360-Degree Security Cameras

360-degree cameras are not new technology. However, the technology that makes the panoramic video they produce look good is. Omnidirectional, 360-degree HD surveillance video wasn’t invented until 2013 and hasn’t been available to purchase until recently. Since then, it’s been a game-changer for home security surveillance.

Have you ever played one of those games where you have to avoid the camera that rotates back and forth? Well, with a 360-degree surveillance camera, a would-be home invader has the same experience.

Types of 360 cameras

There are a few key factors to consider when you’re shopping for a 360 camera. While multi-lensed 360 cameras are available, they are generally too expensive for residential consumers. That’s why the newer single-lensed panoramic cameras are growing in popularity.

What makes these cameras work is high-resolution video recording. If you tried to stretch 360 degrees of video footage over only one megapixel, for example, you would get almost no detail. Today, however, cameras can record at 20 megapixels or higher, which is more than enough resolution to capture everything happening within the camera’s view.

Essentially, you can use a computer algorithm to flatten out the warped 360 footage and zoom into the part of the video you need to see.

Benefits of a 360-degree camera

Because these cameras only use one lens or sensor, the video quality is usually more consistent than cameras that don’t. Other cameras typically have to focus on specific objects and adjust to the lighting. These adjustments can cause the camera to lose detail in some situations. This also means that the 360-degree cameras have fewer moving parts than other cameras. That makes them extremely reliable for home security.

Other advantages of 360-degree cameras include ultra-wide coverage and lower overall cost. Typically, panoramic cameras will also come with the usual security camera features, such as night vision, motion detection, and two-way communications. Be sure yours does before you make a purchase.

Best 360-degree security cameras

Wondering which 360 camera to purchase for the best home security? We’ve put together a list of quality panoramic security cameras you can use for your home.

Guardzilla 360

The Guardzilla 360 has a sleek, compact design, and both outdoor and indoor options. What we love about this camera is its simplicity in setting up. You just place it where you want it and let it do its job. However, the Guardzilla 360 is not very mobile app friendly, so keep this in mind if you’re going to use your smartphone to control it and view footage.

Vivotek FE8191

The Vivotek FE8191 is a panoramic camera with a 12-megapixel CMOS sensor. It also has IR sensors for day and night recording and does an excellent job reducing noise in low light conditions. The only thing it lacks is motion detection. Without motion detection, you will need substantial storage space to keep this camera running all the time.

Want even more solid home security? Consider getting professionally monitored security cameras. Obtain a free quote with Brinks Home™.

Allison Clark is a senior writer for Brinks Home. She enjoys educating others on the benefits of smart home security and using technology to simplify everyday life.