Home Security Systems
Digital video recorders (DVR) are essential to modern-day security camera systems. They enable the recording of security footage from your CCTV security cameras for playback when needed. The best DVR for CCTV offers additional features, like apps that you can download to monitor camera footage in real-time from anywhere and an option for cloud storage. If you want to be sure of your safety at home, we’ve listed seven of the best DVR security systems for CCTV. They boast features for the ultimate security system.
Comparison Chart
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | DETAILS | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
| TIGERSECU Super HD 1080P 16-Channel Hybrid 4-in-1 DVR Security Recorder with 2TB Hard Drive | The TIGERSECU Super HD 1080P 16-Channel Hybrid 4-in-1 DVR Security Recorder with 2TB Hard Drive is a full-featured hybrid digital video recording system that can simultaneously record ONVIF IP cameras and analog cameras. For top-notch performance, pair this DVR with TIGERSECU security cameras. This best DVR for CCTV supports 2MP and 5MP HD-TVI, AHD, CVI, analog, and ONVIF IP security cameras. | ||
| ANNKE 8CH 5-in-1 1080P Lite Security Standalone DVR | The H.264+ video compression of the ANNKE 8CH 5-in-1 considerably enhances compression and transmission efficiency, without sacrificing video quality. This best DVR for CCTV lets you maximize your storage space while enjoying ultra-long recordings. | ||
| ZOSI 1080N/720P 8 Channels 4-in-1 DVR | This 4-in-1 security DVR supports Analog, TVI, CVI, and AHD security cameras. High compatibility makes it easy to connect to different cameras. It also supports up to 8 cameras, so you could choose different angles as needed. The Zosi provides you with the flexibility to extend the different types of cameras to meet your security needs. | ||
| Amcrest Security Camera System Recorder | The Amcrest 2-megapixel best DVR for CCTV features latency-free, uncompressed, and Point-to-Point raw data, with 4K Ultra HD video transmission of up to 3840 x 2160 @ 7Fps. It also supports 1080P and 30Fps lower resolutions. | ||
| Xenocam 4CH 1080N Hybrid 5-in-1 AHD DVR | The Xenocam 4CH 1080N Hybrid 5-in-1 AHD DVR comes with four channels that support TVI, CVI, AHD, and Analog wired IP Camera as well. The XENOCAM DVR system can provide realistic high definition HD images. This standalone DVR offers you the chance to take full advantage of your old security cameras. | ||
| SANNCE 8-Channel 1080P Lite Wired Security Camera System DVR Recorder with 1TB Hard Disk Drive | The SANNCE 8-Channel comes with 1080 pixels resolution outdoor cameras, a metal body cameras with weatherproof housing that can be used both indoors and outdoors, and 1080p high definition live viewing monitor with 1080p video recording and playback. This DVR is a breeze to install and set-up. Just connect the cameras, TV, and DVR with the provided cables, and everything you care about will be under 24/7 surveillance. | ||
| Hiseeu 4K PoE Security Camera System, 8CH 8MP Home Video Surveillance DVR Kit | The Hiseeu 4K PoE Security Camera System brings you the clearest video quality with a wide-angle using a 2.8mm Sony Lens. This 18-piece Nano LED Technology provides you with up to 100ft night vision even in absolute darkness. With this device, you’ll always know what’s going on around your home or business. |
Detailed Reviews on the 7 Best DVR for CCTV
TIGERSECU Super HD 1080P 16-Channel Hybrid 4-in-1 DVR Security Recorder with 2TB Hard Drive
The TIGERSECU Super HD 1080P 16-Channel Hybrid 4-in-1 DVR Security Recorder with 2TB Hard Drive is a full-featured hybrid digital video recording system that can simultaneously record ONVIF IP cameras and analog cameras. For top-notch performance, pair this DVR with TIGERSECU security cameras. This best DVR for CCTV supports 2MP and 5MP HD-TVI, AHD, CVI, analog, and ONVIF IP security cameras.
Product Highlights
The TIGERSECU Super HD Viewer allows you to remotely access and play your surveillance system footage and control the DVR with no contract or monthly fees. The minimum recommended upload speed is 1Mbps per channel for remote connections and 16Mbps for 16-channels. On the other hand, the mobile app requires iOS 9.3 or later, and Android 9 or later.
The Good
This DVR is pre-installed with a new 2TB surveillance hard disk drive by WD Purple or Toshiba. It allows you up to 4+ days of continuous local recording at the highest possible resolution. You also have the option to replace the internal hard drive with up to two hard disk drives of 16TB each. The motion detection options enable you to record only when motion is detected to save hard drive space.
The Bad
The TIGERSECU’s HD Viewer does not work with HD-SDI, Arlo, and Reolink IP cameras, and has limited compatibility with select ONVIF IP cameras. Some users complained about the APP, being too hard to navigate and use.
PROs
- Full-featured hybrid digital video
- No contract or monthly fees
- Pre-installed with a new 2tb surveillance hard disk drive
CONs
- Does not work with HD-SDI, Arlo, and Reolink IP cameras
- Limited compatibility with select ONVIF IP cameras
- APP is not user-friendly
ANNKE 8CH 5-in-1 1080P Lite Security Standalone DVR
The H.264+ video compression of the ANNKE 8CH 5-in-1 considerably enhances compression and transmission efficiency, without sacrificing video quality. This best DVR for CCTV lets you maximize your storage space while enjoying ultra-long recordings.
Product Highlights
You can enjoy live video from anywhere in the world with the free ANNKE VISION APP on this security DVR. Monitor your home or business freely on your iOS/Android phone, tablet, or PC, wherever you have an internet connection available. Stay confident that you won’t be troubled by false alerts since you can mark your motion detection zones. Instant email alerts with snapshots and APP alarm pushes allow you to take precautions for your family’s safety
The Good
You can customize your security cameras with various recording modes, including manual, scheduled, and motion detection. Multiple playback modes, like event mode, tag, and smart mode, are also accessible, making your video playback a breeze and a satisfying experience overall.
The Bad
The ANNKE 8CH 5-in-1 DVR does not come with a pre-installed hard drive. This DVR requires an internal hard disk drive since it can’t record or playback without it. So you need to purchase a separate one. The smart search feature also tends to miss the initial motion and starts recording halfway already. The manuals that came with the package are too confusing as well.
PROs
- Exceptional H.264+ Video Compression
- Live View from Anywhere Anytime
- Customizable Motion Zones & Instant Alerts
- Multiple Recording/Playback Modes
CONs
- No pre-installed hard drive
- Smart search feature tends to miss initial motion
- Manual instructions are confusing
ZOSI 1080N/720P 8 Channels 4-in-1 DVR
This 4-in-1 security DVR supports Analog, TVI, CVI, and AHD security cameras. High compatibility makes it easy to connect to different cameras. It also supports up to 8 cameras, so you could choose different angles as needed. The Zosi provides you with the flexibility to extend the different types of cameras to meet your security needs.
Product Highlights
The ZOSI 1080N/720P 8 Channels 4-in-1 DVR allows local viewing with no network required. Just connect the DVR to a monitor through HDMI / VGA port and experience multiple-cam views on one screen. You can also opt to connect the DVR to the internet. Download the ZOSI Smart app on your smartphone, and you can view your footage from virtually anywhere. With the remote app, you can see the feed live, receive push notifications, and watch any previously recorded footage. No matter where you are, you’ll never miss a single moment.
The Good
This DVR comes with four recording modes for easily customizable security cameras. Record Continuous allows your DVR to record non-stop unless you end it or reset it. The Schedule Record is shown as a 24-hour 7-days a week grid and color-coded to represent an event type. If you want to save on storage, you can activate Motion Detection Record, and your DVR will only start recording when motion is detected. The last option is to recycle the record. This option enables your DVR to overwrite the oldest video files on your hard drive when recording.
The Bad
The ZOSI 1080N/720P 8 Channels 4-in-1 DVR is a bit hard to install, especially for beginners. Some users complained about the installation requiring some cables not included in the package. This DVR is also a bit challenging to connect to the internet network.
PROs
- Supports analog, HD-TVI, CVI, AHD camera
- Pre-installed 1TB hard Drive
- Email notification & mobile push alerts
- Support USB port back up
CONs
- Hard to install for beginners
- Problem connecting the unit to the internet
Amcrest Security Camera System Recorder
The Amcrest best DVR for CCTV features latency-free, uncompressed, and Point-to-Point raw data, with 4K Ultra HD video transmission of up to 3840 x 2160 @ 7Fps. It also supports 1080P and 30Fps lower resolutions.
Product Highlights
If you want the convenience of viewing ultra HD footage from your video security system on your web browser from anywhere around the world, then this product might be the one you’re looking for. Using the Amcrest View Pro app, you can access remote live viewing on your iOS and Android devices via internet connectivity. These cameras are controlled via remote control, ensuring that you can keep an eye on everything being recorded even from a distance.
The Good
The Amcrest DVR transmits audio, video, and controls over a single coaxial cable. It utilizes existing coaxial cable networks, decreasing the need to run new cables to your Security System. The H.265 Compression Technology lets your video files to compressed without any notable difference in quality.
The Bad
The Amcrest DVR is a bit slow to boot up, and the APP is a bit hard to navigate. Some users experienced difficulty in connecting the DVR to a network. The BNC connectors are also too close to each other, making it somewhat difficult to connect the cables.
PROs
- 4K Ultra HD video transmission
- Remote live viewing
- H.265 Compression Technology
CONs
- Amcrest View Pro app is hard to navigate
- BNC connectors are too close to each other
- Slow to boot up
Xenocam 4CH 1080N Hybrid 5-in-1 AHD DVR
The Xenocam 4CH 1080N Hybrid 5-in-1 AHD DVR comes with four channels that support TVI, CVI, AHD, and Analog wired IP Camera as well. The XENOCAM DVR system can provide realistic color high definition HD images. This standalone DVR offers you the chance to take full advantage of your old security cameras.
Product Highlights
Set up your CCTV surveillance system with this security DVR recorder for peace of mind while away from home. The easy P2P setup enables you to enjoy viewing in seconds! With its unique QR Scan feature, you can view virtually anywhere on your smartphone via the Free APP XMEYE.
The Good
If you have limited storage, then this is the product for you. Recording only starts when movement is detected, which helps you save storage without missing any significant events. This best DVR for CCTV also offers a one-year quality warranty and lifetime tech support.
The Bad
The Xenocam 4CH 1080N Hybrid 5-in-1 AHD DVR doesn’t support wireless IP Camera. It also does not have a pre-installed hard drive, so you might need to purchase one for better storage capacity. Another setback is this DVR doesn’t work with Chrome and Edge browsers. However, it’s not a big issue since you can easily download other browsers.
PROs
- Comes with four channels that support TVI, CVI, AHD, and Analog wired IP Camera
- P2P setup
- QR Scan feature
CONs
- It doesn’t support wireless IP camera
- No pre-installed hard drive
- Doesn’t work with Chrome and Edge browsers
SANNCE 8-Channel 1080P Lite Wired Security Camera System DVR Recorder
The SANNCE Security Camera System comes with 1080 pixels resolution outdoor cameras, metal body cameras with weatherproof housing that can be used both indoors and outdoors, and 1080p high definition live viewing with 1080p video recording and playback. This DVR is a breeze to install and set-up. Just connect the cameras, TV, and DVR with the provided cables, and everything you care about will be under 24/7 surveillance.
Product Highlights
It has a metal body of the cameras can be used indoor and outdoor, making it a worry-free solution for year-round home security monitoring. They are also rugged and temperature resistant, built to withstand all types of weather. Analog, AHD, TVI, and HD IP cameras may all be connected to it, allowing you to get the most out of your older cameras. Every unexpected action thrown into the cameras’ eye will be caught and recorded while working with cameras. Simultaneously, you’ll receive timely email notifications on your smart devices.
The Good
You will be notified through email alerts with snapshots when a human face or shape or motion is detected. By setting a perimeter zone and customizing motion detection as you need to decrease false alarms and save HDD space, no more unnecessary alerts will be caused by the movement of insects or falling leaves.
The Bad
The SANNCE Security Camera System does not come with a hard drive within the package. However, it does require an internal hard disk drive for recording and playback. So you might need to purchase a separate one to fully enjoy this feature.
PROs
- 1920×1080 pixels resolution
- IP66 weatherproof metal body
- 3.6MM LEDs with IR-CUT function
- Customizable motion detection
CONs
- No pre-installed hard drive
- Requires internal hard disk drive for recording and playback
Hiseeu 4K PoE Security Camera System, 8CH 8MP Home Video Surveillance DVR Kit
The Hiseeu 4K PoE Security Camera System brings you the clearest video quality with a wide-angle using a 2.8mm Sony Lens. This 18-piece Nano LED Technology provides you with up to 100ft night vision even in absolute darkness. With this device, you’ll always know what’s going on around your home or business.
Product Highlights
The Power over Ethernet feature of the Hiseeu 4K PoE Security Camera System allows you to set up your home security camera system efficiently. You only need a power supply and video and audio signal transmission using a single Ethernet cable. You won’t need to worry about signal issues nor wiring hassles.
The Good
The 8CH expandable 4K PoE NVR has a built-in 3TB hard drive. This DVR system comes with four IP67 waterproof security cameras for video and audio monitoring. It also utilizes Advanced Compression Technology to ensure 30-Days reliable surveillance footage before overwriting.
The Bad
The Hiseeu 4K PoE Security Camera System is the best DVR for CCTV in terms of video quality. However, it’s not the most affordable item on this list. It is also not compatible with all camera types, especially network-based ones. Some users had a hard time connecting the network together.
PROs
- PoE Plug-Play easy setup
- 24/7 video and audio recording
- Remote access with no monthly fee
CONs
- A bit expensive
- Not all cameras are compatible
- Not for network-based cameras
Conclusion
A DVR is the heart of a CCTV system. A quality DVR ensures the safety of your family and supports your CCTV to do its functions. Having a cheap and unreliable DVR will affect and compromise your entire security system. Different types of DVRs from a vast market of manufacturers might be too confusing. Some descriptions used on websites are rather complicated, with many incorrect or misleading specifications. We have put together this review to help you narrow down your choices. Our list of the best DVR for CCTV is guaranteed to exceed your expectations. Find out more about CCTVs.