals over cable to onsite DVRs. So you can only access the audio recordings through the DVR.
- Security camera with two-way audio. Two-way audio systems come with a built-in microphone and speaker. This enables you to communicate with people on the other end even if you’re not physically present.
Camera technology is continually improving. You may be wondering, “Why don’t all security cameras have audio?” It’s because there are some legal issues involved. Generally, there should be no problem if your security camera records audio in your home. It’s all part of your security measures. But, be sure to avoid installing security cameras with audio in places that come with the expectation of privacy, such as bathrooms.
Benefits of Audio Surveillance Cameras
Here are the top benefits associated with installing a security camera with audio recording.
Deters Criminals
Today there are many innovations in security camera technology. This ensures that the fight against crime is more effective. As of 2022, most security cameras with audio allow for two-way communication. Once you’re alerted to a specific suspicious sound, such as the sound of a window breaking, you can issue a warning.
This should be enough to stop the intruder in their tracks. Criminals count on stealth. So, once they know they have been seen, they rarely ever proceed with their nefarious actions. This is especially so if you use the audio feature to announce that the police are on their way. Some cameras even come with in-built sirens to scare off intruders and alert people nearby.
Improves Security
CCTV cameras with enabled voice recording help to boost security. That’s because you now have both eyes and ears on the ground. You can even receive alerts wherever you’re, so your home is always protected.
Also, suppose you capture audio that alerts you to the possibility of criminal activity. Then, you can quickly take steps to prevent said activity from happening. As long as you stick to quality camera solutions, you can detect sound across various decibels. Also, you’ll be able to capture sound from several feet away, which helps expand the reach of your security measures.
The addition of the right security features can even do wonders for your home insurance costs. Generally, insurance companies charge lower premiums if they believe the risk is low. This potentially makes audio surveillance cameras a cost-effective solution with a great ROI.
Gives You The Bigger Picture
When your security monitoring system doesn’t include video, you don’t have all the facts on hand. For instance, you may notice some individuals talking to each other and acting suspiciously outside your door. But, without sound, it isn’t easy to gauge what they are up to.
Once you add sound, the picture becomes complete. No matter how stealthy intruders are, it’s very difficult to mask sounds. It’s not only about intruders. Some situations may involve visitors and residents of your home. During these situations, listening to audio recordings gives you the full details of the story. That way, you can make wiser decisions.
Enhances Surveillance Capabilities
Video surveillance is indeed the mainstay of any security monitoring system. However, adding audio adds a valuable layer of security. When it comes to your home’s protection, there’s no such thing as too much security.
Overall, security cameras with audio offer enhanced surveillance capabilities. They help prevent residential burglary by warning off intruders. Modern homes need modern security features. This is necessary because burglars and criminals work hard to beat outdated security cameras. A security camera with audio enables you to stay one step ahead. This is better than reacting only after you’ve been robbed.
Security Cameras With Audio: What Are Your Options?
Before investing in an audio surveillance camera, it’s important to know that not all cameras are made equal. So besides wondering do security cameras have audio, you also need to ask which camera is right for you.
Ideally, you need the best option that offers quality audio recording. To help you find the best security cameras with audio, we have narrowed it down to a few options.
Alarm.com
The ADC-V523 W-Fi camera is specialized for indoor use, helping to keep the contents of your home safe. Like most modern audio surveillance cameras, it has two-way audio for easy communication with anyone in the vicinity of the camera. Combined with the 117-degree field of view, you’ll have better control over your security monitoring.
For enhanced security, the camera also has 1080p HD resolution, which makes for quality video recordings. The IR night vision allows for surveillance even in total darkness.
Wyze Camera v3
Home security has never been better with the Wyze Cam with wired connectivity. It’s suitable for indoor and outdoor use. Whatever the environment you place it in, the Wyze Cam is sure to perform well. It comes with two-way audio, and it’s also compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, and IFTTT. The camera starts recording as soon as it detects motion or sound.
You’ll also receive alerts straight to your phone. If you want, you can even opt for 24/7 continuous recording. All you need to do is insert a 32GB MicroSD card. The Wyze Cam is certainly one of the most versatile audio surveillance solutions currently on the market. Other features like color night vision help to cement the deal.
Nest Cam
The Nest Cam is one of the smartest security cameras with audio. It fits right in at any strategic place outdoors or indoors. The camera can distinguish between people, vehicles, and animals. This ensures that you’ll only receive alerts that matter. In addition, it’s battery-powered, easy to install, and weather resistant.
And, of course, the Nest Cam has a “two-way” talk feature that connects you with the people close to the camera. That means you can easily communicate with intruders, delivery persons, and visitors via the in-built speaker and mic. Overall, this is a sound camera that you can rely on, regardless of whether it’s in your backyard or living room.
SimpliSafe
If you’re in the market for a robust outdoor camera with audio, then look no further than the SimpliSafe outdoor wireless camera. It’s one of the best options technology-wise because of the two-way audio. That means you can communicate with whoever is at the other end. If it’s an intruder, you can warn them off and instantly deter them from proceeding further with their actions.
What’s more, if your burglary sensors are triggered, the camera has a built-in siren that will sound the alarm. There are extra features, such as high-definition video and night vision. That means you can truly expect the best security with this audio camera.
Final Word On Security Cameras With Audio
When you have valuable assets to protect, it’s important to have proactive instead of reactive security measures. If you have ever asked, “Do security cameras have audio?”, this is an excellent question that shows you’re looking for ways to beef up on security.
Now that you’re aware of the available options, you can take the next steps and invest in a quality audio surveillance system. The good news is you’re already in the right place. That’s because, at ONIT Home, we have secured a solid reputation as a reliable and trusted provider of smart home technology.
You can depend on our solutions to meet all your needs. Get in touch with us online or give us a call right now at 1-833-433-0331 and ask about your audio surveillance camera options. Our home security experts will be happy to help!