Cloud vs NVR vs SD Card for Security Camera Footage

If you are someone who has purchased Wi-Fi security camera like EZVIZ C6CN and thinking which type of storage is right for you then this article will help you. These Wi-Fi security cameras can work as a standalone device and are more towards “smart devices”. The total cost of installation of network-connected cameras is more than the traditional CCTV cameras and the big part in the planning of the storage.

SD Card for Security Camera Footage

SD cards can be installed on each security cameras and are designed to work as an on-site local backup. Some of the users prefer local storage on SD cards to have all their footage in their hands without the need of a third party. Also, this option is the cheapest option than cloud storage or NVR. However, those who use SD cards will either have to replace SD cards to save the footages or manually download the older clips. Also, older people prefer this method because this way is easy.

Local storage on SD card delivers a feel that there is control of their data. However, the security camera footage consumes a huge space and there is no meaning of having an SD card below 64GB SD capacity installed. The cost of a 256GB SD card is not the closest to cheap. The biggest risk of using this method alone is a loss of footage upon the theft of the camera. We suggest using a minimum of 32GB SD card in all the security cameras for on-site backup of footage of 2-3 days.

NVR for Security Camera Footage

NVR required when there are multiple Wi-Fi security cameras to work as a local “hub”. NVR has electronics that allows continuous playback of the live video stream on local monitors plus has a larger capacity hard disk. NVRs add many extra features for a quick review of the footage. It can be said that the NVRs are a kind of small PCs avoiding various problems of PC. When you have an NVR then using an SD card in all the security cameras is completely optional. The cost per GB space in the case of the hard disk is lower than that of the SD cards.

Cloud Storage for Security Camera Footage

In most cases, the manufacturers of these security cameras vendor-lock the option of choosing a cloud storage provider. So the customer needs to pay the manufacturer’s cloud storage every month. Using these cloud storage services are cheaper for multiple cameras for a short period such as 1-2 months. Those who use cloud storage can access and download their footage remotely from the app. The real difference with SD card is the extra security of the footage in the event of theft of the security camera itself. But the writing on the cloud storage invites a minor delay of a few seconds.

Conclusion

Honestly speaking, all of these three methods required in an ideal setup. Unfortunately, most peoples are short on budget but they need one or a couple of security cameras. For those who are on a restricted budget, I will suggest them to purchase NVR and save the footage on hard drives. Those who are even lesser budget, have to take the risk of using 32 or 64GB SD cards. They can use cloud storage when they are 24×7 not at home.