8 Channel Security Camera Systems with NVR: 1920p HD & More to Consider

So you type "8 channel security camera system" in the search box and ready to buy the one that attracts your eyes in the search results? Chances are, you will get lost in the thousand 8 channel security camera system search results, and can’t decide the right one that could really solve your security needs with easy installation.

So here I gathered all the essentials you need to know about the 8 channel security camera systems, so that you can pick out the best 8-channel CCTV system quickly and easily. And more than that, you’ll learn how to install the 8 channel security camera system in steps without too many cables being run through the house.

What Does 8 Channel Security Camera Mean?

Searching for an 8 channel security camera system and ready to get 8 cameras in the package? Attention! 8 channel security camera system does NOT necessarily come with 8 cameras. Actually, the 8 channel CCTV system means it has 8 ports instead of 8 cameras. And therefore, you have flexible options to suit your various monitoring needs.

For example, Reolink's 8-channel kits often come with 4 cameras and 4 spare ports for future security upgrade.

So make sure you get the right 8 channel security camera system with the cameras you need. Most 8 channel security camera systems are only compatible with the cameras from the same manufacturer. Actually, that is the best solution to do the upgrade with the least trouble of software setup.

Best 8 Channel Camera System: Top Picks from Reolink

To save your time in reading up on the 8 channel CCTV camera systems, DVRs, NVRs and cables, here I list the best option that is good in every area and recommended by users worldwide as well as the tech media.

Reolink RLK8-410B4

This 8 channel PoE security camera system has always been a popular choice for home monitoring, thanks to its super easy installation and stability. If you are one of those who just don’t trust the wireless solution or you’re not a big fan of the wireless devices, then you really should take a look at this 8 channel system.

Key Fatures:

• Class-leading 5MP/4MP super HD security camera * 4
• 8 channel video recorder with 2TB HDD pre-installed
• Network cable for both power and data transmission
• HDMI cable to connect the system to your monitor
• USB mouse to operate the 8ch security camera system
• Other accessories you’ll need to install the system

So you don’t need to waste time finding the quality 8 channel security camera system cables or other accessories and worry that they would affect the picture quality. Instead, all is set with this complete 8 channel security camera system, and the only thing you need to do is to plug some cables with simple instructions.

Check the 5MP stunning videos from this kit shared by the Reolink user.

Reolink RLK8-800B4

If you are not satisfied with 4MP resolution and look for higher clarity, check Reolink's 4K security camera system, the RLK8-800B4. This PoE 8-channel boasts 4K 8MP resolution, delivering every vivid detail. The 8-channel NVR offers pre-installed 2TB local storage and future expansion for 8 cameras,

Key features:

• Power over Ethernet for easy installation
• Free person/vehicle detection
• Local storage with pre-installed HDD
• Clear infrared night vision
• Continuous recording

Reolink RLK12-800WB4

If you are worried about complex setup of PoE systems, consider plug-in WiFi 8 channel camera kit. Both cameras and NVR connect to Internet wirelessly, all you need to do is plug them into a reliable power source. This kit comes with eight 4K 8MP WiFi cameras and a 12-channel NVR. You can enjoy ultra clear image, smart motion detection, and more!

Here are the key features of this system:

• 2.4/5 GHz dual-band WiFi
• 4K 8MP Ultra HD
• Person/vehicle/animal detection
• 16-Channel NVR with 2TB HDD
• Active deterrence & instant alerts

How to Install 8 Channel Security Camera Systems?

Easy setup is a big advantage for 8 channel security camera systems.

And the PoE or wireless 8 channel system, like the models mentioned above, could save you the headache and money in installation. They are literally plug and play, and allows you to do the install yourself in simple steps without having to pay for the installation company.

Here I take the Reolink 8 channel PoE security camera system as an example to better detail the installation steps.

1. Plug in the power cables to the 8ch security camera system NVR.
2. Connect security cameras with the NVR via provided Ethernet cables.
3. Connect the NVR with a monitor via the provided HDMI or VGA cable, and then come to the NVR configurations to set the recording mode, motion detection areas, alarms, etc.
4. Connect the NVR with a router, and then run Reolink App, scan the QR code on the NVR to get the live view of all cameras whenever and wherever you want.

How to Choose the Best 8-Channel Camera Kit?

If you are considering an 8-channel camera kit, take the following factors into account:

PoE va. Wireless

There is no absolute answer to such questions as “8 channel wireless security camera system or PoE ones, which one is better”. That’s all about your monitoring situations actually. Both PoE and wireless 8 channel security camera system have their own advantages. Just choose the one that suits you better.

8 Channel PoE Security Camera System Pros & Cons

And the 8 channel PoE security camera system is popular mainly for the following reasons:

• Easy to install. You only need to run one cable for each camera, saving you a lot of wiring work compared with 8 channel DVR security camera system.
• Reliable. The hard-wired PoE 8 channel security camera system delivers stable signals.
• High resolution. Now most PoE 8 channel security camera systems could support 4MP and 5MP super HD cameras, which would be a challenge for the wireless ones.
• Long distance monitoring. With the PoE switch, you can simply extend the monitoring areas to your far away cabins, little pet’s house, front garden without any worry about the WiFi range.

8 Channel Wireless Security Camera Systems Pros & Cons

A wireless 8 channel security camera system is the kit that transmits data via network instead of cables. But note that it still needs a power cable to take care of the power supply. And here are why you may choose 8 channel wireless security camera systems:

• Easy and quick to install with power outlets nearby.
• No need to worry about the distance and running wires back to the NVR.
• More portable and flexible.

Here is a simple comparison chart to help you make a quick decision between wireless and PoE systems.

NVR vs. DVR

The 8 channel CCTV system NVR and DVR has a lot of differences in their recording quality, installation process, the ability to expand, etc.

Simply put, if you want easy installation, higher picture quality, flexible camera placement, and a futuristic security solution, the NVR 8 channel security camera system would be a better choice.

Actually, the 8 channel DVR security system with cameras (analog ones) has gradually become outdated with the IP cameras becoming the mainstream on the market.

To get a quick glimpse of the difference between the 8 channel security video surveillance DVR camera systems and NVR ones, refer to the blow comparison chart:

Resource: DVR vs NVR, Which One Is Better

Resolution: 1080p or 1440p or 4K?

Want a highest image quality 8 channel security camera system? Budget is very important in the discussion.

Generally, if you are budgeting about like $500 for an 8 channel security camera system, then the best you can get is probably a 5MP 8ch CCTV system like Reolink RLK8-410B4, with much better image quality than the 8 channel 1080p security camera systems.

Take a look at the 5MP video from Reolink 8 channel security camera systems:

Another thing to consider is whether you plan to go wireless or wired with the 8 channel CCTV system. Just as I put it before, the 8 channel wireless security camera system may only capable of handling 1080p videos currently without affecting your home network.

And the 8 channel PoE security camera system could deal with higher resolution recordings like 4MP, 5MP or even 4K videos.

FAQs

What is the difference between a 4 channel and 8 channel security system?

The main difference is the number of cameras you can connect. A 4-channel security system supports up to four cameras, while an 8-channel system can handle up to eight cameras.

How much does it cost to install an 8 camera system?

The cost to install an 8-camera video surveillance system is usually between $1,000 and $2,500. This includes the cameras, setup, and labor. If you have no ideal on how to install it, professional installation typically costs $80 to $200 per camera.

Could the 8 channel CCTV systems work without Internet?

Yes, they could record videos and motion events even when there is no Internet, but you could not receive push notifications, emails or get remote viewing in your smartphone. To understand all ins and outs of it and learn how to realize it, you may check our previous blog: 2 Solutions for Wireless Security Cameras without Internet Access.

How to prevent 8 channel CCTV system NVR/DVR from being stolen?

There are a lot of users worrying about the safety of the NVR and DVR. “What if the thieves steal my 8 channel security camera system DVR/NVR altogether?” One easy and practical solution to settle your minds is to find a safe place for the 8 channel security camera NVR or DVR, like the safe box, attic, inside the walls, in a closet or bookshelves. To discover more amazing tips to prevent the NVR or DVR from being stolen, click here.

Conclusion

An 8-channel security camera system is an excellent choice for those looking to enhance their property’s security with comprehensive coverage. With the ability to support up to eight cameras, it provides flexibility for monitoring larger areas or multiple entry points. Whether you're protecting a home, business, or both, an 8-channel system offers a robust solution that can be tailored to your specific needs. With the right setup, you’ll enjoy peace of mind knowing that your property is under constant surveillance.