As was mentioned, there's a large price range with security cameras. I've found that ACTi offers some good mid-range IP cameras with balanced features and realistic prices.
One of their newer models, the KCM-7311 (
http://www.acti.com/product/detail/Fixed_Dome_Camera/KCM-7311), is outdoor-rated and provides great resolution for consumer security purposes. Glance at the specs and you'll see that it is much more advanced than what you'll find in BB, HD and such.
• 1/3.2" Progressive Scan CMOS
• Day and night function with mechanical IR cut filter
• Minimum illumination 0.05 lux at F1.4
• 3.6 x optical zoom
• Built-in f3.3-12 mm / F1.4 Megapixel P-Iris zoom lens
• 8 fps at 2032 x 1920 resolution (1422 TV lines)
• Selectable H.264, MPEG-4 SP, MJPEG compressions with dual streaming
• Up to 4 cropped regions as independent channels
• Two-way audio
• Digital input and digital output
• MicroSD / MicroSDHC card slot for local storage
• ExDR ( Extreme Dynamic Range)
• 2D+3D Digital noise reduction
• Vandal proof and weatherproof IP66 rated casing
• Powered by PoE Class 3 / DC 12V
These will run you more than something made by D-Link that you'd find at Fry's, but they're in a different performance category. Not affiliated with these folks, just a customer. Axis is another common mid/high-end brand.
Common options to consider include:
• Low-light / night operation
• DVR/monitoring software (should be included)
• Backup power source (doesn't have to be integrated in the camera)
• Local storage (in case your DVR link is cut)
