What CCTV camera resolution do I need?
The appropriate CCTV camera resolution depends on your specific needs and the requirements of the surveillance area. Resolution is typically measured in terms of pixels, and higher resolution cameras generally provide clearer and more detailed images. Here are some general guidelines to help you choose the right resolution for your CCTV cameras:
1. 720p (HD): This resolution (1280 x 720 pixels) is suitable for basic surveillance needs, such as monitoring small businesses or residential areas. It provides a decent level of detail for identifying people and objects.
2. 1080p (2MP/Full HD): Cameras with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels offer better clarity and detail than 720p. This is a good choice for general surveillance in larger spaces or areas where more detailed images are required.
3. 2K (4MP/1440p): A resolution of 2560 x 1440 pixels provides even higher clarity and is suitable for more demanding applications, such as retail environments or areas where facial recognition is important.
4. 4K (8MP/Ultra HD): Cameras with a resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels (4K) offer extremely high detail and are ideal for large areas or critical applications where the finest details need to be captured.
When choosing the right resolution, consider factors such as the size of the area you want to monitor, the level of detail required, and the distance between the camera and the subject. Keep in mind that higher resolution cameras may also require more storage space for recorded footage. Additionally, other factors like frame rate, low-light performance, and lens quality also play a role in the overall effectiveness of a CCTV system.
The camera resolution required will depend on whether you want to detect, observe, recognize or identify. We typically use HD CCTV cameras with between 3 and 8-megapixel resolution (8MP CCTV cameras are termed 4K CCTV cameras). You will require 40 pixels per face or 5 pixels/cm for identification. Our designers will ensure that suitable CCTV cameras are selected for your system.