Dome Camera Vs. Bullet Camera: Key Differences

Among the numerous camera types, Dome and Bullet cameras gain approval due to their unique designs and extensive applications. Which one do you choose facing specific needs? This article explores the characteristics, advantages, and suitable environments of these two camera types, helping you make an informed choice.

Appearance

Dome cameras are recognized for their rounded, dome-like shape, which allows them to blend well into their surroundings. Their smooth and non-threatening design makes them less noticeable and reduces the likelihood of tampering or vandalism. They often add a sophisticated touch to video surveillance systems while remaining inconspicuous.  In contrast, bullet cameras have a more elongated, cylindrical form that extends outward from the surface they are mounted on. Their bold design acts as a visible deterrent, often providing a sense of security to onlookers. However, this prominent look also makes them more vulnerable to tampering attempts.

Field of view

Dome cameras generally come equipped with wide-angle lenses that offer the ability for 360-degree rotation. This feature allows them to monitor large areas and provide extensive coverage, making them suitable for sizable indoor spaces like shopping malls, offices, and hotel lobbies. Their full pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) capabilities enable them to deliver panoramic surveillance and effectively minimize blind spots.  Bullet cameras are engineered to focus on specific directions with a narrower yet more precise field of view, making them ideal for long-distance and detailed observational needs. They excel in monitoring outdoor environments such as parking lots, building perimeters, and entry points, where accuracy and distance coverage are crucial.

Camera lens

Dome cameras often offer various lens options, including varifocal and PTZ lenses, allowing for flexible adjustments to accommodate different surveillance requirements. These cameras typically feature high-definition and night vision capabilities, ensuring clear and dependable monitoring at all times.  Bullet cameras are usually fitted with fixed lenses that are optimized for capturing clear images over long distances. They often include powerful infrared (IR) LEDs, which provide excellent night vision, enhancing their functionality in dimly lit or dark outdoor environments.

Suitable environments

Dome cameras, with their subtle design and broad coverage, are particularly effective in indoor settings. They are frequently found in offices, retail spaces, hotels, and educational institutions. Their vandal-resistant construction also makes them suitable for public areas like train stations and airports.  Bullet cameras are mainly used in outdoor settings, where their extended range capabilities and robust design excel. They are perfect for overseeing large outdoor areas such as parking lots, warehouses, industrial sites, and the external sections of buildings. Their durable and weatherproof build ensures consistent performance across various weather conditions. For a detailed understanding of how bullet and dome cameras are employed in different scenarios, including transportation and traffic sectors, please visit our Solutions.

Differences in Installation for Dome and Bullet Cameras

Dome cameras are typically mounted on ceilings or walls, offering flexible installation options. They can be recessed into the ceiling for a seamless appearance or surface-mounted on walls based on both aesthetic and practical considerations. The dome cover shields the lens from dust, dirt, and accidental impacts.

Bullet cameras, characterized by their elongated shape, are usually affixed to poles, walls, or building structures. Their installation necessitates precise aiming and positioning to achieve optimal coverage and field of view. Although they do not have the protective dome cover that dome cameras possess, their sturdy build makes them ideal for outdoor conditions and long-range surveillance.