Night vision camera: infrared or full color?

During the day, many cameras seem good, but in the dark you see the real difference. Night vision determines whether you only recognize movement or can also better assess details such as clothing, direction, vehicle color and faces. Therefore, when giving advice we always look at the evening and night situation around the house or the business.

It is important to consider how much ambient light is already available. A street lamp, exterior lighting, or garden spot light can greatly assist a camera. A dark backyard without light requires a different camera or additional lighting.

Infrared cameras use invisible IR LEDs and usually display black-and-white images in the dark. This is reliable and also works in low-light conditions. For overview, motion detection, and general control, infrared is often sufficient.

The disadvantage is that color information is missing. A jacket, car, or bag can be harder to distinguish in black and white. Reflections from walls, windows, or roof edges can also affect the image if the camera is positioned incorrectly.

Full-color cameras also try to maintain color images in the evening. This works especially well with existing lighting or with built-in white light. At a driveway, store entrance, or company property, this can provide much extra recognition.

However, you should consider light pollution. A camera with visible white light is not always desirable in neighboring homes, bedrooms, or quiet gardens. Therefore, we always tailor full color to the location and to what you truly want to be able to recognize.

A good night camera can perform poorly when it looks at glass, a white wall, or an overhang of a roof edge. Infrared light can then reflect back and overexpose the image. Spiderwebs and rain near the lens can also cause disturbing alerts.

Therefore, we do not test the image only during the day after installation. We look at viewing angle, reflection, lighting, and detection zones. Small adjustments in angle or height often make a big difference.

If you mainly want to know if anyone is in the garden or at the door, infrared is often a strong choice. If you want to be able to see details on a driveway, entrance or store, full color is interesting.

In many installations, we combine both: quiet infrared cameras for general coverage and full-color cameras in areas where recognition is more important. This way, you only pay for extra technology that truly adds value.

Every home and every business property is different. That is why we always look at viewing angles, cable routes, network, recording preferences and who needs access to the app.

A good preparation starts with three questions: what exactly do you want to be able to see, when do you want to receive a notification and how long do you want to be able to watch the videos?