Security cameras are sold as 1080p, 2K, 4K and now 12MP. Those numbers describe how many pixels each frame holds, and more pixels give you more detail when you zoom into a recording. They also use more storage. This guide helps you choose the resolution that fits where the camera will go.
The short answer
Choose 4K for outdoor areas where you may need to zoom into recorded video to see faces or details. 2K is plenty for doors, rooms and small yards. 1080p works for entrances and garages on a budget. Match the camera to a recorder that supports its resolution.
Resolution at a glance
| Name | Megapixels | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| 1080p (Full HD) | 2MP, about 2.1 million pixels | Entrances, garages, porches and yards where you want dependable coverage at a lower cost |
| 2K | 3MP or 4MP, depending on the model | Indoor rooms, doorbells, small yards and everyday outdoor coverage |
| 4K | 8MP, about 8.3 million pixels | Driveways, yards and wide views where you may zoom into recordings |
| 4K+ (12MP) | 12MP, 50% more pixels than 4K according to Lorex | Large areas and situations where fine detail matters most |
What else affects picture quality
- Field of view. A wider view spreads the same pixels over a bigger scene, so each person or object gets fewer of them.
- Distance. The farther away the subject, the more resolution you need to capture useful detail.
- Night performance. Look for Color Night Vision or smart lighting if the area is dark after sunset.
- Recorder support. The recorder must support the camera’s resolution and type. For example, the Connect T1 1080p analog camera is designed for Lorex RD Series DVRs, and IP cameras need an NVR.
Higher resolution generally uses more storage, so size your drive accordingly. Our storage guide shows how.
Lorex picks by resolution
1080p
Wired analog 1080p turret with Color Night Vision and an IP66 weatherproof design. Designed for Lorex RD Series DVRs, with a 60 ft BNC/DC cable and power adapter included.
View product ➜2K
Crisp 2K video with color night vision for a bedroom, entry or home office. Indoor use only.
View product ➜
2K video with HDR and Color Night Vision, with a pre-installed 32GB microSD card.
View product ➜4K
4K (8MP) video with a 108 degree view and Color Night Vision, in an IP67 weatherproof housing.
View product ➜4K+ (12MP)
Lorex’s first 4K+ camera, with a 12MP sensor that captures 50% more pixels than 4K and an all-metal IP67 exterior.
View product ➜Frequently asked questions
Is 4K worth it over 2K?
For wide outdoor views where you may need to zoom into a recording, yes. For a front door or a single room, 2K is usually plenty.
Is 12MP better than 4K?
It has 50% more pixels, so it can capture finer detail, especially over large areas. It also needs a compatible recorder and more storage.
Do I need a new recorder for a higher resolution camera?
Check compatibility first. The recorder must support the camera’s resolution, and analog and IP cameras need the matching recorder type.
Does higher resolution use more internet or storage?
Generally yes. Higher resolution video produces larger files, so plan storage and your network accordingly.
Shop by resolution
Browse cameras and complete systems.
Outdoor wired cameras ➜Indoor Wi-Fi cameras ➜Doorbell cameras ➜Complete systems ➜Keep reading
- How Much Storage Do Security Cameras Need? A Simple Way to Estimate
- Wired vs Wi-Fi Security Cameras: Which Is Right for Your Home?
- How Many Security Cameras Does a House Need?
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