4K vs 5MP vs 1080p vs 720p Security Cameras - ZOSI (2024)

4K Video Surveillance Cameras. Are They Right For Me?

4K surveillance is the latest offering in the world of HD video surveillance cameras. The 4K label on a camera means that the device will record images at a level of about 12 megapixels or video at double the resolution of a standard HD TV (1920 x 1080).

So, have you ever thought about buying a 4K security camera?Or should you continue to use 5MP/1080p/720p security cameras?That’s exactly what I’m going to show you in this article — 4K vs. 5MP vs. 1080p (2MP) vs. 720p security cameras.

Below is a complete comparison between 4K security cameras, 5MP security cameras, 1080p security cameras, and 720p security cameras, as well as insights into what might happen in the future.

Resolution Differences

All four cameras are used in video surveillance, yet they don’t provide the same resolution and image quality. A 720p camera has the smallest resolution (1280×720) which means it captures the smallest area. This makes it an acceptable option for small shops and tiny offices, but a bad choice for warehouses and other large areas.

A 1080p camera provides a resolution roughly 2 times higher (1920×1080) than its 720p counterpart. It means it captures double the size a 720p camera does, which makes 1080p a great tool for surveilling medium-size areas like offices, shops, backyards, medium-size warehouses. You may need more cameras of this type if you want to get a large warehouse covered by your video surveillance system.

One more thing to know about 1080p cameras is that they provide a lower image quality when zoomed compared to 5MP (2592×1944) and 4K (3840×2160) cameras. The zoomed image of 5MP and 4K is clear and detailed, yet the 4k allows to see even more details given its deeper zoom. When it comes to resolution, 4K camera covers a 1.5 larger area than the 5MP one.

Let’s dive in:

• 4K Ultra HD security cameraspossess a high resolution of 3840*2160 with over 8 million pixels. And they are also called 8MP/2160p security cameras. Though 4K IP cameras are not budget-accessible and prevailing now, they can greatly enhance your video streaming experience with no doubt.
• 5MP Super HD security cameras, also known as 5MP security cameras, gain a resolution of 2560*1920. They are currently the mainstream in the security camera filed and deliver much clearer images than 1080p and 720p IP cameras.
• 1080p Full HD security camerasproduce images with the resolution of 1920*1080. They are suitable for the general-purpose video surveillance but sometimes may fail to figure out small details from a distance.
• 720p HD security camerasshoot images with 128*720 pixels per unit. Due to the growing demand for higher quality images and videos, 720p security IP cameras are now gradually losing their grip in the market.

Full Comparison List

Now, let’s drill down deeper to check out the differences among 4K security cameras, 5MP security cameras, 1080p security cameras and 720p security cameras, from the following aspects:

1. Image Quality

The 720p camera obviously has the lowest image quality that goes along with low resolution, poor color fidelity, and weak zoom. Before you install such a camera, you should understand that you won’t have the chance to analyze the recorded object in detail. A 1080p camera comes with a more user-friendly zoom (yet not the best one) and a better color spectrum. The non-zoomed image is good-quality and allows you to recognize a person by their major traits.

Nonetheless, 1080p (2MP) device loses to 5MP camera whose image is pretty clear even after a 3x zoom. Nothing compares, though, to ZOSI 4K ultra HD security system. It boasts an outstanding image quality supporting a mind-blowing 5x zoom that’s highly detail-friendly and allows you to capture everything that moves in the recorded area. The night vision is also remarkable.

2. Field of View

When it comes to the field of view, you might expect the 4K camera to reign supreme. You would be absolutely right. Given millions of pixels packed in one image and built-in wide-angle lenses (Megapixel security cameras are often packed with wide-angle lenses), 4K cameras provide a wider field of view. And while it is possible to reconfigure 5MP and 1080p cameras so that they cover wide areas, there is no point in it. The edges of the image will be obscure and you will fail to recognize any physical traits of people, number plates, and other small details.

3. Bandwidth & Storage Consumption

The ultra HD 4K camera requires 4-5 times more bandwidth than HD camera (1080p). Sometimes, it takes 25 Mbps for 4K camera to function at full capacity.

But thanks toH.265 high-efficiency codingadopted by 4K IP security cameras, the bandwidth utilization and storage consumption can be reduced by about 50% without sacrificing the image quality.

So don’t fall into this common myth again, that 4K surveillance cameras eat up more bandwidth and take up more storage space than 5MP, 1080p or 720p CCTV security cameras.

4. Compatibility

Good news for those who have a 5MP monitor or TV set. Such monitor is compatible with 1080p, 5MP and 720p cameras. So if you buy one of these cameras, there is no need to buy a new monitor. Things get complicated with 4K IP security cameras because they don’t support the 4MP monitor. You will have to buy a 4K monitor.

5. Cost

The cheapest camera of all four is the 720p one, but it doesn’t mean it’s the best investment for all scenarios. For example, a 720p camera may do a part of the trick when installed on entrance doors, yet the image will not be very clear. It’s also a wrong choice for a large warehouse because you will have to install multiple 720p cameras to capture the whole area which will have you spend a lot of money.

ZOSI 1080p camera with better image quality and better resolution, and the price is equivalent to a 720P camera. Again, it becomes a good investment when aimed at surveilling a space that is compatible with its resolution. 4K Camera is the most expensive video surveillance option. However, it captures a large area which allows you to buy only a few cameras to record the whole parking lot, warehouse or supermarket.

Which One Should You Choose

Understanding the right resolution for security cameras involves considering the specific purposes and scenarios in which they will be employed. Different resolutions offer varying advantages and suitability for different use cases.

Look through the usages of 4K security cameras, 5MP security cameras, 1080p security cameras, and 720p security cameras below to decide which your best bet is.

1. When to Choose 4K Surveillance Cameras:

Opt for a 4K camera when you have a substantial budget and are looking to cover large areas with a single camera. If your goal is to analyze recorded objects in intricate detail, a 4K camera is a must. It excels in monitoring scenarios such as expansive warehouses, hypermarkets, construction sites, spacious backyards, and long hallways in larger facilities.

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2. When to Choose 5MP Security Cameras:

5MP resolution is the sweet spot if you need to capture clear images of small objects from a distance. With a reasonable budget, these cameras are ideal for recording in medium-sized commercial or residential areas. They are well-suited for applications like monitoring small and medium-sized businesses, parking lots, driveways, and home entrances.

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3. When to Choose 1080p Security Cameras:

If you’re working within a tight budget and require surveillance of small areas, 1080p resolution is a practical choice. It’s suitable for scenarios like monitoring entrances, garages, farms, small shops, and other compact spaces where high-definition imagery is necessary.

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4. When to Choose 720p Security Cameras:

Due to their low resolution and potential image blurriness, it’s advisable to avoid investing in 720p cameras. In most cases, higher-resolution options, such as 1080p or 5MP cameras, offer better image quality and are often priced similarly.

FAQ

Q1. How Does Resolution Affect Bandwidth and Storage?

A: Higher-resolution cameras, such as 4K, do require more bandwidth and storage compared to lower resolutions like 1080p or 720p. However, advancements like H.265 high-efficiency coding help reduce the impact on bandwidth and storage consumption while maintaining image quality.

Q2. Can I Use Different Resolution Cameras in the Same System?

A: Yes, many surveillance systems allow you to mix cameras of different resolutions. However, keep in mind that the overall system performance might be limited by the lowest resolution camera. Balancing camera types can provide flexibility while maintaining quality.

Q3. What’s the Role of Field of View in Resolution Selection?

A: Resolution affects the field of view of a camera. Higher-resolution cameras offer wider coverage and can often replace multiple lower-resolution cameras, reducing blind spots and installation costs in larger areas.

Q4. Does Light Conditions Affect Resolution Choice?

A: Absolutely, lighting conditions play a role in how resolution impacts image quality. In well-lit areas, lower resolutions might still provide acceptable results. However, in challenging lighting conditions or for capturing fine details, higher resolutions shine.

Q5. Is it Worth Investing in Higher Resolution for Future-Proofing?

A: Investing in higher resolutions like 4K might be costlier initially, but it can future-proof your system. As technology evolves, lower-resolution cameras might become outdated, necessitating further investments. High-resolution cameras can remain relevant for a more extended period.

Conclusion

On the whole, all four cameras differ in many ways. While the 720p camera comes at a lower price, it is a weak player in the video surveillance field. You are much better off choosing one of the remaining cameras. 5MP and 1080p cameras fit a medium budget and provide decent image quality and resolution that prove the surveillance system is not installed in vain. If you want, though, to get the best of the best on the market now, go for a 4K camera with 12-megapixel resolution, multifold digital zoom, and a wide field of view.