2025 Optical Zoom Autotracking PTZ Recommendations

[nonono]

I've been searching the forum for recommendations on an optical zoom, autotracking PTZ. But, most of what I'm seeing is small sensor size or out of stock.

My use-case is augmenting fixed cameras in an alley. I'd like to experiment with what's possible by on-device AI-driven zoom/tracking. My immediate area is well lit, but past 40' the lighting is poor. Reference photo attached (motion lighting is off/dim).

 

[camdensnyder]

Do you have a power supply out there to run a PTZ?

 

[nonono]

Do you have a power supply out there to run a PTZ?

Yep, I can power it from garage

 

[wittaj]

Here are the PTZs we would recommend.

Best overall value on the ideal MP/sensor ratio:

https://www.amazon.com/EmpireTech-SD5A425XA-HNR-Starlight-Auto-Tracking-IVSEnglish/dp/B08GKQSK2W


Cheapest ones but will struggle at night due to less than ideal MP/sensor ratio:

https://www.amazon.com/EmpireTech-Full-Color-Illuminator-Auto-Tracking-PTZ4M-25X-PV/dp/B0CN8JG6TF?ref_=ast_sto_dp

https://www.amazon.com/EmpireTech-Starlight-5mm-125mm-Auto-Tracking-Protection/dp/B0BPH7L1Z1?ref_=ast_sto_dp


Open up the wallet for a great night experience:

EmpireTech PTZ4K45X-AI 1/1.2'' CMOS 8MP 45x 8mm–360mm Vari-Focal PTZ C​

1/1.2" 8Megapixel STARVIS CMOS | 45x optical zoom | Ultra light sensitivity | Max. 25/30 fps@4K | Auto-tracking | Perimeter protection | Face detection | Face recognition | Metadata | SMD Plus | IP67 | Dual light fusion | Electronic defog | Wiper

 

[biggen]

I agree that the PTZ5A4M-25X will be the best PTZ you can buy under $1k. Several of run them here. Just be aware, it’s a big ptz. 15lbs worth of metal.