Need PTZ recommendation please

Slp82

Young grasshopper
Feb 16, 2019
74
11
Texas
I read through the 2 MP starlight list, there is a ton of PTZ's listed. I even read the new review on the mini PTZ. There is a lot to consider. Here is what I currently know I prefer:

1.) Prefer it white (house is white and will blend in better)

2.) Prefer it be all metal, or mostly metal (Texas sun takes a beating on plastic over the years)

3.) I think we can all agree the 2 MP Starlight's are the best, so 2 MP it is

4.) If it can be programmed to track and automatically zoom (I know very little about PTZ's), the most distance I would need is for it to be able to zoom in to the point of identifying someone at say 80 feet max (maybe 12x would work?). I live in a neighborhood and beyond 80 feet for a trip wire, or intrusion zone would put it in a constant state of tracking from neighbors vehicles on the main road. I am just wanting this to track anyone who steps into the front half of my property which the entire lot (front and rear) is about a 10,000 sq ft.

5.) I prefer to keep it as small as possible so it does not draw more attention from neighbors than necessary. At that same token, I do not want to give up durability (metal) or function (decent zoom) to keep it small.

Thank you in advance for any help/recommendations. I also if there is something else I should consider, please feel free to advise me.
 
There are a wide range of PTZ cameras that would almost meet your needs depending on your budget, from $200 to 2000.
I say almost because if you are relying on auto tracking to do anything you will be disappointed.

There are many that have auto tracking and some work fairly well, but not many work great in the dark, the more light the better.
If you are requiring them to zoom in on your target for security purposes you CAN NOT depend on auto tracking..
 
So best to forget the PTZ and just maybe mount the best 4k camera available to just get a good overview during the day then huh?
 
You don't even need the "best 4k" cam.
The best security solution for most is several fixed cams covering the desired location. A 2mp will show you the same image as a 4k camera.
The difference is when you want to do a digital zoom it will look slightly better, and maybe if your reading plates.

If you have the budget, a couple of starlight fixed cams to cover the security area is all you need, and a PTZ to play around with is a nice too...:lol:
The PTZ is great tool/toy that will capture video and can be good part of a security setup but not the Auto Tracking part of it.
You can use them to work together if you have a NVR, not sure if BI does this or not..

But planning before buying is the key.
And for the money you spend on one you can get enough fixed cams to do the job.
For the distance, they have veri vocal fixed cams with 12x, the IR isn't the greatest on them and it is best to position it closer to the target area if you can.

PC-HFW5231E-Z12E
https://www.amazon.com/EmpireTech-IPC-HFW5231E-Z12E-Starlight-Network-English/dp/B07B9NFPR3
or contact @EMPIRETECANDY

Read the cliff notes if you haven't, they are very good.

For me - I own no fixed cams, only PTZ's... But I am not counting on securing my property with them.
Just some big expensive toys...
 
Last edited:
As an Amazon Associate IPCamTalk earns from qualifying purchases.
4K cameras in a reasonable price range (under $350) that work at night do not exist, unless you add a lot of light. Stick with multiple 2MP or 4MP starlight of darkfighter fixed or zoom cameras.

Test do not guess !!!!!!!!!
 
4K cameras in a reasonable price range (under $350) that work at night do not exist, unless you add a lot of light. Stick with multiple 2MP or 4MP starlight of darkfighter fixed or zoom cameras.

Test do not guess !!!!!!!!!

We live in a neighborhood that is lit up pretty good with street lights, heck one is right on the out corner of my lot at the farthest point. Then we have 3 lights (one mounted on each side of the front garage on the brick, and another on the porch that have 100 watt equivalent LED bulbs and run all night. So would a 4MP starlight work for this situation? If so what model (preferably a turret with varifocal)?
 
We live in a neighborhood that is lit up pretty good with street lights, heck one is right on the out corner of my lot at the farthest point. Then we have 3 lights (one mounted on each side of the front garage on the brick, and another on the porch that have 100 watt equivalent LED bulbs and run all night. So would a 4MP starlight work for this situation? If so what model (preferably a turret with varifocal)?

Hi @Slp82

Search the forum for recent reviews from Members - looks of good cameras to look at and consider. If you want 8MP, look for the newer models with the 1/1.8" sensor. Also look for the new starlight+ reviews of the 4MP models.

iirc SourthernYankee had a short list on his typical greeting message to get you started on some good models worth considering.