A CCTV camera is one used for your security system and there are several different types. The most common differences are found in the features and whether the camera can be used indoors, outdoors, or both. Let's look at a few types of CCTV cameras and how they are different.
Dome Cameras
A very common type of CCTV camera, dome cameras are used for both indoor and outdoor surveillance. They are dome-shaped and come in many sizes with different colors to choose from. These types of cameras are vandal-proof, offer a wide-angle field of view, and provide unobtrusive surveillance. They can also act as a visual deterrent.
Bullet Cameras
Another type of CCTV camera commonly used with home and business security systems is a bullet camera. This type of camera has a cylindrical shape and may also be called a lipstick camera. It's a weatherproof and waterproof option for indoor and outdoor use, but mainly outdoor use.
Bullet cameras don't provide the same wide-angle field as a dome camera. They are designed to provide better focus and can have a very good range of vision with the right placement. This is a very durable type of camera often used as a deterrent outside. Bullet cameras tend to be larger than dome cameras, too.
PTZ Cameras
Commonly used in security systems with an operator, PTZ cameras offers features allowing the camera to pan, tilt, and zoom. You can move the camera with a joystick to see a specific area better, which is a feature you won't get with bullet cameras or dome cameras.
Day/Night CCTV Cameras
Another commonly used type of CCTV security camera is the day/night camera. This is a type of camera with technology allowing it to go from day to night and still pick up a quality image. Typically, the camera will switch from color to black and white when low light conditions are present.
IP Cameras
A very common type of CCTV camera used with both business and home security systems, an IP camera will allow you to monitor things from anywhere. This type of camera provides real-time footage with an app on your smartphone or over the internet.
While this is a feature of many different types of CCTV cameras, not all cameras will allow you to monitor them from anywhere. However, you can find dome cameras, bullet cameras, and other types of CCTV cameras with this type of feature.
Hidden CCTV Cameras
If you're trying to provide surveillance without being noticed, a hidden or spy camera is a good idea. This type of camera can be very small and blend in so nobody knows it's there. Unlike bullet cameras and dome cameras, these types of CCTV cameras are not easily seen or found when just looking around.
There are many different types of CCTV cameras with different features. Figuring out which one is best for your specific needs isn't always easy. You can hire a professional to assess your security needs and recommend the right CCTV camera for your needs.