What Does 2K Video Resolution Mean?
Find out what counts as a “good” resolution for a security camera.
Find out what counts as a “good” resolution for a security camera.
|
What does video resolution actually mean? |
Video resolution refers to the number of horizontal pixels that can fit into a screen. Pixels (short for picture units) are the smallest element of a digital image that designers can manipulate. Most digital images you’ll see on a screen, including your security camera, are made up of pixels. The more pixels a digital image can accommodate, the more detailed the photo will be. Lower resolution screens can have blurry or less defined pictures. Take a look at the examples below. |
In the image above the higher resolution shows the image in high detail — you clearly see the patterns on the blanket and the texture of the cat’s coat. The lower resolution image is muddy and shapes blend together.
In the context of security cameras, details like the logo on someone’s shirt or the color of a vehicle are important, which is why more pixels are better for security.
What are the standard video resolutions |
Video screen resolutions are usually counted in multiples of two (2K, 4K, 8K). For video, there are special names for different resolutions. 1080p is commonly known as “full-screen.” The other most common video resolutions for security cameras are 2K and 4K. |
Is 2K video resolution enough? |
2K video resolution offers a crisp picture, with plenty of detail for most applications (keeping an eye on your front door, pets, or family). No guessing if the object on your porch is a packet from Amazon or a pile of old leaves blown in from the yard. Most people also find it easy to read lettering (for example a license plate number or a company logo on a van) and clearly see people’s faces. 2K video resolution is also popular because it allows device manufacturers to keep prices affordable without sacrificing image quality. Higher resolution cameras, like the Arlo Ultra Wireless 4K camera do offer slightly more realistic “as-if-you’re-there” camera feeds, which may be a better option for consumers in need of a premium product. |
The Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro XL offer 2K resolution with a wide 160° Field of View, Color Night Vision, 2-Way Audio and AI-enhanced motion and detection alerts to help you keep your family safe.
A great choice for a starter security camera, the Arlo Essential Camera offers many of the same features as Arlo Pro with a slightly smaller Field of View (130°), perfect for providing coverage for a smaller yard or porch.
The Arlo Video Doorbell also comes in crisp 2K resolution and shares many features with Arlo’s cameras, including 2-Way Audio, Integrated Siren and Night Vision, but is meant to keep an eye on your front door.
All Arlo cameras come with a free trial of the Arlo Secure plan, which offers 60 day cloud storage, Smart Detection, Advanced Audio Detection, and AI-powered Person and Vehicle Recognition.
While a 2K resolution is usually more than enough to get a crisp image, 4K home security cameras are becoming more common. That means an even clearer video footage often with better contrast. The Arlo Ultra cameras offer 4K video with HDR (high dynamic range) along with enhanced Color Night Vision.
AI technology can help you get the most out of any video resolution your camera can render. For example, Arlo Intelligence comes with Known Person and Vehicle Recognition, allowing you to instantly figure out who’s at the front door, even when you’re miles away. Similarly, Animal and Package Detection, tell you when a critter or a delivery appear in the camera feed, without having to review footage yourself. Learn more about Arlo Intelligence.
Yes, most quality security cameras offer 2K video resolution. 2K provides you with plenty of detail to see colors, faces, logos, and license plates.
Pixels are the smallest physical point on a display. If you zoom in really close on your phone or monitor, you’ll see thousands of tiny dots or squares. Each one of these is a pixel. Resolution refers to the total number of pixels on your screen.
No, it’s not likely that a 2K resolution will strain your bandwidth if you have decent internet connectivity. But any camera connected to the internet will struggle if you are in a remote area with limited Wi-Fi or data. In this case, an LTE camera may be a better choice.
