Recommended bitrate settings

Bitrate is one of the most important parameters in video streaming. It represents the amount of data transmitted or recorded per second of video and is typically measured in kilobits or megabits per second (Kbps or Mbps). A higher bitrate generally means more video information is preserved, resulting in better image quality but also increased bandwidth usage and storage requirements.

How Bitrate Is Calculated

The bitrate depends on several core factors: resolution, frame rate, compression codec, and scene complexity. Higher resolution or frame rates increase the amount of visual information that must be encoded and transmitted. Similarly, different compression technologies (H.264 or H.265) determine how efficiently the video data is reduced before streaming or storage. It is also important to take into account the scene complexity - high-motion scenes require higher bitrates than static ones.

For example:

• A 1080p camera at 30 FPS generates significantly more data than the same camera at 15 FPS.

• A system using H.265 compression may require roughly 30–50% less bitrate than H.264 for similar visual quality.

Therefore, selecting the correct bitrate involves balancing video clarity, network bandwidth, and storage capacity.

VBR vs CBR: Why Variable Bitrate Is Recommended

When configuring bitrate, Variable Bitrate (VBR) is generally recommended over Constant Bitrate (CBR) for most surveillance applications. VBR dynamically adjusts the bitrate based on scene complexity - using more data when there is motion or detail, and less when the scene is static. This results in better overall image quality and more efficient storage usage, since bandwidth is not wasted on low-activity footage.

In contrast, CBR maintains a fixed bitrate regardless of scene content, which can lead to unnecessary bandwidth consumption in quiet scenes or reduced image quality during high motion when the fixed limit is insufficient.

That said, CBR still has its place in environments with strict bandwidth constraints or predictable network capacity requirements. However, for most modern IP camera deployments, VBR provides a better balance between quality and efficiency.

Recommended Bitrate Settings

The table below shows approximate bitrate ranges commonly used in security camera systems for continuous recording or streaming.

These ranges assume moderate motion scenes and standard compression settings. High-activity environments such as busy streets or industrial facilities may require higher bitrates to maintain video clarity.