IP Cameras Buying Guide

Security is an issue that has attracted more and more attention, not only to protect private or public property from infringement, but also to take better care of the elderly, children or beloved pets at home. So what security products are the most common? That's IP Camera. What is IP Camera? What is the purpose of IP Camera? How to choose IP Camera? Don't worry, keep reading.

Topics in this buying guide:

What is IP Camera?

Types of IP Camera

Standard CCTV Camera vs. Network IP Camera

5 things to consider before buying a IP Camera

What is IP Camera?

An IP camera (Internet Protocol camera), is a type of digital video camera that receives control data and sends image data via the Internet. They are commonly used for surveillance. Unlike analog closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras, they require no local recording device, but only a local area network. Most IP cameras are webcams, but the term IP camera or netcam usually applies only to those used for surveillance that can be directly accessed over a network connection.

Types of IP Cameras

The variety of camera types includes fixed cameras, pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ), wireless, covert, 4K Ultra HD, 1080p and 720p HD, and multi megapixel IP cameras.

In short, there have 11 kinds of IP cameras:
1. Indoor IP cameras - static view
2. Indoor IP cameras - Pan Tilt Zoom (PTZ)
3. Outdoor IP cameras - static view
4. Outdoor IP cameras - Pan Tilt Zoom (PTZ)
5. Colour night vision IP cameras
6. IR night vision cameras
7. 4K Ultra HD cameras
8. 360° IP Cameras
9. Thermal IP Cameras
10. Wireless IP Cameras
11. Covert IP cameras

Standard CCTV Camera vs. Network IP Camera

STANDARD CCTV CAMERAS
A closed-circuit television, also known as CCTV, is a type of surveillance system that relays the feeds from a connected security camera to a targeted location. CCTV uses coax and a power cable. All CCTV Footage is recorded on a DVR (Digital Video Recorder). Benefits of standard cameras include lower costs than IP cameras and easier installation.

1. Helps to curb crime, increasing the protection of properties and businesses.
2. To monitor activities, at home or at the place of work.
3. Generally cheaper than IP to install
4. CCTV can also be used to keep records and collect evidence.
5. With the reduced crime rates, CCTV helps to improve the insurance rate of your home.

NETWORK IP CAMERA
Network IP cameras are the newest development in surveillance, coming into popularity in the last few years. These cameras use your network to connect to your system and share data. This allows the system to grow and change with better flexibility - less reliance on cables and power outlets gives you more control over where cameras are placed. IP Camera networks are equipped with a multi-user system. Which means several users can have access to the cameras via multiple electronic devices.

Network IP cameras are digital video cameras that relay video feeds through a computer network. Unlike the CCTV cameras. IP cameras are equipped with a better quality of pictures, more features on the recording, and the ability to connect a vast number of cameras to the system.

1. They provide enhanced images and feeds.
2. IP cameras today have a much higher resolution than CCTV cameras.
3. The higher resolution of IP cameras results in a much larger field of view when compared to standard cameras.
4. They can be viewed by multiple devices and PC's when connected to a network.
5. IP surveillance systems can be further enhanced to improve its features.