Surveillance Cameras vs. Security Cameras: Features, Uses, and Which One to Buy

In today’s world, ensuring safety for your home, office, or business is more important than ever. Thanks to modern technology, we now have a range of tools to help us monitor and protect our environments — two of the most common being security cameras and surveillance cameras.

While these terms are often used interchangeably, they aren't exactly the same. Understanding the key differences between security and surveillance cameras can help you make a more informed decision about which type of system is right for your needs.

What Is a Security Camera?

A security camera is typically used to deter crime or monitor a specific area in real-time. These are often part of a broader security system that may include alarms, motion detectors, access control, and live alerts.

Key Features:

 • Usually connected to an alarm system.

 • Used for real-time monitoring.

 • Sends alerts or notifications when activity is detected.

 • Ideal for home security, offices, retail shops, and entrances.

 • Can include features like motion detection, night vision, audio recording, and remote viewing.

Pros:

 • Immediate alerts if something suspicious happens.

 • Integration with mobile apps and home automation systems.

 • Often visible (which can deter criminals).

Cons:

 • Limited coverage; designed to monitor specific points.

 • May require constant monitoring or response to alerts.

What Is a Surveillance Camera?

A surveillance camera, on the other hand, is designed more for continuous observation and recording. These are commonly found in public spaces, such as malls, streets, parking lots, and government buildings. Their primary purpose is to record footage for review if an incident occurs.

Key Features:

 • Designed for constant recording and long-term storage.

 • Often used in larger systems with centralized control.

 • Typically monitored by security personnel or reviewed later.

 • More likely to be part of CCTV systems.

Pros:

 • Provides long-term video evidence.

 • Excellent for monitoring large areas over time.

 • Not always obvious, which can help in covert operations.

Cons:

 • Doesn’t always alert in real-time.

 • Footage is often only reviewed after an incident.

 • May not integrate with smart home systems.

Key Differences at a Glance

Feature	Security Cameras	Surveillance Cameras
Purpose	Prevent and respond to crime	Monitor and record events
Monitoring Type	Real-time, event-based	Continuous, long-term
Location	Homes, offices, small businesses	Public areas, large facilities
Integration	Smart home, mobile apps	Central monitoring systems
Visibility	Typically visible	Can be covert or hidden
Response	Instant alerts	Review footage later

 

Which One Do You Need?

The choice between a security camera and a surveillance camera depends largely on your goals and environment.

Choose Security Cameras if:

 • You want real-time alerts on your phone.

 • You need to monitor entry points like doors and driveways.

 • You're protecting a small business, home, or apartment.

 • You want two-way audio, mobile integration, or motion detection.

Choose Surveillance Cameras if:

 • You need 24/7 recording across large areas.

 • You're responsible for monitoring parking lots, warehouses, public buildings, or campuses.

 • You have or plan to set up a CCTV system.

 • You want centralized control and storage for multiple cameras.

Can You Use Both?

Absolutely. Many businesses and larger homes use both types of cameras to create a layered security approach. For example, a homeowner might install visible security cameras at entry points and use surveillance-style hidden cameras indoors for added coverage.

Final Thoughts

The line between security and surveillance cameras is becoming more blurred as technology advances. Many modern systems combine features of both — offering 24/7 recording and real-time alerts with smart integration. However, understanding the core differences can help you choose a system that truly fits your needs.

Whether you're aiming to deter crime in real-time or gather evidence for future review, selecting the right type of camera is key to building a strong security infrastructure.

Need help choosing the right camera system for your space? Connect with us through our website and we will be more than happy to help you out.