DVR vs NVR: What's the Difference?

DVR and NVR recorders both store CCTV footage, but they work with different camera types and process video differently.

A DVR records footage from analog cameras sent over coaxial cable, while an NVR records footage from IP cameras that send already-digitised video over network cable. The recorder type is chosen to match the camera type installed.

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How a DVR works

A DVR (Digital Video Recorder) pairs with analog cameras, which send a raw video signal over coaxial cable to the recorder. The DVR itself converts that signal into digital video and writes it to storage. Because the cameras don't process the video themselves, DVR systems are generally simpler and camera hardware tends to be lower cost, but resolution options can be more limited than IP alternatives.

How an NVR works

An NVR (Network Video Recorder) pairs with IP cameras, which digitise and compress the video themselves before sending it over a network cable (often via PoE, powering the camera over the same cable). The NVR receives already-digital video and stores it. IP cameras generally support higher resolutions and additional features like on-camera analytics, at a higher typical hardware cost than analog equivalents.

Which camera types pair with which

Analog dome and bullet cameras connect to a DVR over coaxial cable. IP versions of dome, bullet and PTZ cameras (see our camera types guide) connect to an NVR over network cable. The two aren't generally interchangeable — the camera type installed determines which recorder is needed.

Comparing DVR and NVR

Aspect	DVR	NVR
Camera type	Analog cameras	IP cameras
Cabling	Coaxial cable	Network (Ethernet/PoE) cable
Video processing	Recorder digitises the signal	Camera digitises the signal before sending
Typical resolution	Generally lower, though HD analog options exist	Generally higher, with a wider range of options
Storage need	Depends on resolution, camera count and retention period	Typically higher due to higher-resolution footage

The right choice depends on the cameras being installed, existing cabling and the resolution needed — this is confirmed as part of system planning. See our CCTV installation service for how recorder selection fits into the wider installation.