Best Hard Drive Surveillance Video Recorders of 2025

Mike Davis Avatar
Mike Davis
Last Updated: Jan 4, 2025

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Hard drive surveillance video recorders are a practical and reliable solution for businesses and homeowners who want to keep an eye on their properties. These devices come equipped with a hard drive that can store large amounts of video footage, giving users the ability to access and review recorded footage whenever they need to. With advanced features such as motion detection, remote access, and real-time monitoring, these recorders are an effective way to keep your property safe and secure. They are easy to install and use, making them an ideal choice for anyone who wants to enhance their security system.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

ANNKE 16CH 1080P Lite Hybrid 5-in-1 CCTV DVR Cover #TOP 1
ANNKE 16CH 1080P Lite Hybrid 5-in-1 CCTV DVR
ftb score rating icon 9.9
REOLINK 8Ch NVR for Home Security Camera System Cover #TOP 2
REOLINK 8Ch NVR for Home Security Camera System
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ZOSI H.265+ 5MP Lite 8CH Hybrid 4-in-1 CCTV DVR Cover #TOP 3
ZOSI H.265+ 5MP Lite 8CH Hybrid 4-in-1 CCTV DVR
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Hard Drive Surveillance Video Recorders

ANNKE 16CH 1080P Lite Hybrid 5-in-1 CCTV DVR

G 711
ANNKE 16CH 1080P Lite Hybrid 5-in-1 CCTV DVR Cover
ANNKE 16CH 1080P Lite Hybrid 5-in-1(TVI/AHD/CVI/CVBS/IPC) CCTV DVR, Motion Detection, H.265+ Security 16 Channel Surveillance Digital Video Recorder with 2TB Hard Drive, Easy Remote Access

The ANNKE 16CH 1080P Lite Hybrid 5-in-1 CCTV DVR is a security-grade digital video recorder that supports up to 16 pcs TVI, AHD, CVI, CVBS & extra 2 IP cameras. It comes with a 2 TB HDD, H.265+ coding, and customized motion detection alerts. You can access it remotely with all devices and browsers, and it is UL, CE, FCC, HDMI certified and secured by 128-bit AES, HTTPS, private protocols & conformant to GDPR.

What We Like
Supports up to 16 pcs TVI, AHD, CVI, CVBS & extra 2 IP cameras
Security-grade 2 TB HDD & H.265+ coding offer longer record time, saving up to 50% of storage space than H.265 systems
Customized motion detection alerts with specific motion zones
Remote access with all devices and browsers
UL, CE, FCC, HDMI certified and secured by 128-bit AES, HTTPS, private protocols & conformant to GDPR

REOLINK 8Ch NVR for Home Security Camera System

RLN8-410
REOLINK 8Ch NVR for Home Security Camera System Cover
REOLINK 4K 8CH Network Video Recorder for Home Security Camera System, Only Work with 16MP/12MP/4K/5MP/4MP HD Reolink IP Cameras PoE NVR, 24/7 Recording to Pre-Installed 2TB Hard Drive, RLN8-410

The REOLINK 8Ch NVR only works with Reolink PoE 4K/5MP/4MP cameras and allows live view and access to the cameras. It can integrate human/vehicle detection & playback from Reolink IP cams to build an intelligent system. The versatile apps and remote view allow local/remote access to your property. The NVR supports sound recording and 24x7 recording with 2TB hard drive, expandable to 6TB via eSATA port.

What We Like
Easy setup with PoE and plug & play
Integrates human/vehicle detection and playback
Versatile apps for free and remote view

ZOSI H.265+ 5MP Lite 8CH Hybrid 4-in-1 CCTV DVR

1AR-08ZN10-US1
8CH DVR+1TB
720P Wired System
ZOSI H.265+ 5MP Lite 8CH Hybrid 4-in-1 CCTV DVR Cover
ZOSI 3K Lite 8 Channel Hybrid 4 in 1 HD TVI CCTV DVR, AI Human/Vehicle Detection, Remote Access, 8CH 1080P H.265+ Surveillance Video Recorder with 1TB Hard Drive for Home Security Camera System

The ZOSI H.265+ 5MP Lite 8 Channel Hybrid 4-in-1 HD TVI CCTV DVR allows for flexible camera compatibility and customizable recording modes. With H.265 technology, the DVR maximizes storage space and provides high quality video even with low bit-rates. You can remotely access the system from anywhere with Wi-Fi/2G/3G/4G on a smart device or PC, and receive instant motion detection alerts. Additionally, you can customize privacy areas for each camera and download recording files for USB backup.

What We Like
Flexible camera compatibility
High quality video with low bit-rates
Customizable recording modes
#TOP 4

REOLINK 16 Channel NVR for Security Camera System

RLN16-410
5MP 16CH POE NVR
16CH NVR w/ 3TB HDD
REOLINK 16 Channel NVR for Security Camera System Cover
REOLINK 4K 16 Channel Network Video Recorder for Security Camera System, Only Work with 4K/5MP/4MP HD Reolink IP Cameras PoE NVR, 24/7 Recording to Pre-Installed 4TB Hard Drive, RLN16-410-4TB

The REOLINK 16 Channel Network Video Recorder is compatible with all Reolink PoE 4K/5MP/4MP cameras and Reolink WiFi cameras with DC power, allowing for easy setup with plug & play. Manage up to 16 Reolink cameras simultaneously with versatile apps and remote view, while the sound recording and 24x7 NVR recording ensures that you can record videos with sound continuously, then transmit HD recordings to Reolink PoE network video recorders. With the ability to integrate human/vehicle detection & playback from Reolink IP cams, this NVR has the capability to build an intelligent system.

What We Like
Easy setup with PoE and plug & play
Compatible with all Reolink PoE 4K/5MP/4MP cameras and Reolink WiFi cameras with DC power
Supports up to 16 cameras recording simultaneously to the built-in 4TB HDD
Integrates human/vehicle detection & playback from Reolink IP cams to build an intelligent system
Free versatile apps and remote view with rich features and functions
#TOP 5

ANNKE 8CH 5MP Lite DVR with SSD Internal Hard Drive

ASD810
Black
ANNKE 8CH 5MP Lite DVR with SSD Internal Hard Drive Cover
ANNKE 8CH 3K Lite Digital Video Recorder with 1TB Embedded SSD Solid State Hard Drive, 24/7 Video Recording with 8 Channel, AI Human/Vehicle Detection, H.265 5-in-1 Security DVR, Hardware Encryption

Introducing the ANNKE 8CH 5MP Lite DVR, a next-generation surveillance video recorder that offers a range of advanced features to enhance your home security. With its sustainable eDVR technology, this DVR consumes 45% less energy than traditional recorders, saving you money and contributing to a greener planet. The built-in eSSD technology ensures a longer service life of over 10 years, compared to the 4-5 year lifespan of regular HDDs. The H.265-based smart scene-adaptive bitrate control automatically adjusts the bitrate based on the complexity of the scene, ensuring a 2-week long recording without manual intervention. The palm-sized design makes it easy to install anywhere without affecting the aesthetics of your home. With support for 5MP cameras and advanced motion detection, the ANNKE 8CH 5MP Lite DVR is a reliable and convenient choice for your home security needs.

What We Like
Energy-efficient
Long service life
Smart bitrate control

ZOSI 5MP Lite 8 Channel CCTV DVR Recorder

1AR-08VMA10-US
8CH DVR
8CH DVR-1TB
ZOSI 5MP Lite 8 Channel CCTV DVR Recorder Cover
ZOSI H.265+ 5MP 3K Lite 8 Channel CCTV DVR Recorder, AI Human Vehicle Detection, Alert Push, Hybrid Capability 4-in-1(Analog/AHD/TVI/CVI) Full 1080p HD Surveillance DVR for Security Camera (1TB HDD)

ZOSI 5MP Lite 8 Channel CCTV DVR Recorder offers advanced H.265+ video compression technology, which provides larger storage space and better image quality. With Hybrid Capability 4-in-1, it supports 4 kinds of camera models. You can easily view and control your security system locally or remotely via ZOSI Client software on different devices. The motion detection feature can minimize false alerts, and customized recording modes with different cameras can meet your needs.

What We Like
Supports multiple camera models
Advanced H.265+ video compression technology
Customized motion detection to minimize false alerts
#TOP 7

ZOSI H.265+ 5MP Lite 8CH CCTV DVR Recorder

1AR-08WN00-US
(1080P)8CH DVR
ZOSI H.265+ 5MP Lite 8CH CCTV DVR Recorder Cover
ZOSI 3K Lite 8CH CCTV DVR Recorder with AI Human/Vehicle Detection, 8 Channel 1080p H.265+ Hybrid 4-in-1 Home Surveillance Wired DVR for HD-TVI/CVI/CVBS/AHD Analog Security Camera (No HDD)

ZOSI H.265+ 5MP Lite 8 Channel CCTV DVR Recorder is a 4-in-1 analog/AHD/TVI/CVI surveillance DVR that supports 720P/1080P/5MP security cameras system. With H.265 technology, it allows you to maximize storage space and enjoy ultra-long recording. You can also access real-time images on your phone with the ZOSI Smart app and receive smart notifications with image via email. Hard drive not included.

What We Like
Advanced H.265 technology for high-quality video even with low bit-rate
Compatible with 720P/1080P/5MP security cameras system
Mobile remote access to real-time images on your phone
Customizable motion detection and smart notifications with image via email
No cameras and hard drive included, but supports 3.5-inch SATA 500GB to 2TB hard drive
#TOP 8

TIGERSECU Super HD 8-Channel DVR

TS-2MP-302T08-2TB-H264
Black
TIGERSECU Super HD 8-Channel DVR Cover
TIGERSECU Super HD 1080P 8-Channel Hybrid 6-in-1 DVR Security Recorder with 2TB Hard Drive, for up to 5MP TVI/AHD/CVI/Analog/RS485 PTZ and IP Cameras (Cameras Not Included)

The TIGERSECU 8-Channel DVR offers a comprehensive security solution with its ability to work with various camera types, including up to 5MP HD models. You can easily access and manage your surveillance footage remotely through the TIGERSECU HD Viewer app, which eliminates the need for contracts or monthly fees. With a robust 2TB hard drive, enjoy over ten days of continuous recording at high resolution, while motion detection features help conserve storage by recording only when activity is detected. Additionally, its unique heat sink technology ensures a quieter operation without fan noise, enhancing your surveillance experience.

What We Like
Versatile camera compatibility
Remote access via app
10+ days of recording
Quiet operation
#TOP 9

TIGERSECU 16-Channel Hybrid DVR

TS-2MP-402T16-4TB
Black
TIGERSECU 16-Channel Hybrid DVR Cover
TIGERSECU Super HD 1080P 16-Channel Hybrid 6-in-1 DVR Security Recorder with 4TB Hard Drive, for up to 5MP TVI/AHD/CVI/Analog/RS485 PTZ and IP Cameras (Cameras Not Included)

This TIGERSECU 16-Channel Hybrid DVR is a versatile digital video recording system designed for use with a variety of security cameras. With support for 2MP (1080p) HD TVI, AHD, CVI, and analog cameras, this DVR offers flexibility and compatibility. It comes pre-installed with a 4TB surveillance hard drive, providing over 10 days of continuous local recording. The motion detection feature allows you to save storage space by only recording when motion is detected. Additionally, the DVR is equipped with unique heat sink fan technology, ensuring a quieter system and preventing overheating. With multiple monitor connections and audio recording capabilities, this DVR offers comprehensive surveillance options.

What We Like
Versatile compatibility
Large storage capacity
Motion detection for space-saving recording
#TOP 10

Xenocam 4CH 1080N DVR

A6704NS
Xenocam 4CH 1080N DVR Cover
Xenocam 4CH 1080N Hybrid 5-in-1 AHD DVR (1080P NVR+1080N AHD+960H Analog+TVI+CVI) Standalone DVR CCTV Surveillance Security System Video Recorder Motion Detection, Hard Drive not Included

The Xenocam 4CH DVR is a versatile surveillance solution that supports multiple camera types, allowing you to integrate your existing cameras for enhanced security. With its ability to record in high definition, you can enjoy clear and vibrant images, ensuring you don’t miss any crucial details. The user-friendly setup lets you monitor your property remotely via a smartphone or tablet, giving you peace of mind wherever you are. Additionally, the motion detection feature conserves storage by recording only when movement is detected, helping you save space while capturing important events.

What We Like
Supports multiple camera types
High definition image quality
Remote monitoring capability
Motion detection recording
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which hard disk is best for surveillance?

Best Hard Disks for CCTV Camera DVR (2022). Seagate SkyHawk AI Surveillance (Best DVR HDD)Seagate Ironwolf Pro Surveillance.WD Purple Surveillance Hard Drive.Toshiba N300 Surveillance Hard Drive.MaxDigitalData CCTV Drive.

2. How long will a 1TB hard drive record CCTV?

As shown in Table 1, just one continuous video stream at 20fps/704x480 image resolution can fill a 1TB drive in only 42 days with MPEG-4 compression.

3. What is the difference between a hard drive and a surveillance hard drive?

A Standard Hard Disk is engineered to read, write, and transfer data simultaneously. Whereas a Surveillance Hard Disk is engineered to perform write operation for the maximum part of its life, as the Hard Disks used in the surveillance system is used to write data 90% of the time and 10% for playback.

4. What is difference between NVR and DVR?

A DVR converts analog footage into a digital format, while an NVR typically only works with digital footage. DVR systems process data at the recorder, while NVR systems encode and process data at the camera before transmitting it to the recorder for storage and remote viewing.

Editor's Notes

During our hard drive surveillance video recorder research, we found 24 hard drive surveillance video recorder products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 28,491 customer reviews through our big data system to write the hard drive surveillance video recorders list. We found that most customers choose hard drive surveillance video recorders with an average price of $209.06.

The hard drive surveillance video recorders are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of hard drive surveillance video recorders, including ANNKE, REOLINK, ZOSI, TIGERSECU, XENOCAM. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 534 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

Written by
Mike Davis Avatar

Mike Davis is a professionally trained electrician with six years of working experience in the electronics industry. He has written an array of web and mobile-based articles for e-magazines and blogs. He loves trying out some novel and popular gadgets and his expertise is in the areas of electronics and computers which is built over many years of working and personal experiences.