Alarm System vs CCTV: Which One Does Your Business Really Need?
You’ve decided your business needs security. Smart move. But now you’re stuck. Do you get an alarm system? CCTV cameras? Both?
If you’ve been googling this for weeks and still putting it off, you’re not alone. Confused buyers don’t buy. We get it. The jargon, the price tags, the sales reps… it’s a lot. This guide will clear things up. A simple breakdown of what each system does, what it costs, and who it’s best for.
By the end, you’ll know exactly what fits your business. The only question left will be how secure you want to be.
Alarm Systems vs CCTV Cameras: What’s the Difference?
Let’s break it down.
Alarm Systems
Think of these as reaction tools. They don’t watch 24/7, but they trigger alerts when something suspicious happens.
What they do:
- Detect break-ins, motion, door/window openings
- Trigger loud sirens to scare off intruders
- Notify you or a monitoring team instantly
Pros:
✅ Great for after-hours protection
✅ Affordable entry point
✅ Can integrate with other smart systems
Cons:
❌ Won’t show you what happened, no footage
❌ Can’t monitor general activity during business hours
CCTV Systems
CCTV (Closed-Circuit Television) is all about visibility. These are your watchful eyes, recording everything in real-time.
What they do:
- Monitor and record live footage of your space
- Allow remote viewing through phone or desktop
- Act as a strong visual deterrent for thieves
Pros:
✅ Crystal-clear video footage (especially newer systems)
✅ Long-term storage options
✅ Helps with internal issues like employee theft or disputes
Cons:
❌ Higher upfront cost
❌ Needs regular maintenance and storage management
Let’s Talk Pricing (for Canadian Businesses)
We know cost is a big deal. So here’s a rough breakdown based on averages in Canada:
Alarm Systems
- Basic setup (motion sensors, door sensors, control panel): $300–$700
- Monthly monitoring (optional): $20–$50/month
- Installation: Often included or around $100–$200
CCTV Systems
- Basic 2–4 camera setup: $700–$1,500+
- High-end with storage/server options: $2,000+
- Installation: $300–$800 depending on wiring and setup
- Ongoing maintenance: Minor, but budget a little for repairs or upgrades
Can you have both?
Yes, and many businesses do. Alarms notify you instantly, while cameras give you the footage to back it up. Think of it as a complete security setup.
On a tight budget?
Start small. Most systems are modular, so you can begin with alarms and scale up to cameras as your needs (or budget) grow.
Which One Should You Get?
Here’s the truth, most businesses benefit from both. But if you’re on a tight budget or just getting started, here’s a quick guide:
| Your Situation | Best Pick |
| You want a basic deterrent that alerts you | Alarm System |
| You want to see what happens and have proof | CCTV System |
| You’ve had past incidents or handle cash | Both |
| You’re rarely on-site | Both |
What We Recommend
At Alarm Guard, we help business owners find the right fit. No upsells. No tech talk. Just what your business actually needs. Whether you’re looking to keep it simple or build a full-scale system with video and alarms, we’ll guide you through it.
Book a quick consultation with us today. Call us at 1-866-282-3331 and let’s get your business protected.
