Network video recorders (NVRs) record and store the footage from IP cameras in homes, shops, offices and warehouses. Our range has over 150 models, from 4-channel units to 64-channel systems, mostly from DAHUA, HIKVISION, ABUS SECURITY-CENTER and UBIQUITI.
An NVR receives video over the network, so the cameras connect with Ethernet cable.
How to choose a network video recorder (NVR)
Number of channels. One channel serves one camera. Our range includes 4, 8, 16, 32 and 64-channel models, and if you may add cameras later, it is worth choosing a recorder with spare channels.
Resolution and video format. Many models record up to 3840 x 2160 pixels (4K), some support 7680 x 4320, and there are also 1920 x 1080 units. The resolution should match your cameras, because a recorder cannot show more detail than the camera supplies. H.265 and H.265+ codecs generally take up less space than H.264, so the same disk holds a longer recording.
Storage and retention time. NVR disks connect via SATA, and the maximum supported capacity in our range runs from 6 TB to 26 TB. Disks often have to be bought separately, so choose drives designed for video surveillance, as they are built for continuous writing. How many days you can keep depends on the number of cameras, the resolution and the codec.
Compatibility with cameras. ONVIF support usually lets you combine cameras and a recorder from different makers. Some systems, such as UniFi Protect, work best with cameras from the same manufacturer. Some NVRs have built-in PoE ports, which power the camera through the same cable that carries the video.
Brands we carry
- DAHUA: one of the largest video surveillance manufacturers in the world, offering NVRs from small 4-channel units to large multi-camera systems.
- HIKVISION: a major surveillance maker whose NVRs are common in shops and businesses and support H.265+ compression.
- ABUS SECURITY-CENTER: a German security equipment maker known for both mechanical and electronic protection products.
- AXIS: a Swedish company that developed the first network camera and now focuses on professional surveillance systems.
- UBIQUITI: makes UniFi networking and video products, managed through the UniFi Protect software.
- TP-Link: best known for networking equipment, with surveillance cameras and recorders in its VIGI line.
- IMOU: a Dahua-owned brand line aimed at home and small business surveillance with a mobile app.
- REOLINK: makes PoE cameras and matching recorders for homes and small businesses.
- VERKADA HARDWARE: a cloud-managed surveillance system whose equipment can be monitored through a web browser.
Also in our range: ANKER, AJAX and FOSCAM.
Frequently asked questions about NVRs
What is the difference between an NVR and a DVR?
An NVR records digital video from IP cameras over the network, while a DVR receives an analogue signal from cameras over coaxial cable. The type of camera decides which recorder you need. IP cameras and NVRs generally allow higher resolution.
How many channels do I need on an NVR?
You need as many channels as the cameras you plan to connect, plus some spare. For a home, 4 or 8 channels is usually enough, while offices and warehouses often choose 16 or 32. The 64-channel models are meant for large systems.
What size of hard drive should I choose for an NVR?
The size depends on the number of cameras, the resolution, the codec and how many days of footage you want to keep. More cameras and a higher resolution need more space. Check the maximum capacity the recorder itself supports: in our range it reaches 26 TB.
Can I watch an NVR from my phone?
Most modern NVRs let you watch live video and recordings through the manufacturer's app on a phone or tablet. The recorder needs to be connected to the internet for this. Before buying, it is worth checking which app the chosen model supports.
