There are a wide range of different surveillance cameras which can be incorporated into a CCTV security system. These cameras come in many shapes and forms all with their own specific features and accessories, so the discerning buyer should be aware of what his/her specific needs are before embarking on the purchase a certain set of CCTV cameras. This is because the price varies quite drastically between the different kinds of cameras starting from R500 and can reach up to R30 000.
The reason for the huge price variance is of course due to the fact that there are so many different types of CCTV surveillance cameras out there. Your analog cameras are usually cheaper with the added benefit of being highly compatible with other elements in your CCTV security system, elements like your DVR and local monitor. They are also highly compatible with equipment from different manufacturers. The IP surveillance cameras are more expensive, but while this is the case these cameras do come with the benefit of being easier to install (and this is because there aren’t as many connecting cables which link your cameras to your DVR, PC or monitor), and they allow the user to view camera footage over the internet. Some of these cameras even come in wireless form, and they are also powered by batteries, making these cameras are entirely wireless. This comes at a price however, and these cameras can cost up to R3 000. Usually, however, IP cameras are powered through their ethernet cable, so while these cameras aren’t wireless, they do make for an affordable purchase since they are digital and have the capability of broadcasting their footage over the internet.
CCTV camera prices are becoming lower. This is because there are more and more CCTV camera manufacturers, and with more competition comes lower prices. Also, the technology used in more modern CCTV cameras is becoming cheaper as well. So, CCTV cameras are slowly becoming more affordable while at the same time, their functionality is improving.
