If you are looking to improve the security of your property, installing an outdoor CCTV cameras are an effective solution. With it, you can monitor your property 24/7 and prevent thieves, criminals, and those with bad intentions from entering your premises.
However, choosing the best outdoor CCTV camera can be challenging, as there are many options available in the market. In this article, we will guide you on how to choose a perfect outdoor CCTV camera by considering various factors.
- Weatherproofing: An outdoor CCTV camera should be designed to withstand harsh weather conditions such as rain, strong winds, and high temperatures. You can choose a camera with an IP rating of 65 or higher, which is weatherproof and can withstand harsh weather conditions.
- Night Vision: It is important to choose an outdoor CCTV camera with good night vision capabilities to ensure clear footage at night. Cameras with infrared technology can capture clear footage even in low-light conditions.
- Resolution: The resolution of CCTV cameras determines the quality of the footage. Cameras with higher resolutions provide clearer images, making it easier to identify objects. For outdoor use, it is recommended to choose a camera with at least 1080p resolution.
- Field of view (lens): The lens of the camera determines how much area it can cover. For outdoor use, it is recommended to choose cameras with a wide-angle lens to cover a larger area.
- Remote access: Choose a camera that can be remotely accessed so that you can view the footage of your property from anywhere in the world using your smartphone or computer.
If you are looking for the best outdoor CCTV camera for your property, then pay attention to these factors so that you can choose a camera that meets your security needs, is reliable, and provides high-quality footage.
In conclusion, outdoor CCTV cameras are an effective solution for improving home and business security, providing you with peace of mind.
Why Outdoor CCTV Cameras are Important for Home and Business Security
Outdoor CCTV cameras are essential for both homes and businesses because they provide a security shield against criminal activities and deter people from engaging in illegal activities.
If an incident occurs on your premises, footage captured by the security camera can be helpful in identifying the culprit and catching them. Additionally, you can use it to monitor the people coming and going on your premises, which is particularly important for businesses as it helps you keep track of your employees, vendors, and customers.
Weatherproofing - The importance of weatherproofing for outdoor CCTV cameras
Outdoor CCTV cameras are installed in open-air environments where harsh weather conditions such as heavy rain, strong winds, dust, and high temperatures prevail, which is why weatherproofing is an important factor to consider before purchasing. Failure to have proper weatherproofing can result in the camera’s internal components deteriorating, rendering it ineffective or useless.
Water damage is the most common cause of outdoor CCTV camera failure. If water enters the camera housing, it can damage the internal electronic components, causing short circuits, power failures, or other issues. Similarly, high temperatures can cause the camera’s circuits to expand or contract, resulting in permanent damage or failure.
Weatherproof outdoor CCTV cameras are designed to withstand harsh outdoor weather conditions. Often, they come with an Ingress Protection (IP) rating that indicates how well the camera can withstand dust and heavy rain. For instance, an IP66 rating indicates that the camera can withstand heavy rain and dust.
In conclusion, weatherproofing is a necessary consideration when choosing an outdoor CCTV camera because it ensures that the camera will operate effectively even in harsh weather conditions and continuously monitor your property.
What is Ingress Protection rating (IP Rating) in outdoor CCTV cameras
IP rating stands for Ingress Protection rating, which is a standardized code used by electronic equipment to indicate the level of protection against dust and water. Before purchasing an outdoor CCTV camera, it’s important to check its IP rating to determine how well it can withstand dust, water, and harsh weather conditions.
The IP rating system consists of two numbers, each with a specific meaning. The first number indicates the level of protection against solid objects such as dust, while the second number indicates the level of protection against liquids such as water. The higher the IP rating, the better the protection level.
The following table shows the meaning of each number in the IP rating system.
First Digit protection against solids | Second Digit protection against liquid |
0: No protection | 0: No protection |
1: protected against objects larger than 50mm (e.g. a hand) | 1: protection against dripping water |
2: Protected against objects larger than 12.5mm (e.g. fingers) | 2: Protected against dripping water when tilted up to 15 degrees |
3: Protected against objects larger than 2.5mm (e.g. tools and thick wires) | 3: Protected against spraying water · |
4: Protected against objects larger than 1mm (e.g. small wires) | 4: Protected against splashing water · |
5: Dust protected (dust cannot enter the camera completely, but some may enter in minimal amounts) | 5: Protected against water jets · |
6: Dust tight (complete protection against dust) | 6: Protected against powerful water jets · |
· | 7: Protected against temporary immersion in water |
· | 8: Protected against continuous immersion in water |
For example, if an outdoor CCTV camera has an IP66 rating, the first number indicates that the camera is dust-tight, meaning it has complete protection against dust, and the second number indicates that it can withstand high-pressure water jets from any direction. Therefore, it can easily handle heavy rain and harsh weather conditions.
Overall, when you plan to purchase an outdoor camera, be sure to pay attention to the IP rating, as it ensures that you are buying a camera that is suitable for your property’s weather conditions and provides effective security.
Examples of weatherproof outdoor CCTV cameras on the market
Nowadays, there are many weatherproof outdoor CCTV cameras available in the market. Here are some popular examples of cameras that are ready to withstand harsh weather conditions.
CP PLUS CP-V41A
This wireless outdoor camera is rated IP65, which means it’s protected against dust and water jets from any direction. It features 1440p HD 4MP resolution, night vision up to 49 feet., and two-way audio.
EZVIZ C3N Color Night Vision
This weatherproof camera is rated IP67 and can withstand temperatures from -22°F to 140°F. It features 1080p HD resolution, night vision up to 98 feet.
TP-Link Tapo C320WS
This wireless outdoor camera is rated IP66 and can withstand harsh weather condition. It features 2K resolution, color night vision, and two-way audio.
Amcrest UltraHD 4K Dome Camera
This weatherproof dome camera is rated IP67 and can withstand extreme temperatures from -22°F to 140°F. It features 4K UltraHD resolution, a 112° viewing angle, and night vision up to 98 feet.
Amcrest UltraHD 4K Outdoor Bullet POE IP Camera
This weatherproof camera is rated IP67 and can withstand harsh weather condition. It features 4K UltraHD resolution, a 105° viewing angle, and night vision up to 131 feet.
These are just some examples of the many weatherproof outdoor CCTV cameras available in the market. When you are purchasing an outdoor CCTV camera, choose a reliable and effective surveillance camera based on your specific needs and environmental conditions.
The importance of night vision for outdoor CCTV cameras
This is a very important feature for outdoor CCTV cameras because it allows the camera to capture clear and detailed footage even in low light or complete darkness. Without this feature, outdoor cameras will not be able to detect potential threats such as intruders at night.
Different types of night vision technology
There are various types of night-vision technology used in outdoor CCTV cameras, each with its own strengths and weaknesses.
Below are some common types:
Infrared (IR) Night Vision
This is a very common type of night vision technology used in outdoor CCTV cameras. It involves a set of IR LEDs that emit invisible infrared light to illuminate the area in front of the camera. The camera’s image sensor then detects the reflected infrared light and creates a visible image for the viewer. This technology is effective in low light or complete darkness but has a limited range. It is used in most cameras on the market today.
Low-light imaging technology: There are two components to this technology: a large image sensor and sophisticated algorithms. Both are used to capture more light in low-light conditions to create a clear image. This technology is not as effective in complete darkness as IR night vision, which has some LEDs that emit some light. However, even without any light, low-light imaging technology can create a clear image in an open area.
Thermal imaging technology
This technology creates an image by using an object’s heat signature, detecting invisible threats that are not visible to the naked eye. Thermal imaging technology is effective in complete darkness and can detect uncleared objects, including those that are obscured by plants, leaves, or other obstacles. However, thermal imaging is more expensive than other night vision technologies.
Starlight Technology
This is a new type of low-light imaging technology that can create a clear image even in very low-light conditions. It has a large image sensor and advanced image processing algorithms that capture more light and produce a brighter, clearer image. Starlight cameras are more expensive than low-light imaging technology cameras, but they are very effective in low-light situations.
Examples of outdoor CCTV cameras with good night vision capabilities
It is essential to consider night vision capabilities when choosing an outdoor CCTV camera. Choose cameras with appropriate IR illumination systems or advanced low-light imaging technology that can capture clear and detailed footage in low-light conditions. Good night vision technology will ensure the safety of your property 24/7 and give you peace of mind.
When selecting an outdoor CCTV camera, it is essential to consider the types of night vision technology based on your needs and environment. You must keep special factors such as lighting conditions, range, and budget in mind to choose an effective camera for your environment.
Here are some examples of outdoor CCTV cameras that use excellent night vision technology.
Trueview 4G SIM Mini Pan Tilt CCTV Camera 3MP
This outdoor camera is equipped with IR night vision and can capture clear images up to a distance of 100 feet. . It also features a 3 MP 2304×1296 resolution and Light Mode Full color/Infrared/Intelligent for high-quality video footage
CP PLUS 4MP Outdoor Smart Wi-fi PT Camera
This outdoor camera is equipped with IR night vision and can capture clear images up to a distance of 66 feet. . It also features a 4 MP 2560 x 1440 resolution for high-quality video footage
Imou DAHUA Cruiser SE 4MP WiFi PT Color Night Vision Camera
This outdoor camera is 4MP sensor and advanced IR algorithms provide crystal clear video both day and night and infrared mode advanced IR algorithms provide clear black-and-white pictures even in darkness and smart night vision modes provide clear full color or black-and-white pictures, even in complete darkness.
Active Pixel 4mp WiFi Outdoor CCTV Camera | Wireless Outdoor Security
This outdoor camera is equipped with night vision and can capture clear images up to a distance of 131 feet. It also features a 4 MP
These cameras are just a few of the good night vision outdoor CCTV cameras available in the market. When choosing a camera, keep in mind the quality of the image, range, and specific needs that are necessary for your environment so that you can choose a camera that can fulfil your security requirements.
The importance of resolution for outdoor CCTV cameras
Images are made up of pixels, and the camera’s resolution determines how many pixels will be in the images captured by that camera. The higher the number of pixels in an image, the higher its resolution, and the better its quality will be.
When choosing an outdoor CCTV camera, it is important to know the camera’s resolution because it affects the quality of the video footage captured by the camera. For outdoor CCTV cameras, high resolution is particularly important because it helps to capture important details such as license plates, vehicle numbers, faces, and other identifying features. This can help identify criminals or other individuals involved in unlawful activities and can be very useful in prosecuting them. When choosing an outdoor CCTV camera, it is important to consider your specific needs in terms of resolution.
High-resolution cameras are generally more expensive, but they offer better image quality and more detailed footage. On the other hand, low-resolution cameras are cheaper, but they may not capture the necessary details for effective security monitoring. Common resolutions for outdoor CCTV cameras include 720p, 1080p, 4K, and higher.
In outdoor CCTV cameras, the resolution typically refers to 720p, 1080p, 4K, or higher. Generally, the higher the resolution of an image, the better its quality will be. However, other factors such as lighting conditions, camera placement, and image processing technology also affect the quality of the footage captured.
In summary, resolution is an important factor to consider when choosing an outdoor CCTV camera. High-resolution cameras offer better image quality and more detailed footage, which can be critical for identifying and prosecuting criminals. When choosing a camera, it is important to consider your specific needs in terms of resolution and the features that the camera offers.
Comparison of different resolution options (e.g. 720p vs. 1080p vs. 4K)
In outdoor CCTV cameras, there are different resolution options available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a comparison of some of the most common resolution options:
- 720p: This is the lowest resolution option for outdoor CCTV cameras, with a resolution of 1280 x 720 pixels. Cameras with this resolution are typically the least expensive, but they provide lower image quality and cannot capture fine details.
- 1080p: Cameras with a 1080p resolution provide higher image quality, with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. These cameras are a good option for outdoor environments and can capture fine details, such as license plates or individuals that need to be identified.
- 4K: This is currently the best resolution option for outdoor CCTV cameras, with a resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels. Cameras with this resolution offer the best image quality and can capture even finer details than those with 1080p resolution, but they are also the most expensive option.
When comparing the resolution of outdoor CCTV cameras, it’s important to consider your specific environmental needs so you can choose the right option based on your environment and budget.
In summary, when choosing an outdoor CCTV camera, you should consider factors such as image quality, level of detail, and budget when selecting a resolution option that fits your needs.
The importance of field of view (Lens) for outdoor CCTV cameras
The field of view, which refers to the camera lens, is a factor to consider when choosing an outdoor CCTV camera. For outdoor environments, a wider field of view can be beneficial because it allows you to cover a larger area with a single camera. This can be especially useful when monitoring a large outdoor area for security purposes.
However, a wider field of view also has some disadvantages. When a camera has a wide field of view, it may not capture as much detail as a camera with a narrower field of view. This means that details such as licence plate numbers or facial features may not be clear enough to identify wrongdoers and prosecute them.
When choosing an outdoor CCTV camera, it’s important to consider the specific needs of your environment and select a camera that offers a balance between field of view and image detail. For example, if you need to monitor a large outdoor area, a camera with a wider field of view may be more suitable. But if you need to capture fine details such as licence plates or facial features, a camera with a narrower field of view would be better.
In summary, when choosing an outdoor CCTV camera, it’s important to consider the field of view. A wider field of view is beneficial for monitoring large outdoor areas, but it may sacrifice image detail. When selecting a camera, it’s crucial to keep in mind the specific needs of your environment and choose a camera that offers a balance between field of view and image detail.
Different types of lenses and their coverage areas
Outdoor CCTV cameras come with different types of lenses, and they cover an area based on their lens. Here are some main types of lenses and their coverage areas:
- Fixed lenses: These lenses come with a fixed focal length, meaning they cannot be adjusted. They typically come with a narrow coverage area, such as 20 degrees or less. Fixed lenses can be used to monitor small outdoor areas, such as a doorway or a small outdoor space.
- Varifocal lenses: These lenses can be used to adjust the focal length and coverage area range. They typically come with a coverage area range of 20 to 90 degrees. Varifocal lenses are suitable for monitoring large outdoor areas, as they allow you to adjust the coverage area according to your needs.
- Pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) lenses: These lenses have a motor that can be remotely controlled to pan, tilt, and zoom. They typically come with a coverage area of 360 degrees, meaning they can monitor a large outdoor area. PTZ lenses are suitable for monitoring large outdoor areas where zooming in on a specific area is necessary.
When choosing an outdoor CCTV camera, you should select the appropriate lens based on the specific location of your property. If you need to monitor a small outdoor space, a fixed-lens camera is sufficient. However, if you need to monitor a large outdoor area, you should choose a camera with a varifocal or PTZ lens.
Outdoor CCTV cameras with wide-angle lenses
Here are a few examples of outdoor CCTV cameras with wide-angle lenses
Mi 360° 1080P WiFi Smart Security Camera
This camera has a 360-degree panoramic view with a 1080P high-resolution lens. It has infrared night vision and is waterproof, making it suitable for outdoor use.
TP-Link Tapo C310 Outdoor Security Camera
This camera has a 3MP high-resolution lens with a 130-degree wide-angle view. It also has night vision up to 98 feet and is weatherproof.
D-Link DCS-4602EV Vigilance Full HD Outdoor Dome Network Camera
This camera has a 2MP full HD lens with a 90-degree wide-angle view. It has night vision up to 60 feet and is weatherproof and vandal-proof.
Dahua- 2MP Entry IR Fixed Focal Bullet Network Camera
This camera has a 2MP high-resolution lens with a 84-degree wide-angle view. It has night vision up to 164 feet and is weatherproof.
When choosing an outdoor CCTV camera with a wide-angle lens, you need to consider the specific needs of your environment and choose a camera that offers the right balance between coverage area and image detail.
The importance of remote access for outdoor CCTV cameras
Remote access is crucial for outdoor CCTV cameras because it provides you with the ability to access the camera’s feed from anywhere and at any time. This is especially important for businesses and homeowners who want to keep an eye on their property from a distance.
Remote access allows you to view live or recorded footage through your computer, smartphone, or tablet. This means that if you receive an alert or notification from the camera while you are away from your property, you can quickly view the footage and see what is happening.
Some outdoor CCTV cameras also have two-way audio, which allows you to communicate with anyone in the camera’s view. You can use it to greet a new guest or even issue a live warning to a potential intruder.
Remote access also allows you to adjust the camera’s settings, such as changing the resolution, adjusting the field of view, or setting motion detection alerts.
When choosing an outdoor CCTV camera, look for one that has remote access and two-way audio capabilities. This will allow you to monitor your property and quickly react to any potential security threats, no matter where you are.
Different ways to access footage remotely (e.g. mobile app, web browser)
There are several ways to remotely access footage from outdoor CCTV cameras. Some common methods include:
- Mobile app: Some outdoor CCTV cameras come with a mobile app that can be installed on your smartphone or tablet, allowing you to view the camera’s footage remotely. This is a convenient feature, as you can check on your property even when you’re out and about.
- Web browser: Some outdoor CCTV cameras allow you to access the footage through a web browser, which is useful when you don’t have your smartphone with you.
- Cloud storage: Some outdoor CCTV cameras offer cloud storage, which allows you to access the footage through an internet connection without the need for a physical storage device.
- Email notifications: Some outdoor CCTV cameras can be set up to send email notifications when motion is detected, including a snapshot of the event. This is a quick and easy way to check on your property without having to access the camera’s footage directly.
When choosing an outdoor CCTV camera, consider the various options for remotely accessing footage and select a camera that offers the most convenient methods for you.
