The 9 Best 12-Channel Security Camera Systems (2024)

A 12-Channel Security System can cover multiple angles in a home or commercial area. They can be ideal for warehouses, retail stores, parking lots and even for home security.

My top pick for a 12-channel security camera system is the Lorex 4K 5-Camera / 12-Channel Security Camera System. It’s got 4K-resolution cameras with a host of smart features built-in.

My runner-up pick is the Lorex 4K 12-Camera / 16-Channel Security Camera System. It sports premium cameras that support people counting on improved color night vision.

The 9 Best 12-Channel Security Camera Systems (2024)

This 12-channel security system by Lorex is my top pick. This bundle includes a 2TB DVR, 4 outdoor bullet cameras and a single indoor camera.

Because of the DVR, this is an analog-based video recorder. However, you can integrate with the Lorex app, Alexa and Google Assistant.

The included IP67-rated outdoor cameras use an 8MP image sensor. It can record at a 4K resolution of 3840x2160. Also, these cameras come with a spotlight and siren for active deterrence.

The indoor Wi-Fi camera records at a lower resolution of 2560x1440. However, it supports two-way communication, person detection and 32 ft infrared range.

Overall, this is an ideal setup for home security. The only catch is that the analog-based system isn’t necessarily futureproof.

The Lorex 4K 12-Camera / 16-Channel Security Camera System is our runner up here. It's affordably priced and comes with everything you need to secure your property. This includes 4K Ultra HD IP cameras, providing stunning 3840x2160 resolution.

The cameras are IP67-rated, ensuring they are waterproof and dustproof, making them perfect for outdoor installation regardless of the weather. Enhanced security is provided with advanced smart motion detection features, including person and vehicle detection, reducing false alerts and ensuring you are notified of important events only.

With integrated microphones, these cameras also capture audio, adding an extra layer of security by recording sounds from the monitored area. Night vision is exceptional, thanks to infrared technology and full-color capability via low-light sensors, delivering clear images even in total darkness.

All video footage is stored on a Network Video Recorder (NVR), ensuring your data is securely saved and easily accessible. You can manage and view live or recorded footage through the Lorex app, compatible with both mobile devices and computers, keeping you connected to your security system at all times.

The Lorex 4K 4TB Wired NVR System is my top recommendation. It's competitively priced and comes equipped with advanced features that ensure comprehensive security coverage. This package includes 4K Ultra HD IP cameras, offering crystal clear resolution at 3840x2160.

For convenience, the cameras support both Power over Ethernet (PoE) and DC power options, allowing for flexible installation. The cameras are IP67-rated, providing robust protection against dust and water, making them ideal for outdoor use in any weather condition.

Nighttime security is enhanced with infrared night vision and full-color capability via advanced low-light sensors, ensuring clear and detailed footage even in complete darkness. All captured data is seamlessly transmitted through PoE and stored on a Network Video Recorder (NVR) for easy access and management.

With the Lorex app, you can effortlessly control and view live or recorded footage from your mobile device or computer, ensuring you're always connected to your security system.

GW security’s 16-channel system is a well-optimized bundle. This system is well-priced and leaves enough room for future expansion.

This kit includes 12 5MP security cameras and a 4TB NVR. For the video recorder, you can add an extra 4 channels and expand storage up to 20TB. It’s a good option for homeowners and businesses alike.

Also, installation is seamless, as all 16-channels of the NVR support PoE functionality. You don't have to mess around with separate PoE switches, unlike other brands.

The included cameras are turret-style with a max resolution of 2592×1944 at 15fps. The cameras are PoE-ready and come with an IP66-rated enclosure.

As such, they are relatively weather-resistant. However, I recommend setting them up in a shade and not exposing them directly to the elements.

The cameras can record audio and support human detection.

As an alternative, GW security includes a bullet-camera option with slightly advanced specs. The only similarity is the NVR with the 4TB HDD and 16 PoE channels.

The most obvious difference is the bullet-style cameras. These still record at 2592×1944 at slightly higher max framerate of 20fps.

The camera is IP67-rated and includes two-way communication right out of the box. Apart from that, it supports several AI object detection features.

As such, the camera can distinguish between humans and vehicles. On top of that, it can register faces and recognize each one.

It opens up a new realm of possibilities as you can monitor people in real-time. You can manage a database of faces and even teach the camera by uploading images to this database.

Montavue cameras are generally better at active deterrence and motion detection. As such, this heavy-duty system might be the option for you.

The system comes with a 16-channel PoE-ready NVR and 8-16 cameras. The NVR includes a 3TB hard drive with the option to expand to 20TB.

The turret cameras here can record at 4K resolution for a maximum framerate of 30fps. They are IP67-rated and come with a host of intelligent motion detection features.

The cameras support perimeter protection features such as tripwires and intrusion detection. On top of that, it can record audio and respond to customizable motion zones only.

Unfortunately, the cameras don’t support human and vehicle detection.

This system by Montavue is best for beefing up home security in a pinch. It includes a serviceable NVR and cameras with a spotlight and audio recording.

The cameras in this kit can only record at a maximum resolution of 2688×1520. However, this is good enough to understand the scene and record clear footage.

The camera also includes perimeter protection features along with human and vehicle detection.

The maximum pitch-black infrared distance is 98ft. It's more than enough for home security.

On top of that, it boasts color night vision for a minimum threshold of 0.006 lux, which is equally impressive.

This 20-channel system by Night Owl is attractively-priced for homeowners. Also, the add-on cameras are analog-based and offer several active deterrence features.

For instance, all 12-cameras come with a motion-activated spotlight. The spotlight can be remotely controlled and aids the camera with night vision.

The second feature is two-way communication. This option allows you to talk to whoever’s on the other end. It can be handy when scaring away possible intruders or receiving packages.

There are a few downsides. The cameras can only record at 1980x1080 resolution. Also, they don’t have a proper IP rating, and their analog-based system isn’t the most modern option.

That said, you can easily install this over your existing analog camera system.

LaView has a decent 12-camera system. It doesn’t win any awards but can get the job done for most homes and businesses.

The kit includes a 3TB pre-installed hard drive on a 16-channel NVR. All 16 channels are PoE-ready, and you can expand storage up to 12TB.

The cameras are pretty basic and easy to set up. They can record at a maximum resolution of 2688 × 1520 at 20fps max.

The cameras are IP67-rated and include 100ft infrared night vision range.

What’s unique about these cameras is the higher level of interoperability. They support ONVIF profiles; hence, they can work with third-party NVRs and systems.

Decision Factors for 12-Channel Security Camera Systems

Specs of the Included Cameras

12-channel systems typically include security cameras as well. However, when deciding between these, you must consider the security camera specs.

Ideally, ensure they record at a high enough resolution and support the features you need. Most cameras included in these systems are low-end devices with barely any features.

I recommend keeping an eye out for:

• Spotlight
• Two-way audio and sirens
• A proper IP rating (IP65 or above)
• High resolution (4K is better)
• Infrared range (98ft or more is ideal)

Storage Space of the Included Video Recorder

Whether that’s an NVR or analog-based DVR, always check the maximum storage space. Additionally, you want to look out for the hard drive that comes pre-installed.

In this scale, recorders will come with a 2-3TB hard drive. Make sure the brand provides this or you will have to purchase a hard drive separately.

Some recorders will allow external storage via USB and ESATA, check for these as well.

PoE Capacity of the NVR

Fortunately, most 12-channel NVRs can support all 12-channels with PoE. However, there might be certain brands that forgo this. Instead, they might include an additional PoE switch.

A PoE switch is always a welcome addition. However, you’ll have to rearrange the cables and make extra room for this device. Also, it can add up the cost of the security camera system.

Conclusion

A 12-channel camera system can be a significant investment. However, you need to consider the level of surveillance and pick a system that best fits your needs.

My top pick for a 12-channel system is the Lorex 4K 5-Camera / 12-Channel Security Camera System. It’s well-balanced for home security and comes with 4K-ready cameras.

My alternative pick is the Lorex 4K 12-Camera / 16-Channel Security Camera System. This includes specialized cameras with longer infrared range and better human detection features.