How to compare CCTV cameras?

No one wants to suddenly lose their hard-earned material wealth, so home security is always on people’s minds. Video surveillance systems are in high demand, as they help not only to secure their property, but also to solve various unforeseen situations when, for example, someone illegally enters the site or punctures the tires of a car near the house.

Thanks to surveillance systems, you can solve crimes, which means you can be calm about your property. Our rating of video surveillance systems will help you choose the right model for your home or cottage.

Which CCTV camera is best to buy?

It is impossible to answer this question unambiguously. Firstly, each of us needs a camera for certain purposes, based on which we need to choose a model. Secondly, not a single manufacturer creates a device that is superior in all respects to similar gadgets. After all, such a “super” will be very expensive and, most likely, will not become popular. Creating good gadgets always requires the manufacturer to make compromises. Which camera manufacturer has learned to do this best? Now we'll tell you.

Manufacturers of CCTV cameras

When we look at the list of manufacturers superficially, we are immediately struck by those that we know about from other areas of technology application (for example, smartphone manufacturers):

• Samsung
• Xiaomi

Of course, we have tested such manufacturers through personal experience. However, I don’t recommend buying their cameras or other gadgets right away. Often you have to pay more for a company's big name than for the device itself. In addition, companies that produce only CCTV cameras most likely pay more attention to their quality than those that produce smartphones, household appliances, and much more. Let's look at a list of companies known specifically in the CCTV camera market:

• Hikvision
• Dahua
• Geovision
• Falcon eye
• VStarcam
• Orient
• Rexant

Even the names of most of these companies indicate that their work is aimed at the production of video surveillance devices. Many of them have scientific employees on staff, which ensures the constant introduction of modern technologies in camera production. Gadgets from such companies are reliable and have an acceptable price-quality ratio.

Rating of CCTV cameras

A team of VyborExperta.ru specialists talked with security service employees, electronics store sellers and CCTV camera sales managers to identify criteria for evaluating devices and obtain information that became the basis for compiling the rating. After much thought and comparison of information, we divided the cameras into three groups: for monitoring the house from the inside, inexpensive, advanced outdoor devices.

The basis for adding the device to the rating was not only the opinion of experts, but also user reviews and reviews of the device on the Internet. By doing this, we eliminated the hidden advertising message from our consultants from security services to a specific brand. First of all, we looked at:

• The type and quality of the matrix have a direct impact on the quality of the picture.
• The resolution of the video stream is the ability to see details: faces, license plates.
• Frame rate - sometimes it is important not to miss an important moment that lasts a split second without losing image detail.
• Viewing angle – the area that falls into the lens depends on it.
• Method of connecting to the data storage – a wired connection is not always possible.

Devices that act up in the cold despite the manufacturer’s assurances that they will work at -200 C, sometimes do not save the video stream to a digital medium, lose Wi-Fi connection, fog up at night, show an essentially black screen with noise - all of them were left behind.

Which CCTV cameras are better to use for home or street?

Each manufacturer offers several device options. How to choose the best CCTV camera? We pay attention to the purposes for which we needed this gadget. If we decide to install a camera on the street, then first of all we should take care of its security. Personally, I would not like to see a broken lens or no camera at all a week after installing the device. Therefore, I advise you to choose cameras with vandal-proof housing for outdoor use.

Manufacturers offer more options for the home. Let's just think about whether the camera needs to be hidden or whether it should be visible to others. Hidden cameras must be small in size and have special mounting devices.

What to look for when choosing the best security camera

As already noted, when choosing a camera, we first determine the type that is most suitable for us. CCTV cameras are divided into analog and digital. They differ in the principle of image transmission. In analog cameras, images are transmitted in the form of electrical charges. Such cameras have the following advantages:

• Low cost
• Ease of installation
• Reliability and speed of signal transmission

In digital cameras, the image is converted into computer code and thus transferred to the storage medium. Such cameras are more expensive than analog ones, but have their advantages:

• High sensitivity
• High image resolution

Based on their design, CCTV cameras are divided into:

1. Dome - choose this type if you need to monitor a large room.
2. Box cameras - we use such cameras in cases where it is necessary to monitor, for example, someone’s workplace.
3. PTZ - these cameras are suitable for installation outside buildings. The operator can independently rotate the camera lens. There is also a mode available in which the camera follows a moving object
4. Micro cameras - we use them for secret surveillance, since the micro camera is not visible to others.

After determining the type of camera, we turn to more specific characteristics:

• Power consumption . The more power the camera has, the more electricity it will consume. This means that its maintenance will cost us more.
• Image resolution . It affects, firstly, the clarity of the picture, and secondly, the distance covered by the camera. The higher the camera resolution, the greater the chance of distinguishing a distant object.
• Availability of IR illumination . This makes it possible to obtain images in the dark. Infrared illumination, invisible to the human eye, allows you to obtain high-quality images even at night. Often, IR illumination in a camera is used in conjunction with a motion sensor.
• Operating temperature range . In Russia, the temperature in winter reaches -40 degrees, so we choose a camera in accordance with the temperature regime of our area. I advise residents of very cold regions to consider the option of a heated chamber.
• Viewing angle . A camera with a wide viewing angle covers a larger area. However, sometimes it is more profitable to install two or more cameras instead of buying one expensive one with a high viewing angle.
• Dimensions . Before choosing a camera, we will determine the place where it will hang and calculate the dimensions acceptable to us.

The best IP cameras for outdoor video surveillance

Hikvision DS-2CD2085FWD-I

Rating: 4.9

An excellent IP camera that can be installed anywhere on the street. It can work in absolutely any conditions - even in extreme heat, even in severe frost. As long as the necessary power is provided (12V, PoE is also supported). In this case, the camera can monitor both a fairly large area and a specific object. There are three versions of the product, differing in viewing angle. The maximum available option is the viewing angle of which is increased to 102°. There are also options whose above-mentioned parameter is 79° and 50°. In this case, the aperture in any case has a value of f/2.0, so the picture for all lenses is equally bright. By the way, everything that is happening can be seen even at night - the minimum required illumination for the product is 0.01 lux. And with the activated IR filter, everything is visible even in a room without a window and with the door closed (the infrared illumination range is 30 m).

Hikvision DS-2CD2085FWD-I shoots video with 4K resolution and a frequency of 20 frames/s. By default, it is written to a memory card, the slot for which is cleverly hidden. The video is also broadcast to the DVR - the maximum bitrate of the stream can reach 16 Mb/s, which is enough even for viewing small details. As befits such an IP camera, the device has a motion sensor and face detection. The device can boast of a large number of supported protocols. Connection to the Internet or local network is via a traditional RJ45 port. The body of the IP camera is made of metal. The camera can even withstand heavy rain - the protection of internal components is implemented according to the IP67 standard.

Advantages

• Available in different focal lengths;
• There is an IP67 protection certificate;
• Ideal light sensitivity;
• There is support for a large number of protocols;
• Implemented face detection and motion detection;
• Built-in slot for microSD memory card up to 128 GB;
• An alarm may be triggered;
• 4K resolution supported;
• Broadcast video in three streams;
• There is an IR filter with auto-switching.

Flaws

• Available only upon order.

Dahua DH-IPC-PFW8601P-A180

Rating: 4.8

This camera is a panoramic type. That is, its viewing angle reaches 180°. This allows her to see absolutely everything that is happening in front of the wall to which she is attached. The device has a pair of lenses with an f/1.8 aperture. As for the matrix, it uses a Sony Exmor CMOS sensor with a size of 1/2.8 inches and a resolution of 4096 × 832 pixels. Such a matrix in itself is very sensitive. However, at night its work is complemented by IR illumination, thanks to which no one will go unnoticed.

Like many other modern IP cameras discussed in this rating, the device from Dahua has motion detection. The maximum system can detect objects located 52 meters from the camera. There is also a function for recognizing an object located 10 meters from the lens. Finally, face identification is also available, but for this the person must be in close proximity - at least five meters from the IP camera.

The IP camera is capable of broadcasting images in three streams. The first one will have priority - the video in it has the maximum resolution. In other streams, the parameter is reduced approximately threefold. The frequency in all cases will be 25 frames/s. Other features of this model include many different settings, including noise reduction available to the user. The camera is IP67 certified, which allows it to withstand neither fog nor rain. The product also belongs to the IK10 vandal resistance class - breaking the camera is not as easy as it seems. The image here is not only transmitted via one of the many supported network protocols, but also written to a memory card. AC 24B and PoE+ are used as power supply here.

Advantages

• A large number of network protocols are supported;
• There are alarm outputs and inputs;
• Excellent protection against water and vandals;
• There is support for memory cards up to 128 GB;
• Broadcast in three streams;
• Panoramic video surveillance;
• Built-in IR illumination with a range of up to 30 m;
• Motion detection and face identification are possible.

Flaws

• High cost (94 thousand rubles).

HiWatch DS-I200© (2.8 mm)

Rating: 4.8

This outdoor IP camera has a number of undeniable advantages. Firstly, it turned out to be relatively small. And the smaller such a device is, the less it attracts the attention of a potential criminal. And such a camera will not confuse ordinary people. Secondly, the HiWatch DS-I200© includes optics with a 135-degree viewing angle. If placed correctly, this will allow you to see almost everything that is happening in the immediate vicinity of the protected premises. Thirdly, the design of the device boasts moisture protection according to the IP67 standard. Rain, snow, hail - all these bad weather will not affect the condition of the camera in any way. Even a sandstorm can't hurt!

Inside this model there is a CMOS matrix, the size of which is 1/2.7 inches, and the resolution is 2 megapixels. It would seem that the chickens are laughing! However, the above-mentioned characteristics are quite enough to provide a video surveillance system with an image with Full HD resolution and a frequency of 25 frames/s. In this case, the material can be transmitted in the modern H.265 codec, thereby reducing the requirements for network bandwidth.

Since it uses wide-angle optics, the camera has a fixed focus. For the same reason, there is no optical zoom here. But the manufacturer did not forget about IR illumination. And even with a very decent range - at night you will even see events that occur thirty meters from the device! In this case, you do not have to closely monitor the image. The camera has a built-in motion sensor, which will definitely notify you that an unauthorized person is in front of it. Of course, this is not relevant if the HiWatch DS-I200© is installed in a crowded place.

As mentioned above, the product received a very modest matrix. However, this did not stop the manufacturer from introducing support for WDR technology. There is also noise reduction and backlight compensation. The creators claim that their creation can work at any temperature. Even with those observed in Vorkuta and Norilsk! It is precisely because of this that an IP camera costs a lot of money - for a 270-gram little one they ask about 5 thousand rubles.

Advantages

• Powered by adapter and PoE technology;
• Built-in far IR illumination;
• There is good moisture protection;
• Wide viewing angle;
• Modern codecs are supported;
• Various picture enhancements available;
• The video is broadcast in 1080p resolution;
• There is a motion sensor.

Flaws

• The case is not vandal-proof;
• Internet Explorer is required for setup;
• High price;
• No optical zoom.

Hikvision DS-2CD2542FWD-IS

Rating: 4.8

This must be one of the smallest IP cameras equipped with mechanical IR illumination and well-implemented electronics. The width and height of the IP camera does not even reach 10 cm, and the depth is only 52 mm. At the same time, such a little thing writes video of quite good quality - with a resolution of 2688 × 1520 pixels. The frequency is 20 frames/s, which is quite acceptable for video surveillance. If you reduce the resolution to traditional Full HD, the frequency will increase to 25 FPS.

It should be noted that this IP camera is designed for close-range monitoring. With the IR filter activated, objects can only be distinguished at a distance of ten meters. During the day, the situation is better; in daylight, the f/1.2 aperture saves the day, providing almost ideal aperture. And the matrix installed here is not bad - it is made using CMOS technology, and its physical size is 1/3 inch.

Of course, you can’t rely on facial identification, which the cameras already reviewed in this rating could boast of. But the product is still equipped with the simplest motion detection. It is also worth noting the protection according to IP67 and IK08 standards - you don’t expect such certificates from such a miniature device.

You can find several versions of this IP camera on sale. They differ only in the viewing angle of the installed optics. The buyer has options with an angle from 55.4° to 106°. That is, you can choose both a camera for an ATM and an option for street video surveillance. This IP camera costs about 16 thousand rubles.

Advantages

• High photosensitivity;
• There is an IR filter;
• High video resolution;
• Available with different optics;
• Reasonable price tag;
• Large number of supported network protocols;
• There is motion detection;
• Memory cards up to 128 GB are supported;
• An additional video stream can be broadcast;
• Protection according to IK08 and IP67 standards;
• There is hardware WDR 120 dB;
• There is a microphone;
• Reasonable price tag.

Flaws

• No H.265 codec support;
• Not very long range of IR illumination.

Dahua DH-IPC-HFW2221RP-VFS-IRE6

Rating: 4.7

This is a traditional bullet camera designed for outdoor video surveillance. It is one of the most affordable options; for this model they ask for a little more than 10-12 thousand rubles. The IP camera is based on a two-megapixel CMOS matrix, the size of which is 1/2.7 inches. Despite its very modest characteristics, the product is capable of broadcasting two video streams. The picture resolution is 1920×1080 pixels, and the frequency is the usual 25 frames/s.

You can see any part of the frame. We have both hardware WDR and the aperture opened to f/1.4 to thank for this. At night, infrared illumination comes to the rescue, the range of which reaches 60 meters. It is also impossible not to note the well-implemented metal case, which protects the insides from water and dust. But there is no vandal resistance here - the manufacturer saved money on this. DC 12V is used as power here, or electricity is sent via an Ethernet cable. The savings are also noticeable in the number of connectors the IP camera has. There is no analog output here, with alarm sockets. In fact, only RJ-45 is available to the buyer - the port through which the network video stream will be broadcast. The image can also be saved to a memory card; a maximum storage capacity of 128 GB is supported.

Advantages

• A large number of protocols are supported;
• There is moisture protection according to the IP67 standard;
• Implemented IR illumination; Relatively high frame rate;
• There is a motion detection function;
• Capacious memory card supported;
• Low cost;
• The picture is broadcast in two streams.

Flaws

• There is no protection against vandals;
• High signal to noise ratio;
• Small number of connectors.

ActiveCam AC-D9161IR2

Rating: 4.6

Another IP camera in our rating, which can be called panoramic. The maximum viewing angle is achieved here through the use of fisheye optics (the so-called “fisheye”). At the same time, the detail of any area of ​​the frame remains quite high, since the video resolution is 3072x2048 (the frequency reaches 25 frames/s). The sensor used here is a 1/2.9-inch CMOS module. The IP camera can operate even in zero light conditions; in the dark, mechanical IR illumination is activated, the range of which is 20 m.

This IP camera can be used outdoors, as evidenced by the lack of fear of light rain and fog. But no one will forbid using the product indoors, because the dimensions of the chamber are very small. Surveillance of unheated spaces is also available. Another important feature of the device is the ability to focus on one of the four zones - the resolution of the other three at this moment is reduced, which allows you to reduce the bitrate. Like the previous devices reviewed, the camera can receive electricity not only from a 12V power supply, but also via an Ethernet cable (this is indicated by support for PoE technology). There is also a slot for a microSD memory card with a capacity of up to 128 GB, which retains information even if the connection is lost.

Advantages

• There is support for WDR 110 dB;
• The noise reduction function is perfectly implemented;
• The viewing angle is 180 degrees (vertical and horizontal);
• High image resolution;
• There is IR illumination;
• There are a large number of connectors;
• Capacious memory card supported;
• The cost does not exceed 20 thousand rubles.

Flaws

• There is no certificate for moisture protection;
• Cannot be called vandal-resistant;
• Only one video stream is transmitted;
• Insufficient number of “smart” functions.

The best CCTV cameras for the street

Falcon Eye FE-IB720MHD/20M

The inexpensive AHD camera Falcon Eye FE-IB720MHD/20M for only 1,300 rubles is a suitable option for outdoor use. This is a digital camera with a temperature range from -40 to +50 degrees, which allows it to work in the harsh Russian winter. The device has a metal case, that is, the camera is reliably protected from external influences. The camera is also equipped with IR illumination. The only drawback I can point out is that the image resolution is not the highest - 1MP.

Price: RUB 1,189

HiWatch DS-T100

HiWatch DS-T100, priced at about 1,900 rubles, is a device that is in many ways similar to the previous one. It differs, firstly, in type: this camera is analog. I recommend using it to replace a failed analog camera, since in this case you will not have to replace the wiring. Additionally, the HiWatch DS-T100 has a larger temperature range, but is just as behind in image resolution as the Falcon Eye camera.

Price: ₽ 1,860

The best wired outdoor security cameras

Hikvision DS-2CD4232FWD-IS

Rating: 4.9

Why it: Flagship high-definition video camera.

An almost ideal camera for organizing outdoor video surveillance. The 1/3-inch 3-megapixel sensor delivers up to 2K live streaming across two independently adjustable channels, while a mechanical, switchable IR cut filter maintains visibility and detail even at night. Sensor sensitivity is from 0 lux using IR and from 0.01 lux at f/1.2 aperture. The camera is equipped with a lens with a switchable aperture f/1.2-f/1.4 and a viewing angle of 91.2 degrees.

Smart features of the outdoor security camera include auto focus, smart analytics, 120 decibel wide color range and auto-switching IR cut filter in day and night modes. The case is made with IP66 protection, which guarantees safety when used during rain, hurricane or snowfall.

The camera connects to the DVR via IP and uses an Ethernet cable.

Advantages

• Advanced video analytics system, can be used as a security camera with automatic alarm triggering;
• High resolution and bitrate of audio stream;
• Excellent light sensitivity of the sensor, suitable for unlit and poorly lit spaces.

Flaws

• There is no drive to rotate the camera;
• Rarely found on sale;
• Relatively low frame rate (20 fps) on a video stream with a resolution higher than Full HD.

Dahua DH-SD49225I-HC

Rating: 4.8

Why it: PTZ video camera with optical zoom, high-definition analog video stream.

A 2-megapixel video camera that connects via a coaxial cable and supports remote control via the same interface. To do this, it uses the HDCVI standard. The CCTV camera is equipped with a 1/2.8-inch sensor that is capable of collecting data at a speed of 30 fps at full resolution (Full HD). The sensitivity of the matrix is ​​0.005 lux without infrared illumination and 0 lux with it. The IR illumination range is 100 meters.

The stock built-in lens is motorized, provides 25x optical zoom (focal length 4.8-120 mm) and a viewing angle of up to 59.2 degrees horizontally. Although it is not very wide, this is compensated for by the electromechanical drive in the bracket. Thanks to this, the camera can be rotated.

The camera is housed in a housing protected according to the IP66 standard. A regular coaxial cable is used for connection.

Advantages

• HDCVI technology allows you to use high-definition video streams with old coaxial wiring (minimizes costs when upgrading);
• Sensor with high light sensitivity using Starlight technology;
• Infrared illumination with a range of 100 meters, one of the largest in the rating.

Flaws

• Relatively high price;
• Small field of view, panning required;
• Large and heavy - height 30 cm, weight 3 kg.

Dahua DH-SD22204T-GN

Rating: 4.8

Why it is: Low price, high resolution, supports optical zoom.

Outdoor CCTV camera designed for IP networks and corresponding recorders. It is made in a dome housing, motorized, and can be rotated. The camera is equipped with a 2-megapixel 1/2.7-inch sensor that provides a video stream with a resolution of Full HD 25 fps. Light sensitivity is 0.05 lux in day mode and 0.005 lux in night mode with monochrome capture activated.

The camera is equipped with a built-in motorized lens that provides 4x optical zoom (focal length 2.7-11 mm). The field of view is up to 100 degrees per second horizontally when panning actively. "Intelligent" functions of the device include video stream analytics, business and security. Motorization of the bracket allows for horizontal and vertical panning.

The outdoor camera is connected via IP (Ethernet cable) and supports power supply using PoE technology.

Advantages

• Low price – one of the most inexpensive high-resolution IP cameras with IP66 protection;
• High image detail thanks to the actual sensor resolution of 2 megapixels;
• Lots of smart features and image optimization technologies.

Flaws

• Wired connection only;
• Inconvenient control via a web browser;
• There is no infrared illumination; the purchase of an appropriate spotlight for night observation is required.

Hikvision DS-2CD2142FWD-IS

Rating: 4.7

Why it: Very wide operating temperature range, high sensor resolution.

This outdoor security camera is designed for use in areas with extreme weather conditions. It maintains functionality and performance characteristics in the temperature range from -40 to 60 degrees Celsius. As a result, it can be installed even in places exposed to direct sunlight.

At the same time, the technical characteristics of the device are also excellent. The camera is equipped with a 4-megapixel 1/3-inch sensor with a maximum video stream resolution of 2.5K 20 fps and a mechanical IR filter that supports auto-switching, as well as a light sensitivity of 0.01 lux in color mode. This is complemented by a lens with a focal length of 2.8-6 mm (3x optical zoom) and a fixed aperture of f/2.0. Viewing angle – up to 106 degrees.

The camera connects via IP and supports power via PoE. There are smart functions. The bracket is motorized and rotatable.

Advantages

• Viewing angle up to 106 degrees without panning;
• Operating temperature range -40…60 degrees;
• Advanced smart features.

Flaws

• Relatively low frame rate at maximum resolution;
• Short length of infrared illumination (up to 30 meters depending on weather conditions).

Hikvision HiWatch DS-T500

Rating: 4.6

Why it is: The cheapest street camera in its rating segment.

Despite the low price, this camera is only slightly inferior to other models. It is equipped with a 5-megapixel 1/2.7-inch sensor, which provides a video stream with a resolution of up to 2.5K 25 fps inclusive. In this case, the camera is connected via an HD-TVI interface using a standard coaxial cable. Thus, based on this device, it is possible to upgrade an existing video surveillance system at minimal cost.

The high-resolution sensor is complemented by a mechanical infrared filter with automatic switching; and has a photosensitivity of 0.01 lux. The camera supports EXIR illumination at a distance of up to 20 meters. All this is complemented by a lens with a focal length of 2.8 mm and an f/2.0 aperture, having a viewing angle of 86.5 degrees.

The camera is housed in a housing protected according to the IP67 standard and supports operation in a temperature range from -60 to 40 degrees Celsius.

Advantages

• Cheapness;
• Suitable for upgrading existing CCTV networks with coaxial cables;
• Provides a video stream with a resolution of 2.5K and a speed of 25 frames per second.

Flaws

• Lens with fixed focus and aperture;
• There is no rotating mechanism and smart functions, as well as remote control;
• Short distance infrared illumination.

Best CCTV Camera for Home

Falcon Eye FE D80C

The dome-type analog camera Falcon Eye FE D80C costs about 1,000 rubles. It differs from cameras for external video surveillance in its lower screen resolution (976 x 572 pixels) and smaller temperature range (from -15 to +50 degrees). This is justified because the area covered in the house is lower and the temperature is maintained at a certain level. However, in my opinion, the temperature of the camera is still too high: most likely, the temperature at the location where the camera is installed will not rise even above 30 degrees. The disadvantages include the lack of IR illumination, that is, at night without artificial lighting the camera will not be able to do its job.

Price: ₽ 1,210

The best outdoor anti-vandal IP cameras

Dahua DH-IPC-HDBW5830RP-Z

Rating: 4.9

This IP dome camera has an 8-megapixel CMOS sensor. Light hits it through a lens equipped with four times optical zoom. This allows you to hang the camera quite high above the object of observation, simply enlarging the image if necessary. The maximum angle of view is 102° (horizontally), with a fourfold zoom this parameter is reduced to 39°. It should also be noted that there are two IR diodes here. They are extremely powerful, and therefore even at night you can see everything that is happening at a distance of up to 50 m.

The video here is broadcast with 4K resolution and a frame rate of 15 frames/s. Also, two more video streams can be additionally carried out with a slightly lower resolution, but at a higher frequency. As usual, there is motion detection here, which has an abundance of various settings. You should also be pleased with the noise reduction function, implemented using 3D DNR technology. Interestingly, the IP camera allows you to add up to four private zones to the video, where what is happening will be indistinguishable. Of course, there is also vandal resistance, which is complemented by traditional moisture protection.

Advantages

• Impact-resistant metal case;
• There is dust and moisture protection according to the IP67 standard;
• Large number of supported protocols;
• Can be powered via Ethernet;
• Installation of a memory card up to 128 GB is available;
• There are modes and privacy zones;
• Built-in alarm inputs and outputs;
• The lens has an optical zoom;
• Up to three video streams are available;
• Motion detection is well implemented;
• Far-reaching IR illumination;
• A high resolution.

Flaws

• The cost reaches 35 thousand rubles.

Hikvision DS-2DE2A404IW-DE3

Rating: 4.9

This IP camera is usually hung in a place that can be robbed. If an attacker wants to get rid of this little one, he is unlikely to succeed. The body of the product is anti-vandal, so it is not afraid of even blows from a crowbar. But the manufacturer is not asking for quite a lot of money for this. The main advantage of the camera is the image it broadcasts. The capabilities of the 4-megapixel CMOS matrix are more than enough to shoot video at a resolution of 4560×1440 pixels. The frequency will not drop below 25 frames/s. As a result, the picture allows you to see the face of the criminal without any problems.

A high-quality sensor is not the only advantage of a camera from Hikvision. There is also a very decent lens built into it. It looks like it was borrowed from an expensive compact camera. It even provides optical zoom when the focal length changes from 2.8mm to 12mm. At the same time, the aperture of this lens is opened to f/1.6. This makes the optics fast - the picture remains high-quality even in the twilight. Well, at night, infrared illumination comes to the rescue, the range of which reaches 20 m. And do not forget that the camera has a rotating mechanism - its lens can be directed in any direction.

With such a camera you can survey absolutely the entire area located in the immediate vicinity of the security object. What is important is that broadcasting can be carried out not only over a traditional network cable connected to an Ethernet port. There is also an audio output - sound will flow through the corresponding wire. To receive it, it is better to use some kind of external microphone, for which there is a separate input. Well, if the criminal somehow cuts all the cables, his face will be preserved in any case. The fact is that this IP camera additionally writes a picture to a memory card. This is done using the modern H.265 codec, so video files will not take up much space.

The remaining characteristics of the Hikvision DS-2DE2A404IW-DE3 are not surprising. The camera is waterproof according to the IP66 standard, so it is not afraid of rain or snow. The device works in hot weather without any problems. But frost can cause interruptions in broadcasting. The manufacturer stated that the outside temperature should be at least −20°C. The device is powered by a network cable (PoE technology) or by an electrical network.

Advantages

• A large number of connectors;
• There is a motion detector;
• There is an optical zoom;
• The case is anti-vandal;
• There is moisture protection;
• Produces a high-resolution image;
• Decent range of IR illumination;
• Can write video to a memory card;
• The camera is rotating.

Flaws

• Very high cost.

BEWARD BD4330RVZX

Rating: 4.8

Traditional street camera, supplemented with IR illumination. Inside this device there is a relatively modest CMOS matrix with only 2 megapixel resolution. This does not allow us to recommend the product for video surveillance of particularly important objects - the other options discussed in our rating are intended for these purposes. The BEWARD BD4330RVZX can be installed outside a small store where Full HD video is sufficient. You can observe what is happening at any time of the day, since the aforementioned IR illumination hits a 25-meter distance.

Despite its seemingly simplicity, this IP camera has a three-fold optical zoom. This allows you to reduce the viewing angle from 98° to 35° (horizontally) at any time, examining the attacker’s face in all details. It should also be noted that there are alarm inputs and outputs here, the signal to which is transmitted in certain programmed cases. But the memory card slot is a let down here—the camera supports a maximum of 32 GB of storage.

Like many other IP cameras, this model boasts support for receiving power via an Ethernet connector. However, in this case, the product will refuse to work after the frost exceeds −10°C. Therefore, Expertology recommends providing the product with traditional 12- or 24-volt power. This model costs 25 thousand rubles. It is becoming more and more difficult to buy it, since the camera is no longer in production.

Advantages

• Has a protection class of IP66;
• Good IR illumination has been introduced;
• DWDR and noise reduction (3DNR) are present;
• There are four independent motion detectors;
• The lens provides 3x optical zoom;
• There are alarm connectors;
• A large number of network protocols are supported.

Flaws

• The case cannot be called vandal-resistant;
• High-capacity memory cards are not supported;
• No H.265 codec support.

LTV CNE-622 48

Rating: 4.8

Another relatively simple IP camera in our rating, designed for street video surveillance. It has a cylindrical body with anti-vandal protection. It is very difficult to disable such a camera, and it will see the face of an attacker even in complete darkness - for this we should thank the array of infrared diodes that shine at a distance of 20-30 m. Weather conditions will not damage the IP camera, since the camera has received an IP66 certificate (it will not withstand only full immersion under water). The product can operate even in severe frost, especially if it is provided with electricity via a conventional 12-volt system. If you transfer power via an Ethernet cable, then in winter some problems may occur.

Otherwise, this is a typical outdoor security camera, which is capable of recording images with a resolution of 1080p and a frequency of 25 frames/s. It is capable of conducting three video streams at once. The IP camera can also boast four-fold optical zoom. This model costs only 10,500 rubles.

Advantages

• Low price tag;
• Protected from moisture and vandalism;
• There is optical zoom;
• There is a mechanical IR filter;
• Can be provided with power via an Ethernet cable;
• Three video streams;
• Good motion detection.

Flaws

• H.265 codec is not supported;
• No memory card slot;
• There are no alarm inputs and outputs.

Best Wi-Fi CCTV Camera

Orient NCL-01N-720P

Wi-Fi cameras are characterized by the absence of wires. They transmit the signal wirelessly. For example, the Orient NCL-01N-720P camera costs 3,500 rubles. It has a high resolution (for home use) and is equipped with a microphone and speaker. Has a remote control function: rotates 355° and tilts 120°. Allows you to view images online from a computer or smartphone, and with the help of a microphone and speaker we can establish two-way communication, for example, monitor a child left at home and talk to him.

Price: RUB 3,398

The best IP cameras for indoor video surveillance

Dahua DH-IPC-K86P

Rating: 4.9

Many banks whose operators communicate with a wide variety of clients make their choice in favor of this little one. The IP camera is placed on the table with the lens facing the person calling, after which you can forget about it. The tiny device acts similar to a webcam, recording not only the image, but also the sound. Only the field of view here is noticeably larger, reaching 118°. You should also remember that this is an IP camera. That is, the signal is transmitted to one or another network, and not through the USB connector. By default, the manufacturer suggests using the LAN port, thus connecting the IP camera to some kind of recorder. But you can also use wireless data transmission here - the built-in Wi-Fi module is used for this.

As you know, there are many more objects indoors than outdoors. In this regard, good detail is required here. If the street models discussed in this rating have a matrix with a resolution of 2-4 megapixels, then the Dahua DH-IPC-K86P IP camera can boast of an 8-megapixel sensor. The picture is broadcast in 4K resolution, albeit at only 8 frames/s! Modern codecs H.264 and H.265 are used for compression, making it easy for any smartphone to watch the video stream in real time.

It would seem that such a device does not need IR illumination at all. However, the manufacturer had a different opinion. He still built in one IR diode here, the range of which reaches 10 m. This will allow you to record what is happening in complete darkness. There is also hardware WDR, thanks to which glare almost never happens. Finally, one cannot fail to note the vandal-proof housing. It is because of this that the IP camera weighs 310 g - much more than any webcam. And partly because of this, the cost of an IP camera reaches a decent 16-17 thousand rubles.

Advantages

• Data transmission via RJ-45 and Wi-Fi;
• Video can have a resolution of 3840x2160 pixels;
• The H.265 codec is used;
• The housing is vandal-proof;
• Built-in microphone and speaker;
• There is IR illumination;
• There is motion detection;
• Smartphone connection via P2P is available;
• Quite a wide viewing angle.

Flaws

• The cost cannot be called low;
• Low frame rate.

BEWARD BD2570

Rating: 4.8

This IP camera is designed to be suspended from the ceiling. Inside it is a standard CMOS matrix by modern standards, the size of which is 1/2.5 inches. A high-quality sensor and very good optics guarantee an extended sensitivity range. Owners of large stores make their choice in favor of this device. However, the device is also installed in less crowded rooms. Buyers like the motion detector, which is available here in four types (each of them has separate settings). At night, the IR filter is activated, thanks to which good detail is preserved even in the dark.

The matrix installed here has a 5-megapixel resolution. This allows you to broadcast a picture with a resolution of 2592×1944 pixels. There are noises, but they are successfully suppressed to the extent that the user needs. There are also three WDR presets.

It may seem that the lens present here is capable of optical zoom. Unfortunately, this is not the case; the guard will only have access to digital zoom. But otherwise it is impossible to find fault with the IP camera. It supports receiving power via an Ethernet port, its body has alarm inputs and outputs, and the image can be broadcast in four streams.

Advantages

• A large number of inputs and outputs;
• A high resolution;
• The matrix has good photosensitivity;
• The design is equipped with a mechanical IR filter;
• There are four independent motion detectors;
• Huge set of settings;
• Interchangeable lens;
• Four video streams;
• Large number of supported protocols.

Flaws

• Only memory cards up to 32 GB are supported;
• The camera is not vandal-proof;
• No H.265 codec support.

Hikvision DS-2CD2442FWD-IW

Rating: 4.7

Another IP camera in our rating, installed at the customer service point. However, its mount is designed in such a way that the device can be placed somewhere in the corner of the room. This is also hinted at by the good motion detector that the camera is equipped with. It has rich settings - the device can trigger not only when motion is detected in the frame, but also when a person crosses a certain line, or even when he intrudes into a special area. Also, when monitoring a room, a mechanical IR filter equipped with an auto-switching function is useful.

Inside this model there is a familiar CMOS matrix, the size of which is 1/2.8 inches. The f/1.2 aperture contributes to very high light sensitivity. However, flare practically never happens - both the high-speed electronic shutter and the hardware WDR 120 dB save the day. The resolution of the installed sensor is 4 megapixels. This is quite enough to broadcast video with a resolution of 2688×1520 pixels and a frequency of 20 frames/s. The powerful processor allows for two video streams - the second, as usual, will have a lower resolution, which is ideal for displaying it simultaneously with images received from other CCTV cameras. It is also impossible not to note the fact that the device can provide electricity not only from the power supply, but also from the Ethernet cable. By the way, a miniature IP camera can broadcast an image wirelessly - for this, it uses built-in Wi-Fi, the range of which varies from 30 to 50 m.

Perhaps we can also mention the presence of a speaker here. This allows the operator to communicate with the client while behind thick glass. In a word, the manufacturer succeeded with the product. The only thing that is slightly disappointing is the lack of vandal resistance. But the IP camera is sold for only 12 thousand rubles.

Advantages

• Affordable price tag;
• Wide viewing angle;
• There is IR illumination, striking at 10 m;
• A high resolution;
• Rich set of supported network protocols;
• There is motion detection;
• Supports memory card up to 128 GB;
• Built-in speaker and microphone;
• Work via Wi-Fi is possible;
• Alarm interfaces have been implemented;
• There are two video streams.

Flaws

• No protection against vandals;
• There is no support for the H.265 codec.

Hikvision Ezviz C6T

Rating: 4.6

One of the most inexpensive IP cameras for indoor video surveillance. Its cost is approximately 6,500 rubles. A rotating module is hidden under the plastic dome of this device. Its rotation allows you to observe the entire surrounding space. That is, the camera can conditionally be called panoramic, although in practice it still is not. By the way, the module can also be tilted - the maximum permissible angle is 90°. You can move it using a special application on your smartphone. The lens here can also be closed - this happens in privacy mode, when you do not need video recording.

The camera is equipped with the ability to rotate automatically. She does this while tracking an object. The manufacturer on its official website recommends using this tracking function for children. That is, such an IP camera will be useful not only in a bank or other commercial premises, but also for an ordinary person. You can even communicate with your child, because two-way audio communication is implemented here (and you can also order the dog to stop gnawing on your favorite slippers).

Despite, so to speak, its amateur status, the Hikvision Ezviz C6T camera is equipped with IR illumination, the range of which reaches 10 m. Shooting here is carried out with Full HD resolution, in this regard the IP camera is not surprising at all. It can connect to the network either via an Ethernet cable or via Wi-Fi. Also, the picture can be written to a memory card, the maximum supported capacity of which is 128 GB.

Advantages

• A repeating and tilting lens is used;
• Built-in speaker and microphone;
• Sold for very little money;
• There is an object tracking function (including motion detection);
• Built-in IR illumination;
• Video streaming via Wi-Fi is possible;
• Capacious memory card supported.

Flaws

• No vandal resistance;
• No H.265 codec support;
• No PoE support.

Dahua DH-IPC-A26P

Rating: 4.5

And next in our ranking is another PTZ dome IP camera, but from a time-tested brand. Its cost reaches 11 thousand rubles, which indicates richer possibilities. And in terms of size, the IP camera turned out to be a little more massive. If you don’t read the technical specifications, it’s difficult to notice the difference with its budget brother. It uses a 2-megapixel CMOS matrix, providing video with the same Full HD resolution. There is also a microphone and speaker here, thanks to which two-way audio communication is realized. The same IR illumination is used - it is enough for about 10 m. The video stream is also broadcast either via an Ethernet cable or via Wi-Fi.

So what are the differences? They are mostly software based. It supports the H.265 codec, which has the best compression algorithms. You should also be pleased with the DWDR function, which allows you to see the picture in the shadows or areas with bright light. There is also well-implemented noise reduction. It may also seem that the device works a little more stable, and a little more users can connect to the broadcast.

Advantages

• Work via Wi-Fi is possible;
• Pan and tilt camera mechanism;
• There is a motion detector;
• Built-in IR illumination;
• There is two-way audio communication;
• Noise reduction and DWDR are present;
• Large number of supported protocols;
• You can insert a memory card up to 128 GB.

Flaws

• The viewing angle is only 77°;
• No support for power over Ethernet cable;
• There is no vandal resistance.

Best AHD CCTV Camera

Rexant 45-0143

AHD cameras are peculiar hybrids of analog and digital cameras. They feature high image resolution. This type of camera includes, for example, Rexant 45-0143, which costs about 3,500 rubles. It is suitable for both outdoors and indoors, as it has a wide temperature range (from -35 to +50). The camera is equipped with IR illumination with 36 diodes and a lens that can change its own focal length. This will allow us to obtain a clear image for both close and distant objects.

Price: RUB 3,690

Comparison table of the best CCTV cameras

FAQ:

Do I need to set up a CCTV camera? The camera must be installed and configured on a computer or other device to receive and store (if necessary) video files. The camera itself is configured according to the owner's wishes.

Which CCTV cameras are better: AHD/CVI/TVI or IP? AHD cameras are more suitable for shooting small areas; I recommend using them at home or on a small plot. For large outdoor areas, we purchase an IP camera. This way we will achieve the best picture quality.