Camera Storage Options Explained: Cloud, SD Cards, and NVRs

Cameras record footage, but where that footage goes determines how useful it is. If storage fails, the camera may as well be a prop. You need a setup that’s reliable, cost-efficient, and accessible when you actually need the footage.

If you haven’t set up your camera layout yet, start with the Camera Placement Guide. No storage system compensates for bad placement.

1. Cloud Storage: Convenient but Dependent on the Cloud

Cloud storage uploads your camera clips or continuous video to a remote server. It’s simple, automatic, and accessible from anywhere—but only if your internet holds up.

Pros

• Easy access from phone or computer.
• Footage is safe even if the camera is stolen.
• No hardware to maintain.

Cons

• Monthly subscription fees.
• Uploads fail if Wi-Fi drops or is weak.
• Slow upload speeds limit video quality.
• Clips may not upload in time during heavy activity.

Cloud works best for doorbell cams and small wireless systems—not full property coverage.

2. SD Card Storage: Local but Vulnerable

Many cameras include SD card slots. Footage stays in the camera itself with no subscription required. But if someone steals the camera, the footage goes with it.

Pros

• No subscription cost.
• Good for isolated cameras or backup recording.
• Easy to set up—insert card and go.

Cons

• Camera theft = lost footage.
• Cards wear out over time and need replacement.
• Limited storage capacity compared to NVR systems.
• Slow to review large amounts of footage.

SD storage is best as a secondary system or for low-risk areas—not your main security record.

3. NVR Storage (Network Video Recorder): The Most Reliable Option

NVRs store footage from wired PoE cameras on a dedicated hard drive. This is the professional-grade option and the only system that consistently holds up under real security demands.

Pros

• Continuous 24/7 recording.
• No internet required for recording.
• High bitrate and high-resolution footage.
• Large storage capacity (days to months).
• Footage stays onsite even if cameras are tampered with.

Cons

• Requires cable runs and a PoE switch.
• More upfront cost.
• NVR theft risk if not secured or hidden.

If you want the system you don’t have to babysit, NVR + PoE cameras is the top choice.

4. Hybrid Systems: The Best of Both Worlds

Many homeowners use hybrid setups—for example:

• NVR for main perimeter cameras.
• Cloud backups for doorbell or garage cams.
• SD cards as redundancy.

Hybrid systems reduce failure points and give you backup if one storage type fails.

5. How Much Storage Do You Actually Need?

Storage requirements depend on resolution, frame rate, and recording mode.

General Guidelines

• 1080p cameras: 8–12 GB per day per camera (continuous).
• 1440p / 2K: 12–20 GB per day per camera.
• 4K: 25–50 GB per day per camera.
• Motion-only setups: 50–80% less storage.

A 2–6 TB NVR drive usually covers 2–8 weeks for most homes.

6. Which Storage Option Should You Choose?

Short answer:

• NVR if you want reliability and full coverage.
• Cloud if you use wireless cameras and don’t mind subscriptions.
• SD cards only as backups or for low-risk areas.

Storage determines whether your cameras are just blinking lights or a real security tool. Pick the system that matches how much you actually care about keeping the footage.