Ready-to-Go Surveillance Camera Systems

When shopping for surveillance camera systems, the market offers plenty of pre-made kits. But picking the right one? That takes a bit of know-how. Let’s dive into what you need to check before buying.


Key Features to Consider

  1. Camera Resolution
    Most camera kits today offer enough resolution for typical setups like apartments, homes, or vacation properties. Generally, anything over 400 TVL will work fine for most needs.

The standard these days is 500–600 TVL, which provides clear footage. So don’t sweat too much over this spec unless you’re looking for something ultra-high definition.


  1. Focal Length
    This determines the camera’s field of view and how much detail it captures at different distances.
    One thing to note: in pre-made kits, all the cameras usually have the same focal length. This can be limiting if you need a mix of wide-angle and zoomed-in views.

  1. Other Specs
    Depending on where you’ll install the cameras, additional features like light sensitivity, automatic gain control (AGC), auto-iris, or backlight compensation can matter. These vary based on the model and use case, so check the product details to see what’s included.

  1. DVR Compatibility
    The digital video recorder (DVR) included in the kit should match the cameras’ resolution and recording specs.
    If you plan to access the system remotely, make sure the DVR supports internet connectivity.

Buying Camera-Only Kits

Sometimes, you’ll come across camera-only kits without a DVR or other equipment. While these may seem budget-friendly, they’re often not the best deal unless you need multiple identical cameras.

Here’s how it breaks down:

  • Single-use setups: For small spaces like apartments or outdoor patios, buying a set of identical cameras (e.g., all indoor or all outdoor) can work well.
  • Mixed setups: For larger properties, like a house with both indoor and outdoor spaces, you’ll need a mix of camera types. Some kits come with a balanced mix (e.g., 50% indoor, 50% outdoor), which can save you money and hassle.

If you’re going wireless, go for a kit that includes both cameras and a receiver or DVR. This ensures compatibility and makes setup much easier.


What’s in a Complete Kit?

Most kits include the essentials, but here are a few things to double-check:

  • Power Supply: Make sure a power adapter is included for the cameras. If not, you’ll need to buy one separately.
  • Hard Drive: DVRs in kits usually don’t come with hard drives. That’s normal—you’ll need to purchase one separately based on your storage needs.
  • Cables and Connectors: Kits often include pre-measured cables. If they’re longer than you need, great—you can coil the excess neatly. If they’re too short, you’ll need to buy additional cables and connectors to hook everything up.

Why Go with a Pre-Made Kit?

For those on a budget, pre-made surveillance kits can be a great option. They’re designed to work right out of the box, saving you the headache of matching cameras, DVRs, and accessories. As long as you pick a kit that matches your space and needs, it’s an affordable and reliable way to set up video security.