Ultimate Guide to Types of Security Cameras

Ultimate Guide to Types of Security Cameras

A complete professional guide to types of security cameras, how each camera style is used, and how they integrate into SureVision IP security camera systems with up to true 4K resolution and no monthly fees.

Choosing the right security camera isn’t about buying a single device — it’s about selecting the correct camera type for each location and connecting them into a complete NVR-based surveillance system.

This guide explains the most common security camera styles, when to use each one, and why professional systems outperform consumer cameras in reliability, clarity, and long-term value.

Security Camera Types & Use Cases

Bullet Security Cameras

Bullet cameras are highly visible and act as a strong deterrent. They are commonly used for:

  • Perimeters and fence lines
  • Driveways and vehicle entrances
  • Gates and exterior walkways

Bullet cameras are ideal when you want criminals to clearly see the camera. View professional SureVision bullet cameras.

Dome & Turret Security Cameras

Dome and turret cameras are more discreet and often vandal-resistant. They are ideal for:

  • Entrances and exits
  • Indoor commercial areas
  • Public-facing locations

Their low-profile design makes it harder to tell which direction the camera is facing. Browse SureVision dome cameras.

Varifocal (Optical Zoom) Cameras

Varifocal cameras feature adjustable lenses that allow you to zoom optically without losing image quality.

  • Long corridors
  • Parking lots
  • Areas requiring identification at distance

These cameras are essential when detail matters. See SureVision varifocal cameras.

PTZ Security Cameras

PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) cameras actively move and zoom to cover large areas. They are commonly used for:

  • Large parking lots
  • Warehouses and campuses
  • Live monitoring environments

PTZ cameras are typically paired with fixed cameras for full coverage. View SureVision PTZ cameras.

LPR (License Plate Recognition) Cameras

LPR cameras are purpose-built to capture license plates at entrances and choke points.

  • Vehicle entrances
  • Gated communities
  • Commercial access roads

These cameras use specialized shutters and angles. Learn about SureVision LPR cameras.

Not All 4K Security Cameras Are Equal

While many cameras advertise “4K,” true performance depends on sensor quality, bitrate, lens design, and recorder compatibility.

Professional 4K security cameras deliver higher bitrates, true 24/7 recording, and cleaner night footage compared to consumer-grade cameras that rely on heavy compression.

This is why SureVision cameras are paired with professional NVRs instead of cloud recording.

Professional vs Consumer Security Cameras

Feature Professional (SureVision) Consumer Cameras
Recording 24/7 Local NVR Motion / Cloud
Fees No Monthly Fees Subscription Required
Camera Types Bullet, Dome, PTZ, LPR Limited
Scalability 2–64 Cameras Minimal
Ownership You Own the Footage Vendor Controlled

How Professional Camera Systems Connect

In a professional security camera system, each camera connects to the NVR using a single Cat5e PoE cable. This cable supplies both power and video.

All cameras record locally to the NVR, ensuring reliable performance, full ownership of footage, and no dependency on cloud services. Complete systems are available at CCTV Security Pros.

Installation & Placement Best Practices

  • Cover entrances and high-value areas first
  • Mount outdoor cameras 9–12 feet high
  • Avoid aiming directly into lights
  • Overlap fields of view for context

Need Help Choosing the Right Camera Types?

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