Analog HD Camera vs IP HD Camera: Which One to Choose?

What Is An Analog HD Camera?

Before we discuss anything else, let’s first talk about the definitions and for this, let's start with the Analog HD camera. In simple terms, an analog HD camera is a CCTV camera which sends video signals to the digital video recorder (DVR) in an analog/traditional medium through a coaxial cable. The coaxial and DVR are part of analog cameras and these cameras have been the core of video surveillance ever since the concept of CCTV camera was first established. As for the HD in its name, it simply means that the camera can record high-definition video quality. While the specific type of HD quality depends from camera to camera, it starts with 720p. This form of CCTV camera has its own set of pros and cons. Some of these pros and cons include:

Pros

• Analog camera systems are known for their simplicity. They are easy to install, use, and understand, which makes these types of cameras highly accessible.
•  Analog HD cameras are also known for their reliability and long service life.
•  These cameras do not consume network bandwidth as the video footage is directly sent over the coaxial cable.

Cons

• Analog HD cameras often lack the advanced features of IP cameras (depending on the specific model)
•  There can be some difficulties in expanding the system made from analog CCTV cameras, often requiring large amounts of additional coaxial cable. 
•  Depending on the model, the access to remote viewing is limited without the added network-enabled DVR.

What’s An IP HD Camera?

IP HD Camera, as its name states, is a digital CCTV camera which uses Internet Protocol (IP) to send video footage and control signals to the viewing device and/or network video recorder (NVR) or a video storage device. Depending on the specifics of the divide, the storage device can simply be an SD/Micro SD card or even cloud storage. As with the case with analog HD cameras, the HD here stands for high definition which essentially means that this form of CCTV camera allows you to record video footage in 720p or more. This type of camera, too, has its own set of pros and cons. Some of these key pros and cons include:

Pros

•  Most of the models include advanced features such as motion detection, remote viewing, and video analytics. 
•  The systems with IP CCTV cameras are easily scalable, and you can easily add more units to the system. 
•  You can access and manage multiple CCTV cameras over the internet. 

 Cons

•  The initial cost of IP CCTV cameras is higher than that of analog cameras of the same/ similar specs.
•  These cameras require a strong network as HD videos consume a high bandwidth.
•  The learning curve for the operation of these cameras is a bit high, as those who are not familiar with CCTV software might find it hard to operate them initially. 
•  With this, you should have a fairly decent understanding of what analog HD CCTV cameras and IP HD CCTV cameras are. Now that we have got the definition cleared out of the way, let's discuss the differences.

Which is Better: Analog HD or IP HD Camera?

So which one is really better, between an analog HD camera and vs IP HD camera? Well, the specifics depend on the model and specs of the camera you are comparing. That said, we can make a few general differences based on the type itself. So, the following is an overview of the comparison regarding some of the key differences between analog HD cameras and IP HD cameras.

Image Quality Comparison

 One of the first aspects that we should compare when we want to put these types of cameras against each other is the image/video quality. Although both IP and analog cameras do offer HD video image quality, you have to note that there are differences even within the same type of video quality.

In general, IP HD cameras have better video quality when compared to analog cameras of the same specs. The key reason here is because of the way the signal transmits. analog cameras have somewhat of a limitation when it comes to image compression and decompression. This limitation results in somewhat of a grainy image, even with the HD camera. The issue here is not with the camera per se but with the way the signal transmits from the camera to the viewing or storing device.

Bandwidth and Storage Requirement

Another key factor in comparing when we put analog HD cameras vs IP HD cameras is the bandwidth and storage requirement. Both of these cameras have their own set of bandwidth and storage requirements. So, what are these requirements? Well analog HD cameras have less requirement of bandwidth as they do not operate based on the network. 

However, they do have high storage requirements depending on the settings in the DVR. However, unlike analog cameras, IP cameras have high bandwidth requirements since all of the HD videos are transmitted over the network. Although this high requirement is somewhat counteracted by strong compression systems, you still need a strong network infrastructure. The side benefit of having a strong compression technique is that it also lowers the storage needs along with the required bandwidth. The key point here is that IP cameras have a relatively low storage requirement because of the compression system but still have a higher bandwidth requirement when compared to analog HD cameras.

Coverage

 Besides bandwidth and storage, you also need to consider the coverage range of the cameras. This is where IP HD cameras really shine, primarily because of the advanced features built into them. 

 Analog cameras, even if they are HD, have a relatively simple design with not much in the name of advanced features. IP cameras, on the other hand, often come with advanced zoom, panoramic views, and Pan-Tilt-Zoom (PTZ) features, which allow them to cover more areas without needing to install additional cameras. These features are often lacking in analog cameras. So in this battle of analog HD cameras vs IP HD cameras regarding coverage, IP cameras win without a shred of doubt.

Intelligent Monitoring

Unlike what you might think from what we discussed previously, this is not as simple as you may think. This is because both analog and IP cameras support intelligent monitoring features as both of these types can come with features such as motion detection and zone monitoring. That said, IP HD cameras do have a bit of an edge regarding intelligent monitoring as they, in general, have more advanced features. These features that IP cameras have but analog cameras typically lack include facial recognition, line-crossing detection, and advanced integration with proactive AI monitoring.

Security

When a camera has advanced features, it naturally provides you with better security options. Given this context, you might think that in the battle between analog HD cameras vs IP HD cameras, the IP camera wins this round as well. But things are not as simple as it seems. Although analog HD cameras do indeed have fewer security options, it is extremely secure against hacking since most of the data is stored separately from the internet. Sure, it is vulnerable to physical tampering and signal interception, but for this to happen, one must enter the building, which, if it is secured properly, is a tough job on its own.

On the flip side, although IP HD cameras do indeed provide you with better security options, it is a bit more prone to hacking. Sure, you can set up firewalls and encryption systems to protect it against hacking, but it can be hacked nonetheless. On the good side, the risk of loss of data because of physical damage is less since you can store the data on cloud storage.

So, the key takeaway here is that analog cameras are resistant to hacking but prone to physical damage, while IP cameras are resistant to physical damage but prone to hacking. So this round of analog HD camera vs IP HD camera is a draw.

Transmission Distance For Cameras

Unlike previous aspects, the transmission distance for cameras is a bit tough to determine as, with proper setup, both types of cameras can have a wide range of transmission distances. But what if you do not use any form of amplified or advanced technologies to support them and only rely on base technology? 

 Well in this scenario, surprisingly, analog cameras have the upper hand as they can transmit signals over coaxial cables up to 500 meters. On the flip side, IP cameras can only transmit signals up to 100 meters. But if you use amplifiers for analog cables and fibre optics/extenders for IP cameras, both their range drastically. So with amplifiers, this round of analog HD camera vs IP HD camera is a draw. But without any form of mods, then this round goes to analog cameras.

Power Options: POE vs Analog Needs

 Now, regardless of which type of CCTV camera you have, they require power to function. Without power, you cannot make use of transmission distance or security. That said, this one is simple to determine. The winner of this round goes to an IP HD camera simply on the basis that it does not require a complex power supply unit. An IP HD camera simplifies the power needed with POE which is not just a cable which powers the device but also transmits data. 

 On the flip side, you need to install a separate power source or add a power cable along with coaxial cables to power the analog CCTV camera. This additional requirement means more hassle and more power, which ultimately leads to its loss in this round.

Installation And Scalability

Once you have the power figured out, the next step is installing the device and thinking about its scalability. Well the good news here is that this too is easy to determine. Analog HD cameras are simple devices, and because of this, they are easier to install. However, because of its simplicity, you need to work a bit if you want to scale them if you want to increase or decrease their surveillance range.

 On the flip side, IP HD cameras are a bit tough to install as you need to install the cameras, configure them with your network, and connect them with the software before being able to use them. But once you make the initial setup, you can simply click a few buttons, connect or remove the required camera to the power and scale the system as you want with ease.

Cost-Effective Surveillance

 Last but not least, the competition in analog HD cameras vs IP HD cameras is between cost effectiveness. Well, in this case, the IP camera is clearly the winner. Now, although analog HD cameras are more affordable for initial setup and are best for small installations, the more you need, the higher their maintenance cost. But on the flip side, IP cameras cost a bit more when compared to analog cameras for the initial instalment. But once you set up the cameras, they can last for years, require few cameras for the same coverage, and are easy to scale.

 This aspect essentially means that if you only need one or two cameras, then analog cameras are fine. But since you would require more than two cameras in general, even for a typical home, then IP cameras are the best for long term cost-effective solutions.

 Following is a brief summary of the difference in tabular form.

In the end, which one is better? Well, all depends on your needs. If you only need to use one or two cameras for your home and really don't care about advanced features, analog HD cameras are your go-to choice. They are simple to install and rather cheap, featuring fairly decent characteristics. If you need several cameras installed in your home with enhanced security features, then you can opt for IP HD cameras. Although a little bit less affordable and may be quite difficult to use and install, these cameras offer more advanced features that are easily scalable.

Product Pricing for HD Cameras: Analog vs IP at First Aid Nepal

Now that we have covered the basic gist regarding the difference between an analog HD camera and vs IP HD camera, you might be tempted to make a purchase. But which one should you purchase? To make your decision easier, we now present you with a table with the specifications and prices of some of the best IP and analog CCTV cameras.

IP HD Cameras: Price And Options

Product Name	Specification	Price
Dahua Camera
IPC-HDW2239TP-AS-LED	Max. Resolution: 1920 (H) × 1080 (V) ROM: 128 MB RAM: 128 MB Image Rotation: 0°/90°/180°/270° (Supports 90°/270° with 1080p resolution and lower) Built-in MIC: Yes Storage: FTP; Micro SD card (support max. 256 G); NAS; SFTP	Rs. 13320
2MP Lite IR Fixed-focal Bullet Network Camera	·      Max Resolution: 2MP (1920 × 1080) @25/30 fps RAM: Not specified ROM: Not specified Image Rotation: Supported (Rotation mode) Built-in MIC: Yes Storage: Max. 256 G micro SD card	Rs. 10350
DH-IPC-HFW2431T-ZAS-S2	Max Resolution: 4MP (2688 × 1520) @20 fps (max) RAM: Not specified ROM: Not specified Image Rotation: Supported (Rotation mode) Built-in MIC: Not mentioned Storage: Max. 256 GB Micro SD card	Rs. 22050
Hikvision
2 .0 MP ColorVu Lite Network Camera	Max Resolution: 2 MP Low Light Performance: Excellent low-light performance Compression Technology: Efficient H.265+ compression Weather Resistance: Water and dust resistant (IP67) Color Imaging: 24/7 colorful imaging Imaging Quality: High-quality imaging	Rs. 9790
2 MP Fixed Bullet Network Camera-HIK	Max Resolution: 2 MP (1920 × 1080) Low Light Performance: 0.01 lux (ultra-low light capability), 0 Lux with IR WDR Technology: 120 dB true WDR for clear imaging against strong backlight IR Distance: EXIR 2.0 with a 30 m IR range Weather Resistance: Water and dust resistant (IP67) Compression Technology: Efficient H.265+ compression for reduced storage usage	Rs.6800
2.0 Megapixel IP Camera	Image Sensor: 1/2.7" Progressive Scan CMOS Max Resolution: 1920x1080 Min. Illumination: Color: 0.01 Lux @(F2.0, AGC ON), B/W: 0 Lux with IR Shutter Time: 1/3 s to 1/100,000 s Angle Adjustment: Pan: 0° to 360°, Tilt: 0° to 75°, Rotate: 0° to 360° Power: 12 VDC ± 25%, max. 5 W, or PoE (802.3af, Class 3, 36 V to 57 V)	Rs. 6057.2
DS-2CE16D0T-ITPFS	Image Sensor: 2 MP CMOS Max Resolution: 1920 (H) × 1080 (V) Min. Illumination: 0.01 Lux @ (F2.0, AGC ON), 0 Lux with IR Shutter Time: PAL: 1/25 s to 1/50,000 s; NTSC: 1/30 s to 1/50,000 s Angle Adjustment: Pan: 0 to 360°, Tilt: 0 to 180°, Rotation: 0 to 360° Power Supply: 12 VDC ± 25%, Max. 2.7 W	Rs. 2964

 

 Analog HD Cameras: Price And Options

After discussing the specifications and cost of some of the best IP HD cameras, let's now discuss some of the best analog HD cameras. Along with the price, we shall also provide you with some of the key features of the said cameras.

Product Name	Specification	Price
Dahua Camera
HDCVI Dahua CCTV Camera	Max Resolution: 1080P (2MP) Frame Rate: Max. 30fps @ 1080P Lens Type: 3.6mm fixed lens (2.8mm, 6mm optional) IR Range: Max. 20m with Smart IR Power Supply: DC12V Transmission Distance: Up to 800m (1080P) via coaxial cable	Rs. 2890
DS-2CE16D0T-ITPFS	Max Resolution: 1920 (H) × 1080 (V) Min. Illumination: 0.01 Lux @ (F2.0, AGC ON), 0 Lux with IR IR Range: Up to 25m Power Supply: 12 VDC ± 25%, Max. 2.7 W Frame Rate: 1080P @30fps (TVI/AHD/CVI) Wide Dynamic Range (WDR): Digital WDR	Rs. 2964
DS-2CE16D0T-VFIR3F	Max Resolution: 2 MP IR Range: Up to 40 m for bright night imaging Weather Resistance: Water and dust resistant (IP66) Signal Output: One port for four switchable signals (TVI/AHD/CVI/CVBS) Camera Type: 2 MP manual varifocal bullet camera	Rs. 6493.25
DS-2CE16D0T-LPFS	Max Resolution: 2 MP, 1920×1080 Lens Type: 2.8 mm, 3.6 mm fixed focal lens IR Range: Up to 25 m for bright night imaging White Light Range: Up to 20 m for bright night imaging Audio: High-quality audio with built-in mic (audio over coaxial cable) Weather Resistance: Water and dust resistant (IP67)	Rs. 3206.25

 Conclusion

From the times of asking a neighbour to look out at your property and surroundings for you, security and surveillance have sure traveled a long distance into the modern world. Now, you can install CCTV cameras to keep an eye on your surroundings. That being said, there are numerous types of CCTV cameras that you can opt for. Among many types here, IP cameras and analogue cameras are some of the key ones. But which one should you buy in a battle between an analog HD camera and an IP HD camera? The most honest answer to this question is - it depends on your choice. If you only need one or two cameras for local surveillance, then analogue cameras are the ideal choice for you. But if you need multiple cameras with room for scalability, then you should gear towards IP cameras.

 In this blog, we discussed some of the key differences between analog HD cameras and IP HD cameras, along with their specs and price. We hope you found this helpful. If you seek further insights regarding various other forms of cameras and network solutions, do check out some of our other blogs. And if you want the best CCTV camera in Nepal, look no further than First Aid Nepal, the largest importer and distributor of CCTV cameras in Nepal. Thank you for reading till the end.

FAQ on Analog HD camera vs IP high definition camera

Which is better, an IP camera or an analog camera?

Generally speaking, IP cameras offer higher resolution and more features than analog cameras, which is why many modern applications of surveillance go for IP cameras.

What are the benefits of HD analog over IP?

HD Analog cameras offer high-resolution video over existing coaxial cables, thereby reducing costs because there will be no need to rewire everything.

What is the difference between an IP camera and an HD camera?

IP cameras transmit digital signals over a network, offering higher resolutions and advanced features, while AHD (Analog High Definition) cameras use analog signals over coaxial cables, providing a simpler and more cost-effective solution.

What is the difference between a POE camera and an IP camera?

The POE camera is an IP camera, getting both its power and data through a single Ethernet cable. It thus makes for quick installations without having too many different sources of power supplies.

Are analog cameras still a good choice for security?

While analog cameras are cheaper and easier to install, most of them have a lower resolution and fewer features compared with modern IP cameras, thus being less suitable for applications that require high security.