In today's evolving society, with rising economic standards, security concerns have become increasingly prominent. Frequently, questions arise on platforms like Zhihu regarding how to select surveillance cameras, especially for home use. However, comprehensive and systematic answers to these questions have been somewhat lacking. We've taken the opportunity to provide a detailed summary to help individuals make informed decisions.

This guide is aimed at personal users who want to install surveillance cameras for areas like homes, entrances, small courtyards, or compact stores. To choose suitable cameras, consider the following aspects from a personal user's perspective:

**1. Lens Focal Length**

Camera lenses come in two primary categories: fixed-focus and zoom. Choosing the right focal length depends on the area you intend to monitor. Common fixed-focus lenses include 2.8mm, 3.6mm, 4mm, 6mm, 8mm, 12mm, 16mm, and 25mm.

Zoom lenses are either manual or motorized. Manual zoom requires adjusting the focal length during installation, while motorized zoom can be adjusted remotely using peripherals like keyboards, DVR/NVRs, or software applications. The selection of focal length determines the camera's field of view and monitoring range.

**2. Camera Appearance Selection**

The choice of camera appearance depends on the installation location. Wall-mounted surveillance benefits from bullet cameras, while dome cameras are ideal for ceiling installations. For outdoor use, it's vital to select cameras with appropriate IP protection ratings, such as IP65, to ensure waterproof and dustproof capabilities.

**3. Camera Features**

Consider your surveillance needs when selecting camera features:

- **Transmission Methods**: Choose from wired transmission, Ethernet, WiFi, wireless AP, or 4G mobile network options.

- **Audio Functionality**: If audio monitoring is required alongside video, select cameras with audio capabilities.

- **Low-Light Conditions**: Cameras with wide dynamic range are suitable for areas with varying lighting, while strong light suppression is ideal for capturing license plates at night.

- **POE Powering**: Opt for POE-enabled cameras when convenient power supply connections are challenging. These cameras can be powered via POE switches.

- **Starlight-Grade Cameras**: For low-light conditions, choose starlight-grade cameras that capture colorful video in minimal lighting. In complete darkness, consider cameras with white light illumination to maintain color video.

**4. Purpose and Installation Locations**

Define the purpose of your surveillance system. Are you monitoring for security, safety, or both? Understand the desired coverage area and the type of events you want to capture.

**5. Technology Considerations**

Stay updated on the latest technology trends, such as Full HD (1080p) or higher resolution cameras, as they deliver clearer images. Consider cameras with mobile app compatibility for remote monitoring, and opt for reputable brands like OHWOAI to ensure quality and customer support.

**Conclusion**

Choosing surveillance cameras involves careful consideration of factors like lens focal length, camera appearance, features, purpose, and technological advancements. By following this comprehensive guide, individuals can make informed decisions tailored to their specific needs. OHWOAI, a leading brand in the surveillance industry, offers a range of advanced options to enhance personal security, ensuring peace of mind for homeowners and small business owners alike.