2K Security Cameras
2K security cameras deliver 3MP video — enough to read a numberplate at the end of a driveway. KeldCo Glass Eye streams 2K live, replays from microSD, and costs $149 with no monthly fee.
3 megapixels. Read the plate.
2K is 1440p — about 2.5x the pixels of 1080p Full HD. On a security camera, that's the difference between "I can see a car" and "I can read the plate." Glass Eye's 2K sensor records at 3MP, which is enough to zoom in on footage after the fact and still see what matters.
Buying guideWhat to look for in a 2K security camera
- Bitrate matters as much as resolution. A 2K camera at 1Mbps looks worse than a 1080p camera at 3Mbps. Look for 2Mbps+ bitrate on the main stream.
- Storage impact. 2K at 24/7 uses about 30GB a day. A 256GB microSD holds roughly 8 days of continuous footage.
- Bandwidth. Streaming 2K live needs around 3Mbps upload from your home. Most NBN plans handle this.
- Zoom quality. Digital zoom on 2K is usable up to about 3x before it goes mushy. Beyond that, point the camera closer.
- HDR for mixed light. 2K without HDR blows out highlights. A good sensor handles sun and shade in one frame.
- Night performance. Resolution doesn't help in the dark. 2K cameras need good low-light sensors to earn their price.
2K security camera questions
Is 2K really better than 1080p?
Yes — about 2.5x more pixels. You see fine detail and can zoom further before footage goes pixelated. For number plates and faces at distance, 2K is the sensible minimum.
How much storage do I need for 2K 24/7?
About 30GB per day. 128GB microSD holds roughly 4 days, 256GB holds 8 days, 512GB holds about 16 days.
Do I need special internet for 2K streaming?
You need around 3Mbps upload per live stream. Most NBN plans in Australia provide at least 5Mbps upload, so one or two 2K cameras is fine.
Is 2K enough, or should I get 4K?
For most homes, 2K is the right balance. 4K needs 4x the storage and bandwidth for marginal detail gain at residential distances. 4K makes sense for wide property monitoring with distant subjects.
Can I zoom in on 2K footage?
Yes, up to about 3x digital zoom before it goes soft. Beyond that, point the camera closer to what matters.
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