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Wired vs. Wireless CCTV Cameras: Which Is Right for You?

  • Writer: Eric yong
    Eric yong
  • Apr 23
  • 2 min read

Feature

Wired CCTV

Wireless CCTV

Power

Continuous via PoE or separate DC adapter

Battery-powered or mains + Wi-Fi

Video Transmission

Ethernet/coax—immune to interference

Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz / 5 GHz) or 4G LTE

Installation

Requires cabling runs and drilling

Quick, minimal wiring

Reliability

Stable; unaffected by network congestion

May drop frames if Wi-Fi signal weak

Maintenance

Little once installed

Battery swaps/charging every 3–12 months

Suitable Range

Up to 100 m (with PoE extenders)

Within Wi-Fi coverage or cellular zone

When Wired CCTV Makes Sense

  • Large or Multi-Storey Premises – One PoE switch can power and record dozens of cameras without worrying about batteries.

  • Critical Recording Needs – Loss-less 4 K streams stored on an NVR; no compression to fit Wi-Fi bandwidth.

  • Harsh RF Conditions – Metal racks, thick concrete, or interference-prone factories.

  • Always-On Surveillance – 24/7 monitoring of cash counters or server rooms where downtime is unacceptable.

When Wireless CCTV Wins

  • Rental Properties – Avoids structural changes; reposition cameras without landlord approval.

  • Outbuildings & Remote Gates – Solar-powered 4 G LTE units secure farm sheds and perimeter zones without trenching cables.

  • Quick Deployment – Temporary events, pop-up kiosks, renovation sites.

  • Aesthetic Concerns – Heritage homes where visible conduits are discouraged.

Hybrid Strategies

  • Core Areas Wired, Perimeter Wireless – Use PoE domes inside and battery spotlights for fences.

  • Mesh Wi-Fi Repeaters – Extend 5 GHz coverage to garages; place cameras on AC mains to skip battery upkeep.

  • Edge Recording – Wireless cameras with SD cards store footage locally even if Wi-Fi drops.

Cost Considerations

  • Upfront – Wired: higher labour and cable costs; Wireless: higher per-unit camera price.

  • Long-Term – Wired: negligible upkeep; Wireless: battery replacements and possible data plans for 4 G units.

Need expert help designing a balanced system? Explore our complete CCTV setup service at Eyonic Security System.

About the author

Founded by Eric Yong, Eyonic Security System is a Sarawak-based company dedicated to protecting homes and businesses with reliable, tech-driven security solutions. With a background in engineering and a passion for practical, user-friendly systems, Eric built Eyonic to close the gap between outdated setups and modern safety needs.Connect with Eric Yong on Facebook

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