July 2024 Review | SimpliSafe Outdoor Security Camera: Protect Home & Deter Burglars

An outdoor security camera is a great way to deter crime and protect your home from unwanted visitors. They bring peace of mind by giving you the ability to keep an eye on your property from anywhere in the world.

In 2020, there were an estimated 2.2 million burglaries in the United States. That is one burglary every 15 seconds. An outdoor home security camera can help to reduce the risk of your home being burglarized by up to 50%.

In addition to deterring crime, outdoor security cameras can also provide essential evidence to law enforcement agencies if a crime does occur. According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, video footage from security cameras helped to solve 40% of burglaries in 2020.

Here are some more verifiable data and statistics to highlight the importance of an outdoor home security camera:

• A study by the University of North Carolina found that homes with outdoor security cameras are less likely to be burglarized than homes without cameras.
• The National Insurance Crime Bureau estimates that video footage from security cameras helped to solve 40% of burglaries in 2020.
• A study by the University of California found that homeowners who installed an outdoor security camera reported feeling safer and more confident about their security.

These data points highlight why outdoor security cameras are a must-have for homeowners. If you are looking for a way to deter crime, protect your home, and feel more secure, then an outdoor security camera is a great option.

In this article, we are going to talk about the industry renowned SimpliSafe Outdoor Security Camera, and find out if it is really useful as a homeowner. 

About SimpliSafe

SimpliSafe was founded in 2006 by Harvard Business School students, Chad Laurans and Eleanor Laurans, after many of their friends experienced break-ins in the Cambridge area. The founders took 3 years to develop and test their prototypes, and launched in 2009 with initial funding from angel investors. The SimpliSafe range of products have often been recognized by various organizations as the best in home security systems. 

Read more: SimpliSafe Smart Door Lock System

SimpliSafe Outdoor Security Camera Introduction

The SimpliSafe outdoor security camera is a wireless, battery-powered camera that offers 1080p HD video, night vision, and motion detection. It is designed to be easy to install and use, and it can be integrated with other SimpliSafe security products to create a comprehensive home security system.

The camera has a 140-degree field of view, which allows it to capture a wide area of your property. It also has night vision, so you can see what is happening even in low-light conditions. Motion detection can be used to trigger alerts and recordings, so you will always know when something is happening on your property.

The SimpliSafe outdoor security camera is weatherproof and can withstand the elements. It is also resistant to tampering, so you can be sure that your security is not compromised.

The camera can be integrated with other SimpliSafe security products, such as the SimpliSafe base station and the SimpliSafe keypad. This allows you to create a comprehensive home security system that can be monitored and controlled from anywhere in the world.

The SimpliSafe outdoor security camera is a great option for homeowners who are looking for a reliable, easy-to-use security camera. It is also a good option for homeowners who want to integrate their security system with other SimpliSafe products.

Some additional features of the SimpliSafe outdoor security camera:

• Two-way audio: The camera has a built-in microphone and speaker, so you can communicate with anyone who is on the other side of the camera.
• Cloud storage: Video and audio recordings can be stored in the SimpliSafe cloud for up to 30 days.
• Mobile app: The SimpliSafe mobile app allows you to view live video from the camera, receive alerts, and control the settings of the camera.

The SimpliSafe outdoor security camera is a great way to secure your home. It is easy to install, use, and integrate with other SimpliSafe security products. If you are looking for a reliable and affordable outdoor security camera, the SimpliSafe outdoor security camera is a great option.

Here is a list of SimpliSafe outdoor security camera features, and an explanation of each feature:

#1 1080p HD Video

The camera records 1080p HD video, which provides clear and detailed images. This is important because it allows you to see what’s happening on your property in great detail. This can be helpful if you need to identify someone who has trespassed on your property or if you need to provide evidence to law enforcement if a crime has been committed.

1080p HD video is a video format that has a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. This means that the video has a total of 2.1 megapixels. 1080p HD video is considered to be high definition video, and it provides a much clearer and more detailed image than standard definition video.

Here are some of the benefits of using 1080p HD video:

• Clearer and more detailed images: 1080p HD video provides a much clearer and more detailed image than standard definition video. This can be helpful for a variety of purposes, such as home security, recording family events, or creating home movies.
• Wider viewing angle: 1080p HD video cameras often have a wider viewing angle than standard definition video cameras. This can be helpful for monitoring a large area, such as a backyard or driveway.
• More immersive experience: 1080p HD video can provide a more immersive experience when watching movies or playing video games.

#2 Night Vision: 

The SimpliSafe outdoor security camera has night vision, which allows it to see what is happening even in low-light conditions. This is important because it allows you to monitor your property 24/7. This can be helpful if you live in an area with a lot of crime or if you want to make sure that your home is secure at night.

The SimpliSafe night vision feature uses infrared light to illuminate the area around the camera. This light is invisible to the human eye, but it can be seen by the camera’s sensor. The camera then uses this infrared light to create a black and white image of the area around it.

The night vision feature has a range of up to 30 feet. This means that the camera can see objects that are up to 30 feet away in low-light conditions.

This feature is a great way to add an extra layer of security to your home. It allows you to monitor your property 24/7, even in low-light conditions. This can help you to deter crime and to catch criminals in the act.

Here are some of the benefits of using night vision:

• 24/7 monitoring: Night vision allows you to monitor your property 24/7, even in low-light conditions. This can help you to deter crime and to catch criminals in the act.
• Wider viewing angle: Night vision cameras often have a wider viewing angle than standard definition cameras. This can be helpful for monitoring a large area, such as a backyard or driveway.
• More immersive experience: Night vision can provide a more immersive experience when watching movies or playing video games.

If you are looking for a security camera with night vision, the SimpliSafe outdoor security camera is a great option. It has a wide viewing angle, a clear image, and a long range.

Here are some tips for using SimpliSafe night vision:

• Clean the camera lens: The camera lens should be kept clean to ensure that the image is clear.
• Place the camera in a well-lit area: The camera should be placed in an area where there is enough light for the night vision to work properly.
• Test the night vision: The night vision should be tested to make sure that it is working properly.
• Adjust the settings: The settings on the camera can be adjusted to improve the night vision.

By following these tips, you can ensure that the SimpliSafe night vision feature is working properly and that you are getting the most out of it.

#3 Motion Detection

SimpliSafe motion detection feature uses passive infrared technology (PIR) to detect unauthorized entry into your home. When a motion sensor detects movement, it sends an alert to your base station, which then sends an alert to your phone and/or SimpliSafe’s monitoring center. If you have professional monitoring, the monitoring center will dispatch the police or fire department to your home.

SimpliSafe motion sensors have a range of up to 30 feet and a field of view of 90 degrees. They are also pet-friendly, meaning that they will not trigger an alarm if your pet walks past them.

To install a SimpliSafe motion sensor, you will need to:

1. Choose a location for the sensor. The sensor should be placed in a high-traffic area, such as a hallway or doorway.
2. Remove the backing from the sensor.
3. Press the sensor firmly against the wall or ceiling.
4. Use the included screws to secure the sensor in place.

Once the sensor is installed, you need to program it to your system. To do this, follow the instructions in your SimpliSafe user manual.

SimpliSafe motion detection is a valuable security feature that helps to protect your home from unauthorized entry. If you are considering a home security system, SimpliSafe is a great option.

Here are some additional details about SimpliSafe motion detection:

• The motion sensors use infrared technology to detect movement.
• The sensors can be programmed to detect motion only during certain times of day or on certain days of the week.
• The sensors can be set to ignore motion caused by pets.
• The sensors can be linked to other SimpliSafe devices, such as door and window sensors, to create a more comprehensive security system.

If you are concerned about false alarms, SimpliSafe motion sensors have a number of features that can help to reduce the risk of false alarms. These features include:

• Motion detection sensitivity settings. You can adjust the sensitivity of the motion sensors to reduce the risk of false alarms caused by small movements, such as those caused by pets.
• Motion detection delay. You can set a delay before the motion sensors trigger an alarm. This can help to prevent false alarms caused by things like shadows or sunlight.
• Pet-friendly mode. You can set the motion sensors to ignore motion caused by pets.

Overall, SimpliSafe motion detection is a reliable and effective security feature that can help to protect your home from unauthorized entry. If you are considering a home security system, SimpliSafe is a great option.

#4 Weatherproof

SimpliSafe’s weatherproof feature is designed to protect your security system from the elements. The system is rated IP65, which means it is dust-tight and can withstand low-pressure water jets. It is also capable of operating in temperatures between minus 20 degrees and 122 degrees Fahrenheit.

This makes SimpliSafe a great option for homes in any climate. Whether you live in a hot, dry desert or a cold, snowy winter, you can be confident that your home security system will be protected from the elements.

Here are some of the benefits of SimpliSafe’s weatherproof feature:

• Peace of mind: Knowing that your home security system is protected from the elements can give you peace of mind, even when you’re away from home.
• Increased security: The weatherproof feature can help to deter burglars and other intruders, knowing that your home security system will still be operational even in bad weather.
• Reduced maintenance: The weatherproof feature can help to reduce the need for maintenance, as you will not have to worry about your security system getting damaged by the elements.

If you are looking for a reliable and secure home security system that can withstand the elements, SimpliSafe is a great option. With its weatherproof feature, you can be confident that your system will be protected, even in the harshest conditions.

Here are some additional details about SimpliSafe’s weatherproofing:

• The system’s keypads are made of durable materials and are designed to withstand the elements.
• The system’s sensors are also weatherproof and can be used in any climate.
• The system’s base station is also weatherproof and can be mounted indoors or outdoors.

If you have any concerns about whether or not SimpliSafe’s weatherproofing is sufficient for your needs, you can contact SimpliSafe customer support for assistance.

#5 Two-Way Audio

The two-way audio feature allows you to communicate with anyone who is at your door, even if you are not home. When someone rings the doorbell, you will receive a notification on your smartphone. You can then use the SimpliSafe app to speak to the person at the door through the doorbell’s built-in speaker and microphone.

This feature can be used for a variety of purposes, such as:

• Checking to see who is at the door before you answer it.
• Talking to a delivery driver or package shover without having to open the door.
• Warning off potential intruders.
• Communicating with your pets when you are not home.

The SimpliSafe two-way audio feature is a great way to add an extra layer of security to your home. It is also a convenient way to communicate with people who are at your door, even if you are not home.

To use SimpliSafe’s two-way audio feature, you need to:

1. Have a SimpliSafe security system with a keypad or mobile app.
2. Make sure your security system is armed.
3. Press the Talk button on your keypad or mobile app.
4. Speak into the microphone.
5. To listen, release the Talk button.

SimpliSafe’s two-way audio feature is a great way to add an extra layer of security to your home. It is also a convenient way to check on deliveries, pets, children, and other things around your home.

Here are some additional details about SimpliSafe’s two-way audio feature:

• The feature is available on all SimpliSafe keypads and mobile apps.
• The feature has a range of up to 100 feet.
• The feature can be used with any SimpliSafe sensor, including motion sensors, door or window sensors, and glass break sensors.

If you have any questions about SimpliSafe’s two-way audio feature, you can contact SimpliSafe customer support for assistance.

#6 Cloud Storage

The cloud storage feature allows you to store video recordings from your SimpliSafe cameras in the cloud. This means that you can access your recordings from anywhere, even if you are not home. SimpliSafe offers two cloud storage plans:

• Basic: This plan costs $4.99 per month and provides 30 days of cloud storage for one camera.
• Enhanced: This plan costs $9.99 per month and provides 30 days of cloud storage for up to five cameras.

Please check the cost for recency. The costs mentioned on the SimpliSafe official website at the time of writing the blog post have been highlighted here.

Both plans include the following features:

• Motion detection: Your camera will automatically record video when it detects motion.
• Video history: You can view a history of all the videos that your camera has recorded.
• Alerts: You will receive alerts on your phone or computer when your camera detects motion.

The Enhanced plan also includes the following additional features:

• Two-way audio: You can use your phone or computer to talk to someone who is in front of your camera.
• Night vision: Your camera can see in the dark.
• Cloud backup: Your videos will be backed up to the cloud in case your camera is damaged or stolen.

If you want to record video from your SimpliSafe camera, you need to subscribe to one of the cloud storage plans. You cannot record video to a local storage device.

Here are some of the pros and cons of SimpliSafe’s cloud storage plans:

Pros:

• Affordable
• Easy to use
• Includes a variety of features

Cons:

• Requires a subscription
• Only available for SimpliSafe cameras
• Not as customizable as some other cloud storage options

Overall, SimpliSafe’s cloud storage plans are a good option if you want to record video from your SimpliSafe cameras. However, if you are looking for a more customizable cloud storage option, you may want to consider a different option.

Installing SimpliSafe Outdoor Security Camera

Here are the steps to install a SimpliSafe outdoor security camera:

#1 Gather your materials. 

You will need the following materials to install your SimpliSafe outdoor security camera:

• SimpliSafe outdoor security camera
• Screwdriver
• Drill (optional)
• Mounting hardware (optional)
• SimpliSafe app
• USB power adapter (optional)

#2 Find a good location for your camera. 

The best location for your camera is one that will give you a good view of your property. You should also consider the following factors when choosing a location for your camera:

• Visibility: Make sure that the camera has a clear view of your property.
• Obstructions: Avoid placing the camera in a location where it will be obstructed by trees, shrubs, or other objects.
• Security: The camera should be in a location that is difficult for someone to tamper with.

#3 Mount the camera. 

Once you have chosen a location for your camera, you can mount it using the included mounting hardware. If you are mounting the camera on a brick or concrete surface, you will need to drill a hole in the wall.

#4 Connect the camera to power. 

The SimpliSafe outdoor security camera can be powered by a USB power adapter or by the included battery. If you are using the battery, you will need to charge it before you can use the camera.

#5 Pair the camera with your SimpliSafe system. 

To pair the camera with your SimpliSafe system, you will need to use the SimpliSafe app. Open the app and follow the instructions to pair the camera.

#6 Test the camera. 

Once the camera is paired with your SimpliSafe system, you can test it to make sure that it is working properly. To test the camera, open the SimpliSafe app and tap on the camera’s icon. The camera should start streaming video.

#7 Configure the camera settings. 

You can configure the camera settings using the SimpliSafe app. You can change the camera’s name, location, and motion detection settings. You can also enable or disable the camera’s night vision and two-way audio features.

Here are some additional tips for installing a SimpliSafe outdoor security camera:

• If you are not comfortable mounting the camera yourself, you can hire a professional to do it for you.
• If you are mounting the camera in a windy or rainy location, you may want to consider using a weatherproof camera housing.
• You can use the SimpliSafe app to view live video from your camera from anywhere in the world.
• You can also use the SimpliSafe app to receive alerts when the camera detects motion.

We hope this helps!

Closing 

The SimpliSafe outdoor security camera is a great way to add an extra layer of security to your home. It is easy to install, use, and integrate with other SimpliSafe security products. 

If you are looking for a reliable and affordable outdoor security camera, the SimpliSafe outdoor security camera is a great option.