Bullets vs dome cameras: which is the best option for you?

The main differences between dome and bullet cameras

Dome and bullet cameras differ in both appearance and functionality. Dome cameras sit inside enclosed, dome-shaped cases that help them blend into their surroundings, while bullet cameras have long, cylindrical cases that make them instantly recognizable as cameras.

Dome cameras typically have a wider field of view but a shorter optimal range, making them ideal for observing large, open spaces with a single camera. In contrast, bullet cameras have a narrower field of view but a longer optimal range, making them well-suited for covering areas like access roads, building perimeters and other expansive spaces that require high-quality, long-range coverage.

Key differences between dome and bullet cameras

For a side-by-side view, here’s how dome and bullet cameras stack up across key features:

Design 

Bullet cameras have a familiar cylindrical shape. They are immediately recognizable and their visibility can deter criminals. 

Dome cameras incorporate a CCTV camera inside a clear enclosure shaped like a dome. They are more discreet than bullet cameras, which makes them less of an obvious deterrent. These cameras can easily blend with the architecture of a space, which balances security with appearance. 

Both cameras offer infrared night-vision capability. However, dome cameras can suffer from ​‘bounceback’ which reduces their low-light effectiveness, compared to bullet cameras.

Viewing angle 

Bullet cameras can provide effective coverage of both close and distant objects. They can provide detailed images of distant objects, such as vehicle number plates.

Whereas, dome cameras incorporate wide-angle lenses. They can cover wide areas with a single camera, reducing equipment costs. This can be beneficial for applications like retail, warehouse and gas station surveillance. 

Use cases

Bullet cameras are advantageous in their long-range capability making them suitable for monitoring building perimeters or large outdoor areas, such as car parks or access roads. They can also be used to monitor residential yards and driveways or the perimeters of apartment blocks or gated properties. 

On the other hand,the wider range of dome cameras makes them suitable for monitoring building access areas or the interiors of residential buildings and commercial properties, such as retail outlets, offices or hotel lobbies.

If the aim is to deter criminals with visible security, bullet cameras are the best choice. Conversely, dome cameras are more discreet and keep the security measures less obvious, making them perfect for high-traffic spaces like lobbies or shopping malls. 

In more confined, high-risk areas, a bullet camera will serve the purpose well by providing detailed images of any suspicious activities. 

Installation 

Bullet cameras can be installed on walls or ceilings via an adjustable bracket. Dome cameras, on the other hand, can also be installed on walls or ceilings, however, they are fixed directly to the surface. Dome cameras can be installed in a recess to make them more discreet or to improve appearance. 

Moving a domed camera to a new position to improve coverage is more time-consuming than moving a bullet camera. If the dome camera has been mounted in a recess, moving it can also create additional remedial work to restore the original surface. 

Environment 

Both types of camera can be used for indoor or outdoor applications. However, if security cameras are prone to harsh weather conditions or vandalism, the enclosure of a dome camera provides greater protection. 

The enclosure of a dome camera also makes it difficult for criminals to change camera angles or interfere with coverage in other ways, whereas bullet cameras are easier to manipulate. 

Costs 

The initial equipment costs of both cameras depend on the level of features. The cameras can be fitted with different types of lenses, for example, or may have additional capabilities, such as night vision.

The infrastructure costs for both bullet or dome cameras are similar. Both require a power supply as well as wired or wireless connectivity to recording devices.

Installation costs are generally lower for bullet cameras. Mountings are simple compared to dome cameras, particularly when a recessed fitting is required.

Maintenance costs vary with camera location and environmental conditions. Regular maintenance is essential to ensure reliable operation and image quality. The covers of dome cameras need to be cleaned to maintain image clarity, particularly with outdoor applications. Bullet cameras require regular lens cleaning.

What are dome cameras?

Dome security cameras are security devices housed inside clear, dome-shaped casings designed to help conceal their direction, deter intrudes and resist vandalism. 

Dome cameras are used to capture wide-angle footage at short range and can be installed indoors or outdoors. Many models include infrared and night vision capabilities for 24/7 operation. However, their effectiveness can be impacted by infrared bounce-back from the dome.

What are bullet cameras?

Bullet security cameras are security devices housed in recognizable, bullet-shaped casings designed to deter crime by making the presence of CCTV systems obvious to intruders.

These cameras are used to capture high-quality footage at long range, though they have a narrow field of view. Bullet cameras can be installed indoors or outdoors and feature adjustable brackets for easy repositioning. However, they may be vulnerable to vandalism if installed within reach of intruders.

Dome vs bullet cameras: Which is the better option?

Both bullet cameras and dome cameras have advantages and disadvantages compared with each other. There is no single type of camera for every security scenario. It may be that you need both types of camera for different applications inside or outside your property. 

To identify the type of camera that meets your specific requirements, you should carry out a comprehensive physical security assessment. The assessment should take account of the use cases, environmental considerations and installation requirements for different areas of your property. 

Cost will also be an important factor, but you should balance the cost of these IP security cameras against the risks and consequential costs of criminal activity. 

You should also take expert advice from a commercial security camera installer or integrator before finalizing your decision.