Comparing Security Cameras for Your Long Beach Rental

Of course, installing security cameras comes with the responsibility of respecting your tenant’s privacy. All security cameras should be outside and facing entry point locations. They should not be pointing into any windows and they should definitely not be inside the rental. Additionally, you should be honest and upfront with your tenants about any security cameras. Informed consent is important and will ensure that tenants feel comfortable on your property. If your tenants have any concerns, explain to them that the security cameras are for their safety. 

With that being said, below are the most popular and reliable security cameras available for your Long Beach rental. 

Ring security cameras are best known for their video doorbells that activate in the presence of any activity at the front door. They not only allow you to see and hear activity at the front door, but they also allow you to speak to any visitors. Additionally, Ring is completely waterproof and can connect to Amazon Echo devices. 

Video doorbells come in battery-powered or wired models. The choice of model comes down mainly to personal preference. Wired models are cheaper, starting at $59.99 whereas battery-powered models start at $99.99. Battery-powered models are easier to install since they do not require any electrical connection, but they do require minimal charging, usually every six months to a year. 

For areas other than the front door, such as the back door, fence gate, or driveway, Ring offers security cameras that you can easily mount to the wall. Similar to the video doorbells, they come in battery-powered or wired models. However, unlike the video doorbells, both models are priced the same at $99.99. 

The Ring app gives you easy access to all your security cameras, showing you a live feed and alerting you of any activity. For an added price of $3 a month (or $30 a year), the Ring app can also record at any time, giving you a video record of any suspicious activity. 

Another major security camera brand is Arlo. Unlike Ring, Arlo specializes in wireless, battery-powered cameras and does not offer any wired outdoor models. 

The essential Arlo security cameras cost $129.99, which is certainly an upcharge from Ring’s security cameras. Nevertheless, Arlo has all the same benefits as Ring, including the ability to speak to any visitors. 

One benefit exclusive to Arlo is that video recording is free of charge and does not require a monthly subscription. If Arlo detects any activity, the app will alert you and take a ten-second recording. Another sole benefit of Arlo is that their security cameras can connect not only to Amazon Echo devices, but also Google Nest and Apple HomeKit.  

As for video doorbells, Arlo has recently released their own lineup of wired and battery-powered models. Both are significantly more expensive than Ring, priced at $149.99 and $199.99 respectively. A unique feature of Arlo’s video doorbells is their built-in siren, which you can easily sound using the app to scare any potential intruders. 

There are many factors to consider when deciding on security cameras for your Long Beach rental. Though Arlo security cameras are more expensive, they have added benefits that Ring security cameras do not, such as a built-in siren for the video doorbell, free recording, and connectivity for both Google Nest and Apple HomeKit. Ultimately, these added benefits can outweigh the higher cost. Nevertheless, if you are looking for a cheaper option and do not mind giving up a few extra features, Ring is the best choice for you. 

Finding and installing security cameras for your Long Beach rental can be a lengthy process, but the added safety benefits and peace of mind are worth it. For more help regarding security cameras and other means of protection, we invite you to call us today at (562) 888-0247, or you can fill out our Owner Application online.