What Resolution Do I Need for My Security Camera?

A security camera is a sensible investment when it comes to your commercial or residential property. However, it is useless if your resolution isn't up to scratch. The resolution of your camera has many benefits and improves the overall quality of the images it picks up. But what is the best resolution for your security camera?

Let's find out…

What's the difference in CCTV Resolution?

Resolution is how the size of your video or image is measured. The number of puzzles that make the image or video is calculated by its width and height. While smaller images provide lower resolution videos, larger images create high-definition (HD) ones. 

When it comes to CCTV, users require their security cameras to provide stable images both day and night without any compromise in quality. Higher resolution images are also required if you need to zoom into footage that your cameras record, without the content becoming blurry and unclear. 

Many security cameras come with the resolution of  2MP (1080p), 4MP (1440p), 5MP (1920p), and 8MP (4K/2160p). But what’s the difference? 

2MP (1080P) HD Security Cameras:

This resolution is good for basic surveillance but will struggle to show small details clearly. This is a good budget option for battery-powered CCTV, or for locations such as construction sites, vacation homes, or farms. 

4MP (1440P) HD Security Cameras:

These units come with a resolution of 2,560 x 1,440 pixels per unit and are fit for capturing clear images from a distance. They are ideal for surveillance of home entrances, garages, and driveways. 

8MP (4K/2160P) Ultra HD Security Cameras:

8MP pixels provide a high resolution of 3,840 x 2,160 pixels per unit. Which is over 8 million pixels. A 4K camera is recommended for a unit like this as it provides such high video quality. This acts as a future-proof resolution and is ideal for commercial properties, warehouses, and car parks. 

It's also worth considering that multiple security cameras may be required to monitor a large area. If so, a stable network with capable bandwidth may be necessary to transmit your high-definition images. A slow network can result in a lower resolution of images. 

If you have any questions about resolution or CCTV, feel free to get in touch today!