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AI vs traditional CCTV: What's the difference?

  • Writer: Netmarks Singapore
    Netmarks Singapore
  • Jul 13
  • 2 min read

In Singapore’s digital landscape, CCTV security cameras have become more than just passive recording devices, they have become silent enforcers for public safety.


The Singapore government recently announced plans to double the number of CCTV cameras from 90,000 to 180,000 by 2030, after reporting that over 4,095 offences were solved with CCTV evidence in 2020. This demonstrates how crucial surveillance systems are, not only for crime prevention but also for investigations and community safety.


AI-Powered CCTV vs. Traditional CCTV image; black and white cameras, blue and red backgrounds, "Netmarks Singapore" logo, security screens.

But for businesses, the question remains: is a traditional CCTV system enough, or should you invest in an AI-powered CCTV solution?


Traditional CCTV: Reliable but Limited

Traditional CCTV systems have served businesses well for decades. They provide:

  • Continuous recording of video footage

  • Remote playback for incident investigation

  • Basic deterrence against intruders


However, conventional CCTV security cameras have major limitations in today’s digital landscape:

  • Reactive, not proactive — Only useful after an incident occurs

  • High bandwidth & storage costs — Cloud-heavy models increase expenses

  • No intelligence — Can’t detect threats automatically, requiring human monitoring

  • Scalability issues — Harder to expand when adding new sites or devices


For businesses facing more sophisticated risks—from theft to workplace safety—traditional surveillance alone is no longer enough.


AI Security Cameras: Smarter Business Protection

Unlike conventional systems, AI security cameras leverage on real-time intelligence. They don’t just record events—they analyse them. With features like anomaly detection, weapon recognition, and people/vehicle tracking, businesses can be proactive about their surveillance capabilities.


For enterprises, the benefits are clear:

  • Faster response to threats

  • Reduced false alarms

  • Centralised monitoring across multiple sites

  • Data driven insights for safety and compliance


How AI powered CCTVs redefine surveillance and security


Black security camera and VAISENSE AI CCTV device in focus, with multiple surveillance screens in the background showing industrial scenes.
The Lilin 7 series AI powered range

While many brands claim to offer “AI-powered” cameras, Lilin's AI powered CCTV cameras presents a practical application.


Edge-Powered AI Processing

Instead of sending every video feed to the cloud, it uses an Ambarella CV22 edge-AI processor which means:

  • Lower cloud bandwidth & storage costs

  • Faster latency for real-time alerts

  • Higher privacy standards (footage stays on-premises)


Key AI powered video analytics functions include:

  • Perimeter Person, Vehicle and Object Detection

  • Face Mask Detection

  • Person and Vehicle Counting

  • Helmet and Safety Vest Detection

  • Black Smoke Detection

  • License Plate Recognition

  • Traffic Enforcement

  • Vessel Detection

  • Animal Detection


Turning CCTVs into 'preventing' instead of 'reacting'

  • Reduced Human Error – Smart video analytics captures missed incidents from operator fatigue.

  • Optimised Resources – Remote management means fewer staff are needed for basic monitoring.

  • Early Threat Detection – Receive real-time alerts before situations escalate, enabling proactive response.


Contact us today at enquiries@netmarks.com.sg or WhatsApp us at +65 8902 3303 to explore how AI powered CCTV can transform your business security.





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