19 February 2025

19 February 2025

A Comprehensive Guide to Home CCTV Systems: Blink, NVR & DVR Based on Our Installation Experience

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Introduction

Having a reliable home surveillance system is more important than ever. With various options available, it’s essential to choose the right CCTV system that fits your needs. At Cranfield IT Solutions, we specialize in providing expert consultancy as well as the installation of our recommended products to ensure you have the best system in place for your needs. In this blog, we’ll explore the different types of home CCTV systems, including popular options from Blink, NVR setups, and DVR, and weigh their pros and cons.

Blink Cameras or similar

Pros:

  • Wireless Setup: Blink cameras are incredibly easy to install. Simply charge, mount, install the app, and you’re good to go.
  • Affordable: These cameras are budget-friendly and don’t require monthly fees unless you opt for cloud storage.
  • Smart Integration: Works seamlessly with Alexa and other smart home devices.
  • Battery Life: Can last for months on a single charge.

Cons:

  • Limited Recording: Only records short clips when motion is detected.
  • Delay in Motion Detection: Can take a few seconds to start recording, potentially missing crucial moments and up to 30 seconds to re-arm after an initial recording.
  • Battery Dependency: Needs periodic recharging and this can be more often than you think in high traffic areas.
  • Lower Video Quality: Compared to wired systems, the video quality is not as high in particualr the infrared.

NVR (Network Video Recorder) Systems

Pros:

  • Higher Video Quality: Offers superior video quality and can support high-resolution cameras.
  • Reliable Connection: Uses wired connections, ensuring stable and uninterrupted recording.
  • Remote Access: Allows you to access footage from anywhere via the internet.
  • Scalability: Easily expandable by adding more cameras to the network.

Cons:

  • Complex Installation: Requires running cables and setting up a network, which can be time-consuming.
  • Higher Upfront Cost: Generally more expensive due to the advanced equipment and installation.
  • Network Dependence: Relies on your home network for performance. If your network goes down then your footage may not record.

DVR (Digital Video Recorder with Network capability) ( RECOMMENDED BY US )

Pros:

  • Continuous Recording: Records 24/7, capturing every moment without interruption.
  • Cost-Effective: Typically cheaper than NVR systems, making it a budget-friendly option.
  • Reliable Connection: Hard-wired setup ensures a stable connection.
  • No Network Needed: Does not rely on your home network for recording.
  • Remote Access: Allows you to access footage from anywhere via the internet.

Cons:

  • Complex Installation: Running cables from each camera to the DVR unit requires planning the cable routes and drilling holes to bring the cables from outside to inside.
  • Harder to Expand: Adding more cameras can be challenging depending on the units you buy.
  • Risk of cable damage: There is a risk of cable damage by environmental factors although in our experience this is a very rare occurrence if installed neatly.

How Cranfield IT Solutions Can Help

At Cranfield IT Solutions, we understand that choosing the right CCTV system can be overwhelming. That’s why we offer comprehensive consultancy services to help you make an informed decision. Based in Heathfield, Sussex, Matt your technology expert will assess your specific needs and recommend the best solution for your home. matt covers the whole of east sussex and will come to your property to assess the best solution for you.

Our Services Include:

  • Consultation: We’ll help you understand the differences between Blink and other simular models, NVR, and DVR systems and identify which one suits your requirements.
  • Supply: We provide high-quality CCTV systems, ensuring you get the best equipment for your investment.
  • Installation: Our skilled technicians will handle the entire installation process, ensuring your system is set up correctly and efficiently.
  • Support: We offer the tech support you need to ensure you understand how to use your new system.

Whether you need a simple and budget-friendly solution like Blink or a more advanced setup with NVR or DVR systems, Cranfield IT Solutions has got you covered.

Contact us today to get started on securing your home with the perfect CCTV system.