IP vs Analog CCTV: Which Suits Your Building
If your building already has coaxial cable, the answer is not always to switch everything to IP. Here is how to choose based on conditions, not trends.
IP CCTV sends video as network data over network cable (UTP) and processes the image inside the camera. Analog CCTV (AHD, TVI, CVI) sends a video signal over coaxial cable to a DVR that processes it. For a new building, IP is almost always the more sensible choice. For an older building already wired with coax, analog often still wins on cost.
What are the main differences?
- Cabling: IP uses network cable and can carry power over PoE. Analog uses coax for video and usually separate power cable.
- Recorder: IP uses an NVR or server; analog uses a DVR. An analog recorder cannot take IP cameras unless it is a hybrid model.
- Resolution: IP cameras range from 2 MP up to dozens of MP. Modern analog also reaches 5 to 8 MP, with narrower choice.
- Smart features: person, vehicle or line-crossing detection is generally on IP cameras or NVRs. Analog is limited here.
- Scale: IP grows easily through network switches. Analog is limited by DVR channels and cable length.
When does IP fit better?
- New buildings or major renovations where cable is not yet pulled.
- Points far from the recorder room, since IP can use intermediate switches and fibre.
- You need AI analytics such as people counting, plate reading or PPE detection.
- You will add cameras in stages and want multi-branch monitoring from one app.
When does analog still make sense?
- Coax is already installed and in good condition, saving the cost of new cable.
- Simple needs: a few cameras, plain recording, no analytics.
- Cameras are close to the DVR and no major expansion is planned.
What about a staged approach?
Hybrid recorders accept analog and IP cameras together. This lets old cameras stay in service while new points use IP. Check how many IP channels the model supports and its total channel limit before buying.
Which is cheaper?
Analog equipment usually costs less per camera. But total cost depends on cabling: if new cable must be pulled, the gap narrows, and IP with PoE is often simpler because one cable carries data and power. Cost components are broken down in our office CCTV installation cost guide. Do not compare quotes without confirming that cable, recorder and hard-disk capacity are counted in each.
What are the cybersecurity risks of IP cameras?
IP cameras sit on the network, so treat them like other network devices: change default passwords, update firmware, isolate them on their own VLAN, and never expose camera ports directly to the internet. For remote access use a VPN or a trusted manufacturer cloud service.
Sentra installs and configures CCTV from survey to handover. See CCTV procurement and installation, the VIGI CCTV catalogue and CCTV Analytics.
Frequently asked questions
Is an IP camera's picture automatically sharper?
Not automatically. Image quality depends on sensor, lens, lighting and installation. High resolution at the wrong angle still gives poor results.
Can an analog DVR be used with IP cameras?
Generally no. You need a hybrid recorder or an NVR. Check the IP channel specification of the recorder model.
What is the maximum cable length for an IP camera?
UTP cable is generally used up to about 100 metres per segment. Beyond that you need an intermediate switch, an extender or fibre.
Will analog CCTV disappear from the market?
There is no certainty about that. What is clear is that smart-feature development now happens mostly on the IP side, so IP is the safer long-term investment.
Tell us about the process. We'll help map out the most proportionate approach.
