[1] Top Features of a Single Security Camera with Monitor
Similar single security cameras with monitor may look the same, but they have a few features that distinguish one from the other.
However, it’s safe to say that most of them have these five main features with varying specs.
Touchscreen LCD Monitor
The standard size of LCD monitors that come with single security camera kits is 7 inches.
It’s just the right size to carry around for easy monitoring.
Since they are touchscreen, they’re essentially portable tablets that are easy to operate as there’s no need for a mouse or long cables.
Some security camera companies understand the need for a bigger receiver so that users can have a better view of what’s being monitored and so some brands offer 9-inch and 12-inch versions.
Motion Detection Sensor
A single security camera may not be an all-seeing camera due to its limited coverage, but it does attempt to make up for it with motion detection sensor.
What it does is to detect movements and trigger the notification system to alert owners.
Smarter cameras can detect human motion and distinguish it from other movements like changes in light, shadows, wind, insect movements, and other non-human motion.
This can greatly reduce the frequency of false alarms.
Night Vision
Night vision has become a standard feature among single security cameras, whether entry-level or high-end units.
It just makes perfect sense because many burglaries take place at night when burglars and intruders think they are invisible in the darkness.
Advanced night vision technology enables users to see footage clearly and in color.
Users can make out the details of intruders, animals, or moving objects as if they are seeing things in broad daylight.
Local Storage
Most single security cameras support local storage through microSD or TransFlash card.
The downside to this is that the storage capacity is quite limited.
Some low-cost brands can only support 32GB storage while the newer camera models allow larger local storage space of up to 128GB.
Storage capacity will depend on factors like recording, playback, and motion detection.
In high foot traffic areas, the camera can easily use up the memory which will prompt users to replace the microSD card.
Some security cameras have multiple storage options which support NVR recording and cloud storage.
Two-Way Communication
Built-in speakers and microphones allow for an intercom-style communication so it’s easy to talk to the person on the other end.
It may also be used as a warning system to deter intruders or unwanted guests.
[2] Pros and Cons
Single security cameras with monitors target consumers who want a camera that’s essentially plug and play and can work independently.
Ironically, some of the features that they are known for can also be a disadvantage.
Let’s look at the pros and cons to see where they excel and where they fall short of expectations.
Pros
- Wide viewing angle – Single security cameras have a wide Field of View (FOV) to cover larger areas and properties.
- Since only one camera is assigned to a certain spot, it maximizes the area it can cover.
- Typically, it has an FOV of at least 100 degrees horizontally and 50 degrees vertically.
- There are single cameras that have an extremely wide viewing angle at 130 degrees.
- Specific targets – The great thing about single security cameras is that they can also be used to zero in on specific targets.
- This way, you can monitor specific areas or small rooms with more details.
- Easy installation and setup – The cameras under this category are mostly plug and play.
- Installation and setup only take minutes and the camera is ready to go out of the box.
- The camera and monitor interact and communicate wirelessly so there are no cables or hardwiring involved.
- The fast setup is a plus for users who want a no-frills security system.
- Local storage option – With support for microSD cards, users don’t have to pay for cloud storage subscription which can get expensive over time.
- The beauty of having microSD card is that when it uses up its full capacity, the card will overwrite old data and replace it with new footage.
- This way, you don’t have to constantly worry about having full memory space.
- This is ideal if you don’t need to keep data for archiving purposes.
- Portable screen/receiver – The monitor that comes with a single security camera is portable so you don’t have to stay in one place to monitor events.
- They work like touchscreen tablets that have an intuitive interface so they’re easy to navigate.
- Lower price point – Single security cameras are inexpensive.
- Even small businesses on a budget can afford to install one.
- This enables you to put a security system in place without breaking the bank.
Cons
- Limited coverage – Even with a wide viewing angle, a single camera cannot match the coverage that multiple camera systems provide.
- It’s just focused on one section of the house or the property so if there is an intruder in other areas, he won’t be captured on cam.
- Limited storage space – Unless you are subscribed to a cloud-based storage service, your single security camera can only keep a limited number of videos depending on the storage capacity of the microSD card.
- If you need to keep footage for six months or more, you’d have to replace the card once it gets full.
- This can be inconvenient and can get expensive over time.
- Prone to wireless systems problems – Single security cameras with monitors typically operate under wireless systems.
- This means they need a specific frequency to send signals to the receivers.
- The downside here is that there may be interruptions in frequencies which affect video quality and may cause distortions and delays in transmissions.
[3] FAQs
[*] Where is it best to position a security camera?
The best place to position your single security camera would depend on the following factors:
- Distance to the DVR (if supported) or base station.
- Environmental conditions (weather and exposure to elements)
- Lighting conditions (low-light, no-light, reflection or glare)
- Targeted monitoring areas
Here are some of the best practices when positioning a security camera:
- Mount your camera at an elevated position so that it would be difficult for vandals and burglars to reach.
- Determine the camera’s Field of View and position the camera in locations that can cover as much area as possible so that the camera can capture people entering and leaving the premises.
- For front door security, install the camera where the roof meets the wall to protect the camera from the elements like dust, rain, water, or snow.
- Burglars are more likely to enter the front or back door so installing the camera in these locations is ideal.
- Install the camera above the door at a slight angle so you can see people who are approaching the front porch.
- Install cameras in areas with high foot traffic like entry and exit points.
- Avoid pointing cameras towards a light source to avoid glare and reflection.
- Ideal locations are next to rooms and windows which can be entry points for intruders.
- Avoid positioning cameras in areas where electrical interference is expected to occur.
[*] Do security cameras work through a window?
The simple answer is yes, security cameras can work through glass windows, but it is not without its problems.
The window glare can cause videos and images to appear washed out during live stream or playback.
While the camera may work fine during the day, it may have potential problems at night due to the presence of infrared LEDs, spotlights, and ambient lights.
This is especially true for cameras with night vision features.
Cameras with built-in PIR motion sensor might not work because glass windows are insulated which limits the heat that the sensor can detect.
It will render your camera’s motion detection system useless.
However, if your camera uses changes in pixels to detect motion, then it can function through a glass window without problems.
[*] What is the micro SD with the largest capacity on Amazon?
The microSD with the largest storage capacity available on Amazon is SanDisk’s one terabyte (1TB) Extreme microSDXC.
While this is a massive storage, not all single security cameras support 1TB.
They are not designed to work with high-capacity microSD cards. Many security cameras can only support up to 128GB.
[*] What factors might affect how well a camera connects to its base?
No matter how robust your single security camera is, there’s no telling if they would hold up well when exposed to the elements.
Weather is a factor that might affect how securely your camera connects to its base.
Snow, rain, wind, or dust can contribute to wear and tear.
[*] Can you adjust the sensitivity of the motion detection function on these cameras?
It would depend on the brand and the model of the single security camera.
In general, security cameras that use PIR motion detection enables users to adjust the sensitivity levels within the app so that only more pronounced motions can trigger the sensor.
This prevents constant false alarm notifications.
[*] What is the difference between a motion detection camera and a CVR camera?
A camera that supports continuous video recording (CVR) allows you to record all activities 24/7.
CVR-enabled security cameras generally use NVR (Network Video Recorder) or DVR (Digital Video Recorder) because they have large-capacity HDD to store the footage for archiving.
A motion detection camera, on the other hand, only starts recording when it detects motion.
So, while you can view real-time footage, the camera will only record activities when the sensor is triggered by real movements.
This allows the camera system to conserve storage space, especially when local storage is limited.
Users generally pay extra for cloud-storage subscription plans to store recorded footage.
[4] Biggest Brands
There are not a lot of brands carrying single security camera with monitors, but three of the biggest brands are Defender , Tonton, and Lonnky.
Defender
Defender is part of Circus World Displays (CWD) Ltd., which is based in Ontario, Canada.
The parent company was established in 1961 but Defender-USA was launched in 2008.
The Defender brand targets the American market offering a wide range of products under three major categories: IP cameras, wireless security cameras, and camera peripherals and accessories.
Tonton
Tonton Security was established in 2012.
The company, which has a 12,000 m2 facility in Guangdong, China, specializes in video surveillance systems classified under these categories: NVR, DVR, security cameras, digital wireless system, and intercom system.
Lonnky
Lonnky is the brand name for the security camera products from Zhongshan Lonnky Electronics Co., Ltd. In China.
The company is a relatively new player in the American and European markets having been registered only in 2017-2018.
The Lonnky brand carries a diverse product line that includes single security cameras, multiple security camera systems, Wi-Fi outdoor cameras, multiple channel DVR, and related camera accessories.
Bechol 1080P Wireless Security Camera System
Bechol is the full-HD security system with long-distance transmission.
It’s safe to say that the signal is strong in this one.
Out of the Box
The kit comes with a 9-inch LCD touchscreen monitor with 1080p resolution.
Design-wise, the camera’s vertical orientation and antenna make it look like it is inverted.
Of course, this does not affect performance, but it looks too strange that it may attract unnecessary attention.
Key Features
This wireless single-camera with monitor captures and records activities through a network video recorder (NVR) system.
The touchscreen LCD monitor serves as the receiver.
There’s no need to use mouse or cables to connect to the camera. It’s pretty much plug and play so setting it up is painless.
The camera can be as far as 985 feet from the monitor and it will still get a signal.
This does not guarantee an uninterrupted transmission if used outdoors where there are buildings, trees, and infrastructure that could cause interference.
Battery life can last for 180 days if constantly on standby mode.
However, if the camera is placed on high-footfall areas, the battery will deplete faster because of the highly sensitive PIR motion detection sensor.
Every time motion is detected, the system sends a push notification to the phone via the app.
To avoid false alarms, simply adjust the sensitivity settings.
With a bigger monitor, you’ll know straight away who you are interacting with using the two-way intercom.
The 110-degree view angle is great for both indoor and outdoor surveillance but may have more blind spots when used outdoors.
Local storage is supported through TransFlash and MicroSD which port to the NVR monitor.
The Verdict
Bechol is a robust single security camera with monitor that is ideal for farms, ranches, parking spaces, and other open areas.
CasaCam VS1001[4.5 | 200]
CasaCam VS1001 shines bright with its blinding motion lights that not only illuminate in dark areas but also trigger video recording and push messaging.
Out of the Box
This camera has an intimidating black matte finish and a PIR sensor attached under the unit.
It comes with a 7-inch touchscreen LCD monitor and the standard accoutrements—battery, charger, cables, power adapters, mounting screws—plus an 8GB memory card for local storage.
Key Features
CasaCam is a DVR camera with a user-friendly interface.
It’s virtually plug and play and ready to go out of the box.
The 7-inch monitor doesn’t take up too much space and is more portable than a standard LCD monitor.
Wireless range maxes out at 1000 feet and night vision at 100 feet.
With smart motion detection, this weatherproof camera activates the spotlight with 500 lumens LED lights which will catch intruders unawares.
CasaCam is a complete security system that does not require an internet connection to view live stream, listen to audio, talk on the two-way intercom, or control the light settings.
You can play recorded videos even without Wi-Fi. However, if you want to use the app for remote access, the monitor must be connected to a router via Ethernet cable.
The spotlight, night vision, and motion detection features work flawlessly together.
And with 2x digital zoom, faces and objects are easily recognizable and reduces guesswork.
The Verdict
CasaCam is the single camera security system ideal for users who want no-frills setup but offers a robust surveillance system at home.
Defender PhoenixM2 Wireless Security System [3.9 |355]
Defender PhoenixM2 is a plug and play security system with an old-school design but modern functionality.
Out of the Box
Design-wise, the camera is reminiscent of traffic cameras mounted along highways and major roads.
It has an old-school vibe to it, but the features are definitely twenty-first century.
It comes with a 7-inch monitor and 8GB SD card for local storage.
Key Features
The camera and the monitor communicate with each other without the need for an internet connection.
Signal transmission is clear and uninterrupted for up to 450 feet away.
The coverage is great for both indoor and outdoor use.
Long-range night vision maxes out at 40 feet in complete darkness.
It’s quite limited in coverage but good enough for its purpose.
It has flexible recording options that allow you to record continuously or only when the camera detects activities.
You can also schedule recording at specific times of the day.
Local storage is supported though the 8GB SD card included in the package.
This is equivalent to about 350 minutes of footage.
If this is not enough, you can use 128GB for more storage space.
With the built-in microphone and speakers, two-way communication is supported.
You can speak with people on the other of the screen or just listen to the sounds that the mic picks up.
It’s a great way to deter intruders or spy on unwanted guests.
The Verdict
Defender PhoenixM2 has standard features that may not impress a lot of people, but it delivers on its promises.
It’s ideal for users who want a single security camera with monitor that’s ready to go straight out of the box.
Lonnky 1080p camera system [4.5 | 2]
Lonnky 1080p is a wireless security camera that combines NVR and true plug and play system, which allows new users to set it up by themselves.
Out of the Box
The Lonnky camera has quite a generic look with its “boxy” bullet design.
It comes with a 7-inch tablet-like touchscreen LCD monitor that does not require an internet or Wi-Fi connection for it to work.
A 32GB SD card is included for local storage option.
Key Features
This 1080p HD camera takes away the complexity of setting up an NVR security system.
It connects the camera and the NVR monitor wirelessly, so you don’t have to deal with cables and wirings.
Since it operates wirelessly, it is not hampered by the location of the power supply.
The monitor can be placed anywhere in the house.
Alternatively, remote viewing is enabled via the app but it needs a router for it to work.
With an impressive IP66 rating, Lonnky is built for harsh weather conditions and can withstand rain, dust, and other elements when used outdoors.
Motion detection triggers mobile notification so you can immediately see what’s happening around the property.
What’s more, it has a pre-recording function that shows you the activities prior to the time the motion was detected, so you’ll have a better picture of what had transpired.
Two-way audio capability allows you to speak to the person on the other end.
Audio quality is better than expected so you can listen in on conversations.
The downside is that the camera does not record continuously.
It only records when motion is detected to save precious storage space.
MicroSD can be upgraded up to 128GB for extra storage.
Night vision allows you to see as far as 80 feet in low-light conditions or complete darkness.
This is a great coverage and works seamlessly with the PIR sensor.
The Verdict
Lonnky is a single security camera designed for users who want the robustness of an NVR system but with the simplicity of a plug and play device.
Wandwoo1080p Outdoor Cameras [4.2| 26]
Wandwoo may look like it’s built for indoors but this camera works just as well outdoors.
It can compete with its more expensive NVR counterparts.
Out of the Box
This bullet camera comes with a 7-inch touchscreen monitor, adaptors, 32GB SD card, and not much else.
Wandwoo is a small bullet camera that weighs only 2.8 pounds but it does have heavyweight features.
Key Features
Wandwoo’s mini NVR system delivers clear and crisp 1080p HD footage even in dark areas via the night mode feature.
Motion can be detected for up to 30 feet with a field of view of 72 degrees.
Local storage is supported, hence, the inclusion of a 32GB TF card.
If this is not enough, you can upgrade to 126GB max.
Alternatively, you can watch video playback through its IP Pro3 / Eseecloud 4 app for free.
You can also back up your video recording through USB.
The downside in using this camera is that it does not run on a rechargeable battery so it’s reliant on DC power supply.
So it can’t be used in areas where there’s no power source. It limits the areas where the camera can be set up.
The Verdict
Wandwoo is the single security camera ideal for users who want to monitor nannies, visitors, or pets at home.
Tonton Portable Wireless Camera [4.2 | 36]
Tonton takes pride in its hybrid plug and play NVR camera kit and it has a good reason to.
With all the features it has, it could very well be the Swiss Army knife of single security cameras.
Out of the Box
The Tonton camera looks like a lite version of bulky commercial-grade security cameras.
The funny thing is that it seems to overcompensate for the lack of heft by having an extra-long antenna.
The NVR kit includes the 7-inch touchscreen monitor, adapters, and camera mount.
It comes with a 32GB SD card.
Key Features
This weatherproof 1080p camera is a complete NVR system that does not require network cables or a router.
The camera and the monitor communicate through wireless infrastructure.
It’s virtually a plug and play system where you just turn the power on and leave it to do its job.
With the camera’s sturdy metal casing and IP66 rating, it could withstand the harsh outdoor conditions.
Its vandal-proof wire protection adds a level of security when the camera is used outdoors.
Its smart low-light detection system automatically activates night vision with a field of view of 80 feet.
When the camera detects moving objects, it triggers the system to send push notification to your phone and also email you with snapshots.
The built-in alarm in the NVR will sound off to warn everyone of potential danger.
Because the PIR sensor is smart enough (or less sensitive), false alarms are kept to a minimum.
Tonton’s H.265+ video compression reduces bandwidth as well as storage requirements, which means the 32GB SD card would go a long way.
If not, you can always expand to 128GB.
The Verdict
This single security camera with monitor system trumps some of the more expensive brands in terms of features.
It’s ideal for people who want to upgrade to a better security system at a more palatable price point.
Sequro GuardPro 2 [3.7 | 34]
Sequro GuardPro 2 Plus is a Do-It-Yourself single camera system with security features that can rival expensive brands at a fraction of the price.
Out of the Box
The GuardPro 2 is one of the better-looking bullet cameras in the plug and play NVR/DVR class.
It sports a pristine white metallic casing that matches the color of the 10-inch touchscreen monitor. With no cable or wiring, set up is a breeze.
Key Features
While other cameras are boasting about their 7-inch tablet-sized monitors, the GuardPro 2 is live streaming in its portable 10-inch monitor in 1080p resolution.
The remote live view can also be done via the app and it supports multiple device viewing.
With the HDMI port, you can switch to an HD TV for a bigger display.
With night vision activated, it’s like watching a horror movie.
Live view, playback, and recording can all be done on one screen.
Multiple storage options are supported including external HDD and microSD.
There’s no need to pay for a cloud service subscription, which can help you save a ton of money.
The Verdict
With long-range transmission, the GuardPro 2 is ideal for users who want 24/7 monitoring of their barns, warehouses, or any open space.
