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How to choose the right CCTV camera in Bangladesh

1. IP camera vs HD analog camera

IP cameras transmit video over your network — they give higher resolution, remote viewing over internet and smart AI features. HD analog cameras (TVI/CVI) run over coaxial cable and are ideal for upgrading existing CCTV systems without rewiring. For new installations, IP is almost always the better choice.

2. Resolution — how much detail do you need?

• 2MP (1080p):Sufficient for small offices, homes and shops where you need to identify faces at close range.
• 4MP / 5MP:Good balance for medium offices, retail and corridors — clear enough to read licence plates at moderate distances.
• 4K / 8MP:Best for banks, large lobbies, car parks and anywhere you need to zoom in on recorded footage. Required for number-plate identification.

3. Indoor vs outdoor cameras

Outdoor cameras must be rated at least IP66 (dust-tight and jet-water resistant) for Bangladesh's monsoon conditions. Indoor dome cameras are typically IP40–IP54, which is fine for climate-controlled spaces. Do not fit an indoor camera outdoors — it will fail within one rainy season.

4. Camera type by location

• Dome camera:Best for ceilings indoors — discreet, vandal-resistant, wide angle. Ideal for offices, retail and corridors.
• Bullet camera:Best for outdoor walls and entrances — visible deterrent, long IR range (up to 80m).
• Turret / eyeball:Flexible mounting angle, easy to adjust after installation. Good general-purpose indoor and outdoor use.
• PTZ camera:Pan-Tilt-Zoom — covers wide areas with motorised movement. Best for large open areas like car parks, yards and stadiums.
• Fisheye / 360°:Single camera covers a full room with no blind spots. Ideal for large open-plan offices and showrooms.

5. Storage — DVR vs NVR and how much?

IP cameras need an NVR; HD analog cameras need a DVR. Storage needed depends on number of cameras, resolution and retention days. A general guide: 4 × 2MP cameras at 1080p require roughly 1TB for 15–20 days of 24-hour recording. For banks requiring 90-day retention, scale accordingly. Always add 20% buffer to your HDD estimate.