Businesses face countless security risks and operational challenges. This article will help you choose the best security camera systems by offering feature comparisons, real-world examples, and insights into how technology is transforming commercial security. Keep reading to discover how these solutions can deter theft, streamline operations, and future-proof your enterprise.
Security camera systems and software powering security tech enable new and more powerful capabilities. Physical security — the industry category in which video surveillance and other security systems fall — was a $116 billion industry in 2021. And it’s growing rapidly, with a compound annual growth rate projected at 6.5% to 9.4% through 2030.
But in such a rapidly growing market, it can be hard for business owners to know where to start their search. Read all about the seven best security camera systems available to your business today.
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What Are Business Security Cameras and Why Do They Matter?
Business security cameras—often referred to as commercial security camera systems—are specialized devices designed to capture and record video footage for businesses, helping to deter theft, support compliance initiatives, and provide operational oversight. According to Security.org, modern video surveillance systems for business can add significant value by boosting employee safety, streamlining training, improving customer experiences, and offering insights well beyond basic surveillance. In essence, these cameras are no longer just for security—they are tools for smarter and more efficient operations.
Key Features to Look for in Business Security Camera Systems
As you evaluate commercial security camera systems, there are certain must-have capabilities that set the best video surveillance systems for business apart. Below is a quick overview of essential features:
- AI-powered analytics: Leverage real-time insights to automate processes, identify trends, and enhance security.
- Remote access: Monitor and manage camera feeds from any location, ensuring constant oversight.
- Multi-location management: Streamline oversight by viewing and controlling multiple sites from a single dashboard.
- Cybersecurity features: Protect sensitive data through encryption, secure storage, and robust privacy protocols.
Up-to-date software design
A security camera on its own is little more than a piece of wall décor. The camera itself is just a tool: The software that controls that camera and reads and stores the footage from the camera matters just as much as (if not more than) the camera’s tech specs.
That’s because every moment you spend interacting with security footage, you spend in the software — so it matters whether that software is easy to use and full of modern features like AI-powered video intelligence, or stuck somewhere in the previous decade.
Not just made for security
At one time, video cameras were about security and little else. But today, they're used for much more: safety, efficiency, training, risk management, and more. For example:
- Schools being able to ensure the safety and security of their staff, students, and locations by setting alerts and understanding how, when, and where people or vehicles are present.
- Car wash owners and operators saving hours of time each week defending against damage claims by quickly finding footage, annotating, commenting, and collaborating directly within the dashboard.
- Manufacturing, warehousing, and transportation industries improving operational efficiency by analyzing video data to automate stock management.
Today, both software and hardware must be built with these expanded use cases in view.
Compatibility with many different cameras
Most businesses will benefit from a security system that uses multiple camera types, and not every manufacturer makes products that fit every use case. As a result, it’s common for businesses to end up with products from multiple manufacturers.
But before you go that route, you need to know what cameras (types and brands) a given security system can work with. Some brands are very picky, while others offer broad compatibility.
Opt for systems with broader compatibility, not narrower, to give yourself the most flexibility down the road.
Built for multiple locations
The ability to instantly pull security footage from any location is a massive productivity and security enhancement. For many businesses, this is a blocker for efficiency before, during, and after an incident. It could take hours or days to find the footage needed at any given location because there are different log-ins and different camera systems at each location.
Today, having the ability to view all camera footage and all locations from one dashboard is critical.
Built-in cybersecurity protections and privacy
Many of today’s video security systems are cloud-enabled, which means they’re constantly sending video footage to a cloud server located elsewhere. Some systems are cloud-only, with no on-site storage whatsoever.
Given this shift to cloud video security, having strong cybersecurity protection and privacy is more important than ever.
Comparing the 7 Best Business Security Camera Systems
1) Spot AI
Spot AI is a modern AI camera system that helps businesses manage operations with an easier-to-use, more intelligent approach to video security. Spot AI’s unique approach means any IP business security camera will work with the system.
Spot AI combines an on-site Intelligent Video Recorder (IVR) edge server with the power of the cloud, allowing for a single dashboard interface no matter your device, as well as collaboration and business video intelligence unlike what you’ve seen before.
Why does this matter? Because businesses are generating more video from business security cameras than ever, and simply having camera footage isn’t enough. Businesses need the ability to process and truly understand the content of that footage.
And doing that requires a new approach. One that goes beyond security and extends into many facets of your business operations.
Spot AI is software and hardware working together to deliver video intelligence. It’s camera-agnostic, so you can use the cameras you already have. Or, if you need them, receive premium turret or bullet cameras directly from us — at no additional charge.
Standout features and benefits
- Beautiful, functional UI that delivers a satisfying and efficient user experience
- Single, united dashboard for all cameras — no more juggling systems or fighting incompatibility
- Easy to install and maintain; no IT expertise required
- All the benefits of local storage with the convenience of cloud
- Video data and summaries of videos to unlock more value
- Search and find actions
- Low training requirements
2) Verkada
Verkada is another video management platform that allows users to pull in video from all connected hardware. The platform gives users a single pane of glass, an integrated dashboard from which you can view every camera. It also offers remote access in any browser or the accompanying mobile video security app.
There are a few limitations to note about the Verkada ecosystem, though. For one, it’s a closed ecosystem — meaning it does a great job collecting footage from Verkada devices but won’t work with other brands.
Second, Verkada can’t operate as a connected experience across multiple physical spaces. Each separate branch, franchise, or store would need its own Verkada video management system, which is far from ideal for most businesses.
Standout features and benefits
- Plug-and-play system
- Minimal hardware requirements for a functioning security system
- Dedicated fixed storage recording time
- Mobile video security app for access on the go
Spot AI’s advantage: In contrast to Verkada’s closed ecosystem, Spot AI is fully camera-agnostic and supports multi-location management from a single platform, giving businesses more flexibility and scalability.
3) Eagle Eye
Eagle Eye Networks offers two software products: the Eagle Eye Cloud Video Management System and the Eagle Eye Video API Platform. The former is a good option for most businesses, while larger or more tech-forward businesses may enjoy the freedom and flexibility of Eagle Eye’s API platform.
One of the best elements of Eagle Eye’s cloud VMS is its openness: it works with the cameras you already have and doesn’t lock you into a particular device ecosystem. Of course, if you need hardware, Eagle Eye is happy to provide it.
Eagle Eye’s products falter when it comes to user-friendliness or ease of installation/use, partly due to how the company targets larger businesses that can absorb those resource costs. The system also takes some time to install, set up, and configure. And due to the complexity, no one will jump right into using the system without significant training.
Customers who need to build out a system and don’t want to pay for cameras should look elsewhere. (Spot AI, for example, provides those cameras for free.)
Standout features and benefits
- Strong, robust software built on open architecture so you can use the cameras you already have
- Video API platform for deep, direct, powerful access to what Eagle Eye can do
- AI video analytics and smart video search help you glean actionable data from video and find exactly what you need when you need it
- License plate recognition (LPR) (for the industries and applications that need it)
Spot AI’s advantage: Unlike Eagle Eye, which can be resource-intensive to set up and maintain, Spot AI is designed for quick deployment and user-friendly video intelligence—making it accessible even for businesses without large IT teams.
4) Rhombus Systems
Rhombus Systems is a newer company in the surveillance system and software space, and they have entered the market at a relatively affordable price point compared to legacy providers.
Rhombus is a cloud-native platform, which puts access to your system in the palm of your hand, no matter where you are, over a Wi-Fi or cellular connection. At the same time, its cameras can deliver up to 180 days of on-device storage.
Rhombus delivers in the camera department, but its line of connected sensors further sets it apart. Vape detection, entry and motion detection, and even audio analytics add to the system’s capabilities.
Their combination of hardware plus licensing helps to keep costs low on the front end, but it also means that your system becomes functionally useless if you don’t keep up with the yearly licensing fees.
Standout features and benefits
- Relatively affordable cameras and sensors compared to some vendors
- Line of sensors (in addition to cameras) that enable organizations to detect motion (via motion alerts), entry, and environmental factors (such as vape or smoke detection)
- Audio gateway for intelligent audio analytics
Spot AI’s advantage: Rhombus focuses on hardware plus licensing, whereas Spot AI’s camera-agnostic approach and modern AI platform offer more flexibility—especially if you want to integrate existing cameras or avoid large upfront hardware costs.
5) Lorex
Lorex is one of the largest providers of business security solutions, offering all types of cameras: outdoor security cameras, indoor cameras, bullet cameras, dome cameras, battery-powered, wired.
The same goes for video quality: Get as many pixels as you require, all the way up to 1080p HD and even ultra HD. In terms of storage options, Lorex sells numerous Network video recorders (NVRs) for use with PoE IP security cameras and digital video recorders (DVRs) for use with analog cameras.
What isn’t here matters, though: Lorex doesn’t offer any monitoring service or cloud video storage nor a cohesive software product that pulls all these cameras together. Businesses are on their own for all of this, which may not be the right choice for small businesses.
Standout features and benefits
- Retail-style website with frequent discounts and sales
- Professional-grade equipment
- Large catalog with capabilities many competitors don’t offer (like color night vision)
Spot AI’s advantage: Lorex provides great camera variety, but it lacks an integrated software platform. Spot AI unifies camera management, analytics, and cloud convenience so you’re not piecing together different services.
6) Ring
Ring made a name for itself with smart home products that integrate with Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, or Amazon Alexa. Its home security cameras perform well, and its iconic doorbell cam provides high-quality two-way audio and clear images to give homeowners peace of mind.
Ring’s primary focus on home video surveillance systems is obvious throughout their website and marketing materials, but the company does offer business products. Its products are simple to use and easy to install, and prices are pretty low (for devices as well as monitoring and video storage).
While Ring isn’t as robust as more business-oriented vendors, it’s worth a look for many small businesses. However, it does run an ecosystem risk: Businesses that eventually outgrow their Ring systems will usually need to start from scratch.
Standout features and benefits
- Products are easy to use and easy to install
- Professional monitoring or DIY monitoring
- Sixty days of video storage by default (double what Arlo, Ring’s closest competitor, offers)
Spot AI’s advantage: While Ring can be a good fit for very small businesses, Spot AI is purpose-built for commercial needs like multi-location management, AI video analytics, and seamless scalability—ensuring you won’t have to replace your system as you grow.
7) Ava
Ava is last on our list of top picks for wireless security camera systems. Unlike Ring’s smart home focus, Ava’s cloud-native platform is built with businesses and organizations in mind.
The software’s open architecture means that users can use Ava-brand security camera equipment or their existing on-premises cameras, all using a single interface. Receive real-time alerts and analytics, activity logs, and single-pane video adjustments.
Ava’s storage options make it easy to record and safeguard footage on your local file system or their robust cloud storage network. You don’t need to worry about grainy or blurry footage — capture video in 4K resolution or less.
That said, you’ll need to request a quote to learn the cost of Ava’s main platform, which usually indicates a higher cost. Ava also requires you to pay for certain features while keeping pricing hidden. For example, Ava only offers 30 days of free cloud storage per camera. After that, you’ll need to pay for more storage for each device on a license-by-license basis, which could become costly quickly.
Standout features and benefits
- Complete, cloud-native solution for a variety of industries
- Available add-ons like license plate recognition, sensors, and AI enhancements that detect humans, pets, and objects
- 10-year warranty on Ava cameras
Spot AI’s advantage: Ava’s cloud platform is powerful but can get expensive with add-on fees. Spot AI’s straightforward approach—combining edge technology with cloud intelligence—helps businesses control costs without sacrificing advanced AI features.
Compare All Security Camera Systems
<table style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">
<thead>
<tr style="background-color: #009BDB; color: #ffffff;">
<th style="padding: 14px; border: 1px solid #ccc; text-align: left; vertical-align: top;">System</th>
<th style="padding: 14px; border: 1px solid #ccc; text-align: left; vertical-align: top;">Key Features</th>
<th style="padding: 14px; border: 1px solid #ccc; text-align: left; vertical-align: top;">Limitations</th>
<th style="padding: 14px; border: 1px solid #ccc; text-align: left; vertical-align: top;">Advantages</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 12px; font-weight: bold; border: 1px solid #ccc; vertical-align: top;">Spot AI</td>
<td style="padding: 12px; border: 1px solid #ccc; vertical-align: top;">Camera-agnostic; hybrid edge/cloud setup; intuitive dashboard; AI video intelligence; easy deployment; low training requirements</td>
<td style="padding: 12px; border: 1px solid #ccc; vertical-align: top;">N/A (benchmark system)</td>
<td style="padding: 12px; border: 1px solid #ccc; vertical-align: top;">Broader compatibility, scalability, and AI features</td>
</tr>
<tr style="background-color: #f9f9f9;">
<td style="padding: 12px; font-weight: bold; border: 1px solid #ccc; vertical-align: top;">Verkada</td>
<td style="padding: 12px; border: 1px solid #ccc; vertical-align: top;">Plug-and-play setup; mobile app access; fixed storage</td>
<td style="padding: 12px; border: 1px solid #ccc; vertical-align: top;">Closed ecosystem; lacks centralized multi-location support</td>
<td style="padding: 12px; border: 1px solid #ccc; vertical-align: top;">Supports any IP camera; unified dashboard across all locations</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 12px; font-weight: bold; border: 1px solid #ccc; vertical-align: top;">Eagle Eye</td>
<td style="padding: 12px; border: 1px solid #ccc; vertical-align: top;">Open architecture; video API; AI analytics; license plate recognition</td>
<td style="padding: 12px; border: 1px solid #ccc; vertical-align: top;">Complex setup; requires training and IT support</td>
<td style="padding: 12px; border: 1px solid #ccc; vertical-align: top;">Fast deployment; minimal setup; intuitive platform for non-technical users</td>
</tr>
<tr style="background-color: #f9f9f9;">
<td style="padding: 12px; font-weight: bold; border: 1px solid #ccc; vertical-align: top;">Rhombus Systems</td>
<td style="padding: 12px; border: 1px solid #ccc; vertical-align: top;">Affordable cameras; environmental sensors; audio analytics</td>
<td style="padding: 12px; border: 1px solid #ccc; vertical-align: top;">Annual licensing dependency; limited long-term flexibility</td>
<td style="padding: 12px; border: 1px solid #ccc; vertical-align: top;">No licensing lock-in; supports existing hardware; robust AI platform</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 12px; font-weight: bold; border: 1px solid #ccc; vertical-align: top;">Lorex</td>
<td style="padding: 12px; border: 1px solid #ccc; vertical-align: top;">Large camera catalog; advanced video specs (HD/4K); low-cost hardware</td>
<td style="padding: 12px; border: 1px solid #ccc; vertical-align: top;">No cloud storage or centralized software; lacks enterprise integration</td>
<td style="padding: 12px; border: 1px solid #ccc; vertical-align: top;">Centralized software, built-in analytics, cloud hybrid flexibility</td>
</tr>
<tr style="background-color: #f9f9f9;">
<td style="padding: 12px; font-weight: bold; border: 1px solid #ccc; vertical-align: top;">Ring</td>
<td style="padding: 12px; border: 1px solid #ccc; vertical-align: top;">Easy to install and use; mobile monitoring; 60-day video storage</td>
<td style="padding: 12px; border: 1px solid #ccc; vertical-align: top;">Primarily home-focused; may not scale with business growth</td>
<td style="padding: 12px; border: 1px solid #ccc; vertical-align: top;">Scalable, business-ready platform with commercial-grade capabilities</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 12px; font-weight: bold; border: 1px solid #ccc; vertical-align: top;">Ava</td>
<td style="padding: 12px; border: 1px solid #ccc; vertical-align: top;">Cloud-native; 4K video; real-time analytics; open platform</td>
<td style="padding: 12px; border: 1px solid #ccc; vertical-align: top;">High cost; hidden fees; limited default storage</td>
<td style="padding: 12px; border: 1px solid #ccc; vertical-align: top;">Transparent pricing; edge-to-cloud value; free camera availability</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Industry-Specific Use Cases for Security Camera Systems
Different industries have unique demands when it comes to security and operations. Below are some examples of how a business security camera system can be tailored to meet industry-specific needs:
- Retail: Loss prevention, shelf-stock analysis, and customer flow monitoring are critical. See how Spot AI customers in retail use video analytics to optimize layout and reduce theft.
- Manufacturing: Machine safety and workflow optimization can be tracked via continuous video data. Spot AI’s manufacturing case studies show how video intelligence can streamline production.
- Healthcare: Patient safety, compliance with privacy regulations (HIPAA), and emergency response are paramount. Security cameras can provide crucial documentation, while AI alerts help avert critical incidents.
- Logistics: Warehouses and transportation hubs rely on video to improve inventory management and validate chain-of-custody for shipped goods.
How to Choose the Right Security Camera System for Your Business
Step 1: Assess Coverage Needs
Determine where cameras are most needed, whether for securing entry points or overseeing critical processes. Consider indoor vs. outdoor coverage and plan for any specialized areas requiring higher resolution or night vision.
Step 2: Integration and Compatibility
Confirm that your chosen solution works with existing network infrastructure and physical hardware. Systems like Spot AI provide camera-agnostic integration, meaning you’re not locked into a single solution.
Step 3: Decide on Cloud vs. On-Premise Storage
Cloud storage offers easy remote access and automatic backups. On-premise solutions keep data within your own network. A hybrid approach—like Spot AI’s combination of edge recording and cloud intelligence—delivers the best of both worlds.
Step 4: Evaluate AI Capabilities
Look for features like preemptive alerts, object detection, and automated reports. AI-based analytics can help you identify issues faster and gain insights into operational efficiency.
Unlock More Than Security With Spot AI
Spot AI goes beyond basic surveillance and video monitoring. Our solution features:
- Video intelligence that transforms raw footage into actionable data
- Multi-location oversight so you can manage separate sites from a single console
- Rapid deployment with edge devices that seamlessly integrate with your network
- AI analytics that automatically detect and flag important events
- A collaborative platform that lets you quickly share clips, add annotations, and tag personnel
Ready to see how Spot AI can optimize your business? Schedule a demo or reach out to our team to explore how you can leverage modern commercial security camera systems for more than just security.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between CCTV and modern business security camera systems?
Traditional CCTV (Closed-Circuit Television) is largely analog and records footage on local devices. Modern systems leverage digital, often cloud-based, infrastructures for remote access, AI analytics, and easier storage management.
Can I use these systems for multi-location monitoring?
Yes. Businesses with multiple sites benefit from unified dashboards and remote access. Solutions like Spot AI offer single-pane-of-glass administration across all locations.
How do AI-driven solutions benefit our operations?
AI-powered analytics identify unusual patterns, provide real-time alerts, and help you quickly locate critical footage. This maximizes efficiency, reduces investigative times, and can even highlight operational improvements.
What about OSHA compliance and safety regulations?
Camera footage can be valuable for verifying safety protocols, investigating accidents, and ensuring that your organization adheres to regulatory requirements. AI-driven insights also help you proactively address safety risks.
How long does it take to implement a commercial security camera system?
Implementation timelines vary by the size and complexity of your setup. Small businesses can often install and configure new systems in days, while larger enterprises with multiple locations may require a few weeks to ensure every site is properly integrated.
Ready to take your physical security to the next level with next-gen video intelligence? Get started with Spot AI today.
About the author: Rish Gupta (CEO & Co-founder)
Rish brings extensive expertise in business security, market trends, and industry challenges. With years of experience leading organizations through pivotal security transformations, he is committed to helping businesses unlock the full potential of modern video intelligence solutions.
