Every wired CCTV system needs a recorder, and the two main types are NVRs and DVRs. They look similar, but they work with different kinds of cameras. Choosing the right one affects your image quality, wiring, and how easily you can expand the system later.
What is a DVR?
A DVR (digital video recorder) works with analogue cameras. Each camera connects to the DVR with coaxial cable, and the DVR converts the analogue signal into digital video and records it. Modern analogue HD systems can deliver good image quality, and DVRs are common when upgrading older systems that already have coaxial cable installed.
Many newer recorders are XVRs (hybrid recorders), which accept analogue HD cameras and also support some IP cameras. They are useful when you want to keep existing analogue cameras and add a few IP cameras.
What is an NVR?
An NVR (network video recorder) works with IP cameras. Each IP camera processes its own video and sends it digitally over a network cable. Many NVRs have built-in PoE ports, so one network cable to each camera carries both power and video. Read more in PoE for CCTV explained.
The key differences
- Cameras: a DVR uses analogue cameras; an NVR uses IP cameras
- Cabling: a DVR uses coaxial cable plus separate power; an NVR uses network cable, often with PoE
- Image quality: IP cameras generally offer higher resolutions and more flexibility
- Smart features: IP systems usually offer more advanced detection, such as line-crossing and intrusion alerts
- Flexibility: IP cameras can connect through network switches, which makes it easier to place cameras far from the recorder or across several buildings
- Cost: analogue systems can be cheaper to start with, especially when coaxial cable is already in place
Which should you choose?
Choose an NVR with IP cameras if you are installing a new system and want the best image quality, smart features, and easy future expansion. For most new homes and businesses, this is the recommended option.
Choose a DVR or XVR if you already have coaxial cabling and working analogue cameras, or if you want the lowest starting cost for a basic system.
How many channels do you need?
The number of channels is the number of cameras the recorder can handle. Common sizes are 4, 8, 16, and 32 channels. Choose a recorder with a few spare channels so you can add cameras later without replacing it. An 8-channel recorder is a good fit for many homes, while shops and offices often need 16 channels.
Storage
Both NVRs and DVRs record to hard drives inside the recorder. How much storage you need depends on the number of cameras, resolution, and how many days of footage you want to keep. Our CCTV storage guide explains how to work it out.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use IP cameras with a DVR?
Standard DVRs only work with analogue cameras. Hybrid recorders (XVRs) can accept analogue cameras plus a limited number of IP cameras. For a system that is mostly IP cameras, use an NVR.
Do I need a PoE switch with an NVR?
Not always. Many NVRs have built-in PoE ports that power the cameras directly. A separate PoE switch is useful for larger systems or when cameras are far from the recorder.
Can I upgrade from a DVR to an NVR?
Yes. Upgrading means replacing the analogue cameras with IP cameras and running network cable to each position. Some installations keep existing cameras running on an XVR while adding IP cameras over time.
Get the right recorder for your system
Browse our NVR systems and CCTV kits, or ask for a free site survey through our CCTV installation service and we will recommend the right recorder for your cameras.