In today’s world, security has become a top priority for homeowners, businesses, and even public spaces. One of the most effective and affordable ways to ensure safety is by installing CCTV (Closed-Circuit Television) cameras. Whether you want to monitor your home, office, shop, or warehouse, a CCTV system provides peace of mind and round-the-clock surveillance. However, one of the most common questions people ask before investing in a CCTV setup is: “How much does it cost to install one CCTV?”

The answer depends on several factors, including the type of CCTV camera, installation charges, additional equipment, and service provider. Let’s break it down in detail.

Factors Affecting the Cost of CCTV Installation

1. Type of CCTV Camera

There are different types of cameras available, each designed for specific needs.

• Dome Cameras – Popular for indoor use, especially in homes, offices, and shops. They are cost-effective and offer decent quality.

• Bullet Cameras – Designed for outdoor surveillance with long-range visibility. Slightly costlier than dome cameras.

• IP Cameras – These cameras connect through the internet and provide high-resolution images. They are more expensive than analog cameras.

• PTZ Cameras – Pan-Tilt-Zoom cameras allow you to rotate and zoom remotely. These are high-end and usually used in commercial or industrial spaces.

The price of a camera can range anywhere from ₹1,200 to ₹25,000 or more, depending on features like resolution, night vision, motion detection, and wireless capability.

2. Resolution and Image Quality

The higher the resolution, the clearer the footage.

• A 2MP camera may cost around ₹1,200–₹2,500.

• A 4MP or 5MP camera ranges from ₹3,000–₹6,000.

• An 8MP or 4K camera may go up to ₹8,000–₹15,000.

If you are only installing one CCTV, investing in a higher-resolution camera might make sense since it will be your primary source of surveillance.

3. Installation Charges

The installation cost depends on the complexity of the work.

• Basic installation of one CCTV can cost ₹500–₹1,500.

• If you require extra wiring, drilling, or setup with DVR/NVR, the charges may go up to ₹2,500–₹5,000.

• Wireless CCTV cameras often have lower installation costs since they don’t require extensive wiring.

4. Additional Equipment

When installing CCTV, you might need more than just the camera:

• DVR/NVR (Digital or Network Video Recorder): Stores the recorded footage. Cost ranges from ₹3,000 to ₹10,000 depending on capacity.

• Hard Drive: Needed for recording storage. A 1TB hard drive costs about ₹3,000–₹4,000.

• Power Supply & Adapters: Around ₹500–₹1,000.

• Cables & Connectors: Typically ₹500–₹2,000, depending on length.

For just one CCTV camera, you might avoid a DVR if you choose a Wi-Fi-enabled camera that stores footage directly on a memory card or cloud.

5. Wired vs. Wireless Cameras

• Wired cameras are generally cheaper but require extra wiring and labor, which adds to installation costs.

• Wireless cameras are easier to install, costlier upfront, but save on wiring expenses.

A wireless CCTV camera can range from ₹2,500 to ₹7,000 for a good-quality model.

Average Cost of Installing One CCTV in India

To give you a clear idea, here’s an approximate breakdown:

• Budget Option (Basic Dome Camera):

  • Camera: ₹1,500–₹2,000

  • Installation: ₹1,000

  • Total: Around ₹2,500–₹3,500

• Mid-Range Option (Good Quality IP Camera):

  • Camera: ₹4,000–₹6,000

  • Installation: ₹1,500

  • Optional hard drive/cloud: ₹2,000–₹3,000

  • Total: Around ₹7,500–₹10,000

• Premium Option (4K Wireless or PTZ Camera):

  • Camera: ₹10,000–₹20,000

  • Installation: ₹2,000–₹3,000

  • Additional accessories: ₹3,000+

  • Total: Around ₹15,000–₹25,000

Why Professional Installation Matters

Some people prefer DIY installation to save costs. While this works for wireless plug-and-play cameras, professional installation ensures:

• Proper camera angle and coverage.

• Secure wiring and stable power supply.

• Integration with DVR/NVR or mobile apps.

• Long-term reliability.

For just one camera, DIY might be fine, but if security is crucial, hiring a professional installer gives better peace of mind.

Conclusion

The cost of installing one CCTV depends on your budget, purpose, and the type of camera you choose. On average, you can expect to spend anywhere between ₹3,000 and ₹10,000 for a reliable setup. Basic models are affordable, while advanced IP or PTZ cameras with higher resolution and smart features cost more.

If security is a top priority, consider it an investment rather than an expense. A single CCTV camera can act as a strong deterrent against theft, trespassing, and vandalism while keeping your loved ones and property safe.