Lorex Security Recorders (NVRs & DVRs)

The Heart of Your Security Camera System

A security recorder is the foundation of your entire surveillance setup. Whether you use wired IP (NVR) or analog coaxial (DVR) cameras, the recorder is responsible for storing your footage, managing your cameras, enabling smart features, and keeping your system running 24/7. With options ranging from cost-effective DVRs to advanced AI-powered NVRs, you can choose the recorder that fits your property, your cameras, and your future security needs.

Why Choose a Lorex Security Recorder

hard drive HDD icon

Local Recording / No Monthly Fees

Record to the built-in surveillance hard drive for secure, private video — with no monthly fees or required cloud subscriptions. 

high data capacity icon

High Capacity, Expandable Storage

Lorex recorders include a pre-installed surveillance-grade hard drive built for 24/7 use. You can upgrade to a larger drive, and dual-bay models let you add a second drive to expand storage or mirror the primary drive for extra reliability. 

Expand Icon

Supports Multiple Cameras

Security recorders are available in a range of channel sizes — from compact 8-channel models to larger 16- and 32-channel systems. 

High-Resolution Video Support

Lorex recorders support a range of maximum camera resolutions — including 1080p, 2K, 4K, and 4K+ — allowing you to choose the level of detail that best fits your property and security needs.

analytics Icon

Smart Detection & AI Analytics

Depending on the model, Lorex recorders support advanced AI capabilities such as person, vehicle, animal, and package detection, facial detection, Smart Search event filtering, and professional analytics like people counting and heat mapping.

smartphone icon

Remote Viewing, Anywhere

Lorex recorders work with the Lorex Connect, Lorex Classic, or Lorex Pro app (depending on model), allowing remote live view, playback, alerts, and device control from anywhere. 

wired cable icon

Wired Reliability, Zero Wi-Fi Interference

All recording happens over hardwired connections — ensuring smooth playback, stable performance, and uninterrupted operation even if your internet goes down.

Lorex Security Recorders are built for long-term reliability, expandable storage, crystal-clear recording, and seamless compatibility across a wide range of cameras. 

Types of Security Recorders

Security recorders work with different types of cameras. NVRs are designed for IP cameras, while DVRs work with analog cameras connected by coaxial cable. Both systems provide reliable recording, but they differ in installation, performance, and ideal use cases.

Network Video Recorder (NVR)

Works with IP security cameras connected using Ethernet cables and Power-over-Ethernet (PoE).

Best for: modern installations, higher resolutions, and advanced smart features.

  • Uses Ethernet (PoE) for power and data through a single cable
  • Supports highest-resolutions including 4K+ and real-time 4K @ 30fps (model dependant)
  • Ideal for new installations or modern system upgrades
  • Enables advanced AI features and flexible system expansion

Digital Video Recorders (DVR)

Works with analog security cameras connected using coaxial (RG59 Siamese) cabling.

Best for: cost-effective multi-camera coverage and upgrades to existing coax systems.

  • Uses RG59 Siamese coaxial cable for video and power
  • Supports HD analog cameras up to 4K resolution
  • Ideal for upgrading older DVR systems without rewiring
  • Great for long cable runs, detached buildings, garages, and retrofit installations

Lorex Recorder Series by App

Each Lorex recorder series is designed to work with a specific mobile app. The app you use determines how you view live video, receive alerts, and manage your system settings remotely.

Lorex Connect NVRs & DVRs

The Latest, Smartest, Most Modern Recorders

Designed for next-generation security cameras with advanced AI detection and intelligent video analytics.

KEY FEATURES
  • Supports advanced AI detection
  • Modern user interface
  • Easy setup with auto-detection
  • Best for new home and business installations

Build Your Own Security System

Create a system tailored to your property in just a few steps. Start by choosing a recorder, which determines how many cameras your system supports. From there, you’ll be guided through selecting compatible wired cameras, optional Wi-Fi devices (if supported), and accessories to complete your setup.

Choosing the Right Security Recorder for Your Property

Recorders are available in different channel sizes, which determine how many cameras your system can support. Choosing the right one ensures proper coverage and room to expand as your needs grow.

Small Home & Apartments

8-channel NVR or DVR — enough for doors, driveways, backyard, and key indoor areas.

Medium to Large Homes

16-channel NVR or DVR — ideal for more outdoor cameras, side yards, garages, and coverage expansion. 

Extra Large & Commercial Properties

32-channel NVRs — supports many cameras, higher resolution, and complex layouts.

Accessories for Smart Home Products

1. Surveillance Hard Drives

Upgrade or add drives to increase retention — many recorders support up to 20TB+ (please see product specifications for max storage). 

Shop Security Storage (HDD & MicroSD) >

2. PoE Switches (For NVRs)

Add more PoE ports or extend camera distance when your NVR’s built-in ports are full.

Shop PoE Switches >

3. Security Camera Cables (Cat5e, Cat6, RG59 BNC Coaxial)

Extend or replace camera wiring with reliable cabling for both IP and analog systems, available in pre-made lengths or bulk rolls for longer custom installations.

Shop Security Storage (HDD & MicroSD) >

4. Rack Mount Tray (For Compatible NVRs)

Install compatible Lorex NVRs into standard 19" server racks using a durable rack mount tray. Built from commercial-grade cold-rolled steel for strength and reliability in structured installations.

Shop Rack Mount Tray >

5. Coax-to-Ethernet Adapters

Upgrade existing coax wiring to support IP cameras by converting coaxial cable to Ethernet, helping you modernize your system without running new cables.

Shop Coax-to-Ethernet Adapters >

6. 4-in-1 Security Camera Power Adapter

Power multiple analog security cameras from a single outlet. Designed for DVR systems, this adapter simplifies installations by supplying power to up to four cameras at once.

Shop 4-1 Security Camera Power Adapter >

Frequently Asked Questions

Recorders: What is the difference between an NVR and a DVR?

NVRs (Network Video Recorders) work with IP cameras using Ethernet (PoE). They offer the higher technology, smarter AI features, and easier expansion. DVRs (Digital Video Recorders) work with analog cameras using RG59 coaxial cable. They’re great for long cable distances, existing coax installations, and budget-friendly coverage.

Recorders: Do Lorex security recorders require a subscription?

No. All Lorex recorders include local, private onboard storage with no monthly fees. Footage is stored on a surveillance-grade hard drive inside the recorder.

Recorders: Can I upgrade the hard drive in my recorder?

Yes. Lorex recorders use surveillance-grade hard drives that can be replaced or upgraded.
Some NVR models include dual hard-drive bays, allowing you to add a second drive for expanded storage or redundancy (drive mirroring). Always check your model’s maximum supported capacity.

Recorders: How many cameras can I connect to my recorder?

This depends on the recorder’s channel count, such as: 

  • 8-channel 
  • 16-channel 
  • 32-channel 

Each channel corresponds to one camera.  

 

 

Recorders: Can I download footage from my Lorex NVR or DVR?

Yes. Lorex recorders let you download video clips using a USB flash drive. Just insert the drive, choose the date and time of the event in the Playback menu, and export the selected recording.

Recorders: Can I add Wi-Fi cameras to my recorder?

Yes — but only with Fusion-capable recorders (NVRs or DVRs). Fusion allows you to pair select Lorex Wi-Fi cameras to open wireless channels. Benefits include:

  • 24/7 wired recording of Wi-Fi cameras directly to the NVR/DVR hard drive
  • Full backup if the Wi-Fi camera is stolen, damaged, or its microSD card fails
  • Managing both wired cameras and wireless cameras in one system

Always check your recorder’s wired vs. wireless channel breakdown (e.g., 16 wired + 4 Wi-Fi channels).

Recorders: Do NVRs power the cameras?

Yes — PoE NVRs provide both power and video through a single Ethernet cable. This eliminates the need for separate power adapters and makes installation cleaner and simpler.

Recorders: Do DVRs power the cameras?

Not directly. Analog cameras do not receive power from the DVR itself. Instead, power is delivered through the power side of the RG59 Siamese cable: 

  • The coax line carries video back to the DVR 
  • The power line connects to a power adapter. 
  • This power adapter is typically placed near the DVR, powering all connected cameras 

This means each camera still requires power, but power and video run together through a single Siamese cable, keeping installation simple and reducing the need for outlets near the camera. 

Recorders: What smart features are supported on Lorex recorders?

Supported features vary by recorder series, but may include: 

  • Person, vehicle, animal & package detection 
  • Smart Search / AI filtering 
  • Facial detection 
  • Smart Security Lighting controls (camera dependent) 
  • People Counting 
  • Heat Mapping 
  • Active deterrence controls (for supported cameras) 

Check the recorder's camera compatibility list for exact features. 

Recorders: Do security recorders need the internet?

No. Your recorder works fully offline for: 

  • Live view on a connected monitor 
  • Recording 
  • Playback 

Internet is only needed for app access and firmware updates. 

Recorders: How long can a recorder store video?

This depends on:

• Hard drive size
• Number of cameras
• Resolution
• Bitrate
• Recording mode (motion-only vs. continuous)

Upgrading to a larger drive significantly increases retention. You can also use our Hard Drive Storage Calculator to estimate how much storage you’ll need based on your system setup.

Recorders: Can I use my old cameras with a new recorder?

  • Analog DVRs: Often yes. Lorex DVRs are backward-compatible with many analog formats (CVBS, TVI, AHD, CVI). 
  • IP NVRs: Only cameras compatible with the recorder's supported series and resolution will work. Some series require specific NVR lines (e.g., Nocturnal → Elite NVR only). 

Always check the compatibility chart. 

Recorders: Can I reuse my existing wiring if I upgrade to a new recorder?

• Upgrading DVR → DVR: Yes. Existing RG59 coaxial cables can usually be reused with compatible analog cameras and recorders.

• Upgrading DVR → NVR: No. IP cameras require Ethernet (Cat5e or Cat6) cabling. However, coax-to-Ethernet adapters may allow you to reuse existing coax wiring in some installations.

• Upgrading NVR → NVR: Yes. Existing Ethernet cables (Cat5e, Cat6, or better) can typically be reused as long as the cabling is in good condition.

Recorders: Can I view my cameras remotely?

Yes. Use the correct Lorex app based on your recorder series: 

You can view live video, playback, alerts, and device settings anywhere you have internet. 

Recorders: How long can I run cameras from the recorder?

  • DVR (coax): Up to 300 ft on standard Siamese, ~800 ft with local power 
  • NVR (Ethernet): Up to 300 ft per run, farther using PoE switches or ePoE technology 

Recorders: How many users can access the recorder remotely?

Multiple users can access the system with their own accounts. Permissions vary by recorder series.

Popular Collections

Shop All
Wired Security
Smart Home Security
Security Camera Accessories
Shop By App

Frequently Asked Questions About Lorex

Why Is Lorex a Leader in Home and Business Security?

Founded in Markham, Ontario, Canada over 30 years ago, Lorex has grown into a globally trusted provider of security cameras and complete security systems for homes and businesses. We’re known for delivering high-quality, DIY-friendly solutions that combine advanced technology, reliability, and user-focused design. Learn more about our journey on our About Us page.

Lorex products are available through our official online store, authorized retail partners, and select Marketplace Resellers, making it easy to shop with confidence. Customers consistently recognize our performance and service—see what they’re saying on Lorex Reviews.

With headquarters in Canada and the United States, distribution centers across North America, online availability in the United Kingdom, and retail presence in Australia, we provide fast, reliable service to customers worldwide. If you need assistance, visit our Contact Us page for support.

We are also deeply committed to protecting our customers. Learn more about our Privacy Commitment and Security Commitment, which outline how we safeguard your data and system integrity. Plus, customers can earn benefits through our Lorex Rewards program when shopping directly with us.

What types of security products does Lorex sell?

Lorex offers a comprehensive range of DIY wired security cameras and systems, smart home wireless (Wi-Fi) cameras, and security camera accessories designed to meet
the unique needs of homes and businesses:

• IP Security Cameras & NVR Systems – Professional-grade systems with up
to 32 cameras, delivering highest video quality and smartest features.

• Wired Analog (DVR) Security Cameras & Systems – Cost-effective,
reliable 24/7 recording solutions ideal for upgrading existing coax-based
systems and expanding coverage across large properties.

• Smart Home Wireless (Wi-Fi) Security Cameras – Easy-to-install cameras that connect to your local Wi-Fi network for flexible placement and remote monitoring through the Lorex app -available in indoor, outdoor, floodlight, and battery-operated models.

• Security Recorders – High-capacity Security NVRs and Security DVRs designed to store and manage your video footage efficiently.

• Video Doorbell Cameras – Enhance your front door security with two-way talk, motion detection, and HD video recording

• Lightbulb Cameras - A perfect blend of smart security and smart lighting. Just screw in, connect to the app, and use the pan-tilt lens to get the ideal view.

• Smart Locks – Keyless convenience, remote access, and enhanced security for your doors.

Why do I need security cameras?

Investing in security cameras for your home or business offers several crucial benefits:

• Crime Deterrence – Visible security cameras can discourage potential intruders before they act.

• 24/7 Surveillance – Lorex security cameras provide high-quality recordings, including 4K video resolution and night vision, capturing every important detail.

• Remote Monitoring – Stay connected with your security system through Lorex mobile apps that allow real-time viewing from anywhere.

• Evidence Collection – In case of an incident, recorded footage can serve as vital proof for authorities.

• Peace of Mind – Enjoy enhanced home security and workplace safety with smart monitoring features like motion detection, two-way talk, and smart home integration.

Do Lorex security cameras support cloud storage?

Yes. Lorex offers optional Cloud Storage plans for select compatible Lorex Cloud Storage Security Cameras, providing an added layer of protection by securely storing recordings online. Cloud Storage helps keep footage safe in case of theft, damage, or local storage failure.

All plans include smart detection for people, vehicles, and animals, along with up to 60 days of event-based storage, while Premium plans offer up to 180 days of storage plus advanced features like AI Smart Search, AI Smart Alerts, and Professional Monitoring.

Learn more on our Lorex Cloud Security page.

How do I install Security Cameras?

Lorex security cameras are designed for straightforward DIY installation, whether you’re setting up a wired security camera system, a wireless (Wi-Fi) camera, or a battery-powered camera. Installation typically involves mounting the camera, connecting it to power, and completing setup through a Lorex app and/or recorder interface. For wired systems, installation also includes running cables between cameras and the recorder for a stable, reliable connection. Many customers complete installation in just a few simple steps using basic tools.

For a detailed step-by-step walkthrough, visit our How to Install Security Cameras guide.

If you prefer professional assistance, you can use our Find an Installer tool to locate certified installers in your area or explore InstallerNet options for convenient professional installation services.

What are Lorex’s different app ecosystems?

Lorex security products are organized into dedicated app ecosystems, with each app designed to support specific Lorex camera and recorder product lines. This helps ensure the best compatibility and user experience when viewing live video, managing settings, and accessing recordings.

Lorex Connect is our newest app ecosystem, built for the latest Lorex security products and advanced AI features. Lorex Classic (formerly the Lorex App) supports select legacy systems, including our Lorex Fusion product line. Lorex Pro is designed for professional-grade systems and is tailored for commercial and SMB security solutions.

To learn more about each ecosystem and find the right app for your system, visit our Lorex Mobile Apps page.

Are Lorex security cameras compatible with smart home devices?

Yes, many Lorex smart home wireless (Wi-Fi) security cameras, video doorbell cameras, and wired security systems are designed to integrate seamlessly with smart home devices, enhancing convenience and connectivity. Lorex cameras work with popular platforms such as:

• Amazon Alexa: Use voice commands to display live camera feeds on Alexa-enabled devices like Echo Show or Fire TV.
• Google Assistant: View your security camera’s footage on Google Nest Hub or Chromecast-enabled devices with simple voice prompts.

By connecting Lorex cameras to your smart home devices, you can centralize your home automation system and monitor your property more efficiently. Compatibility may vary by camera model, so be sure to check product specifications.

What Are Lorex’s Shipping, Return, and Warranty Policies?

When you buy directly from Lorex, you can shop with confidence, knowing your purchase is backed by reliable support and customer-first policies. We offer free shipping on orders over $100, a 30-day money-back guarantee, and a standard 1-year limited warranty. For more details, visit our Orders & Shipping, Payment & Returns, or Warranty policy pages.

For added protection, optional extended coverage plans are available through our trusted partner, Extend, providing extra peace of mind beyond the standard warranty.

Our customer support team is available to assist with pre-purchase questions, installation guidance, and technical support after your purchase. Whether you need help choosing the right system or troubleshooting your setup, we’re here to help—visit our Support page to get started.

Have more questions?

Visit our Frequently Asked Questions page for answers to common questions, or explore our Glossary to learn more about key security terms and features.