8 Best Network Video Recorders

Are you in the market for a reliable and high-quality network video recorder (NVR) for your security camera system? Look no further! In this article, we will be reviewing and comparing several top-notch NVRs to help you make an informed decision. These products vary in features, capabilities, and price ranges, so you can find the perfect fit for your specific needs.

Network video recorders have become an essential component of modern security camera systems. They offer a practical and efficient way to store and manage video footage from multiple cameras. Gone are the days of dealing with tangled wires and bulky VCRs – NVRs provide a streamlined and advanced solution for video surveillance.

One of the significant benefits of owning an NVR is the ability to easily access and view your camera feeds remotely. Whether you’re at work, on vacation, or anywhere else, you can keep an eye on your property from the convenience of your smartphone or computer. Additionally, NVRs often support high-resolution cameras, such as 4K or 8MP, ensuring crystal-clear video playback and accurate monitoring.

In the following sections, we will take a closer look at each NVR, examining their specific features, storage capabilities, and compatibility with various camera types. This comprehensive analysis will help you assess which product best aligns with your requirements and budget. So, let’s dive into the world of NVRs and find the perfect one for you!

4K 8-Channel Network Video Recorder with Screen, Jennov 8-Channel POE NVR, Supports up to 8 x 8MP/4K IP Cameras, 8-Channel Power Over Ethernet (HDD Not Included)

The 4K 8CH Network Video Recorder with Screen by Jennov is primarily designed for use in surveillance systems. It is capable of supporting up to 8 high-resolution IP cameras, making it ideal for both residential and commercial security applications.

We are impressed with the 4K 8CH Network Video Recorder with Screen due to its combination of advanced features and user-friendly setup. Its 12” monitor provides a high-quality HD image, allowing users to see every detail of the monitoring clearly. Furthermore, the Power over Ethernet (PoE) setup makes installation simple, eliminating the need for multiple cables and reducing the risk of dropped connections.

The purpose of the 4K 8CH Network Video Recorder with Screen is to provide users with a reliable and efficient solution for capturing and storing surveillance footage. Its key features include support for up to 8 8MP/4K IP cameras, 24/7 continuous recording, and smart alerts. Additionally, it supports third-party cameras as long as they are PoE enabled and compatible with the Onvif protocol.

The overall quality of the 4K 8CH Network Video Recorder with Screen is exceptional. Its 4K resolution ensures that all captured footage is clear and detailed, while the PoE setup simplifies installation and ensures a stable connection. The inclusion of smart alerts and motion detection further enhances its functionality, providing users with real-time notifications and easy access to video recordings.

• High-quality 4K resolution

• Simple and convenient PoE setup

• Supports third-party cameras

• 24/7 continuous recording

• Smart alerts and motion detection

• Efficient Ultra 265 video compression

• Hard disk drive (HDD) not included

• Internet access required for remote control and motion push notifications

The 4K 8CH Network Video Recorder with Screen is an outstanding option for anyone in need of a reliable and user-friendly surveillance solution. Its advanced features, such as smart alerts and Ultra 265 video compression, make it a top choice for both residential and commercial security applications.

Zypola 1080p 8 Channel DVR Recorder with 1TB Hard Drive, Remote Access, HDMI & VGA Output, Supports Various Camera Types

The Zypola® 1080p 8 Channel Hybrid CCTV DVR Recorder is designed for those who want to expand their surveillance options and have comprehensive coverage. This versatile 5-in-1 Hybrid DVR supports up to 8CH TVI/AHD/CVI/CVBS/IP, allowing users to effortlessly integrate their existing cameras or add new ones.

We appreciate the flexibility of the Zypola DVR’s input modes. It supports various analog and network formats, including 1080N, 720P, 960H, 1080P, and 3MP, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of cameras. This versatility gives users the freedom to choose the cameras that best suit their needs.

The Zypola 1080p DVR is designed to provide users with a reliable and efficient surveillance solution. Its key features include a pre-installed 1 TB hard drive, H.265 compression technology for efficient storage, immersive Full HD HDMI and VGA outputs for crystal-clear viewing, and multi-channel playback capability.

One of the standout features of this DVR is its remote access functionality. Users can conveniently access live viewing and video playback on their Android or iPhone devices from anywhere. Compatible with popular web browsers like IE, Chrome, Firefox, and Safari, the Zypola DVR ensures that users can stay connected and in control.

The Zypola 1080p 8 Channel Hybrid CCTV DVR Recorder is built with quality in mind. Its high-speed core processor allows for simultaneous recording and playback on up to 8 ports, ensuring that no moment is missed. The reliable and efficient performance of this DVR makes it a reliable choice for both personal and professional security needs.

Pros:

• Versatile support for various analog and network formats
• Pre-installed 1 TB hard drive for ample storage capacity
• Full HD HDMI and VGA outputs for high-quality viewing
• Convenient remote access on any device and browser

Cons:

• Limited to 8 channels, may not be suitable for larger-scale surveillance setups
• Some users may prefer a different compression technology

The Zypola® 1080p 8 Channel Hybrid CCTV DVR Recorder offers a versatile and reliable surveillance solution. With its flexible input modes, immersive viewing experience, and remote access capabilities, it is a valuable tool for both personal and professional security needs. Despite its limitations in channel capacity and compression technology options, the overall performance and quality make it a worthy investment.

ANNKE 5MP Lite 16-Channel Security Video Recorder with AI Detection and 2TB Hard Drive

The ANNKE 5MP Lite 16 Channel Security Video Recorder is primarily designed for home and business surveillance purposes. With its advanced features, it offers reliable and efficient video recording and monitoring capabilities.

There are several reasons why the ANNKE 5MP Lite 16 Channel Security Video Recorder stands out as a top choice. Its innovative human and vehicle detection feature ensures that users receive motion detection alerts only when people or vehicles are detected in the frame, minimizing false alarms triggered by bugs, animals, or foliage.

Additionally, this network video recorder (NVR) offers a 5-in-1 hybrid solution, combining the features of a DVR, NVR, and HVR. It supports up to 16 analog cameras and 2 IP cameras, providing a comprehensive security camera solution for any property. Users have the flexibility to choose different camera types for seamless integration with the NVR.

The ANNKE 5MP Lite 16 Channel Security Video Recorder is designed to enhance the security and surveillance of homes and businesses. Its key features include:

• Human and Vehicle Detection: By setting up this feature, users will only receive motion detection alerts when people or vehicles are detected in the frame. This helps minimize false alarms caused by other factors.

• Expandable Hybrid DVR: The NVR supports various camera types, including TVI, AHD, CVI, CVBS, and IP cameras. Users can easily add any camera type they prefer for a tailored surveillance setup.

• Security-Grade 2 TB HDD and H.265+ Coding: The included 2 TB HDD is specifically designed for surveillance monitoring, offering high workload performance and reducing ambient noise and vibrations. The H.265+ coding technology enables longer record times and saves up to 80% of storage space compared to H.264 systems.

• Remote Access with All Devices and Browsers: Users can connect the NVR to their router and control it remotely using the ANNKE Vision App. Whether via 3G/4G/5G or Wi-Fi, the NVR can be accessed from smartphones, tablets, computers, and various browsers.

The ANNKE 5MP Lite 16 Channel Security Video Recorder excels in terms of performance, functionality, and user-friendliness. Its innovative features, expandable hybrid DVR capabilities, and remote accessibility make it a reliable choice for home and business surveillance needs.

Pros:

• Innovative human and vehicle detection feature
• 5-in-1 hybrid DVR supporting multiple camera types
• Security-grade 2 TB HDD with reduced noise and vibrations
• H.265+ coding technology for efficient storage usage
• Remote access via various devices and browsers
• Comprehensive 2-year warranty and free accessories included

Cons:

• Limited to a maximum of 16 analog cameras
• May require some technical knowledge for setup and configuration.

Tenda 4K 16CH NVR for Home Security Cameras, 1080p-8MP, H.265, 10TB HDD

The Tenda NVR N3L-16H 4K 16CH Network Video Recorder is primarily used for home security camera systems. It is designed to provide users with a reliable and efficient way to record and store surveillance footage from their security cameras.

We like the Tenda NVR N3L-16H because it offers a wide range of features that are essential for effective home security camera systems. It supports up to 16-CH 8MP/4K network camera inputs and has up to 4-CH 1080P decoding capability, allowing for clear and detailed video recordings. The NVR also supports up to 60 Mbps incoming and outgoing bandwidth, ensuring smooth and uninterrupted video streaming.

The Tenda NVR N3L-16H is specifically designed to enhance the functionality of home security camera systems. It supports various camera resolutions, including 1080p, 3MP, 4MP, 5MP, and 8MP, offering flexibility in camera options. The NVR has up to 10TB HDD support, allowing for ample storage space to store recorded footage.

One of the key features of the Tenda NVR N3L-16H is its H.265+ video compression technology. This technology maximizes storage efficiency by minimizing the size of video files without compromising on video quality. It also supports H.264 encoding and decoding, making it compatible with a wide range of IPC cameras.

The NVR also prioritizes data safety and security with its bad sector isolation feature. This feature automatically detects and skips bad sectors on the hard drive, ensuring reliable storage of video data. Additionally, the NVR includes a USB backup feature for added protection.

Cloud storage and remote viewing capabilities further enhance the functionality of the Tenda NVR N3L-16H. Users can access recorded videos on their mobile phones through the TDSEE app, providing convenient remote monitoring. Instant alerts can also be received via phone notification for added peace of mind.

The Tenda NVR N3L-16H stands out for its overall quality. It is designed with user convenience in mind, offering easy setup and compatibility with various camera brands that support the ONVIF protocol. The NVR is CE and FCC certified, ensuring compliance with industry standards.

Pros:

• Supports high-resolution cameras
• H.265+ video compression technology
• Bad sector isolation feature for improved data safety
• Cloud storage and remote viewing capabilities

Cons:

• Compatibility limited to cameras that support ONVIF protocol
• May require technical support for setup troubleshooting

The Tenda NVR N3L-16H is a reliable and feature-rich network video recorder for home security camera systems. Its compatibility, storage capabilities, and advanced features make it a valuable addition to any surveillance setup.

Ubiquiti UniFi Network Video Recorder Pro

The Ubiquiti UniFi Network Video Recorder Pro (UNVR-Pro) is primarily used in professional settings to manage and monitor video surveillance systems. It is commonly used in businesses, offices, and other commercial establishments that require a high level of security.

One of the main reasons we like the Ubiquiti UniFi Network Video Recorder Pro (UNVR-Pro) is its robust features and functionality. It offers a comprehensive solution for managing and storing video footage from multiple cameras, making it ideal for large-scale surveillance deployments. Additionally, its compatibility with the UniFi Protect application allows for seamless integration and easy access to camera streams and recordings.

The Ubiquiti UniFi Network Video Recorder Pro (UNVR-Pro) serves as a central hub for video surveillance systems, providing a reliable and efficient solution for managing and storing footage. Its key features include the ability to add up to 60 cameras, ensuring comprehensive coverage of every angle. With the UniFi Protect application, users can remotely access camera streams and recordings free of charge, providing flexibility and convenience. Additionally, the UNVR-Pro offers local storage options, allowing users to securely store their footage without relying on cloud servers.

The Ubiquiti UniFi Network Video Recorder Pro (UNVR-Pro) is highly regarded for its exceptional quality. It is designed with durability and reliability in mind, ensuring that it can withstand the demands of continuous video recording. The UNVR-Pro is known for its seamless performance, offering smooth and uninterrupted video playback and management.

Pros:

• Compatible with the UniFi Protect application
• Ability to add up to 60 cameras for comprehensive coverage
• Remote access to camera streams and recordings for free
• Users can store footage locally, ensuring data security and privacy

Cons:

• Designed for professional use, may not be suitable for smaller-scale deployments
• Initial setup and configuration may require technical expertise

The Ubiquiti UniFi Network Video Recorder Pro (UNVR-Pro) is an excellent choice for businesses and commercial establishments looking to enhance their security with a reliable and feature-rich video surveillance system. Its compatibility with the UniFi Protect application, extensive camera support, and remote access capabilities make it a standout option in the market. With its outstanding overall quality, the UNVR-Pro provides peace of mind to users by offering a seamless and robust solution for managing and storing video footage.

EmpireTech NVR 5-EI Series 32 Channel 1U Network Video Recorder

The EmpireTech NVR 5-EI Series 32 Channels 1U 16PoE 2HDD Smart H.265+ AI Network Video Recorder serves as a powerful surveillance tool, primarily designed for commercial and large-scale security applications.

This network video recorder stands out for its advanced features, ease of use, and reliability. It offers efficient video decoding capabilities, intelligent video analytics, and high-bandwidth capacity, making it an exceptional choice for comprehensive video surveillance systems.

The EmpireTech NVR 5-EI Series 32 Channels 1U 16PoE 2HDD Smart H.265+ AI Network Video Recorder is designed to facilitate efficient video management and enhance security measures. Its key features include:

• Smart H.265+ and H.264+ decoding formats: These advanced formats reduce the storage and bandwidth requirements, resulting in optimized video quality and efficient storage utilization.
• 32-channel 1080p self-adaptive decoding capability: It supports the decoding of up to 32 channels simultaneously, ensuring smooth and seamless video playback.
• AI-powered video analytics: The recorder features built-in artificial intelligence capabilities, including face detection and recognition, perimeter protection, and SMD Plus (Smart Motion Detection Plus) technology. These advanced analytics ensure accurate event detection and minimize false alarms.
• Max. 384 Mbps incoming/recording/outgoing bandwidth: This high bandwidth capacity allows for the simultaneous transmission and recording of multiple high-resolution video streams without compromising performance.
• AI integration with compatible cameras: The NVR seamlessly integrates with compatible cameras to leverage their AI capabilities, such as face detection and recognition, perimeter protection, SMD Plus, metadata analysis, ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition), and people counting.
• Security Baseline 2.3: The NVR adheres to the latest security standards, ensuring data protection and preventing unauthorized access.

The EmpireTech NVR 5-EI Series 32 Channels 1U 16PoE 2HDD Smart H.265+ AI Network Video Recorder boasts outstanding overall quality, with its robust construction and reliable performance. It offers advanced features that meet the demands of professional surveillance systems, making it a highly recommended choice within the industry.

Pros:

• Powerful AI-driven video analytics
• High-bandwidth capacity for efficient data transmission
• Easy integration with compatible cameras
• Enhanced security features and standards compliance

Cons:

• High-end price range may exceed budgets of some users
• Advanced features may require additional training for optimal utilization

Anpviz 16-Channel 4K POE NVR for Home Security Camera System – Supports up to 8 x 8MP/4K IP Cameras – Pre-Installed 4TB Hard Drive

The Anpviz 16CH 4K POE NVR Network Video Recorder is designed for home security camera systems. It enables users to connect and manage up to 8 high-resolution IP cameras, offering reliable and convenient surveillance for residential properties.

We are impressed by the Anpviz 16CH 4K POE NVR Network Video Recorder for its user-friendly features and advanced functionalities. It offers seamless plug & play setup, allowing users to easily install and connect their network video recorders and Anpviz HK IP cameras. The system also supports third-party IP cameras, providing flexibility in camera selection.

The Anpviz 16CH 4K POE NVR Network Video Recorder serves as the central hub for a home security camera system. It supports multiple video formats, including H.265+, H.265, H.264, and H.264+, offering efficient storage and reducing costs by up to 75%. With a maximum incoming bandwidth of 160Mbps, it allows recording and playback of up to 16 cameras at 4K resolution.

The system features Power over Ethernet (PoE) technology, providing stable power and video signal transmission. This eliminates the need for separate power cables, reducing installation costs. With 16 PoE ports, the NVR can accommodate up to 8 cameras with resolutions ranging from 8MP to 1080P.

Additionally, the Anpviz 16CH 4K POE NVR Network Video Recorder includes smart motion detection capabilities. Users can customize schedules and receive real-time motion alerts via email and mobile app push notifications. The system also supports human and vehicle detection when used with Anpviz’s HK series PoE cameras, enhancing security and minimizing false alarms.

The Anpviz 16CH 4K POE NVR Network Video Recorder is a high-quality product that offers reliable and convenient surveillance for home security camera systems. With its advanced features, such as H.265+ compression, PoE support, and smart motion detection, it ensures efficient storage, stable transmission, and accurate monitoring.

• H.265+ compression for efficient storage and cost reduction

• Plug & play functionality for easy setup

• Support for third-party IP cameras

• Stable power and video signal transmission with PoE

• Smart motion detection and customizable schedules

• Human and vehicle detection capability

• Must be used with Anpviz’s HK series PoE cameras for human and vehicle detection feature to work

• HDD installation or disabling the buzzer reminder function required for noiseless operation.

EmpireTech NVR 5-EI Series AI Network Video Recorder

The EmpireTech NVR 5-EI Series Smart H.265+ AI Network Video Recorder is a versatile device designed for professional surveillance applications. It is perfect for small to medium-sized businesses or homeowners who require a reliable and efficient video recording solution.

One of the main reasons we love the EmpireTech NVR 5-EI Series NVR is its advanced artificial intelligence capabilities. With 2-channel face detection and recognition, 4-channel perimeter protection, and 8-channel SMD Plus, this NVR offers superior surveillance accuracy and efficiency. It also supports various AI features by camera, such as face detection and recognition, perimeter protection, SMD Plus, metadata, ANPR, stereo analysis, heat map, and people counting.

The EmpireTech NVR 5-EI Series NVR serves as the central hub for managing and recording video footage from IP cameras. It supports multiple decoding formats, including Smart H.265+, H.265, Smart H.264+, H.264, and MJPEG. With a maximum incoming/recording/outgoing bandwidth of 384 Mbps, it ensures smooth and uninterrupted video streaming.

This NVR also features 8PoE ports, eliminating the need for separate power supplies for each connected camera. It can support up to 8 camera channels, making it suitable for small to medium-sized surveillance systems. Additionally, it has 2 HDD ports with a capacity of up to 16 TB to store extensive amounts of video data.

To enhance system security, the EmpireTech NVR 5-EI Series NVR is equipped with AI functions for face detection and recognition, perimeter protection, and SMD Plus. It also complies with security baseline 2.3 standards, ensuring the highest level of data protection.

The EmpireTech NVR 5-EI Series Smart H.265+ AI Network Video Recorder showcases exceptional quality and performance. With its robust construction and advanced features, it provides reliable and efficient video recording capabilities for any surveillance application.

Pros:

• Advanced AI capabilities for accurate surveillance
• Multiple AI features supported by camera
• High bandwidth capacity for smooth video streaming
• Convenient 8PoE ports for easy camera installation
• Ample storage capacity with 2 HDD ports

Cons:

• Maximum HDD capacity varies with environment temperature

The EmpireTech NVR 5-EI Series Smart H.265+ AI Network Video Recorder is a highly recommended choice for anyone seeking a reliable and feature-rich surveillance solution. Its advanced AI capabilities, high bandwidth capacity, and convenient design make it a top-notch option for small to medium-sized surveillance systems.

Product Comparison

Product Name	Specifications
4K 8CH Network Video Recorder with Screen, Jennov 8CH POE NVR	– 8.0 Megapixel (3840x2160p) high quality HD image – Supports up to 4K/8MP HDMI output – DIY Plug & Play Setup – Works with Third-Party Cameras – 24/7 Recording & Smart Alerts – Ultra 265 Video Compression
Zypola® 1080p 8 Channel Hybrid CCTV DVR Recorder	– 5-in-1 Hybrid DVR – Flexible Input Modes – Immersive Full HD HDMI & VGA Output – Multi-Channel Playback Made Easy – Remote Access on Any Device & Browser
ANNKE 5MP Lite 16 Channel Security Video Recorder with AI Human/Vehicle Detection	– Innovative Human & Vehicle Detection – 5-in-1 Hybrid DVR – Security-Grade 2 TB HDD & H.265+ Coding – Remote Access with All Devices & Browsers – Completely Free 2-Year Warranty & Accessories
Tenda NVR N3L-16H 4K 16CH Network Video Recorder	– Up to 16-CH 8MP/4K network camera inputs – Easy Setup & Wide Compatibility – H.265+ Video Compression – Improved Data Safety and Security – Cloud Storage & Remote Viewing
Ubiquiti UniFi Network Video Recorder Pro	– Works with UniFi Protect application – Add 60 cameras to your system – Remotely access your camera streams and recordings for free – Store your footage locally
EmpireTech NVR 5-EI Series 32 Channels 1U 16PoE 2HDD Smart H.265+ AI Network Video Recorder	– Smart H.265+/H.265/Smart H.264+/H.264/MJPEG decoding format – 32-channel 1080p self-adaptive decoding capability – Max. 384 Mbps incoming/recording/outgoing bandwidth – AI features include face detection and recognition, perimeter protection, and SMD Plus – 2HDDs: 2 SATA ports, up to 16 TB
Anpviz 16CH 4K POE NVR Network Video Recorder	– H.265+ compression & 4K 16CH 8MP IP input – Plug & Play functionality – Reliable PoE Security System – Smart Motion Detect and Alert – Local & Remote Access – Human & Vehicle Detection
EmpireTech NVR 5-EI Series Smart H.265+ AI 8 Channels 1U 8PoE 2HDD Network Video Recorder	– Smart H.265+/H.265/Smart H.264+/H.264/MJPEG decoding format – Max. 384 Mbps incoming/recording/outgoing bandwidth – AI features include face detection and recognition, perimeter protection, SMD Plus, metadata, ANPR, and people counting – 2HDDs: 2 SATA ports, up to 16 TB

Note: Specifications may vary across different models of the same product. Please refer to the specific product page for detailed specifications.

Conclusion:

After reviewing all 8 products, it can be concluded that there are several reliable options available for network video recorders (NVRs). Each product has its own unique features and specifications to cater to different surveillance needs.

Product Summary:

1. 4K 8CH Network Video Recorder with Screen: This NVR by Jennov supports up to 8 x 8MP/4K IP cameras and offers Power over Ethernet (PoE) functionality. However, it does not come with a hard drive.

2. Zypola® 1080p 8 Channel Hybrid CCTV DVR Recorder: This hybrid CCTV DVR recorder supports multiple camera types and comes pre-installed with a 1TB hard drive. It also offers remote access and HDMI/VGA output.

3. ANNKE 5MP Lite 16 Channel Security Video Recorder: With AI-based human/vehicle detection and a 2TB hard drive, this H.265+ 5-in-1 hybrid DVR from ANNKE is suitable for home and business surveillance. It can support 16 analog channels and 2 IP cameras.

4. Tenda NVR N3L-16H 4K 16CH Network Video Recorder: This NVR supports various camera resolutions and offers H.265 compression technology. It can support up to 10TB HDD, but does not provide Power over Ethernet.

5. Ubiquiti UniFi Network Video Recorder Pro (UNVR-Pro): Designed for professional use, this NVR offers high-quality recording. However, specific details were not mentioned in the review.

6. EmpireTech NVR 5-EI Series 32 Channels 1U 16PoE 2HDD Network Video Recorder: This NVR supports face recognition, Smart H.265+ AI, and has a large bandwidth capacity. With 32 channels and Power over Ethernet support, it is suitable for larger surveillance setups.

7. Anpviz 16CH 4K POE NVR Network Video Recorder: This NVR boasts support for high-resolution cameras and a pre-installed 4TB hard drive. It also supports various camera resolutions.

8. EmpireTech NVR 5-EI Series Smart H.265+ AI 8 Channels 1U 8PoE 2HDD Network Video Recorder: Similar to the previous EmpireTech model, this NVR offers face recognition, Smart H.265+ AI, and a 384 Mbps bandwidth capacity. However, it supports fewer channels and Power over Ethernet ports.

Drawbacks:

Overall, while these NVRs come with various features and specifications, some drawbacks were identified. Some products lack a pre-installed hard drive, requiring the additional purchase and installation of storage. Additionally, the specific features and performance of certain models, such as the Ubiquiti UniFi Network Video Recorder Pro, were not fully discussed or evaluated in the review.

Recommendation:

For home surveillance with multiple cameras, the Anpviz 16CH 4K POE NVR Network Video Recorder stands out with its pre-installed 4TB hard drive and support for high-resolution cameras. It offers a suitable balance of features and storage capacity for an average home user.

However, for larger surveillance setups, the EmpireTech NVR 5-EI Series 32 Channels 1U 16PoE 2HDD Smart H.265+ AI Network Video Recorder is recommended. It supports face recognition, Smart H.265+ AI, and has a higher bandwidth capacity, making it suitable for business or commercial use.

Ultimately, the choice of NVR depends on the specific requirements of the user or organization, such as the number of cameras needed, storage capacity, and advanced features like AI-based detection.