If you're looking to replace or revamp your school's security cameras, you might feel buried by your options. You likely have multiple different safety and surveillance needs, so you'll need an advanced system to cover your bases.
There are several top security systems and camera installation companies to choose from. Because of this, it can get confusing how to choose the best solution for your school.
What Types of Security Systems Should Schools Have?
There are a couple of different types of security cameras, each offering different features, durability, and functions.
You'll want a good idea of the scope of vision you need, too, as some devices offer pan, tilt, and zoom functions for different angles. When you're creating a security design, consider the areas you need to observe. For a school campus, these may include:
- Parking lots
- Hallways
- Entryways
- Outdoor areas and walkways
It's also important to consider the hazards of the environment you're observing such as possible tampering, weather, and high or low lighting.
The two major types of security cameras to look at include dome cameras and bullet cameras. To simplify where to start, here are some of the best expert-recommended dome and bullet security cameras for your school.
Best Dome Security Cameras For Schools
Dome cameras are excellent options for indoor or outdoor areas because they offer enhanced durability to withstand most weather and possible tampering.
If you're considering this type of device, here are some of the best options for dome security cameras for schools.
AXIS M30 Dome Camera Series
Axis is one of the most popular brands of security devices due to their advanced features and long-lasting quality.
Their mini domes are an affordable option with video quality up to 8 MP, flexible installation on walls or ceilings, and advanced features including:
- Compact and discreet with a fixed focal lens
- Lightfinder feature
- Wide dynamic range (WDR) to correct light exposure issues
- Day/night functionality
- Analytics with AI deep learning for object detection and insights
To compare Axis with a few of of its top alternatives, read our blog: Axis vs Dahua vs Hikvision: Which Commercial Security System is Best for You?
Verkada Dome Series
The Verkada Dome Series includes some other great options if you're looking for a cloud security camera system for your school.
For example, the CD52 indoor camera and CD-52-E outdoor camera both offer:
- 5 MP video quality
- Zoom Lens
- 3x optical & digital zoom
- 30 - 365 days of standard video retention
- 256GB - 2TB of storage
To compare Verkada and its biggest competitor, Rhombus, read our blog: Rhombus vs Verkada Security Cameras for Businesses
Hikvision Pro Series Dome Cameras
Hikvision offers advanced dome cameras with video quality ranging from 4 to 8 MP and enhanced durability to water, dust and tampering.
Other features of this camera series include:
- WDR
- Smart hybrid light
- Built-in microphones with noise reduction
- Person and vehicle classification with deep learning
- Colorful imaging
See a comparison of Hikvision to a few other top brands here.
Top Bullet Cameras For Schools
Bullet cameras are much different than dome cameras but offer many additional features making them great options for schools. Here are some top bullet cameras recommended for schools.
Axis
The Axis P14 Bullet Camera Series offers several great features and durability for a school environment. Some features include:
- True colors and forensic detail in poor lighting with the Lightfinder 2.0 & Forensic WDR
- Surveillance in total darkness through OptimizedIR
- Support for AI analytics
- Audio and I/O connectivity
- Impact and weather-resistant
This series also has enhanced cybersecurity features like the Axis Edge Vault to deter unauthorized access.
Verkada Bullet Camera Series
Verkada offers many bullet cameras for both indoor and outdoor spaces, such as the CB52-E and CB52E-F that come with:
- 5 MP video quality
- 3x optical zoom
- 30-365 days of video retention
- 256GB to 2T of storage
This is a high-resolution general-purpose bullet camera with a 30M IR range. This would be an excellent option to observe outdoor spaces such as parking lots or high-traffic areas.
Dahua
Dahua offers some great bullet cameras such as the WizMind X Series. The 12MP IR WizMind Network Camera offered advanced features such as facial recognition, people counting, deep learning, parking space management and more.
Some other features include:
- Anti-corrosion coating
- Built-in IR LED with u to 60 meter illumination distance
- High definition 12MP image capture
How to Plan Out Your School Security Camera System Design
When you're creating a security design, consider the areas you need to observe. For a school campus, these may include:
- Parking lots
- Hallways
- Entryways
- Outdoor areas and walkways
It's also important to consider the hazards of the environment you're observing such as possible tampering, weather, and high or low lighting.
Vape Detection Sensors for Schools
Environmental sensors are another security solution gaining popularity in schools. Also called vape sensors, these can measure air quality and help detect vaping in areas where cameras cannot be placed, such as locker rooms.
To learn more about how vape detection systems can keep your school safe, read our blog: How Verkada is Revolutionizing School Safety With Vape Sensors
How to Find the Best School Security System
If you've got a solid idea of your school's specific security needs, it's wise to consult with a professional security camera installation business.
These professional services can configure your camera system correctly and install them properly. With the help of a security provider, you'll get expert assistance in finding the best viewpoints, surveillance angles, and devices to secure your campus.
If you're ready to jump into securing your school and investing in a quality security system, click the button below to speak with a security professional.
