Whether it’s a top law firm or a lemonade stand, businesses are vulnerable to security threats. But requirements for business security cameras differ depending on the scale of the business.
Read on to find out what you need to know to protect small businesses, including the best in store security cameras.
Table of Contents
Can I Put Security Cameras in My Business?
Security cameras should be installed in business places. Whether the business is big or small, customer-facing or not, business security cameras are essential to making a workplace safe and secure.
That being said, the number of security cameras needed for a business will differ depending on the scale of it. Below, check out the best security cameras for small businesses.
Best Security Cameras for Small Business
Small businesses don’t need a large number of surveillance cameras, because the space doesn’t require it. Instead, optimizing the vantage point is important.
Also, because small businesses have less to spend, affordable security cameras are more suitable for small businesses, as are DIY options (see what you can do with AlfredCamera below).
AlfredCamera (App)
Best small business security camera system
Available on the App Store and Play Store. Free, with the option for Premium.
Pros
- Can be installed on phones, tablets, and used on the web
- Unlimited number of devices at no extra cost
- Push notifications are fast and responsive
Cons
- Relies on the hardware of the device it’s installed on
- No infrared night vision
For smaller businesses, like those run from home, budgets usually aren’t flexible enough for professional security camera systems, which are eye-wateringly expensive. AlfredCamera lets users combine an unlimited number of devices, including old phones, and transforms them into feature rich security cameras at no cost.
DIY surveillance systems with the AlfredCamera app are a breeze to set up. It’s the most affordable way to do business security, facilitating the protection of small businesses so you can get on with work, worry free.
Alfred caught an intruder in my shed, I was alerted immediately and if not for Alfred I could have lost so much it been my shop and place of business. [sic]
Key specifications
- Live feeds
- Motion detection
- Continuous recording
- Push notifications
- Low-light mode
- Two-way audio
- 7-day free cloud storage
AlfredCam
Best wireless security cameras for small business
Available on AlfredCamera. $29.99.
Pros
- Can be used alongside any other Alfred compatible devices
- Infrared night vision is clear and balanced
- microSD support allows for both local and cloud based storage
Cons
- Indoor monitoring only
- No voice assistant support
AlfredCam is the first hardware security camera designed for use with the AlfredCamera app. While mobiles, tablets, and computers are great for creating a DIY security system, AlfredCam adds excellent infrared night vision and 1080p HD video resolution to the mix, allowing users to expand their DIY security camera systems.
AlfredCam plugs in via a USB and supports microSD card storage, so it’s easy to set up for 24/7 recording in a small business place.
Key specifications
- 1080p HD
- Motion detection
- Continuous recording
- microSD support
- Infrared night vision
- Two-way audio
- Built-in siren
AlfredCam Plus
Best outdoor security camera system for business
Available on AlfredCamera and Amazon. From $39.99.
Pros
- IP65 weatherproof for warehouse and outdoor monitoring
- Super affordable
- Wide range of mounting options included
Cons
- No voice assistant support
AlfredCam Plus is a brilliant outdoor security camera system for business, combining affordability and more advanced features for superior surveillance. With tons of mounting options, it’s a breeze to set up inside or out. The IP65 rating means you can safely monitor small warehouses, parking lots, and outside office spaces.
2K video, motion detection, and infrared night vision are all here, and a 64 GB microSD card is included for 24/7 continuous recording of the business place.
Key Specifications
- 2K QHD video
- 130-degree field of view
- Two-way audio
- 64 GB microSD card included
- Infrared night vision
- Built-in siren
- IP65 weatherproof
- Unlimited devices per account
Set Up DIY Security System for Your Small Business With AlfredCamera
Many security camera systems cost upwards of $1000 upfront. There’s also the cost of cloud storage, professional monitoring, and maintenance to consider.
In other words, professional security systems aren’t an option for most small businesses because they are so expensive.
The good news is that DIY business security systems are powerful enough for legitimate surveillance in small businesses.
Combine AlfredCam and AlfredCam Plus with phones, tablets, and even webcams to quickly and affordably assemble a super effective security system suitable for smaller scale business operations.
Pop up stores, for example, benefit greatly from surveillance. Stock is at risk of being stolen, so continuous recording is a must. But professional systems aren’t viable options for temporary businesses.
AlfredCamera makes it easy to assemble several security cameras to keep watch over stock, staff, and customers without making a dent in the budget. Likewise, businesses at home are easy to monitor from your phone or desktop with AlfredCamera and WebViewer.
An unlimited number of camera devices can be paired to the AlfredCamera app at no additional cost, so users can add as many devices as they need. Not convinced? Here’s why you need security cameras for your business.
How much does it cost to install security cameras for business?
Business security camera installation costs upwards of $1000 upfront. Monthly subscriptions for professional monitoring, cloud storage, and maintenance significantly increase costs in the long run.
The costs of installing security cameras for business is given as a unique quote. The more camera units and services, the higher the cost.
A security system for a medium scale business therefore costs several thousand dollars.
If you’re curious about the costs associated with home security systems, we’ve prepared a guide on monthly fees and installation costs.
FAQ
What security cameras do professionals use?
Medium-to-large scale businesses should install a full security system. Companies like ADT provide such services. Small business owners, on the other hand, can consider security camera options without subscription and DIY systems, like AlfredCamera.
Which CCTV camera is best for offices?
CCTV provided by a company like ADT or SimpliSafe is best for offices, since subscription fees cover fixes, replacement equipment, and full access to professional monitoring services.
Which security camera is best for shops?
AlfredCam is one of the best security cameras for shops and independent stores, like grocers and bakeries.
Stores with extensive stock or particularly expensive items, on the other hand, require a comprehensive security system to maintain safety, as well as additional measures like plexiglass casing.
Which is better: NVR or DVR?
The need for NVR (network video recorder) or DVR (digital video recorder) depends on the camera it’s being used with. NVRs are used for IP cameras, while DVRs are used for analog cameras.
Find out everything you need to know about NVR and DVR.
Conclusion
All businesses have a responsibility to protect their staff, customers, and products.
Business security cameras are essential to deterring and catching theft, thereby minimizing losses and helping protect the business.
Recommended reading: How Many Security Cameras Do I Need for My Business?