When thinking about the most innovative security camera systems, you might envision some enormously complicated system filled with codes, facial recognition software and a full-body scan — features you’ve seen on TV or in a movie.

In reality, you can purchase a pretty amazing security camera system for your home that does a fantastic job of capturing footage and helps you and your kids feel more safe and secure. Granted, they don’t involve remembering a series of codes and having to be fingerprinted, but 4K security cameras do include some of the most sophisticated features that money can buy.

Let’s start off by looking at some of these great features — which, by the way, are also pretty darn affordable — and then discuss their DIY options and what might be on the way in the future.

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From 4K and Color Night Vision to Wire-Free and More

If you are a fan of those “let’s look for ghosts and/or Bigfoot” shows on TV, you have seen plenty of grainy green night vision camera footage. Because of this, you may understandably think that most home security camera systems do the same thing and record not-so-great video. Thankfully, thanks to 4K IP camera systems from companies like Lorex Technology, you can get the highest level of clarity and detail in the footage; the advanced 8-megapixel image sensors have around four times the pixels as a 1080p HD security camera. What this means is that the cameras can capture more light, which means better color and contrast, as well as the ability to zoom in on objects without losing image quality.

Speaking of light, many of Lorex’s security camera systems now include a Color Night Vision feature, which means if you and your kids are relaxing on the couch at night and some bozo is walking up your driveway, the camera will capture great footage, from the color of his hair to the color of his car. They also offer a Diurnal Wire-Free security camera system; this means that you can install them wherever you want and not have to hire in a handyperson to wire them in.

How DIY Can Save You Money

In addition to boasting some impressive features, the latest and greatest cameras can also help you save money. For instance, you might have a friend who has a long-term contract with a security company. If the idea of being tied to one business for years on end is a major turn-off, take heed: you can buy your security camera system online and then install it yourself. They are 100 percent contract and hassle free. You buy the security cameras and own them forever — you don’t have to return them if you change your mind on a contract, because there isn’t one. And if you move someday, you can take the system with you. As a busy mom, this is a great feature — you know how expensive your adorable kids can be; it’s reassuring to know that you can help to keep your family and house safe while not breaking the bank.

What Is Coming in the Future?

While security camera systems have amazing features now, it is inevitable that they will improve even more over time. As Forbes notes, as more people work from home, surveillance cameras will become more common. In addition, smart home device makers will hopefully adopt a “platform approach” that will let your security camera system interoperate with a smart thermostat and other appliances, leading to energy conservation and other benefits.

Sophisticated and Affordable — a Great Combination

It is reassuring to know that you don’t have to shell out big bucks or commit to some insanely long contract to take advantage of the state-of-the-art home security features that are currently available. The newest cameras have plenty of bells and whistles, and can easily be ordered online and installed wherever you wish.