Types of CCTV Cameras in Kenya
Complete guide to CCTV camera types, features, and best applications for Kenyan homes, businesses, and organizations.
Main CCTV Camera Types
Understanding different camera types helps you choose the right security solution for your specific needs and environment.
Dome Cameras
KES 3,500 - 15,000
Indoor surveillance, retail stores, offices
✅ Advantages
- Vandal-resistant design
- Discreet appearance
- 360-degree rotation options
- Hard to determine viewing direction
⚠️ Considerations
- • Limited range compared to bullets
- • Dome can collect dust/dirt
- • More expensive than bullets
🎯 Ideal Use Cases
Bullet Cameras
KES 3,000 - 12,000
Outdoor monitoring, long-range viewing
✅ Advantages
- Excellent long-range viewing
- Easy to install and adjust
- Weatherproof options
- Cost-effective
⚠️ Considerations
- • Visible and obvious
- • Can be tampered with easily
- • Limited viewing angle
🎯 Ideal Use Cases
Wireless Cameras
KES 3,200 - 22,000
Easy installation, remote locations
✅ Advantages
- No cable runs needed
- Easy installation
- Mobile monitoring
- Flexible placement
⚠️ Considerations
- • Requires strong WiFi signal
- • Battery maintenance for wire-free
- • Potential interference
🎯 Ideal Use Cases
PTZ Cameras
KES 25,000 - 80,000
Large area surveillance, active monitoring
✅ Advantages
- Pan, tilt, zoom capabilities
- Large coverage area
- Remote control
- Tracking features
⚠️ Considerations
- • Higher cost
- • Complex installation
- • Requires operator knowledge
🎯 Ideal Use Cases
Camera Type Comparisons
Side-by-side comparisons to help you make the right choice for your security needs.
Dome vs Bullet Cameras
| Feature | Option 1 | Option 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Installation | Ceiling mount | Wall/ceiling mount |
| Visibility | Discreet | Obvious deterrent |
| Vandal resistance | High | Low |
| Range | Medium | Long |
| Cost | Higher | Lower |
| Best for | Indoor/retail | Outdoor/perimeter |
Wireless vs Wired CCTV
| Feature | Option 1 | Option 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Installation | Easy/quick | Cable runs needed |
| Reliability | Signal dependent | Very reliable |
| Power | Battery/solar | Continuous power |
| Cost | Higher upfront | Lower ongoing |
| Flexibility | High | Limited |
| Maintenance | Battery changes | Minimal |
Best Camera Types for Different Locations in Kenya
Specific recommendations based on common Kenyan business and residential environments.
Retail Shops in Nairobi
Discreet monitoring, vandal-resistant, covers customer areas effectively
Typical Setup:
- 4-6 dome cameras
- 1080p resolution
- Night vision
- Mobile viewing
Residential Homes
Perimeter security with easy installation for remote monitoring
Typical Setup:
- 2-4 bullet cameras outside
- 1-2 wireless inside
- Motion detection
- WhatsApp alerts
Office Buildings
Dome cameras indoors, bullet cameras for entrances and parking
Typical Setup:
- Dome for reception/corridors
- Bullet for entrances
- PTZ for large areas
- Access control integration
Warehouses & Factories
Large area coverage with detailed perimeter monitoring
Typical Setup:
- PTZ for main floor
- Bullet for perimeter
- High-resolution
- Motion tracking
Key Technical Features to Consider
Resolution
- 720p HD: Basic quality, KES 3,000-5,000
- 1080p Full HD: Standard choice, KES 5,000-8,000
- 4K Ultra HD: Premium quality, KES 12,000+
Night Vision
- IR Range: 10-30m for most applications
- Full Color: Color vision at night
- Starlight: Ultra-low light performance
Weather Protection
- IP65: Good for most outdoor use
- IP66: Excellent weather protection
- IP67: Submersion protection
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: dome or bullet cameras?
It depends on your needs. Dome cameras are better for indoor retail environments due to their discreet appearance and vandal resistance. Bullet cameras excel for outdoor perimeter monitoring with their long-range capabilities and lower cost.
Are wireless CCTV cameras reliable in Kenya?
Yes, wireless CCTV cameras work well in Kenya's urban areas with good internet connectivity. However, ensure strong WiFi signal strength and consider 4G LTE cameras for remote locations without reliable internet.
What camera type is best for small shops in Nairobi?
For small shops in Nairobi, we recommend 2-4 dome cameras (1080p) for indoor coverage and 1-2 bullet cameras for entrance monitoring. This provides comprehensive coverage with vandal-resistant indoor cameras.
Do I need different camera types for indoor and outdoor use?
Generally yes. Indoor cameras can be basic dome or wireless types, while outdoor cameras need weatherproof bullet or PTZ cameras with higher IP ratings (IP65+) to handle Kenya's weather conditions.
Need Help Choosing the Right CCTV Camera Type?
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