Number and type of cameras, recording days, cable length, the recorder and site complexity.
“How much does it cost to install cameras?” is the question we hear most often. The honest answer isn’t a single number: two sites that look similar can need completely different systems. Here are the factors that actually determine the price.
1. Number and type of cameras
- Quantity — how many areas need coverage: entrance, till, yard, parking, storage;
- Type — IP camera or analog, bullet (outdoor) or dome (indoor), rotating (PTZ) models;
- Wireless options — Wi-Fi cameras or Solar + 4G cameras where cabling or power is hard to run;
- Features — color night vision, people and vehicle detection, outdoor protection rating (IP66/IP67).
2. Resolution and recording days
The higher the resolution and the more days recordings must be kept, the larger the recorder’s disk needs to be. Storage is a significant part of the price.
A modern codec (e.g. H.265) and motion-only recording save space — so the same disk holds more days.
3. The recorder
An NVR is chosen by number of channels (how many cameras it can take) and number of disk bays. If you plan to add cameras later, it’s better to choose a recorder with spare capacity — that avoids an expensive replacement.
4. Cabling and installation complexity
This is often the biggest variable:
- Cable length — how many meters from each camera to the recorder;
- Surface or concealed — cable trunking, inside walls or ceilings;
- Outdoor mounting — poles, tall walls, work at height;
- PoE switches — power and data over one cable; how many you need depends on camera placement.
5. Additional components
- UPS — so the system keeps running during a power cut;
- Viewing from your phone — setting up secure remote access;
- Network preparation — for example, a separate network for cameras.
6. Existing infrastructure
If the site already has cabling, a recorder or a network, part of it may be reusable — which changes the price significantly. We assess this from a site visit or photos.
💡 For a rough estimate: our CCTV calculator shows how many recorder channels and how much storage you’ll need based on the number of cameras, resolution and recording days. For an exact quote, use the request form.
Why we don’t quote a “price per camera”
The camera itself can be a small part of the total: cabling, the recorder, storage and installation complexity often determine the cost. That’s why we first define what the site needs, and then prepare an exact quote.