When purchasing a security camera, we usually come across terms such as 4K, 1440P, 1080P, 720P, etc., which not only represent different screen resolutions, but also have other differences. Through this blog, we hope to make users more aware of the importance of screen resolution so that they can make a more appropriate choice when purchasing.
What is 4K Resolution?
4K resolution is an image with approximately 4,000 pixels horizontally, also known as Ultra High Definition (UHD), which delivers 3840x2160 pixels, four times the number of pixels in standard 1080P. It is also sometimes referred to as 2160P, although this number refers to the number of vertical pixels in a 4K image.
Several different 4K resolutions are commonly used in our common fields, such as digital television and digital cinema. In television and consumer media, 3840x2160 (4K UHD) is the main 4K standard, and in movie projection, 4096x2160 (DCI 4K) is the main one used. 4K has 8 million pixels, which provides the viewer with a very detailed, very realistic visual experience. From vibrant colors to intricate details, 4K resolution provides perfect clarity and depth, giving the user the ultimate viewing experience, and is very suitable for professional design, gaming graphics, and high-definition movies.
What is 1440P?
P stands for Progressive Scan, which indicates that each frame of the video is drawn sequentially, providing a smoother and more detailed image as opposed to alternating scans.
1440P is a video display resolution with a vertical resolution of 1440 pixels, also known as 2K resolution (QHD), offering 2560x1440 pixels, 1440P provides more pixel density and higher clarity compared to the standard 1080P resolution.
1440P is typically used in devices with lower hardware requirements and performance, such as common monitors, some televisions, and video equipment, to provide a clear image without putting a strong strain on the device hardware.
What is 1080p?
1080P also known as Full High Definition (HD), delivers 1920x1080 pixels and is the most common video resolution used as a standard resolution in the media field and computer use.
In daily life, it can be used in other electronic consumer products such as computer monitors, TV players, and smartphones. It is the primary choice for most users, saving costs while providing good visual quality and performance ratio.
What is 720P?
720P is a commonly used resolution concept in TV and digital video, also known as HD Ready, which generally refers to 1280x720 pixels, and is usually used in live broadcasting and broadcasting because of its stable data transmission characteristics. It can provide quality images and videos with limited resources and is a very affordable and widely used resolution standard.
The Main Differences Between 4K, 1440P, 1080P and 720P in Security Cameras
Image Quality
The results of many practices have shown that the higher the resolution of a security camera, the better the image quality will be and the more details will be captured.
Compared to 1440P, 1080P, and 720P, 4K security cameras can provide perfect image quality, more enduring details, and sharper clarity. When users need to capture details from a distance, 4K security cameras can provide sharper images and video, allowing users to accurately identify details from a distance for better home security and property safety.
Surveillance Field of View
Most security cameras with megapixels are designed with a wide-angle lens to monitor more area, 4K security cameras will have a wider surveillance field of view than the other three surveillance cameras, allowing for more comprehensive home security.
Of course, we can choose to use multiple cameras with lower pixels to expand the surveillance area, but this may cost more money and time.
Storage Space
At the same video standard, the higher the pixel security cameras consume more storage space, and 4K cameras will take up more storage space than the other three. However, if a 4K security camera uses H.265 high-efficiency video encoding, storage consumption will be reduced by about 50% while maintaining image quality. Therefore, not in all cases, 4K security cameras will produce the greatest storage consumption, mainly based on the video encoding to judge.
Cost
Typically, the amount of money you need to spend on a high-resolution security camera is more expensive than a low-resolution security camera. In terms of surveillance range, one 4K security camera can cover a larger surveillance range than multiple 720P security cameras, so in terms of total cost, a larger surveillance range will be more cost-effective with a 4K security camera. Therefore, when choosing the most suitable security camera, you can combine it with the surveillance range you need to cover and your budget.
How Should I Choose The Right Security Camera?
When Choosing A 4K Security Surveillance Camera:
- Need to cover a wide range of surveillance
- High-quality requirements for the captured surveillance images and a very large budget
Applicable Scenarios:
- Private businesses, such as restaurants, stores, hotels, etc.
- Closed areas, such as warehouses, parking lots, etc.
- Denser areas, such as driveways, residential areas, etc.
For example, the Campark SC36 security monitoring system can shoot 4K ultra-clear video, allowing users to view all monitoring details and protect the safety of every part of the home.
When Choosing A 2K Security Surveillance Camera:
- 2K resolution can meet the quality requirements of surveillance video
- Adequate budget
Applicable Scenarios:
- Residential areas, such as front door, back door, etc.
- More closed areas, such as warehouses, parking lots, etc.
- Denser areas, such as driveways, construction sites, etc.
For example, the Campark SC43 wireless solar security camera can not only capture 2K high-definition video, covering a 360° surveillance area, but also allows users to remotely operate the camera.
When Choosing A 1080P Security Surveillance Camera:
- The budget is not that sufficient
- Only need an entry-level security camera for general surveillance use
Applicable Scenarios:
- Small businesses and small warehouses
- Boats and marinas
- Restaurants and bars, etc.
For example, the Campark W204 security camera is not only equipped with a 1TB large-capacity storage hard drive, but can also shoot 2MP high-definition videos and 1080P clear images to monitor house and property security from all angles.
When Choosing A 720P Security Surveillance Camera:
720P security cameras are more difficult to see in the market and the quality of the images captured is not as clear as the previous three security cameras, so if you need to see the surveillance images clearly, it is still recommended to buy a higher resolution security surveillance camera if you have a better budget.
Conclusion
In an age of rapidly advancing digital technology, understanding the difference between multiple resolutions can play a huge role in choosing the right security camera, and whether you're a homeowner, image designer, or casual user, having a grasp of these digital differences can help you make a more sound choice.