Dome Camera vs Bullet Camera: Which is Better for Your Security Needs?

June 2, 2025
7:43 am

When planning and deploying a security surveillance system, choosing the right type of camera is a crucial step. The two most common types of fixed surveillance cameras on the market are dome cameras and bullet cameras. While they differ in appearance, their unique design characteristics also determine the environments and security needs they are best suited for. In this article, we will explore the technical features, pros and cons of dome camera vs bullet camera, and provide guidance on how to make a smart choice based on different application scenarios.

1.What is Dome Camera?

A dome camera gets its name from its distinctive dome-shaped design. This type of infrared security camera typically includes the camera body, an integrated lens, a transparent or tinted dome cover, and a mounting base or bracket. The compact and all-in-one construction is one of its key features, giving dome cameras a sleek, low-profile appearance that blends well with building architecture and draws less attention.

Dome cameras are generally designed for monitoring fixed areas. While some advanced models offer limited pan, tilt, and zoom (PTZ) capabilities, the most common dome cameras have fixed direction and focal length. Their main design focus is to provide a discreet, aesthetically pleasing, and easy-to-install surveillance solution.

1)Advantages and Disadvantages of Dome Camera

The design of a dome camera offers several key advantages, along with a few limitations that users should consider.

Advantages:

Discreet and Aesthetic Design: Thanks to its low-profile dome shape, a dome camera blends seamlessly with interior décor and is less noticeable. Since the lens is enclosed within the dome, it’s difficult to determine the direction it’s pointing from the outside. This makes it ideal for discreet surveillance in environments like retail stores, helping to deter theft without alerting potential wrongdoers.
Wide Field of View: Dome cameras are often equipped with wide-angle lenses, allowing them to cover a broad horizontal and vertical area from a single mounting point. Some models come with manual or motorized zoom lenses, enabling users to adjust focal length to fit different monitoring needs.
Vandal-Resistant Construction: The dome housing provides solid physical protection for the camera. Many dome models are built to be vandal-proof, with high impact resistance ratings such as IK10. This makes them suitable for areas prone to tampering or vandalism, as the enclosed design prevents easy access or redirection of the lens.
Easy to Install: The integrated design of dome cameras makes installation relatively simple. They can be mounted on ceilings or walls and even embedded into surfaces for an enhanced aesthetic and lower visibility.

Disadvantages:

Limited Angle Adjustment After Installation: Once installed, adjusting the viewing angle of a dome camera may require repositioning the entire unit or bracket. This contrasts with bullet cameras, which can be more easily repositioned using their adjustable mounts. For flush-mounted dome cameras, any repositioning may also require repair work.
Possible IR Reflection at Night: Although dome cameras often feature infrared night vision, IR light can reflect off the inner surface of the dome in total darkness, creating glare or reducing image clarity.
Fixed Lens Limitation: Most dome cameras come with built-in, non-removable lenses. Changing the lens to adjust the focal length is typically difficult or not supported, limiting flexibility in certain applications.

2)Typical Applications of Dome Cameras

Thanks to their discreet appearance, aesthetic design, and wide-angle coverage, dome cameras are especially well-suited for the following environments:

Indoor Public Areas: Commonly installed in office lobbies, hotel hallways, hospitals, schools, shopping malls, and elevator cabins. These areas require cameras that integrate well with interior design while providing stable and comprehensive surveillance coverage. In confined spaces like elevators, dome cameras with wide-angle lenses, manual iris/focus options, strong anti-interference capability, and centralized power supply from the control room are typically preferred.
Locations with Interior Design Requirements: Environments that prioritize appearance—such as upscale commercial spaces or reception areas—benefit from the unobtrusive presence of dome cameras, which don’t disrupt the overall visual aesthetic.
Fixed, Wide-Angle Monitoring Zones: Ideal for spaces where large areas need to be monitored from a single vantage point using wide-angle lenses.
Relatively Safe Indoor Settings: Dome cameras are best used in areas with lower risks of vandalism or tampering, where physical security of the device is less of a concern compared to outdoor or high-risk environments.

3)Raythink Product Recommendation: FC125T Dual-Spectrum Turret Camera

FC125T Dual-Spectrum Turret Camera

The FC125T is a new type of dual-spectral dome camera that integrates infrared thermal imaging, temperature measurement, and HD visible light monitoring. It features an advanced passive infrared thermal imaging detector combined with industrial-grade temperature measurement and analysis tools, smoke and fire detection algorithms, and dual-spectral behavior analysis algorithms. Equipped with multiple alarm linkage functions, it truly achieves 24/7 security monitoring and fire warning. This product is widely applicable to scenarios such as gas stations, charging piles, substations, buildings and warehouses, and small-scale establishments.

4)Product Features and Advantages

12μm Pixel Size — Clear Imaging, Long Detection Range, Cost-Effective

As a leader in uncooled infrared technology, Raythink independently developed the world’s first thermal imaging detector chip with an ultra-small 12μm pixel size. The FC125T Dual-Spectrum Turret Camera is equipped with this 12μm detector chip, which outperforms the common 17μm detectors on the market—providing richer details and clearer images at the same sensor size.

Dual-Spectrum Imaging — Infrared & Visible Light for 24/7 Night Vision

The dual-spectrum thermal and visible light imaging overcomes the limitations of traditional visible-only cameras. It reveals details even in total darkness, enabling 24/7 all-weather surveillance. The infrared thermal lens also maintains reliable imaging in harsh conditions such as fog and haze, effectively compensating for visible light lens weaknesses.

High-Precision Temperature Measurement with Automatic High-Temperature Alarm

Unlike conventional dual-spectrum cameras, the FC125T supports precise temperature measurement ranging from -20°C to 550°C with industrial-grade accuracy. It meets stringent temperature monitoring requirements and features automatic high-temperature alarms that immediately alert users to abnormal heat, effectively preventing fires before they occur.

Built-In Behavior Analysis Algorithms for Smarter Monitoring

The FC125T integrates advanced intelligent analysis algorithms, including dual-spectrum line crossing, intrusion detection, AI-based thermal target classification, and intelligent fire point detection. These features provide smarter, more efficient security monitoring and significantly improve patrol effectiveness.

Proprietary Software Platform — Tailored to Your Needs

Raythink’s strong in-house software development team offers various software solutions for different deployment scales: standalone software for smaller setups and platform-based software for larger installations. Custom software development is also available to meet unique client requirements.

Robust Platform Integration and Compatibility

The product supports comprehensive NVR and VMS software, complies with standard protocols such as ONVIF and GB28181, and offers multiple SDK versions for secondary development. Additionally, cloud platforms provide standard API interfaces, ensuring extensive compatibility and flexible integration for diverse application scenarios.

2.What is Bullet Camera?

A bullet camera, also commonly known as a gun-style camera, gets its name from its cylindrical body and the usually narrower front end, resembling a gun barrel or bullet. It is one of the most easily recognizable camera types in the surveillance field. A bullet camera typically consists of the camera body, a lens, and an external mounting bracket, which is usually adjustable for flexible positioning.

The main design feature of a bullet camera is its prominent and noticeable presence. Although bullet cameras often look similar, there is a wide range of configurations and quality levels available on the market, spanning from low-end to high-end products.

1)Advantages and Disadvantages of Bullet Camera

The distinctive bullet camera shape brings several advantages as well as some inherent drawbacks.

Advantages:

Highly Visible and Deterrent: The prominent design of bullet cameras immediately signals that the area is under surveillance, providing a strong psychological deterrent. This makes them an ideal choice for outdoor or high-risk areas where preventing crime is a priority.
Suitable for Long-Distance Monitoring: Bullet cameras can be paired with various lenses, including long focal length lenses, making them perfect for monitoring distant targets. They can capture clear details such as license plates at parking lot entrances or pedestrians far away.
Easy Angle Adjustment After Installation: Typically mounted using adjustable ball joints or gimbal brackets, bullet cameras allow easy tilting and panning after installation, enabling flexible changes to the monitored area.
Better Night Vision Performance: Because bullet cameras lack an extra protective dome, infrared light isn’t blocked or reflected back, often resulting in clearer, glare-free night vision images.

Disadvantages:

Vulnerable to Damage and Tampering: The exposed body and lens of bullet cameras make them more susceptible to physical attacks and intentional interference, especially when installed at lower heights where they can be easily reached.
Less Concealed than Dome Cameras: The protruding design makes bullet cameras unsuitable for situations requiring discreet or covert surveillance

2)Typical Applications of Bullet Cameras

Thanks to their strong deterrent effect and long-distance monitoring capabilities, bullet cameras are commonly used in the following scenarios:

Outdoor Open Areas: Such as parking lots, roads, plazas, fences, building perimeters, industrial zones, and gas stations—places that require coverage of wide outdoor spaces or distant targets.
Areas Requiring Visible Surveillance to Deter Crime: High-crime neighborhoods, warehouse perimeters, factory entrances, and other locations where clear monitoring serves as a psychological deterrent.
Low-Light or Completely Dark Environments: When equipped with powerful infrared (IR) capabilities, bullet cameras are well-suited for nighttime surveillance.
Passages and Entry Points: For monitoring the movement of people or vehicles in and out.

3)Raythink Product Recommendation: FC225T/FC4T Series/FC460A

FC225T Dual-Spectrum Bullet Camera

The FC225T, featuring a thermal imaging sensor resolution of 256×192, is an advanced dual-spectrum bullet camera that integrates infrared thermal imaging, temperature measurement, and high-definition visible light monitoring in one device.

It incorporates a state-of-the-art passive infrared thermal detector combined with industrial-grade temperature analysis tools, smoke and fire detection algorithms, and dual-spectrum behavior analysis algorithms. Alongside multiple alarm linkage functions, the FC225T delivers true 24/7 security monitoring and fire warning capabilities.

This product is widely applicable for both indoor and outdoor monitoring scenarios, including perimeter protection, charging stations, warehouse equipment rooms, gas stations, and electrical power monitoring—offering comprehensive solutions for intelligent security and fire safety.

FC435T Dual-Spectrum Bullet Camera

The Dual-Spectrum Bullet Camera (FC4T series) is an advanced thermal imaging camera that integrates long-range monitoring, temperature measurement, and video service functions. Based on the resolution of the infrared sensor, it includes two models: FC435T (384×288) and FC465T (640×512). Equipped with a high-definition visible light camera and a cutting-edge infrared thermal detector, it enables dual-spectrum imaging to comprehensively capture scene details. This camera is ideal for a wide range of indoor and outdoor surveillance applications, such as perimeter security, warehouses, server rooms, EV charging stations, power and industrial temperature monitoring, making it well-suited for smart security and fire protection fields.

FC4T thermal bullet camera

The FC4T Thermal Bullet Camera (Single-Spectrum Series) is a new-generation thermal imaging device that combines long-range monitoring and infrared temperature measurement. Equipped with an advanced infrared thermal imaging detector and available with multiple focal length lens options, it is well-suited for a wide range of indoor and outdoor surveillance applications. These include perimeter security in industrial parks, warehouses, server rooms, EV charging stations, power temperature monitoring, and industrial temperature measurement, making it an ideal solution for smart security and fire protection needs.

FC460A Observation Thermal Bullet Camera

The FC460A Observation Thermal Bullet Camera is a new-generation thermal imaging device designed for long-range infrared monitoring. It supports intelligent features such as fire point detection, tripwire alerts, and area intrusion detection, effectively enhancing target recognition accuracy at night and in adverse weather conditions. This camera is ideal for large-scale, long-distance surveillance scenarios, including border and coastal defense, airports, and high-altitude urban monitoring.

4)Product Features & Advantages of Raythink Observation Thermal Bullet Cameras

Versatile Configurations for Diverse Applications
Raythink’s thermal bullet cameras offer a wide range of configurations to meet the needs of various scenarios. The product line includes thermal imaging sensors with resolutions of 256×192, 384×288, and 640×512, with multiple lens options tailored for different observation distances—each model provides 3 to 4 lens size choices. Customers can also choose between single-infrared and dual-spectrum models based on specific requirements. This extensive configurability ensures adaptability across diverse monitoring environments.

12μm Pixel Pitch – Sharper Images, Longer Detection, Lower Cost
As a leader in uncooled infrared chip technology, Raythink has independently developed the world’s smallest pixel-pitch thermal imaging detector. Compared to the industry-standard 17μm detectors, Raythink’s 12μm pixel detectors deliver higher image clarity and richer details within the same image size, offering a clearer view, extended detection range, and reduced costs.

High-Precision Temperature Measurement with Auto Alarm
Unlike conventional cameras on the market, Raythink’s dual-spectrum models support precise temperature measurement from -20°C to 550°C with industrial-grade accuracy. The devices allow for customizable temperature measurement rules across points, lines, areas, or full-screen, and support intelligent linkage alarms, enabling automatic high-temperature alerts.

Built-in Behavior Analysis for Smarter Use
Raythink’s dual-spectrum cameras feature advanced embedded intelligent analysis algorithms, supporting dual-spectrum tripwire detection, area intrusion detection, AI-based thermal target classification, and smart fire point detection algorithms. These intelligent functions enhance operational convenience and greatly improve security and inspection efficiency.

Ultra-Low NETD for Enhanced Imaging Quality
The Noise Equivalent Temperature Difference (NETD) is a key metric for thermal sensitivity. A lower NETD value means higher sensitivity and better image clarity. Raythink’s infrared thermal imaging devices feature an ultra-low NETD of less than 40mK (certified at 36mK), ensuring clearer imaging and more accurate temperature detection.

Robust Platform Integration & Compatibility
Raythink provides compatible NVR and VMS software, supporting standard protocols such as ONVIF and GB28181. SDKs are available in multiple versions for secondary development, and cloud platforms offer standardized API interfaces, enabling seamless integration with various third-party platforms and ensuring stronger compatibility and broader application potential.

3. Key Differences Between Dome Camera and Bullet Camera

Feature	Dome Camera	Bullet Camera
Appearance	Dome-shaped, compact, often blends into the environment	Cylindrical/gun-shaped, prominent and noticeable
Concealment	High – hard to detect and direction is not obvious	Low – highly visible with clear pointing direction
Deterrence	Low (due to discreet design)	High (due to visible presence)
Protection	Usually equipped with high IK (impact resistance) and IP (waterproof) ratings	Relies on housing and installation location, more vulnerable to tampering
Lens Flexibility	Typically fixed or limited zoom, lens changes are not easy	Compatible with various focal lengths, lens replacement is easier
Field of View	Often wide-angle, ideal for close-range, large-area coverage	Can be equipped with telephoto lenses, suitable for long-distance detail capture
Installation & Adjustment	Harder to adjust viewing angle post-installation (especially embedded types)	Easier to adjust via mounting bracket
Night Vision Performance	May be affected by IR reflection from dome cover	Usually free from reflection issues, better night vision performance
Typical Use Cases	Indoor use, aesthetic focus, discreet wide-angle monitoring	Outdoor use, long-range monitoring, visible deterrence, tamper-prone areas

4.How to Choose: Dome Camera or Bullet Camera?

Choosing which type of camera to use ultimately depends on your specific surveillance goals, the characteristics of the area to be monitored, your budget, and your aesthetic preferences. There is no absolute “better” choice—only the one that fits your needs best.

When making your decision, consider the following key questions:

Is your main monitoring area indoors or outdoors?
Do you need to cover a wide, close-range area or capture detailed images at long distances?
Do you want the surveillance system to act as a visible deterrent, or do you prefer it to be as discreet as possible?
Will the camera be installed in a location exposed to harsh weather or potential tampering?
Do you have specific requirements for the camera’s design and appearance?
What is your budget range?

Often, the most effective surveillance solution combines both types of cameras to leverage their respective strengths. For example, dome cameras are ideal for building entrances, busy indoor areas, or locations where aesthetics matter, while bullet cameras are better suited for outdoor perimeters, parking lots, or areas requiring long-distance monitoring.

Conducting a thorough site survey and security needs assessment, along with consulting a professional security system integrator or installer, will help you better understand how different camera types perform in your environment. This ensures you select the most suitable equipment to build a reliable and efficient security system. Remember, the cost invested in appropriate surveillance equipment should be weighed against the security risks and potential losses you face.

Choosing the right camera is the crucial first step in creating a strong security system. If you’re still unsure whether a dome or bullet camera fits your needs, or want advice on which specific models best suit your application, our expert team is here to help.

Feel free to browse our product catalog to explore our comprehensive infrared camera lineup, or contact us directly with your specific requirements. We’ll provide professional advice and customized solutions tailored to your scenario!

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Table of Contents

Dome Camera vs Bullet Camera: Which is Better for Your Security Needs?

1.What is Dome Camera?