PTZ outdoor cameras are pan tilt and zoom models that are designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor weather. These models can withstand wind, rain, snow and sun exposure without impacting the quality of the camera or its picture.
If you plan to film outside or even live stream outdoor events, you need the best PTZ outdoor camera for high-quality images and video.
Benefits of PTZ 4K cameras for outdoor use
If you need an outdoor camera, a PTZ is one of your best options. You’ll find that professional sporting and entertainment crews use PTZ cameras because of their versatile features. For example, you’ll benefit from:
- Pan options to pan the camera for a better shot
- Tilt features to make adjustments effortless
- Zoom options to capture all of the action up close
You’ll also find plenty of options that provide you with 4K picture quality, real-time streaming and compression options to make streaming live events easier.
Plus, you can add these cameras into your setup without worrying about conflicting equipment or other hiccups along the way.
What to consider when using and buying an outdoor PTZ camera
If you want to purchase a PTZ outdoor camera, you must consider the following points:
- Resolution: High-definition cameras are the lowest resolution that we would recommend, and if you plan on live streaming, a PTZ 4K is the best choice for clarity and quality.
- Zoom: Varying zoom levels are available, and options include as low as 4X but up to 20X or higher. Higher zoom may be an important decision for you if using the camera for sports or security. Zoom options allow you to zoom in on objects, faces or players, so that you can show viewers a soccer ball zooming past the goalie or focus on a security risk’s face to identify the person.
- Lens Options: Does the camera have a wide-angle lens? If not, you’ll need the right controller to capture larger spaces and landscapes. Wide-angle lenses help provide greater overall coverage. Additionally, look at the F stop of the camera. Lower numbers mean the camera is better for live-action, with a good starting point being f/1.8.
- Mounting: What mounting system comes with the unit? Outdoor cameras need stronger, better mounting solutions to withstand wind gusts.
- Tilt Degree: Tilting the camera allows you to setup shots better and take more accurate images and video. Tilt rotation of up to 90 degrees up and 30 degrees down is a good starting point for tilt.
- Wired or Wireless: A wireless camera may be sufficient for home security, but a wired PTZ outdoor camera is the optimal solution for outdoor use. Wired cameras guarantee a high level of quality and consistency.
You’ll also want to consider where you’re going to place your outdoor camera so that you have the greatest level of versatility.
Recommendations for installing PTZ outdoor cameras
First and foremost, when installing an outdoor camera, it’s crucial to wire the unit into the electrical system. Wireless options may exist, but these solutions are not ideal for commercial or professional usage.
Next, you’ll need to consider the following:
- Camera lens options. If the camera has a wide-angle lens, you can place it back from the subject, such as on the wall or above a tennis court, because the wide-angle will allow you to capture a large portion of the terrain.
- Cameras should be as close to your base station as possible to reduce the amount of cables and wiring needed.
- If you plan to use the camera for security, you want it to be installed 7 to 8 feet high, but with zoom options, you can go even further if you like.
Also, you must consider the mounting solution. If you live in an area with high wind gusts or severe weather, you may want to mount the camera to a concrete or permanent surface. On an added note, also be sure that the camera has enough light for a clear, crisp image but also avoid sun glares that can negatively affect the image quality.
If you need an outdoor camera for security or live events, a PTZ camera is one solution that offers the best value for the price.
