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What is the Difference Between Dome Cameras and Bullet Cameras?

January 21, 2021|fsstechnologies

Security cameras are an integral part of a security system in any home or business. They give you access to a video stream of what is happening inside a building or on your property while also giving the owner the ability to look back on footage if necessary. There are many different types of CCTV cameras out there, and the friendly team of security experts at FSS Technologies is always happy to answer questions about them all.

Two of the most prevalent types of CCTV cameras are bullet and dome cameras. Let’s dig into the similarities and differences between the two. One or both may be the right fit for your system.

Dome Cameras

A dome camera is named for the spherical and dome-like appearance of protective encasing. The dome protects the camera from vandalism while also keeping the lens of the camera in good condition.  

These cameras are generally placed on a ceiling or under the overhang of a roof. They can also be placed on a wall if needed. These small cameras are ideal for indoor settings because they are discreet and unobtrusive.

  • The dome camera is low-profile and can be placed indoors or outdoors.

  • Rotation creates a wide camera angle.

  • The dome can obscure the view of the lens, so intruders may think that they are out of view.

The dome camera is low-profile and can be placed indoors or outdoors.

Rotation creates a wide camera angle.

The dome can obscure the view of the lens, so intruders may think that they are out of view.

  • The dome can get dirty due to the elements and needs regular maintenance.

  • Dome cameras can be challenging to install or move.

The dome can get dirty due to the elements and needs regular maintenance.

Dome cameras can be challenging to install or move.

Bullet Cameras

These larger cameras are named for their long cylindrical shape and can be used both indoors and outdoors. The classic appearance of this camera is an immediate deterrent because anyone can see that your house is protected by a security system.

  • Long range vision is stronger and capable of getting clear images of faraway objects.

  • Easy to install and move.

Long range vision is stronger and capable of getting clear images of faraway objects.

Easy to install and move.

  • More limited area covered by each camera.

  • An intruder or vandal could modify the placement.

  • Can be a perch for nests or spider webs.

More limited area covered by each camera.

An intruder or vandal could modify the placement.

Can be a perch for nests or spider webs.

Related Blogs

We have a series of blogs on video surveillance that you may find useful.

Where Should Security Cameras be Installed in a Business?
What are the Best Outdoor Security Cameras?
Wired vs. Wireless Security Cameras
How to Hide a Camera in Plain Sight

Which One to Choose?

You may choose to have one or both types of cameras as a part of your surveillance system, but the ultimate decision will come down to the goals and areas the cameras are covering. If you are looking to place the camera indoors or have it record a limited area, a dome camera will suit your needs. In contrast, outdoor placement or a more distant area will require a bullet camera to get higher quality images.

Not sure where to begin? Our team of security experts is ready to help. Give us a call and we can walk you through our installation process.

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