Video security system pricing

There are many components to video security systems: cameras, monitors, recorders, and cabling to connect the system. Add in the need for a quality installation, and it should be apparent that shopping by price alone is not a good approach. Some dealers will put together low-end packages to try to lure price-conscious shoppers – these systems suffer from lower quality, shaky reliability, and will not last for years and years the way higher quality systems will.

On the Internet, you can find complete video security systems of 4 to 16 cameras, including a monitor and VCR. Often they look like great deals – and most of the time, they are too good to be true. Low-quality components and a lack of support combine to create an offer that can do more harm than good to your business.

A very rough rule of thumb to use for pricing a complete, installed video security system is $500 to $1,000 per camera, plus the cost of your recording device. This depends quite a bit on the types of hardware you choose and how you set it up – read on for a more thorough breakdown.

Cameras and lenses
Basic CCTV cameras are not very expensive. Because the hardware cost is fairly low, it is worth spending a little extra money to get better system performance. Brand name cameras can be found for $120 to $250, and are often a better investment than a no-name camera. Prices vary according to features as well -- larger formats, higher resolution, and better sensitivity all drive prices up.

Hidden cameras, concealed in everyday objects like clocks, smoke detectors, and calculators, run $175 to $400. PTZ cameras are far more expensive, running $1,200 to $5,000 for one camera and the controller. If you do not have an operator to run a PTZ camera, it is rarely worth the expense.

Remember that in most cases you are purchasing a camera without a lens, so there is more to spend before you get a workable system. Lens prices vary widely. Fixed focal length lenses can go for $100 to $300 depending on size and whether they have a manual or auto iris; automatic zoom lenses can be between $800 and $2,000.

Recording devices and peripherals
This is another area where your needs will determine how much you spend. Quality DVRs generally start at $500 to $1,000+ for a single channel device, and get more expensive the more memory and inputs you add. If you are on a tight budget and willing to invest in fading technology, good time-lapse VCRs designed for security use start at $200 to $400 and go up to $600 or more.

Housings can cost from $25 to $200, depending on the degree of protection they provide.

CRT monitors can go for $150 to $500 and flat panels range from $300 to over $4,500. Both are heavily dependent on screen size.

Warranties on video security systems
As with most modern electronics, CCTV components are generally very reliable, especially if you are purchasing industry-recognized names. If they are going to fail, they will almost always do so within the first 90 days, while covered by the manufacturer’s warranty. In most cases, it is not worth purchasing the extended warranty coverage that vendors will offer you.

However, you may want to consider a maintenance plan for your video security system. Having your vendor regularly come in to clean and test your system can improve the overall performance and ensure that any problems that do occur are caught quickly.