Resolution, storage, night vision and remote access — everything you need to know before installing security cameras this year.
Choosing the right CCTV system is one of the smartest investments you can make for your home or business. But with dozens of brands, resolutions and recording options on the market, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. This guide breaks down what actually matters in 2025.
Resolution: how much is enough?
For most Australian homes, 4MP (2K) cameras hit the sweet spot between clarity and storage cost. Businesses that need to read number plates or identify faces from a distance should step up to 8MP (4K) on key entry points.
Higher resolution means larger files, so balance image quality against how long you want to retain footage.
Storage and retention
A network video recorder (NVR) with a dedicated surveillance-grade hard drive is the reliable choice. As a rule of thumb, plan for at least 14 days of continuous recording — most insurers and incident reviews need a fortnight of history.
Motion-only recording can dramatically extend retention without upgrading your drive.
Night vision and remote access
Infrared night vision is standard, but colour night vision (using low-light sensors and a warm spotlight) is now affordable and far more useful for identifying intruders.
Finally, make sure your system offers a secure mobile app so you can check live footage and receive motion alerts from anywhere — this is the feature our customers value most.
James D.
Head of Security
