Choosing the Best Quality CCTV System: A Quick Guide

Selecting the right CCTV system for your home or business depends on your specific needs. Here’s a simplified guide to help you make a smart investment:

1. Camera Type – Color vs. Black & White
   Color cameras are ideal for identifying details like clothing and hair but switch to black and white in low light. Black and white cameras are cheaper and perform better in the dark.

2. Night Vision Range
   Basic cameras offer 15–50 ft night vision, while high-end ones can reach up to 150 ft. The number of infrared LEDs determines night vision capability.

3. Image Quality Requirements
   Different locations may require different resolutions. TVL (TV Lines) is a good quality indicator—basic systems have 400–420 TVL, while 480–520 TVL offers better clarity. CCD sensors generally outperform CMOS.

4. Wired vs. Wireless
   Wireless systems still need power cables and may suffer from signal interference. Wired systems, especially with siamese cables (power + video), offer better reliability.

5. Environmental Exposure
   Standard cameras work indoors and outdoors, but for harsh weather or high vandalism risk, opt for cameras with durable, weatherproof housing.