Ultimate Network Video Recorder Comparison: Finding the Best NVR

Summary

In this video, the presenter evaluates eight popular NVR systems based on key criteria like setup ease, compatibility, and energy consumption. Blue Iris stands out for customization and flexibility, while Unify Protect offers a seamless user experience at a high cost. Reolink delivers great value with easy setup and low power usage, though its night performance could be better. Anki excels in compatibility but is less user-friendly. Other systems like Frigate and Lorex are deemed unreliable for full NVR solutions. For privacy, air-gapping or VPN setups are recommended. The video also highlights EcoFlow’s Delta Max power station as a top pick for portable power needs.

Takeaways

• 😀 Blue Iris scored the highest overall, with 78 points, offering excellent compatibility, customization, and the best mobile notifications.
• 😀 Blue Iris allows compatibility with nearly any security camera brand, offering flexibility in camera choices.
• 😀 Unifi Protect is a solid choice for users seeking an easy, professional-grade security system, though its cost is high and camera choices are limited.
• 😀 The RealLink NVR offers the best value, with an easy setup, automatic camera discovery, and low operating costs, but is limited to RealLink cameras.
• 😀 RealLink NVR excels in low power consumption, with an average of 53 watts, translating to an estimated $70 yearly operating cost.
• 😀 The Anki N96 PBD NVR stands out for its compatibility with a wide range of cameras, offering high flexibility but at a higher cost and setup complexity.
• 😀 Frigate is not a reliable full-featured security solution due to its steep learning curve, lack of built-in features, and inconsistent performance during testing.
• 😀 Synology Surveillance Station provides decent live view and playback but lacks advanced features like Blue Iris or Unifi Protect, making it a mid-range option.
• 😀 The Lorex NVR is functional but inferior to other systems like Anki due to poor mobile app functionality and limited flexibility.
• 😀 The Ring Alarm Pro base station is the least recommended option, with unreliable cloud recording and poor local recording functionality, making it an avoidable choice.

Q & A

Which NVR system scored the highest overall in the tests?

Blue Iris scored the highest overall with 78 points. It excelled in compatibility, customization, and mobile notifications.

What are Blue Iris's main advantages?

Blue Iris's main advantages include its extensive compatibility with nearly every security camera, excellent mobile notifications, fast alert viewing, and native support for free computer vision person detection.

What is the biggest drawback of the Blue Iris system?

The biggest drawback is its complicated setup, higher energy consumption (124 watts per day), and the fact that it's a Windows-only program, which can sometimes experience reliability issues.

Which NVR system would be recommended for users who prefer simplicity and ease of use?

UniFi Protect is recommended for users who want a high-quality, user-friendly experience without complex software setup. It offers a seamless, Apple-like experience but comes at a higher price and with limited camera options.

How much does a UniFi Protect system cost?

A robust UniFi Protect system, including the UNVR, switch, and G4 Pro cameras, can cost upwards of $4,650, making it a high-end but user-friendly option.

What is the best option for users seeking an easy-to-setup, low-cost NVR system?

The Reolink NVR is the best option for those seeking simplicity and value. It is easy to set up, has automatic camera discovery, and uses less power compared to other systems (53 watts per day).

What are the limitations of the Reolink NVR?

The Reolink NVR is limited by its compatibility, as it only works with Reolink cameras. Its low-light performance is also poor, with motion blur and smearing issues in night footage.

What makes the Anki NVR stand out among other systems?

The Anki NVR stands out due to its high camera compatibility, supporting cameras from various brands like Hikvision, Reolink, and Unifi. It also offers more control over camera settings and has a user-friendly mobile app for accessing recorded footage.

What are the drawbacks of the Anki NVR system?

The Anki NVR system can be more complicated to set up, has a higher power draw, and comes at a higher price point (around $1,949 for the tested configuration).

Why is Frigate not recommended as the main NVR system for security cameras?

Frigate is not recommended as the main NVR system due to its steep learning curve, difficult setup, unreliable performance (e.g., camera streams occasionally stop), and lack of built-in features like mobile access, notifications, and storage management.

What is the recommended method for securely accessing NVR footage remotely?

The most secure method is to use a VPN to access the NVR locally, ensuring encrypted communication. Alternatively, P2P systems are also secure and easy to use, but they depend on the manufacturer’s server. Port forwarding, however, is the least secure option and should be avoided.

What are the privacy concerns when using cloud-based NVR systems like Ring?

Cloud-based NVR systems like Ring pose privacy concerns due to the potential for third-party access to your footage. For enhanced privacy, it's recommended to either air-gap your system or use secure local access methods, avoiding reliance on cloud services.

How does the EcoFlow Delta Max 2000 power station enhance security camera system reliability?

The EcoFlow Delta Max 2000 can provide emergency backup power for security camera systems, including powering a Reolink system for over a day and a half, ensuring your cameras remain online during power outages.