Different Types of Security Cameras

There’s a massive variety of security camera brands out there – with a seemingly infinite amount of models! It can be hard for the average home or business owner to understand exactly what type of security camera does what; in this blog post, as prepared by the access control and commercial security experts here at UTS Group, we will provide details as to the most common types of security camera varieties commonly on the market today.

Box Security Cameras
These standalone cameras have replaceable internal mechanics. They are sturdy, durable, and can be installed in interior or exterior locations. However, they are bulky and are not the most aesthetically pleasing camera option. They are available in a wide range of customizable options, with different combinations of camera mechanics, lenses, and camera housing. Lenses can be installed in either varifocal or fixed varieties. These cameras are not meant to be hidden, and rather additionally function as deterrents for would be criminals.

Bullet Security Cameras
This camera is pretty much a box security camera in a cylindrical housing. Similar to the box security camera, the bullet security camera can be customized with varifocal or fixed lens options, and can be used in exterior or interior locations. However, they are not customizable like box security cameras, and have permanent lenses and camera housing. Bullet security cameras are much smaller and more discreet than box security cameras. They are ideal for environments with minimal lighting.

Dome Security Cameras
This futuristic and discreet security camera can be placed nearly anywhere, as opposed to the corners where box security cameras and bullet security cameras need to be installed in. They are durable and rather sturdy, and can also be installed in both exterior or interior locations. Due to their small stature and ability to be installed in very discreet areas, dome security cameras are not ideal as preventive or deterrent security cameras, but are ideal at capturing footage – as well as placement in any sort of area with lots of dirt including warehouses and kitchens.

Pan Tilt Zoom Security Cameras
Pan tilt zoom (PTZ) security cameras have the ability to be controlled remotely, with capability for panning, tilting, and zooming through either software based, or mechanical (similar to a video game joystick) controls. Users can program automatic patterns of rotation and zooming, and some PTZ cameras can even automatically track motion. PTZ cameras are ideal for capturing a wider angle of activity, as well as more detailed footage – however, they are usually more expensive than other cameras without PTZ capabilities.

IP Security Cameras
IP Security cameras function as part of a digital security network, and automatically send and receive captured data through the internet to a dedicated network. Usually IP security cameras capture much higher quality images than the typical CCTV security camera, and they store all their data in digital formats, rather than through DVRs. They are very simple to install, and can function as part of a multi-camera network – and since they are wireless, they can be installed and placed nearly anywhere!