How Many Security Cameras Do I Need?
Answer a few quick questions and see how many cameras your property needs, where each one goes, and what size recorder to get.
Where cameras go
| Spot | Why |
|---|---|
| Every outside door | Most break-ins and package thefts happen at doors. Put the camera close, about 8 to 10 feet, so it can identify faces. |
| Driveway and parking | Shows cars and people arriving. A 180° panoramic camera covers a small lot on its own. |
| Sides and back yard | Catches people walking around the building to a back window or door. |
| Gate or garage | A choke point every visitor passes, ideal for one sharp camera. |
| Inside | Main hallway, stairs, stock room, cash area: places every intruder or customer must cross. |
Typical numbers
- Townhouse or small house: 3 to 5 cameras
- Larger house with a yard: 6 to 10 cameras
- Shop or restaurant: 6 to 12 cameras
- Office: 6 to 16 cameras
- Warehouse: 12 to 40 cameras
Questions
Is it better to have more cameras or better cameras?
Cover every door and path first, then improve quality where it matters. One sharp camera at the front door is worth more than three blurry ones across the yard.
Can one camera cover a whole yard?
A 180° panoramic camera can cover a small yard or parking lot. For faces, put a second camera close to the door.
What size recorder do I need?
Get a recorder with a few more channels than cameras, so you can add more later. The answer above suggests one, and the storage calculator sizes the hard drive.