Easily Estimate Your NVR Storage Needs Estimate how much hard drive storage you will need for your NVR security camera system based on the number of cameras, resolution, frames per second, and days of recording. Estimates based on average bitrate. Motion recording reduces storage needs and extends hard drive life. Answer a few simple questions and receive your free, personalized NVR system recommendation and quote tailored to your needs. The calculator estimates storage based on the number of cameras, resolution, frames per second, recording days, and recording mode (continuous or motion-based). It uses average bitrate formulas to provide an approximate storage need in terabytes (TB). Motion recording mode records video only when motion is detected, significantly reducing storage requirements and extending hard drive lifespan compared to continuous recording. Yes, this calculator provides general storage estimates applicable to most NVR camera systems, but actual storage needs can vary depending on specific equipment and settings. Surveillance hard drives typically last 3-5 years depending on usage and environment. Using motion recording and quality drives can extend lifespan. When it comes to storing your valuable surveillance footage, not all hard drives are created equal. At CCTV Security Pros, we use premium surveillance-grade hard drives designed specifically for the rigorous demands of video recording systems. Our preferred choice, the Seagate Select Security Camera Hard Drives, delivers unmatched reliability, performance, and longevity. Unlike standard desktop drives, surveillance hard drives are engineered to handle continuous 24/7 video recording, multiple video streams, and frequent read/write operations without failure. Using high-quality drives reduces the risk of data loss and corrupted video files, ensuring your security footage is always available when you need it most. With capacities ranging from 2TB to 20TB, the Seagate Select series provides flexible storage options for any size security camera system. Investing in a dedicated surveillance hard drive means enhanced durability, quieter operation, and lower power consumption, all of which contribute to a more efficient and reliable NVR setup. Trust CCTV Security Pros to equip your security system with only the best hard drives, so your video evidence remains safe, clear, and accessible around the clock.NVR Hard Drive Storage Calculator
Use our NVR Hard Drive Storage Calculator to determine how much storage you’ll need based on the number of cameras, resolution, frame rate, and recording days. Whether you're recording 24/7 or using motion-only recording to save space, this tool gives you an instant estimate—no guesswork, no email required. Just enter your details to get started.NVR Hard Drive Storage Calculator
Recording Type
Storage Needed (TB)
Storage Savings
Hard Drive Life Impact
24/7 Continuous
--
0%
Higher wear (constant write)
Motion Recording
--
~70%
Lower wear (writes only on motion)
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NVR Storage Calculator FAQs
How is the required storage calculated?
What is motion recording mode?
Can I use this calculator for any NVR system?
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Why High-Quality Security Camera Hard Drives Matter.
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