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How important is security camera resolution to your surveillance system in Riverside?

December 09, 2024
Person inspecting surveillance footage on tablet

You’re ready to upgrade the security of your Riverside home and anticipate adding the latest surveillance equipment. But what type of cameras should you select, and how essential is security camera resolution to the setup’s effectiveness? Discover what you should consider regarding resolution and investigate other factors like active deterrence that can make a big difference.

What does 1080p, high-def, Ultra HD, and Quad HD mean?

Video resolution can become a little confusing with the different terminology used today. Are you clear on what 4K and Quad HD represent? What does 1080p signify? These terms refer to pixels, and the higher the number, the sharper the picture. Here’s a short breakdown of what you may come across.

  • 720p: This option uses 1280 pixels horizontally and 720 vertically. It’s considered the starting point for high-def (HD). You might also find the once common 480p standard, which has 704 pixels across by 480 vertically.
  • 1080p or Full HD: This is the most widespread high-def standard in security camera resolution. It’s a good fit for surveillance and won’t overburden your home Wi-Fi network.
  • 2K or Quad HD: Providing sharper images than full HD with pixel quantities of 2560 (horizontally) by 1440 (down). The 2K indicates the number of pixels in the horizontal measurement.
  • 4K or Ultra HD: With nearly 4,000 pixels across, 4K or Ultra HD is the highest offering. The true resolution is 3840 by 2160.

Due to the immensity of the video recordings, transferring and keeping 2K and 4K footage can be a challenge for various home Wi-Fi networks and might impact performance.

Is it smart to employ a 4K sensor with only 1080p resolution?

The different image sensor options add an extra element to the situation. You can have a 4K sensor with a 1080p resolution output. But should you do so? For many, the answer is yes. You can enjoy crisper details, enhanced low-light functionality, and fuller color by recording the image at a more robust resolution and then downscaling it to 1080p. You might also find the image maintains its integrity better when zooming and cropping.

What additional security camera features could you think about?

While security camera resolution in Riverside is significant, you might also evaluate the other functionality you need. Sophisticated security systems from foremost suppliers give you numerous advantages. Here are several of the tools you can enjoy:

  • Smart detection: Using AI-driven video analysis, surveillance cameras can now detect differences between animals, vehicles, packages, and people. You won’t get as many unneeded alerts from a more intelligent type of home defense.
  • Active deterrence: Select cameras actively prevent criminal behavior by releasing audible and visual signals when trespassers venture too close. You can also install cameras that come with a bright spotlight.
  • Instant alerts: Premium models send automatic communications to your cell phone when concerning activity is detected. You’ll know what’s occurring no matter where you are.
  • Two-way audio: If someone is detected lurking around your premises, you can warn them yourself through the camera’s built-in audio system.
  • Night vision: Get crisp images day or night and with all levels of light via night vision.

Discover the best security cameras in Riverside from Vivint

Get all the features you want, like active deterrence, smart detection, and night vision, when you choose the home security professionals at Vivint. We’ve raised the level of home surveillance and look forward to finding a solution for your Riverside residence. Contact (951) 477-3741 today to customize your smart home with exterior and interior cameras.