What’s the Difference Between DVR and NVR?

The difference between a DVR and an NVR is how each process and stores video signals.

A DVR (Digital Video Recorder) uses a coaxial cable to receive video signals from a CCTV camera, where it’s encoded, compressed, and stored in the internal hard drive. The data processing (encoding and compressing) happens in the recorder.

NVR (Network Video Recorder) processes its raw data (video signals) in the IP cameras before sending it to the NVR for storage.

Digital Video Recorders (DVR)

They’re the most common video recorders and have been around since 1999. They use analog cameras, although some hybrids can also use digital cameras.

DVRs use coaxial cables to receive external cameras’ signals for encoding, compressing, and storing.

Advantages of DVR

Buying a DVR system is cheap compared to NVR. When installing a new DVR system, you don’t need to remove the old cables used in the previous installation.
Since the video signal is transmitted through coaxial cables, you don’t have to worry about signal loss or poor connection. The signal is steady.

Disadvantages of DVR

Audio limitation. Digital video recorders use coaxial cables, which can’t transmit audio. You will need extra cables for audio.
All data processing happens in the DVR recorder, making it slow.
It can’t work without an AD recorder, and you’ll need an additional power source.
Poor video quality.
Installing a DVR system can also be challenging since the cables are not that flexible.

Network Video Recorder

They only work with IP, and internet protocol cameras, which gives the NVR an added advantage. IP cameras function as standalone cameras. They can record and process video footage before sending it to the recorder for storage.

The NVR system is quite advanced compared to DVR; it provides high-quality footage with audio. It also has room for artificial intelligence, e.g., facial or license plate recognition.

Since data processing happens outside the recorder, the NVR system is fast and has less lag when remote watching.

Advantages of NVR

Quality videos. Due to its advanced hardware, NVR systems can use 4K (or higher) cameras.
It doesn’t need connecting cables. The IP cameras can function with a Wi-Fi connection. However, you can still use an Ethernet cable to connect the cameras to the recorder.
No audio limitation. Whether you use an Ethernet cable or wireless connection, NVR will have your videos with audio.
More storage capacity. Unlike DVR, NVR is not limited to a hard drive for video storage. You can connect your NVR system to a cloud-based server where all the camera footage can be stored and easily retrieved.

Which Is Better? NVR Or DVR?

It may depend on your situation or your budget. If you have cables already installed from a previous security system, DVR is the best. Plus, it is cheap.

However, if you want quality footage, consider NVR. Even though it’s expensive, it’s fast, has no audio problems, and has high storage capacity. Would you like more information about home security systems? Learn more here.