CCTV cameras offer an ideal way to improve the security of a property, and there's a wide range of options from which to choose. One of the most common distinctions is between varifocal and non-varifocal lens cameras. The main difference between them is that varifocal cameras allow aspects such as the angle of view and focal length to be adjusted, and that offers several compelling benefits.

Here are just four.

1. Detail

Most people assume they can simply use the zoom function of a camera to get a closer look at smaller details, such as faces and license plates. However, static cameras will use fewer pixels the closer you zoom in, which is why a zoomed image will often appear blurry. In contrast, varifocal cameras adjust the depth of field while maintaining the same quality. As such, using a varifocal camera could mean identifying key details that wouldn't have been caught by a traditional camera.

2. Coverage

If you must cover a larger area, it only makes sense to opt for one or more varifocal lens security cameras. Though they might be more expensive than traditional cameras, you'll generally have to buy fewer of them when monitoring larger areas. This should prove a particularly attractive benefit if you'll need to track different vehicles, people or objects as they move around larger areas.

3. Flexibility

You might think you know exactly where your security cameras should be pointing, but it's quite common to have a change of heart once they are up, especially if you're dealing with a new property. With a varifocal lens camera, you can easily adjust the focal length and zoom to cover an area you didn't think would be important. You can also more easily change things up when your security needs shift. This helps avoid all the hassle, downtime and expense associated with changing the position of traditional cameras. 

4. Easy Mounting

Finally, it's worth keeping in mind that varifocal lens CCTV cameras are often easier to mount than other cameras. This is because they don't necessarily need to face the exact point where they need to focus. In many cases, you'll be able to find an ideal mounting location near the necessary focal point, but this isn't always the case. With a varifocal lens camera, this isn't such a problem since you can mount the camera further from the desired location, then simply zoom in on the intended area without losing any detail.

For more information on security systems, contact a professional near you.