A Network Video Recorder (NVR) is a specialized device designed for storing and managing video footage captured by networked IP cameras in a surveillance system. Unlike traditional DVRs, NVRs process video data at the camera, and then stream it to the recorder for storage and remote viewing. This technology allows for higher-resolution video quality, scalability, and flexibility in camera placement, making NVRs an essential component for advanced security and monitoring applications. Here are the key aspects of NVRs:
- Number of Channels: The number of channels refers to the maximum number of IP cameras that an NVR can support. If you only need to monitor a few areas, then a 4-channel or 8-channel NVR may be sufficient. However, if you need to monitor a larger area or multiple locations, then you may need a 16-channel or 32-channel NVR.
- Maximum Resolution: The maximum resolution refers to the highest quality video that an NVR can record. NVRs typically support resolutions ranging from 720p to 4K. If you need to capture high-quality video for identification purposes, then a 4K NVR is the best option. However, if you are on a budget or do not need such high-resolution video, then a 1080p NVR may be sufficient.
- Storage Capacity: The storage capacity of an NVR refers to the amount of video footage that it can store. NVRs typically come with built-in hard drives, ranging from 1TB to 10 TB. The storage capacity you need will depend on the number of cameras you are using, the resolution of the video, and how long you want to retain the footage.
Before choosing a Network Video Recorder (NVR), it’s crucial to consider various features and factors outlined below. Each NVR listed comes with detailed specifications and an accompanying “Buying Guide” to assist in selecting the best one based on individual requirements.
Best Network Video Recorders 2024: List
| Network Video Recorders | No. of Channels | Maximum Resolution | Warranty | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amcrest Network Video Recorders | Up to 8 channels | Up to 8 MP | 1 year long | Check On Amazon |
| REOLINK Network Video Recorder | Up to 8 channels | Up to 8 MP | 2 year long | Check On Amazon |
| SANNCE Network Video Recorder | Up to 8 channels | Up to 8MP | 1 year long | Check On Amazon |
| XMARTO Network Video Recorder | Up to 12 channels | Up to 3 MP | 3 year long | Check On Amazon |
| Anpviz Network Video Recorder | Up to 16 channels | Up to 8 MP | 1 year long | Check On Amazon |
| Lorex Network Video Recorder | Up to 8 channels | Up to 8 MP | 1 year long | Check On Amazon |
| Ubiquiti Network Video Recorder | Up to 20 channels | Up to 8 MP | 1 year long | Check On Amazon |
Best Network Video Recorders Reviews
1. Amcrest Network Video Recorders
The Amcrest NV4108E-HS network video recorder is a top choice for those looking for high-quality yet affordable NVR options. Ranked first on our list, this model is an excellent choice for beginners, offering great value for the money.
It supports up to eight camera channels, allowing users to set up a comprehensive surveillance system. The NVR accommodates cameras with resolutions up to 8 megapixels, ensuring clear and detailed footage.
Additionally, it is compatible with hard drives up to 6 terabytes, providing ample storage for high-resolution video recording. Amcrest also provides a one-year warranty with this NVR, adding an extra layer of reliability for users.
Best Features
| Features | Details |
| No. of Channels | 8 |
| Video Resolution | 4K |
| Max. Supported Storage | 10 TB |
| Video Compression | H.265 |
| Camera Power Source | 48 V DC |
Pros
- Entry-level network video recorder
- High quality video recording and monitoring
- Decently large HDD support
Cons
- Slow USB 2.0 ports for connectivity
2. REOLINK Network Video Recorder
For those new to network video recorders seeking a user-friendly option, Reolink’s products are worth considering. The RLN8-410 network video recorder, ranked second in our guide, is notable for its ease of installation, coming with a 2 TB hard drive included. This feature simplifies the setup process and provides immediate storage capacity for video from up to eight camera channels.
This Reolink NVR supports camera resolutions up to 8 megapixels or 4K, offering high-quality video recording. Despite the included 2 TB drive, it can support hard drives up to 12 TB, allowing for significant storage expansion.
Additionally, Reolink offers a two-year warranty with this NVR unit, ensuring users have peace of mind and reliability in their surveillance setup.
Best Features
| Features | Details |
| No. of Channels | 8 |
| Video Resolution | 4K |
| Max. Supported Storage | 6 TB |
| Video Compression | H.265 |
| Camera Power Source | 52 V DC |
Pros
- Perfect for beginners with included hard drive
- High quality video recording
- Fairly long warranty period
Cons
- A bit too large in size
3. SANNCE Network Video Recorder
SANNCE, a prominent name in security solutions, offers an advanced 8MP Full HD Network Video Recorder (NVR) designed for superior surveillance. It supports up to eight channels for 8MP cameras, allowing for a customizable setup with up to ten 8MP HD camera inputs, ensuring 4K video quality for detailed monitoring.
The device includes eight Power over Ethernet (PoE) ports that comply with IEEE 802.3af/at standards, delivering up to 30W per port for a reliable connection. It also features HDMI and VGA outputs for 4K display, enhancing the viewing experience.
With intelligent detection capabilities, customizable recording, and remote access through the SANNCE App & Client, this NVR offers flexibility and efficient data management using H.264+ compression. This ensures clear images while being cost-effective, making it a versatile choice for various IP camera setups.
Best Features
| Features | Details |
| No. of Channels | 8 |
| Video Resolution | 8K |
| Max. Supported Storage | 12 TB |
| Video Compression | H.264+ |
| Power Per Port | 30 W |
| Camera Power Source | 12 V DC |
| Special Features | Night Vision, Image Sensor |
Pros
- High-resolution video quality
- Advanced features like human/face/vehicle detection and remote access
- Compatibility with SANNCE and other brands’ IP cameras
- Easy setup and use
Cons
- Can be expensive
4. XMARTO Network Video Recorder
XMARTO introduces a cutting-edge 10-channel Wi-Fi Network Video Recorder (NVR), designed to offer clear and comprehensive surveillance. It supports up to 10 cameras at 4K resolution, providing high-quality video monitoring. The NVR’s dual Wi-Fi connectivity, featuring built-in routers, efficiently manages camera connections, ensuring reliable performance without overloading your home network.
The device incorporates the G3 Auto Wi-Fi Relay technology, allowing compatible cameras to serve as Wi-Fi extenders and enhance network coverage. Its advanced H.265+ video compression technology maximizes storage and bandwidth efficiency without compromising video quality.
XMARTO’s NVR supports a 6TB hard drive, offers perpetual free usage, and includes features like optional cloud storage, Alexa voice control, and RTSP compatibility. This combination of features delivers unmatched security and convenience for continuous home surveillance.
Best Features
| Features | Details |
| No. of Channels | 10 |
| Video Resolution | 4K |
| Max. Supported Storage | 6 TB |
| Video Compression | H.265+ |
| Camera Power Source | 12 V DC |
Pros
- Excellent image quality
- Reliable performance
- Wide range of features
- Good value for the price
Cons
- Occasional Wi-Fi connectivity issues
5. Anpviz Network Video Recorder
Anpviz may not be a household name, but its Network Video Recorder (NVR) offerings stand out for those seeking powerful performance at a reasonable price. The Anpviz NVR is highlighted for its excellent value, balancing cost with capabilities effectively. It supports up to 16 cameras with network connectivity, making it ideal for extensive surveillance setups.
This NVR boasts compatibility with cameras up to 8MP, ensuring high-quality video recording. To accommodate the footage from such a broad array of high-resolution cameras, it offers up to 12TB of hard disk storage, facilitating ample video data storage.
Furthermore, Anpviz provides a one-year warranty for its NVR, ensuring reliability and customer satisfaction. This combination of features makes it a compelling option for users in need of a robust surveillance system.
Best Features
| Features | Details |
| No. of Channels | 16 |
| Video Resolution | 4K |
| Max. Supported Storage | 12 TB |
| Video Compression | H.265+ |
| Camera Power Source | ≤ 150W |
Pros
- Superb for large scale installations
- Quite a high storage capacity support
- High value for money NVR unit
Cons
- Limited physical connectivity ports
6. Lorex Network Video Recorder
Lorex is recognized for its premium network video recorders, offering feature-rich options suitable for home use due to their impressive performance. The Lorex N841A82 NVR stands out as a top choice for residential settings. Despite its compact size, it supports up to eight cameras, equipped with smart motion detection and voice control features, making it an ideal home surveillance solution.
This model facilitates recording in high-quality resolution up to 4K or 8MP, ensuring clear and detailed footage. It comes with a 2TB hard drive and can support additional storage up to 6TB, providing ample space for video data.
Lorex enhances customer confidence by including a one-year warranty with this NVR, underscoring its commitment to quality and reliability.
Best Features
| Features | Details |
| No. of Channels | 8 |
| Video Resolution | 4K |
| Max. Supported Storage | 1 TB |
| Video Compression | H.265+ |
Pros
- Handy motion detection and automation features
- Quite high resolution for cameras
- Compact and sleek form factor for home usage
Cons
- A bit on the expensive side
7. Ubiquiti Network Video Recorder
Ubiquiti Networks, renowned for its network devices, also offers a selection of security cameras and network video recorders (NVRs) designed for high performance. The UVC-NVR-2TB model is particularly suited for industrial settings, capable of supporting up to 20 high-quality cameras, making it an excellent choice for extensive surveillance needs at workplaces.
This NVR is optimized for Ubiquiti’s cameras, allowing for recordings in up to 4K or 8MP resolution, ensuring superior video quality. However, it’s worth noting that the included 2TB hard drive represents the unit’s maximum storage capacity.
Ubiquiti maintains its reputation for quality with a one-year warranty on this NVR, providing users with assurance and reliability in their surveillance infrastructure.
Best Features
| Features | Details |
| No. of Channels | 8 |
| Video Resolution | HD |
| Max. Supported Storage | 6 TB |
| Video Compression | H.265+ |
| Power Supply | 250W |
Pros
- Perfect for heavy-duty usage
- Quite a high resolution support
- Inbuilt hard drive for easy installation and setup
Cons
- Slow USB 2.0 ports for connectivity
Buying Guide for the Best Network Video Recorders
When selecting the best Network Video Recorder (NVR) for your security system, it’s essential to consider several critical factors to ensure you choose a device that meets your surveillance needs. Here are three key aspects to evaluate:
1. Number of Channels
Why It Matters: The number of channels on an NVR dictates how many IP cameras it can support simultaneously. This is crucial for scalability and flexibility, allowing you to expand your surveillance system as needed without requiring a completely new recorder.
What to Look For: Determine the current number of cameras you plan to install and consider any future expansions. NVRs can range from 4 to 32 channels or more. For small to medium-sized properties, an 8 to 16-channel NVR might suffice, while larger premises may require 32 channels or more.
2. Maximum Resolution
Why It Matters: The maximum resolution supported by an NVR affects the clarity and detail of the video footage. Higher resolution recording offers more detail, which can be crucial for identifying faces or license plates. However, it also requires more storage space.
What to Look For: Look for an NVR that supports the maximum resolution of your cameras. Common resolutions include 1080p, 4K, and up to 8K. If your cameras are 4K capable, ensure the NVR supports 4K video to maximize the quality of the footage.
3. Storage Capacity
Why It Matters: Storage capacity determines how much video footage the NVR can hold before it needs to overwrite older files or requires manual intervention to clear space. Adequate storage is essential for maintaining a comprehensive video archive, especially in areas with high traffic or 24/7 monitoring needs.
What to Look For: Assess your recording needs based on the number of cameras, their resolution, and how long you wish to retain the footage before it’s overwritten. Storage options can range from a few terabytes (TB) to 20TB or more, and many NVRs offer the capability to add external storage. For high-resolution cameras operating around the clock, opt for higher storage capacity or NVRs with expandable storage options.
4. Video Compression
Why It Matters: Video compression technology reduces the file size of video footage without substantially degrading its quality. Efficient compression saves storage space and bandwidth, enabling longer storage of recordings and smoother remote viewing experiences.
What to Look For: Seek NVRs that support advanced compression standards like H.264, H.265, or newer codecs. H.265, for instance, offers significant improvements over H.264 in terms of compression efficiency, potentially halving the storage and bandwidth requirements for high-quality video.
5. Audio Recording
Why It Matters: Audio recording adds an additional layer of security by capturing sound, which can be crucial for investigations or monitoring specific scenarios where audio cues are essential. Not all NVRs support audio recording, so it’s a key feature to consider if audio surveillance is important to you.
What to Look For: If audio surveillance is a priority, ensure the NVR supports audio recording through compatible IP cameras. Check the number of audio channels available and whether the system allows for synchronous audio-video playback. This is particularly important in environments where audio context is critical to understanding events.
6. Remote Access and Mobile Apps
Why It Matters: In today’s connected world, the ability to access your surveillance footage remotely via smartphones, tablets, or computers is indispensable. It enhances the flexibility and responsiveness of your security system, allowing for real-time monitoring and playback from anywhere.
What to Look For: Opt for NVRs that offer robust remote access capabilities through secure, user-friendly mobile apps and web portals. Look for features such as live viewing, playback, push notifications for motion alerts, and the ability to manage camera settings remotely. Ensure the manufacturer provides regular software updates to keep the system secure and add new features.
7. Compatibility
Why It Matters: Compatibility is crucial to ensure the NVR works seamlessly with your existing or planned IP cameras, sensors, and network infrastructure. An NVR’s compatibility affects not just the type and brand of cameras it can support, but also its integration with other security system components and software.
What to Look For: Verify that the NVR supports the specific make and model of your IP cameras, including any proprietary technologies or features they may utilize. Consider the compatibility with ONVIF (Open Network Video Interface Forum) standards, which facilitate interoperability between different brands and types of network security devices. Additionally, check for compatibility with your network’s bandwidth and protocols to avoid any connectivity issues.
8. Warranty and Support
Why It Matters: The warranty and support services offered by the manufacturer can significantly impact your experience and the longevity of your NVR system. A strong warranty and accessible, responsive support ensure that any issues you encounter can be resolved promptly, minimizing downtime and protecting your investment.
What to Look For: Look for NVRs backed by a comprehensive warranty that covers a significant period, typically one to three years. Assess the manufacturer’s reputation for customer support, including the availability of technical assistance via phone, email, or live chat. It’s also beneficial to consider the ease of accessing firmware updates, troubleshooting guides, and an active user community for additional support.
Best Network Video Recorders: FAQs
Ans: A network video recorder (NVR) is a device used to record and store video footage from surveillance cameras. It operates within a networked environment, capturing and managing video data from multiple cameras connected to the same network. NVRs are commonly employed in security systems to facilitate the storage, retrieval, and management of video recordings for monitoring and analysis purposes
Ans: Yes, if you have surveillance cameras and want to record, store, and manage video footage efficiently.
Ans: NVR and DVR systems usually last about three to five years due to multiple components, making them more susceptible to failures than individual cameras.
Ans: Accessing NVR camera feeds doesn’t require an Internet connection; a display and power suffice. Most NVRs have an integrated network for independent operation.
Conclusion
While you can use any DVR or other recording unit to capture the video from your security cameras, most of them don’t offer remote monitoring. If you want to remotely monitor your IP security cameras, then you will need something that can be connected to the internet. For the same, you can simply go with one of the best network video recorders stated earlier in this listicle.
To allow you to easily go with the right one, all these various network video recorders also have their important features and specifications as well as a detailed buying guide well explained. However, if you are still confused, then you can simply go with one of our favorite picks for the best network video recorders:
- Starting with one of the most affordable network video recorders out there, the XMARTO Network Video Recorder is the cheapest option given above. And even for its given price, it supports a total of 10 video channels that can be used at a maximum resolution of 5 MP for decent video quality. You can use this NVR unit with up to a 6 TB HDD which should be plenty for most.
- Although, if budget is not an issue for you and you want a network video recorder for heavy duty usage, then the Anpviz Network Video Recorder can be a great pick. Since it supports a total of 40 cameras, you can easily use it in a large location. These cameras can have a maximum resolution of 5 MP which is quite decent considering its number of channels.
- The SANNCE Network Video Recorder can be a great value for money pick for many since it supports a total of 8 channels while having a justified price tag. These cameras can work at 8MP or 4K resulting in excellent video quality. And thanks to its dual SATA ports, you can install a total of 12 TB worth of hard drives in it which should be plenty for most.
