Skip to main content

4K security camera vs. 1080p video comparison

When it comes to security cameras, there are a lot of different factors in choosing the best one for you. Between innovative features, hardware components, and the ecosystem you use at home, there’s no shortage of cameras that can be a perfect fit. Resolution is a key differentiator, but what kind of image quality do you need? We’re going to explain the difference between 4K or 1080p security cameras.

As is the case with digital cameras, just because one camera has a higher megapixel count doesn’t automatically mean the camera is better. These numbers have different situations in which they prevail. So let’s dive in and see which camera resolution is right for your particular circumstance.

Defining resolutions

Zumimall security camera installed on side of house in the rain.
Zumimall

Resolution numbers are determined by the size of the image the camera records. For example, 1080p means the image the camera can capture can be up to 1080 pixels in height by 1920 pixels in length. Typically, cameras need at least a 2 MP sensor to capture 1080p. When you hear someone mention high-definition, it usually means 1080p or higher, although it might also refer to 720p.

By comparison, 4K is four times as big or as detailed as 1080p. A 4k image equates to one that’s 2160 pixels in height paired with 3840 pixels in width. The camera would have to have at least an 8MP sensor to get this level of detail.

Features

There are definitely different parts of taking a photo or video to consider when discussing resolution. First, let’s talk about the surveillance coverage. Resolution doesn’t determine field of view, but a 4K camera will show more detail in an image than a 1080p camera.

This field of view difference really comes into effect depending on the location you want to cover. At longer distances, such as a parking lot, a 4K camera can show faces more clearly. Within a home or somewhere at a shorter distance, 1080p can depict faces.

Secondly, 4K captures so much more detail and information than 1080p. This detail can easily be seen in the storage sizes of the videos. Five 4K cameras will require a much higher amount of storage than five 1080p cameras. Hard drives usually aren’t the most expensive thing to consider when setting up your system, but the storage requirement is something to consider.

Also, with that much detail, you can see more in the frame. You can zoom in farther with 4K resolution without the image becoming unviewable. To capture lettering or other small details in the recording, 4K is your best bet.

Another thing to consider is the hardware needed to run 4K security cameras over 1080p cameras. These resource needs come down to your monitor as well. While you don’t necessarily need a 4K monitor to view the extra detail in a 4K camera, you’d be wasting most of the advantages. It would be best to have a 4K capable TV or monitor when equipping your system with 4K cameras. Luckily, 4K TVs aren’t that expensive nowadays, although monitors can still be somewhat pricey. You might also need more than one monitor depending on the size of your security system.

To circle back to the extra data captured by 4K cameras, detail can be affected with higher resolution sensors. Light, the main ingredient in capturing a good image, can affect the recordings more. Since 4K captures more data, it can capture more light, which may be harmful in an image. A bright light that shines into the 4K cameras may blow out the image. On the opposite end, low light may be more drastic on 4K compared with 1080p.

Price

The next and possibly most important thing to consider when choosing between a higher or lower-resolution camera system is the cost attached to each. Per camera, a 4K camera will cost more than a 1080p camera. This price difference is due to higher-powered hardware.

This price discrepancy goes back to the location that needs security. A house that only requires one camera in the backyard will be less expensive paired with the 1080p cameras system vs. the 4K.

Is 4K worth it?

Higher resolution is almost always better, but it depends on cost and other factors. Of course, looking at just numbers on a page, disregarding budget, 4K is purely better than a 1080p at capturing information and data. Better image quality means better security, but some security is better than none at all. If your budget is limited, 1080p is sufficient — but if it allows it, consider investing in 4K cameras.

FAQ

Is a 4K camera better than 1080p?

Purely talking about specs, 4K is objectively better than 1080p. It captures much more information and allows for a wider area of view.

Is 4K security cameras worth it?

4K cameras are worth the upgrade and price if you have the means to utilize its features. For example, if you only need surveillance for a residential home, paying extra for 4K cameras may not be required.

Is 1080p enough for a security camera?

1080p resolution is sufficient for a security camera depending on your surveillance needs. However, upgrading your camera choice would be more beneficial if you’re trying to secure a larger area or a small business.

Will 4K cameras work with 1080p DVR?

Yes, a 4K camera will work with a 1080p DVR, but you would lose the benefits of an upgraded resolution.

Editors' Recommendations

Topics
Keyan Riddick
Keyan Riddick is a freelance writer based in the mountains on North Carolina. When he isn't writing you can find him behind…
This 4-camera Lorex wireless video surveillence system is $200 off
A Lorex 2K Wireless camera mounted on an outside wall.

One of the best security camera deals today is over at Crutchfield with $200 off the Lorex 2K Wireless NVR System. Usually priced at $550, it’s down to a fantastic $350 until March 17. That means you don’t have very long to enjoy the significant discount. If you need to know more, we’re here to help with some insight about the security system below. Remember to buy it before March 17 if it sounds like the right setup for you.

Why you should buy the Lorex 2K Wireless NVR System
Sure to be one of the best home security camera systems for many people, the Lorex 2K Wireless NVR System is packed with features. It comes with an easy-to-use network video recorder along with four weather-resistant 2K cameras which are battery-powered and wireless. Any time the cameras notice motion, you’ll get a notification to your smartphone. You can then opt to view the live feed as well as talk to anyone on the other side. Its motion-based detection system does a great job of highlighting things only when there are people rather than objects, cutting down on false alarms.

Read more
This bundle of five Blink Outdoor security cameras is 50% off
The Blink Outdoor Camera 4 mounted on a brick wall.

For the protection of your family and your home, you should think about investing in security camera deals. You can't put a price on your peace of mind, but you could enjoy huge savings with Amazon's offer for five units of the fourth-generation Blink Outdoor. From an original price of $400, you can get the package for just $200, following a 50% discount that translates to $200 in savings. This is exclusive for Amazon Prime members though, so this is a good reason to sign up for it if you're not yet a member, but you need to hurry because the bargain may disappear at any moment.

Why you should buy the Blink Outdoor 4 security camera
The Blink Outdoor is in our roundup of the best home security cameras as the top option to work with Amazon's Alexa, which isn't a surprise as Blink is an Amazon-owned company. You can use voice commands on smart home devices powered by the digital assistant for functions such as engaging live view through the security cameras, and arming or disarming your systems. The latest version of the security camera, the Blink Outdoor 4, introduces Person Detection, which will give you more detailed alerts and identify if a person is captured in the motion zones and not an animal or object. You'll need a Blink subscription to access this feature though.

Read more
How to factory reset a Google Nest Cam (indoor or outdoor)
Closeup of camera on the Google Nest Cam (battery).

One of the most popular security cameras of 2024 is the Google Nest Cam. With a sleek design, reasonable price, and support for both indoor and outdoor use, it’s a versatile camera that works well regardless of where it's installed. However, like all electronics, things don't always work as expected. When this happens, it might be time to perform a factory reset.

Read more