Best value for digital cameras
Nikon D3500 review | TechRadar
TechRadar Verdict
It's now over three years old, but the Nikon D3500 remains the best DSLR around for beginners looking to embrace creative, manual photography with a traditional setup. Built around a solid core of great image quality, intuitive menus and a superb battery life, the D3500 now offers impressive value, too. Mirrorless rivals should also be considered, particularly if you need a touchscreen or 4K video. But Nikon's entry-level DSLR continues to fly the flag for the format by offering the kind of handling and value that mirrorless cameras struggle to match.
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Two-minute review
The Nikon D3500 might be well over three years old, but it remains our number one pick for the title of best beginner DSLR, and even faces up well against stiff competition for the best DSLR camera overall. Why so? While this is partly down to the lack of new competition – most manufacturers have now stopped making new DSLRs – it's also because the D3500 nails the basics in a way that few other cameras have managed.
For starters, it delivers the three big advantages that DSLRs offer over their mirrorless alternatives: a superb battery life, great handling and good value. The latter is partly because the D3500 has an optical viewfinder, unlike the EVFs found on mirrorless rivals, but also because its huge range of native lenses are no longer new enough to command high price tags. For that reason, the Nikon D3500 is one of the best cheap cameras you can buy.
- Nikon D3500 (Black) at Amazon for $674
While the D3500's age counts in its favor when it comes to price, it does mean it lacks some modern features. The first is a lack of 4K video capture, which is now standard on most new cameras, although if you're happy with 1080p resolution (or you're not that interested in video at all) that shouldn't bother you too much.
Perhaps more limiting are the lack of an articulating screen and touchscreen functionality, which means the D3500 will take a little adjusting to for those coming from smartphones.
If you think a touchscreen is a deal-breaker, then it's worth considering alternatives like the Canon EOS Rebel SL3 / EOS 250D, or a mirrorless camera like the Fujifilm X-T200.
On the other hand, neither of those cameras come close to the D3500's 1,550-shot battery life, and it does compensate for the lack of a touchscreen with a handy 'Guide' mode for beginners, which takes you through the process of creating effects like a blurred background. This is a great way for inexperienced shooters to understand manual settings and start building their confidence and knowledge.
What about image quality? The D3500's 24.2MP sensor produces impressive results, although you'll want to invest in some additional lenses to really see its potential.
Fortunately, Nikon's DX system has a vast range of lenses to suit pretty much every shooting style and budget. We'd recommend buying the D3500 with the 'VR' version of its kit lens – the AF-P DX 18-55mm f/3.5-5.
6G VR – as this brings handy vibration reduction for very little extra cost.
Some more AF points would have been nice, but the 11-point AF system works fine for general shooting, and does the job for some moving subjects too.
If you're looking for a smaller camera for travel shooting, then mirrorless alternatives like the Fujifilm X-T200 or Canon EOS M50 Mark II are worth considering. But as an affordable, camera for beginners that'll teach you the nuts and bolts of creative photography, then the Nikon D3500 remains an excellent choice.
Nikon D3500 review: features
- Newer sensor than D3400, but effective resolution stays the same
- No touchscreen or 4K video
- Bluetooth connectivity
The D3500 retains the same effective 24.2MP pixel count as the old Nikon D3400, but uses a newer sensor, and closer inspection of the specs shows that the total count on the D3500's sensor stands at 24.78MP, compared to 24.
72MP on the D3400.
The APS-C sized sensor (typical for an entry-level DSLR, and much larger than the sensors used in most compact cameras) in the D3500 also does away with an optical low-pass filter to help improve image quality.
The D3500's ISO sensitivity range of 100-25,600 is also pretty wide, but doesn't improve on the D3400's range.
Nikon D3500 specs
Sensor: 24.2MP APS-C CMOS
Lens mount: Nikon F
Screen: 3.0-inch fixed display, 921,000 dots
Burst shooting: 5fps
Autofocus: 11-point AF
Video: Full HD 1080p
Connectivity: Bluetooth
Battery life: 1,550 shots
Weight: 415g (with battery and card)
Given that almost all mirrorless cameras (and even smartphones) offer 4K video, it's a bit disappointing to only see Full HD capture on the D3500. It's not all bad news though, as the D3500 can shoot at a smooth 60/50p, as well as 30/25p and 24p, while there are lower-resolution recording options as well.
There's also no microphone port, so you'll need to rely on the D3500's built-in monaural microphones. If you're looking to shoot video regularly, you'll probably want to look elsewhere, but for those who only have need to capture the odd clip or two, it's a perfectly adequate set up.
Nikon has also opted to carry over the same 3-inch display, with a modest 921,000-dot resolution, from the D3400. The screen is fixed, and sits flush with the body – if you want a DSLR with a vari-angle display then you'll need to look further up the range to the Nikon D5600 or at the Canon EOS Rebel SL3 / EOS 250D. It's also slightly disappointing to see no touchscreen functionality, a feature that would really lend itself to a entry-level DSLR, with touchscreens having become second nature for anyone using a smartphone.
Complementing the rear display is an optical viewfinder. This is perhaps the most obvious feature that that distinguishes DSLRs from mirrorless cameras. Many similarly-priced mirrorless cameras either rely solely on the rear screen for shooting, while others will feature electronic viewfinders (EVF) with fairly modest resolutions (at this price point).
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EVFs certainly have their advantages, especially as you can see the exposure 'live', meaning you don't get any nasty surprises when you fire the shutter. These days, modern EVFs are also fantastic at what they do. But still many photographers prefer the cleaner, definitely lag-free view offered by an optical viewfinder, so there's no 'best' option for everyone.
The optical viewfinder on the D3500 offers a coverage of 95%, which is typical for an entry-level DSLR, so you may need to be a bit careful when framing some shots to avoid unwanted elements creeping into the edges of the frame.
As on the Nikon D3400 there's no Wi-Fi connectivity, but you do get Bluetooth, so it's possible to transfer images via Nikon's SnapBridge feature. Here, an always-on Bluetooth Low Energy connection is made between the camera and your smart device, and you can configure SnapBridge so that images are automatically transferred as you shoot, or later, so you can select particular images to transfer.
Which 18-55mm kit lens should you buy with the D3500?
While you can buy the Nikon D3500 as a standalone camera with no lens, most people looking at this beginner camera will choose to get the 18-55mm lens that's bundled with the camera for a few more dollars or pounds.
Often referred to as a 'kit' lens as these lenses are sold as part of the kit with the camera, the focal range of 18-55mm offers a decent standard zoom range to get your started. This covers everything from wide-angle landscapes to moderate telephoto that's more suited for portraits.
(Image credit: Future)It's worth paying close attention to the lens though when you're looking to buy a D3500 as there's two versions available. There's the AF-P DX 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G and the AF-P DX 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR. The VR designation is what you want to pay attention to as this denotes Nikon's image stabilization system (known as Vibration Reduction).
The difference in cost between the two lenses is negligible, so our advice is to splash out a few dollars or pounds more for the VR version of the lens, as this will allow you to shoot at slower shutter speeds and still achieve sharp shots.
Once you're ready to upgrade your lens, or want something to complement your 18-55mm lens, take a look at our best Nikon lenses buying guide.
- Best entry-level DSLR: 10 budget DSLRs perfect for the beginner
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Phil Hall is an experienced writer and editor having worked on some of the largest photography magazines in the UK, and now edit the photography channel of TechRadar, the UK's biggest tech website and one of the largest in the world. He has also worked on numerous commercial projects, including working with manufacturers like Nikon and Fujifilm on bespoke printed and online camera guides, as well as writing technique blogs and copy for the John Lewis Technology guide.
Fujifilm X-T200 review | TechRadar
TechRadar Verdict
Where Fujifjilm fell just short of hitting the mark with the X-T100, the company has succeeded the second time round.
As a pared-back version of the X-T30, the X-T200 makes for a much better entry-level camera than its predecessor thanks to its better autofocus performance, superior video prowess and its burst of speed. But little niggles like an unreliable eye sensor and an uncomfortably placed joystick diminish the advantages of having a viewfinder.
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Pros
- +
Excellent color and dynamic range
- +
Sharp 3.5-inch rear touchscreen
- +
Reliable autofocus performance
- +
Sleek retro design that’s lightweight
Cons
- -
Very low buffer depth
- -
Lacks subject tracking in video
- -
Unreliable eye sensor
- -
Joystick not well placed when using viewfinder
Fujifilm’s higher-end X series cameras are some of the best around, so when the company decided to launch a scaled-back version of the X-T20 two years ago, we expected something special. While a very capable camera, the X-T100 didn’t quite blow us away but Fujifilm didn’t give up.
Second time round and the camera maker has come close to hitting the mark with the X-T200.
The new beginner mirrorless camera equivalent of the X-T30 is essentially an X-A7 with a viewfinder. The X-T200 shares a lot of the latter’s features, including the same sensor, autofocus system, ISO sensitivity and 4K video prowess. And that makes the X-T200 a major improvement over its predecessor.
Although the X-T200 was a tad more expensive than its predecessor at launch, it's now one of the best cheap cameras around, offering great value. It's also one of the best YouTube cameras. It’s a tad more expensive than the X-A7 kit, but you are paying for the benefit of a viewfinder when purchasing the X-T200. But is there enough of an advantage here to make the new camera a worthwhile entry-level APS-C mirrorless camera? Let’s find out.
(Image credit: TechRadar)- These are the best cameras for beginners you can buy right now
Key features
- Updated 24.
2MP sensor - 4K/30p video
- New 3.5-inch 16:9 rear touchscreen
It’s hard to justify spending top dollar on a high-end kit when there are more affordable options available like the X-T200, but while it appears great on paper, it doesn’t quite match up with the X-T30.
Firstly, it doesn’t use the same X Trans CMOS sensor you’ll find in Fujifilm’s high-end cameras. Instead, there’s a revised version of the APS-C CMOS image sensor found in the X-T100 – the upgrade here being the use of copper wiring rather than aluminum.
The improvements to the sensor means the readout from the camera is now 3.5x faster than the X-T100 (which, Fujifilm promises, reduces the effects of a rolling shutter) and ups the maximum ISO value to 25,600 (which topped out at 12,800 on the older model). It’s a similar upgrade that the X-A7 also boasts over the X-A5 and we found that the improved sensor produced some excellent results.
Key specs
Sensor: 24.
2MP APS-C CMOS
Autofocus: 425-point hybrid phase/contrast AF
ISO range: 200-12,800 (exp. 100-51,200)
Max burst: 8fps
Video: 4K/30p
Viewfinder: 2.36 million dots, OLED
LCD: 3.5-inch 2.78 million dot touchscreen
Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Weight: 370g (with battery and card)
The sensor is just one of many improvements the X-T200 has over its predecessor. The processor has also been given an upgrade, giving the new camera a slight bump in continuous shooting speed, taking it up from 6fps in the X-T100 to 8fps in the current model. That’s better than the X-A7 as well, which shares the same 6fps burst as the X-T100.
Video capabilities are much improved, with 4K capture at up to 30fps (compared to the rather disappointing 15fps on the X-T100) and Full HD 1080p video at up to 120fps now possible. The X-T200 has a new HDR video mode that combines multiple frames taken at different exposures to add more dynamic range to standard videos, but is only available at 60fps.
To reduce shaky video when shooting handheld, Fujifilm has designed a ‘digital gimbal’ that uses the camera’s built-in gyroscope, along with an image stabilization algorithm, to smoothen footage. It is important to note that this feature is different from the in-body image stabilization systems that many high-end bodies boast. That said, you can’t use this for 4K video capture – it’s only available for Full HD footage as enabling the feature crops out a large part of the sensor (perhaps to adjust framing).
Another, albeit small, advantage the X-T200 has over its predecessor when it comes to video features is the ability to trim footage in-camera.
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(Image credit: TechRadar)(Image credit: TechRadar)(Image credit: TechRadar)(Image credit: TechRadar)The X-T200 brings over the 3.5mm mic input that was available on the X-T100. There’s still no dedicated headphone port though, but there is a 3.5mm headphone adapter in the box with the X-T200 which can be plugged into the USB-C port.
The camera is also capable of displaying audio levels on the rear display or the viewfinder.
Speaking of which – the electronic viewfinder is the most obvious difference between the X-A7 and the X-T200. While it’s not available on the former, it’s the same 2.36 million dot panel we saw in the X-T100, with the same 0.62x magnification. There’s a handy eye sensor as well, so there’s no need to look for a button to swap between the EVF and live view.
The other main headline feature the X-T200 boasts is the large 3.5-inch 16:9 rear LCD display borrowed from the X-A7. Not only is it larger than the one on the X-T100, it’s now a fully articulating screen with a higher resolution panel of 2.76 million dots (over the older camera’s 1.04 million dot display). It’s a sharp display that will suit vloggers, the selfie-obsessed as well as help smartphone photographers transition to a ‘real’ camera easily.
The X-T200 uses the NP-W126S Li-ion battery that has a CIPA rating of 270 shots in standard mode, but can provide up to 450 shots in Economy mode (which you will find under the Power Management option within the camera’s menu system).
There’s no external charger in the box – the battery can be topped up in-camera via the USB-C port on the side.
Build and handling
- Redesigned control layout
- Deeper grip
- Uncomfortably placed joystick
There are major physical differences between the X-T200 and its predecessor, and the first one you’ll notice is the deeper, beefier grip. This makes it a more ergonomic entry-level option if you see yourself holding a camera for long periods of time. However, the thumb rest on the back panel isn’t well positioned, mostly because the display takes up a majority of the space on the rear of the camera – something we complained about in the X-A7 as well.
The lack of space on the rear panel also means that the control layout now sports a minimalist look. Gone is the four-directional D-pad control layout from the X-T100; instead we get a joystick multi-selector which, unfortunately, is uncomfortable to use.
We had a similar issue with the X-A7 but it wasn’t much of a bother there as we didn’t need to raise the camera to our eye. With the X-T200, though, using the joystick becomes a lot more difficult when using the EVF as your grip will need to be adjusted when the camera is raised for framing through the viewfinder. It’s also quite small, which may be a bother for some people with large mitts.
Below the joystick are the menu and back buttons sitting flush against the body of the camera. They, too, are rather small and can’t be found by feel alone – you will need to look at what you’re doing to find the buttons.
The top plate has the usual mode dial, along with two others to control aperture, shutter speed and exposure compensation, but the latter pair are also small and some users may find it difficult to turn them as they will require a shift in grip to access.
The function of the left-most dial on the top plate varies depending on which mode you’re shooting in.
When filming video, you can use it to change shutter speed, while it can be used to cycle through Film Simulation options when shooting stills. It is the only dial on the camera that we found easy to use – relatively easy to reach (although it does need a slight grip adjustment) and smooth to turn.
The XC 15-45mm f/3.5-5.6 OIS lens that ships in the box with the camera is quite good as far as kit lenses go, but there are some niggles there as well. The power zoom mechanism on the kit lens isn’t fast, and it’s hard to remember which way to turn the ring to zoom in and out – although if you use it long enough it might become second nature to you. That said, at 15mm, the lens is pretty wide, offering a 23mm equivalent focal length, and a 69mm equivalent when fully zoomed in at 45mm – a decent range for a kit lens.
At first glance it seems as though Fujifilm hasn’t added a flash to the X-T200, but it’s there, neatly sitting around the viewfinder bump and raised with the switch around the left-most dial on the top plate.
It’s a beautiful design that adds to the camera’s retro aesthetics.
The X-T200 also shares the same refreshed menu system introduced in the X-A7. It’s a much more user-friendly system and, best of all, offers a preview of various Film Simulation modes before you take the shot.
Most of the shooting options are available on the touchscreen, so chances are you won’t need to use (or customize) the physical buttons on the rear of the camera. If you want to keep it real simple, then just set the camera to the automatic SR+ mode (Advanced SR Auto) and everything will be taken care of for you, pretty much like how you’d use your smartphone camera.
(Image credit: TechRadar)Performance
- Excellent face-detect AF
- Reasonably good subject tracking
- Low buffer depth
The X-T200 boasts a hybrid AF system with 425 sensor-based phase detection points. To help you keep things in focus there are four AF modes – Single Point, Zone, Wide/Tracking and All.
Thanks to an improved AF algorithm, there’s very little fault when it comes to autofocus performance. In most cases, the X-T200 is capable of picking up your subject without too much prompting, although it’s easy to change with the camera’s touch-to-focus ability.
Face and eye detection are spot-on, with the camera capable of locking onto a person’s face with ease and following them even when they’ve turned away from the camera. Eye AF works well even if the subject is wearing glasses, a feat many entry-level cameras are not capable of achieving.
Subject tracking during continuous shooting is, however, a bit of a hit-and-miss. While you’ll definitely get a few usable frames from a single burst, you will find that the subject can go completely out of focus in some others. We had the same issue while shooting videos as there’s no subject tracking in this mode.
And speaking of continuous shooting: while there’s an improved 8fps burst mode here – handy for some sports and wildlife photography – the buffer memory hasn’t changed very much.
And that means the camera will slow down rather quickly in order to process and save all images to card.
The X-T200 also shares the X-A7’s 256-zone built-in metering system and, as before, works a charm. Considering we tested the new camera during the coronavirus lockdown and had to take most of our test shots indoors, the camera handled uneven lighting inside the house quite well.
As we mentioned earlier, the EVF has an eye sensor which automatically detects when something is close to the panel and switches from live view to framing via the viewfinder. However, we found the eye sensor to be occasionally unresponsive, particularly when the rear LCD was opened away from the body of the camera. We had to switch off the camera, fold the screen back against the body and then restart the device for the eye sensor to work again.
A couple of times the camera even froze up when we switched it on with the LCD display already unfurled, and we had to remove the battery to get things back to working order. That said, this happened rarely but well worth mentioning in case the issue goes beyond our review unit.
The Super EBC XC 15-45mm f/3.5-5.6 OIS kit lens needs a minimum focusing distance of 13cm for sharp images at the widest zoom (15mm focal length) and has a maximum magnification of 0.24x (or 1/4 life-size) – while that’s not quite enough for macro photography, we have to admit that there’s plenty of scope for experimentation and creativity here.
Image quality
- Excellent color reproduction
- Good dynamic range
- Acceptable noise performance
One thing we can never fault Fujifilm for is its color science, and the X-T200 continues that trend, producing some excellent JPEGs. Of course, what makes any Fujifilm stand out are the several Film Simulation modes and filters available on board that add some fun and pop to the images.
While our personal favorites are Velvia/Vivid and Classic Chrome, the colors with Provia/Standard are just as striking.
Like the X-A7, the sensor on the X-T200 is capable of capturing plenty of tones, allowing us to retrieve details in shadows during post processing. But where the X-A7 had a tendency to deepen darker tones, the X-T200 renders them as close to natural as possible, irrespective of which Film Simulation mode you use.
Image 1 of 8
(Image credit: TechRadar)(Image credit: TechRadar)(Image credit: TechRadar)(Image credit: TechRadar)(Image credit: TechRadar)(Image credit: TechRadar)(Image credit: TechRadar)(Image credit: TechRadar)There’s plenty of detail in the images, with barely any moiré (striped patterns) – even at ISO 6400. Noise becomes visible only at higher sensitivities of ISO 12,800 and above, but we’re hoping most beginner photographers won’t need to head up to the faster speeds.
RAW images are, of course, slightly noisier but perfectly usable up to ISO 6400.
If, however, you don’t want to edit RAW images in post, then there are two additional DR modes to improve contrast in images – DR200% and DR400% offer one and two stops of highlight compensation respectively.
In terms of video, the digital gimbal is an excellent addition, although it's a shame it can only be used for 1080p footage. Full HD movies, while perfectly usable, felt a little lackluster to us. On the other hand, 4K video quality is pretty darn impressive, with very little rolling shutter effect and a decent amount of detail.
Verdict
Compared to the X-T100, the successor model is a far better camera, now that there’s a larger and sharper rear screen and plenty more processing power under the hood – not to mention a much better autofocus system. It’s also a lot more comfortable in the hand as compared to the older camera and the X-A7 as well. The retro DSLR styling will easily win fans, and its easy-to-use setup should get new photographers up and running in no time at all.
The results it produces are marvelous and it can easily work well as a backup device for more advanced shooters.
The X-T200 is one of the more affordable X-series cameras sporting a viewfinder – the main reason you’d opt for it over the X-A7. However, an occasionally unreliable eye sensor had us using the rear screen more often, pretty much as we would the X-A7 – a camera that’s cheaper to buy with the kit lens. Moreover, the superb X-T30 is also about the same price as the X-T200 at the time of writing, considering it’s been on shelves for about a year now, making it a much better choice even for beginners as they’ll get a camera they can grow with.
Pricing aside, the X-T200 is a very capable camera and does a much better job of bridging the gap between Fujifilm’s higher end X-series and entry-level bodies as compared to its predecessor. For beginners and sheer value, it remains one of the best mirrorless cameras you can buy.
Competition
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(Image credit: TechRadar)Fujifilm X-A7
If it’s a beginner camera you’re after and you can live without a viewfinder, then you can save a decent chunk of change by opting for the X-A7 over the X-T200.
It lacks a decent grip, but the camera ships with a leather strap that we’d recommend using. Image quality is superb with the X-A7, and a refreshed menu system has made it much more user friendly for those transitioning from smartphone photography to a ‘real’ camera. The fully articulating 3.5-inch 16:9 rear LCD is also something that will make beginners feel right at home.
Read our in-depth Fujifilm X-A7 review
(Image credit: Canon)Canon EOS M6 Mark II
For those who can’t decide whether a viewfinder is essential or not should look to Canon’s newest APS-C mirrorless camera. The EOS M6 Mark II has a removable OLED EVF, along with specs to outdo the X-T200 – a 32.5MP high-res sensor and a burst speed of 14fps. It’s an excellent traveling companion and a superb option for vlogging as well, but it does cost more than the X-T200.
Read our in-depth Canon EOS M6 Mark II review
(Image credit: Future)Sony Alpha A6100
It’s a Sony camera, meaning you’re getting the best autofocus system there is.
In fact, we’ll go so far as to say that it’s the best entry-level APS-C mirrorless camera Sony has produced till date. Not only is the AF system class-leading, the battery life is also excellent, as is the image quality. However, this camera also suffers from low buffer memory, and very limited touchscreen functionality.
Read our in-depth Sony Alpha A6100 review
(Image credit: Future)Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III
This has long been one of our favourite mirrorless cameras, but where all the aforementioned cameras feature an APS-C sensor, this Olympus has a micro four thirds 16MP sensor. While that kind of resolution sounds quite low these days, the E-M10 Mark III is a highly capable camera that produces excellent images. You’ll also get the added benefit of in-body image stabilization (IBIS). That said, its autofocus system is not as capable as the X-T200’s and its menu system is too complicated to call it beginner-friendly. But you do get plenty of Art Filters to have some fun with.
Read our in-depth Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III review
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Sharmishta is TechRadar's APAC Managing Editor and loves all things photography, something she discovered while chasing monkeys in the wilds of India (yes, she studied to be a primatologist but has since left monkey business behind). While she's happiest with a camera in her hand, she's also an avid reader and has become a passionate proponent of ereaders, having appeared on Singaporean radio to talk about the convenience of these underrated devices. When she's not testing cameras and lenses, she's discovering the joys and foibles of smart home gizmos. She also contributes to Digital Camera World and T3, and helps produce two of Future's photography print magazines in Australia.
WHAT ARE VIDEO PERMISSIONS?
1. What is a high definition security camera?
All image formats with a resolution of 1280x720 or higher are considered high definition (HD). In the modern world of video surveillance, there are two directions: analog and digital.
Accordingly, there are analog and network (IP) HD cameras. Resolution 960H (NTSC: 960x480) is not classified as HD. Current HD resolution formats include: 1.0 megapixel (720p), 1.3 megapixel (960p), 2MP (1080p), 3MP, 5MP, 8MP (4K UHD), 12MP, 33MP (8K UHD).
In general, HD network cameras provide slightly better image quality than analog HD cameras of the same resolution (eg 720p).
Recently, one of our customers reported that he installed a video surveillance system on 720p AHD cameras (manufacturer claimed 1000TVL) and was dissatisfied: the image quality of these 720p AHD cameras turned out to be even worse than that of older cameras 960H. Why this happened, we will tell in the fourth part of the article.
2. Benefits of High Definition
Compared with standard definition, HD technology has enhanced the image detail. Image quality is further enhanced by various enhancement technologies such as progressive scan, 2D/3D dynamic noise reduction, wide dynamic range (WDR), etc.
In short, HD delivers superb picture quality. Conventional standard 9 analog camera60H gives a resolution of 960H/WD1, which is 960x480 pixels (for NTSC) or 960x576 pixels (for PAL). After the signal has been digitized in the DVR or Hybrid DVR, the image will consist of a maximum of 552960 pixels (0.5 megapixels).
A high-definition camera can cover a much wider area than a conventional camera. Take for example a 12-megapixel panoramic fisheye camera with a 360-degree field of view. With a built-in 12MP image sensor and ePTZ (Virtual Pan/Tilt/Zoom) and split image capability, it can replace multiple conventional CCTV cameras at once, greatly reducing installation costs and maintenance fees.
Excellent compatibility is another advantage of HD. Whether you shop online or go to local electronics stores, you've noticed that all TVs, camcorders and digital cameras support 1080p HD (FullHD). Accordingly, if you want this equipment to work with your CCTV system, you should choose a CCTV system that supports 1080p.
Also, we understand that 4K is the current trend, it is logical to expect 4K UHD video surveillance system to become popular in the future.
3. Various HD resolution formats
High-definition IP cameras occupy a central place in video surveillance systems. They can provide higher quality video with greater image detail and wider coverage than standard definition cameras. You can choose the right format of network (IP) cameras according to your requirements. For example, for face recognition or license plate recognition applications, choose 1080p or higher megapixel network cameras. To find out the resolution of a particular HD format, refer to the following table:
| Format | Resolution (in pixels) | Aspect ratio | Reamer |
| 1MP/720P | 1280x720 | 16:9 | Progressive |
| SXGA/960P | 1280x960 | 4:3 | Progressive |
1. 3MP | 1280x1024 | 5:4 | Progressive |
| 2MP/1080P | 1920x1080 | 16:9 | Progressive |
| 2.3MP | 1920x1200 | 16:10 | Progressive |
| 3MP | 2048x1536 | 4:3 | Progressive |
| 4MP | 2592x1520 | 16:9 | Progressive |
| 5MP | 2560x1960 | 4:3 | Progressive |
| 6MP | 3072x2048 | 3:2 | Progressive |
| 4K Ultra HD | 3840x2160 | 16:9 | Progressive |
| 8K Ultra HD | 7680x4320 | 16:9 | Progressive |
4 Choosing an HD Surveillance Camera
Besides image resolution, what else should be considered when choosing HD network cameras? Here we will share information on how to choose the right HD cameras from an installer's point of view.
Low illumination
As you know, the CCTV camera does not work like a consumer camera - the CCTV camera cannot use the flash when capturing an image / video. If the camera has poor performance in low light, its use is limited. When working in low light conditions, such a camera ''goes blind'', despite its very high resolution.
High resolution is a double-edged sword: the sensor manufacturer cannot increase the die area indefinitely, so increasing the resolution is associated with a decrease in the size of the pixel itself for the same sensor die sizes (usually 1/3''), so each pixel has less amount of light, resulting in a decrease in sensitivity as resolution (megapixels) increases.
At present, the optimal value for most areas of video surveillance is 2MP resolution (1080p/FullHD), it is for this resolution that most sensors from the Low Illumination series exist.
Video delay (Time lag)
All network (IP) video surveillance cameras have some delay compared to real time, and the cost or quality of the camera is not the determining factor for this delay.
For example, for the same 720p image, the video delay time for some cameras is 0.1s, and for some other network cameras, this time may be 0.4s, and even more than 0.7s. Why is the video delay time different? Unlike an analog camera, a network camera compresses the video (a process called encoding), and the user device decodes the video for display, resulting in video delay. Generally, the shorter the latency, the better the image processor's capabilities. This means that you need to select a network camera with the lowest video latency.
Heat dissipation
When the security camera is in operation, it generates heat, especially when the infrared light is turned on at night. This rule is true for any CCTV camera. Excessive heat generation increases the chance of overheating and damage to the camera. When choosing megapixel cameras, pay attention to:
Choose a camera with lower power consumption. Low power consumption means the camera saves power, generates less heat.
The downside: in winter, a camera with low heat emission can freeze (usually this concerns the IR filter), and also low consumption means that weak IR illumination is installed, this should also be taken into account.
Consider using a camera with enhanced performance in low light (no infrared or other artificial lighting). Such a camera in low light conditions can capture images even in the dark (> 0.009 - 0.001 lux).
Choose a camera housing with good heat dissipation. A metal case is preferable to a plastic one. To ensure reliable performance, the elite series network cameras use a finned heatsink on the body to maximize heat dissipation, which greatly helps the camera to ensure reliable performance.
Price
''High price = high quality'' - in most cases this rule is true. Based on research reports, the consumer often believes that a higher price of a product indicates a higher level of quality. But price isn't the only indicator of good quality, especially when buying "Made in China" products.
I have been working in the video surveillance industry for over five years and I can say that end users, integrators and installers can get high quality products from Chinese suppliers/manufacturers at a very competitive price. High-end cameras may have a unique body design, offering special features not found in other products.
Technical support
In conclusion, network cameras should also have good technical support. While IP cameras are becoming easier to set up and operate, end users may encounter technical issues that require outside help. Faced with such a problem, you will receive technical support from us within 1-2 days, which is quite acceptable. It is precisely because of this that I personally do not advise buying CCTV cameras on Aliexpress, since in the future you are unlikely to receive technical support from sellers online support.
Megapixels vs. TV lines
| Device type | TVL/Megapixels | NTSC final resolution | Final resolution PAL | Megapixels NTSC | Megapixel PAL |
| Analog matrix SONY CCD | 480TVL | 510H*492V | 500H*582V | ≈0. 25 megapixels | ≈0.29 megapixels |
| 600TVL | 768*494 | 752*582 | ≈0.38 megapixels | ≈0.43 megapixels | |
| 700TVL | 976*494 | 976*582 | ≈0.48 megapixels | ≈0.56 megapixels | |
| Analog sensors SONY CMOS | 1000TVL | 1280*720 | ≈0.92 megapixels | ||
| IP cameras and IP recorders | 720P | 1280*720 | ≈0.92 megapixels | ||
| 960P | 1280*960 | ≈1.23 megapixels | |||
| 1080P | 1920*1080 | ≈2.07 megapixels | |||
| 3MP | 2048×1536 | ≈3.14 megapixels | |||
| 5MP | 2592×1920 | ≈4.97 megapixels | |||
| Analog recorders | QCIF | 176*144 | ≈0. 026 megapixels | ||
| CIF | 352*288 | ≈0.1 megapixels | |||
| HD1 | 576*288 | ≈0.16 megapixels | |||
| D1(FCIF) | 704*576 | ≈0.4 megapixels | |||
| 960H | 928*576 | ≈0.53 megapixels | |||
| QVGA | 320×240 | 4:3 | 76.8 kpix |
| SIF (MPEG1 SIF) | 352×240 | 22:15 | 84.48 kpix |
| CIF (MPEG1 VideoCD) | 352×288 | 11:9 | 101.37 kpix |
| WQVGA | 400×240 | 5:3 | 96 kpix |
| [MPEG2 SV-CD] | 480×576 | 5:6 | 276.48 kpix |
| HVGA | 640×240 | 8:3 | 153. 6 kpix |
| HVGA | 320×480 | 2:3 | 153.6 kpix |
| nHD | 640×360 | 16:9 | 230.4 kpix |
| VGA | 640×480 | 4:3 | 307.2 kpix |
| WVGA | 800×480 | 5:3 | 384 kpix |
| SVGA | 800×600 | 4:3 | 480 kpix |
| FWVGA | 848×480 | 16:9 | 409.92 kpix |
| qHD | 960×540 | 16:9 | 518.4 kpix |
| WSVGA | 1024×600 | 128:75 | 614.4 kpix |
| XGA | 1024×768 | 4:3 | 786.432 kpix |
| XGA+ | 1152×864 | 4:3 | 995.3 kpix |
| WXVGA | 1200×600 | 2:1 | 720 kpix |
| HD 720p | 1280×720 | 16:9 | 921. 6 kpix |
| WXGA | 1280×768 | 5:3 | 983.04 kpix |
| SXGA | 1280×1024 | 5:4 | 1.31 Mpx |
| WXGA+ | 1440×900 | 8:5 | 1.296 MP |
| SXGA+ | 1400×1050 | 4:3 | 1.47 Mpx |
| XJXGA | 1536×960 | 8:5 | 1.475 Mpx |
| WSXGA (?) | 1536×1024 | 3:2 | 1.57 MP |
| WXGA++ | 1600×900 | 16:9 | 1.44 Mpx |
| WSXGA | 1600×1024 | 25:16 | 1.64MP |
| UXGA | 1600×1200 | 4:3 | 1.92 MP |
| WSXGA+ | 1680×1050 | 8:5 | 1.76 Mpx |
| Full HD 1080p | 1920×1080 | 16:9 | 2.07 Mpx |
| WUXGA | 1920×1200 | 8:5 | 2. 3 Mpx |
| 2K | 2048×1080 | 256:135 | 2.2 MP |
| QWXGA | 2048×1152 | 16:9 | 2.36 MP |
| QXGA | 2048×1536 | 4:3 | 3.15 MP |
| WQXGA / Quad HD 1440p | 2560×1440 | 16:9 | 3.68 MP |
| WQXGA | 2560×1600 | 8:5 | 4.09 MP |
| QSXGA | 2560×2048 | 5:4 | 5.24 Mpx |
| 3K | 3072×1620 | 256:135 | 4.97 MP |
| WQXGA | 3200×1800 | 16:9 | 5.76 MP |
| WQSXGA | 3200×2048 | 25:16 | 6.55 MP |
| QUXGA | 3200×2400 | 4:3 | 7.68 MP |
| QHD | 3440×1440 | 43:18 | 4.95 Mpx |
| WQUXGA | 3840×2400 | 8:5 | 9. 2 Mpx |
| 4K UHD (Ultra HD) 2160p | 3840×2160 | 16:9 | 8.3 Mpx |
| 4K UHD | 4096×2160 | 256:135 | 8.8 Mpx |
| 4128×2322 | 16:9 | 9.6 Mpx | |
| 4128×3096 | 4:3 | 12.78 MP | |
| 5120×2160 | 21:9 | 11.05 Mpx | |
| 5K UHD | 5120×2700 | 256:135 | 13.82 Mpx |
| 5120×2880 | 16:9 | 14.74 Mpx | |
| 5120×3840 | 4:3 | 19.66 Mpx | |
| HSXGA | 5120×4096 | 5:4 | 20.97 Mpx |
| 6K UHD | 6144×3240 | 256:135 | 19.90 Mpx |
| WHSXGA | 6400×4096 | 25:16 | 26.2 Mpx |
| HUXGA | 6400×4800 | 4:3 | 30. 72 Mpx |
| 7K UHD | 7168×3780 | 256:135 | 27.09 Mpx |
| 8K UHD (Ultra HD) 4320p / Super Hi-Vision | 7680×4320 | 16:9 | 33.17 Mpx |
| WHUXGA | 7680×4800 | 8:5 | 36.86 Mpx |
| 8K UHD | 8192×4320 | 256:135 | 35.2 Mpx |
Table of H.264 H.264 video surveillance camera recording hours at D1 resolution, 1Mp (1280*720), 2Mp (1920*1080), 3Mp(2048*1536), 5M(2560x1920) at frequency frames 8, 12, 25 fps and different intensity of movement.
To reduce the amount of video information stored in DVRs, various compression algorithms are used.
The main advantage of the H.264 algorithm is inter-frame compression, in which for each next frame its differences from the previous one are determined, and only these differences are stored in the archive after compression.
During the operation of the algorithm, reference frames (I-frames) are periodically stored in the archive, which are a compressed full image, and then only changes, called intermediate frames (P- and B-frames), are stored for 25-100 frames. This compression method allows you to get high image quality with a small volume, but requires more calculations than compression in the MJPEG standard.
When using the MJPEG algorithm, each frame is subjected to compression, regardless of whether it differs from the previous one. Therefore, the only way to reduce the amount of stored data is to increase compression and thereby reduce the quality of the recording. This method is used only in simple stand-alone video recorders that do not require long-term storage of information.
Another advantage of the h364 algorithm is its ability to work in constant bit rate (CBR) mode, in which the degree of video information compression changes dynamically and thus the volume of the created archive per second is clearly fixed.
This feature of the algorithm makes it possible to unambiguously determine the maximum volume of the archive per hour of continuous operation of the system, as well as the required network traffic for remote access.
TOP 10 best digital cameras - Ranking 2021
What lover of quality pictures can do without a great camera? Of course, it is a digital camera that will help you quickly and clearly capture an interesting moment. Such frames will be able to please the user for a lifetime.
Digital cameras are in high demand, so we offer you to get acquainted with the top 10 truly best models, according to buyers and experts. This is a ranking of the really most interesting digital cameras that have an ideal price-quality ratio in 2021 - 2022.
10Canon PowerShot SX60 HS
The Canon PowerShot SX60 HS boasts a serious optical zoom with a 65x zoom. The dedicated lens is ideal for capturing wildlife and its inhabitants. With NFC and Wi-Fi, you can easily shoot and then send files anywhere without the hassle of wires.
The swivel screen adds convenience during use. Phase detection autofocus plays a big role here, as well as a good electronic viewfinder, which makes this camera very interesting.
Pros:
- Powerful 65x zoom.
- Great for capturing wildlife and landscapes.
- Macro, Wi-Fi and RAW available.
Cons:
- Pretty noisy matrix.
- Night shooting leaves much to be desired.
9Olympus Tough TG-4
The beautiful and bright body of the Olympus Tough TG-4 makes the camera stand out at first sight. At the same time, reliable protection against splashes allows you to confidently use the device even during extreme travel. Due to the unprecedented light weight, the gadget can even fit in your pocket. For perfect navigation, a GPS receiver is provided, and you can send recently taken photos using Wi-Fi. There are also built-in pressure gauge and electronic compass.
Pros:
- Robust waterproof case.
- Many useful features for travelers and adventurers.
- Very small dimensions.
Cons:
- Frankly poor video quality.
- Unstable factory firmware.
8Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX60
Need full control and powerful zoom? Then you should pay attention to the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX60, because this camera has a 30x optical zoom and simple automatic modes for quick shooting. The built-in Wi-Fi module offers lightning-fast transfer of captured frames to a computer or smartphone. But high detail became possible due to the advanced 20.4-megapixel matrix. There is a dedicated accessory jack, and manual settings allow you to adjust the most important parameters.
Pros:
- Ergonomic design and minimal weight.
- Serious high quality zoom.
- Decent automatic modes.
Cons:
- It's hard to get a good picture without noise.
7Nikon Coolpix P900
The main unconditional advantage of the Nikon Coolpix P900 digital camera is its record optical zoom (83x).
For better convenience, there is a swivel screen and a macro mode. There is an electronic viewfinder and contrast autofocus. Thanks to the tremendous zoom, you can easily take a close-up picture of the moon or a flying plane.
Pros:
- Powerful lens with incredible zoom.
- Excellent ergonomics and quality materials.
- Swivel screen, NFC, Wi-Fi.
Cons:
- Too much weight.
- Noticeable noise problems.
6Canon PowerShot G1 X Mark II
A powerful compact with powerful hardware - that's how you want to characterize the Canon PowerShot G1 X Mark II in a few words. The device has a separate macro mode, as well as a swivel touch screen. There is an optical 5x zoom. This camera has got a nice metal body that fits perfectly in the hand. But a fast lens is ready to work real miracles.
Pros:
- A balanced option for a beginner photographer.
- A multifunctional lens with excellent optics.
- Various settings can be configured.
Cons:
- Slow continuous shooting in RAW format.
- Pretty heavy camera.
5Fujifilm X70
The Fujifilm X70 is an advanced model in a miniature body. The large APS-C sensor is complemented by an excellent fixed lens. Thanks to the abundance of manual settings, you can create really beautiful shots. Also worth noting is a digital teleconverter and lightning-fast autofocus. A swivel 3-inch screen is a nice addition.
Pros:
- Large die and light weight.
- Rotating display available.
- Stunning photos with rich colors.
Cons:
- The screen functionality is underdeveloped.
- Autofocus is not the best.
4Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX100
Another representative of compact cameras is the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX100. This solution will not only satisfy the needs of the casual hobbyist, but will also become a multifunctional tool for the experienced photographer who doesn't want to carry the heaviest lenses with them all the time.
Good quality photos and 4K video shooting are included. The buyer is immediately greeted by a large matrix, as well as a universal lens with a powerful zoom.
Pros:
- Small camera with large sensor.
- Built-in viewfinder and fast zoom lens.
- High-quality pictures, as well as flexible settings.
Cons:
- Quite an ordinary fixed screen.
- Severe limitations when shooting video.
3Fujifilm X100T
The Fujifilm X100T is a compact camera with professional features. There is an advanced X-Trans CMOS II (APS-C) sensor, a hybrid viewfinder, a versatile FUJINON F2 lens, and a large and bright screen. The built-in flash recharges instantly. The quality of the photos is really delightful, because the amount of noise is minimized. Especially worth noting is the night shooting, which is one of the best. There is a special macro mode, and the Wi-Fi module allows you to quickly send files to another device.
Pros:
- Amazing photo quality.
- Hybrid viewfinder with electronic rangefinder.
- Excellent build, Wi-Fi.
Cons:
- Extremely high price.
- Fixed shield.
2Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100
The well-respected Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 has long been considered almost a reference example of compact models. Such an extremely light and small camera has a good range of features. Even at high ISO values, photos are obtained without strong noise. This should add excellent autonomy and pleasant ergonomics.
Pros:
- A really compact camera with a stylish design.
- Very decent detail.
- High-quality screen and excellent autonomy.
Cons:
- Very expensive accessories.
- Ill-conceived safety shutters.
1Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10
The compact Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 goes beyond its format.
