What types of surveillance cameras are there?

We could divide the current surveillance camera market into two types. We have just mentioned the so-called “analog” cameras, as well as the cameras with “IP” technology . If these terms don’t mean anything to you, don’t worry! In this section of our comparative guide, we explain in more detail the main characteristics of these devices, and the differences between them.

Analog cameras

• Devices running on older technologies.
• Generally reduced price, but at the expense of image quality.
• The image is transmitted analog and initially measured in TV lines (TVL). However, newer models are now measured in pixels.
• A video storage system and coaxial type cable are required for installation and operation.
• Each function requires the use of a specific cable: one for audio, one for sound, and another for power. This can result in higher than desired costs.
• A digital video recorder (DVR) is generally used, although sequencers or multiplexes can also be considered.

Digital or IP cameras

• Intended to be viewed via the Internet, via a local network or a WiFi network.
• Can operate wirelessly, via coaxial cable, or via UTP (twisted pair) cable.
• Provide more viewing options, such as zooming, to make facial recognition and motion detection easier.
• Storage method usually through an SD memory card or through a cloud service. A network video recorder (NVR) can however be used just as well.
• Image resolution is much higher up to 1080P and videos in HD and even 4K in the most sophisticated models.
• Installation made easy by the possibility of using a WiFi network. In the case of wired use, only one cable is required. It is used for power, video, audio and control at the same time.

Other Types of Surveillance Cameras

Security cameras can also be categorized by their design and shape:

• Dome: The most popular model for home or small business use. They have a “dome” shape, with a lens in the center. Those that have a night vision function also have infrared LEDs incorporated around the lens.
• Bullet: More elongated design, they are also very popular in homes and small businesses. They are generally suitable for outdoor use. Infrared LEDs surround its lens, located in the center.
• Body: Elongated design, but this time rectangular in shape, with a separate lens on the front. These professional cameras are generally designed for larger businesses. Which lens to use with these cameras depends on the desired effect.
• PTZ: Its initials stand for “Pan” (rotation), “Tilt” (tilt) and “Zoom” (approach). They are remotely controllable by means of remote controls. These cameras are intended for strictly professional and demanding use, such as that required by department stores, prisons, parks.

Product Review Examples

With today’s retail world influenced by ever more demanding customers in terms of immediacy and convenience, buying online has unsurprisingly become almost as popular as buying in-store. And surveillance cameras are no exception to this trend. To guide you in your choice, we present here a list of the best surveillance cameras, the most appreciated and the best-selling on the Internet, developed thanks to the tests and opinions of users.

The pros and cons described in customer reviews

Easy to install, the device only requires a WiFi network and a high-speed Internet connection. The supplied app offers interesting possibilities, such as remote activation of the lighting.

You will be able to access HD images and videos at 1080P resolution at any time, in streaming or live, with the recordings being stored locally on a microSD card. Finally, an HZO protection ensures the tightness of the device by keeping it safe from bad weather and dust.

Advantages

• Watch everything
• can record
• warns
• Smart
• Secured 24 hours a day
• Peace of mind to be able to monitor your home or business anywhere and anytime
• Can help identify potential perpetrators
• Can prevent theft and other types of crime, such as vandalism.

Disadvantages

• Depending on their place of application and their orientation, they can infringe the privacy of third parties and represent a nuisance for these people.
• Likely to be tampered with or deceived, and therefore not to ensure total effectiveness.
• They are not systems which make it possible to prevent any commission of offence, their role is limited to monitoring or at best to dissuading.

The criteria for buying a surveillance camera

You probably think that the function of a surveillance camera is limited to filming and sending an alert in the event of motion detection. You are not completely wrong! However, it is the way of carrying out these functions, and therefore the characteristics specific to each device, which vary. We explain some of the most redundant features in tests and comparisons below, so you can find the best surveillance camera for your needs.

Alerts and application

So that you do not have to be constantly vigilant, it is of paramount importance that your surveillance camera can send alerts to several of your control devices in the event of the detection of an anomaly or suspicious movements. In the event of an incident, this function will inform you instantly.

Some cameras include apps to monitor and control them remotely from your mobile device of choice or your computer. They have the advantage of giving live access to filmed images, on the sole condition that you have an Internet connection. In addition, these applications will allow you to benefit from useful functions, including pausing and activating recording, or changing the direction of the camera lenses.

Facial recognition

Constant technological progress has brought the most sophisticated cameras to the market, equipped with this very useful feature that is facial recognition. Through a program, the camera analyzes and compares segments of video, thereby identifying a person’s physical characteristics and facial features.

If the camera recognizes a person’s face, it does not trigger. The system will therefore not send any alert to the owner. If, on the contrary, the camera fails to identify the individual, it will alert you immediately.

This comparison was not made by the editorial staff of BFMTV.com

The 9 Best Security Cameras 2022

Are you looking for a way to ensure or strengthen the security of your home? Here are devices that you should definitely consider: surveillance cameras. This technology not only contributes to the vigilance and security of your home. It will also be useful for taking care of your loved ones or your pets, for example. The growing insecurity of our environment has unfortunately made the use of this type of device more and more necessary. Offering its buyer constant vigilance, the latter can thus be absent in complete peace of mind. In this comparative guide, we will cover the main elements to consider if you are considering purchasing one or more surveillance cameras.

Surveillance camera list of the best products 2022

Last update: 29.04.2022

Price range

What is a surveillance camera?

Surveillance cameras are video-vigilance devices recording the activities of individuals in a specific place. Their purpose is to detect criminal conduct and identify those responsible, or better still, to prevent it.

Due to the increasing lack of security in our environments, the feeling of security offered by surveillance cameras is a major asset. The acquisition of these has become an almost indispensable condition for the tranquility of an owner, when he is absent from his business or his home.

Advantages & areas of application

Surveillance cameras are devices intended to film and monitor a specific area , such as a home or a business, with the aim of ensuring its security. They can deter and prevent the commission of offences, or failing that, facilitate the identification of their perpetrators.

What types of surveillance cameras are there?

We could divide the current surveillance camera market into two types. We have just mentioned the so-called “analog” cameras, as well as the cameras with “IP” technology . If these terms don’t mean anything to you, don’t worry! In this section of our comparative guide, we explain in more detail the main characteristics of these devices, and the differences between them.

Analog cameras

• Devices running on older technologies.
• Generally reduced price, but at the expense of image quality.
• The image is transmitted analog and initially measured in TV lines (TVL). However, newer models are now measured in pixels.
• A video storage system and coaxial type cable are required for installation and operation.
• Each function requires the use of a specific cable: one for audio, one for sound, and another for power. This can result in higher than desired costs.
• A digital video recorder (DVR) is generally used, although sequencers or multiplexes can also be considered.

Digital or IP cameras

• Intended to be viewed via the Internet, via a local network or a WiFi network.
• Can operate wirelessly, via coaxial cable, or via UTP (twisted pair) cable.
• Provide more viewing options, such as zooming, to make facial recognition and motion detection easier.
• Storage method usually through an SD memory card or through a cloud service. A network video recorder (NVR) can however be used just as well.
• Image resolution is much higher up to 1080P and videos in HD and even 4K in the most sophisticated models.
• Installation made easy by the possibility of using a WiFi network. In the case of wired use, only one cable is required. It is used for power, video, audio and control at the same time.

Other Types of Surveillance Cameras

Security cameras can also be categorized by their design and shape:

• Dome: The most popular model for home or small business use. They have a “dome” shape, with a lens in the center. Those that have a night vision function also have infrared LEDs incorporated around the lens.
• Bullet: More elongated design, they are also very popular in homes and small businesses. They are generally suitable for outdoor use. Infrared LEDs surround its lens, located in the center.
• Body: Elongated design, but this time rectangular in shape, with a separate lens on the front. These professional cameras are generally designed for larger businesses. Which lens to use with these cameras depends on the desired effect.
• PTZ: Its initials stand for “Pan” (rotation), “Tilt” (tilt) and “Zoom” (approach). They are remotely controllable by means of remote controls. These cameras are intended for strictly professional and demanding use, such as that required by department stores, prisons, parks.

Product Review Examples

With today’s retail world influenced by ever more demanding customers in terms of immediacy and convenience, buying online has unsurprisingly become almost as popular as buying in-store. And surveillance cameras are no exception to this trend. To guide you in your choice, we present here a list of the best surveillance cameras, the most appreciated and the best-selling on the Internet, developed thanks to the tests and opinions of users.

Sricam 1080P IP

Let’s start our comparison with the Sricam Camera . It is an IP surveillance camera system with 1080P resolution and many protections. In addition to having a 360° viewing angle for optimal coverage, these cameras incorporate 13 infrared LEDs and improved IR night vision technology. Indeed, the Sricam Camera Night Vision guarantees visibility of ten meters in the dark and will remain active throughout your sleep.

Thanks to the two-way audio system and their integrated microphone, they allow you, according to the tests, to communicate in real time with your family. Controllable remotely from your mobile phone with the Sricam App application, this device benefits from easy installation, operating via a WiFi network.

Video 1080P IP

Let’s continue our comparison of the best products with, according to customer reviews, the Victure 1080P IP. No detail will escape you with this Victure IP camera offering high quality FHD images, 1080P resolution and Zoom function. Recorded images can be stored on a micro SD card as well as on a cloud.

However, the monitoring features are not left out. The 9 infrared 850nm LEDs guarantee clear vision up to almost 10 meters in the dark. Plus, motion detection features, two-way audio, and instant security alarms will ensure you sleep and travel peacefully. Note however, this device only supports a connection with 2.4GHz Wifi.

Netvue 1080P FHD IP66

In third position in our comparison, this camera from Netvu e. The brand is committed to providing you with quality video surveillance with this FHD 1080P camera allowing live recording, day and night. This IP60 weatherproof device is intended for outdoor use. It has in particular a night vision mode allowing a vision of a range of nearly 20 meters, without forgetting of course the usual functions of motion detection, and two-way audio.

The device wirelessly records continuous video and uploads it to the cloud for future access needs, although it also supports microSD cards with up to 128GB of storage.

Wansview Q3 IP

In the last position of our comparison according to tests and customer opinions, we have the Wansview brand which offers with the Q3 IP a very affordable model, but offering a lower resolution of 720P. This camera will suit you, however, if image quality is not your main search criterion. It includes two-way audio, continuous recording on SD card or computer, as well as 4 IR LEDs making it possible to see up to 7 meters in complete darkness.

The pros and cons described in customer reviews

Easy to install, the device only requires a WiFi network and a high-speed Internet connection. The supplied app offers interesting possibilities, such as remote activation of the lighting.

You will be able to access HD images and videos at 1080P resolution at any time, in streaming or live, with the recordings being stored locally on a microSD card. Finally, an HZO protection ensures the tightness of the device by keeping it safe from bad weather and dust.

Advantages

• Watch everything
• can record
• warns
• Smart
• Secured 24 hours a day
• Peace of mind to be able to monitor your home or business anywhere and anytime
• Can help identify potential perpetrators
• Can prevent theft and other types of crime, such as vandalism.

Disadvantages

• Depending on their place of application and their orientation, they can infringe the privacy of third parties and represent a nuisance for these people.
• Likely to be tampered with or deceived, and therefore not to ensure total effectiveness.
• They are not systems which make it possible to prevent any commission of offence, their role is limited to monitoring or at best to dissuading.

The criteria for buying a surveillance camera

You probably think that the function of a surveillance camera is limited to filming and sending an alert in the event of motion detection. You are not completely wrong! However, it is the way of carrying out these functions, and therefore the characteristics specific to each device, which vary. We explain some of the most redundant features in tests and comparisons below, so you can find the best surveillance camera for your needs.

Alerts and application

So that you do not have to be constantly vigilant, it is of paramount importance that your surveillance camera can send alerts to several of your control devices in the event of the detection of an anomaly or suspicious movements. In the event of an incident, this function will inform you instantly.

Some cameras include apps to monitor and control them remotely from your mobile device of choice or your computer. They have the advantage of giving live access to filmed images, on the sole condition that you have an Internet connection. In addition, these applications will allow you to benefit from useful functions, including pausing and activating recording, or changing the direction of the camera lenses.

Facial recognition

Constant technological progress has brought the most sophisticated cameras to the market, equipped with this very useful feature that is facial recognition. Through a program, the camera analyzes and compares segments of video, thereby identifying a person’s physical characteristics and facial features.

If the camera recognizes a person’s face, it does not trigger. The system will therefore not send any alert to the owner. If, on the contrary, the camera fails to identify the individual, it will alert you immediately.

Did you know that the first CCTV system was designed by German engineer Walter Bruch in 1942, and was used to control V2 missiles during World War II?

Resolution and night vision

The image quality you want to have will be the main element determining the choice of a surveillance system. This is the criterion you should pay attention to when going to watch product reviews. The resolution of your camera is a very important factor in defining the quality of a CCTV system. With technological advances in the field, you will be able to find cameras with the ability to film in Full HD, and even in 4K. Keep in mind that the higher the resolution, the easier it will be to identify intruders and determine exactly what the camera is recording.

The technology used may, depending on the case, limit the resolution of the surveillance cameras . Indeed, the storage capacities of the recorder will directly determine the image quality. In some cases, archiving in the cloud may cause a drop in resolution, which is then limited to 720P. Conversely, cameras with local storage can take advantage of the maximum resolution, depending on their capacity.

Night vision is an essential feature when acquiring your equipment. Indeed, most crimes such as burglaries take place at night. Some cameras automatically switch to night mode when they perceive a drop in light, others have a timer that will allow you to set a specific time for the mode to be activated.

Viewing angles, tilt and rotation

For a satisfactory use of your camera, elements such as viewing angle, tilt and rotation are essential factors. They determine the amplitude and depth of the field of vision. Of course, this varies from model to model, with some offering a much wider field of vision than others.

A camera capable of rotation will cover a larger area. It can be controlled to direct it in a specific direction. Cameras operating via an application are then much more effective. In this case, your mobile device allows you to remotely control the movements of the lens.

We recommend for your camera a viewing angle of at least 130°, an almost full rotation angle of 355° and a tilt of 80°. In this way, you will benefit from an almost 360° vision offering a complete panorama.

Storage method

The advantage of local storage is that it allows recordings to be kept at high resolution when they are archived. It can be performed on an internal memory card, or even on a recording device. However, it has the disadvantage of not allowing the recovery of recorded data in the event of theft, loss or destruction of the camera.

Motion detectors

Another fundamental characteristic to take into account in YOUR choice, motion detection. It is by means of the detectors that your system will alert you in the event of unusual activity. In the event of the irruption of an individual in your home or any other crime, the system will inform you instantly.

Some more sophisticated camera models can tell the difference between people, animals and automobiles. The presence of this feature will depend on the range and sensitivity of the camera’s detector. The advantage here is to prevent the sending of unnecessary alerts to the user, in the event of the passage of an animal for example.

Two-way audio

We end with a last characteristic, which is not for all that less important. Although the main function of a surveillance camera is to record the image, there is no doubt that its coupling with the recording of sounds makes the system even more efficient. Thanks to the two-way audio function, no sound can escape you. The system will inform you of absolutely everything that happens in the monitored area.

In addition, cameras with the ability to record sounds will allow you to speak through the device, through a small speaker inserted into it. This is an undeniable asset for communicating with a family member present on site, or to intimidate and deter an intruder.

FAQs

How do security cameras work?

Several elements determine the operation of each camera and their specific use, in particular the type of camera, the recording mode (permanent or upon motion detection), and above all its storage medium. Simplifying, however, we could summarize their operation as follows: surveillance cameras send the images filmed to a central unit, responsible for storing them. If they are analog cameras or digital cameras with recorder, the central unit will then transmit them to a device such as a television, a monitor, or a computer. On the other hand, a so-called IP camera will allow it to send these images directly to a mobile device, such as your mobile phone or tablet.

What storage and recording methods exist for surveillance cameras?

We can distinguish 3 different storage methods by which it is possible to save the images filmed by your security camera. As we mentioned earlier, the type of camera (analog or digital) often defines the storage medium. The digital video recorder (DVR according to its English abbreviation) is used to record images from an analog surveillance system. A coaxial cable is required to connect the camera to the video recorder, which then sends the image to a monitor. This method converts the analog signal into a digital signal. In some cases, it is possible to connect them to the Internet and control the camera remotely. The network video recorder (NVR according to its English abbreviation) connects to the digital or IP camera by means of a UTP (twisted pair) network cable. We recommend this method for a camera that cannot accommodate an SD memory card and therefore does not need to convert the signal. Once connected to the network, the camera can be controlled remotely. The SD memory card is used exclusively for cameras that have a port to accommodate them. Generally, cameras support cards whose storage capacity is between 64 and 128GB. Local storage implies the obligation to empty the memory of the SD card once it is full. The absence of a cable and any additional system makes it very practical to use. It is also possible to keep the recording in a cloud.

For whom is the acquisition of a surveillance camera recommended?

Few shops and businesses are permanently occupied. These regular and prolonged absences therefore make them prime targets for burglars and other intruders. Therefore, surveillance cameras are essential devices to provide the owners of these establishments with better security. The user will be able to monitor customers or employees remotely at any time, and thus identify possible crimes. Moreover, these cameras are not just limited to monitoring and controlling your business. They are also very useful for domestic use, our homes being unfortunately subject to the same risks as businesses. Growing insecurity spurring demands for surveillance cameras, it is now possible to find cameras at very democratic prices. However, these may be suitable for basic use. In addition to providing better security for your home, surveillance cameras are also perfect for monitoring small children or pets. They allow you to stay vigilant at all times, from your mobile or tablet.

Are they really waterproof?

Yes, most brands of outdoor cameras are weather resistant as long as they meet international standards IP66 or IP67.

How do I determine how many surveillance cameras I will need?

The best way to determine how many cameras you need is to hire a professional. The objective being to cross the viewing angles, the number of useful cameras will depend on the number of places to be monitored.

Is it possible to record data without a hard disk in the recorder?

No, you will necessarily need a hard drive to record and view the videos.