Choosing the Right Resolution for a Security Camera

Image by Manfred Antranias Zimmer from Pixabay

The first thing everyone asks while buying a camera is how clear the pictures are and how much resolution an image shot with the camera has? And without a doubt, the same applies to CCTV cameras as well. The whole point of having a security system is to prevent crimes or accidents. So having a grainy image with no clarity is as good as having none at all. This problem is often faced in security camera images.

That is why choosing a suitable resolution is very important.   Resolution is the most essential and fundamental feature of a camera.  Resolution refers to the total number of pixels in the image sensor or the captured photograph. The higher the number, the more information.

In digital imaging, a pixel (or picture element) is the smallest information item in an image. Pixels are arranged in a 2-dimensional grid, represented using squares. Pixels are created when the light that flows through the camera lens is captured into the image sensor device inside the camera. The image sensor has millions of light capturing wells or pixels.  Image sensor collects the incoming light when the shutter opens and converts that light into an electrical signal

Pixel Count is usually defined in Megapixels. Any resolution over 1 million pixels is considered a 'megapixel.' In the case of megapixel cameras, the labels are approximate. Eg: 4 MP is 3,686,400 (2560 x 1440) pixels. Security cameras usually have a resolution of 720P, 2MP, 4MP, 5MP, and 8MP. 

Let's see what this means and how it affects the quality of the image.

It is clear from the table above that as the resolution of the image increases, the image quality also increases. For example, 4K and 1440p IP cameras will easily detect license plate numbers, while 720p cameras will not give a clear view. On the other hand, security cameras with 1080p might provide a clear picture depending on, say, the vehicle's distance. 

 However, one common misconception is that since 4K cameras give better quality pictures, they would use up more bandwidth and consume a lot of storage. But, thanks to different video compression techniques like H.264, H.265, size and bandwidth usage has been reduced by 50% without any effect on the quality of the image. 

 How much image resolution will I need?

 To answer this question, as yourself, "How much detail do I need?" Depending on this, choose a camera that is affordable and fits your budget. If you have a vast budget and don't mind spending, go with the 4K camera. 

Then, keep in mind that the higher the resolution, the greater will be the clarity. So, if you require clear images, like identifying a person, choosing a 1440p or 4K camera is advisable. Higher resolution also helps with the identification and recognition of people and things at a distance. 

With that piece of information aside, make sure you make enough provisions for storing high-quality images and choose the correct compression technique.

 Written by Haritha S.