Spec me a home security system upgrade

[shifty_uk]

Wasn't sure which section to put this in, audi/visual hardware, home improvements... Please move if necessary

Moved into my new house a couple of weeks ago, just getting around to thinking about the various jobs that'll need undertaken over the next couple of months. One thing on my mind is upgrading the security system.

There's currently 3 (circa 20+ year old) cameras dotted around the property. An old(pre-flat screen) monitor in the garage, a monitor in the kitchen(that doesn't work) and an intercom unit near the front door with a screen on it that looks like something out of an 80s sci-fi movie. The intercom works by enabling the camera on gate when the bell is rang.

Here's an example of the hardware(not sure which decade this came from!):

So, in my mind, 3 cameras should be sufficient. The monitor in the kitchen is fine but not currently linked to anything so I'll need to figure out what's going on there.

I'd also like a new door/gate bell.

I'm sure there must be systems on the market now that link up to an app on your phone for checking the place when you're out?

I've no idea where to begin...Any thoughts welcome

 

[CHokKA]

I’ve got Blink wireless cameras at home. You arm them when you leave the house and motion triggers them. When triggered, the phone app notifies you of the alert and you can watch the video. The recording time can be customised, as well as the trigger sensitivity of the motion sensor. You can also watch the feed of any camera through the app when you like, although it does diminish battery life.

They’re on Amazon as they now own the company that makes them. They’re also bringing out a doorbell that’ll be cheaper than the Ring video doorbell. That’s meant to be coming out later this year.

For outside, you’ll want the black XT cameras. They’re waterproof and have proper night vision. The white normal cameras are meant for indoor use. They have a light that illuminates the area covered at night.

All-in-all, they’re a very reasonable solution price wise and they do everything I need them to do. I paid £140 for two black XT cameras in the most recent Prime Day sale. I’m not sure what they’re at now, probably about £200 but it’s still worth it!

 

[coolsurfer]

Nest Cam IQ?

 

[Hyburnate]

Depends what you're after really.

Hik or Dahua for cameras.
Ring/Nest Doorbell or something like Videx for an intercom.

 

[Haze]

Buy a dog