HD video terms like 4K and 2160p can confuse many people. These two terms representing ultra-high-definition (UHD) resolution are often used interchangeably, but actually they harbor subtle differences. A clear understanding of these resolutions can help you find security cameras and hardware for your home or office.
In this article, we answer the question "is 2160p 4K?" or fundamentally different. After reading it, you can confidently answer "is 2160p 4K or not" and choose a suitable camera for your security setup.
What Is 4K?
True 4K or Cinema 4K refers to a display resolution of 4096 x 2160 pixels. It comes from the film and video production industry and adheres to the Digital Cinema Initiatives (DCI) standards. Because true 4K has a slightly wider aspect ratio of 1.9:1, it’s ideal for widescreen filming and theatrical releases.
Usually speaking, the term "4K" refers to a resolution with roughly 4,000 horizontal pixel counts. In the consumer media and display industries, the resolution of 3840 × 2160 is the dominant 4K resolution, which is indeed 2160p.
What Is 2160p?
2160p, also known as UHD（Ultra High Definition), refers to the resolution of 3840 × 2160 pixels. Here 'p' stands for progressive scan. To simplify the term of progressive scans, every video frame is drawn consecutively. With 2160 vertical lines, each with 3840 pixels, this resolution yields roughly 8.3 million pixels overall.
Is 2160p the same as 4k? While both refer to the same resolution standard under different names, 4K can be different. The term can refer to a higher resolution of 4096 x 2160 pixels in professional cinema and filmmaking. This highlights a minor variation mostly pertinent in professional circles.
2160p vs 4K: What Are the Differences?
Understanding the nuances between 2160p vs 4K is essential for consumers investing in high-resolution technology. While these terms are often used interchangeably, there are specific contexts where the distinctions become important, especially regarding technical specifications and common usage. Below is a table that highlights the key differences between 2160p and 4K based on various factors:
| Factor | 2160p | 4K (DCI 4K) |
|---|---|---|
| Resolution | 3840 × 2160 pixels | 4096 × 2160 pixels |
| Pixel Count | 8,294,400 (≈ 8.29 MP) | 8,847,360 (≈ 8.85 MP) |
| Aspect Ratio | 16:09 | 1.90:1 (≈ 17:9) |
| Industry Standard | UHD (Ultra High Definition) | DCI (Digital Cinema Initiatives) |
| File Size | Similar to 4K; depends on bitrate and compression | Slightly larger (≈ 6% more pixels) |
| Application | TVs, monitors, streaming, gaming, video production | Cinema projection, professional post-production |
The Features of 2160p/4K Security Cameras
In the context of security cameras, 2160p and 4K are often used interchangeably, both representing a resolution of 3840 × 2160 pixels. While “true” DCI 4K (4096 × 2160) exists in professional cinema, it’s not used in surveillance — so for security applications, 2160p and 4K mean the same UHD resolution, and the same applies to TVs, monitors, and gaming.
When deciding whether to use 2160p/4K cameras, consider the following factors:
1. Image Clarity and Detail
2160p/4K provides four times the pixel count of 1080p, which allows for better facial recognition, license plate reading, and small object detection. So it's more Ideal for wide-area coverage without losing detail.
2. Field of View
Resolution doesn’t directly change FoV — the lens determines how wide the camera can see. However, with 2160p/4K, you can capture a wider FoV while maintaining clarity, because the extra pixels preserve detail even at the edges.
In practice, this means you can monitor larger areas with fewer cameras and digitally zoom in during playback without the image turning blurry as quickly as it would in lower resolutions.
3. Low-Light Performance
2160p/4K cameras don’t automatically perform better in low light. If the sensor size stays the same, 4K means smaller pixels, which capture less light and produce more noise. Budget 4K cameras in low light may actually perform worse than a quality 1080p model.
But many high-end 4K models offset this with larger sensors, backside-illuminated (BSI) designs, wide-aperture lenses, and stronger IR illumination, which brings better low-light performance.
4. Storage and Bandwidth
4K video requires more storage and network bandwidth. For continuous recording, expect larger file sizes and the need for high-capacity NVRs or cloud plans. But using modern compression formats (H.265/H.265+) can help manage storage needs.
5. Future-Proofing
Currently, 2160p/4K cameras best combine efficient storage and bandwidth use with high clarity. The resolution 2160p/4K provides will most likely last decades in the technology era. Choosing a 2160p/4K setup now means the equipment is likely to remain relevant for several years, while offering a longer lifespan than lower-resolution setups.
6. Cost
2160p/4K security cameras are more expensive than lower-resolution models, though prices have been steadily dropping in recent years. Beyond the camera itself, additional costs may include larger storage capacity, higher bandwidth requirements, and compatible 4K equipment such as NVRs and monitors.
Best 4K Security Cameras in 2025
4K security cameras are becoming indispensable for tighter and better surveillance. Smart security capabilities are in high demand for both residential and commercial applications. Two particularly outstanding models for 2025 are the eufycam S330 and the eufy 4G LTE Cam S330. Here are closer views of each 4K security camera:
If you’re ready to try a 4K /2160p security camera to boost your surveillance setup, the eufyCam S3 Pro is a good choice. It delivers 4K resolution with “MaxColor Vision” night clarity, offering day-like image clarity even in ultra-low light conditions without the need for a spotlight.
Key features:
- 4K UHD with MaxColor Vision™ for clear nighttime footage
- Dual motion detection system with radar and PIR sensors
- Local AI for person, vehicle, package, face-and cross-camera tracking
- 16 GB built-in local storage, expandable up to 16 TB with no monthly fees
- SolarPlus™ 2.0 plus a large 13,000mAh battery for consistent power
Who Is It For?
Homeowners with large properties: people who need wide coverage but still want to capture fine details at a distance.
Residents in high-crime or high-risk areas: those who require 24/7 clear, reliable evidence in case of incidents.
Frequent travelers or remote property owners: people who can’t be on-site often and value low-maintenance solutions like solar power and local storage.
Part of the eufyCam 3C series, the eufyCam S330 can spot tiny features on any potential trespasser (human or animal)—even at night. The Starlight photosensitive system enhances low light conditions for clarity in color.
Key Features
- See 4K Detail Day and Night, guarantee no detail is lost by capturing crisp
- Intelligent recognition technology in BionicMind™ AI separates known faces from strangers, improving security by spotting possible hazards
- Solar power option to ensure continuous operation during blackouts
- Massive storage capacity for video recordings with its support for HDD/SDD hardware of up to 16TB
- HomeBase 3 centralizes security management, simplifying the control of your security systems
Who Is It For?
- Eco-conscious users: Those who want to lower energy consumption and ensure their security system is eco-friendly will find appeal in the solar power option.
- Tech-savvy households: Property owners who value smart features like facial recognition will find this camera ideal. The S330 features advanced BionicMind™ AI technology.
- Property owners with large areas to monitor: Larger property owners who require thorough coverage will benefit from the S330. The camera lets you see most areas without juggling multiple devices.
Taking Security Beyond 4K and 2160p: The 16MP Camera
Thinking of taking clarity even further? The eufy PoE NVR Security System S4 Max steps up from 4K with its innovative 16 MP triple-lens bullet-PTZ design — a 4K Bullet Camera and dual 2K PTZ lenses for 360° coverage. When the upper camera detects a subject, the lower PTZ camera locks on, automatically tracking and framing them in a sharp, centered close-up from up to 164 ft away. See colorful nighttime details with AI-ISP processing, activate a spotlight for a clearer view, and use HDR to prevent overexposure.
Key Features:
- 16MP Triple-Lens Bullet + PTZ Camera for 4K wide-view and 2K PTZ zoom (8x, 360° pan)
- Auto-Framing & Group Tracking to follow people or vehicles up to 164 ft away
- Smart Video Search: Instead of scrolling through countless videos, type keywords for instant search results
- Local AI Agent for real-time threat detection with zero latency
- 2TB built-in drive (expandable to 16TB)
Who Is It For?
Owners of high-value properties: Stores, ranches, casinos, and enterprises requiring 24/7 HD monitoring and clear identification of faces, license plates, goods, or assets.
Residents covering key entry points: Perfect for driveways, front yards, and busy storefronts where detail and wide coverage matter.
Managers of locations with higher security risks: Suited for businesses or neighborhoods in high-crime areas that need quick responses to suspicious activity.
Conclusion
Choosing items like security cameras or displays is easier when you can answer the question “is 2160p 4K?”. Although both terms usually refer to the same resolution, they differ slightly in display size and viewing ranges. For TVs, security cameras, and computer monitors, you’ll get your money’s worth when you clearly understand the distinction between 2160p vs 4K.
FAQs
Is 2160p 4K or 8k?
2160p has a display of 3840 x 2160 pixels. Meanwhile, 4K can achieve both 3840 x 2160 and 4096 x 2160 pixels. 8K resolution is far higher, with a display of 7680 x 4320 pixels.
Is 2160p better than 1080p?
Yes, 2160p (also known as 4K) offers four times the number of pixels compared to 1080p. This results in sharper images and more detail, especially on larger screens. However, benefits depend on screen size, viewing distance, and whether the content supports 4K resolution.
Why is 4K not called 2160p?
“4K” refers to the horizontal resolution of ~4,000 pixels, whereas “2160p” specifies the vertical resolution of 2160 pixels. “4K” comes from digital cinema standards, while “2160p” follows HDTV naming conventions like 1080p.
What is the difference between 4K UHD and 4K 2160p?
They refer to the same resolution, 3840 x 2160 pixels. “4K UHD” is the consumer term for Ultra High Definition, while “2160p” specifies the vertical resolution in pixels.