Please note, if you click and buy through links on our site, we may earn a small affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Learn More

An 8-camera security system can usually cover most homes and small businesses. They also offer more value for money. This is because they’re relatively more affordable and future-proof than high-end kits.

My top pick as the best 8-camera security system is the Reolink 4K 8-Camera / 16-Channel Security Camera System. It’s got an attractive price tag and fuss-free 4K Ultra HD cameras that are easy to set up. 

My runner-up pick is the Reolink 12MP 8-Camera / 16-Channel Security Camera System. It’s got 12MP turret cameras with advanced features. A couple of these include color night vision and vehicle detection. 

The Best 8-Camera Security Systems (2024)

Top Pick
RLK16-800D8
Awards
  • Highest rated camera listed with DC Power option
  • Highest rated camera listed with Ethernet data
  • Highest rated camera listed with Integrated Microphone
Data Type
IP
Resolution
4K / Ultra HD / 8MP: 3840x2160
Power Options
PoEDC Power
Night Vision Type
Infrared
IP Rating
IP67
Storage Options
NVR
Pros
  • Storage Options: NVR
  • High Resolution: 4K / Ultra HD / 8MP: 3840x2160
  • Power Options: PoE, DC Power
  • Integrated Microphone
  • Smart Motion Detection Features: Person Detection, Vehicle Detection
  • Night Vision Support: Infrared
Cons
  • Cannot automatically pan
  • No optical zoom
  • Does not have an integrated siren
  • No motorized tilt functionality
  • No smart home integrations
Runner Up
RLK16-1200D8-A
Awards
  • Only camera listed with 12MP: 4512x2512
  • Only camera listed with Animal Detection
  • Highest rated camera listed with Full Color (via Spotlight)
Data Type
IP
Resolution
12MP: 4512x2512
Power Options
PoEDC Power
Night Vision Type
InfraredFull Color (via Spotlight)
IP Rating
IP67
Storage Options
NVR

My second pick is the Turret-style cameras included in the same NVR model. However, the similarities end there, as this system provides more high-end features.

For instance, the turret cameras come with multiple intelligent features. This includes person, vehicle, and pet detection.

The turret cameras can support color night vision. Also, they’re IP67-rated for complete weatherproofing.

Overall, this is a better option for home security. This is because you have access to accurate alerts and smart features.

Pros
  • Power Options: PoE, DC Power
  • Night Vision Support: Infrared, Full Color (via Spotlight)
  • Smart Motion Detection Features: Person Detection, Vehicle Detection, Animal Detection
  • Integrated Microphone
  • Data Transmission: PoE, Ethernet
  • Storage Options: NVR
Cons
  • No motorized tilt functionality
  • No smart home integrations
  • No optical zoom
  • Does not have an integrated siren
  • Cannot automatically pan
MTIP4163-8-8106T-W
Awards
  • Only camera listed with FTP support
  • Highest rated camera listed with Integrated Alarm
  • Highest rated camera listed with Full Color (via Low Light Sensor / Tech)
Data Type
IP
Resolution
4K / Ultra HD / 8MP: 3840x2160
Power Options
PoEDC Power
Night Vision Type
InfraredFull Color (via Low Light Sensor / Tech)
IP Rating
IP67
Storage Options
microSDNVRNASFTP

The Montavue 4K 8-Camera is a great option for a high-performance surveillance solution. It’s competitively priced and comes equipped with all the features you need to ensure comprehensive security coverage. This includes 4K Ultra HD cameras, offering stunning video clarity with a resolution of 3840x2160 pixels.

The cameras are IP67-rated, providing complete protection against dust and the ability to withstand immersion in water up to 1 meter deep. This makes them perfect for outdoor installations, ensuring reliable performance in all weather conditions.

One standout feature is the integrated microphone, allowing for audio capture alongside high-resolution video. This adds an extra layer of detail to your security monitoring.

The cameras also come with smart motion detection features, including person detection and face detection, to enhance security by reducing false alerts and focusing on important activities. Additionally, the integrated siren/alarm can be triggered to deter intruders and alert you instantly.

Night vision capabilities are impressive, with support for both infrared and full-color night vision through advanced low-light sensor technology. This ensures clear and detailed images even in the darkest conditions.

In summary, the Montavue 4K 8-Camera is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a high-resolution, durable, and feature-rich security solution.

Pros
  • IP Rating: IP67
  • Night Vision Support: Infrared, Full Color (via Low Light Sensor / Tech)
  • Data Transmission: PoE, Ethernet
  • Power Options: PoE, DC Power
  • Storage Options: microSD, NVR, NAS, FTP
  • Smart Motion Detection Features: Person Detection, Face Detection
Cons
  • No optical zoom
  • No smart home integrations
  • Cannot automatically pan
  • No motorized tilt functionality
N46PCK+I91BL*8+1TB
Awards
  • Only camera listed with SATA support
  • Highest rated camera listed with HDD support
Data Type
IP
Resolution
4K / Ultra HD / 8MP: 3840x2160
Power Options
PoEDC Power
Night Vision Type
Infrared
IP Rating
IP67
Storage Options
microSDNVRNASSATAHDD

ANNKE’s H800 system includes a 16-channel NVR along with eight bullet-type cameras. This ANNKE NVR offers 24/7 recording and linking the cameras to the ANNKE vision app. On top of that, this NVR is capable of detecting humans, vehicles, and custom zone motion, after which it can instantly notify the user via the mobile app.

Before purchasing, you can select the amount of hard drive storage space you want pre-installed on the NVR. These include capacities ranging from 1TB to 12TB. Regardless, you can order the NVR without pre-installed storage (0TB option) if you already have an HDD.

The eight cameras that come with this bundle are sturdy IP67-rated bullet-type cameras. These devices can record footage in 4K Ultra-HD resolution thanks to 8MP cameras and have a dual IR LED setup for capturing infrared night vision footage with a maximum range of 100ft.

Also, the cameras can perform two-way communication, but you will need to connect an external speaker.

Pros
  • Storage Options: microSD, NVR, NAS, SATA, HDD
  • Power Options: PoE, DC Power
  • High Resolution: 4K / Ultra HD / 8MP: 3840x2160
  • IP Rating: IP67
  • Smart Motion Detection Features: Person Detection, Vehicle Detection
  • Night Vision Support: Infrared
Cons
  • Does not have an integrated siren
  • No smart home integrations
  • No optical zoom
  • Cannot automatically pan
  • No integrated microphone
  • No motorized tilt functionality
Resolution
5MP: 2595x1944
Power Options
DC Power
Night Vision Type
InfraredFull Color (via Low Light Sensor / Tech)
IP Rating
Weather-resistant
Storage Options
NVR

GW Security’s devices are NDAA-compliant, and this kit is no different. It performs really well for home security and small businesses.

The system provides you with 8 security cameras and an 8-channel NVR. The entire system supports PoE, and there's a 2TB hard drive Pre-installed.

These are decent specs. However, you don’t have room to add extra cameras. Also, you cannot leverage the full power of this 4K-ready NVR. This is mainly because the included cameras only record at 5MP (2592x1944).

The cameras are more than serviceable as they’re IP66-rated with a 100 ft maximum IR range.

Pros
  • Storage Options: NVR
  • Power Options: DC Power
  • Smart Motion Detection Features: Person Detection
  • High Resolution: 5MP: 2595x1944
  • Data Transmission: PoE, Ethernet
  • Night Vision Support: Infrared, Full Color (via Low Light Sensor / Tech)
Cons
  • Does not have an integrated siren
  • Cannot automatically pan
  • No optical zoom
  • Low IP Rating: Weather-resistant
  • No smart home integrations
BTN82L-88-B
Awards
  • Highest rated camera listed with Google Assistant support
Resolution
4K / Ultra HD / 8MP: 3840x2160
Power Options
PoEDC Power
Night Vision Type
InfraredFull Color (via Spotlight)
IP Rating
Weather-resistant
Storage Options
NVRHDD

Night Owl is another NDAA-compliant brand that focuses on deterrence.

So, in the case of this 8-camera, 8-channel system, there are several noteworthy features. These include a spotlight, two-way audio, sirens, and preset voice alerts.

The IP cameras come with human, face, and vehicle detection features. On top of that, the cameras record in 4K resolution, and the NVR includes a 2TB hard drive right out of the box.

The NVR supports Wi-Fi cameras as well. Therefore, you can expand with four additional Night Owl Wi-Fi security cameras.

Pros
  • Power Options: PoE, DC Power
  • Smart Motion Detection Features: Person Detection, Vehicle Detection, Face Detection
  • Integrated Siren / Alarm
  • Storage Options: NVR, HDD
  • Smart Integrations: Google Assistant
  • Integrated Microphone
Cons
  • Low IP Rating: Weather-resistant
  • Cannot automatically pan
  • No optical zoom
  • No motorized tilt functionality
8MP8CH4KWI
Awards
  • Only camera listed with Cloud support
  • Highest rated camera listed with Coax data
  • Highest rated camera listed with DVR support
Data Type
Analog
Resolution
4K / Ultra HD / 8MP: 3840x2160
Power Options
DC Power
Night Vision Type
Infrared
IP Rating
IP67
Storage Options
CloudDVRHDD

Hikvision has a decent analog-based 8-camera system to help you get set up fast. The cameras here can record in 4K resolution and the DVR supports a maximum storage space of 10TB.

The DVR is a highly versatile device here. It supports 16 channels and includes intelligent motion detection for humans and vehicles. On top of that, it supports perimeter protection features, and custom motion zones.

The analog security cameras are IP67-rated and have a 98ft maximum infrared range.

Pros
  • Data Transmission: Coax
  • Smart Motion Detection Features: Person Detection, Vehicle Detection
  • Power Options: DC Power
  • IP Rating: IP67
  • High Resolution: 4K / Ultra HD / 8MP: 3840x2160
  • Storage Options: Cloud, DVR, HDD
Cons
  • Does not have an integrated siren
  • No integrated microphone
  • No smart home integrations
  • No motorized tilt functionality
  • No optical zoom
  • Cannot automatically pan
SONVK-1689808
Awards
  • Only camera listed with Heat Map
  • Only camera listed with Alexa support
Data Type
IP
Resolution
4K / Ultra HD / 8MP: 3840x2160
Power Options
PoE
Night Vision Type
InfraredFull Color (via Spotlight)
IP Rating
IP66
Storage Options
NVRHDD

The 8-camera security bundle offered by Swann includes the NVR-8980 and eight NHD-900BE bullet-type spotlight cameras.

The NVR comes with a 2TB hard drive pre-installed. However, you can swap it out for a maximum storage capacity of 6TB. The NVR can easily carry out person, vehicle, face, and everyday object detection for multiple cameras simultaneously. (Everyday object detection includes packages, furniture, computers, TVs, etc.)

The cameras included in this bundle can record footage at 4K resolution. It has a spotlight that allows it to perform full-color night vision for a maximum range of 32ft.

Nonetheless, if you want more range during low-light, you can easily switch over to infrared, which has almost four times the range of full-color night vision (130ft).

The usual audio-based deterrence features such as two-way communication and sirens are also integrated into the camera itself; hence, you won’t have to worry about setting external devices for this. Also, the IP66 rating on these cameras will ensure they are protected against the elements.

Pros
  • Integrated Siren / Alarm
  • Power Options: PoE
  • Night Vision Support: Infrared, Full Color (via Spotlight)
  • Smart Integrations: Alexa, Google Assistant
  • High Resolution: 4K / Ultra HD / 8MP: 3840x2160
  • IP Rating: IP66
Cons
  • Cannot automatically pan
  • No motorized tilt functionality
  • No optical zoom
4K Ultra HD Wired 8 channel Security System with 8 cameras
Data Type
Analog
Resolution
4K / Ultra HD / 8MP: 3840x2160
Power Options
DC Power
Night Vision Type
Infrared
IP Rating
IP67
Storage Options
DVRHDD

Defender’s 8-channel system is a budget-friendly alternative. However, the entire system is analog-based, and you won’t have many of the smart features or interoperability aspects of other IP-based counterparts.

The DVR supports 4K recording of all eight channels simultaneously, and it comes with 2TB of storage space pre-installed. When configuring the NVR, you can set it up to record either motion-activated, scheduled, or continuous footage. (Defender says you can get 408 hours of 4K resolution footage with this much storage space.)

Unfortunately, the camera includes no support for intelligent motion detection features, despite having complete integration with the Defender 24-7 mobile app.

The eight bullet-type cameras included in this bundle can record 4K resolution footage. However, since they are analog devices, these cameras cannot record audio or perform other audio-based functions like two-way communication and sounding the alarms.

These Defender bullet-type cameras have an impressive IR LED system that can reach a maximum range of 100ft. Also, their enclosures are rated at IP67, rendering them as completely weatherproof.

Pros
  • Power Options: DC Power
  • Night Vision Support: Infrared
  • High Resolution: 4K / Ultra HD / 8MP: 3840x2160
  • Data Transmission: Coax
  • Storage Options: DVR, HDD
  • IP Rating: IP67
Cons
  • No optical zoom
  • No integrated microphone
  • Cannot automatically pan
  • No motorized tilt functionality
  • No smart / AI motion detection
  • No smart home integrations

Decision Factors when Choosing an 8-Camera Security System

Recorder Storage

Since an 8-camera security system will always come with an NVR/DVR, it’s best to consider the amount of storage space you are hoping to install into the security system. 4K footage can take up quite a lot of space, so if you want to record footage continuously and be able to store at least a week of footage from all eight cameras, we recommend going for at least 2TB. More is always better, and since these storage devices are hard drives, they aren’t as expensive as MicroSD cards or cloud services.

Recorder’s Maximum Channels

The number of channels that a recorder can support will determine how many security cameras you can connect to that device. Most NVRs/DVRs designed for 8-camera systems usually support 8 or 16 channels. We highly recommend getting a system with a 16-channel recorder since you will have room for another eight cameras.

Intelligent Motion Detection

High-end NVRs have better AI features such as human and vehicle detection. These AI features can drastically minimize false-positive motion alerts since the camera has a second opinion. (Other than relying on infrared-based motion sensors.) We highly recommend such a high-end recorder that can perform these functions. Also, if these NVRs detect humans and vehicles, they will likely include other low-level object detection functions such as line crossing and configurable motion zones. 

Camera’s Night Vision Capabilities

The future is full-color night vision, so if you aren’t getting a camera that can carry this out, you’ll be missing out on many essential details in your footage. Therefore, we always recommend cameras with full-color night vision. Also, these cameras will always include infrared as a second option; hence, you can always switch back if it gets too dark or if you need to cover more distance. 

Audio Features

Although microphones, speakers, and alarms aren’t included in almost every 8-channel camera system, it’s better to have these features for extra protection. Intruders will think twice about breaking in when there are sirens going off or when the cameras are warning them to back off.

What is an 8-Camera Security System?

An 8-camera security system, as the name suggests, comes with eight security cameras and a recorder. These usually include general-use cameras such as bullet-type or dome-type cameras that are inexpensive yet record high-quality footage at 4K resolution.

The cameras are all wired devices; hence, you will need to provide power through a wall outlet or by tapping into the building’s AC wiring. Also, you will have to maintain a wired data transmission medium such as an ethernet cable or BNC between the cameras and the recorder. Otherwise, the cameras won’t have any storage medium to transfer their footage.

Common Questions related to 8-Camera Security System

What’s the difference between 8-Camera and 8-Channel systems ?

In the context of security cameras and recorders, the “channel” represents how many streams (or cameras) the recorder device is capable of managing simultaneously. If an NVR/DVR spec sheet mentions that it’s an 8-channel 4K recorder, this means the device has enough processing power to store eight streams, each having 4K footage into its hard drives. Most 8-camera systems, including ones on this list, will have either an 8-channel or 16-channel recorder. If you get an 8-camera 4K system that includes a 16-channel NVR, you have the option to install an additional eight cameras into the system.

Do I need professional installers to set up an 8-camera system ?

You don’t need to hire professional installers to set up an 8-camera system if you understand the basics of your home’s electrical wiring and know how to install wall outlets and manage cables in and around your home. However, we recommend getting a professional installer if the camera system is urgent because they will be able to get an 8-channel system up and running before the day is done. 

Do 8-camera security systems have night vision ?

Yes, almost every camera system nowadays includes some form of infrared night vision. However, if you want the best low-light footage, we recommend getting an 8-camera system that supports full-color night vision or spotlights cameras. 

Do the cameras in 8-camera security systems record audio ?

Yes, most cameras used in these camera kits have microphones built-in to record audio. However, it can be illegal in some states to record audio, so we recommend disabling the microphones on your cameras if your state has laws against security cameras listening in. 

How much does an 8-camera security system cost ?

The prices vary a lot depending on the camera specs. Nonetheless, you are looking at a range of around $500-$2000 for a reliable 8-camera system. Despite supporting the same resolutions and having the same storage capacities, most high-end camera systems may include better app functionality and intelligent object detection features. Therefore, the cheapest option may not always be the most future-proof.

Can an 8-camera security system work with an app ?

Yes, almost every brand that offers 8-camera security systems has a desktop client or mobile application that allows users to control the security system. However, you need to provide internet access to the NVR. (Usually by plugging in an ethernet cable.)

Conclusion

 8-camera security systems are a well-balanced option for most homes and businesses. They usually come with 16-channel video recorders that help you expand if necessary. 

Also, these recorders extend the functionality of the cameras. This means intelligent features such as human detection and color night vision. 

My main recommendation for an 8-camera security system is the Reolink 4K 8-Camera / 16-Channel Security Camera System. It’s an affordable system that includes general-use 4K Ultra HD Turret cameras and a 4TB HDD. 

My second pick is the Reolink 12MP 8-Camera / 16-Channel Security Camera System. It’s got high-end 12MP cameras with advanced features such as human detection.

Leave a Comment