Best Auto-Tracking, Rotating Security Cameras

Auto-tracking security cameras provide both a comprehensive view of their surroundings along with the ability to detect and track potential threats in real-time. Coupled with optical zoom, these cameras rotate and scan based on presets while their auto-tracking feature enhances monitoring by providing clear and detailed footage, at a distance.

They reduce the need for multiple cameras therefore reducing installation and maintenance costs. These cameras can be controlled remotely, providing peace of mind and added security for homeowners and businesses alike.

In this guide, I break these cameras down into two sections; outdoor auto-tracking cameras which are more suited to businesses or large property owners and indoor camera which are more consumer-grade.

Best Auto-Tracking, Rotating Security Cameras

Outdoor Auto-tracking Cameras

Outdoor PTZ cameras that have an auto-tracking function typically use optical zoom when focusing in on a target. So the zoom magnification level is going to be a key feature and typically the higher the level, the greater the price.

Low-light sensors are ideal for these cameras which can result in full color night vision in pretty dark conditions. All of these cameras are IP and typically connected to an NVR via a PoE connection. Reolink is the exception below as it's a Wi-Fi camera. PTZ cameras are generally well built to withstand the elements and usually have a solid metal housing. Some are vandal proof so worth checking those ratings, if your camera may be at risk.

This 5MP LightHunter security camera is a mid-range indoor/outdoor PTZ camera manufactured by Uniview. It has a resolution of 2880x1620 and uses a CMOS image sensor with a motorized lens with a focal length range of 2.8~12mm.

The camera supports 3 video streams and uses H.265+H.265, H.264 and MJPEG video coding formats. It has a maximum supported frame rate of 30 fps and supports True WDR with a 120db WDR DB.

The camera features a night vision functionality with IR-cut filter and can detect motion and audio exceptions. It has a built-in microphone and speaker and supports two-way audio.

The camera can be powered using PoE or DC12V power. It has a weight of 870g and dimensions of Φ133mm*269mm and is rated IP66 for weather resistance.

The camera can be viewed and controlled using the Uniview EZView mobile app for Android and iOS.

The Montavue 4K Camera is a high-end PTZ security camera that can be used both indoors and outdoors. It comes with a 2-year warranty and has the option for a 3- or 5-year extension.

The camera features 4K resolution, an 8MP image sensor, and a motorized lens with a focal length range of 5.4mm-135mm. It has True WDR and can operate in total darkness up to 500ft with its infrared LED.

The camera is equipped with PoE and AC power options, with a power consumption of 20W to 30W. It supports ONVIF and RTSP, and has smart motion detection features such as person and vehicle detection, perimeter protection, and tripwire detection.

The camera is made of heavy-duty aluminum, has a weight of 8.2 lbs and dimensions of 13.07 in x 7.48 in, and is rated IP67 for weather resistance.

Finally, it is accessible through the MontavueGO mobile app for Android and iOS, as well as the MontavueGO desktop app for Windows and Mac, and the Montavue browser app for IE11, Chrome, and Firefox.

The Reolink RLC-523WA camera comes with a 5MP resolution and CMOS image sensor. It is primarily a Wi-Fi camera that supports 2.4GHz and 5GHz WiFi although it can also transmit over Ethernet. It is not a PoE camera though so needs a separate DC power source.

It is equipped with a 5x motorized lens that has a focal length range of 13.5mm and maximum aperture of F1.6.

The camera has motion-activated recording, continuous recording, and H.264 video coding format with a maximum frame rate of 30fps. It also has night vision functionality with infrared and full-color options, as well as a built-in microphone and speaker for two-way audio.

The camera is compatible with the Reolink NVR and FTP server for storage, and can be monitored and controlled through the Reolink mobile app and desktop app.

The camera has 360° pan and 90° tilt capabilities with 5x optical zoom. It is made of metal aluminum and has an IP66 rating for protection against weather and dust.

The Annke CZ500 Ultra is a wired PTZ security camera with 4MP resolution and 25x optical zoom. It has the options of DC power or Power over Ethernet.

It supports H.265 and H.264 video coding formats with a maximum supported frame rate of 60fps and true WDR. It also has infrared night vision with a distance of up to 164ft and smart motion detection features such as person and face detection, perimeter protection, and intrusion detection.

The camera has a 360° pan angle and 90° tilt angle, and is rated IP66 for outdoor use. It can be viewed on the ANNKE Vision App available on Android and iOS.

The Dahua PTZ Camera is a high-end security camera equipped with 4MP resolution, 1/2.8" CMOS image sensor, and a motorized 45x optical lens with a focal length range of 3.95 mm to 177.75 mm.

It features H.265+H.265, H.264+H.264, and MJPEG video coding formats, and has a maximum supported frame rate of 30 fps with True WDR of 120db.

It also has a night vision functionality with infrared and full color options, and the infrared distance in total darkness can reach up to 820.21 ft.

The camera supports microSD, NVR, and NAS storage options with a maximum capacity of 256 GB. It is compatible with ONVIF and RTSP and has smart motion detection features including person, vehicle, and object detection.

It can be accessed and controlled via Dahua DMSS mobile and web apps for Android and iOS, as well as IE10, Safari, and Firefox. The camera is made of metal and is rated IP67 for weather resistance.

The Axis Q6075-E Dome Camera is a high-end security camera designed for indoor/outdoor use. It features a 2MP resolution with a 1080P image and a motorized lens with a focal length range of 4.25-170mm.

The camera supports video coding formats such as H.265, H.264, MJPEG and HEVC with a maximum supported frame rate of 60 fps and true WDR of 120db. It includes night vision functionality with Axis Lightfinder 2.0, and provides perimeter protection features such as person detection, vehicle detection, and object detection.

Its' equipped with a metal casing with an IP67 rating, and can operate in temperatures ranging from -58°F to 122°F.

The camera can be viewed on mobile devices through the AXIS Camera Station Mobile App for Android and iOS.

Indoor Auto-tracking Cameras

These indoor cameras are much cheaper than the above outdoor equivalents. They are more for keeping track of kids and pets as opposed to any serious security deterrence or monitoring.

Wyze Cam Pan v2 is a budget indoor PT security camera that offers wireless data and wired power connectivity.

It features a 2MP resolution with 1080P video, a CMOS image sensor, and a 120° field of view. It has night vision functionality with infrared lights that can illuminate up to 29.6 feet.

The camera supports motion-activated recording, two-way audio, and integrated microphone and speaker. The footage is stored in the AWS cloud or on a microSD card (sold separately), and can be accessed through the Wyze mobile app.

It offers several smart motion detection features including person, vehicle, and pet detection, but these require a monthly subscription. The camera has a motorized pan feature with 360° coverage and a tilt angle of 93°.

It is made of polycarbonate and glass and has a weight of 249g. Its important to note that the camera is not weather proof and has a maximum operating humidity of 90%.

The mobile app provides multi-channel viewing, live feed, video playback, real-time notifications, and more.

As menitoned, some features are free, while others require a monthly subscription of $1.25 billed annually.

The Amcrest 4MP PT Security Camera is an indoor WiFi camera that provides high-quality surveillance for your home or office. With a 4MP resolution of 2560x1440, the camera captures clear and detailed images.

The camera is equipped with a CMOS image sensor, a fixed focus 4mm lens with a 90° field of view, and a minimum illumination of 0.0840lux for color. The camera supports H.265 and H.264 video coding and can provide 30fps video stream at main stream.

It has a digital WDR/HDR and comes with IR night vision up to 32ft, two-way audio, and motion alerts with push notifications.

The device is compatible with microSD, NVR, NAS, FTP, cloud, and can support up to 256gb of on-board storage. It can be controlled through the Amcrest View Pro mobile app for Android and iOS, the Amcrest Surveillance Pro desktop app for Windows and Mac, and the Amcrest Web View browser app for Chrome.

Finally, the camera is made of plastic and is 290g in weight with dimensions of 4.04” x 3.94” x 4.66”.

Decision Factors

Zoom Magnification Level

The zoom magnification level is an important decision factor when choosing an auto-tracking security camera. A higher zoom level means that the camera can focus in on a target from a greater distance. Outdoor auto-tracking cameras typically use optical zoom when focusing in on a target, so the higher the zoom level, the more expensive the camera is likely to be. When considering the zoom magnification level, think about what kind of area you are looking to monitor and how far away you need to be able to see.

Night Vision Capability

Night vision capability is a crucial factor. Low-light sensors are ideal for outdoor cameras, as they allow for full-color night vision in dark. In pitch black, most PTZ cameras have infrared LEDs also. When considering the night vision capability, think about the area and distance you are looking to monitor and how important it is to have clear footage, even in the dark.

Power Options

Auto-tracking security cameras can be powered in a variety of ways, including Power over Ethernet (PoE) or DC power. PoE is a convenient option, as it provides both power and data over a single cable, while DC power is a more traditional option. Consider the location of your camera and the power sources available when choosing the best power option for your needs.

PTZ Features

PTZ features, such as presets and tracking, enhance the monitoring capabilities of an auto-tracking security camera. Presets allow you to set specific positions for the camera to scan, while tracking allows the camera to follow a moving target. When considering the PTZ features, think about what kind of monitoring you need and whether you want the camera to be able to follow specific targets. Also, consider what software you will be using and if you need ONVIF support.

Storage Options

Auto-tracking security cameras come with a variety of storage options, including microSD, Network Video Recorder (NVR), Network Attached Storage (NAS), and File Transfer Protocol (FTP). Consider the size of the area you are looking to monitor and the amount of footage you need to store when choosing the best storage option for your needs. A larger area with more activity will require more storage, while a smaller area with less activity may require less.

Conclusion

As you can see, auto-tracking security cameras are an excellent investment to improve the security of your home or workplace. These cameras provide 360-degree coverage and the ability to track moving objects, making it easier to monitor and protect your property.

Whether you are looking to deter intruders, keep an eye on your children, or simply monitor your property, auto-tracking security cameras are well worth considering, as part of your overall security system.