Body Worn-cameras vs CCTV cameras- Similarities & Differences

Technology has come a long way. Today, it influences and improves almost all aspects of our society. Security is no exception, and with good reason too.

Crime has always been prevalent and has continued to rise in the past decade.

Countermeasures like CCTV cameras and Body-worn cameras (BWC) came into existence in response to the spike in crime rate. Both offer concrete evidence which helps determine the victim, the perpetrator and the nature of the crime.

Let’s delve deeper into what they are along with the similarities and differences between the two.

CCTV Camera

The Closed-circuit television camera is a system used for surveillance and video recording. It uses an in-built camera to record evidence that can be viewed and stored in a variety of storage mediums. While old CCTV cameras captured video in black and white, the new ones record colour videos. They also have other useful features like zooming into a specific area and tracking faces.

General uses:

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• Maintaining security within a perimeter
• Obtaining & maintaining visual records 
• Monitoring traffic in an area
• Verifying acts of vandalism 

Body-worn Camera

The body-worn camera is a compact device used for gathering audio and video-based evidence. Its camera can take still pictures & record audio and video. It is a role-specific device that is attached to the user via a security vest, harness, or Clip to reduce any hindrance while working. BWCs have successfully been implemented among police, security companies, event management companies and individuals to gather tamper-proof data.

General uses:

• Capturing audio-video proof of any incident
• Protecting workers/staff against abuse or accusations
• Gather proof while giving healthcare services
• Collecting vital evidence at close range

Similarities between CCTV & BWC

• Surveillance

  Video recording is the primary similarity between these two which makes both excellent options for surveillance.

• Deters Aggression

  Both CCTV cameras and body-worn cameras help in deterring aggression by letting people know they are being recorded.

It is noted that the fact that anything they do will be recorded on camera prompts people to take a step back and think about their actions before acting on them

Differences between CCTV & BWC

• Recording

  While both record video, CCTV cameras only record the visual aspect. Body-worn cameras take it up a notch by capturing audio to support the video evidence. This gives a more holistic view of the incident.

• Perspective

  CCTV cameras are mounted in one place. Depending on the model, some offer limited movement to cover a few more angles, but ultimately offer a set area that they can scan. BWCs offer the perspective of the user, hence, there are no limitations on the angle or area in which they can be used in. 

Considering the benefits and shortcomings, the best way to fully secure an area is by using a combination of both.
Guard Patrol Products provide a range body-worn cameras solutions offering features such as full HD recording with a 140-degree wide-angle lens, night vision, up to 128GB storage, pre and post recording and long battery life. Ensuring you have the facilities at hand to gather the vital evidence you need.   Contact Us to know more about our body-worn camera or call us on 0800 817 4259.