IP cameras and analog HD cameras (HD-TVI, AHD) differ in image, cabling, recorder and how easily the system grows. Here's when each one makes sense.
One of the first questions when ordering a video surveillance system is IP or analog cameras? Both are still in use today, but each has its own strengths.
How they work
- An IP camera is a digital device: it processes video itself and sends it over a network (ethernet) cable to the recorder — an NVR;
- An analog HD camera (HD-TVI, AHD, CVI) sends its signal over coaxial cable to a DVR, which converts it to digital.
Image
IP cameras offer higher resolutions and more “smart” features — such as person or vehicle detection and zone monitoring. For simple tasks, like a corridor or a car park, analog HD cameras often deliver a good-enough picture.
Cabling and power
- IP — a single network cable that also powers the camera via PoE. No separate adapter for every camera;
- Analog — coaxial cable for video and, in most cases, a separate power line.
Growing the system
With an IP system, adding a new camera often means adding one more point to the network. An analog DVR has a fixed number of inputs — once they’re full, you need to replace the recorder or add another one.
💡 Analog still makes sense if the building already has coaxial cabling from an old system: replacing old cameras with analog HD ones saves on cabling costs and work.
In short
| IP | Analog HD | |
|---|---|---|
| Recorder | NVR | DVR |
| Cable | Network (PoE) | Coaxial + power |
| Resolution & features | Wider choice | For simpler tasks |
| Expansion | Flexible | Limited by number of inputs |
On a new site where cabling is done from scratch, an IP system is often the better investment. We’ll choose the right option together after seeing the site.