By Type of Security Camera

Types of Security Cameras

 

Not all security cameras are built the same. This category helps you compare the most common types of security cameras used for home security, business security, and outdoor surveillance — including bullet, dome, PTZ, fisheye, and license plate cameras.

If you’re also comparing technologies like IP cameras, PoE cameras, and HD CCTV (HD-over-coax), we link to the best starting points below so you can shop the right solution without guesswork.

Shop Security Cameras by Type
Bullet Security Cameras
 

Best for outdoor security, driveways, parking areas, and longer viewing distances. Bullet cameras are also a strong visible deterrent for both home and business surveillance.

Dome Security Cameras
 

A top choice for indoor/outdoor coverage where you want a clean look. Dome cameras are popular for retail, offices, and entryways, and many models offer vandal-resistant housings.

PTZ Security Cameras
 

PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom) cameras are ideal for active monitoring of large areas like parking lots, yards, and warehouses. They let you remotely move and zoom to capture details when needed.

Fisheye Security Cameras
 

Fisheye cameras provide ultra-wide 360° coverage — great for open rooms, lobbies, retail aisles, and areas where you want maximum coverage with fewer cameras.

License Plate Recognition Cameras (LPR)
 

LPR cameras are specialized for capturing readable license plates in real-world conditions (headlights, motion, distance). They’re commonly used for gated entries, commercial lots, HOAs, and high-value properties where plate identification matters.

IP vs PoE vs CCTV: Which Technology Should You Choose?

 

IP security cameras (also called network cameras) send digital video over a network. Most professional systems today use PoE cameras, which carry power + video on a single Ethernet cable for a clean, reliable installation.

HD CCTV (HD-over-coax) is often the best fit when a property already has coax wiring installed. It provides HD video while keeping the existing cabling, typically paired with a DVR recorder.

Best Security Camera Types for Home, Business, and Outdoor Use

 
Best for Home
  • PoE IP cameras for reliable recording
  • Dome cameras for entries & patios
  • Bullet cameras for driveways & longer views
Best for Business
  • 4K IP cameras for identification detail
  • NVR recording for multi-camera sites
  • PTZ cameras for large open areas
Best for Outdoor
  • Bullet cameras for perimeter coverage
  • IR night vision for dark areas
  • LPR for gates & vehicle access points

Security Camera Types FAQ

 
What type of security camera is best for a home?
Most homes do best with PoE IP cameras for reliability and clear video. Dome cameras are great for entries and patios, while bullet cameras work well for driveways and perimeter coverage.
Which type of security camera is best for business?
For businesses, 4K IP cameras + an NVR is typically the best combination for identification detail and scalable recording. PTZ cameras can add coverage for large open areas like lots and warehouses.
What’s the difference between IP cameras and CCTV cameras?
IP cameras transmit digital video over a network and are often powered via PoE. HD CCTV (HD-over-coax) sends video over coax cable and typically records to a DVR. IP/PoE is most common for new installs; HD-over-coax is popular for upgrades with existing wiring.
When should I use a license plate camera (LPR)?
Use LPR cameras at gates, entrances, and drive lanes where plate identification matters. They’re designed to handle headlights and motion better than standard cameras.
Ultimate Guide to Security Cameras
Learn camera types, placement, PoE cabling, storage, and more—built around SureVision IP (2–64 channels) with no monthly fees.
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