Rating of the best video surveillance recorders for 2024

The central link of the video surveillance system is the video recorder, which combines video cameras of various formats, microphones, sensors, hard drives, control panels, network equipment, and other devices into a single configuration.

When choosing a suitable model, it is important to know what characteristics and functionality will be required to complete current tasks, as well as achieve the set goals for the future. The review reveals questions about what products are, their description in order to choose, in the opinion of buyers, the best devices.

Purpose and application

Video recorder is a device for receiving, processing and archiving signals from video cameras for playing video images on monitors or broadcasting over local networks or the Internet.

As a rule, the product is ready for use after installing a hard disk with sufficient memory and setting up video capture (motion detectors, blind spots). In addition, technical capabilities allow you to connect not only cameras, but also additional equipment to the device.

Used in video surveillance systems for:

• protection of apartments, houses or offices;

• observation of industrial premises or territories;

• control of visitors or employees;

• supervision of cash or banking operations;

• fixing state registration plates of vehicles or registering cars in parking lots;

• identifying wanted persons.

Principle of operation

1. The signal goes to the DVR.
2. The received data is processed to the required video format and compressed.
3. The video material is recorded on a hard disk (removable media) for storage, as well as broadcasting to a monitor or network.
4. The operator in standby mode looks at the current situation on the monitor, displaying the material simultaneously or sequentially (automatically / manually).

The configuration of the product is similar to the device of the computer system unit and includes:

• analog-to-digital converter;

• CPU;

• motherboard;

• random access memory;

• HDD;

• Power Supply;

• body.

In this case, it is possible to connect additional components:

• IP cameras;

• PTZ cameras;

• external storage.

The unified architecture is controlled by specialized software that allows you to resist extraneous influences in the form of virus or network attacks.

Types of DVRs

1. Analog (Digital Video Recorder, DVR).

In this case, the product is connected via coaxial cables to analog surveillance devices. Image encoding and processing is performed directly in the DVR. Typically installed in small to medium sized facilities.

Advantages:

• continuity of fixing the video stream;
• compatibility of different equipment;
• easy installation;
• the ability to install a microphone;
• ease of setup, operation and maintenance;
• big choice;
• low price.

Disadvantages:

• lack of signal encryption;
• susceptibility to interference when laying fiber-optic cable next to other wires;
• inability to track the image over the Internet;
• poor image quality without the function of zooming in or out;
• laboriousness of working with cables for each camera;
• limited signal transmission distance up to 300 meters from the DVR.

2. Network (Network Video Recorder, NVR).

Unlike analog ones in network models, the encoding and processing of the image is performed by an IP-video camera, followed by transmission via a network cable to a DVR for remote viewing or storage.

Advantages:

• flexible system of settings;
• integrated mini-computer for remote operations;
• convenient installation anywhere when in the same network with IP cameras;
• easy connection via PoE switch and wireless router;
• good video quality;
• presence of a motion sensor;
• high degree of encryption;
• long range of Internet connection.

Disadvantages:

• instability of signals;
• the complexity of installation, programming, settings;
• compatibility issue with only one video format;
• high price.

3. Hybrid (Hybrid Digital Video Recorder, HDVR).

Versatile products that combine the capabilities of analog and network devices.

Criterias of choice

It should be borne in mind that the characteristics are directly influenced by the tasks and structure of the video surveillance system, as well as the prospects for its expansion or modernization. Therefore, in order not to make mistakes when choosing, it is necessary to compare the values, what to look for before ordering a suitable model online in the online store.

1. Compatibility of the DVR and cameras with the support of the same video standards:

• simple analog;
• analog AHD;
• IP standard.

2. Permission.

Recording is carried out with the maximum resolution available to the recorder, and not transmitted by the video camera. If it is necessary to distinguish small details of the image (denominations of bills, machine numbers), equipment with very high parameters is required.

3. Video recording speed.

The best option is online video for each channel, which is achieved at 25 frames per second. However, the value of the value is influenced by the speed of development of the observed events:

• for an ordinary object - 3 - 6 fps;
• when monitoring the activities of employees - 12 c / s;
• fraud detection - 25 fps.

Overall speed can be redistributed between cameras.

4. The number and type of hard drives.

As a rule, they are purchased separately, since the installation is often not provided in the registrar. Should be with a large amount of memory for recording / rewriting. As a rule, hard drives up to 6 TB are used, and it is not always possible to connect more than one drive. In addition, it is necessary to take into account the compatibility of equipment of different brands.

The best manufacturers always report the recommended hard drives for their products.

5. Interfaces for additional equipment.

• Number of video inputs - the number of connected analog devices. Network connections are connected via the LAN connector over the network.

Each analog camera requires a separate input. It is better to choose with a margin for the subsequent expansion of the surveillance network.

• Audio Inputs / Outputs (RCA) - for transmitting and recording audio.The output can be connected to speakers or other equipment.
• Alarm inputs-outputs - for connecting sensors to start recording, as well as turn on a spotlight, siren or concentration of surveillance in the direction of an alarm event.
• RS-485 connectors - for switching equipment with remote control (PTZ) and the ability to turn on the zoom or turn in the desired direction.
• BNC connectors - for a TV monitor.
• VGA connectors - for a computer monitor.
• HDMI connectors - for a FullHD monitor.

6. Additional characteristics.

• motion detector - start recording with the beginning of movement on the object to facilitate the search for the necessary moments or save space;
• compression format - usually MPEG4 part10;
• network protocols - the ability to access the Internet;
• multitasking - the ability to simultaneously perform different tasks:
  • simplex - one task, when viewing images, recording to the hard drive stops;
  • duplex - recording to disk and viewing the archive;
  • triplex - the transmission of the image signal to the screen is added;
  • pentaplex - complex operation of the device for the simultaneous execution of different tasks.

Video tutorial "How to choose a DVR":

Where can I buy

It is better to buy inexpensive budget video recorders in the departments of specialized equipment for video surveillance systems. Managers who have undergone special training will give valuable recommendations and advice - the products of which company is better to buy, how much it costs, which popular models are the most bought. In this case, the product can be viewed or touched, read the description, compare the characteristics, and also clarify the features.

In addition, it is easy to choose new items from the best manufacturers on the pages of Yandex.Market or E-catalog aggregators, where offers with photos and direct links for purchase are accumulated.

Currently in Moscow you can buy:

• analog models priced from 1970 rubles (Inspect INS-S800) to 157,890 rubles (HikVision DS-8132HUHI-K8);
• network - from 1709 rubles (Onvif PTZ H264) to 2,032704 rubles (AXIS S1148 140TB);
• hybrid - from 2,100 rubles (Master MR-HR480P2) to 218,000 rubles (LTV RTP-161 02).

The best video recorders for video surveillance systems

The rating of quality devices is compiled in accordance with the popularity of models in specialized stores in the opinion of buyers who left feedback on the results of operation. The list includes the main types of DVRs - analog, network and hybrid.

TOP 3 best analog video recorders

TRASSIR Lanser 960H-4 3.5

Brand - Trassir (Russia).
Country of origin - China.

A compact Chinese-made model for expanding existing and creating new surveillance systems during construction using analog CCTV devices. Allows connection of up to four video cameras with a resolution of 960x576 and a frequency of 25 fps. The video is compressed using the H.264 codec. DualStream is supported. Equipped with four audio channels and two-way audio capabilities. It is possible to connect one hard drive.

• compactness;
• switching up to four analog devices;
• two-way sound;
• dual stream video;
• integration with ATMs;
• alarm inputs / outputs;
• long manufacturer's warranty.

• without motion detector.

Video review:

Proto-X PTX-UDR1604HD

Brand - Proto-X (Republic of Korea).
Country of origin - China.

The newest product of joint development of Russian and South Korean engineers for complex video surveillance systems at small facilities using analog equipment. A high-quality model with a clear and convenient interface and advanced functionality. The software is compatible with Mac and Windows operating systems and allows for efficient remote control of the device.

• original design and translation into Russian;
• with the "remote DVR" function for viewing online video from one device and archive recordings of another device over the network;
• connection of two 4 TB hard drives;
• control of temperature and condition of hard drives;
• function of calculating the remaining recording time;
• secure SSL channel for sending mail;
• convenient search in the archive;
• use of mobile applications to view recordings and online;
• Motion Detector;
• long warranty period.

• no disturbing input / output;
• high price.

HiWatch DS-H116G

Brand - HiWatch (China).
Country of origin - China.

A successful model of a 16-channel Chinese-made recorder for video surveillance systems at small facilities using analog video cameras. The VGA connection allows you to display the image in multi-window mode on a monitor with a choice of up to 16 windows. The hard drive slot provides ample space for archiving and storing information. DualStream support with two-way audio for communicating with people in the vicinity of cameras.

• a high resolution;
• support for 16 channels for analog equipment;
• two-way sound;
• HDMI video output;
• low price;
• high build quality.

• no disturbing input / output;
• no motion detector.

comparison table

	TRASSIR Lanser 960H-4 3.5	Proto-X PTX-UDR1604HD	HiWatch DS-H116G
Number of channels	4	16	16
Drives:
amount	1	2	1
Maximum capacity, TB	3.5	8 (2x4)	6
Video:
Resolution (all channels), pix	960x576	1080x720	1280x720
Maximum resolution, pix	960x576	1080x720	1280x720
Frame rate, fps	25	25	25
Compression format	H.264	H.264	H.264
Connectors:
BNC video input	4	16	16
BNC video output	1	1	0
RCA audio input	4	4	1
RCA audio output		1	1
USB	2	3	2
HDMI	1	1	1
VGA	1	1	1
LAN (RJ-45)		1	1
Alarm input	4	0	0
Alarm output	1	0	0
Additional connectors	RS-485	RS-485	0
Motion Detector	not	Yes	not
PTZ control	not	Yes	not
General:
Power supply, V	220	12	12
Dimensions (LxWxH), mm	250x170x92	320x340x70	285x210x45
Weight, g	3500	5000	1200
Guarantee period	60 months	60 months	24 months
price, rub.	17079	34000 - 40800	7184 - 14370

TOP 5 best network video recorders

Zodikam NVR4208-E

Brand - Zodikam (Russia).
Country of origin - China.

A universal model made in China for creating an inexpensive effective security system. The device has excellent performance with a convenient solution for storing and viewing video images remotely. Managed by software or browser. Possibility to control a rotary device.

• a high resolution;
• simultaneous support for eight channels;
• Motion Sensor;
• email notification;
• control of approach and rotary device;
• availability of remote access using the XMEYE application;
• good value for money;
• Russian language support.

• clearly expressed are not identified.

EZVIZ Vault Live 4CH

Brand - Ezviz (China).
Country of origin - China.

A universal model made in China with support for the closed Hikvision and Ezviz protocols to solve the problems of connecting video cameras that work through them. With the open ONIF standard, it is possible to connect to any IP cameras that operate via Wi-Fi for a maximum distance of up to 100 meters and are automatically detected in the network. Suitable for any FullHD monitors. The company uses its cloud service Ezviz, which allows customization and video viewing on mobile devices or laptop at any time.

• a high resolution;
• lightweight construction;
• does not overheat;
• work with a branded cloud service;
• the possibility of remote control using a computer and mobile devices;
• microphone input;
• video output duplication;
• sound output to the speaker;
• reliability;
• low cost.

• there is only one USB port.

Video review of the DVR startup procedure:

HiWatch DS-N316 / 2

Brand - HiWatch (China).
Country of origin - China.

A Chinese-made network model for expanding existing video surveillance systems or creating new small systems with a limited budget. Provides connection of up to 16 8 Mp IP cameras with a total bit rate of up to 160 Mbps. Best picture quality through HDMI port.

• a high resolution;
• processing of video broadcasts with high quality without delays and errors;
• convenient software;
• minimum number of IP cameras up to 16 pieces;
• support for two video streams;
• the ability to connect two hard drives with a total volume of 12 TB;
• remote control over the network;
• work through mobile applications for Android and iOS.

• short wires for connecting hard drives.

Video review of launching and configuring the device:

Dahua DH-NVR2208-S2

Brand - Dahua (China).
Country of origin - China.

China-made eight-channel network model for video surveillance systems of small objects at a reasonable price. Provides connection of IP cameras up to 6 Mpix. Using a 1.6 GHz processor compresses video to H.264 + format with the ability to save up to half the memory capacity of the hard drive.

Using ANR technology, if there is no network connection with IP cameras, recording is performed on SD cards installed on them. After the connection is restored, the information is overwritten.

• dual-core processor for processing;
• good bandwidth;
• high resolution on eight channels;
• adding equipment by QR-code;
• cloud service Easy4ip;
• connection of two hard drives with a total volume of 12 TB;
• Motion Detector;
• backup.

• not detected.

Video review:

Hikvision DS-7608NI-K2 / 8P

Brand - Hikvision (China).
Country of origin - China.

Networked eight-channel model of the Chinese assembly for quickly creating a video surveillance system, compatible with the equipment of its brand and the ability to connect video cameras from other manufacturers. Quick finding of image fragments is carried out using smart search. The backup is performed on external media connected via USB ports. Power supply to cameras (PoE) is carried out at a distance of up to 300 meters using a high-quality UTP cable.

• eight channels;
• the maximum number of control inputs is four;
• ultra high resolution
• connection of two hard drives with a total volume of 12 TB;
• excellent build quality;
• simple settings and electrician;
• Motion Detector;
• long warranty;
• stylish design.

• makes a little noise;
• big average price.

Video review:

comparison table

	Zodikam NVR4208-E	EZVIZ Vault Live 4CH	HiWatch DS-N316 / 2	Dahua DH-NVR2208-S2	Hikvision DS-7608NI-K2 / 8P
Number of channels	8	4	16	8	8
Drives:
amount	1	1	2	2	2
Maximum capacity, TB	6	6	12	12	12
Video:
Resolution (all channels), pix	1080x720	1920x1080	640x480	1920x1080	1920x1080
Maximum resolution, pix	1920x1080	1920x1080	3072x2048	3072x2048	4096x2160
Compression format	H.264 / MJPEG	H.264	H.264; H.264 +	H.264	H.265; H.264; MPEG4
Connectors:
RCA audio input	0	1	1	1	1
RCA audio output	0	1	1	1	1
USB	2	1	2	2	2
HDMI	1	1	1	1	1
VGA	1	1	1	1	1
LAN (RJ-45)	1	1	1	1	9
Motion Detector	Yes	not	Yes	Yes	Yes
PTZ control	Yes	not	not	Yes	not
General:
Power supply, V	12	220	12	12	220
Dimensions (LxWxH), mm	233x300x45	270x235x45	380x290x48	375x275x53	385х315х52
Weight, g	750	1300	1000	1500	3000
Guarantee period	12 months	12 months	24 months	12 months	36 months
price, rub.	4290	3654 - 6990	8150 - 30620	7176 - 9112	13132 - 22390

TOP 5 best hybrid DVRs

Eseeco VD-X6004HN-C

Brand - Eseeco (China).
Country of origin - China.

A Chinese-made hybrid model that supports analog and network cameras up to 2.0 megapixels, for creating new video surveillance systems or expanding existing ones, including when renovating an object. Supports four channels with simultaneous recording, display, playback, backup and remote network operation. Ability to view through mobile devices.

• operation in pentaplex mode is possible;
• backup to external media via USB ports, incl. with adapter for memory cards;
• work in the cloud service xmeye.net;
• video recording by motion detector or schedule, as well as continuous;
• broadcasting sound over the network;
• simple use;
• small price.

• not detected.

REXANT 45-0171

Brand - Rexant (China).
Country of origin - China.

Versatile hybrid four-channel model for online monitoring, recording, playback and backup of video images. High definition HDMI and VGA video outputs. Remote control from mobile platforms and using vMEyeSuper and vMEyeCloud software. Recording is carried out in four modes: continuous, motion, schedule or event.

• a high resolution;
• 64 cameras in one window for remote viewing;
• support for five remote users with e-mail distribution;
• backup on external media;
• support for mobile devices;
• availability of a cloud service;
• good quality-price ratio.

• there are no disturbing input / output.

Falcon Eye FE-2104MHD

Brand - Falcon Eye (Canada)
Country of origin - China.

A compact four-channel model made in China for self-creation of a video surveillance system. Equipped with PTZ technology support for remote control. Video signals in PAL and NTSC format. One hard drive is connected with a maximum volume of up to 6 TB. Recording is performed by motion, schedule, alarm or manual.

• high resolution FullHD;
• reliability;
• work with various types of analog and network surveillance devices;
• remote viewing of video images on mobile devices using P2P cloud technology;
• Motion Detector;
• Wi-Fi Internet connection;
• infrared illumination up to 25 meters;
• four cylindrical chambers included.

• sensitivity to overheating;
• no disturbing input / output.

Functional video review:

Zodikam H4208

Brand - Zodikam (Russia).
Country of origin - China.

A universal eight-channel model made in China for creating an effective security system without extra financial costs. A quiet device with excellent characteristics and functionality, fully justifies its low cost.

• high quality video images;
• easy installation;
• fast processing of incoming information;
• stable operation in a wide temperature range;
• excellent value for money.

• not detected.

Dahua DHI-XVR5108HE-S2

Brand - Dahua (China).
Country of origin - China.

A compact multi-format eight-channel model of Chinese production for the modernization of existing and building new video surveillance systems. Supports five video signal formats AHD, CVBS, IP, HDCVI and TVI. Provides high quality video and excellent color reproduction. Integrated Intelligent Video Analytics (IVS) detects and analyzes moving objects. Provides support for detection of intrusion into the zone, identification of forgotten and lost items, face recognition, registration of visitors. Works with various types of video cameras. Standard mouse control via USB port. The rights of local users are flexibly delimited.

• work on eight channels with cameras up to 4 Mpix;
• image output to any monitor or TV via HDM or VGS outputs;
• high resolution video recording;
• with built-in video analytics function;
• recording and archiving for a long period; observation on an 8 TB hard drive installed inside the device;
• eight alarm inputs for switching sensors and three relay outputs;
• remote control of rotary devices;
• possibility of remote access via Ethernet 100Base-TX;
• easy configuration in the P2P cloud service;
• excellent build quality;
• use of the Russian language in the graphical interface.

• high price.

Video review:

comparison table

	Eseeco VD-X6004HN-C	REXANT 45-0171	Falcon Eye FE-2104MHD	Zodikam H4208	Dahua DHI-XVR5108HE-S2
Number of channels	4	4	4	8	8
Drives:
amount	1	1	1	1	1
Maximum capacity, TB	6	4	6	4	8
Video:
Resolution (all channels), pix	704x240	720x480	1920x1080	1280x720	1280x720
Maximum resolution, pix	1920x1080	720x480	1920x1080	1920x1080	1920x1080
Frame rate, fps	25	25	25	25	25
Compression format	H.264	H.264	H.264	H.264	H.264; H.264 +
Connectors:
BNC video input	4	4	4	8	8
RCA audio input	1	4	4	4	8
RCA audio output	1	1	1	1	1
USB	2	1	2	2	2
HDMI	1	1	1	1	1
VGA	1	1	1	1	1
LAN (RJ-45)	1	1	1	1	1
Motion Detector	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
General:
Power supply, V	12	12	12	12	12
Dimensions (LxWxH), mm	330x290x80	210x200x45	250x230x45	354x245x45	325x255x55
Weight, g	1200	955	1200	1500	1500
Guarantee period	12 months	12 months	36 months	12 months	12 months
price, rub.	2890	4115	5302 - 19990	5995 - 6990	9390 - 14990

Conclusion

When choosing a DVR, you should also pay attention to the operating conditions, and not just the characteristics. Do not chase too high a resolution, then you will need more expensive equipment and larger volumes of hard drives.It is better to turn to professionals for advice, and they will help you choose a model that meets the size and specifics of the security system.

Happy shopping and good luck!