Thinking about adding CCTV to your home or business? The first question on most people’s minds is the price tag. It’s not just the camera itself – it’s wiring, mounting, storage and monitoring that add up. This guide breaks down the real costs so you can plan a budget that works for you.
Cheap indoor cameras can start as low as £30‑£50. They usually offer 720p resolution, basic motion alerts and a free app. Mid‑range models sit around £80‑£150 and give you 1080p video, night vision, and local storage on a microSD card. If you want high‑definition 4K, weather‑proof housings, and advanced AI features like facial recognition, expect to pay £200‑£400 per unit.
Remember that buying a few cheap cameras often ends up costing more than a smaller set of quality units. Low‑quality gear can break early, need frequent replacements, and may miss critical footage.
Do‑it‑yourself installation can save you £100‑£300 compared with a professional service. DIY kits come with mounting brackets and step‑by‑step guides, and most homeowners can finish the job in a weekend. If you’re not comfortable pulling cables or drilling into walls, a certified installer will charge £80‑£150 per camera for labour, plus any necessary conduit work.
Beyond the upfront hardware and installation, think about storage and monitoring. Cloud storage plans range from £5‑£15 per month for basic packages to £30‑£50 for high‑resolution, long‑term archives. Some providers bundle monitoring with the camera purchase; others charge a separate £10‑£20 monthly fee for 24/7 response.
Don’t forget the power source. Battery‑powered cameras can run for months, but you’ll need to replace or recharge them, which adds a small recurring cost. Wired cameras need a stable power line, and a backup UPS can set you back another £50‑£100.
Here’s a quick snapshot of typical budgets:
These numbers help you compare options without getting lost in vague "price ranges".
Finally, ask any installer for a detailed quote that separates hardware, labour, and ongoing services. A clear breakdown makes it easy to spot hidden fees and negotiate where you can.
Whether you’re a homeowner looking for peace of mind or a business needing robust coverage, knowing the real cost of CCTV lets you make an informed choice. Use this guide as a checklist, compare a few quotes, and you’ll end up with a system that fits both your security needs and your wallet.
CCTV cameras are a popular choice for enhancing security, but understanding their costs can be tricky. This article dives into the factors affecting the price of CCTV cameras and installation. We'll explore different types of cameras, additional expenses like installation and maintenance, and share some tips to get the best deal. Whether you're securing your home or business, having clear insights into costs is essential.
