Closed-circuit television, or CCTV, cameras have been around for a long time — since 1949. We owe them a lot for paving the way forward over many decades of surveillance tech. Fast forward to 2023, and video smart lock systems have made the similar kind of home and business security more compact, more affordable and a whole lot more accessible. Here’s how the differences break down these days.
What Are CCTV Cameras?
A CCTV camera system is made up of a video camera or a series of video cameras connected — whether via wires or wirelessly — to a monitor (or monitors) for viewing. CCTV cameras display footage live on the monitors, and most offer options for recording that footage, too. Traditionally, CCTV monitors weren’t like normal TVs; they were made to display CCTV footage only, though this would change as digital CCTV camera systems became available. Most CCTV for household usage are motion-activated and will only record when they detect motion, but some of them can also support continuous video recording.
For decades, CCTV camera surveillance systems relied on analog technology, meaning they used physical media like video tapes to record and store footage. More contemporary digital systems switched over to DVR or SD card storage, and modern devices offer HD monitoring, live viewing across devices via Wi-Fi or wireless network connection and features such as camera repositioning and zoom. Typically, CCTV cameras have served as a business mainstay, with useful features like local and remote monitoring, suspect identification and even potentially reduced insurance premiums offering some real peace of mind.
Where CCTV Cameras Fall Short
CCTV camera systems generally sport a higher price tag than modern smart systems, especially for brand-name models and when an external monitor is required. Additionally, as devices more suited for industrial use, users can expect a much more high-effort installation process, particularly in the case of hardwired models (which will typically require professional installation).
In 2023, though, perhaps the most notable shortcoming of old-school CCTV camera devices is that they simply lack the convenient, intuitive features that connected, smart video systems are known for (more on that in a bit).
Enter Next-Gen Video Smart Lock Systems
Video smart lock systems, such as the next-gen all-in-one video doorbell smart lock, Vision Elite, combines features of keyless access smart locks with digital, network-connected doorbell video cameras. These video smart locks synergize the benefits of a CCTV camera system and a smart lock into a single seamless, straightforward and long-lasting device.
Compared to CCTV cameras, video smart locks usually come at a more affordable price and can be installed easily by homeowners. If you are using a smart lock from Lockly Vision series, the live streaming will start when any person rings the built-in doorbell on the smart lock. Meanwhile, you can also monitor your doorway with live streaming anytime via the Lockly app. Live footage will be stored locally on an SD card where they stay private and secure. Furthermore, auto-recording will be activated whenever motion is detected with alerts sent to your smartphone if you are having the latest Vision Elite video doorbell smart lock.
What Video Smart Locks Do Better
While CCTV cameras have long been the domain of businesses, law enforcement, industrial use, traffic monitors and the like — serving as a luxury item for the home, at best — video smart lock systems truly bring the technology and the peace of mind that goes with it, to the home turf. But what truly sets them apart from their closed-circuit counterparts is the abundance of user-friendly smart features they offer alongside all of the surveillance utility of a CCTV camera.
Lockly Vision Elite, the ultimate option of latest video doorbell smart lock, for instance, drastically elevates the security camera experience with features including:
- Motion sensing cameras that auto-record when movement is detected, the keypad is used or the doorbell is pushed.
- Live smartphone alerts that work in sync with motion detection so you can learn and control the status of your doors and home no matter where in the world you are.
- Full high-definition video for a detailed look at those who have arrived on your doorstep.
- Live HD streaming and remote control from anywhere via Lockly App, an asset for property owners and travelers alike.
- Night vision and infrared video that captures detailed footage up to 15 feet away to detect intruders before they enter your home.
- Voice control for ultimate accessibility to cater to family members and guests of all abilities and ages.
- Two-way talk system that provides audio and video surveillance, as well as a convenient way to chat with guests before entry so you can safely determine their identity.
And let’s not forget the smart lock itself, which features remote access from smart devices, 3D biometric fingerprint scanning, temporary guest passes, PIN Genie peek-proof feature for code entry, set-it-and-forget-it auto-locking, and storage of up to 99 unique fingerprints for lighting-fast touch access.
Get Started With Lockly’s Video Doorbell Smart Locks
With the Lockly Vision or Vision Elite powering your home’s video smart lock system, you’ve got security tech with smart features that dated tech simply can’t compete with, all at a fraction of the size of a CCTV camera setup, at a lower cost, and with virtually none of the hassle. Enjoy freedom with the world’s most advanced smart locks.
Dan is a Dallas-based freelance and small business writer with more than a decade of experience. In the tech and business worlds, he’s been fortunate enough to collaborate with Samsung, Verizon, Motley Fool, USA Today, Linksys, Vizio and many more.
Sources
Deep Sentinel - A Brief History of Surveillance Cameras
Mobile Video Guard - What Are CCTV Cameras and How Do They Work?
Techradar - CCTV vs. Smart Home Security Cameras: What’s the Difference and Which is Best?
