What Is the Difference Between a Video Camera and a Thermal Imaging Camera?

When it comes to cameras, there are many types available in the market. However, two particular types that often get compared are video cameras and thermal imaging cameras.

While both of them serve different purposes, they share some similarities. In this article, we will discuss the differences between video cameras and thermal imaging cameras.

Video Cameras

What is a Video Camera?

A video camera is an electronic device that records visual images and sound onto a storage device such as a tape, hard disk or memory card. The resulting footage can be played back on a screen or edited with video editing software. These cameras are also called camcorders.

How do Video Cameras Work?

A video camera works by capturing light through a lens and converting it into an electrical signal. This signal is then stored onto a storage device as digital data.

What are the Features of Video Cameras?

Video cameras come with various features such as zoom, autofocus, image stabilization and manual controls for exposure settings such as aperture and shutter speed. They also have built-in microphones for recording audio.

Thermal Imaging Cameras

What is a Thermal Imaging Camera?

A thermal imaging camera is an electronic device that captures images using infrared radiation emitted by objects. These cameras can detect temperature differences of objects and produce an image based on those differences.

How do Thermal Imaging Cameras Work?

Thermal imaging cameras work by detecting heat energy emitted by objects in the form of infrared radiation. They convert this radiation into electrical signals to produce an image.

What are the Features of Thermal Imaging Cameras?

Thermal imaging cameras have features such as color palettes to highlight temperature differences, high-temperature alarms, and adjustable emissivity settings for accurate temperature measurements. They can also be used in low light conditions since they don’t rely on visible light.

Differences Between Video Cameras and Thermal Imaging Cameras

Usage

Video cameras are mostly used for recording visual images and sound, while thermal imaging cameras are used for detecting temperature differences in objects.

Image Output

Video cameras produce images based on visible light, while thermal imaging cameras produce images based on infrared radiation.

Features

Video cameras have features such as zoom, autofocus, and image stabilization, while thermal imaging cameras have features such as color palettes and high-temperature alarms.

Cost

Video cameras are generally less expensive than thermal imaging cameras due to the advanced technology required in the latter.

Conclusion

In conclusion, video cameras and thermal imaging cameras serve different purposes. While video cameras are used for recording visual images and sound, thermal imaging cameras detect temperature differences in objects.

Both types of devices offer unique features that cater to their specific uses. Understanding the differences between them can help you choose which camera is best suited for your needs.