Network video recorders

Network video recorders (NVRs) store and manage footage from IP cameras on your network, for homes, shops, offices and larger sites. Our range covers over 90 models, from small recorders for a few cameras to professional systems, with brands such as Dahua, Hikvision, ABUS Security-Center and Ubiquiti.

How to choose a network video recorder

Number of channels. Each camera uses one channel, so count the cameras you have now and leave room for future additions. Recorders are sold in fixed channel sizes, and buying one size up is usually cheaper than replacing the unit later.

PoE ports. Many NVRs have a built-in PoE switch, so each camera gets power and data over a single network cable. If the recorder has no PoE ports, you will need a separate PoE switch, which adds another device to install.

Storage and recording quality. Check how many hard drive bays the recorder has and the largest drive size it accepts. Higher camera resolutions, continuous recording and more days of history all fill the disks faster. Some recorders are supplied without a drive, so confirm this in the specification.

Camera compatibility. Recorders from the same maker as your cameras are the simplest match. Models that support the ONVIF standard can often work with cameras from other brands, while systems such as UniFi Protect, Verkada and Nx Witness are built around their own ecosystems. If you want two-way audio or sound recording, look at the supported audio formats: G.711 and PCM are listed on several recorders in our range, and some also support G.726.

Connections and operating conditions. One or two USB 2.0 ports are common in our range, and they are used for a mouse or for copying footage to a USB drive. Operating humidity of 10 to 90% is typical for indoor recorders, so a damp utility room or an unventilated cupboard is not a good place for one.

Network video recorder brands we carry

• Dahua: a major video surveillance manufacturer with the largest number of recorders in our range, covering small PoE units to multi-bay models.
• Hikvision: one of the largest surveillance manufacturers in the world, known for recorders that pair with its own IP cameras.
• ABUS Security-Center: a German security specialist whose recorders are aimed at homes and small businesses.
• Ubiquiti: makes the recorders and controllers behind the UniFi Protect video system, which is managed alongside UniFi networking gear.
• Verkada: known for cloud-managed security systems that are administered through a web dashboard.
• Axis: a Swedish company credited with launching the first network camera, now focused on professional installations.
• Network Optix: develops the Nx Witness video management software, which runs on a wide variety of hardware.
• Reolink and Imou: home and small-office brands, and Imou is the consumer brand of Dahua.
• TP-Link: offers the VIGI range of business surveillance products alongside its networking equipment.

Also in our range: Foscam and Ajax.

Network video recorder FAQ

What is the difference between an NVR and a DVR?

An NVR records digital video from IP cameras over a network, while a DVR records analogue camera signals sent over coaxial cable. NVRs process the video in the camera, so the recorder mainly stores and manages it. If your cameras connect by network cable or Wi-Fi, you need an NVR.

How many cameras can a network video recorder support?

It depends on the model, because each recorder has a fixed number of channels. Smaller units handle a handful of cameras, and professional recorders handle many more. Check the channel count in the product specification and choose one with spare capacity.

Do I need an NVR with PoE ports?

A PoE NVR is the easiest choice if you want to connect cameras directly, because one cable carries both power and video. Without PoE ports you need a separate PoE switch or a power adapter for each camera. Make sure the PoE ports match the number of cameras you plan to connect.

How much storage does a network video recorder need?

The amount depends on the number of cameras, their resolution, the compression format and how many days of footage you want to keep. Recording only when motion is detected uses far less space than recording continuously. H.265 compression also reduces file sizes compared with H.264, if both the cameras and the recorder support it.