Indoor vs outdoor CCTV cameras

Outdoor cameras carry an IP rating — IP66 or IP67 — meaning the housing resists dust and rain. Indoor cameras usually do not, and moisture will eventually reach the sensor.

Outdoor units also need stronger IR illumination and sun shields, since they face open space and direct light. Indoor cameras can use lower IR power because walls reflect light back.

Placement matters as much as rating. An outdoor camera under a covered walkway lasts far longer than the same camera fully exposed to sun and rain.

If in doubt, choose the outdoor-rated unit. An IP67 camera works perfectly well indoors; the reverse is not true.