Glossary · Cameras and recording
DVR (digital video recorder)
A DVR (digital video recorder) is a box that records video from older analog cameras connected by coaxial cable.
What it means for you
Most current home cameras are network cameras that use an NVR, a microSD card or a cloud plan instead, so a DVR mostly appears in older or inexpensive wired systems. The two are not interchangeable, so check which type of cameras a recorder supports.
Guides on this topic
- Best PoE Camera and NVR Kits
PoE and NVR explained, with kits for 24/7 whole-home recording to a local drive.
- Local vs Cloud Storage for Security Cameras
microSD, hubs, NVRs and cloud plans compared, and which to choose.
Related terms
← All glossary terms · Search all guides for “DVR”
Definitions are short and general. For model-specific details, check your device maker’s own documentation.