The realm of individual CCTV camera models encompasses a diverse array of designs, with the two most prevalent being bullet cameras and dome cameras.

Bullet cameras are characterized by their affordability and ease of positioning towards specific areas of interest.

Dome cameras, on the other hand, are cost-effective and can be easily installed on ceilings.

Nevertheless, the overall cost is significantly influenced by the distinction in price between outdoor and indoor camera types, as elaborated below.

• Bullet Camera : £19.99–160
• Dome Camera: £45–140
• C-Mount Camera: £37–200

IP cameras typically come at a higher cost compared to CCTV cameras due to their enhanced features. These cameras often provide local storage options on a micro SD card and connect to Wi-Fi as independent devices with dedicated addresses.

The inclusion of these advanced features contributes to increased manufacturing costs, in addition to the elevated build quality associated with premium hardware.

• Wireless indoor camera: £32–210
• Wired outdoor camera: £67–230

Indoor cameras are generally the most economical security cameras available, given that they are not exposed to weather and, therefore, do not need to meet the same build quality standards.

When evaluating indoor and outdoor cameras, two metrics are crucial:

1. IP rating: indicating the camera's resistance to weather and environmental factors. This is presented as two numbers, with the first on a 0–6 scale representing "dust tolerance" and the second on a 0–8 scale for water resistance.
2. IK rating: assessing the camera's ability to withstand impact, expressed on a 0–10 scale.

As a general guideline, cameras with higher IK and IP ratings tend to fall on the higher end of the cost spectrum outlined in the camera cost tables above. Conversely, lower IK and IP ratings are associated with indoor cameras, as they are assumed to be less exposed to the same level of environmental stress.

The installation cost for a security camera varies from £250 to £500 for a basic CCTV system. The duration of the installation can span anywhere from 1 to 4 hours, contingent on factors such as the required wiring, the complexity of accessing the mounting location, and the time necessary to explain the system to the homeowner.

• CCTV basic: £250–500
• CCTV advanced: £350–650
• IP Camera basic: £150–500
• IP Camera advanced: £250–800

There are two strategies to cut down on your installation expenses:

1. Opt for a Third-Party Installation Service:
   Choosing a third-party installation service can often result in savings of 10–25% compared to the default service offered by your hardware provider. This is particularly applicable to well-known systems such as ADT and Verisure, as well as other in-person sales experiences at hardware stores. While it might be uncomfortable to decline additional services, doing so can be a practical way to save money.
2. Self-Install for Cost Savings:
   Self-installation is not recommended for complex wired systems, but it can be a viable option for simple wired (coaxial) systems and fully wireless systems. For wired systems requiring a separate power supply, professional assistance from a handyman or certified electrician might be necessary. However, for most homeowners with basic handy skills, installing straightforward wired and fully wireless systems is feasible. CCTV systems typically do not need integration with home wiring, and the challenge lies more in placing coaxial lines between cameras and the DVR. Additionally, IP camera systems often offer "power over ethernet," making installation similarly straightforward.

Installing CCTV at home is generally straightforward, provided there's no need to drill into walls to conceal coaxial cables connecting each camera to the central DVR. More expensive IP camera systems often allow wireless installation, making brands like SimpliSafe and Ring popular among renters. However, it's worth noting that the initial cost for these systems is typically higher than that of an analogue CCTV system.

For a basic 4-camera 8-channel CCTV system, the typical cost falls in the range of £198 to £307. On the other hand, more modern IP camera setups with similar specifications are approximately 50% pricier, ranging from £300 to £466.

Individual security cameras can be obtained for as low as £19.99 retail (outside of sales). However, standalone cameras that operate independently without being part of a larger CCTV or IP camera system tend to be priced higher, typically ranging from £50 to £130.