Which CCTV cameras are best for the street: types and TOP 10 best models

When wondering which outdoor surveillance cameras are best to purchase, you should study several models from different manufacturers. They need to be compared by matrix size, viewing angle, operating temperature range and other parameters. The main criteria and an overview of the best models are described in detail in this article.

Types of devices

First of all, you need to understand what types of CCTV cameras there are. There are several characteristics on the basis of which devices are divided into several types.

Analog and digital

One of the main ways to choose an outdoor CCTV camera involves considering 2 types of models - analog and digital. The classification is related to the characteristics of signal conversion. In the first case, it is transformed into an electrical signal, in the second - into a binary code.

Each model has its own pros and cons. Thus, analog cameras have insufficiently high-quality images, but the devices can operate at a distance of up to 500 m without interference. In addition, they cost much less than digital ones, and the video itself runs without freezing.

If we consider how to choose a video camera for outdoor surveillance with high image quality, you can choose high-definition analog cameras (they are abbreviated AHD). They provide fairly high-quality video (1080p) and can also operate at a distance of up to 800 m.

When learning how to choose an outdoor camera, many users choose digital devices. They have several advantages:

• very high quality video (4K resolution);
• the ability to scale and process images by any means;
• a very large number of functions;
• ability to configure (even remotely).

There are also disadvantages. Digital types of street cameras are significantly more expensive; they can be connected with a cable of limited length (within 300 m). You also need to keep in mind that the broadcast is carried out with a slight delay, usually 2-3 seconds.

Cylindrical and dome

When researching which CCTV cameras are best to choose, you should also take into account the design features. Based on this criterion, there are 2 types of models:

1. Cylindrical - they are easy to attach to the facade of a building. The bracket rotates, so you can select any shooting point or change it at one time or another. On the other hand, cylindrical devices are quite vulnerable - they can be easily torn off and stolen. Therefore, it is best to place such cameras at a sufficient height.
2. While studying what other types of CCTV cameras there are, you can also consider dome structures. They are securely fixed to the surface of the ceiling or wall, so such devices cannot be torn off. In addition, dome models fit better into the interior.

Specifications

Now it’s clear what types of CCTV cameras there are. Along with the classification, technical characteristics should also be studied.

Video quality

This is a complex indicator that depends on the characteristics of the matrix and pixel size. If you choose the right outdoor video camera, you should start considering the type of matrix:

1. CCDs are professional-level devices that allow you to get very high-quality video with high detail. At the same time, they are more expensive and quite expensive in terms of electricity.
2. CMOS – the quality is not as good, but the cost and power consumption are lower.

As for the size of the matrix, the pattern is simple: the larger the indicator, the better the picture. Considering what types of video surveillance there are, you can choose models with a size of 1/3 or 1/4.

The pixel size should also be as large as possible. But the quantity must correspond to the size of the matrix. If it is small, the image will be somewhat blurry.

Viewing angle

When wondering what types of surveillance cameras there are, you should pay attention to the viewing angle, that is, the width of the plan that will be available to the camera. The standard indicator is 120-150 degrees, although you can find devices with an angle of up to 360 degrees.

This parameter is also associated with such a characteristic as focal length. If it is large, the viewing angle is small, and vice versa. In this regard, devices can be of 2 types:

1. Monofocal - the focal length and viewing angle are preset and cannot be adjusted.
2. Varifocal - both parameters can be changed by setting the setting manually or automatically.

Other characteristics

Other equally important characteristics include the reliability of the case. Since the device operates outdoors, it must be resistant to temperature, humidity, and sunlight. You can find out more about the operating temperature range and other criteria in the model description.

Top 10 best cameras

You can consider different types of devices, for example, dome or bullet camera, analog or digital.To make the right choice, you should pay attention not only to the technical characteristics, but also to customer reviews. If you rank the best models, you will get the following top 10:

1. Ezviz C3WN – dome device with a viewing angle of 110 degrees and a focal length of 2.8 mm. Equipped with a 256 GB memory card and can work via Wi-Fi.
2. Falcon Eye Patrol – model with a 64 GB memory card, operates at temperatures from -30 to +60 degrees. Provides high-quality 1080p shooting. Can also record sound.
3. Ivideon Bullet – a device with a small viewing angle of 87 degrees, a focal length of 3.6 mm and an IR illumination range of 30 m. It records sound and is equipped with a 256 GB memory card.
4. Hikvision HiWatch DS-I250W shoots high-quality 180p video on a 256 g memory card. Weight is only 370 g, the camera can be mounted on any surface. The bracket design is what this type of surveillance camera looks like.
5. Imou looc – a model with high resolution 1080p and a viewing angle of 130 degrees. Equipped with a sound recording function and works via Wi-Fi. The temperature range is from -20 to +50 degrees. The device weighs just over 300 g.
6. TRASSIR TR-D2121IR3W – camera with a 1/2.7 matrix, IR illumination range of 35 m. Equipped with a 128 GB memory card. Works even in extreme temperatures from -40 to +60 degrees.
7. Hikvision DS-2CD2523G0-IWS – a device with a viewing angle of 102 degrees and a focal length of 4 mm. It also works in a wide temperature range from -40 to +60. IR illumination operates at 10 m.
8. Ezviz LC1 – model with speaker, 2 spotlights and 256 GB memory card. Operates in the range from -30 to +50 degrees. The IR illumination range is 25 m.Here are the best video cameras for outdoor video surveillance that are suitable for high-quality filming.
9. Dahua DH-SD1A203T-GN-W – camera with a 1/2.8 matrix, illumination range of 15 m. Equipped with a 256 GB memory card, operates at temperatures from -40 to +60 degrees.
10. CARCAM CAM-880 – allows you to get high-quality 1080p video. It features a long IR illumination range of 40 m and a lens with a zoom function.

Now it’s clear what types of CCTV cameras there are – their photos and detailed descriptions are presented in the top 10 rating. When choosing a particular model, you need to pay attention to the manufacturer’s brand, as well as the warranty. The more durable the device, the lower the repair costs.