Mobile vs Fixed Surveillance: Which Security System is Right for You?
Deploy in 30 minutes vs weeks of installation. Zero infrastructure vs $50,000+ setup costs.
Quick Facts
- • No installation or permits needed
- • Works without power or internet
- • Professional monitoring included
- • Maintenance handled by provider
- • Scale up or down instantly
Side-by-Side System Comparison
Mobile Surveillance Trailer
Operating in 30 minutes, no waiting
Solar panels with battery backup
4G LTE connection included
Move to new locations as needed
Provider handles everything
Daily, weekly, or monthly rental
Fixed Camera System
2-4 weeks installation time
Must wire to power source
Ethernet or WiFi setup needed
Cannot relocate without reinstall
Your responsibility to maintain
High upfront purchase cost
Real Cost Breakdown: Mobile vs Fixed Systems
Cost by Project Duration
3-Month Construction Project
- Rental: $8,000 × 3 = $24,000
- Setup: $0
- Total: $24,000
- Installation: $25,000
- Equipment: $15,000
- Removal: $5,000
- Total: $45,000
12-Month Project
- Rental: $8,000 × 12 = $96,000
- Setup: $0
- Total: $96,000
- Installation: $25,000
- Equipment: $15,000
- Monitoring: $500 × 12 = $6,000
- Total: $46,000
Permanent Installation (5+ Years)
- Rental: $8,000 × 60 = $480,000
- Setup: $0
- Total: $480,000
- Installation: $25,000
- Equipment: $15,000
- Monitoring: $500 × 60 = $30,000
- Maintenance: $15,000
- Total: $85,000
Mobile Surveillance Trailers vs Fixed Camera Systems
| Feature | Mobile Surveillance | Fixed Cameras |
|---|---|---|
| Installation Cost | ✓ $0 (included) | $10,000-50,000+ |
| Setup Time | ✓ 30 minutes | 2-4 weeks |
| Flexibility | ✓ Move anytime | Permanent installation |
| Power Requirements | ✓ Solar/battery powered | Electrical installation required |
| Internet Requirements | ✓ Built-in 4G LTE | Network cabling required |
| Maintenance | ✓ Provider handles all | Your responsibility |
| Scalability | ✓ Add/remove units easily | Complex expansion |
| Image Quality | 4K HD cameras | Varies by system |
| Temporary Projects | ✓ Perfect for short-term | Not cost-effective |
| Long-term (5+ years) | Higher total cost | ✓ Lower total cost |
Mobile Surveillance
Fixed Cameras
Best Use Cases for Each System
Mobile Surveillance Best For:
- ✓ Construction Sites
Move units as project phases change
- ✓ Special Events
Temporary coverage for festivals, concerts
- ✓ Emergency Response
Immediate deployment for incidents
- ✓ Remote Locations
No power or internet infrastructure
- ✓ Seasonal Needs
Holiday lots, seasonal storage
- ✓ Testing Security
Try before permanent installation
Fixed Cameras Best For:
- ✓ Permanent Facilities
Warehouses, offices, retail stores
- ✓ Indoor Coverage
Hallways, rooms, indoor areas
- ✓ Integrated Systems
Connect with access control, alarms
- ✓ High Camera Count
20+ cameras for complex coverage
- ✓ Owned Properties
Long-term investment in owned buildings
- ✓ Aesthetic Concerns
Discrete, hidden camera needs
Quick Decision Guide
Answer these questions to find your best solution:
Need security TODAY?
→ Mobile surveillance (30-minute setup)
Project duration under 18 months?
→ Mobile surveillance (more cost-effective)
No power or internet available?
→ Mobile surveillance (self-contained)
Permanent facility for 5+ years?
→ Fixed cameras (long-term savings)
Need indoor coverage?
→ Fixed cameras (better for interiors)
Integrating with existing systems?
→ Fixed cameras (easier integration)
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between mobile and fixed surveillance systems?
Mobile surveillance trailers are self-contained units that can be deployed in 30 minutes without installation. Fixed systems require permanent installation with power and network infrastructure, taking 2-4 weeks to install.
Is mobile surveillance more expensive than fixed cameras?
For projects under 2 years, mobile surveillance is typically more cost-effective with no installation costs. Fixed systems have high upfront costs ($10,000-50,000+) but lower monthly costs for long-term use.
Can mobile surveillance trailers work without power?
Yes, mobile surveillance trailers are completely self-sufficient with solar panels and battery backup, requiring no external power source. They can operate indefinitely in remote locations.
How quickly can I get mobile surveillance deployed?
Mobile surveillance can be delivered and operational within 2-4 hours for emergency situations, or same-day for standard requests. Setup takes only 30 minutes once on-site.
What happens if my security needs change?
Mobile surveillance offers complete flexibility - add more units, relocate to new areas, or return units when no longer needed. Fixed systems require new installation for any changes.
Get Expert Advice on Your Security Needs
Free consultation to determine whether mobile or fixed surveillance is right for your specific situation.