Сохранённая копия: Understanding the different types of CCTV security cameras

Types of CCTV Security Cameras Guide

Understanding the different types of CCTV security cameras

Trusted by 100 , 000 + organizations across the globe

What is a CCTV camera?

Common CCTV camera types

Types of CCTV security cameras by form factor

CCTV security camera types by connectivity

Types of security cameras by environment

Types of CCTV security cameras by special features

Choosing the right CCTV system for your property

The best CCTV cameras by use case

Key takeaways from the guide to CCTV security cameras

CCTV cameras are a central component of any effective property security solution, but with many different types of CCTV systems to choose from, selecting the best devices that suit your security needs can be challenging. Property owners must consider important factors like coverage, observation capabilities, maintenance and ease of integration to help ensure that the system works optimally.

Below is a comprehensive guide to different types of CCTV cameras and their use cases to help you understand how different types of surveillance cameras work.

Trusted globally for over 65 years

Durable options for all environments

Built-in analytics for threat detection

Easy integration with existing systems

Explore cameras

A CCTV camera is a type of video security camera that transmits footage to a specific location within a closed system. CCTV stands for closed-circuit television, a type of video security system that broadcasts footage to a limited (closed) group of monitors. Unlike regular television broadcasts, which anyone with a reception device can receive, CCTV footage is intended for a specific audience.

These cameras are commonly used to deter and detect criminal activity. They act as a visible deterrent to would-be criminals and enable security teams to view live footage from one or more secure, closed monitoring positions.

Common CCTV surveillance camera types

Some of the most common types of CCTV surveillance cameras are:

Internet Protocol ( IP ) CCTV cameras

Pan-Tilt-Zoom ( PTZ ) cameras

Panoramic cameras

Night vision CCTV cameras

Turret surveillance cameras

Varifocal lens cameras

License Plate Recognition ( LPR ) cameras

Weatherproof CCTV cameras

Wireless CCTV surveillance cameras

Download your free video security guide

Learn everything you need to know before investing in security cameras, including:

Camera types for different security needs

Core components of a complete CCTV system

Expert guidance on choosing the right cameras

Key considerations for installation and setup

Different types of CCTV cameras have different form factors, which include the camera’s field of view and coverage. Each form factor is designed for a different surveillance need, such as long-range or open-space applications. Here are some common types of CCTV cameras based on their form factor:

Dome surveillance cameras are named for the distinctly shaped casing surrounding the camera’s lens, a design that prevents intruders from seeing where the camera is facing. These types of CCTV cameras provide wide-angle coverage of open spaces like shop floors, restaurants, storage rooms and offices, and can often rotate 360 degrees to offer comprehensive viewing angles.

Discreet appearance

Wide-angle coverage

Tamper-resistant

Poor long-range coverage

Not ideal as a visible crime deterrent

Casing requires frequent cleaning

Bullet surveillance cameras are the most recognizable type of CCTV cameras, featuring a long cylindrical casing that can act as a visible deterrent to would-be intruders. With data suggesting that 60 % of burglars avoid targeting properties with visible video security systems, these types of security cameras are usually installed to cover primary access points and around building perimeters.

Bullet cameras are excellent at capturing high-quality footage at long ranges and typically feature weather-resistant casings designed to support outdoor applications. However, these types of CCTV cameras have a fixed viewing angle that can only be adjusted via manual positioning.

Well-suited for outdoor use

High-quality long-range footage

Can act as a visible deterrent

Poor wide-angle coverage

Fixed viewing angle

Can be an easy target for vandalism

Pan, Tilt, Zoom ( PTZ ) cameras

PTZ surveillance cameras offer the benefit of remote security management, which allows security teams to follow unfolding incidents as they occur. Operators can adjust the camera’s field of view using pan, tilt and zoom controls from an on-site CCTV control room or through a cloud-based platform on a secure smart device, providing real-time observation capabilities.

These types of security cameras are best used in situations where hired security personnel are expected to observe key locations. For example, PTZ technology is used in retail stores to observe high-value goods and in warehouses to follow inventory and real-time activities. PTZ cameras also integrate seamlessly with sensor and alarm systems, enabling staff to detect unusual movements quickly and launch actions when necessary.

Remote security management

High-resolution images

Easy integrations

Require frequent maintenance

Need an operator to adjust viewing angles and get wider coverage

Some types of PTZ cameras can be costly

Turret cameras are similar in design to dome models, although these types of CCTV cameras feature a ball-and-socket mount that enables operators to pivot the device during operation. Turret models are fairly discreet, with durable and compact casings to protect the camera from vandalism. They are ideal for both indoor and outdoor installations.

Compact and discreet

Adjustable field-of-view

Hard-wearing housing

Moving parts can easily break

Not ideal as a visible deterrent

Fisheye cameras

Fisheye surveillance cameras produce an ultra-wide-angle field-of-view to record high-quality panoramic footage with 180 - or 360 -degree coverage. These types of CCTV cameras are often used to view activities in parking lots, retail stores and other wide open spaces. They provide great coverage with minimal blind spots and reduce the need for large multi-camera surveillance solutions.

Extensive coverage with minimal cameras

Easy maintenance

Produces circular images that may need dewarping

Must be removed and reinstalled to adjust placements

Comparatively low-resolution footage

While it is important to choose CCTV systems based on hardware functionality, business and property owners must also consider installation requirements. In some cases, running cabling infrastructure throughout the property may be impossible. Here are some examples to help operators choose the right system based on installation and security camera connectivity requirements:

Wired CCTV camera types

Wired security camera systems rely on a physical network of power and/​or Ethernet cables installed throughout the property for recorded footage to be viewed and stored. Each camera will be connected to its own set of cabling, with the whole network connected to a centralized control room equipped with monitoring stations, storage systems and broadcasting solutions.

These types of CCTV systems are resistant to interference from external devices. They produce a stable video signal and benefit from a constant mains power supply. However, wired systems can be expensive to install and difficult to adjust without reconfiguring existing cable runs.

Unlikely to experience interference

Stable video signal

Constant power supply

Expensive to develop

Requires professional installation

Poor flexibility

Wireless surveillance cameras

Wireless (Wi-Fi) security cameras are far more flexible and easier to install than wired solutions. This type of surveillance camera enables property owners to install hardware almost anywhere and connect cameras to a private Wi-Fi router. Each camera is connected to its own power source, although some models feature internal batteries, and footage is communicated via Wi-Fi signals.

Wireless CCTV camera types are best suited for smaller installations and in situations where developing a cabling infrastructure may be financially or logistically impractical. While wireless installations are incredibly flexible, video signals can be prone to interference and vulnerable to cyber threats, making these types of CCTV systems uncommon in high-risk environments.

Easy to install

Flexible design

Simple to scale

Prone to interference

Vulnerable to cyber threats

Requires constant maintenance

IP or network CCTV cameras

Internet Protocol ( IP ) cameras, also known as network cameras, transmit video footage over a secure Internet connection. Each IP surveillance camera processes and compresses footage internally before sending it to a central control room or remote monitoring platforms to be saved and analyzed.

There are many types of IP cameras, including wireless and wired models, and a wide range of hardware designed around most form factors. Power over Ethernet (PoE) IP cameras are particularly popular, as active cameras can send data and receive power along a single Ethernet cable, which reduces cabling requirements while retaining the benefits of a wired network CCTV solution.

Easy access to data

No need for external processing

Effortless maintenance

Requires cybersecurity protection

High bandwidth demands

Hardware can be expensive

Different CCTV types are designed with specific features that make them ideal to be utilized in specific environments, like interior retail areas or the exteriors of buildings. Some examples of these different types of CCTV cameras are:

Indoor CCTV cameras

Indoor cameras can be small and discreet, as their casings don’t typically need reinforcement or weatherproofing. These types of security cameras are typically used to observe key areas, such as shop floors, inventory storage rooms, reception spaces, offices, and other high-traffic locations. They provide clear video footage and sometimes audio of select indoor environments.

Features to look for:

Night vision or low-light settings

Remote observation capabilities

Wide-angle field-of-view

Third-party integration support

Outdoor CCTV cameras

Outdoor cameras feature hard-wearing casings designed to provide protection against both the elements and potential acts of vandalism. Bulky casings also help these types of CCTV cameras stand out to would-be intruders, acting as a visible deterrent against crimes. Most models include low-light and infrared settings to capture clear footage 24 / 7 .

Outdoor CCTV camera types are usually installed around building perimeters, parking lots, entrances and exits, driveways and access roads to provide a clear view of activities. Panoramic IP cameras are commonly used for outdoor applications due to their 360 -degree coverage from a single vantage point.

IP 66 and above weather-resistant casings

Anti-vandal features or impact-resistant housing

Durable metal camera mounts

Low-light, night vision and infrared settings

Long-range and adjustable field of view

To create an effective surveillance system, property owners may require different types of specialty CCTV cameras to provide ample coverage of all key locations. Teams must assess areas in need of surveillance to select the right devices while considering which features should be prioritized to make sure all key areas are reliably observed at all times.

Day/​night cameras

Day/​night cameras contain highly sensitive imaging chips designed to capture clear video footage in all lighting conditions. While some types of CCTV cameras use infrared illuminators to enhance footage in low-light conditions, day/​night cameras perform this function natively, capturing high-quality footage regardless of the level of light in the target location.

These types of security cameras are best suited for outdoor environments like construction site security that require 24 / 7 observation, but can also be effectively deployed indoors to capture clear footage overnight.

Not affected by glare, direct sunlight or reflections

Capture clear footage 24 / 7

Capture black and white and color images

Infrared or night vision cameras

Infrared ( IR ) cameras are designed to capture clear images in complete darkness, helping security teams observe key locations after hours. IR cameras use special sensors to detect infrared radiation. This data is then processed internally to produce viewable images. As all objects emit infrared radiation, IR cameras can detect activity that normal cameras may miss.

These types of CCTV cameras are best used to observe building perimeters, parking lots and storage facilities overnight. However, IR cameras can be considerably more expensive than day/​night cameras and are typically reserved for high-security installations.

Capture clear footage in complete darkness

Unaffected by fog, smoke and dust

Can auto-switch between day and night settings

Thermal imaging cameras

Thermal imaging cameras are similar to IR cameras, as they also contain infrared sensor arrays, However, these arrays detect heat differences rather than reflected IR radiation. This type of security camera will process detected heat variations to create viewable images, with hotter areas depicted using bright colors to help teams detect activity in low-light conditions.

Thermal cameras can be used to observe key outdoor and indoor locations overnight, although they are also used to observe buildings and machinery for signs of heat loss or overheating.

Can help with maintenance and building management

Thermal radiation travels through visual obstructions

Varifocal security camera types

A security camera with a varifocal lens can zoom in and out of its target area without losing picture quality or focus. Most modern types of CCTV cameras have fixed lenses with digital zoom functions. This means that to zoom in on a picture, the system will expand individual pixels already present in target images, eventually returning blurry and unfocused security footage.

To remedy this issue, varifocal cameras adjust the focal length, viewing angle and level of zoom manually, producing detailed images at multiple focal depths. These types of security cameras are best installed indoors, typically in smaller areas that house high-value assets that may need to be viewed in detail, as well as in areas where using a fixed lens camera may create blind spots.

High-quality zoom functionality

Limited risk of blind spots

Adjustable viewing angles

ANPR and LPR CCTV cameras

Automatic Number Plate Recognition ( ANPR ) and License Plate Reader ( LPR ) cameras come with specialized software that captures and analyzes license plate data associated with passing vehicles. If a car passes through the camera’s field of view, an image of its license plate will be captured and processed by an internal Optical Character Recognition ( OCR ) tool to reveal legible text.

These types of CCTV cameras can be installed to cover main access roads, entrances and exits to parking lots, and around the perimeter of buildings to automatically follow incoming vehicles. LPR cameras can also be integrated with access control and parking management systems to automatically grant or deny property access based on a vehicle’s registration information.

Automatic threat detection capabilities

Easy access control and parking management integrations

Choosing the right types of CCTV systems for your property

It’s crucial to carefully review different types of CCTV cameras based on form factors, connectivity and the environment where security cameras will be placed to determine the right system for you. To ensure that the system you choose will meet your unique security needs, also consider the following factors:

1 . Installation size and scope

Large properties with multiple indoor and outdoor locations will likely benefit from a wired CCTV installation. Different types of security cameras installed in key areas can be connected to a central control room, with multiple remote devices connected to the same solution that enables staff to review security events at all times.

Wireless CCTV camera types may be more appropriate for smaller installations like offices in a shared building. Developing these security camera installation solutions will be less expensive and won’t require structural changes made to the property, while still ensuring key areas are observed.

2 . Storage and remote capabilities

Industry-specific regulations may dictate how security footage can be stored and processed – a consideration that will impact the types of CCTV cameras property owners can choose from. For example, non-Chinese security cameras in Australia are a requirement for government facilities due to the potential risks associated with data privacy. IP cameras may be most appropriate in situations where vast amounts of data are collected, as IP cameras will process footage internally to be stored and organized in a video management system .

If remote security management is required, some form of network solution will need to be developed to allow for real-time communications between cameras and remote devices. In this case, Wi-Fi or IP devices may be ideal.

3 . Maintenance considerations

Cameras with moving parts, such as PTZ and turret cameras, and cameras with anti-vandal casings will need to be tested, maintained and cleaned more than other types of CCTV systems. If resources cannot be set aside for frequent maintenance, it might be more time- and resource-efficient to explore an alternative solution.

4 . Scalability and integration

Because developing a new CCTV installation can be expensive and time-consuming, it is important to consider the longevity of devices. Operators should prioritize types of security cameras that can be integrated into existing systems and solutions designed to support future upgrades to ensure that business CCTV systems can be scaled as needs change.

Modern CCTV cameras are equipped with sophisticated features and AI analytics. For those seeking to deploy intelligent, AI-powered video security, the following camera types are worth considering for various applications.

Commercial environments

The Pelco Sarix Enhanced 4 Series Dome CCTV camera utilizes advanced AI to improve security and operational efficiency for businesses in commercial settings. Real-time video analytics, including object detection and classification, minimizes false alarms and enables rapid threat detection.

Additionally, the built-in microphone lends to greater situational awareness by capturing sound that could indicate a potential threat, such as a break-in attempt. The camera’s compact design and open-platform nature simplify installation and integration with building security systems , providing a flexible security device for businesses that want to better protect assets and help ensure safety in commercial settings.

Vast outdoor environments

The Pelco Spectra Enhanced 8 Series PTZ camera enables operators to control site security with 360 -degree views and up to 30 x long-range zooming capabilities, simplifying operations and helping keep people safe. Equipped with AI , it can automatically respond to potential threats by zooming in on suspicious behavior.

Furthermore, its pan-tilt-zoom functionality enables extensive coverage of large areas, providing versatile video security. As with all Pelco devices, this camera is built on an open platform, meaning that it can seamlessly integrate with any third-party ONVIF-conformant video management systems, including Milestone, Genetec and more.

Hazardous environments

Hazardous environments demand exceptional visibility and situational awareness due to diverse environmental and lighting conditions. The explosion-proof Pelco ExSite Enhanced Bispectral 2 Series PTZ addresses these challenges by integrating visual and thermal imaging for enhanced contextual insight.

Its thermal camera excels at target detection across various conditions, while the visual camera provides superior recognition and identification. Constructed from durable stainless steel, this camera is specifically designed for hazardous and corrosive industries, including onshore and offshore oil and gas, manufacturing and chemical plants.

License plate recognition

For organizations seeking a versatile and easy-to-deploy LPR surveillance camera, the L 6 Q Quick-Deploy LPR camera delivers enhanced safety and security. Combining LPR technology with simple installation and ease of use, this camera triggers when vehicles move at specific speed thresholds, even in total darkness.

When paired with VehicleManager Enterprise, the L 6 Q maximizes efficiency in security and parking operations with cutting-edge analytics and configurable data-sharing capabilities.

Well-designed surveillance systems are essential to help ensure safety in businesses, but developing effective solutions requires a thorough understanding of video surveillance technologies . By reviewing the structural requirements of the property where the system will be installed, identifying security requirements and comparing your specific needs to the different capabilities and features of CCTV systems, you can make an informed decision and find the right solution that fits your business.

How much does a CCTV camera cost?

The cost of CCTV cameras can vary widely depending on features, quality, warranties and other variables. To find out the cost of a CCTV camera, please contact our team of experts, who can provide a free, no-obligation quote.

What is a CCTV camera used for?

A CCTV camera is primarily used for security and building management purposes. CCTV cameras capture live images and transmit footage to a closed group of monitors. From here, security and property management teams can investigate suspicious activities and observe business operations to help ensure a safe and secure working environment.

What is the difference between a CCTV camera and a security camera?

The main difference between a CCTV camera and a security camera is that CCTV cameras always operate on a closed network, whereas security cameras can operate on a closed or open network. CCTV refers to a specific type of system where footage is sent directly to a limited number of monitors; security cameras don’t always use this structure.

Have questions? We can help

Our video security experts can help you implement the right security system for your business.