Mobile CCTV Cameras & Systems
SIM-enabled 4G & 5G bullet, dome and PTZ cameras, mobile DVRs and complete systems — just insert a SIM and go.
A mobile CCTV system gives you professional surveillance anywhere, without WiFi or broadband. 4G and 5G Mobile CCTV cameras eliminate the need for fixed internet entirely. Insert a standard data SIM card and the camera connects to the mobile network, streaming live video directly to your phone or NVR. Available in bullet, dome and PTZ form factors with resolutions from 2MP to 8MP 4K. These cameras are ideal for any location where running Ethernet or relying on WiFi isn't practical — from remote barns and warehouses to vehicle dashcams and rapid-deploy security kits. With 5G models now available, you get ultra-low latency streaming suitable for AI analytics and real-time monitoring.
What is mobile CCTV?
Mobile CCTV is surveillance that doesn't depend on a fixed internet line. The cameras have a SIM card built in, so they send live video and alerts over 4G or 5G mobile networks. Many run from solar panels and batteries too, which means they can go anywhere: a building site, a field, a car park, an event or a vacant property. Because nothing needs to be cabled back to a building, a mobile CCTV camera can be installed in minutes and moved when the job moves.
Mobile CCTV vs portable CCTV
The terms overlap, and both describe cameras you can put up and take down quickly.
- Mobile CCTV cameras connect over 4G or 5G. They are usually mounted on a pole, wall or structure and stay in place for weeks or months.
- Portable CCTV usually means a self-contained unit, such as a solar tower, tripod kit or rapid-deploy camera, that can be moved between locations with no installation work.
Most of our systems do both: a SIM-connected camera, powered by solar or battery, that can be re-sited in under an hour.
Where mobile CCTV is used
- Construction sites: protect plant, tools and materials before any power or broadband is installed.
- Farms and rural land: watch gateways, yards, livestock and machinery without running cable across fields.
- Vacant and void properties: deter break-ins, squatters and fly-tipping.
- Events and temporary sites: cover car parks, entrances and compounds for the length of the event.
- Remote assets: substations, solar parks, telecom masts and water sites.
What does mobile CCTV cost to run?
Two ongoing costs matter: the data SIM and power.
- Data: cameras that record on motion and send clips use far less data than cameras streaming live all day. For most sites a mid-sized monthly data plan is enough. Heavy live viewing pushes usage up.
- Power: solar-powered cameras have no electricity cost. Mains-powered cameras use very little.
We can recommend a SIM and data plan for your site when you order. Call us on +44 (0)20 7096 8420.
Key features
- No WiFi or Broadband Needed. Works on 4G LTE or 5G mobile networks with any UK data SIM. Perfect for locations without internet.
- Up to 8MP 4K Resolution. Crystal-clear video day and night. Sony STARVIS sensors for exceptional low-light performance.
- IR Night Vision to 150m. Built-in infrared LEDs provide clear black-and-white footage up to 150 metres in total darkness.
- Two-Way Audio. Built-in microphone and speaker for live audio monitoring and verbal deterrent warnings.
- Smart AI Detection. Human and vehicle detection reduces false alerts from animals, weather and foliage movement.
- Remote PTZ Control. Pan, tilt and zoom from your phone. 360° rotation with 20x optical zoom on PTZ models.
What SIM and data plan do I need?
Any standard UK data SIM works — EE, Vodafone, O2 or Three. The cameras are unlocked, so you can bring your own SIM or buy a pre-configured one from us. Check signal strength at your site before choosing a network; most cameras support dual-SIM failover on models that offer it, automatically switching if one network drops.
Expect to use 10–50 GB per month for a 1080p camera on motion recording, or 60–100 GB for continuous streaming. 4K cameras use significantly more. We recommend a data-only SIM with at least 50 GB allowance to start, then adjust based on your actual usage in the first month.
Frequently asked questions
How much data does a 4G camera use?
A 1080p camera streaming 24/7 typically uses 60–100 GB per month, while 4K uses around 200 GB or more. Switching to motion-only recording dramatically reduces data usage.
Can I connect multiple cameras to one SIM?
Yes — use a 4G router with a single SIM to create a local network, then connect multiple cameras via Ethernet or WiFi to share the same data connection.
What's the difference between 4G and 5G cameras?
5G cameras offer faster upload speeds (50–100 Mbps vs 10–30 Mbps), lower latency and better support for 4K streaming and real-time AI analytics.
How long does installation take?
Most customers have a 4G camera up and running in under 30 minutes. Just mount the bracket, insert your SIM, connect power and scan the QR code with the app.
Do I need planning permission to install a mobile CCTV camera?
Generally no for domestic use, but cameras must not overlook neighbouring properties excessively. Commercial sites may have additional signage requirements.
Can I add more cameras later?
Absolutely. You can add extra 4G cameras on separate SIMs, or connect them all through a single 4G router to keep costs down.
What happens if the mobile signal is weak at my site?
Most 4G cameras have external antenna sockets so you can fit a high-gain aerial or relocate the antenna to a spot with better signal strength.
How does mobile CCTV work without WiFi?
Each camera has a SIM card, like a mobile phone. It connects to the nearest 4G or 5G mast and sends video and alerts over the mobile network to your phone, computer or recorder.
Is 4G enough, or do I need 5G CCTV?
4G is enough for most sites, especially with motion-triggered recording. 5G is worth it for high-resolution live streaming, multiple cameras on one connection, or AI analytics that need low latency. You need 5G coverage at the site to benefit.
Can mobile CCTV record without signal?
Most cameras also record to a memory card, so they keep recording if the mobile signal drops, and you can view the footage when the connection returns.