Capturing a recording of fire or theft on camera can help you prepare for faster evacuations next time and store valuable footage that can be used as admissible evidence if a crime has been committed. You must make a conscious effort to keep your property protected from prying eyes and one of the best ways to do so is to install video surveillance systems. IP Cameras and CCTV are two popular choices for modern surveillance cameras.
It’s easy to get confused between the two and how to use of each. But don’t worry – in this comprehensive guide, you will learn about the key differences between CCTV and IP Cameras.
CCTV cameras have been in use since the 1980s and have become incredibly popular. With continuous innovation and evolution in the industry, more technologically advanced video security systems like IP cameras have been introduced in recent years.
What is CCTV?
Closed Circuit Television, or CCTV, is a surveillance system where the video footage captured by the camera is broadcast to a limited number of monitors. These systems are usually made up of wired cameras with cables for transmission. Analogue video surveillance cameras are hooked up to a DVR to allow you to view the digital recording.
What’s an IP Camera?
IP cameras belong to the more evolved generation of surveillance security – these offer better resolution, improved image quality, and more features than all other devices developed for the CCTV environment.
An Internet Protocol Camera is a device that transmits all the data and footage it records over the internet. It allows viewers to view the video feed from anywhere as long as they have a secure connection. Users can either log into a website or an app created by the manufacturer.
There are some major differences between CCTV and IP cameras, which we’ll explore below.
Cost
This is one of the major differences that piques the interest of buyers. It is no secret that CCTV has a lower initial cost than IP cameras. However, the cost difference is insignificant in the long run when the features of CCTV seem outdated. In terms of the cost-benefit relationship and the maintenance costs, CCTV systems can actually be more expensive.
IP systems have a high initial cost but lower ongoing costs and much better longeveity. Since there are no cable connections involved in the installation of IP cameras, the cable costs are also greatly reduced.
Broadcast
IP cameras broadcast footage as a digital stream of data and send it over to the computer network or the NVR via the internet protocol. This means that they require a strong internet connection. They also use power of ethernet, so that a single cable can be used for power supply and video transfer. This eliminates the need to have multiple power cables. However, CCTV sends the signal to the DVR through a coaxial cable, and then it is processed in the DVR for viewing.
Features
IP cameras have better video resolution and picture quality than CCTV cameras. Most IP cameras feature 1096 X 2160P resolution. On the other hand, CCTV usually offers a lower resolution of 960 X 480, though the more expensive models provide HD resolution. They also use Wi-Fi, LAN, and other cellular networks for connectivity, while CCTV uses television to broadcast its signals.
Flexibility
When it comes to the efficacy of CCTV, the strategic positioning of the cameras is important. The cameras communicate through the monitors and recorders, so it’s important to adjust them for optimum view. You can also view videos remotely, but only if the DVR is connected to the internet.
IP cameras use a Network Video recorder unlike the DVR used in CCTV. NVR stores all the digital content captured by IP cameras, making it a simple plug-and-play device. This helps to cover blind spots and installing hidden cameras.
Technology
The underlying technology for these two types of security systems is quite different. IP cameras send real-time data as video footage to a computer network over the internet. You could say that IP cameras are a digitalised version of CCTV with much better video quality. IP cameras also feature advanced recording functions and remote viewing ability.
Expansion
CCTV cameras are connected directly to the base station – this limits the location of cameras as they need to be installed in close proximity. You can also connect a limited number of cameras to a single network, as the DVR can facilitate only up to 32. This is not too much of an issue with IP cameras, as almost any number of cameras can be connected, though they will need additional storage.
Key Takeaways
By now you’ve probably decided which type of surveillance security you are leaning towards. With the development of technology and the increased need for improved surveillance security systems, you should always invest in something that will offer you a greater return. Cost is an important factor, but security is ultimately even more important. With the level of scalability, lower cost over the long-run, advanced features, and other benefits offered by IP cameras, it is arguably the clear choice.
