Infrared vs ColourVu vs starlight: CCTV night vision compared
📅 Published: May 2026 ✅ Last updated: 26 May 2026 ⏱ 8 min read 🇬🇧 UK Home Guide
Infrared, ColourVu, and starlight are three technologies used in CCTV cameras for night vision. Infrared uses infrared LEDs to illuminate the scene in black and white. ColourVu captures colour images using an advanced image sensor. Starlight cameras use a high-sensitivity image sensor to capture colour video in low light conditions.
| Camera Type | Price Range (GBP) |
|---|---|
| Infrared | £80-150 per camera |
| ColourVu | £200-400 per camera |
| Starlight | £300-600 per camera |
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable | Black and white only |
| Reliable | Limited range |
| Infrared | |
| --------------- | --------------------- |
| Captures colour | More expensive |
| Better low light performance | Requires more power |
| ColourVu |
When choosing a CCTV camera for night vision, consider the following:
Light conditions: Infrared is sufficient for most applications, but ColourVu and starlight cameras are better in very low light.
Budget: Infrared is the most affordable option, while starlight cameras are the most expensive.
Image quality: ColourVu and starlight cameras capture colour images, which can be more useful than black and white for identification purposes.
Range: Infrared has a shorter range compared to ColourVu and starlight cameras.
Power consumption: ColourVu and starlight cameras require more power than infrared models.
Q: What is the difference between infrared and ColourVu night vision?
A: Infrared uses LEDs to illuminate the scene in black and white, while ColourVu captures colour images using an advanced image sensor. ColourVu provides better low light performance but is more expensive than infrared.
Q: Are starlight cameras better than infrared for night vision?
A: Starlight cameras use a high-sensitivity image sensor to capture colour video in low light conditions, making them superior to infrared for very dark environments. However, they are also more expensive.
Q: Do ColourVu and starlight cameras have any disadvantages compared to infrared?
A: Yes, ColourVu and starlight cameras require more power than infrared models. They can also be more expensive and may have a shorter range in some cases.
Q: Can I use infrared, ColourVu, or starlight cameras for both day and night recording?
A: Yes, all three technologies are suitable for 24/7 recording. However, ColourVu and starlight cameras will provide better image quality in low light conditions compared to infrared.
Q: Are there any British Standards that apply to CCTV night vision cameras?
A: Yes, BS EN 50132 covers the requirements for CCTV systems, including night vision capabilities. Additionally, BS 8233 and BS 5839 relate to sound and fire alarm systems respectively, which may be relevant in certain installations.
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About the Author
Gary Pearce is a certified UK CCTV installer with over 15 years of experience installing home and business security systems across Surrey and the South East. He provides practical, compliance-focused advice to help UK homeowners and businesses get the best possible CCTV protection.
Written by Gary Pearce — certified UK CCTV installer with 15+ years of experience. Need professional advice? Browse resources or call 07830 638 337.
When choosing a CCTV camera for night vision in the UK, it's essential to consider British Standards that apply to these systems. BS EN 50132 specifies requirements for the safety and performance of video signal devices and accessories for fire, emergency, evacuation, and security purposes. This standard covers factors such as image quality, resolution, and low light performance, which are critical for effective night vision.
Additionally, BS 8233 provides guidance on sound design in buildings, including considerations for CCTV systems. It emphasizes the importance of audio and visual quality to ensure clear identification of individuals in recorded footage.
UK GDPR and ICO guidelines must also be taken into account when selecting a CCTV system. The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) sets out rules for handling personal data, including video recordings from CCTV cameras. The Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) enforces these regulations and provides guidance on the use of surveillance cameras in public spaces.
Installing CCTV systems with night vision capabilities requires careful planning and consideration of various factors. In the UK, it is crucial to ensure that the system complies with relevant British Standards and data protection legislation. When installing infrared, ColourVu, or starlight cameras, consider the following practical advice:
Site survey: Conduct a thorough site survey to assess lighting conditions, potential blind spots, and the need for multiple camera angles.
Camera placement: Position cameras to cover critical areas such as entrances, exits, and potential crime hotspots. Ensure that they are mounted at an appropriate height and angle to capture clear images of faces and license plates.
Lighting considerations: If possible, improve lighting around the camera's field of view to enhance its effectiveness in low light conditions. This may involve installing additional floodlights or upgrading existing lighting fixtures.
Power supply: Ensure that the cameras have a reliable power source, either through hardwiring to the main electrical system or using battery-powered models with sufficient capacity for extended operation.
Data storage and retention: Implement a secure data storage solution, such as network-attached storage (NAS) or a cloud-based platform, to protect recorded footage from unauthorized access. Adhere to the UK GDPR's requirements for retaining data, which may vary depending on the purpose of the CCTV system and the nature of the captured images.
Regular maintenance: Schedule regular maintenance checks to clean camera lenses, replace bulbs in infrared models, and update firmware as necessary. This will help ensure optimal performance and longevity of the night vision CCTV system.
When selecting a CCTV installer in the UK, look for professionals who are members of trade associations such as the National Security Inspectorate (NSI) or the Security Institute (SI). These organizations promote high standards of practice and provide guidance on installing and maintaining CCTV systems that comply with relevant British Standards and data protection legislation.