Understand the pixel count
Megapixels describe the approximate number of pixels in an image. An 8MP image contains more pixels than a 4MP image, but that does not automatically mean a person or number plate will be identifiable in every view.
Distance and lens choice
A wide scene spreads pixels over a larger area. A lens aimed at a smaller, relevant area may produce more useful detail than a higher-resolution camera set very wide.
Compare night-time footage
Sensor, lens, lighting, movement and image processing all influence low-light results. Ask to assess recorded footage in conditions relevant to your property rather than choosing from resolution alone.
Allow for recording requirements
Higher resolution can need more network bandwidth and storage, depending on bitrate, frame rate and compression. Camera and recorder compatibility should be checked together.
Make it specific to your property
Choose the right camera system with Borders CCTV. We serve towns and rural properties across the Scottish Borders. A conversation about your site is the next step towards a useful specification.
Further reading
Official and manufacturer sources checked 3 October 2026. This is general information, not advice on a particular legal case or property.