Table of Contents
Table of Contents
There is no one type of business security camera that can be used in all situations. The best video security setups have multiple different types of cameras deployed where their advantages are best exploited. Here’s what you need to know about dome vs bullet security cameras to best place them in your business.
See how Solink maximizes the security value of your dome and bullet security cameras.
What is a dome security camera?
Dome cameras are cameras covered with a plastic protector. This makes it harder to know which direction they are facing. This makes employees and customers less sure about what is or is not in the camera’s field of view. Furthermore, their shape and the dome protection make them more resistant to vandalism.
However, this dome can reflect IR lights, making dome cameras less effective at night.
Dome security camera pros and cons
As with all security cameras, dome cameras have specific benefits and deficiencies that make them ideal for some settings but less suitable for others.
Dome security camera advantages
Here are the main advantages of dome cameras:
- Plastic covering hides which direction the camera is facing.
- The dome makes these cameras highly resistant to vandalism and damage.
Built-in storage capability.
Dome security camera disadvantages
Here are the main disadvantages of dome cameras:
- Sometimes water droplets can cause blurring.
- IR light can bounce off the dome, causing blindspots at night.
What is a bullet security camera?
Bullet cameras are a common type of business security camera. Their name derives from their compact and distinct shape. Bullet cameras have the prototypical look of a camera, so are easily recognized as such.
Due to their small size and easy installation process, these cameras offer versatility. For example, they can be used in both indoor and outdoor settings. However, their design renders them more vulnerable to vandalism compared to dome cameras.
Some bullet cameras come equipped with varifocal lenses, allowing users to change the camera’s field of view while preserving picture quality. However, these adjustments must be made manually on the camera itself.
Bullet security camera pros and cons
Bullet security cameras have specific strengths and weaknesses that must be considered before utilizing them in your business.
Bullet security camera advantages
Here are the main advantages of bullet cameras:
- Varifocal lens adds flexibility to the installation location.
- The typical camera shape can improve the deterrence value.
- Can be used indoors or outdoors.
- Low cost and easy to install.
Bullet security camera disadvantages
Here are the main disadvantages of bullet cameras:
- Unable to change the angle of view, making it clearer what is or is not in view.
- Hard to reposition left–right and up–down without reinstallation.
- The shape allows birds to build nests above them, potentially shortening their useful life.
- No protection from vandalism.
Which is better to use - a dome vs bullet security camera?
When comparing different types of camera, there is no better or worse. There’s simply more or less effective cameras for a specific use case. In fact, most businesses will deploy both bullet and dome security cameras.
Where should I use dome vs bullet security cameras?
Use dome cameras in indoor spaces like retail stores, restaurants, offices, and hotel lobbies where a discreet yet wide-angle view is needed. They’re ideal for monitoring entrances, hallways, and reception areas without drawing too much attention. Their vandal-resistant design makes them perfect for high-traffic areas like schools, hospitals, and public buildings where tampering is a concern. Dome cameras also work well in low-light conditions, making them a great choice for dimly lit spaces like storage rooms or parking garages.
Where should I use bullet vs dome security cameras?
Bullet cameras are best for outdoor areas and long-range monitoring, making them ideal for securing building perimeters, parking lots, loading docks, and alleyways. Their visible design acts as a strong deterrent, discouraging unwanted activity before it happens. Mounted on walls or poles, they provide clear, directional coverage for entrances, driveways, and fenced-off areas. Weather-resistant housing protects them from rain, dust, and extreme temperatures, ensuring reliable performance in tough conditions. With their ability to capture detailed footage over long distances, bullet cameras are perfect for monitoring key access points, remote areas, and any location requiring focused monitoring.
- Building perimeters
- Parking lots
- Loading docks
- Alleyways
- Walls and poles
- Entrances
- Driveways
- Fenced-off areas
- Remote areas
- Key access points
Solink can source, install, and monitor all of your dome and bullet security cameras
Solink takes the hassle out of security by sourcing, installing, and monitoring all your dome and bullet cameras. Whether you need wide-angle indoor coverage or long-range outdoor protection, Solink provides the right cameras for your business. Expert installation ensures optimal placement, while continuous monitoring helps detect and address security threats in real time. With seamless integration into your existing systems, Solink delivers a smarter, more efficient way to protect your business.
If you are looking to install or upgrade your security cameras and video monitoring, sign up for a demo today.
Timothy Ware | 
Solink stands at the forefront of security solutions, excelling in loss prevention and asset protection for businesses. Our content is rich in industry expertise and crafted to provide actionable insights and innovative strategies. We empower businesses to enhance their security systems, optimize operations, and protect their assets more effectively. Discover how our advanced cloud video management system can transform your security approach.
