Whenever customers want to install security cameras, they always ask me the same questions: “Do I need a monitor for my security cameras?” and “What kind of monitor should I use?”
Well, the truth is, these days, you don’t really need a monitor for your security cameras because you can easily view the camera feeds right from your smartphone. However, if you have a control room with security staff monitoring the cameras, then having a monitor is definitely a good idea. It makes it much easier for them to watch the live camera feeds right from their desks.
In this article, I’ll share some tips on how to choose the right monitor for your security cameras, based on my experience as a security camera technician.
What Is a Security Camera Monitor?
A security camera monitor is simply a screen used to display live video feeds from your installed security cameras.
Using a monitor also gives you a bigger screen, making it easier to see the camera footage clearly.
These monitors are usually placed in server rooms, control rooms, or security posts, making it easier for security staff to monitor all their security cameras in one place. They also make it much easier to review recorded footage compared to using a smartphone.
Choose a Security Camera Monitor Based on Camera Resolution
Each monitor is capable of displaying different video resolutions.
| Monitor Size | Optimal Resolution |
|---|---|
| 24 inch | 1080p / 1440p |
| 27 inch | 1440p / 4K |
| 32 inch | 1440p / 4K |
| 42+ inch | 4K |
The table above shows different monitor sizes and the resolutions they can display. For example, if you have a 4K security camera but use a 24-inch monitor with a 1080p resolution, the video will only be displayed in 1080p.
This is why some customers ask me why their 4K security camera footage doesn’t look as sharp as they expected on a 24-inch monitor. The problem isn’t necessarily the camera itself, but rather the monitor’s resolution, which limits the level of detail you can see on the screen.
Choose a Security Camera Monitor Based on the Type of Panel Used
Monitors use panels to display video footage from your security cameras. There are several types of panel technologies available, but the most common ones are LCD panels, including TN, VA, and IPS. You can also find non-LCD options, such as OLED panels.
Let’s take a closer look at the three most common LCD panel types and what makes each of them different.
1. Twisted Nematic (TN)
TN panels are one of the most affordable monitor options. They offer fast response times and high refresh rates, which can be useful when monitoring fast-moving objects. However, they have some drawbacks, including less accurate colors and narrow viewing angles.
This means the picture may look different when viewed from the side rather than straight on.
2. In-Plane Switching (IPS)
IPS panels offer better color accuracy and wider viewing angles than TN panels.
This makes them a great choice for security camera monitoring, especially when multiple people need to view the footage from different positions. They also provide more consistent image quality, even when you’re not sitting directly in front of the screen.
3. Vertical Alignment (VA)
VA panels offer a good balance between TN and IPS panels.
They typically provide higher contrast ratios and deeper blacks than IPS panels, making it easier to see details in dark areas of your security camera footage. They also have wider viewing angles than TN panels. However, their response times are generally slower than those of TN panels, which may make them less suitable for displaying fast-moving objects.
Choosing a Monitor Based on Response Time
Response time refers to how quickly a pixel can change from one color to another, often measured by switching between black and white.
It’s measured in milliseconds (ms).
Generally, the lower the response time, the faster the pixels can change, resulting in smoother visuals, especially when displaying fast-moving objects. A monitor with a slower response time may show more noticeable ghosting, where moving objects leave behind faint trails. This can make images and text look blurry, especially when there’s a lot of movement on the screen.
LED-backlit monitors typically have a lifespan of around 100,000 hours, while LCD monitors with other types of backlighting generally last between 50,000 and 100,000 hours. However, the actual lifespan can vary depending on the monitor’s quality, usage, and operating conditions.
If you plan to run your monitor 24/7, a lifespan of 50,000 hours works out to about 5.7 years, while 100,000 hours equals roughly 11.4 years. Keep this in mind when choosing a monitor for your security camera system, especially if you need it running around the clock. Of course, the actual lifespan will depend on the monitor’s quality, usage, and operating conditions.
Choosing a Monitor Based on the Monitor Brand
Choosing a reputable brand is also important when selecting a monitor for your CCTV system. To help you find the right one, here are four well-reviewed monitor brands worth considering:
1. Hikvision
Hikvision is best known for its video surveillance equipment, including security cameras and NVR systems.
Although monitors aren’t its main focus, the company also offers a range of display solutions designed for security monitoring. These monitors are a good option if you’re looking for a display that works well with your Hikvision cameras and NVR system.
2. Dahua
Dahua is another well-known security camera manufacturer that also offers monitors designed for surveillance systems.
Since Dahua develops both cameras and display solutions, its monitors can be a good match for your Dahua security cameras. If you’re using a Dahua CCTV system, choosing a Dahua monitor is worth considering for a compatible and reliable setup.
3. Dell
Dell is a well-known brand when it comes to computer monitors, offering a wide range of options to suit different needs and budgets. You can find monitors in sizes starting at 24 inches, with resolutions ranging from 1080p to 4K and various features to choose from. If you’re looking for a reliable computer monitor for your security camera system, Dell is definitely a brand worth considering.
4. LG
LG is another popular brand worth considering for your security camera system.
Many LG monitors use IPS panels, which offer accurate colors and wide viewing angles, making it easier to view camera footage from different positions. Like Samsung, LG offers a wide range of display options in different sizes, including standard LCD monitors, video wall displays, TV monitors, and computer monitors. This gives you plenty of options depending on your monitoring needs.
5. Samsung
Samsung offers a wide range of displays that can be used for security camera systems, including computer monitors, TVs, and professional video wall displays. Its monitors are known for their sharp images, good color reproduction, and high-resolution displays.
There are plenty of sizes to choose from, depending on your needs.
For example, 27- to 32-inch monitors are popular choices for computer setups, while larger displays of 32 inches or more can work well for CCTV monitoring. For professional surveillance systems, Samsung also offers larger displays, including models measuring 46 inches or more. With so many options available, you can choose a display that fits your monitoring setup and workspace.
What Is the Average Price of a Monitor for a Security Camera?
Of course, price is another important factor to consider when choosing a monitor for your security camera system. Prices can vary quite a bit depending on the type of monitor, its size, resolution, and features. So, it’s important to find one that fits both your monitoring needs and your budget.
1. 24-inch Computer Monitor
A 24-inch monitor typically costs between $70 and $200.
Larger monitors generally cost more, and features like higher resolution can also increase the price. However, before buying a new one, check if you already have an extra monitor at home or in your office. If it’s compatible with your security camera system, reusing it can be a great way to save money.
2. 32-inch TV
A 32-inch monitor, for example, typically costs between $90 and $300.
However, if you already have a TV at home, you might not need to buy a new monitor just to view your security camera footage. As long as your TV is compatible with your CCTV system, you can use it as a display and save some money.
Below is an example of the 32-inch monitor I use with my security camera system.
3. 22-inch Professional Monitor
For the individual LCD monitor, 22 inches will cost at least $100. If you are looking for a high-end screen, its price will be double. As for splicing screen, 55 inches per device runs between $200 and $500.
The price depends on resolution, refresh rate, and other factors as well.
How to Connect an NVR and DVR to a Security Camera Monitor?
Most NVRs and DVRs typically come with three types of video output ports.
- HDMI
- VGA
- RCA
The most commonly used video outputs today are HDMI and VGA. RCA connections are much less common nowadays, although you may still come across them in certain situations, especially when dealing with older equipment.
So, all you need to do is choose the connection that works best for your monitor and CCTV system.
If you’re using an older monitor that doesn’t have an HDMI input, you can connect it to your DVR or NVR using the VGA output instead. However, if your monitor supports both HDMI and VGA, that’s even better because you’ll have more connection options. In general, HDMI is the better choice because it carries digital video signals and supports high-definition resolutions, giving you a sharper picture when your monitor supports it. VGA, on the other hand, uses analog signals, so the image may not look as sharp, especially at higher resolutions.
One issue you might encounter is a “D-Sub Out of Range” error. This usually happens when your monitor doesn’t support the resolution or refresh rate coming from your DVR or NVR. To fix this, try lowering the output resolution on your DVR or NVR to a setting that your monitor supports.
Conclusion
These days, most security cameras can be viewed directly from your smartphone using a dedicated app. That’s why, if you’re using security cameras at home, having a separate monitor isn’t really necessary.
However, some people prefer watching their camera footage on a bigger screen, and that’s where a monitor comes in handy. The good news is that you don’t necessarily have to buy a new one. You can use the TV you already have at home as a display for your security cameras, as long as it’s compatible with your CCTV system. That said, here’s my advice: if you’re using a regular TV, try not to leave it running 24/7. Most consumer TVs aren’t specifically designed for continuous operation, unlike monitors built for professional surveillance systems. If you need a display that runs around the clock, a monitor designed for CCTV use would be a better choice.
For the best viewing experience, choose a monitor resolution that matches the resolution of your security cameras.
I hope you found this article helpful. Thanks for taking the time to read it!