The main types of CCTV cameras are dome, bullet, turret, PTZ and panoramic (fisheye), and each fits a different job. Dome cameras suit indoors and vandal-prone spots. Bullet cameras suit long outdoor views and are easy to aim. Turret cameras cut down infrared glare. PTZ cameras cover wide areas, and panoramic cameras cover a whole room from one point. Pick by where the camera goes and what it must see.
PCBy the Pixl Canada install team. Updated . 5 min read.
- Five camera types in one table
- Dome vs bullet head to head
- IP vs analog basics
- Free written quote for wired CCTV
- Dome for indoors and tamper resistance. Bullet for long outdoor views.
- Turret is a good all-rounder with less IR glare.
- PTZ and panoramic cover big areas with fewer cameras.
- IP cameras give higher resolution than analog and run on a network cable.
What are the types of CCTV cameras?
| Type | Shape | Best for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dome | Half-sphere housing | Indoors, ceilings, vandal-prone spots | Can fog or reflect in the dome |
| Bullet | Tube shape | Long outdoor views and clear deterrent | Easier to reach and aim away |
| Turret | Ball on a base | Outdoor and indoor, less infrared glare | Cannot swivel inside a dome |
| PTZ | Motorized head | Large open areas. See the PTZ guide | Higher cost, moving parts |
| Panoramic (fisheye) | Wide-lens dome | Cover a whole room from one point | Software is needed to flatten the image |
What is the difference between dome and bullet cameras?
| Factor | Dome | Bullet |
|---|---|---|
| Looks | Discreet, hard to tell where it points | Visible and obvious, a clear deterrent |
| Tamper resistance | Higher, with a vandal-resistant dome | Lower, easier to turn away |
| Long-range views | Good at moderate range | Often better at distance |
| Best spot | Ceilings, indoors, entrances | Outdoor walls, perimeters, driveways |
Are IP cameras better than analog?
Most new systems use IP cameras. IP cameras send video over a network cable and can supply higher resolution than analog, while analog cameras use coaxial cable and a DVR. See NVR vs DVR for the recorder side, PoE camera systems for how one cable powers an IP camera, and 4K security cameras for resolution.
How do you pick the right type of camera?
- List each position and whether it is indoors or outdoors.
- Decide the job: face, plate, wide scene or deterrent.
- Match the type: dome indoors, bullet outdoors, turret as an all-rounder, PTZ for open areas.
- Check the mount height and reach so the camera is out of easy reach.
- Plan the cable route and recorder before you buy.
Where each camera goes is covered in where to place security cameras. For business sites, see commercial camera installation cost. Wired CCTV quotes are free, and you pay after the job.
Types of CCTV cameras: frequently asked questions
What are the main types of CCTV cameras?
Dome, bullet, turret, PTZ and panoramic (fisheye).
Is a dome or a bullet camera better?
Dome is better indoors and where tampering is a risk. Bullet is better for long outdoor views.
What is a turret camera?
A ball-style camera on a base that reduces infrared glare, good for indoors and outdoors.
What is the difference between IP and analog cameras?
IP cameras send video over a network cable and offer higher resolution. Analog cameras use coax cable and a DVR.
Do I need different cameras for indoors and outdoors?
Yes. Outdoor cameras need a weather rating, such as IP65 or higher.
Does Pixl install all these camera types?
Send photos of the site to (587) 899-7495 and we tell you what fits. Wired CCTV quotes are free.
Not sure which camera goes where?
Send photos of each spot. We tell you what fits. Wired CCTV quotes are free, and you pay after the job.
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PTZ camera guide
How far a camera can see (DORI)
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Sources and method. General industry descriptions of camera types. Specs vary by model, so check the manufacturer’s data sheet. No prices are quoted.
About Pixl Canada. Pixl Canada is an installation company based in Edmonton, Alberta, serving cities across Canada with TV mounting, security cameras, appliance installation and smart home setup. Call or text (587) 899-7495. Open Monday to Saturday 8am to 8pm and Sunday 9am to 7pm.