Analogue vs IP CCTV Cameras Explained

CCTV (Closed-Circuit Television) systems have become an essential part of modern security, protecting homes, businesses, warehouses, and public spaces across the UK. Whether deterring crime, monitoring activity, or providing valuable evidence, choosing the right CCTV system is crucial. The two main types available today are analogue CCTV cameras and IP (Internet Protocol) CCTV cameras.

Both technologies serve the same core purpose, but they operate very differently. Understanding their differences in quality, cost, installation, and functionality can help property owners make an informed decision.

Security specialists such as https://williamhale.co.uk/ regularly work with both systems, helping customers select solutions that match their specific needs, budget, and security level.

What Are Analogue CCTV Cameras?

Analogue CCTV cameras are the traditional form of video surveillance. They have been in use since the 1960s and remain widely installed across the UK today.

Analogue cameras capture video and send it via a coaxial cable to a recording device known as a Digital Video Recorder (DVR). The DVR converts the analogue signal into a digital format, allowing footage to be stored, reviewed, or exported.

How Analogue CCTV Works

The process follows these steps:

Camera captures video footage
Video signal travels through coaxial cable
DVR converts analogue signal into digital format
Footage is stored on a hard drive
User can view footage on a monitor or remotely (if enabled)

Analogue systems are known for their reliability and simplicity.

Advantages of Analogue CCTV

Analogue CCTV remains popular for several reasons:

Lower initial cost 💷
Simple installation
Reliable wired connection
Minimal network setup required
Lower risk of hacking compared to network devices

Analogue systems are especially suitable for:

Small businesses
Residential properties
Budget-conscious installations
Basic monitoring requirements

Limitations of Analogue CCTV

Despite its strengths, analogue CCTV has several limitations:

Lower image resolution compared to IP
Limited smart features
Less flexibility in scaling
Requires more cabling in larger systems
Limited remote access capabilities

However, modern analogue systems such as HD-TVI and HD-CVI have significantly improved image quality compared to older versions.

What Are IP CCTV Cameras?

IP CCTV cameras are modern digital cameras that transmit video data over a network. Instead of sending analogue signals to a DVR, IP cameras send digital video directly to a Network Video Recorder (NVR) or cloud storage.

Each IP camera has its own IP address, allowing it to communicate over a network just like a computer or smartphone.

How IP CCTV Works

The process is different from analogue systems:

Camera captures video digitally
Data is processed inside the camera
Video is transmitted via Ethernet cable or Wi-Fi
Footage is stored on an NVR or cloud
Users can access footage remotely via apps or browsers

IP cameras offer significantly more functionality.

Advantages of IP CCTV

IP CCTV systems provide numerous benefits:

Higher image quality 📷
Easier remote viewing
Advanced smart features
Easier scalability
Better integration with modern security systems
Intelligent analytics (motion detection, facial recognition)

These systems are ideal for:

Commercial buildings
Warehouses
Retail stores
Offices
High-security environments

Limitations of IP CCTV

IP systems also have some disadvantages:

Higher initial cost
More complex setup
Requires network infrastructure
Potential cybersecurity risks if improperly configured
Greater technical knowledge required

Despite this, IP systems are becoming the standard for modern installations.

Key Differences Between Analogue and IP CCTV

The table below summarises the main differences:

Feature	Analogue CCTV	IP CCTV
Signal Type	Analogue	Digital
Recorder	DVR	NVR
Image Quality	Moderate	High to Ultra HD
Cabling	Coaxial	Ethernet
Remote Access	Limited	Excellent
Installation Complexity	Simple	Moderate
Scalability	Limited	Highly scalable
Smart Features	Basic	Advanced
Cost	Lower	Higher
Cybersecurity	Lower risk	Requires proper protection

Image Quality Comparison

Image quality is one of the biggest differences between the two systems.

Analogue Resolution

Typical analogue camera resolutions include:

Type	Resolution
Standard analogue	960H
HD analogue	720p
Full HD analogue	1080p
Advanced analogue	4MP – 8MP

Modern analogue systems can produce excellent footage, but they are still limited compared to IP.

IP Camera Resolution

IP cameras offer significantly higher resolutions:

Type	Resolution
Basic IP	2MP (1080p)
Mid-range IP	4MP
High-end IP	8MP (4K)
Advanced IP	12MP and above

Higher resolution provides:

Clearer facial recognition
Better number plate identification
Improved zoom capability
More usable evidence

This makes IP systems ideal for professional security applications.

Cabling and Installation Differences

Installation requirements differ significantly.

Analogue Cabling

Analogue systems use coaxial cables:

RG59 cable most common
Separate power cable required
Direct connection to DVR

Advantages:

Reliable connection
No network configuration required

Disadvantages:

More cabling required
Less flexible layout

IP Cabling

IP cameras use Ethernet cables:

Cat5e or Cat6 cables
Power over Ethernet (PoE) allows single cable installation
Connect through network switches

Advantages:

Less cabling required
Easier to expand
More flexible placement

Disadvantages:

Requires network knowledge
May require switches and routers

Storage and Recording

Both systems store video differently.

Analogue Storage

Analogue cameras store footage on a DVR hard drive.

Typical capacity:

Hard Drive Size	Recording Time (4 cameras)
1TB	7–14 days
2TB	14–30 days
4TB	30–60 days
8TB	60–120 days

Storage depends on:

Resolution
Frame rate
Motion detection settings

IP Storage

IP systems use NVR storage or cloud storage.

Advantages include:

Greater storage flexibility
Easier expansion
Cloud backup options ☁️

Cloud storage may involve monthly fees, typically:

Storage Duration	Monthly Cost
7 days	£5–£10
30 days	£10–£25
90 days	£20–£50

Remote Access and Smart Features

IP cameras excel in remote access.

Analogue Remote Access

Analogue systems can offer remote viewing, but require:

DVR with network capability
Port forwarding
Manual setup

Features are usually basic.

IP Smart Features

IP cameras provide advanced features such as:

Mobile app viewing 📱
Motion alerts
Line crossing detection
Facial recognition
Object detection
Automatic notifications

These features improve security significantly.

Cost Comparison in the UK

Cost is often a deciding factor.

Typical Equipment Costs

System Type	Camera Cost (each)	Recorder Cost	Total (4 cameras)
Analogue	£25–£80	£100–£250	£200–£500
IP	£60–£200	£150–£400	£400–£1,000

Installation Costs

Professional installation in the UK typically costs:

Property Type	Analogue	IP
Small home	£200–£400	£300–£600
Medium home	£400–£700	£600–£1,000
Business	£700–£1,500	£1,000–£3,000

Costs vary depending on property size and complexity.

Maintenance and Reliability

Both systems are reliable when properly installed.

Analogue Reliability

Analogue systems offer:

Stable wired connections
Minimal software issues
Long lifespan

Common lifespan:

Cameras: 8–12 years
DVR: 5–8 years

IP System Reliability

IP systems are also reliable but depend on:

Network stability
Proper configuration
Firmware updates

Maintenance may include:

Software updates
Network troubleshooting
Security patches

Scalability Comparison

Scalability refers to how easily systems can expand.

Feature	Analogue	IP
Adding cameras	Limited by DVR ports	Easily expandable
Maximum cameras	Usually 4–16	Virtually unlimited
Infrastructure flexibility	Limited	Highly flexible
Integration	Limited	Easy integration

IP systems are far superior for expansion.

Cybersecurity Considerations

Cybersecurity is important for modern CCTV.

Analogue Security

Analogue systems are less vulnerable because:

No internet dependency
Closed circuit design
Limited remote access

IP Security

IP systems require proper protection:

Strong passwords
Secure networks
Regular updates
Firewall protection 🔐

When properly configured, IP systems are safe.

Which Is Better for Homes vs Businesses?

The best system depends on the application.

Property Type	Recommended System
Small homes	Analogue
Medium homes	Either
Large homes	IP
Small shops	Analogue or IP
Offices	IP
Warehouses	IP
Retail stores	IP
Industrial sites	IP

IP systems are preferred for larger or professional installations.

Example Cost Breakdown: Typical UK Home

Example installation costs for a semi-detached home:

Analogue System

Item	Cost
4 cameras	£160
DVR	£150
Cables	£80
Installation	£350
Total	£740

IP System

Item	Cost
4 cameras	£400
NVR	£250
Cables	£100
Installation	£500
Total	£1,250

IP costs more initially but offers better features.

Hybrid CCTV Systems

Hybrid systems combine analogue and IP cameras.

Benefits include:

Upgrade existing analogue systems
Gradual transition to IP
Cost savings
Increased flexibility

Hybrid DVRs support both camera types.

This makes upgrading easier without replacing everything.

Real-World Use Case Examples

Small Residential Property

Best choice: Analogue

Reasons:

Lower cost
Simple monitoring
Adequate image quality

Retail Shop

Best choice: IP

Reasons:

Clear customer identification
Remote viewing
Theft prevention

Warehouse

Best choice: IP

Reasons:

Large area coverage
High resolution
Scalable system

Office Building

Best choice: IP

Reasons:

Access control integration
Remote management
Advanced monitoring

Lifespan and Long-Term Value

Both systems offer good long-term value.

Feature	Analogue	IP
Lifespan	8–12 years	7–10 years
Upgrade potential	Limited	Excellent
Technology future	Older	Modern
Long-term flexibility	Low	High

IP systems offer better future-proofing.

Ease of Use

Analogue systems are easier for beginners.

IP systems offer more control but require basic technical knowledge.

Most modern IP systems now include user-friendly apps.

Power Consumption

Power usage differences are minimal.

System	Average Power
Analogue camera	3–5 watts
IP camera	4–7 watts

Total electricity cost per year is typically under £20 for small systems.

Installation Time Comparison

System	Installation Time
Analogue (4 cameras)	3–5 hours
IP (4 cameras)	4–8 hours

IP systems take longer due to network configuration.

Overall Comparison Summary

Category	Winner
Cost	Analogue
Image Quality	IP
Features	IP
Ease of installation	Analogue
Scalability	IP
Future-proofing	IP
Simplicity	Analogue
Professional use	IP

Both systems remain widely used across the UK, and the best choice depends on individual security needs, budget, and property size.

Network Bandwidth and Data Usage

Bandwidth refers to how much data is transmitted over a network. This is particularly important for IP CCTV systems, as they rely on network connectivity to send video.

Analogue cameras do not use network bandwidth in the same way. They transmit video directly to the DVR via coaxial cable, meaning they do not affect internet speed unless remote viewing is enabled.

IP cameras, however, continuously transmit digital data across a network. Higher resolution cameras require more bandwidth.

Typical Bandwidth Usage Per Camera

Camera Resolution	Average Bandwidth Usage
2MP (1080p)	2–4 Mbps
4MP	4–8 Mbps
8MP (4K)	8–16 Mbps
12MP	12–20 Mbps

For example, a system with four 4K cameras could use between 32 Mbps and 64 Mbps.

Ways to reduce bandwidth usage include:

Motion recording instead of continuous recording
Video compression such as H.265
Lower frame rate settings
Scheduled recording

Proper network planning ensures smooth performance without slowing internet speeds.

Night Vision and Low-Light Performance 🌙

Night surveillance is essential for effective security. Both analogue and IP cameras offer night vision, but performance differs.

Most CCTV cameras use infrared (IR) LEDs to illuminate areas in darkness. The camera switches automatically between day and night modes.

Analogue Night Vision

Analogue cameras offer reliable night performance, typically:

Range: 15–30 metres
Black and white night footage
Basic low-light sensitivity

These cameras are effective for standard residential security.

IP Night Vision

IP cameras often include more advanced night technology:

Longer range (30–60 metres)
Colour night vision on some models
Better low-light sensors
Improved clarity

Advanced IP cameras use technologies such as:

Starlight sensors
Low lux imaging
Smart infrared adjustment

This produces clearer images and better identification at night.

Night Vision Comparison Table

Feature	Analogue	IP
Night range	15–30m	30–60m
Image clarity	Good	Excellent
Colour night vision	Rare	Available
Low-light performance	Moderate	High

Night performance is a major advantage of modern IP systems.

Motion Detection and Alerts 🚨

Motion detection allows CCTV systems to record only when activity occurs. This reduces storage usage and improves efficiency.

Analogue Motion Detection

Analogue systems rely on the DVR to detect motion.

Features include:

Basic motion alerts
Recording triggered by movement
Reduced storage usage

Limitations include:

Less accurate detection
More false alerts
Limited customisation

IP Motion Detection

IP cameras include intelligent motion detection built into the camera itself.

Advanced features include:

Person detection
Vehicle detection
Animal filtering
Zone-based detection
Instant smartphone alerts

This improves accuracy and reduces false alarms.

Motion Detection Capability Comparison

Feature	Analogue	IP
Basic motion detection	Yes	Yes
Smart detection	No	Yes
Person detection	No	Yes
Custom zones	Limited	Advanced
Mobile alerts	Basic	Advanced

This makes IP cameras far more effective for proactive security.

Integration with Other Security Systems

Modern security systems often include multiple components working together.

These may include:

Alarm systems
Door access control
Intercom systems
Smart home automation

Analogue Integration

Analogue CCTV can integrate with basic alarm systems, but integration is limited.

Typical integrations include:

Alarm-triggered recording
Manual monitoring

However, analogue systems lack advanced automation capabilities.

IP Integration

IP CCTV integrates easily with modern security platforms.

Examples include:

Access control systems
Smart locks
Remote monitoring platforms
Smartphone apps
Cloud management systems

This allows full security control from a single interface.

Integration Comparison

Feature	Analogue	IP
Alarm integration	Basic	Advanced
Smart home integration	No	Yes
Remote control	Limited	Full
Automation	No	Yes

IP systems offer far greater flexibility.

Installation Disruption and Property Impact

Installation disruption is an important consideration for homeowners and businesses.

Analogue Installation Impact

Analogue systems often require:

Separate power cables
Coaxial cables to each camera
Larger cable bundles

This may involve:

Drilling
Wall access
Cable routing

Installation can be more invasive in larger properties.

IP Installation Impact

IP systems using Power over Ethernet require only one cable per camera.

Benefits include:

Cleaner installation
Less drilling required
Faster cable routing
Easier concealment

This results in a neater and more modern installation.

Installation Comparison

Factor	Analogue	IP
Cable quantity	More	Less
Installation neatness	Moderate	High
Installation speed	Moderate	Faster
Property disruption	Moderate	Lower

This makes IP systems easier to install in modern buildings.

Remote Monitoring for Business Owners

Remote monitoring is especially valuable for business owners managing multiple sites.

Analogue Remote Monitoring

Analogue systems can offer remote viewing through the DVR.

Capabilities include:

Viewing live footage
Playback recorded footage

Limitations include:

Slower performance
Limited functionality
Basic mobile apps

IP Remote Monitoring

IP systems provide superior remote access.

Features include:

Live viewing from anywhere 📱
Instant alerts
Multi-site monitoring
Cloud access
Secure login systems

This allows full control of security systems remotely.

Remote Access Comparison

Feature	Analogue	IP
Remote viewing	Yes	Yes
Mobile alerts	Limited	Full
Multi-site viewing	Difficult	Easy
Cloud access	Rare	Common

IP CCTV is ideal for remote management.

Upgrade and Replacement Flexibility

Over time, CCTV systems may need upgrades or replacements.

Analogue Upgrade Options

Analogue systems can be upgraded, but options are limited.

Typical upgrades include:

Higher resolution analogue cameras
Larger DVR hard drives

However, upgrading to IP usually requires major replacement.

IP Upgrade Options

IP systems offer much greater upgrade flexibility.

Options include:

Adding new cameras easily
Upgrading individual cameras
Expanding storage
Software updates

This allows gradual system improvement without full replacement.

Upgrade Comparison

Feature	Analogue	IP
Camera upgrades	Limited	Easy
Storage upgrades	Yes	Yes
System expansion	Limited	Easy
Future compatibility	Limited	Excellent

IP systems offer better long-term adaptability.

Insurance and Legal Considerations in the UK

CCTV systems can support insurance requirements and legal protection.

Many insurers recognise CCTV as a security improvement.

Insurance Benefits

Having CCTV installed may:

Reduce insurance premiums 💷
Improve claim approval chances
Provide valuable evidence
Reduce theft risk

Savings vary depending on insurer and property.

Legal Requirements in the UK

CCTV users must comply with UK regulations.

Key requirements include:

Respecting privacy laws
Avoiding filming neighbouring private property unnecessarily
Displaying CCTV warning signs
Complying with data protection laws

Businesses must comply with UK GDPR regulations.

Evidence Use

CCTV footage can be used as evidence in:

Criminal cases
Insurance claims
Workplace disputes
Civil disputes

Higher resolution footage improves usefulness.

IP cameras provide clearer evidence due to superior image quality.

Environmental Durability and Weather Resistance 🌧️

Outdoor CCTV cameras must withstand British weather conditions.

These include:

Rain
Wind
Snow
Cold temperatures

Both analogue and IP cameras are available in weatherproof designs.

Weather Ratings Explained

Cameras use IP ratings to indicate protection.

Rating	Protection Level
IP65	Rain resistant
IP66	Heavy rain resistant
IP67	Waterproof
IP68	Fully waterproof

IP66 is the most common rating for outdoor CCTV.

Analogue vs IP Durability

Durability depends more on camera quality than type.

Both offer:

Weatherproof housing
Vandal-resistant models
Long outdoor lifespan

However, higher-end IP cameras often include stronger build quality.

Typical Lifespan Outdoors

Camera Type	Outdoor Lifespan
Analogue	5–10 years
IP	5–10 years

Regular maintenance extends lifespan.