Once you have decided to install a security system to protect your home from intruders, the next step is to choose the right security camera. Today, several types of security cameras are available in the market. Among them, the popular ones are dome and bullet security cameras. Choosing the right-fit among them can be challenging. In this article, we will guide you through the difference between them and their pros & cons.
Dome security cameras got their name due to their dome, circular shape. These types of security cameras can be used indoors as well as outdoors. They can be either suspended from a wall-mounted bracket or ceiling mounted. The camera unit is located inside a transparent dome, which is tinted to obscure the position of the camera.
Dome security cameras are available in different forms. They can be fixed or mobile, analog, or IP. These cameras are available in micro and mini versions and may include built-in video analytics.
The dome security cameras are available in different sizes, shapes, and angles. Some cameras come with pal-tilt-zoom features, while others with night vision. They can be used both indoors areas and outdoors and can be installed facing the parking area, backyard, etc.
Dome cameras have a unique design. One cannot tell in which the camera lens is pointing, adding a sense of uncertainty among the intruders. It includes a rotating camera that can be used to capture wide-angle visuals, discouraging trespassers from entering your property.
Dome security cameras are designed to place outdoors. If they are vandal-proof and waterproof, the camera unit can be susceptible to damages. Despite the sleek shape of the dome, they can be rough handled and cannot be tampered with.
Dome cameras have built-in infrared LEDs due to which they can guard your property at the day as well as night. The infrared LEDs are capable of delivering clear and sharp pictures without ambient light. In an unfortunate case, if there occurs a burglary, the dome camera will send you instant alert and footage.
It is a bit challenging to install the dome cameras. Also, it is not positionable once installed. If you haven’t placed them correctly or you want to change the location, the camera has to be removed entirely and reinstalled.
Dome cameras have smaller lenses and hence can cover only smaller areas. If you want to cover larger areas, then this type of camera is not the best fit for you.
Dome cameras are more likely to attract dust and dirt. Therefore, it requires regular cleaning and maintenance.
Bullet security cameras are named for their distinct cylindrical shape that resembles a bullet or a lipstick tube. Since these cameras act as a visible deterrent, they can discourage intruders from entering your property. Bullet cameras can be easily installed in indoor areas as well as outdoor areas. The key feature of this type of security camera is they come with varifocal or fixed lenses depending on its intended application.
Bullet cameras have a more extended range when compared to the dome cameras. Though their field of view is narrow, the camera unit can accommodate large lenses, resulting in longer coverage.
Bullet cameras come with mounting handles and hence are easy to install. Also, upon installation, you can easily position the lenses to monitor your preferred area.
They have infrared LEDs that enable the unit to capture visuals during day times as well as night or low light conditions.
Bullet security cameras are waterproof and durable. They can be installed outside without having to worry about them being vandalized.
The major drawback of bullet cameras is that they do not have an auto-rotate feature. If someone changes the direction of the camera unit, then the system won’t correct it automatically and must be set right manually.
The cost of a bullet camera is expensive. The average price is $100 and can range up to $300 for professionally installed and monitored cameras.
Bullet cameras protrude from the wall, thereby making it an ideal location for birds or other small animals to build their nests.
Both the security cameras are durable and can be used in indoor areas and outdoor areas. In terms of wear & tear, dome cameras are likely to attract dust, whereas bullet cameras are susceptible to wildlife listing. If you want to obtain wide-angle visuals, then go for dome cameras and bullet cameras for longer range.