IP vs analogue CCTV cameras compared
Every CCTV system is either IP (network) or analogue (often called HD analogue, Turbo HD, HDCVI or AoC). Both record in high definition today. The difference is the cable, the recorder and what you can do with the images.
IP cameras
- Run on network cable (Cat5e or Cat6) and connect to an NVR or a network switch.
- One cable carries power and video using PoE, up to 100 m per run.
- Higher resolutions are available, from 4MP up to 12MP and beyond.
- Smarter analytics in the camera: person and vehicle detection, line crossing, face detection.
- Recorded on an NVR.
Analogue cameras
- Run on coax cable (RG59 shotgun cable, or Cat5e with baluns) and connect to a DVR or XVR.
- Ideal for upgrading an old system: reuse the existing coax and swap the cameras and recorder.
- Usually a lower price per camera.
- PoC (power over coax) cameras send power down the coax, so no separate power supply is needed.
- Recorded on a DVR or XVR.
Which to choose
| IP | Analogue | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | New installs, larger sites, best image detail | Upgrades over existing coax, tight budgets |
| Cable | Cat5e or Cat6 | Coax, or Cat5e with baluns |
| Power | PoE from the NVR or a switch | 12V supply, or PoC |
| Recorder | NVR | DVR or XVR |
| Resolution | Up to 12MP+ | Up to 8MP (4K) |
For a new build, IP is the default choice. If there is good coax already in the walls, analogue saves a lot of labour.