A Guide to the Different Types of Security Cameras

Security cameras are an essential component of any residential or commercial security system. However, because there are so many different types of security cameras on the market and specific cameras are better suited to certain scenarios than others, determining which one is best for your home or business can be difficult.

Surveillance is a significant aspect of today’s culture, making our daily lives more secure by the day. Given the technological breakthroughs in image quality, smart technology, and wireless capabilities, it’s critical that you understand all of the different types of security cameras available, as well as their advantages and disadvantages, to choose the best solution for your needs.

Continue reading below to learn more about the various security camera types and how U.S. Protective Services can help you choose the best security solution for your home or commercial business.

The Different Types of Security Cameras

While most security cameras serve the same purpose and have some similarities, there are some key differences to be aware of. Below, we’ll examine the various types of security cameras, what makes each system unique, and the various roles each camera performs, making them better suited for some locations than others.

Box Camera

Derived from their boxy look, box cameras are one of the most popular types of security cameras, primarily due to their high customizability. From the level of weather resistance, lens type, resolution, signal type, and whether your camera is wired or wireless, nearly everything with a box camera can be tailored to your exact requirements.

Because they are so customizable, box cameras can also be customized after purchase, allowing you to easily replace various components on the camera depending on your needs.

Main Benefits

• Weather-Resistant
• Highly Customizable
• Wired or Wireless Use

Dome Camera

Dome cameras are security and surveillance cameras commonly used in indoor and outdoor settings. Because the design allows you to watch a broader angle at your facilities, this is the perfect type of security camera for small shops, restaurants, casinos, hotels, and other hospitality businesses.

Dome cameras can be strategically placed to cover all aspects of an area without being visually invasive due to their dome-shaped casing, making it impossible for people to discern which direction the camera is pointed. They are also more resistant to vandalism than other types of security cameras.

Main Benefits

• Simple to Install
• Indoor or Outdoor Use
• 360-Degree Rotation

Pan, Tilt, and Zoom (PTZ) Camera

Pan, tilt, and zoom (PTZ) cameras receive their name from the camera’s wide range of movement capabilities. These security cameras can move left or right (panning) or up or down (tilting). They can also zoom in or out or remotely adjusted, giving a detailed view of what’s going on inside and outside your home or business.

PTZ cameras are widely popular in large retail settings or businesses with specific items that need extra surveillance. When the camera detects movement, it can also be set to pan to a particular entry or exit point, allowing the camera to cover a considerably large area.

Main Benefits

• 360-Degree Field of Vision
• Optical Zoom
• High Image Resolution

Bullet Camera

Another type of security camera that is commonly used in residential and commercial settings is the bullet camera. Bullet cameras get their name from their long cylindrical shape, which resembles a bullet, and are stationary cameras that can be used in indoor and outdoor settings.

Bullet cameras are very conspicuous and have a distinctive shape. They are typically positioned high on a wall to provide a wide field of view and have the ability to observe long distances. Three significant advantages of using a bullet camera are that they are more versatile, they are easier to keep clean, and they can produce a higher quality image due to their ability to reflect light.

Main Benefits

• High Visibility
• Provides Surveillance Over Long Distances
• Great for All Environments

Network / IP Camera

A network, or Internet Protocol (IP), broadcasts live video to individuals who access the security feed via Wi-Fi. With the click of a few buttons, security footage can be viewed from anywhere in the world, making network/IP cameras an excellent solution for home or business owners who are frequently traveling.

Furthermore, because IP camera footage can be viewed from anywhere with an internet connection, archived footage can be accessed in the same way via a computer, smartphone, or tablet.

Main Benefits

• Remote Access
• Easy Setup
• Low Maintenance

Day / Night Camera

Day/night security cameras are one of the best types of security cameras for properties that require round-the-clock monitoring in outdoor settings. These cameras, which can operate in normal and low-light conditions, save money by not having in-built infrared illuminators because their exceptionally sensitive imaging chips can capture quality video images in the dark.

As a result, these cameras are best suited for outdoor surveillance where infrared security cameras cannot perform optimally.

Main Benefits

• Clear Recording in Low Light Settings
• Records in Color and Black and White
• Casing Protects Against Outdoor Elements

Thermal (FLIR) Camera

Thermal (FLIR) cameras, developed initially for surveillance and military operations, are now widely used in video surveillance systems, allowing individuals to see invisible heat radiation emitted or reflected by all objects, regardless of lighting. Thermal cameras can detect the slightest changes in heat (as little as 0.01°C), provide excellent surveillance in various adverse environments, and have nearly unlimited applications.

Main Benefits

• Great in Low-Light Scenarios
• Few Visual Limitations
• Camouflage Foliage

C-Mount Camera

C-Mount security cameras are the best solution for individuals who want to customize their field of vision. C-Mount cameras are often large and serve as a visible deterrent to criminal activities with detachable lenses that allow for quick adjustments to suit various purposes, allowing the cameras to cover distances of more than 40 feet.

Due to the camera’s dependability in extreme temperatures, C-Mount cameras are widely used in the utility and logistics industries and the food and manufacturing industries.

Main Benefits

• Detachable Allow for Recording Beyond 40 Feet
• Weatherproof-Housing 
• Highly Visible to Deter Criminals

Speak With Our Security Experts Today

Selecting the best security cameras for your home or business requires a great deal of research. Regardless of the security camera system you choose, your decision will largely be determined by your needs, wants, and budget and ensuring that it can function alongside your pre-existing security systems.

If you’re still having trouble deciding on the best type of security camera for your home or commercial business, U.S. Protective Services is here to help.

At U.S. Protective Services, we believe our customers should get the most out of their security investment, and we remain dedicated to providing industry-leading quality and customer service with each of our custom-tailored security systems.

 We’ve been providing comprehensive security solutions to commercial businesses and residential homeowners for more than 50 years, and we can’t wait to learn more about how we can help you get the peace of mind you deserve.

To learn more about our wide range of professional-grade security systems, contact U.S. Protective Services to speak with one of our security experts about how we can find the best security solution for your needs.