How Much Does Security Camera Installation Cost

The average overall surveillance camera installation cost that most Americans pay could be anywhere between $811 and $2,213. The safest overall expense between the two ends of the average price range is $1,511.

The cheapest possible cost to install security cameras is $250. The most expensive projection, on the other hand, is $3,500. However, these two stretched ends gone through extreme lengths of either minimizing or maximizing the inclusive items needed for a complete surveillance installation. 

Overall Cost Itemization

• Software

These applications can be acquired for free by simply creating a user profile in a service provider’s website. But there are also “pro” or “premium” versions you can avail at the highest price of $75. The difference between the two is that the premium version can sync with the camera’s hardware and allow remote control sync capability.

• NAS or DVR

Data recording devices like the network-attached storage (NAS) or digital video recorder (DVR) serves as the main depository of a camera’s recorded footage. The NAS can provide a maximum of 4 TB worth of data best suited for Internet Protocol cameras, available at an average cost of $499. For only 1TB worth of data, the average cost of NAS is $168.

For DVR’s, the cost can range anywhere between $100 and $1000 (excluding the provider’s time-based monitoring services). The only main advantage of a DVR is that it is operational without an internet connection.

• Camera variety

The cheapest surveillance hardware only costs an average of $100. The most high-end device that includes remote control capability (pan, tilt, and zoom), microphone and audio sockets, motion sensors, and integrated wireless internet system (without a host computer) can climb a steep price of $950.

• Installation

It usually takes 4 hours to install a surveillance camera system inside homes. Licensed electricians usually charge a fee ranging from $260 to $340. The cost to install security cameras often hinges on the difficulty of one’s home interior layout.

Types of Cameras

• Program

One of the two components of a surveillance camera is its program. The most standard variety is the Close Circuit TV (CCTV) that relies solely on strategic placement of analogs. The Internet Protocol (IP) is a newer program that incorporates additional web-based functions and features in traditional CCTV’s.

Between the two, the latter proved to be more popular because of its overall cost-efficiency. The DVR-based CCTV analog is relatively more expensive to maintain because of its multiple gadget pieces. NAS-based IP cameras are becoming more user-friendly within the past several years. In essence, IP cameras have a much cheaper long-term surveillance camera installation cost.

• Hardware

Bullet cameras the more traditional variety that is often found outdoors sticking its head out like a remote miniature telescope. While they offer better durability and maximum zoom range, bullet cameras don’t look good indoors and can only pan up to an average of 95 degrees angle.

Dome cameras, on the other hand, resemble a small version of its namesake shape. Often placed upside down from a ceiling, these cameras look good indoors since it easily blends with the interior décor. Dome cameras have the advantage of being inconspicuous as it may even resemble one of the ceiling lights. Unlike bullet cameras, they can rotate at full 360 degrees. However, these types of camera are not built for durability and exposure from weather extremes could damage it easily. Another disadvantage includes its limited zoom range.

Tips On Cutting Down Expenses

Although a $250-worth budget seemed like a bad deal in terms of overall security value, there are ways to trim surveillance camera installation cost without compromising the return of investment. Here are sure ways to cut down the total cost to install security cameras:

Do It Yourself!

Buying a complete DIY surveillance kit has already spared you from installation charges. There are companies that already distribute user-friendly devices that are relatively easy to set up (even for beginners) that calling for technical services would no longer be necessary. That’s as much as $340 worth of savings for you.

Ask for discounts

Another way to tighten your budget effectively is to ask for a discount from the electronics shop. You can get a markdown ranging from 5% to 20% but it entails some measure of negotiation skills. The chances of successfully acquiring a discount will largely depend on how well you can persuade the retailer.

Study brand and product reviews

Researching about the brands could also help broaden your options and provide you with accurate references and price quotations. It is always best to read product reviews online as a way of gauging the reliability of the merchandise. After all, “cheap price” is not always equal to “best choice”. Knowing the best quality equipment according to your budget is a truly smart way of saving money.

Go for special offers and events

The best reason for keeping a keen eye on holidays is these dates are a perfect window for discounts, special offers, and events. Some companies announce important events (e.g. anniversary) that draw the participation of patrons, wherein they can participate in raffle games or rewarded contests (e.g. marathon, sports, video game tournaments, etc). These are one of the many instances wherein you’d either acquire products via buy-one-take-one bargain or even for free.

Visit the best-seller’s social media

If you have already found your best seller, there are a number of important reasons why you should visit their Facebook and Twitter fan page. For one thing, it keeps you updated with discounts, special offers, and events. After all, the internet has always proven to be the most comprehensive and updated media.

But if there is another reason for visiting their social media sites, it has a lot to do with acquiring and collecting coupons. In essence, collecting many coupons can guarantee better chances of obtaining free or (ridiculously) lowered markdown cost per equipment item.

Some companies have excellent social media administrators who will even entertain queries and comments, on top of updating the information on their page. Landing in a well-maintained company fan page also warrants a very pleasant return of investment on your part as the consumer.