Can You Use Dome Security Cameras Outdoors? Pros and Cons
Dome security cameras are a popular choice for both indoor and outdoor surveillance. But people are often stuck with many myths in the market. And the most common one is “can you use dome security cameras outdoors.
Today, we’re going to solve this myth by sharing pros and cons, so you can find the right answer for you.
Without wasting your time, let’s jump into the answer.
Are Dome Cameras Suitable for Outdoor Use?
Yes, dome security cameras can definitely be used outdoors — but only if they’re built for it. Not all dome cameras are made to handle weather, temperature shifts, or tampering, so you need to check the specs before mounting one outside.
Drone cameras, including HD, Ultra HD, thermal, and multispectral types, are seeing fast-growing demand across many industries. According to recent market data, the global drone camera market is expected to grow from $1.3 billion in 2022 to over $2.8 billion by 2033, nearly doubling in size.

Image Source: Global Market Insights
This growth shows how more people — from homeowners to businesses — are relying on high-tech cameras for security, surveillance, and outdoor monitoring.
To safely install a dome camera outside, make sure it meets these conditions:
- Weatherproof Housing (IP Rating): Look for an IP65, IP66, or IP67 rating to protect the camera from rain, dust, and moisture.
- Vandal-Resistant Build (IK Rating): For high-risk areas, choose a camera with an IK10 rating, which means it’s strong enough to resist impact or tampering.
- Night Vision or Infrared: Outdoor areas often have low light, so make sure the camera includes night vision or IR LEDs for clear footage at night.
- Extreme Temperature Support: If you live somewhere hot, cold, or humid, check the camera’s temperature range to make sure it can handle your climate.
- Anti-Fog or Anti-Glare Dome: Some domes reflect sunlight or fog up. Models with anti-glare coating or built-in heaters help avoid these issues.
So yes, dome cameras can work outdoors — just pick one that’s designed for it. The demand for outdoor-ready domes is growing fast, and the right camera can give you strong protection without standing out too much.
Pros of Using Dome Cameras Outdoors
Dome cameras offer several advantages for outdoor surveillance, making them a popular choice for many users.
Low-Profile Design
Dome cameras are less noticeable than larger bullet cameras, making them harder to tamper with. Their compact size allows them to blend seamlessly into building exteriors, which helps maintain the aesthetic appeal of your property.
Wide Coverage Area
Dome cameras typically have a wide-angle lens, providing expansive coverage. This makes them ideal for monitoring large open spaces like entrances, parking lots, and backyards, where broad visibility is necessary.
Durable Build
Outdoor-rated dome cameras are designed to endure harsh environmental conditions. They are built to resist weather elements like rain, wind, and snow. The sturdy dome housing protects the internal components of the camera, ensuring it continues to work even in tough outdoor environments.
Cons of Using Dome Cameras Outdoors
While dome cameras offer many benefits, they also come with a few drawbacks for outdoor use.
Glare and Reflections
The smooth dome cover can cause glare and reflections when exposed to direct sunlight. This can distort the video footage, especially in bright, open areas. If not positioned correctly, it may reduce the overall clarity of the captured images.
Fixed Angle Limitations
Unlike PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom) or bullet cameras, dome cameras typically have a fixed angle. This means they have less flexibility in covering a wide area. Once mounted, you cannot adjust the camera’s direction without physically repositioning it, which can be limiting in certain situations.
Lower Deterrence Effect
Dome cameras are more discreet and blend into the surroundings, making them less visible to potential intruders. While this can help with aesthetics, it may also reduce the deterrent effect that more prominent, visible cameras like bullet cameras provide.
Potential intruders may not notice them as easily, which could make the security system less intimidating.
Should You Use Dome Cameras Outdoors?
Dome cameras can be a great choice for specific outdoor areas, but there are situations where other camera types may be more suitable.
When Dome Cameras Are the Right Fit
Dome cameras are ideal for areas where you need a wide field of view and protection from tampering. They work well for monitoring entrances, parking lots, and open spaces where clear footage from a fixed angle is enough.
When to Consider Alternatives
If you need more flexibility in camera angles, a bullet camera or PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) camera may be better suited for the job. These offer more adjustable viewing options and better deterrence due to their larger, more visible designs.
Conclusion
So finally, you’ve got your answer of “can you use dome security cameras outdoors? In short, dome cameras are an excellent choice for outdoor security when used in the right situations. Their low-profile design, wide coverage, and durable build make them ideal for areas where you need tamper-resistant and discreet surveillance.
However, their fixed angles and lower deterrence can be drawbacks in some scenarios. So if you need flexibility in camera positioning or enhanced visibility, consider alternatives like bullet or PTZ cameras.
FAQs
Is a dome camera suitable for outdoor use?
Yes, dome cameras can be used outdoors, especially if they come with features like infrared (IR) night vision and weatherproofing. Many dome cameras are designed with IR illuminators and CMOS sensors, allowing them to capture clear footage even in low-light conditions, with ranges up to 30 meters or more.
What are the downsides of dome cameras?
Dome cameras have some limitations. They don’t act as a visible deterrent because of their discreet design. Additionally, their fixed angles make them less flexible compared to PTZ or bullet cameras, requiring a new installation if repositioned. Lastly, the infrared (IR) feature may face issues with glare or “bounceback” that affects image quality at night.
Can an indoor security camera be used outdoors?
No, indoor cameras aren’t suitable for outdoor use. While placing an indoor camera under an eave may protect it from rain, it can still be affected by humidity, fog, or cold temperatures. Indoor cameras lack the durability and weatherproofing necessary to handle the elements outdoors.
Can you install a security camera outside?
Yes, you can install security cameras outdoors, but it’s important to choose cameras specifically designed for outdoor use. Ensure that the camera is positioned properly, away from neighbors’ property, and that you have a clear reason for surveillance. You’ll also need to notify neighbors and display a sign indicating that a recording is happening.
What’s the best type of outdoor security camera?
The best outdoor security camera depends on your needs. For high-quality overall performance, the Arlo Pro 5S 2K is a top choice. If you need a camera for driveway monitoring, the TP-Link Tapo C310 is excellent. For an outdoor camera with a spotlight, the Ring Spotlight Cam Pro is ideal. Other great options include the Arlo Go 2 for LTE connectivity and the Blink Outdoor 4 for long battery life.