Bullet CCTV Cameras

Bullet CCTV cameras are the most recognisable CCTV style, and that's their biggest strength. Their size and shape make it obvious the property is covered, so they work well as a visible deterrent on driveways, entrance gates, car parks and perimeters. Most have a built-in hood over the lens, which helps cut glare from low sun and keeps rain off the front of the camera.

A common belief is that bullets see further than other styles, but the shape itself makes no difference. How far a camera can see comes down to its lens and night vision. Some larger bullets do pack stronger infrared and longer lenses, so check the night vision range and lens size on the product page rather than going by the style.

The trade-off is that bullets are more noticeable, which isn't always what you want on the front of a home. Spiders also like the warmth of the IR lights and the shelter under the hood, so an occasional wipe keeps cobwebs from setting off motion alerts at night. If you'd rather have something more discreet, a turret is usually the better choice.

Choosing the right bullet camera

Match the format. Adding to a DVR system? You'll need HD-TVI analogue bullets. Adding to an NVR, or after a single camera that works on its own, go for IP PoE.

Think about distance. A wide 2.8mm lens covers a large area close to the camera. If you need to identify someone at a gate or the far end of a drive, a 4mm or 6mm lens, or a varifocal model you can zoom in after fitting, will give you far more useful detail.

Choose your night vision. Standard IR gives black and white footage in total darkness. ColorVu keeps footage in colour at night, and Smart Hybrid Light switches to colour with a white light when it spots a person, which adds to the deterrent effect.

Not sure where to position your cameras? Our CCTV buyers guide covers camera placement in detail.

Many of our bullet cameras come in varifocal versions, which let you adjust the zoom after fitting. Manual varifocal models are set by hand at the camera, so you get it right once during the install. Motorised zoom models can be adjusted from the app or recorder, which is a big help if the camera is high up or you want to fine-tune the view later without getting the ladder out.

Like most cameras, bullets have a fly lead with the connectors on the end. If you're mounting under the eaves you can usually feed it straight through into the loft. On a brick wall, a junction box saves drilling a large hole and keeps the connections out of the weather.

Planning a whole new system? A matched kit is usually the simplest and best value route. Browse our IP CCTV systems or HD over Coax systems, or use Find My System to narrow it down.