Reddit User Asks Why Security Cameras Still Film At Low Quality When 4K Equipment Is Becoming Cheaper

Find out the reason why we still have low-quality footages despite having advanced video technologies.

May

Published in Interesting
January 6, 2022

Reddit User Asks Why Security Cameras Still Film At Low Quality When 4K Equipment Is Becoming Cheaper

In this digital age, you'd expect that every gadget used by businesses is a high-end one. But you're dead wrong.

Watch a video of a jaw-dropping car accident from a highway CCTV or a cashier going about their daily job in a convenience store. What's the first thing you'll notice?

Yes, it's none other than the poor video quality. In an age where smartphones can capture crisp 4K videos, it can be surprising to see such low-quality footage nowadays.

Experts call this era, the observation age. That's because security systems have been a natural part of our daily lives.

We install them in homes for a sense of security. All kinds of businesses have them too.

But despite the continuous developments in video technology, the security and surveillance industry doesn't seem to follow suit. In a world of 1080p and 4K videos, we still see grainy, monochromatic, and blurry videos.

Even with 4K devices, businesses do not see the advantages of a security systems upgrade. And if you're wondering why, Reddit might just have the answers for you.

User MilesyART asked the community why people continue to use CCTV cameras that take low-quality videos despite having access to advanced yet affordable technology. And redditors responded with interesting answers.

In a world full of digital cameras, it's surprising that CCTVs still produce low-quality footage.

The reason behind the question

The quick answer is that high-quality footage will require tons of storage.

A redditor with a follow-up question

The average space a 4K video takes.

There will always be a compromise.

If it ain't broke, don't fix it.

It's not necessarily a good business decision because of the price to pay.

The reason why businesses won't bother.

An insider reveals the truth: customers won't pay for the upgrade.

Sad but true.

It makes you wonder what the purpose of CCTVs are in different establishments.

The size of the location matters. In other words, bigger locations can't handle high-quality footage, while small ones can.

But this redditor doesn't agree with the statement above.

Imagine the file size of a 24-hour footage in high quality.

Businesses consider it a deterrent.

The summary of the reasons in numbered points.

Businesses need a good reason to upgrade. Without it, it's just a waste of money.

The cons far outweigh the pros.

Other businesses use it for insurance purposes.

Without proof from the CCTV, businesses can't claim their insurance.

Businesses won't bother upgrading even if their equipment is already obsolete.

A quick answer

The storage space a 24-hour 4K footage requires.

You also have to remember that the function of video cameras and phones differs from security cameras.

Think about it. We don't really need to see the facial expressions of the people viewed on CCTV shots.

Seeing the actions of the criminal is the main purpose of a CCTV camera. On the other hand, we need the details captured by smartphones and other photo and video devices.

The mere presence of a security camera is enough to discourage robbers from pursuing their evil deeds. Generally speaking, these cameras have loads of other features that serve the purpose of the user.