Fixed 5MP security cameras use a set viewing angle, while varifocal models allow installers to adjust the lens for a wider or narrower field of view, often during installation. Turret, dome, and bullet describe housing styles, with turret cameras supporting flexible aiming, dome cameras offering a low-profile enclosure, and bullet cameras using a more directional form factor; pan-tilt-zoom cameras add remote movement and optical zoom for changing the viewing area.

5MP security cameras are available with fixed lenses, such as 2.8 mm, 3.6 mm, 4 mm, and 6 mm, as well as varifocal lenses ranging from about 2.7 to 13.5 mm, 2.8 to 12 mm, or 6 to 50 mm. Fixed lenses provide a set field of view, while varifocal lenses let installers adjust from a wider view to a narrower, more zoomed-in view, and select cameras also provide 2x optical zoom.

When selecting 5MP security cameras, compare infrared night vision, low-light image technology, and whether the camera provides color video in very dim conditions or switches to black and white. Also consider supplemental white-light illumination and wide dynamic range (WDR) for scenes with bright and dark areas, along with the camera’s stated night vision range.

5MP IP security cameras connect to a local network through Ethernet, allowing a network video recorder or video management system to receive and record their video streams. Many models support ONVIF for integration with open-platform systems, while Power over Ethernet (PoE) networks can carry data and power over one cable when paired with a compatible PoE switch, injector, or NVR port.