Bullet vs. Dome Cameras: Weighing the Benefits for Your Home & Office

Editor’s Note: This blog post was originally published in December 2019 and has been revised to reflect industry updates.

Security cameras provide real-time smart viewing, peace of mind, and protection for your loved ones, home, and place of business. Two popular styles are bullet and dome, each with unique features and advantages for commercial and residential properties.

When weighing options, it’s important to consider your security goals. Whether safeguarding your home or office—or both—determining the best camera type for each includes factors such as smart integrations, installation, placement, and more.

The following is a useful comparison between these two models, analyzing special characteristics, capabilities, and costs, along with several helpful best practices.

Bullet Cameras

Named for its long, tube-like design, the bullet camera is appropriate for indoor or outdoor installation. This style is popular for both homes and businesses, because its shape serves as a prominent intruder deterrent. 

A 2012 survey of 422 incarcerated burglars conducted by the University of North Carolina reported 83 percent of respondents would assess whether any security system was present prior to committing a crime. Approximately 60 percent said that if so, it would make them choose another target.

Dome Cameras

Standard dome cameras are designed to provide similar coverage and analytics as the bullet model. Sleek and circular, they’re frequently utilized for indoor, residential environments. They can also be used within commercial interiors, such as retail shops, hotel lobbies, restaurants, or offices.

One such model, known as a vandal-proof dome camera, features an enclosure or tinted glass cover. This discreet design inconspicuously blends in with the general décor of its surroundings, for covert surveillance.

Bullet vs. Dome Camera Differences

Bullet cameras are known for their long-range views—ideal for protecting residential homes, or safeguarding commercial buildings and parking areas. An article citing the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) on telecommunications news hub Cox Business states prominently placed cameras can minimize thefts, vandalism, and other unfortunate incidents within commercial areas.  

The bullet camera’s suitability for indoor/outdoor usage and night movement detection make it an attractive solution for off-site business owners or homeowners. Some of these cameras also include internal heaters and fans, furthering usage in harsh environments and extreme temperatures.

Vandal-proof dome cameras are typically affixed in a stationary spot where expensive theft and/or damage might occur—for example, in an outdoor, commercial setting. Its reinforced design enables it to withoutstand direct blows without disrupting its feed. Such models also feature 360-degree visibility. Its strength and durability saves money, too. The aforementioned Cox Business article cites the SBA’s finding of just one incident of vandalism costing an average of $3,370.

Whether safeguarding your home or office—or both—determining the best camera type for each includes factors such as smart integrations, installation, placement, and more.

Alarm.com Smart 
Remote Viewing

It’s important to work with a security company integrating smart remote viewing from anywhere, via the Alarm.com mobile app. Such tech features archived recordings and images, for added protection.

Adding video analytics software, motion detection and accompanying visual notifications saves valuable time when searching and reviewing recorded footage. Both help home and business owners stay abreast of any activity while minimizing false alarms.

Security Camera Installation Best Practices

It’s important to enlist regional security providers with local presence for the best installation practices in your particular area. They can also help troubleshoot do-it-yourself (DIY) projects.

An experienced security provider can answer such questions as:

• Where are the best places to affix a security camera?
• How much maintenance will my camera(s) need?
• Should I test my camera in a specific area before permanent installation?

Why it Makes Sense to Invest in Security Cameras 

In weighing the aforementioned comparison, note that installation assistance, subsequent monitoring, and associated services, are also available. It’s also always beneficial to work with a trusted provider, such as General Security, for best results.

General Security provides reliable, effective security systems to help protect your family, home, and place of business. Request a free quote from us today!