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Choosing between a DVR (digital video recorder) and an NVR (network video recorder) system affects more than just how you record footage. It changes your total cost, video clarity, and how long you keep important recordings.
This guide explains DVR vs NVR in plain language, so you know:
We’ll also explore an emerging third option, a cloud camera system.
Another option that we need to cite here is the Analog HD. You can get 720p resolution with your existing analog system without having to rewire coaxial cables (you can just reuse them to get 720p resolution).
Ultimately, we’ll explain how Solink—our cloud video security system—helps you increase the capabilities of either DVR or NVR without incurring high costs.
Let’s get started!
Both DVR (digital video recorder) and NVR (network video recorder) systems capture and store video from your security cameras so you can review it later. The difference is in how they process and transmit that footage.
DVR systems work with analog cameras. These cameras can’t process video themselves, so they send an unprocessed feed through coaxial cables to the recorder, which handles all the video processing.
The DVR processes the raw feed into a digital format, making it ready for storage or live viewing.
NVR systems work differently. They use digital IP (Internet Protocol) cameras that handle video processing at the source. Once processed, the video is sent to the recorder over an ethernet cable, allowing for higher resolution and more flexible installation options.
Here’s a summary of these key differences:
| DVR | NVR | |
| Full name | Digital Video Recorder | Network Video Recorder |
| Camera type | Analog cameras | IP (Internet Protocol) cameras |
| Transmission | Coaxial cables | Ethernet cables or WiFi |
| Video processing | At recorder | In cameras |
| Records | Video | Video & audio |
Think of a DVR like a cable box. It connects directly to your TV with a cable and can only record content from that setup in one location.
An NVR is more like a streaming service. As long as you’re on the same network, you can access cameras from anywhere in your home or business over Wi-Fi or ethernet.
For further analysis on the difference between analog and IP video security, check out this breakdown by Security Magazine.
The most important difference is mainly around the resolution, hence quality of video, you get from these 2 options.
Analog has low resolution options, IP has very high resolution options. You get to decide what you want.
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Video quality can make or break a camera system. NVRs typically store higher-resolution footage and often include built-in audio recording for a fuller security record.
DVRs, on the other hand, may not match the same video clarity. They also require extra equipment to capture audio, which can make setup more complex and reduce sound quality.
Installing an NVR system is simpler thanks to Power over Ethernet (PoE) technology, which sends both power and data through one cable. This reduces clutter, speeds up installation, and makes cable management easier.
DVR systems typically need separate cables for power and video, which can increase labor time and complexity. The flexibility of NVR setups also makes future changes—like adding more cameras or relocating them—less invasive and often more cost-effective. Plus, PoE technology supports longer cable runs without signal loss, giving more freedom in camera placement.
Scalability is a core feature of modern NVR systems, accommodating business growth with ease. As security needs expand, NVRs can seamlessly integrate additional cameras into the network. DVR systems, however, present a challenge with fixed inputs, limiting the number of cameras that can be added and potentially rendering them obsolete as a business’s needs evolve.
Note that only technology-agnostic video security solutions like Solink are compatible with a variety of camera brands.
NVR systems are built for remote access, letting you view and manage footage from anywhere with an internet connection. This connectivity also enables cloud storage, adding extra protection against data loss.
DVR systems, by comparison, often require you to be on-site to retrieve or review footage. This limits flexibility and can slow response times for businesses that need real-time oversight.
For many businesses, especially those with multiple locations, remote video monitoring is an essential feature of a modern security system.
Network video recorder (NVR) camera systems are the newer option and have become more popular thanks to their convenience and advanced features.
In an NVR setup, IP cameras capture and process video before sending it to the recorder. This can be done wirelessly—where cameras connect to a power source and transmit footage over Wi-Fi—or through a wired connection using PoE (Power over Ethernet). PoE cables deliver both power and video in one line, simplifying installation and reducing cable clutter.
NVR systems consist of the following components:
IP cameras: NVR systems use IP cameras, which encode and process video data before sending it to the recorder. IP cameras can record and transmit both video and audio data. Some IP cameras support local recording on microSD cards, or feature advanced features like video analytics, noise reduction, or facial recognition.
There are two types if IP cameras:
Not all IP cameras are compatible with every NVR system, so check that the recorder supports the manufacturer, resolution, and bitrate of the cameras you’re considering purchasing.
Ethernet cables: Ethernet cables are used to wire PoE cameras to the back of an NVR, providing video, audio, and power through a single cable. CAT5e or CAT6 are the recommended cable standards. It’s recommended not to run them more than 328 feet or 100 meters, but PoE extenders or switches can be used if you need to stretch the distance further.
NVR recorder: As video is encoded before it gets to the recorder, the NVR recorder only services the purpose of storing and viewing footage.
Video quality: IP cameras offer higher-quality video, typically between 2MP (1080p) to 12MP (4K) with a frame rate of 30 fps (real-time video)—much better than DVR systems.
Wiring installation: The single ethernet cable per camera is much easier to set up than the coaxial cables required by DVR systems.
Camera placement flexibility: The option to have wireless cameras or PoE extenders means that it’s easier to place cameras where you want. For example, it can be easier to place wireless IP cameras outside.
Audio included: Because ethernet transmits audio, each camera can deliver an audio stream to the NVR system (on top of video).
Network connected: NVR systems are connected to a network, so you can access your security footage remotely.
Low security: On the flip side, NVR systems have security risks. If you have limited network security, it’s possible to hack into your system.
Camera compatibility: Unless you buy the cameras from the same manufacturers, it’s harder to purchase multiple IP cameras that are compatible with the same NVR system.
Greater upfront cost: All of these benefits come with the drawback that NVR systems are more expensive on the whole.
Low life cycle: Most NVR system components only last for 3-8 years—less for components such as hard drives.
| Pros | Cons |
| Higher quality video | IP cameras are more expensive |
| Audio included | Not all IP cameras are compatible with all NVR systems |
| Easier to wire and install | Wireless NVR systems can suffer signal loss when WiFi is overloaded |
| Single PoE cable for power & data (cameras don’t need to be individually powered) | Limited network security |
| Flexible placement & distance of cameras and recorder | |
| Greater coverage with fewer cameras | |
| Network connected |
DVR (digital video recorder) systems are the older and often more budget-friendly option.
They use HD or analog CCTV cameras that connect to a central recorder with coaxial cables. Because coaxial cables don’t carry power, each camera also needs a separate power source—either through a siamese cable or a nearby outlet—which adds installation steps and potential failure points.
Once footage reaches the DVR, the recorder’s internal chip processes and encodes the video for storage or playback.
DVR systems are made of the following components:
Analog cameras: DVR systems use analog security cameras, also known as CCTV cameras. Because these cameras pass a raw video signal through to the recorder, there are fewer restrictions when it comes to mixing and matching analog cameras of different brands.
These cameras tend to have fewer features and transmit lower-quality video than IP cameras—however, for that reason, they are relatively more affordable. Although, analog cameras nowadays aren’t much cheaper than lower megapixel IP cameras.
Coaxial BNC cables: Each analog camera is connected to the DVR through a coaxial cable. Because coaxial cables don’t provide power, a second power cable is typically included within a single covering—known as a siamese cable. Standard coaxial cables don’t include audio, but there are variants with added RCA connections. However, the DVR has a limited number of audio ports, so only a limited number of cameras can record audio.
Coaxial cables are wider and more rigid than ethernet cables, which can make them more difficult to install in tight spaces. In general, it’s recommended that a camera is connected by fewer than 300 feet or 90 meters of cable, otherwise the video signal starts to degrade.
Optional: DVR recorder with AD encoder: Within the DVR recorder, there is an AD (analog-to-digital) encoder that converts the analog video signal into a digital signal. This encoding process allows the video to be viewed and stored.
Lower upfront cost – Because of their limited capabilities, the majority of analog CCTV cameras are more affordable than IP cameras, unless you’re aiming for a high-resolution analog camera. Therefore, the upfront costs of setting up a DVR are much lower.
Camera interoperability – Whereas NVR systems often require you to have cameras made from the same brand, DVR systems allow you to have different types of analog security cameras, which can save you money if you need to replace a camera.
Running cables – Running the coaxial and power cables is more challenging with a DVR system than with NVR systems, as the siamese cables are thicker and more rigid than ethernet cables. There is also no option for wireless cameras. However, if you already have coaxial cables installed, this can make DVR systems easier to set up.
Lower-quality video – While analog camera and coax cable quality is constantly improving, DVR systems don’t provide the video quality or frame rates of NVR systems. Because of the limited bandwidth of coax cables, most systems provide 4CIF resolution (704×480) at a frame rate of 7 to 15 fps at best. Some newer analog HD can provide up to 720p or 1080p video resolution, but these are less common. While this is fine for most security footage, you may lose out on some analytics applications, like tracking faces or license plates, because of the lower quality, which tends to be problematic for future use cases.
Limited audio capabilities – Because audio transmission requires an RCA connection and DVR boxes have limited audio inputs, you are limited to the number of cameras that can capture audio.
Lower coverage area – Because cameras must be placed within 300 feet of the DVR box, you are limited in the total coverage area of a single system. You may also be limited to placing cameras near power sources. Although this could always be solved with repeaters.
No network connectivity – DVR systems aren’t connected to a network, which means you can’t remotely access or manage your security footage.
Limited supply – Ultimately, this largely outdated technology has a limited supply as many vendors have stopped manufacturing them. Therefore you have higher maintenance costs.
| Pros | Cons |
| Can use existing coaxial cabling systems | Running coaxial and power cables is more challenging than ethernet cables |
| Can use existing, mix-and-match analog cameras | Maximum 300 ft transmission distance |
| More affordable | No wireless option |
| Lower video frame rates | |
| Lower video quality | |
| Limited audio capabilities | |
| Fewer security applications due to difficulty identifying faces, license plates, etc. | |
| Separate power source needed for each camera | |
| Smaller coverage area | |
| No network connectivity | |
| Limited supply |
While the exact cost of either system depends on the number of cameras installed and whether or not cabling needs to be laid, NVR systems are more expensive than DVR systems on average.
DVR systems make use of older analog CCTV cameras, which are available at lower price points. NVR systems make use of digital IP cameras that have greater capabilities, but come with a higher price tag.
While NVR systems often deliver more features and flexibility, the right choice depends on your needs and budget.
Choose NVR if:
You want higher-resolution video and better image quality
Remote access and cloud storage are important
You plan to expand or reposition cameras over time
You need smart features like motion detection or license plate recognition
Choose DVR if:
You need a lower-cost solution for basic recording
Your location already has coaxial cable runs in place
You don’t need frequent remote access
You want a straightforward setup with minimal network configuration
A new option has emerged in recent years: cloud cameras.
Cloud cameras are a “no head” solution, offering a security camera network without a central recorder—all video is transmitted over WiFi or via wire (POE systems). They have fewer upgrades, maintenance issues, and firmware updates than NVR systems.
However, cloud cameras have major drawbacks too. With cloud camera security systems, you are locked in to the security company’s cameras, which tend to have a high upfront cost. You’re also locked in to their upgrades or camera licensing fees.
Cloud cameras where all the storage is in the cloud are also heavy on bandwidth usage. Some cloud cameras have local storage within the cameras themselves.
Therefore, cloud cameras offer more capabilities, but at prohibitive cost. That’s why we designed Solink to take full advantage of lower-cost DVR and NVR systems. Note that Solink still has all the advantages of these cloud camera systems, which makes it one of the best cloud-based cloud video security systems.
Considering the technological strides in video security, one might question the necessity of traditional systems. Solink offers an innovative cloud-based video security system that eliminates the need for cumbersome NVR or DVR hardware.
Customers receive a fully warrantied storage appliance, ensuring reliable hybrid cloud–local video storage. This approach not only simplifies the infrastructure but also reduces long-term costs, as Solink’s solution encompasses maintenance and upgrades, embodying a future-proof security system.
Solink, our cloud-based video security system, integrates with both NVR and DVR. Solink connects with your existing security system and this gives you full network capabilities, plus the ability to sync various footage and data points.
For example, Solink can upgrade your DVR system, allowing you to synchronize your video footage with POS data so you can track unusual transactions, keypad entries, or late-night door access.
In fact, Solink allows you to integrate your POS data and video security system without a text inserter box.
Take this pizza franchisee for example, who prevented loss and improved employee efficiency at 17 locations thanks to an upgrade to their DVR system.
But let’s come back to the issue of high upfront security system costs—and how Solink solves that problem.
If you need to build a brand-new security system, we install a local storage appliance. This is a NAS (network-attached storage) that is relatively similar to an NVR. However, we cover 100% of the installation and hardware costs. If the hardware breaks, we replace it—no questions asked.
Instead, Solink only costs a monthly fee, giving you all the security advantages of a more advanced system, without the prohibitive upfront costs.
Learn more about how Solink can give you complete visibility into your business.
Here are some frequently asked questions about NVRs, DVRs, and the related technology.
NVR stands for network video recorder. NVRs capture video in a digital format from IP cameras. It is sometimes referred to as “NVR full form.”
DVR stands for digital video recorder. DVRs capture video from analog cameras and then convert and store the video in a digital format. It is sometimes referred to as “DVR full form.”
NAS stands for network-attached storage. These are banks of redundant hard drives used to store critical information, including security camera footage.
The main difference between DVR and NVR systems is how they communicate and transmit video data. In a DVR system, the camera stream is captured from analog cameras. Because analog cameras are unable to process video at the source, they pass the raw video feed to the recorder via coaxial cables. The recorder processes the video into a digital format to be stored and/or accessed live. In an NVR system, video is captured with IP cameras, which process the video directly and then transfer to the recorder via an Ethernet cable.
The following are the main advantages of NVRs:
The following are the main disadvantages of NVRs:
The following are the main advantages of DVRs:
The following are the main disadvantages of DVRs:
To retain video footage from security cameras, you will need some sort of video storage. This can be an NVR, DVR, network attached storage device, cloud video repository, or a combination of them.
DVRs are strictly for analog cameras. While they are only used with analog security cameras, you don’t necessarily need a DVR to use analog cameras. Solink works with a fully warrantied, hands off storage appliance instead of a DVR.
NVR security cameras can continue to record when your Internet connection is down. However, you may need the Internet to review recorded videos or analyze them.
NVRs have the risk of being hacked because they are connected to the Internet. It’s important to take every precaution when dealing with critical infrastructure that is connected to the Internet to prevent hacking.
NVRs have relatively short useful lifespans. They typically last 3-8 years.
DVRs have relatively short useful lifespans. They typically last about five years.
The physical NVR system is at risk of theft. Hiding its location is one option, but you can also keep it in a secure location, such as the manager’s office, or somewhere difficult to access, such as a very high shelf.
NVRs are computers, but with very limited capabilities. If you wish to use video management software (VMS), then you’ll need a computer or mobile device.
It depends on the NVR. Some have WiFi capabilities, while others require a wired connection. Where possible, wired connections are usually more secure and more robust and therefore recommended.
Analog cameras require a DVR. NVR systems also tend to be locked to proprietary cameras, meaning that you’ll need to keep buying the same branded cameras to ensure they are compatible with your NVR system.
It depends on the NVR, but common models are compatible with 4, 8, 12, or 16 security cameras.
NVRs, DVRs, and other network-attached storage (NAS) devices have built in hard drives.
DVRs are used to capture video from analog cameras over coaxial cables and then convert them to a digital format for storage.
NVRs are used to capture video from digital cameras over Ethernet cables, store the video, and then make it accessible to cloud-based video analytics tools.
DVRs range in price but start in the few hundred dollars range.
NVRs range in price but usually cost one to several thousand dollars.
Most DVRs have HDMI ports that allow them to be connected to a TV or monitor, including smart TVs.
DVRs can be considered obsolete technology. It is becoming harder to find new DVRs to replace old ones, and most security needs would be better served with newer technology, including cloud based video monitoring services and IP security cameras.
The Internet is not needed for a DVR system, but not being able to connect to cloud video management systems (VMS) limits the usefulness of store security footage.
DVRs and NVRs are used for analog and digital cameras, respectively. NVR systems can be considered the modern version of DVRs. However, both have clear limitations compared to video monitoring as a service (VSaaS) companies.
NVRs are more reliable than DVRs because they are newer technology. However, redundant hard drives, automated health checks, and lifetime automated security and software updates make Solink far more reliable than either.
No. NVR systems are not needed. There are other options for storing, processing, and analyzing security footage for your business. Solink uses a hybrid cloud NAS system that makes NVRs obsolete.
Video retention is dependent on the size of hard drives, the definition and frame rate of the video, and the number of security cameras attached to the storage device. Solink offers flexible storage ranging from one month to one year or longer, along with unlimited lifetime storage of saved clips in the cloud.
NAS systems are designed to store your important data, including security camera footage. They have some built in computational capabilities but mostly are just banks of redundant hard drives. Since NAS systems are attached to the network, which can then be connected to the Internet, they make it possible to use a cloud video management system (VMS) to analyze the video footage and pair it with other data sources.
Network attached storage (NAS) devices come in both HDD and SSD types. SSD is more expensive, but it can increase the capacity of your NAS and make the system faster. However, SSD can fail quickly in security systems because of the constant writing of new data, which is why Solink recommends HDD for video security systems.
If your network is connected to the Internet, then you should be able to access the data on your NAS from anywhere.
NAS systems can be very beneficial to businesses and worth the price.
Similar to an NVR, your NAS drive can continue to record and operate without the Internet. However, you won’t be able to access your data remotely, and if you use a cloud video security service to analyze your data, then that won’t be available until your Internet connection is restored either.
Hard drives can last a long time. However, the hard drives in your NVR, DVR, or NAS will be in use 24 hours a day, 365 days a year writing and rewriting video data. This limits their useful life greatly. That’s why Solink includes a fully warrantied, hands off storage appliance with our service, which means the end of end of life (EoL) planning for your business security system.
