Common Types of Security Cameras

Installing a new security camera or camera system may seem like an easy decision. After all, security cameras can improve safety, cut down on crime, and prove invaluable should an unfortunate incident take place.

While the decision to install security measures really is an easy one, selecting the right camera or monitoring system, however, is where the real challenge lies. With so many companies, options, and styles to choose from, it can be overwhelming to determine which best suits your needs.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the most common types of security cameras that we usually recommend as part of our security camera installation service, and explain what they’re best used for in order to help make your decision that much easier.

Box Style Cameras

Our first option is one that pops into most people’s minds when they think “security camera.” The box-style camera is the most commonly used camera for security. These cameras function as any other recording camera will, and they allow a great deal of flexibility in terms of lens customization options. They’re not exactly beautiful, so box style cameras are best suited for outdoor areas, or indoor areas if aesthetics are unimportant.

Dome Security Cameras

Another popular choice is the dome-style camera. These cameras also function as a typical recording camera, but their appeal lies in their discreet shape and size. They can also be used indoors or outdoors, as they’re capable of handling poor weather with ease. Alternatively, dome security cameras are also available in extremely durable casings that are vandalism-resistant.

Pan Tilt Zoom Cameras

Pan, Tilt, and Zoom, or PTZ, cameras are a high-tech favorite for those who seek more control over their security cameras. With the capability for remote operating, these cameras can be changed for a closer viewing scope and adjusted to cover several angles or pan over an area. They can be controlled with a physical joystick or even via remote software and they are able to integrate with technologies like computer systems or smart phones.

Bullet Style Cameras

Meet the box-style camera’s sleek cousin, the bullet security camera. These cameras are far more aesthetically pleasing and also very discreet, particularly when compared to traditional box-style models. These cameras can even be outfitted with IR illuminators, making them viable choices for low-light indoor or outdoor areas.

Day and Night Security Cameras

Similar to the bullet camera, day/night security cameras also rely on infrared features to function well in low-light areas. Unlike the bullet variety, however, these day/night cameras auto-adjust their infrared illuminators to function at high quality during both day and night, eliminating the need for multiple types of camera in a single area.

Thermal Cameras

Thermal cameras are the most unique type of security camera. A viable solution for rough environments, these cameras record the heat patterns of people or animals and can be paired with regular cameras for added security. Though it may sound odd to choose a camera which captures heat patterns, these cameras are invaluable during storms or in dusty, hazy, smoky, or foggy conditions in which regular cameras would be rendered useless.

Selecting the proper security camera can help improve your area’s safety, security, and give you peace of mind, or even evidence, should an unfortunate event occur. While choosing the perfect security camera for your needs may not always be easy, we hope this guide to the most common types of security cameras has proven useful and helped to remove the headache from this difficult decision.

At Streamline Telecom, we pride ourselves on our professional security camera installation service and and are always here help. Our experienced professionals will add security to your area by installing four cameras, four hundred cameras, or anything in between. Contact us today and let’s get started!