When choosing a PTZ camera, one of the key decisions is resolution. A common comparison is between a 4MP PTZ with a 1/2.8" sensor and 25x zoom (5mm-125mm) and a 2MP PTZ with the same sensor size and zoom range (4.8mm-120mm). While higher resolution sounds better on paper, the reality is more nuanced—especially when considering low-light performance.
Pros & Cons of a 4MP PTZ (1/2.8” Sensor, 25x Zoom)
Pros:
✓ Higher resolution provides sharper images in daylight and well-lit conditions.
✓ More detail when zooming in, improving identification of subjects at a distance.
✓ Better for applications where daytime clarity is a priority (e.g., parking lots, city surveillance).
Cons:
X Same sensor size as 2MP but with smaller pixels, reducing low-light sensitivity.
X More data to process and store, which can impact bandwidth and NVR storage.
X Potentially noisier night-time images due to increased pixel density on a small sensor.
Pros & Cons of a 2MP PTZ (1/2.8” Sensor, 25x Zoom)
Pros:
✓ Larger pixels due to lower resolution, leading to better low-light performance.
✓ Typically superior night vision with less noise and better image clarity in dark conditions.
✓ More efficient in terms of bandwidth and storage requirements.
Cons:
X Lower resolution means less detail in bright conditions.
X Zoomed-in images won’t be as sharp as a 4MP counterpart.
X Might not capture finer details like license plates or facial features at longer distances.
Which One Should You Choose?
If daytime clarity and detail are your primary concern, go with the 4MP PTZ.
If low-light performance is critical, the 2MP PTZ is the better choice.
If you need a balance, consider a camera with a larger sensor size (e.g., 1/1.8” or larger) to get both resolution and better night vision.
Final Thoughts
Resolution isn’t the only factor that determines camera performance. Sensor size, lens quality, and image processing all play a role. For night-time security applications, a 2MP PTZ often outperforms a 4MP with the same sensor size due to its larger pixel size. But if your focus is daytime detail, the extra resolution of 4MP can be a significant advantage.
Which one do you prefer for your setup? Let’s discuss it!
4MP vs. 2MP PTZ Cameras – Which One is Right for You?
Re: 4MP vs. 2MP PTZ Cameras – Which One is Right for You?
So it has been to cold and to much snow for me to go mount one of my Long Range cameras.. Something that I will be doing before to long is adding a 22x bullet 4mp camera with a 1/1.8in sensor and going to mount it close to one of my 25x 4mp PTZ cameras just so people can see what a better sensor can look like compared to smaller sensor of the same MP.. For best night time footage the 1/1.8in should out perform the 4mp PTZ with a 1/2.8in sensor.. If you happen to have a 1046EW-AI that has a 1/1.8in sensor and has a awesome picture at night just no zoom..
Be Safe.