Outdoor CCTV is one of the strongest deterrents against burglary - and if you’re looking for the best outdoor CCTV cameras in the UK, you’re already ahead of most homeowners. According to the Office for National Statistics, properties with visible CCTV are up to 70% less likely to be targeted by burglars.
But with dozens of models, specs and features, how do you pick the right one?
In this guide, we break down the best outdoor CCTV cameras for homes and businesses, explain what features matter most, and recommend the top models available at WME — the UK’s trusted supplier of Hikvision, TP-Link and professional-grade CCTV.
Why Outdoor CCTV Matters (for Homes & Businesses)
Outdoor cameras act as your first line of defence, capturing activity before intruders reach your doors or windows.
Outdoor CCTV helps you:
- Deter break-ins and antisocial behaviour
- Monitor driveways, gardens and entrances
- Keep an eye on vehicles and outdoor storage
- Reduce insurance claims
- Receive instant alerts on your mobile
And thanks to technologies like ColourVu, DarkFighter, Smart IR and AI analytics, outdoor CCTV is now more capable than ever - even in darkness.
What to Look For in the Best Outdoor CCTV Camera
Before we review the top picks, here are the features that matter most for outdoor security:
✔ 1. Resolution
- Higher resolution = sharper detail.
- 8MP / 4K → best for identification
- 5MP → ideal balance of quality & price
- 2MP → budget option
✔ 2. Night Vision
Essential for outdoor use.
Top technologies include:
- Hikvision ColourVu (full-colour night vision)
- DarkFighter (low-light performance)
- Smart IR (up to 40m–80m infrared range)
✔ 3. IP Rating
Outdoor cameras should be IP66 or IP67 for water and dust protection.
✔ 4. Wired vs Wireless
- Wired (PoE) → most reliable
- Wireless Wi-Fi → flexible & easy DIY
✔ 5. AI Features
Useful for reducing false alerts:
- Human / vehicle detection
- Line-crossing
- Intrusion detection
Best Outdoor CCTV Cameras (2026 UK Top Picks)
Below are the strongest outdoor CCTV options available on WME.
1. Hikvision DS-2CD2387G2H-LISU/SL 8MP ColourVu Turret Camera
Best for: Maximum night vision clarity & full-colour recording
➡️ Shop: Hikvision CCTV Cameras
Why it’s a top choice:
This 8MP turret offers stunning, full-colour imaging at night, making it ideal for driveways, gardens, car parks and business exteriors.
Key features:
- 8MP Ultra HD
- ColourVu night vision
- Built-in microphone
- Smart human/vehicle detection
- IP67 weatherproof
Perfect for homeowners wanting premium clarity or businesses needing usable evidence day and night.
2. Hikvision DS-2CE78H0T-IT3E 5MP EXIR Turret Camera
Best for: High-quality outdoor CCTV on a budget
➡️ Shop: Hikvision Cameras
Why it’s recommended:
A reliable, affordable outdoor turret with 40m Smart IR - great value for homeowners.
Features:
- 5MP HD image quality
- Smart IR up to 40m
- IP67 weatherproofing
- Strong low-light performance
Ideal for front doors, side alleys and garden areas.
3. Hikvision DS-2CD2T86G2-2I (8MP) Bullet Camera
Best for: Long-driveway monitoring & commercial sites
➡️ Shop: Long-range Hikvision Cameras
What makes it stand out:
A bullet-style camera with 80m IR and DarkFighter tech, perfect for monitoring large outdoor areas.
Features:
- 8MP Ultra HD
- DarkFighter low-light imaging
- 80m IR distance
- IP67 waterproof
Fantastic for car parks, warehouses, large homes and industrial premises.
4. TP-Link VIGI InSight S345ZI 4MP Motorized Varifocal Bullet IP Camera
Best for: Wireless outdoor CCTV
➡️ Shop: TP-Link CCTV Cameras
Why choose it:
A great Wi-Fi outdoor camera for DIY setups - no cabling required.
Features:
- 2K QHD resolution
- Superior night vision with ColourPro
- AI person detection
- Weatherproof design
- Works with Alexa & Google Home
Perfect for rented homes, small businesses and users without cabling access.
| Camera | Resolution | Night Vision | Weather Rating | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hikvision 8MP ColourVu Turret | 8MP | Full-colour | IP67 | High-quality home security |
| Hikvision 5MP EXIR Turret | 5MP | 40m IR | IP67 | Budget-friendly protection |
| Hikvision 8MP Bullet | 8MP | 80m IR | IP67 | Car parks & long-range |
| TP-Link C325WB Wi-Fi | 2K | Enhanced colour night vision | IP66 | Wireless outdoor setups |
Where to Install Outdoor CCTV Cameras (Best Placement)
For maximum coverage, place cameras at:
- Front door
- Back door
- Driveway
- Side paths
- Garden perimeter
- Garage / outbuildings
Tip: Mount cameras at 8–10 ft high to avoid tampering.
FAQs About Outdoor CCTV Cameras
1. Are outdoor CCTV cameras legal in the UK?
Yes - but follow CCTV rules & regulations if your camera faces public or neighbouring property.
2. Do I need Wi-Fi for outdoor CCTV?
Not always.
3. What’s better — wired or wireless outdoor CCTV?
- Wired (PoE) → best reliability
- Wireless → easier for renters or no-cable access
4. Are outdoor CCTV cameras fully waterproof?
Look for IP66 or IP67 ratings for UK weather.
Which Outdoor CCTV Camera Is Best?
If you want the best possible outdoor security, go for:
- Premium: Hikvision 8MP ColourVu Turret
- Best value: Hikvision 5MP Turret
- Long-distance: Hikvision 8MP Bullet
- Wireless option: TP-Link VIGI InSight S485 8MP
No matter your property type or budget, WME stocks the UK’s most reliable outdoor CCTV cameras with fast delivery and expert support.
👉 Browse all Outdoor Hikvision Cameras
👉 Shop TP-Link Wireless Outdoor Cameras
