Rating of the best video recorders of video surveillance systems for 2022

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

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

Purpose and application

A 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 detection, 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;

• monitoring 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;

• identification of wanted persons.

Principle of operation

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

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

• analog-to-digital converter;

• CPU;

• motherboard;

• working memory;

• HDD;

• power unit;

• frame.

It is possible to connect additional components:

• IP cameras;

• PTZ cameras;

• external drives.

A single architecture is managed 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 to analog surveillance devices via coaxial cables. Encoding and image processing is performed directly in the DVR. As a rule, it is installed on small or medium objects.

Advantages:

• continuity of fixation of 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.

Flaws:

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

2. Network (Network Video Recorder, NVR).

Unlike analog models in network models, encoding and image processing is performed by an IP video camera with subsequent transmission via a network cable to a video recorder for remote viewing or storage.

Advantages:

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

Flaws:

• instability of signals;
• complexity of installation, programming, configuration;
• the problem of compatibility of 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 taken into account that the characteristics are directly affected 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, you need to compare the values, what to look for before ordering a suitable model online in the online store.

1. Compatibility of the recorder and cameras while supporting the same video standards:

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

2. Permission.

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

3. Video recording speed.

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

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

The overall speed can be redistributed between the cameras.

four.Number and type of hard drives.

As a rule, they are purchased separately, since often the registrar does not provide for installation. Should be with a large amount of memory for writing-rewriting. As a rule, hard drives up to 6 TB are used, while there is not always support for connecting 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 recommended hard drives for their products.

5. Interfaces for additional equipment.

• Number of video inputs - the number of connected analog devices. Network are connected through 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. Speakers or other equipment can be connected to the output.
• Alarm inputs/outputs – for connecting sensors to start recording, as well as turn on a spotlight, siren or surveillance concentration 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 detection - start recording with the beginning of movement on the object to facilitate the search for the right moments or save space;
• compression format - usually MPEG4 part10;
• network protocols - the ability to access via the Internet;
• Multitasking is the ability to perform different tasks at the same time:
  • simplex - one task, when viewing images, recording on the hard drive stops;
  • duplex - recording to disk and viewing the archive;
  • triplex - image signal transmission to the screen is added;
  • pentaplex - complex operation of the device for the simultaneous performance of different tasks.

Video tutorial "How to choose a DVR":

Where could 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 - which company's products are better to buy, how much it costs, which popular models are the most purchased. At the same time, you can see or touch the product, read the description, compare the characteristics, and also clarify the features.

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

Currently in Moscow you can buy:

• analog models priced from 1970 rubles (Inspect INS-S800) to 157890 rubles (HikVision DS-8132HUHI-K8);
• network - from 1709 rubles (Onvif PTZ H264) to 2032704 rubles (AXIS S1148 140TB);
• hybrid - from 2100 rubles (Master MR-HR480P2) to 218000 rubles (LTV RTP-161 02).

The best video recorders for video surveillance systems

The rating of high-quality devices is compiled in accordance with the popularity of models in specialized stores according to 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).
The country of origin is China.

A compact Chinese-made model for expanding existing and creating new construction surveillance systems 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 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 audio;
• dual stream video;
• integration with ATMs;
• alarm inputs/output;
• long manufacturer's warranty.

• without motion detector.

Video review:

Proto-X PTX-UDR1604HD

Brand - Proto-X (Republic of Korea).
The country of origin is China.

The latest product of the joint development of Russian and South Korean engineers for integrated 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 efficient remote control of the instrument.

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

• no alarm input/output;
• high price.

HiWatch DS-H116G

Brand - HiWatch (China).
The country of origin is China.

A successful model of a 16-channel Chinese-made recorder for video surveillance systems at small facilities using analog cameras. Connecting via VGA 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 enough space for archiving and storing information. Support for DualStream with two-way audio to communicate with people near the cameras.

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

• no alarm 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:
Quantity	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	No	Yes	No
PTZ control	No	Yes	No
General:
Food, 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 NVRs

Zodikam NVR4208-E

Brand - Zodikam (Russia).
The country of origin is China.

A universal Chinese-made model for creating an inexpensive, effective security system.The device has excellent performance with a convenient solution for storing and remotely viewing video images. Controlled by software or via browser. The ability to control the rotary device.

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

• clearly expressed were not identified.

EZVIZ Vault Live 4CH

Brand - Ezviz (China).
The country of origin is China.

A universal Chinese-made model 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 switch with any IP cameras that operate via Wi-Fi at a maximum distance of up to 100 meters and are automatically detected on the network. Suitable for any FullHD monitors. The company uses its Ezviz cloud service, which allows you to configure as well as watch videos on mobile devices or a laptop at any time.

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

• only one USB port.

Video review of the procedure for starting the recorder:

HiWatch DS-N316/2

Brand - HiWatch (China).
The country of origin is China.

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

• a high resolution;
• high quality video processing without delays and errors;
• convenient software;
• the minimum number of IP cameras is 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 setting up the device:

Dahua DH-NVR2208-S2

Brand - Dahua (China).
The country of origin is China.

Network eight-channel model of Chinese production for video surveillance systems of small objects at a reasonable price. Provides connection of IP-cameras up to 6 megapixels. The use of a 1.6 GHz processor compresses video to H.264+ format with the possibility of saving up to half the amount of hard drive memory.

With the use of ANR technology, in the absence of a 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 throughput;
• 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).
The country of origin is China.

Network eight-channel model of Chinese assembly for the quick creation of a video surveillance system, compatible with the equipment of its brand and the ability to connect video cameras from other manufacturers. Fast finding of image fragments is carried out using smart-search. Backup is performed on external media connected via USB ports. The power supply to the 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 electrics;
• Motion Detector;
• long warranty;
• stylish design.

• a little noisy;
• high 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:
Quantity	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	No	Yes	Yes	Yes
PTZ control	Yes	No	No	Yes	No
General:
Food, V	12	220	12	12	220
Dimensions (LxWxH), mm	233x300x45	270x235x45	380x290x48	375x275x53	385x315x52
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).
The country of origin is 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 during facility repairs. Supports four channels with simultaneous recording, display, playback, backup and network remote operation. Viewable on mobile devices.

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

• not detected.

REXANT 45-0171

Brand - Rexant (China).
The country of origin is China.

Universal hybrid four-channel model for online monitoring, recording, playback and backup of video images. High resolution HDMI and VGA video outputs. Remote control from mobile platforms 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 email distribution;
• backup on external media;
• support for mobile devices;
• availability of a cloud service;
• good quality-price ratio.

• there are no alarm input/output.

Falcon Eye FE-2104MHD

Brand - Falcon Eye (Canada)
The country of origin is 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 can be done by motion, schedule, alarm or manually.

• 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 alarm input/output.

Video review of the functionality:

Zodikam H4208

Brand - Zodikam (Russia).
The country of origin is China.

A universal eight-channel Chinese-made model for creating an effective security system without extra financial costs. Quiet device with excellent characteristics and functionality, fully justify the low cost.

• high quality video image;
• simple 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).
The country of origin is China.

A compact multi-format eight-channel model made in China for upgrading 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.Built-in intelligent video analytics (IVS) allows you to detect and analyze moving objects. It supports zone intrusion detection, detection of forgotten and lost items, face recognition, and visitor counting. 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 megapixels;
• image output to any monitor or TV via HDMI or VGS outputs;
• high resolution video recording;
• with built-in video analytics;
• recording and archiving of a long period of 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 setup 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:
Quantity	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:
Food, 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 large 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 stay healthy!