Security DVR

What is a security DVR vs. NVR and how does it work?

There are two types of security DVRs; both are standalone video recorders that can work without an internet connection to provide reliable on-site video recording:

• DVR (Digital Video Recorder) - for use with analog security cameras that have BNC ends and send analog video over coaxial wire such as RG59 siamese cable.
• NVR (Network Video Recorder) - for use with IP cameras or PoE cameras that transmit digital video and power over network cabling such as CAT5e or CAT6.

A DVR recorder is commonly referred to as an Analog DVR or Coax DVR, because it allows digital recording of video from analog video sources. Our DVRs support older analog security cameras using composite video (CVBS) as well as newer high-definition digital signals such as HDCVI, HDTVI, and AHD that enable use of up to 4K security cameras over old coaxial cable.

All of the DVRs we sell are XVR recorders, which are hybrid recorders that provide functions of both an Analog DVR and NVR in one box. They allow use of both BNC cameras and IP cameras. There are BNC ports in the back for a direct connection to coax wire, and an additional PoE switch can be used to connect PoE or IP cameras.

NVR recorders can only be used with IP or PoE cameras and do not support Analog cameras. They provide the best possible integration with supported IP cameras to take advantage of AI smart security camera features such as smart motion detection and auto tracking. There are PoE NVRs for up to 16 channel security systems which have built-in PoE ports to allow for easy plug-&-play setup with compatible cameras. For larger systems, professional 4K NVRs can be scaled to support up to 128 cameras per recorder over a local computer network using PoE switches.

Regardless of which type suits you best, both our DVR and NVR offer advanced features including easy to set up remote viewing over the internet from a smartphone, tablet, or computer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best security camera DVR? How do I choose?

Many factors must be considered when choosing the best security DVR for your home or business. The following are some of the most frequently asked questions when shopping for a DVR:

Are you replacing an old DVR or NVR or installing a new system?

Send us an email with the model number of your old system for our team to recommend the best replacement.

Still dealing with an old QSee DVR? Visit our How to Replace a QSEE DVR or NVR guide.

Fed up with Lorex? We show how to replace their equipment in our How to Replace Lorex Security Cameras and Systems article.

Do you want to use your existing coax cameras with new IP cameras?

Consider purchasing one of our hybrid XVR systems that can do just that.

How many channels do you need?

There are security DVRs that support up to 4, 8, 16, and 32 channels.

There are security NVRs that support up to 4, 8, 16, 32, 64, and 128 channels.

Do you intend to add more cameras in the future?

If you start with 4 cameras, consider purchasing an 8-channel recorder to allow for future expansion. Consider getting a 16-channel recorder if you start with 8 cameras, and so forth.

Are you interested in the latest and greatest 4K or 8MP cameras?

Check the specification sheet for analog DVRs to see if the model you want supports 4K 8MP, as some only support up to 2K 4MP.

All of the NVRs we sell support a minimum of 4K at 8MP. Some of our higher-end NVR models are compatible with the best video quality, 4K 12MP security cameras that we have to offer.

Do you have video storage requirements that exceed 3 or 4 weeks?

On most of our models, you can select hard disk combinations that can store up to 3 or 4 weeks of continuous footage. However, for security camera systems with more than 16 cameras or storage requirements of more than 3–4 weeks, you should consider getting one of our larger models that can accommodate 4 or more hard drives.

If you need further assistance choosing a recorder, feel free to contact us by phone or email.

How can I access a security DVR?

Remote viewing apps for iPhone, iPad, and Android phones/tablets are available for our DVRs. We have PC and Mac software for desktop and laptop users. For web browser access, most of our DVRs and NVRs now include HTML5 support, allowing users to view their systems using their preferred browsers such as Chrome, Firefox, Microsoft Edge, and Safari.

Can I get notified on my iPhone or Android when there is motion?

Yes, you can receive push notifications straight to your smartphone by using our remote viewing app. There's no need to worry about the hassle of configuring email alerts or your email provider blocking essential emails.

Can you use any DVR with security cameras?

No, there is a lot that goes on behind the scenes that makes security video technology work. If you try to blend manufacturers, brands, or models, you will run into compatibility concerns. This is especially true when working with NVRs and IP cameras due to the indefinite number of different IP camera protocols.

For example, with analog coaxial systems, there are five major signal formats available, and cameras that are directly compatible with the recorder are required for the system to function.

Resolution is also an issue for both system types. If your camera generates an image that is too big for the recorder to accept, it will not work with that recorder.

Can you use a security DVR without the Internet?

Yes, all of our analog DVRs and IP PoE NVRs work without an Internet connection. They can both accomplish actual closed-circuit television with no outside access. However, internet access is required for remote monitoring via PC software or smartphone apps.

What is a smart DVR?

Smart DVRs use cutting-edge Smart Detection technology. Basic Smart Detection technologies such as Digital Tripwire and Intrusion Detection use artificial intelligence to analyze video in real time to detect whether people, cars, or animals are crossing digital boundaries defined on the camera's image. These technologies assist by only capturing events as they occur, reducing false alerts, making events easier to search for, and using less storage space than regular motion detection.

Some of the more advanced Smart Identification functions include abandoned and missing object detection, face detection or recognition, people counting, heat mapping, and Smart Motion Detection. Because it exclusively detects individuals and cars, Smart Motion Detection is more reliable than traditional video-based motion detection.

Most of our IP cameras and NVR systems support Smart Detection. AI capabilities are only available on a few analog DVR models.

Is there a wireless DVR?

Yes, it is possible to have a wireless NVR system. WiFi NVRs provide a wireless radio network that can be used to connect wireless IP cameras. WiFi IP cameras, however, still require electricity, and there are no DVRs or NVRs that can connect to the internet wirelessly.