CCTV cameras are a useful security tool. But as there are several different types of them available, it can be difficult to decide which ones to buy.
Dome cameras are a particularly popular type of CCTV camera. This is partly because they’re discreet, affordable and vandal-proof.
To help you determine if dome cameras are the right CCTV camera for you, we’ve come up with a list of their benefits and drawbacks.
Benefits of dome cameras
Vandal-proof
A great benefit of these cameras is that they’re almost completely vandal-proof. This is because they’re small, strong and don’t extend far from whatever they’re mounted on. Cameras that protrude from walls and ceilings, like bullet and box cameras, can be knocked or pulled off. Dome cameras, on the hand, generally stay where they are.
Affordable
Another reason why dome cameras are popular is because they’re affordable. Although they range in price, they’re usually a very similar price to bullet cameras and generally cheaper than box cameras.
Discreet
If you’re looking for something discreet, a dome camera is a great choice. Because they don’t extend significantly from the walls and ceilings they’re usually attached to, they can easily blend in and go unnoticed.
Weatherproof
Dome cameras are also popular because they’re weatherproof. Many people tend to use them indoors rather than outdoors. However, there’s no reason why you can’t use them outside as most types are tough and won’t get damaged by the weather.
Drawbacks of dome cameras
Difficult to adjust
A drawback to these cameras is that they’re difficult to adjust. Once bullet and box cameras have been installed they can easily be moved to adjust where they’re pointing. Unfortunately, it’s not possible to do this with dome cameras. If you want to adjust them you usually have to take them off whatever they’re fixed to and reinstall them in a different position.
Usually only short-range
Another downside to dome cameras is that most of them are only short-range. This is fine if this is all you need, but if you want a camera to take long-range footage then you might be better off with a box camera.
Price
From around £40
Not including installation
Installation time
Less than 1 day
Advantages and disadvantages
- Vandal-proof
- Affordable
- Discreet
- Weatherproof
- Difficult to adjust
- Usually only short-range