Types of CCTV for Home Security

When you first start exploring cameras, you'll inevitably face a daunting dilemma. Between DSLRs , point-and-shoots , mirrorless cameras, and even classic film cameras, choosing the right camera can be more complicated than an election.

Similarly, choosing the best outdoor and indoor CCTV systems is even more challenging because the risks of choosing the wrong one can be far more devastating. Imagine a home intruder simply because you chose the wrong CCTV system—it would be more heartbreaking than simply being incompatible with a camera.

Guide to choosing the type of CCTV for the home

Between an affordable DSLR or a lightweight and stylish mirrorless camera with comparable capabilities, there's no 100% "right" choice when it comes to camera selection. Depending on the user type and their intended use, choosing the right camera depends on the context.

Likewise, for security, the choice of CCTV type will depend more on the needs of your home . From indoor or outdoor installation to features like 360-degree rotation, all of these factors will influence the type of CCTV you choose.

For greater clarity, the following discussion of CCTV types can serve as an introduction . With the increasing variety of CCTV types due to technological advancements, research before checking out is clearly a must.

1. Types of CCTV based on technology

Just as photographic cameras are naturally divided into analog and digital cameras, CCTV cameras are also divided into analog and digital. Technologically, digital CCTV, or IP cameras , are far more modern than analog CCTV .

But just like music cassettes and other vintage items that still have fans, analog CCTV also still has certain advantages.

Analog CCTV types - Cheap but less practical

As the name suggests, analog CCTV is a type of CCTV that transmits its recorded data using analog signals over coaxial cables. Despite being an outdated technology, analog CCTV's capabilities still lag significantly behind digital CCTV.

Analog CCTV image quality is still a level below digital CCTV. If sound is required, this type of CCTV is also less than ideal, as it requires an additional digital video recorder (DVR) to record sound.

Compared to internet-connected IP CCTV cameras , analog CCTV footage can only be viewed on a monitor directly connected to the camera. Furthermore, it lacks smart features like smartphone integration and motion detection notifications.

This means that analog CCTV users must be on standby to monitor video footage 24/7 to ensure home security. However, this type of CCTV is less expensive and remains popular among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) for security or monitoring employee well-being in the office.

Types of digital CCTV - Security based on cutting-edge technology

Just as streaming technology made cassette tapes and CDs extinct, digital CCTV is also starting to push analog CCTV out of the market. This type of CCTV that can record sound is often called an IP camera because it uses internet protocol (IP)-based technology.

Using digital compression, digital CCTV can transmit high-resolution video footage directly over the internet. Beyond 2MP cameras with Full HD 1080p video resolution, 8MP IP cameras with 4K video resolution are also widely available on the market.

The transmitted video is also encrypted and can only be accessed on devices with the appropriate authentication. Simply pair the digital CCTV with your smartphone , and you can check the front door while at work directly from the smartphone app.

Compared to analog CCTV cameras, which absolutely require coaxial cables, IP cameras are more practical because they can use Wi-Fi. Problems can arise when installing outdoor IP cameras far from the router , but this can be overcome by using a Wi-Fi extender .

2. Types of CCTV based on connectivity

In this age where everything is wireless , it's easy to forget that there was a time when mice and earphones had to be plugged into a computer. While wireless CCTV has become the standard, wired CCTV is still more reliable.

In crowded conditions, for example, don't expect wireless connections like Wi-Fi or cellular to remain stable. Those who enjoy gaming on computers or consoles will understand that a wired Ethernet connection can be much more stable.

Wired CCTV type - Stable connection, but installation requires effort

In today's market, wired CCTV systems are divided into analog CCTV systems that use coaxial cables, and digital CCTV systems that use Ethernet cables. Of the two, digital CCTV systems that rely on Power over Ethernet (PoE) technology are clearly superior.

PoE CCTV only requires a single Ethernet cable for power and data transmission, simplifying installation. While you'll still need to run cables, this type of CCTV without Wi-Fi is more stable and offers higher capacity than Wi-Fi-enabled CCTV.

The downside is that PoE CCTV requires a PoE-enabled router or switch . Therefore, this type of outdoor CCTV is more often used in professional environments that require impeccable protection, such as banks or sensitive server rooms.

**Types of CCTV wireless - Stable connection, but installation takes effort**

From smart TVs to automatic vacuum cleaners , what aspect of life isn't within the reach of easy Wi-Fi access? As Wi-Fi access becomes more widespread, the use of Wi-Fi CCTV systems is also expanding.

With fully automated initial setup thanks to smart home integration, Wi-Fi CCTV installation is incredibly simple and supports the do-it-yourself (DIY) approach . While it still requires electrical wiring, it's still much simpler than running coaxial or Ethernet cables.

If you want something completely wire-free, there are battery-powered CCTV systems that simply plug into the wall or ceiling. With wireless CCTV, the excuse of complicated installation is no longer valid.

3. Types of CCTV based on installation location

Those experienced in home improvement will understand the difference between exterior and interior paint. With weather that can range from scorching heat to thunderstorms, exterior paint is clearly much more resilient.

Environmental factors also play a role in selecting the type of CCTV. Depending on the installation location, CCTV cameras are divided into outdoor CCTV, indoor CCTV, and doorbell cameras, which can double as both a doorbell and a CCTV camera.

**Types of CCTV outdoor - 24-hour protection against dust and rain**

Living in an equatorial country, the choice is between scorching heat and dust or windy rainstorms—there's never a compromise. With such extreme weather, choosing an outdoor CCTV system must always consider the camera's durability.

Checking the IP rating, which indicates protection against dust and water, is crucial . This is especially true for outdoor PTZ cameras , as even the slightest damage can affect the camera's 360-degree rotation.

Don't forget to also check features like color night vision or LED spotlight to catch thieves who are having fun cosplaying as ninjas.

**Types of CCTV indoor - Monitor children and household help from anywhere**

Unlike rugged outdoor CCTV, indoor CCTV is generally more elegant, primarily due to aesthetic considerations . It would be a shame if a home's interior design is at its best, only to be compromised by a flawed CCTV system.

Beyond aesthetics, indoor CCTV also includes mini CCTV systems , which are flexible and can be hidden away. Unlike the more spacious exterior walls, the interior of a home is undoubtedly much more contained.

As an added value, this flexibility can also be useful because indoor CCTV types are often placed somewhat hidden in case the household assistant is mischievous.

Smart Doorbell Camera - Smart doorbell combined with CCTV

It's not just officials who can hold dual positions; doorbells can now also multitask as CCTV cameras. Doorbell cameras combine the functions of a doorbell and CCTV camera , allowing them to simultaneously greet package deliveries and catch thieves loitering at the door.

This modern doorbell works similarly to an IP camera and is integrated with the smart home ecosystem. Whether you want to check on the situation or greet guests at the front door, you can do it all directly from your smartphone , and it also offers smart features like motion detection .

Additionally, this type of CCTV can also function as an intercom . When a guest rings the doorbell, a video call notification will appear on their smartphone , allowing them to immediately see and chat with the guest at the door.

4. Types of CCTV based on coverage

Since CCTV's primary function is security, coverage is a crucial factor in determining the right type of CCTV. Both fixed CCTV and PTZ cameras, which can rotate 360 degrees, have their own advantages .

In fact, it is not uncommon to use a combination of both to create a comprehensive layer of security at home.

Fixed CCTV - constant protection at vulnerable points

Security issues most often arise from carelessness and negligence. But with fixed CCTV monitoring a specific area 24/7 , even a legendary thief like Lupin would be at a loss.

As a result, fixed CCTV cameras are best suited for protecting home entry points or valuables, such as the front door and garage door. The problem is, the statue-like appearance of fixed CCTV cameras can create blind spots .

Thieves can infiltrate through points that cameras cannot reach, so the location of fixed CCTV installations determines performance . For more comprehensive security, a combination of fixed CCTV cameras can be used to cover each other's blind spots .

CCTV PTZ - flawless 360 degree coverage

Short for Pan-Tilt-Zoom , a PTZ camera is a type of CCTV camera that can rotate horizontally ( Pan ) and vertically ( Tilt ) and magnify image details ( Zoom ) . This zoom can be digital or optical using a telephoto lens similar to a high-end smartphone .

These three characteristics make PTZ CCTV capable of providing comprehensive protection, even for homes with a size of 120 and above. With motion tracking technology , PTZ cameras can continuously track the movements of uninvited guests.

However, this type of CCTV still only has one "eye," and when the camera faces one side, the opposite side is protected . Generally, PTZ cameras are combined with fixed CCTV for more comprehensive protection.

Explanation of the types of CCTV and their functions

Whether wireless or wired , the wide variety of CCTV cameras available today makes upgrading your home security easier than ever. Simply choose the right type of CCTV, and monitoring your home is as easy as opening an app on your smartphone .

Don't miss out! Head to the official BIOTA Smart Home store and secure your home now. With advanced features like night vision and motion detection , BIOTA smart cameras are always your trusted partner for home security!