The short answer
If you already have coax cable, modern analogue systems (AHD, HD-TVI or HD-CVI) can often reuse it for much sharper pictures. If you are wiring from scratch, IP cameras on network cable are usually the better long-term choice. Either way, plan power backup and remote viewing from the start.
Analogue HD cameras send video over coaxial cable to a DVR. IP cameras send video over network cable (or Wi-Fi) to an NVR, often powered through the same cable (PoE).
| Analogue HD (DVR) | IP (NVR) | |
|---|---|---|
| Cable | Coax, often already in older systems | Network cable (Cat5e or Cat6) |
| Power | Separate power supply per camera, or power over coax on some systems | PoE: one cable for data and power |
| Cable length | Often long runs are possible, depending on the standard and cable | About 100 m per run for standard network cable |
| Picture | Good, and improving | Usually the highest resolution and the most features |
| Cost | Often lower, especially if you reuse cable | Often higher, but more flexible |
| Remote viewing | Yes, through the recorder | Yes, with more options |
| Best for | Upgrading an older coax system | New installations and bigger systems |
If your house already has coax from an older analogue system, an installer can often test it and fit new analogue HD cameras and a new recorder without opening walls. Old or damaged cable can look fine and still fail, so test before you commit.
Higher resolution means more storage. Ask your installer to calculate storage for the number of cameras, the resolution and the days of footage you want. Remote viewing also uses your upload speed. See why you can’t view CCTV on your phone.
IP systems with PoE are easier to put on backup, because one switch powers every camera. Analogue systems can run on a 12V battery supply. Read CCTV and load shedding.
We install both. See our CCTV installations, including Sandton, Randburg, Midrand and Pretoria East.
No. IP is more flexible, but a good analogue HD system on existing coax can be excellent value.
Some recorders allow it. Ask your installer what suits your equipment.
Wired cameras are generally more reliable. Wi-Fi cameras suit places where cabling is impossible.
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