I remember when the need to use CCTV cameras for night vision first came up. We had just welcomed our second child, so my wife was very concerned about neighbourhood safety. I also had to spend more time around the house and had no one to watch over my workshop downtown. So, I figured fixing up night vision cameras at both sites will give us a certain level of calm.
But looking through so many websites and magazines gave me a massive headache. 🙁 There were just, so many factors to consider; resolution, weatherproof, storage, power source, even waterproof. I felt like I was in over my head on this one. And as I would later discover, even companies and businesses meet the same feeling.
Table of Contents
Amazon Best Sellers 2020
Here are Amazon bestsellers before you go and read my full list.
![Tapo Mini Smart Security Camera, Indoor CCTV, Works with Alexa&Google Home, No Hub Required, 1080p, 2-Way Audio, Night Vision, SD Storage, Device Sharing (TC60) [Amazon Exclusive]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41A7A70xjgL.jpg)
![[8CH, Expandable] SANSCO 5MP CCTV Surveillance Camera System, 8 Channel DVR with 4x 2MP Security Cameras, 1TB Hard Drive for 24/7 Recording (1920x1080, Weatherproof, Night Vision, Easy Mobile View)](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41vj3GsF4IL.jpg)
Of course, it took a lot of work, research and consultation with lots of experts before I could get it done. The experience was interesting, so I delved further into the subject. I read up more on the various features and made more enquiries from professionals. I also had numerous chats with fellow users to learn more about the reasons behind their preferences. And at the end of the exercise, I knew more about CCTV cameras that before I even set up mine.
Today, I use this knowledge to update surveillance security around my home regularly. Remembering what I went through concerning the subject in my early years, I decided to compile a review and buying guide. Consider it my token of assistance to every concerned, yet confused user who simply wishes to install CCTV surveillance around his environs.
In the review, I listed some of the top CCTV cameras best for night vision surveillance and stating their unique features. I also included a product guide that shows you the specific factors to look out for before selecting a gadget. Apply these two important tools, and selecting the best CCTV camera for night vision becomes a task as simple as flipping a coin.
Top 10 CCTV Cameras For Night Vision UK
1. Blink XT2 Night Vision CCTV from Amazon (2nd Gen)
High-tech gadgets have always attracted me, so when I came across this CCTV camera for night vision, I could not help being fascinated. The performance and durability are so impressive. I had to make it my number one pick on my review list.
Total surveillance and security are guaranteed with this astonishing security camera. And, since anything that connects with my smart hub easily appeals to me, this gadget won my heart completely. I also love the overall portable and futuristic design, as it blends with the aesthetics of my building. And I used it for both indoor and outdoor coverage of my entire surroundings- the latter because of its excellent waterproof.
It was very easy to set up around my home and is fully compatible with Alexa. I could watch over my property easily through its high-quality live stream feed. Even my kids love the pranks I played on them through the clear two-way audio feature!
Features
- 1080p HD video with 110 FOV
- Customisable motion detection with infrared HD night vision
- Two-way audio feature
- 2-year battery life
- Cloud storage
2. Arlo Night Vision HD Smart Home Security
When I first delved into the mission of building a CCTV night vision camera security system, Arlo was the brand I first saw. Everyone kept talking about how great their gadgets and cameras were. And they were right because their devices are state-of-the-art.
The design is super portable so that I could fix the cameras anywhere I wanted. I used them for my store and was astounded by the performance quality. And the video footage is insanely detailed- even for a 720p resolution device. I found the mobile app interesting, as it came with so many features to explore. It felt more like a new toy than a security device.
Adding multiple cameras to my security system was a breeze with this device, as the settings were very comprehensive. And though I feared its durability, due to its beautiful, yet fragile-looking build, I felt easier as it came with wall-mounting options.
Features
- 720p video quality, with 110 degrees FOV
- Motion detection with black and white night vision
- Six months of battery life
- IP65 waterproof
- Cloud storage
3. Neos Night Vision Smart Camera
I decided to test this brand when my previous Arlo-based home system needed an upgrade. I was itching to try out something else. I wanted to rekindle that feeling I first got when I began this quest if discovery; a feeling, I noticed, usually boosted by the joy of experiencing a new gadget.
Well, I got my wish. The performance level of this CCTV camera was stellar, especially for night vision. I like to think the quality I enjoyed from this device strengthened my conviction that there are more great CCTV camera brands out there. The operation was very easy, efficient and cost-friendly.
I was also fascinated by the build. For some reason, the box-shaped design gave me this feeling of guarantee in its durability.
Read More: Best Spy Camera for Nursing Home
Features
- 1080p Full HD, with 110 degrees FOV
- Live stream & 8X digital zoom
- Motion and noise detection with infrared night vision
- Two-way Audio
- Card and Cloud storage
4. Arlo Ultra Smart Home Security UK Night Vision CCTV Camera System
I never bother about spending a lot on great tech, especially when it promises enticing features and the highest of quality. In my earlier times analysing CCTV night vision cameras, paying more always seemed to pay off, in regards to quality. This system reminds me of those times.
My biggest excitement came from the colour night vision. The footage was so crisp, clear and incredibly detailed. It was like staring through a well-made see-through mirror! Of course, such is expected from a 4K resolution device.
This CCTV camera for night vision is outstanding in both performance and design. I was astounded by the AI features and surveillance quality. And I loved the fact that I could alternate between using it indoors or outdoors.
Features
- 4K and HDR resolution, with 180 degrees FOV
- Motion detection with integrated spotlight
- Colour night vision with auto zoom
- Works with Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple Home kit
- Card and Cloud storage
5. SV3C UK CCTV Wireless Night Vision Wi-Fi Outdoor Camera
For outdoor use, resilience and tough build must be factored in alongside alert features, range and footage quality. This is because your CCTV camera for night vision needs to withstand the elements of the outdoors and still provide great performance. So, I give this model thumbs up for following those rules.
Not a lot of people buy into relying on Wi-Fi-based CCTV cameras for night vision and outdoor over-watch. Well, those people never had this device. The build is hardy and very durable, so you feel confident about its longevity. And the Wi-Fi transmission is strong and stable; a big thumbs up for an outdoor device.
The brand was rather considerate when designing this model, as they included a very handy video compression capacity. The details remain intact, without taking excessive storage space. And I was very grateful for its high-quality waterproof rating.
Features
- 960p HD, with up to 90-degree FOV
- Motion sensors, with IR LED night vision
- Supports both WPA and WPA2 Wi-Fi encryption
- IP66 waterproof
- Card storage
6. TP-Link Tapo UK CCTV Night Vision Mini Smart Security Camera
Setting up CCTV cameras for night vision indoors can be a challenge sometimes. The positioning, most especially, can be challenging. I had issues picking the perfect spot to mount my devices, without giving away their location. After that, the next problem came with picking the right camera size.
Fortunately, this CCTV camera came to my rescue. I love the portable size and wireless feature. The setup is hassle-free, and it worked perfectly, with no need for any smart hub. And as small as it is, I was impressed by how much it could do.
I connected it to my Alexa, and everything else just went smoothly from there. The surveillance capacity of this device is astonishing. And I love how very customisable the features are.
Features
- 1080p FHD resolution, with night vision up to 30ft.
- Customisable motion detection and activity zones
- Two-way Audio
- Works with Wi-Fi router
- Card storage
7. Reolink Argus Pro Night Vision UK Solar Outdoor Security Camera
I have heard lots of great comments about self-charging CCTV night vision cameras, so I decided to give them a try. I also wanted to test out the efficiency of solar-powered batteries in surveillance devices. If solar-powered CCTV cameras did not initially convince me, this one did it for me.
Without the solar panel, I had to recharge the battery almost monthly. With it, I virtually never need to! The camera practically kept itself alive without any interference from me whatsoever. And the Wi-Fi signal is incredibly strong. It was such a convenience!
You might feel discouraged upon hearing a solar panel has to be installed, but I assure you not to be. It was very easy to mount, and once done, the setup is done in minutes. It does come with the option of recharging the batteries with an adapter yourself. But overall, I loved the innovative performance and design.
Features
- Full HD 1080p, with 33ft night vision
- PIR motion detection sensors
- Self-sufficient, solar-charged battery
- Two-way audio
- Card storage
8. EZVIZ UK Night Vision Smart Security Outdoor Camera
For as long as I can remember, I have always been impressed with outdoor CCTV cameras for night vision. The sheer power they pack in their relatively normal builds is nothing short of stunning. And this device is one of the best ones.
The first thing that caught me by surprise is its ability to depict between my pre-teen daughter and our Yorkie easily. I checked this by testing out its Person Detection feature by allowing our dog to run past a detection zone. The alarms didn’t go off, but when my kid walked past, it went screaming.
The night vision displays in colour and is vividly clear. And it toggles to black and white when you turn off the spotlight. I could also connect the CCTV camera to my Alexa, and control it by voice command.
Features
- 1080p FHD, with 125 degrees FOV
- Customisable, AI-powered Person and Smart Detection
- Colour night vision option up to 100ft
- Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity
- Cloud and Card storage
9. Imou Outdoor UK Wi-Fi Security Camera 62.99
When I came across this CCTV camera, two things crossed my mind; efficiency and comfort. I could hardly believe an outdoor night vision CCTV camera of its grade would offer as much as it did. An expert I spoke with installed this in his home and just would not shut up about it.
This device is precise, smart and very proactive. Its motion detection levels are incredible. I never even had to install a light source next to it to get a clear image. Still, the night vision came out clean, detailed and very distinguishable!
The CCTV night vision camera also withstood a heavy downpour, so the waterproof rating is very legit. To make it more inconspicuous, I fixed it very close to a panel above the garage door, then run the wire into the shed. And it blended easily with the whitewash.
Features
- 1080 FHD, with night vision up to 33ft
- 110 FOV with PIR motion detection and LED spotlight
- Card and cloud storage
- Two-way audio
- IP65 waterproof
10. ANNKE 900TVL Add-on Dome CCTV Camera 14.69
Whenever I think about security surveillance devices and CCTV cameras, the dome designs are the first that come to mind. This type was one of the first I tried out for my workshop. And the first thing I liked was that it blended with the serious surrounding.
The range and resolution combine to give it so much detail-capturing power. I finally realised why it was so popular with people. Even in complete darkness, the infrared kicks in and captures clear footage. Now, I consider it my go-to gadget for office security.
It also comes with an impressive weatherproof rating, and I had no issues with installing it outside. Though it is AC powered, installing it was pretty simple for me. All it took was my basic skill in screw-driving and enthusiasm to try out a new CCTV camera.
Features
- 900TVL resolution
- Infrared night vision with you to 100ft clarity
- IR illumination LEDs
- IP66 weatherproof rating
- 24/7 surveillance
CCTV Cameras For Night Vision UK Product Guide
With so many brands displaying tons of attractive features, picking the best CCTV camera for night vision can be frustrating. This is normal, of course, as you simply wish to get great value for money, while still meeting your precise needs. This is why I have composed this product guide so you can study the numerous features closely, and understand the best combinations that fit you.
Footage Quality
The whole point of setting up CCTV cameras for night vision is to get a good look at any intruder on your property. So, your video footage must be of the highest quality, and this rests on its resolution, range and two-way audio features.
Most CCTV cameras for night vision come with very high resolutions, ranging from 1080p (HD) to 4000p, or 4K (ultra HD). Higher resolutions, like 4K, usually establish a finer, clearer footage than 1080p, though at the price of heavy data size. The range or field of view (FOV) determines how much coverage your gadget has. Most CCTV cameras for night vision offer 360 degrees FOV, but look out for such when purchasing, just to be sure.
I also insist on your CCTV camera for night vision comes with two-way audio for back-and-forth audio transmission. It gives you the added advantage of hearing intruder’s conversation and sounding off a serious warning, Big Brother-style.
Motion Detection
The primary reason for setting up CCTV cameras for night vision is to detect intrusion of your property, for security, right? But no alerts mean you always have to check the footage for any signs constantly. And not only is that impractical, but also negates the original objective of installing surveillance in the first place.
So, look for motion detection features, as these scan for movement, and alert you instantly at the hint of any. There are two types; one detects changes in pixels between successive frames, while the other detects changes in infrared levels, caused by body heat.
There is a drawback though, if not properly set up. You could end up with tons of annoying false alarms, perhaps from the family dog, or your teenager is sneaking out to a party. What I do is set up motion detection zones around the building. This way, everyone knows where to avoid, and if the alarm is triggered, we are sure of a trespass.
Monitoring
There are two ways CCTV cameras with night vision can be monitored; by yourself, or by a professional. You can choose a brand that comes with a security system for your home, and monitor activities in the footage by yourself. Or you can pay for a professional monitoring service to do the job for you.
This may be done on a stationary base in the house, or through compatible apps on your mobile phone. I prefer the latter, as I can monitor alerts and even issue a two-way talk from my phone. This feature is enhanced if you run a smart home with systems like Cortana, Alexa, or even Google Assistant. Be sure though to check for the compatibility with monitoring apps and smart home systems.
Storage Type
Night vision CCTV cameras can store footage in two ways; an internal card, and external cloud storage. A card system stores footage in a memory card that is pre-inserted into the camera. The size of the SD card determines how much data it can hold, and how frequently the motion sensors are triggered. Most times, data stored is kept for 7-10 days, and overwritten on a chronological order.
A cloud system, however, encrypts the footage and uploads it to an external virtual storage source on the internet. The data is always available to you anytime, and you just need to access the network to get it. Cloud storages usually offer larger storage space and protect data from physical loss, even if the camera is damaged. But it can be hacked if you are careless with your account details.
Also, since high-quality footage is larger, they fill up internal storage spaces quicker, especially if the camera records continuously. I found that to be very costly with cloud storage, especially since I relied on its larger capacity. Eventually, I went for motion detection cameras, so the footage is only captured when the camera is triggered. That way, I could efficiently use space in both types of storages.
Power Source
CCTV cameras for night vision may be wired or wireless, regarding power source. The wired brands are connected to an external power outlet or sometimes integrated with the power grid of the building. The wireless brands are usually battery-powered, and rechargeable, with some models offering self-sufficiency via solar panels.
Waterproof & Weatherproof
If you plan to install your CCTV surveillance outdoors, this is one factor you must consider. The camera would be exposed to rain, snow, dust, wind and other elements of weather and the environment. The waterproof rating determines how resistant the camera is to water intrusion, while the weatherproof rating shows how much it can withstand elements of the environment.
FAQs
Can a night vision CCTV camera seethrough glass?
Yes, it can. However, some glass bounces the IR back into the lens, creating a blurry image.
How far can a CCTV camera see at night?
The average distance is 155 meters. However, certain factors determine if this would be more or less in the device you purchase, e.g., the number of LEDs, camera quality, and strength of the IR sensors.
Which is better; wired or wireless?
It depends on your preference. Wired CCTV cameras are more reliable and can support a larger system. But they take longer to install and are vulnerable to power outages. Wireless CCTV camera, however, is easy to install DIY-style, and their locations can be easily managed. The drawback is their signals are prone to interference, as they usually depend on a wireless connection.
Still, wireless cameras are great for private and temporary use. For systems requiring a larger network of cameras, wired models are the best option.
Our dome cameras better than bullet cameras?
Generally, no. Bullet cameras tend to have larger lenses, and therefore can cover a wider range than dome cameras.
Conclusion
Keeping a cautious eye on our property is an integral part of living. We protect ourselves and our loved ones better when we have a clear coverage of our surroundings. And CCTV cameras are a great help in this objective.
There was a time when I sat confused and overwhelmed by the staggering amount of information regarding CCTV night vision cameras. Today, through thorough study and experience, I have compressed all of this into a simple review and product guide for your use. With it, you can avoid the struggles I had to go through to find the best CCTV camera for night vision.
But if you still want my suggestion on what devices to pick from this list, my all-time favourite remains Blink XT2 (2nd Gen). I love everything about it; great balance, great quality, and long-life. Arlo Ultra Smart Home Security CCTV Camera System is my premium choice any day, any time. And when I shop on a budget, I will always consider TP-Link Tapo Mini Smart Security Camera, as the best choice at a low price.
