What's the difference between surveillance & security cameras?

Keeping an eye on the security of your home or business can be a daunting task if you're going it alone. Fortunately, modern technology has provided us with solutions to keep our space safe and sound in an efficient manner! Surveillance cameras and security cameras are both essential tools that give homeowners peace of mind; but what's the difference between them?

Learn the unique capabilities and differences between surveillance and security cameras so you're better equipped to find the right solution for all your surveillance needs. However, if you have any further questions give Alltronic Security and Electrical a call at 07 3353 3248 and we would be more than happy to help you get the best security camera system.

What are surveillance cameras?

Surveillance cameras are the watchful eyes of large establishments and public places, recording all activity to detect anything amiss. Whether it's busy bustling at a sporting event or something suspicious in an alleyway, these devices help keep us safe by watching over our communities with attentive observation. The recorded surveillance from these cameras can also be used as evidence if a crime does occur.

Surveillance cameras use IP networks so they can quickly transfer video footage to secure remote locations while providing extended recording time - perfect for monitoring activity and spotting potential intruders or threats in real-time. Installing surveillance cameras requires specialised knowledge, as they must be properly integrated with comprehensive security systems that include monitors capable of tracking their activity seamlessly. 

Pros of surveillance cameras

• High-quality video - surveillance cameras provide higher resolution footage and can therefore provide a clearer picture; as well as enable you to zoom in on details with clarity.
• Crime in public places is reduced - surveillance cameras allow for real-time footage and so criminal acts can be identified prior to, or whilst, it is happening to allow for security patrols or police to respond immediately.
• Improves public safety - surveillance cameras often serve as a powerful deterrent against crime. Knowing that they can be caught on camera is enough to dissuade most people, even habitual offenders.
• Provides live, easily accessible, monitoring - the feed can be watched from anywhere, at any time, from a connected phone or computer.

Cons of surveillance cameras

• Complex and complicated system - the setup, management and monitoring of surveillance cameras are much more technical than security cameras.
• Much more expensive
• An easy target for hackers - surveillance cameras often use a wifi or internet connection making them easily hackable, especially if they aren’t encrypted. Vandals often deface visible cameras too.

What are security cameras?

Security cameras, or CCTV cameras, provide a unique blend of modern features and recording capabilities that make them an excellent choice for homeowners wanting to up their home security game. When combined with other devices such as motion sensors, door locks and alarms, you can get comprehensive safety coverage in your house.

Security cameras provide high-definition footage of your surveyed area and when accompanied by motion sensors, they can record clear visuals when motion is sensed day or night. Security cameras are primarily installed to deter crime.

Pros of security cameras

• Helps deter criminals - this is the number one benefit of security cameras as their presence has been proven to deter burglars by 31% (1)
• Easy to observe activities - Whether it's at home or at your business, you can install security cameras anywhere to monitor people’s activities.
• Can be used as evidence of a crime - With footage from a security camera, suspects of a crime are more likely to be identifiable for police to investigate.

Cons of security cameras

• Lower quality video - footage is displayed in a lower resolution than surveillance cameras and therefore footage is often grainy.
• Can leave you vulnerable to hacking - criminals are getting tech-smart and security cameras can be hacked and disabled.
• Can be construed as mistrustful and an invasion of privacy - security cameras can be recording other people and this raises an invasion of privacy question if they do not give consent.

Main differences between surveillance and security cameras

Functionality

Surveillance cameras are mainly used for public places and large businesses, but they come with substantial price tags. Surveillance cameras are watching constantly, all day, every day and send the footage to be recorded.

Security cameras, however, can detect motion in the area that they are watching. They can send you an alert when there is movement and record during that period. Some security camera systems also have professional security companies remotely monitoring and viewing the footage.

Technology

Surveillance cameras are usually part of a network of cameras connected to IP networks, which can be connected remotely to a central location.

Security camera feeds can be transmitted directly to receiving equipment, such as monitors, through coaxial cabling.

Features

Surveillance cameras transmit the recorded footage via digital signals to a network video recorder along a single cable, removing the necessity for multiple power cables.

Security cameras transmit the video feeds via cabling to a monitor and the cameras need to be purposefully situated in a single location.

Cost

Security cameras have become much more affordable and accessible, as well as technology improving all the time. The cost of a security camera system varies depending on factors such as; the number of cameras required, whether they are wired or wireless and the features you want. Capabilities of the camera system can include 1-way or 2-way audio, infrared technology, video analytics and cloud storage. Surplus to the initial cost of the cameras themselves, there are also installation and maintenance expenses to consider.

**Speak to your local security installation specialist to ensure you get the right camera for your needs**

Your local security experts

If you have any questions about security cameras or would like to discuss security system options, call our friendly team on 07 3353 3248 or complete our online enquiry form.

Reference: 1 - Budget Direct Home Burglary Survey & Statistics 2022