10 Best PTZ Cameras
for March 2023

MOOZ's editors select recommendations independently. Purchases made through our links may earn us commissions.

We've all had the experience of needing to make a video call with someone, only to find the camera on our home phone or PC is too far away. Many modern cell phones have cameras that record in 1080p, which is more than enough to see what's going on in the room. But for those times when you need to capture something close up, like your kids playing in a sandbox, or from a wider angle, like recording the view from your deck, or zooming in on guests at your next party, you need a great PTZ camera.

PTZ cameras, also known as pan-tilt-zoom cameras, have become increasingly popular in recent years thanks to their versatility. The acronym stands for "pan", which refers to the ability to tilt the camera in any direction. The "tilt" part of the acronym refers to the ability of the camera to rotate up and down, which is useful for getting those overhead shots. The "zoom" part of the acronym refers to the camera's ability to get closer or farther away from a subject.

MOOZ Reviews tests the latest innovations in consumer electronics and home appliances, including smart home devices, smart speakers, streaming players, smart displays, and security cameras. We evaluate each model on performance, ease of use, and tech specifications. Here are the best PTZ cameras you can buy in 2022:

1
9.9
SCORE
Zowietek PTZ Camera Optics 20X Live Streaming Camera with Simultaneous HDMI and 3G-SDI Outputs

Zowietek PTZ Camera Optics 20X Live Streaming with Camera Simultaneous HDMI and 3G-SDI Outputs

by TS
What We like

Low Noise and High SNR: Low Noise CMOS effectively ensure high SNR of camera video. Advanced 2D/3D noise reduction technology is also used to further reduce the noise, while ensuring image sharpness.

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Product Features

  • Super High-definition Image: It employs 1/2.8 inch high quality CMOS sensor. Resolution is up to 1920x1080 with frame rate up to 60 fps.
  • Supports H.265/H.264 encoding which makes motion video fluent and clear even with less than ideal bandwidth conditions
  • Can work with Zowietek live streaming encoder(LiveV200)
  • Support HDMI,3G-SDI,LAN interface.Support ONVIF,RTSP,RTMP protocols and RTMP push mode,easy to link streaming media server (Wowza,FMS)
2
9.8
SCORE
Ctronics 5MP PTZ Camera Outdoor 30X Optical Zoom, 492ft Night Vision with Laser IR Light WiFi Security Camera Outdoor Wireless Auto Tracking & Human Detection Sound Light Alarm Two-Way Audio IP66

Ctronics 5MP PTZ Camera 30X Outdoor Optical Zoom

by Ctronics
What We like

Two-Way Audio& WaterproofThe PTZ outdoor camera will be durable for using even under snow and storm with the IP66 waterproof steady aluminum case. The built in high-quality speakers and microphones make sure to communicate with people in the surveillance area when youre away from home.

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Product Features

  • Auto Tracking& Sound Light AlarmThe PTZ cmera with improved smart motion detection function and auto tracking less false alarm, send real-time snapshots to mailbox or FTP Server. At the same time, the red and blue light flashing come with the sound warning serve to frighten intruder.
  • 30X Optical Zoom PTZ CameraThe 30X optical zoom feature provides the ability to focus on fine details like faces or license plates. The 355horizontal and 90vertical pan and tilt remotely via phone/tablet/PC which offers you less blind area vision.
  • Night Vision 492ft Surveillance Camera Advanced night vision with 7pcs high performance infrared array LED lights (2 laser infrared lights included) extend the viewing distance to 400ft. The addition of laser IR light makes its night vision effect clearer and farther than other security cameras with only ordinary IR lights. Ideal for home outdoor or large areas place.
  • 5MP HD Security CameraOur surveillance camera with Image Sensor adopt 5.0Megapixels Sony IMX335 CMOS, strive for more perfect and clearer images based on powerful configuration. Painting all the vivid colors and rich imagery, pixel by pixel, onto your computer screen or mobile device dynamically.
3
9.5
SCORE
SUNBA 1080p Auto Tracking Starlight 25x Optical Zoom IP PoE+ PTZ Camera, RTMP for Broadcasting and Outdoor with Built-in Mic & Long Range Infrared Night Vision up to 1000ft (Illuminati)

SUNBA 1080p Auto Tracking Starlight 25x Zoom Optical IP PoE+ PTZ Camera

by SUNBA
What We like

[Smart Tracking Makes Surveillance Effective] This wired industrial-grade IP camera is able to automatically follow moving objects in 3 modes: line cross tracking, perimeter tracking and preset tracking powered by the high speed motors to deliver enhanced smooth tracking experiences. The camera can be viewed by IE/Chrome (PC desktop), and comes with complimentary client software set for Mac & Win. Note: Browsers are not supported for Mac.

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Product Features

  • [Outdoor Audio & Video Monitoring] Industrial-level waterproof shell with an operating temperature rating at -4~140 F to tackle extreme weathers. The camera has dual audio solutions: it comes with a built-in microphone to pick up ordinary audio activity and users seeking optimized sound quality can choose to hook external microphone simply by switching a wire in camera body. Warning decal is included.
  • [Capture More Details with 25x Optical Zoom] The 25x optical zoom lens will leverage the zoom status of the camera according to the distance of a moving object, day and night. The camera is equipped with a 1/2.8" Sony Starvis Sensor and delivers [email protected] in H.264/H.265.
  • [RTMP Direct Broadcasting to YouTube] Make broadcasting PC-free. Different from other IP cameras with only RTSP stream, Sunba Illuminati supports RTMP stream as well and is able to push live stream event directly to YouTube (H.264/AAC only) without 3rd party software/server. Note: RTMPS is not supported.
4
9.2
SCORE
AV-1081W 10x Full HD HDMI PTZ Camera with IP Live Streaming - White

AVIPAS AV-1081W 10x Full HD HDMI Camera PTZ with IP Live Streaming

by AViPAS
What We like

Elegant, compact design; super quiet and smooth pan/tilt mechanism

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Product Features

  • 60.9 wide-angle lens, High SNR of CMOS sensor combined with 2D&3D noise reduction algorithm
  • 1920 x 1080 high resolution output with a frame rate up to 60fps
  • H.264/H.265 video compression, IP streaming & HDMI output, RS-232 (VISCA/ Pelco-D/ Pelco-P), VISCA over IP and IR remote control
  • Low-power sleep function, lower than 0.4W
5
8.9
SCORE
High Speed 5MP H.265 PTZ POE IP Security Dome Camera with 20X Optical Zoom Pan/Tilt and Waterproof IR-Cut Night Vision for Indoor and Outdoor Security

JideTech High Speed 5MP H.265 PTZ POE IP Security Dome Camera with 20X Zoom Optical Pan/Tilt and Waterproof IR-Cut Night Vision for Indoor and Outdoor Security

by JideTech
What We like

Waterproof IP66: This camera is coming with unique design and IP66 level waterproof steady aluminum case.Can be used for outdoor even under rain, snow and storm bad weather. It also passed CE, FCC. RoHs test

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Product Features

  • Power over ethernet makes cabling and installation easierSingle cat5 cable for both power and data transmission. No need power adapter would reduce the work of installing power cords and mount home security camera outdoor
  • Excellent view angle and images: Ultra HD 5.0 Megapixel and auto iris and 20X motorized zoom with IR night vision can make you experience flawless close-up details
  • Real-time and accurate intelligent motion alertsEmail alerts/Snapshots as well as mobile and web apps. IE and Chrome support (Need to download the IE TAB ). Compatible with 3rd party software : iSpy, Milestone, Digi fort and Blue Iris to watch video. Support onvif protocol GB/T28281,compatible with Hikvision, XM, Dahua, Amcrest. Can't work with MAC Book
6
8.8
SCORE
Amcrest Outdoor PTZ POE Camera, Pan/Tilt/ 12x Optical Zoom 1080P POE+ (802.3at) Home Security PTZ IP Camera, Starvis Low Light Sensor, 328ft Night Vision, IP66 Waterproof, 2-Megapixel, IP2M-853EW

Amcrest Outdoor PTZ POE Camera

by Amcrest
What We like

Optical Zoom PoE+ H.265 This 12X optical zoom outdoor PTZ IP camera produces brilliant 1080P video at 30fps and features enhanced low light capability utilizing the latest Sony Starvis IMX290 image sensor and Ambarella S3LM chipset. Cover more ground with remotely adjustable viewing angle (4.8 to 58.2) and 360 pan and 90 tilt. Bleeding edge H.265 compression technology allows smoother video and reduces file sizes and bandwidth consumption.

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Product Features

  • Day or Night, Rain or Shine POE+ 802.3at Built to whether any storm and surveil the darkest of nights, this outdoor PTZ camera features a heavy-duty metal waterproof IP66 housing as well as built-in IR LEDs and a Sony Starvis 1/2.8 progressive image sensor to achieve unsurpassed low-light capability and night-vision up to 328 feet. This camera works with PoE+ power (802.3at) or the included Amcrest 12V power supply in order to operate.
  • Smarter Security Receive motion alert notifications and review footage via your smartphone with the Amcrest View app. Playback and record professionally on a PC using the Amcrest Surveillance Pro for Windows and MAC (included) or Blue Iris Professional. Works with Amcrest Cloud remote video storage, MicroSd, Amcrest NVRs, Synology and QNAP NAS, FTP, SeaMonkey, Pale Moon (32bit), IE, Safari 11, Firefox 49.0 and Chrome with Amcrest Web View Extension.
  • Secure Cloud Video Backup The optional Amcrest Cloud remote video storage subscription service allows you automatically store your videos off-site in a third-party location hosted and secured by Amazon AWS. This way if something happens to your local PC/NVR/SDcard/NAS, the footage will be safely recorded in a secure off-site location and accessible to you through a web-based Flash interface for PC (Windows & MAC) (Chrome/Firefox/Safari/Edge) and Amcrest Cloud smartphone app.
7
8.6
SCORE
Tenveo Conference Room Camera 3X Optical Zoom Full HD 1080p USB PTZ Video Conference Camera for Business Meetings (3X Zoom TEVO-VHD3U)

Tenveo Conference Room Camera 3X Optical Zoom Full HD 1080p PTZ USB Video Conference Camera for Business Meetings (3X Zoom TEVO-VHD3U)

by Tenveo
What We like

USB2.0 Video Output. Anyone in the office can easily setup and control video meetings. Remote control Tips: Press the Number(1-9) directly to call the reserved preset, more Fast and Smooth.

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Product Features

  • PTZ camera platform: Pan: 0 to 340 degree (max speed is 80 degree per second.Wide angle is 90 degree.),Tilt: 0 to 120 degree. 3X optical zoom,2.1 mega pixel. 256 Preset positions. RS-232, RS-485,IR remote control. VISCA,PELCO-D/P Control Protocol.
  • 3X optical zoom Professional video conferencing camera for Business Meetings, youll feel like youre face-to-face in the same room. everyone in the room can be clearly seen in professional high-quality video with full HD 1080p camera. Recommended meeting room size: 5x7m(17'x23'), 35 Square meters.
  • What's in the box. TEVO-VHD 3X Zoom Conference Cam, DC 12V power adapter, IR remote control, manual, USB2.0 Cable(3m), Brackets & screws. 30-Day money back guaranty for No reason.
  • Broad application compatibility. Recommend using Zoom and skype for business as the conferencing software, you can adjust the video acquisition parameters in the software to improve video quality and liquidity, such as adjust video resolution, video compressor(recommend H.264 or MJPG) and frame rate. Important: Make sure your internet upload/download speeds exceed at least 2M bit per second(>256KB/s) and stable enough.
8
8.3
SCORE
LEFTEK PTZ Camera Outdoor HD-CVI HD-TVI AHD Coax CVBS Analog 4-in-1 5MP Outdoor Security Camera 20X Optical Zoom 60M IR Speed Dome with RS485 Control AC24V

LEFTEK PTZ Camera Outdoor HD-CVI HD-TVI AHD Coax CVBS Analog 4-in-1 5MP Outdoor Camera Security 20X Optical Zoom 60M IR Speed Dome with RS485 Control AC24V

by LEFTEK
What We like

Outdoor Infrared PTZ Dome - Equipped with 6pcs powerful IR LED array to get 197ft effective vision range at night. Adopt IR Cut Filter technology to auto switch Day/Night monitor mode, 24H Surveillance.

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Product Features

  • 4-in-1 CCTV Security Camera with RS485 - The speed dome camera can output HD over Coax video signals (HD-CVI,HD-TVI,AHD) and CVBS Analog resolution video, which is compatible with Security DVRs, XVRs and Analog DVRs. The PTZ camera can be connected to a PTZ Controller with RS485 Leads.
  • Auto Monitor with Scheduled Path - The PTZ camera support 128 programmable presets, 4 tour sets,1 Pattern, AB Scan and Auto Pan. Perfect addition to HD CCTV system that covers blind spots.Lifetime technical support.
  • Pan Tilt Zoom Security Camera- Heavy duty camera on motorized base can horizontal rotation 360 0.6~30/s, and vertical tilt 90 4~17/s, 180 flip. Built-in 4.7~94mm varifocal len provides 20X Optical zoom, allow you zoom into fine details without decreasing video resolution.
  • Integrated 5.0 Megapixel For Sony Image Sensor to provide Full HD video at 25fps. IP66 Full metal case with removable wall bracket allow it withstand bad weather outdoor and apply for different installation requirement. Powered by AC24V/2A allow arranging the power lead up to 263ft.
9
8.3
SCORE
Reolink PTZ Camera Outdoor 5MP Super HD Work with Google Assistant, PoE IP Security Monitor IR Night Vision Pan Tilt 4X Optical Zoom Motion Detection Video Surveillance Dome RLC-423

Reolink PTZ Camera Outdoor 5MP HD Super Work with Google Assistant

by Reolink Digital
What We like

PTZ Security Camera: Pan-tilt-zoom camera with cruise 360 pan, 90 tilt, 4x optical zoom, PoE with one cable and easy wiring, no blind spots left for this weatherproof commercial grade surveillance camera and wired security camera system.

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Product Features

  • MOTION DETECT and ALERT: This PTZ IP camera has flexible motion detection (set detection zone, schedule detection time and adjust sensibility), real-time and accurate movement alert via app push notification or email. Automatically upload motion-triggered image capture and recording FTP server is supported.
  • Free App and Remote Access: Work with Google Assistant, the 5mp PoE security cameras can live stream to your TV in real-time using simple voice-activated commands. Rich feature and functions in Reolink free apps for iPhone, Android, Windows PC, Mac with no subscription fee, intuitive and easy to navigate with your Reolink PoE security camera systems.
  • 24x7 RECORDING WITH NVR: Reliable non-stop surveillance, HD video, optional recording, 24x7 HD video recording with Reolink PoE NVRs (support up to 16 cameras and all Reolink PoE security cameras).
  • 5MP PoE Camera Outdoor 190FT NIGHT VISION: 2560x1920 Super HD, this IP surveillance camera outdoor with built-in 6pcs IR LEDs achieves amazing 190ft long range night vision in dark, ideal for large areas like parking areas, garage, backyard, front yard, etc.
10
8.3
SCORE
Logitech PTZ PRO 2 Video Camera for Conference Rooms, HD 1080p Video - Auto-focus USB Black/Silver

Logitech PTZ PRO 2 Video Camera Conference for Rooms, HD 1080p Video

by Logitech
What We like

960-001186

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Top 10 Best PTZ Cameras (2019) - A PTZ Camera Review

PTZ cameras are also recognized as pan, tilt, and zoom cameras. They are a CCTV camera which is used for surveillance purposes. PTZ cameras differ in terms of their features and functions. Companies often call these cameras as dome cameras, outdoor cameras, etc. PTZ cameras are used for different purposes, i.e., surveillance, traffic management, and retail store analytics. They are used for surveillance purposes in malls, airports, hospitals, and banks. PTZ cameras are also used for traffic management purposes in airports and for retail store analytics in malls. PTZ cameras are also known as pan, tilt, and zoom cameras. They are controlled using pan, tilt, and zoom controls. PTZ cameras have long range lenses, which gives a clear vision. PTZ cameras allow operators to pan, tilt, or zoom in cameras. Operators can also do time-lapse, live-view, and facility tours using PTZ cameras. The 10 best PTZ cameras below are all cameras that have good reviews and are considered the best PTZ cameras.

What is PTZ?

PTZ cameras, or Pan Tilt Zoom cameras, are cameras with pan, tilt, and zoom capabilities. PTZ cameras allow you to control the camera's movement, making them perfect for monitoring areas that are difficult to access or for keeping an eye on large areas. PTZ cameras allow you to control the camera's movement by using simple controls on the camera itself. For example, many PTZ cameras have control buttons that enable you to pan, tilt, and zoom the camera. Some cameras also have remote controls that allow you to control the camera from up to 650 feet away. PTZ cameras are frequently used in surveillance applications, such as in banks, casinos, and retail stores. PTZ cameras can also be used in a variety of other situations, including:
Entertainment PTZ cameras can be used to monitor live events, such as concerts, sporting events, and theater performances.
Business applications PTZ cameras can be used in a variety of business applications, including:
Security PTZ cameras can be used to monitor large areas, such as parking lots, office buildings, and warehouses.
Entertainment PTZ cameras can be used to monitor live events, such as concerts, sporting events, and theater performances.
Business applications PTZ cameras can be used in a variety of business applications, including:

What are the different types of PTZ cameras?

PTZ cameras, also known as pan-tilt-zoom cameras, are an evolution of analog cameras. These cameras have the capability of moving their lenses and motors around in order to observe different areas of their field of view. PTZ cameras are often used in surveillance applications and in security systems. However, they can be used in a variety of other situations as well. PTZ cameras are a very versatile type of camera. The three types of PTZ cameras are as follows:
Digital PTZ cameras: These cameras are equipped with digital cameras. They can be controlled remotely using a digital control panel, and they feature high-resolution image sensors. Digital PTZ cameras are capable of capturing high-quality images.
Analog PTZ cameras: These cameras use lenses and motors similar to those used in analog cameras. These cameras are not capable of capturing high-resolution images, but they take up less space than digital PTZ cameras.
Analog PTZ cameras with DVRs: These cameras combine the functionality of both analog and digital cameras. They feature high-resolution image sensors and controllable lenses and motors. Analog PTZ cameras with DVRs are able to capture high-quality images.

Best PTZ cameras of 2017

PTZ cameras or pan, tilt, zoom cameras are cameras that have the ability to rotate completely around a single axis. They are commonly used in surveillance applications. PTZ cameras offer unparalleled flexibility, making them ideal for monitoring even the largest of areas.
The benefits of PTZ cameras:
PTZ cameras offer a number of advantages over traditional fixed cameras.
Flexibility: PTZ cameras offer flexibility in terms of where they can point. Fixed cameras can only point in one direction, but a PTZ camera can rotate completely around its axis, allowing it to cover large areas.
Cost: Fixed cameras are generally more expensive to buy than PTZ cameras.
Size: PTZ cameras are generally smaller than fixed cameras.
PTZ cameras vs. fixed cameras:
PTZ cameras offer a number of advantages over fixed cameras, but each has strengths that the other lacks.
PTZ cameras offer greater flexibility: Fixed cameras can only point in one direction. PTZ cameras, on the other hand, can rotate completely around its axis, allowing it to cover large areas.
PTZ cameras offer cheaper prices: Fixed cameras are generally more expensive to buy than PTZ cameras.
PTZ cameras offer smaller size: PTZ cameras are generally smaller than fixed cameras.

Pros and cons of PTZ cameras

PTZ cameras are cameras that have the ability to pan, tilt and zoom. They are commonly used for security purposes. PTZ cameras are great security tools because they are capable of monitoring a wide area. PTZ cameras can zoom in all the way, which allows the camera to capture clear images of people, objects, and vehicles. PTZ cameras can also be used for surveillance. A PTZ camera can track a person or object, and then pan, tilt, and zoom to follow them. However, PTZ cameras also have their downsides. The cameras can be expensive. PTZ cameras require a lot of power, so they could be expensive to run. They are difficult to operate. The cameras can be difficult to use, especially for users who are not familiar with PTZ cameras. PTZ cameras can require a lot of maintenance. PTZ cameras have moving parts, so they require regular maintenance. PTZ cameras can lose focus. PTZ cameras can lose focus, which can make it hard to tell if someone is in frame.

What are the key features to look for in PTZ cameras?

PTZ cameras have a pan, tilt, and zoom function, which allows them to track targets as they move across their field of view. These cameras can rotate around an object, allowing them to move up and down and side to side. PTZ cameras can also move in all directions at once, allowing them to track targets as they move across their field of view. PTZ cameras come in a variety of different models, with features including:
Wide angle: PTZ cameras with wide viewing angles can capture more images using less bandwidth.
High resolution: PTZ cameras with high resolution can record more detail in images.
Motion detection: PTZ cameras with motion detection can record video only when movement is detected.
Pan-tilt-zoom: PTZ cameras with pan-tilt-zoom function can rotate around an object, allowing them to move up and down and side to side.
Night vision: PTZ cameras with night vision allow the camera to record images in low light conditions.
Alert mode: PTZ cameras with alert mode can record video only when movement is detected.

Conclusion

Thank you for reading this post. I hope you found the most suited PTZ camera for your needs. If you did, leave a comment down below and let me know. Otherwise, if you have further questions, please feel free to contact me.

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