Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras have become essential for modern parking management. They use advanced imaging and AI to read vehicle registration plates automatically, helping to control access, enforce parking rules, and enhance security. For off-street parking applications – such as private car parks, gated driveways, or business parking lots – ANPR cameras can enable ticketless, barrier-free entry and exit, saving time and improving convenience for motorists. In 2025, the UK market offers a range of ANPR cameras with impressive accuracy, fast processing, and easy integration. We’ve done our due diligence to compare the top 10 ANPR cameras available in the UK, considering factors like price, accuracy, software compatibility, UK supplier availability, and installation ease. Below are the best picks for 2025, along with their key features and benefits.
1. Hikvision iDS-2CD7A46G0/P-IZHSY (DeepinView Series)
Hikvision is a well-known brand offering budget-friendly yet high-performance ANPR cameras. This model delivers ≥98% license plate recognition accuracy thanks to deep learning algorithms. It comes with motorized zoom lens options to cover distances from about 13 up to 35 meters, suitable for car park entrances. With built-in infrared for night captures and an IP67-rated weatherproof housing, it is durable for outdoor use. Integration with third-party parking and access systems is straightforward, making Hikvision a solid choice for motorists and small operators seeking affordability and reliability.
2. Dahua ITC Series (e.g. ITC413-PW4D)
Dahua Technology offers the ITC series ANPR cameras, designed specifically for parking. These units achieve over 99% recognition accuracy under optimal conditions and can also capture vehicle attributes such as color, type, and brand. With smart IR and warm light LEDs, they perform reliably at night and in poor weather. Easy PoE+ installation and IP66 weatherproofing make them practical for UK conditions. Their onboard database and fast recognition time make Dahua cameras ideal for medium-sized car parks that need advanced features without the premium cost.
3. Axis Q1800-LE License Plate Camera
Axis Communications delivers premium ANPR solutions with the Q1800-LE, a camera designed for high-performance environments. It captures plates at speeds up to 250 km/h and at distances up to 100 meters. Available with or without Axis License Plate Verifier software pre-installed, it supports on-camera analytics and reduces server needs. With durable design, weather shields, and image stabilisation, it is a strong choice for large commercial parking operations where flawless recognition is required.
4. TagMaster CT45 (CitySync) Camera
TagMaster’s CT45 is a specialist parking ANPR camera known for its dual-plate capture technology. It enables ticketless parking with maximized recognition rates and very quick setup. With PoE+ power and Wi-Fi connectivity, installation can take as little as five minutes. The intelligent OCR engine processes plates on the device, providing high accuracy even in low-light conditions. This camera is widely used in UK parking operations where reliability and throughput are essential, such as shopping centres and hospitals.
5. Adaptive Recognition Einar
Adaptive Recognition’s Einar is a compact, all-in-one ANPR camera with dual 8 MP sensors and both IR and white LED illumination. It runs the company’s Carmen ANPR engine onboard, delivering real-time recognition of worldwide plate formats. Triggerless operation, rugged IP67 housing, and multiple lens options make it flexible for car parks, gated lots, or residential driveways. Known for enterprise-level accuracy and ease of integration, it is a strong mid-to-high tier option for those needing plug-and-play reliability.
6. Survision EVOLVING Series
Survision cameras are standalone, serverless ANPR units that deliver guaranteed performance. Each camera includes its own processing, eliminating the need for external PCs. Known for 99%+ accuracy and 20 ms recognition speed, they excel in free-flow parking applications where fast throughput matters. Their one-camera-per-lane approach ensures high capture rates, and they come with warranties that guarantee minimum performance. These premium cameras are best suited for commercial operators needing a hassle-free, high-accuracy solution.
7. Selea Targa Series
Selea’s Targa cameras are professional-grade ANPR systems offering up to 99.8% accuracy. They integrate easily with parking systems and provide advanced software for managing plate data and vehicle classes. With support from major security companies and a focus on precision, these cameras are commonly used by enforcement agencies and private operators alike. Built for outdoor durability and long-term reliability, they provide a solid option for those seeking near-perfect plate recognition.
8. Quercus Technologies SmartLPR Access
Quercus’s SmartLPR Access is marketed as one of the most reliable LPR cameras for parking. It combines all components in one housing and achieves over 99% recognition accuracy worldwide. It supports ticketless, barrierless entry and integrates vehicle classification features. With dual-lighting and robust design, it delivers top performance for large operators such as airports and shopping centres. While premium-priced, it ensures virtually error-free operation, reducing enforcement and operational costs.
9. Genetec AutoVu SharpV
Genetec’s SharpV is an enterprise-level ALPR solution featuring dual HD sensors, onboard AI, and the ability to capture plates at speeds up to 150 mph. Beyond plate reading, it recognises vehicle make, model, and colour, making it powerful for data-driven parking management. With rugged IP66 housing, remote focus, and optional 4G connectivity, it is suitable for large and complex parking environments. It integrates seamlessly into Genetec’s parking management ecosystem, offering cutting-edge analytics.
10. OpenALPR (Rekor Scout/Edge)
Rekor’s OpenALPR platform provides a software-driven approach to ANPR. It can convert standard IP cameras into plate recognition devices or run on dedicated Rekor Edge hardware. Accuracy reaches around 99% under good conditions, and the system supports cloud-based management and integration with pay-by-plate systems. Its subscription-based pricing makes it attractive for smaller operators or tech-savvy motorists wanting scalable, cost-effective ANPR without investing in expensive dedicated cameras.
Comparison Table: Top ANPR Cameras 2025
| Camera Model | Accuracy | Range/Speed | Price Tier | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hikvision DeepinView | ~98% | 13–35 m | Low | Driveways, small car parks |
| Dahua ITC Series | 98–99% | 20–30 m | Low–Mid | Medium car parks |
| Axis Q1800-LE | 99%+ | 100 m / 250 km/h | High | Large sites, councils |
| TagMaster CT45 | 99%+ | Dual plate | Mid–High | Shopping centres, hospitals |
| Adaptive Recognition Einar | 99% | 1.5–80 m | Mid–High | Gated lots, flexible installs |
| Survision EVOLVING | 99%+ | Real-time | High | Free-flow parking |
| Selea Targa | 99.8% | Multi-lane | Mid–High | Enforcement, strict access |
| Quercus SmartLPR Access | 99%+ | 10–25 m | High | Airports, retail parking |
| Genetec AutoVu SharpV | 99%+ | 45 m / 240 km/h | High | Enterprise, city-wide |
| OpenALPR (Rekor) | ~99% | Varies | Low–Mid | Scalable, software-driven |
Conclusion: Choosing the Right ANPR Camera for Your Needs
The best ANPR camera for off-street parking depends on your budget, site conditions, and integration needs:
- For small driveways and private lots, Hikvision and Dahua offer affordable and reliable solutions.
- For large commercial or high-traffic sites, Axis, TagMaster, Quercus, and Genetec provide premium accuracy and advanced features.
- For flexible or scalable systems, Adaptive Recognition, Survision, Selea, or OpenALPR offer a balance of technology and integration options.
By investing in the right ANPR camera, motorists and operators alike can benefit from faster access, higher security, and smoother parking experiences in 2025.
