Whats The Difference Between Dome and Bullet Security Cameras?

February 21st, 2022



If you have a business in Chico, CA, one of the things you always need to implement is good security. A good security system in place can mean the difference between crime prevention and easier investigation, or theft with no way to determine who did it and prosecute them.

Security cameras can play an essential role in the protection of your business and property in Chico, CA, but which one is the right one for you? There are a few different choices for security camera implementation, and it’s important to find the right one for the right job. Dome or bullet cameras are two of your choices, and we’ll explain what they can do for you.

The Dome Camera

The dome camera is a popular choice indoors, especially in retail settings. The reason this camera gets its name is that it is protected within a transparent dome-like structure that allows the small camera inside to see out. Depending on the type of dome used, the camera may or may not be seen by visitors, though, of course, the camera itself has a clear, unobstructed view of its surroundings.

Dome cameras, despite their smaller appearance, and confinement to a dome, can be built with a variety of different functions, including infra-red, so they can see even when the lights are out. They can also be built with PTZ, or pan-tilt-zoom functions, meaning someone can remotely control them and direct them to areas of interest.

The Bullet Camera

This is the larger, traditional security camera that most people see outside buildings, in stairwells, and other areas. This camera gets its name due to its long shape, though in most cases, it more accurately resembles a shotgun shell than a traditional bullet in a handgun.

Bullet cameras can have all the functionality of dome cameras. They can be equipped with infra-red to see in the darkness. They can also have PTZ functions built in so that people who want to maneuver a camera to get a closer look at something and increase the field of view can do so. Like dome cameras, they can also be wired or wireless, depending on what you need.

The Big Difference

So when would you use a bullet camera and when would you use a dome camera? This depends largely on placement. Bullet cameras are bigger, bulkier, and more durable. They are built to resist the elements, specifically being outdoors where it may rain, the sun may shine, or winter and freezing temperatures set in.

Dome cameras are not so well equipped to endure the rigors of outdoor surveillance, which is one of the reasons why they can sometimes be much cheaper. Because they are built to be installed in ceilings, and not touched or interfered with by anybody in a controlled climate, they can afford to be built more cheaply and more delicately.

Ultimately, both the bullet and the dome camera can be excellent security devices for any business here in Chico, CA. It all depends on which situation you have a security need for. If you’d like to know more contact us and let us help you find the right camera for your security concern.

What Our Customers Say

"I had the Alibi system installed several years ago. It has functioned flawlessly. The image quality is exellent both night and day and in all weather conditions. I particularly like the replay (which can be set at various speeds) and zoom functions of the system. Tech support from Crimefreeliving has been excellent. I have received quick responses to questions, and timely home visits — as when I changed IP carriers and my Alibi system needed to be reset. I have recommended Crimefreeliving to several friends."

Rich

"As a small business owner here in Chico we definitely saw the need for video surveillance. After expressing our needs and concerns Tim did an excellent job getting us set up with the set up with the appropriate equipment. He really took the time to address our concerns in a very friendly, professional and knowledgeable manner. I highly recommend Tim for all of your business and residential video surveillance needs."

Ron H., Owner/Auto Doctor

"I have to say I love having my security cameras at my home. Tim Truby did a wonderful job of installing the five cameras. He is very neat and cleaned everything up after the installation. He explained to me how to operate the monitor, my phone and IPad. However, I have had to call Tim because I'm not tech savvy and forget what he has told me. He usually just helps me over the phone and then all is well. I'm 80 years old and enjoy the comfort of knowing I have these security cameras."

Gloria

"Tim Truby designed and installed a 32 camera system for us here at the Butte County Mosquito and Vector Control District. We had received several other quotes from security system vendors, but Tim’s quote was the least expensive. Tim also installed the system quickly and has always been available when we needed him. We are very happy with our security camera system and we can highly recommend Tim Truby for all of your surveillance system needs."

D. Weseman, Butte County Mosquito and Vector Control District

Crime Free Living updated our old video system with a new 16 Channel HD Alibi Video Security System. The old system had been added onto by different installers which resulted in a cabling mess. There were cables that worked and cables that went nowhere. It was a mess. Tim sorted it all out and installed cameras that are very clear. He also installed a monitor for our cashiers to watch hidden areas, a monitor to watch the entry door, and a monitor that allows employees to watch the outside parking and gas pump area. All work was done on time and very professional! Will always recommend Tim and Crime Free Living.

S. AM PM Chico Arco Station

"I had Tim install an Alibi Video Security System at my residence and a couple business locations. The remote view option is invaluable to absentee owners or anyone who travels a lot. The clarity and quality of the cameras have allowed for viewing employee theft. The evidence provided from the HD video cameras was fantastic! Tim was professional and provided extra value from his law enforcement background."

J. Folsom Arco Station

"Tim, I want to thank you again for doing such a fantastic job on installing a wireless IP security camera system at our dream home. The extra time that you took to hide wires, and install a clean, professional system is much appreciated. I still can’t believe the clarity, quality, and ease of use of this new system. I wished that I would have met you before our original inferior system was installed by another company. Now, whether I am at home, or monitoring the system from around the world, I know that my home and family are safe and sound."

John M.

"In April of 2017, my husband and I made a phone call to Crime Free Living that turned out to be a smart and wise decision. Amazingly, in just a few hours, Tim installed four Dome Security Cameras, weatherproof enclosures, and hooked up into our home a 23" Full HD Widescreen Security Monitor. Even more than his professional expertise was the time spent with us in making sure that this system was working correctly and properly installed on our phones so that anywhere in our travels we can monitor our new home in Magalia."

Tieka and Don S.

"I have been using Crime Free Living for the last couple years ar work and at home and I really recommend this product. Tim is a very good service provider. If he can't figure it out, he's got good tech support with the system that he offers."

Gary D.

"I have known Tim for over 10 years. To date, Time with Crime Free Living has installed two separate surveillance systems for my company. With each system, Tim has listened to my needs and custom dsigned surveillance systems for my specific needs and within my budget. The equipment used is always state of the art, the workmanship is top notch, and Tim is the example of trustworthy. I would recommend him for any job."

Steve D., Down Range Indoor Training Center

images Certifications & Training

With 16 years of experience in law enforcement, Tim Truby, CEO, is fully certified in video surveillance and training.

  • Certified Advanced Crime Prevention Specialist
  • Academy Instructor Certification
  • California POST Certification in Specialized Surveillance Equipment
  • California POST Certification in Basic Crime Prevention
    • Advanced Crime Prevention through Environmental Design
    • Certified Alibi Security Dealer
    • Enhanced Risk and Threat Assessment (FEMA)
    • Incident Command System (100 & 200)
    • Certified Cognitech Video Forensic Investigator
    • Neighborhood Watch Toolkit Trainer
    • Computer Crimes/Investigations
    • Domestic Crisis for Crisis Negotiators
    Call (530) 327-7268