Are PTZ cameras any good? If you’ve been considering PTZ cameras for live-streaming or for security, you may be wondering whether they’re worth the investment. We’re here to help. As PTZ camera experts, we know that these cameras have many benefits, but they have some limitations, too. Let’s explore the pros and cons of PTZ cameras.
Benefits of PTZ Cameras
A pan-tilt-zoom camera offers many advantages. These include:
Remote Controls
One significant advantage of a PTZ camera is that it offers remote controls. These cameras can be controlled via joysticks, remote controls, PCs or even smartphones, depending on the model.
Remote control functionality means that you can have personnel working the camera behind the scenes. Presenters can also control the camera directly from a remote, which can be beneficial when livestreaming classes.
Flexible Setup
Finding the right setup can be challenging with traditional camera gear. PTZ cameras eliminate this obstacle and give you more flexibility in where you place your camera.
For example, you can mount your camera to:
- The ceiling
- Poles
- Desks
- The wall
The compact size of a PTZ camera allows you to place it in more discreet locations that are out of the way and less of a distraction.
Versatility and Quality
PTZ cameras are highly versatile and offer high-quality broadcasting power. At Honey Optics, not only do you get a PTZ camera with HDMI output, but you also get:
- 4K resolution
- Up to 20x zoom
- The ability to stream up to 4 outputs simultaneously
- Wide angle lens
- Live RTMP streaming
Power over Ethernet (PoE) means that you can control and power the camera with just a single cord.
PTZ cameras can be used for live-streaming, broadcasting, security and more – and they can do it all while delivering content in 4K.
Zoom Capabilities
Another big advantage of PTZ cameras is that they have optical zoom capabilities. Being able to zoom in on the action or a subject allows you to create more compelling and engaging content.
These are just some of the many benefits of PTZ camera systems. We cover some more advantages and explain how PTZ cameras work in the video below.
Limitations of PTZ Cameras
PTZ cameras have a lot of advantages, but they also have some limitations. Here are a few important considerations:
Gaps in Coverage
Are you using a PTZ camera for security purposes? The pan, tilt and zoom functions of these cameras make them a great option for security, but these features can also lead to gaps in coverage.
Why?
Because PTZ cameras cannot record areas they’re not looking at. If the camera is panned to the right and an incident is taking place to the left of the camera, the action may not be caught. In other words, intruders may be out of the camera’s field of view when it matters most.
Choose the Perfect PTZ Camera
Factors to Consider When Choosing PTZ Cameras
When choosing a PTZ camera, there are several things to consider to help you find the right model for your needs. These include:
Purpose
How will you be using the camera? Are you live streaming? Are you using it for security purposes?
With your purpose in mind consider:
- What type of visibility will you need – field of view, resolution, etc.
- Will you have someone working the camera at all times or when needed?
- What degree of pan and tilt functionality will you need?
Keep in mind that PTZ cameras aren’t ideal for recording video, so if that is your purpose, then this type of camera may not be right for you.
Location
Where will you be using your camera? Will you be using it indoors or outdoors? Will there be environmental hazards you have to consider, such as waterproofing?
Don’t forget to consider your setup, too. What kind of installation will be required? What about cabling?
These are all factors that need to be taken into consideration when purchasing a PTZ camera.
Are PTZ Cameras Any Good? Real-World Examples
When people ask us “is PTZ camera good for Live Streaming” or are “PTZ cameras any good,” our answer is a resounding yes.
PTZ cameras are being used in:
- Houses of worship
- Educational facilities for distance learning
- Broadcast TV
- Corporate training and meetings
- Live events, like theater shows and concerts
- Sports arenas
Summary
Are PTZ cameras any good? Yes! If you’re live streaming or broadcasting, then a PTZ camera will give you more flexibility in your setup and allow you to deliver professional-quality video content with ease.