As 4K televisions and monitors have become increasingly affordable, 4K resolution is now gaining popularity in security cameras, gradually surpassing 1080p as the go-to choice for high-definition video. However, making the right decision for your business involves weighing both the pros and cons. This guide offers essential insights for businesses looking to invest in a new security camera system.
Understanding 4K
A common misconception is that 4K refers to 4 megapixels; in reality, it equates to approximately 8 megapixels, providing about four times the resolution of a standard 1080p image. For a more detailed comparison of 4K, 4MP, and 1080p resolutions, check out our in-depth blog post on this topic.
Does More Resolution Mean Better Quality?
While a higher resolution can suggest better image quality, this isn’t always the case. Various factors influence the overall video quality, including performance in low light, wide dynamic range (WDR), frame rate, sensor size, and the lens’s optical zoom and focus capabilities. Consequently, the camera’s resolution may not always be the most critical criterion in your selection process.
The Cost of 4K Technology
Despite the growing availability of low-priced 4K security cameras, it’s essential to understand the trade-offs involved. Investing in budget 4K cameras often means sacrificing reliability, durability, and performance, particularly in challenging lighting conditions. Although quality 4K options exist, they typically come with a higher price tag.
Storage Demands
The increase in pixel count leads to larger file sizes, posing significant storage challenges for security systems. Generally, a 4K video can demand twice the storage of a 4MP video and quadruple that of a 1080p video when using standard compression methods. Some systems, like Uniview’s H.265 Ultra codec, can help mitigate this issue by enhancing compression efficiency. For instance, a Uniview 4K camera may utilize only a third more bandwidth than its 5MP counterpart, despite having a 60% higher resolution.
Processing Power Requirements
Complete security camera systems, including standalone network video recorders (NVR), function like specialized computers. The processor within these devices is tasked with decoding, recording, and displaying video from the cameras. Higher resolution demands more from the processor, which can lead to performance issues. Not all NVRs are equipped to handle 4K cameras, and overloading a compatible system can cause lag and connectivity problems.
Viewing Challenges at Full Resolution
If your intention is to view the camera feed on a 4K display, you might think that opting for 4K cameras is the best choice. However, keep in mind that most systems can only display one 4K camera in full resolution at a time. Given that many users prefer to monitor multiple feeds simultaneously—often viewing up to eight or even 64 cameras—4K feeds will need to be downgraded in resolution to fit more than one on screen at a time.
Cabling Considerations
If you’re worried that using lower resolution cameras might hinder future upgrades to 4K, rest assured. All IP-based systems utilize network cables, and while we advocate for CAT6 cabling for security systems, CAT5E is adequate for a 4K setup. This means that if you decide to transition to 4K later, you can easily replace your old cameras with new ones using the existing cabling infrastructure.
The Advantages of 4K
4K cameras do offer distinct advantages, especially when it comes to playback video. Although it’s challenging to view multiple feeds in full 4K resolution simultaneously, playback typically focuses on individual cameras. The enhanced resolution allows for greater digital zoom capability, crucial when you can’t manipulate optical zoom in playback footage. This feature enables viewers to see finer details in the images.
When comparing similar cameras from the same manufacturer, a 4K model with equivalent features and a larger sensor will generally outperform a lower resolution camera. If your budget allows, investing in a quality 4K system will undoubtedly yield impressive results. However, it’s worth noting that a low-cost 4K camera may not impress as much as a higher-quality camera with a lower resolution, especially in varied conditions.