Choose a Hikvision DVR by counting the analogue cameras you need now and the positions you expect to add later. A 4-channel model has fewer BNC inputs than an 8- or 16-channel model; choosing more channels gives you room for more analogue camera connections, but you must still check recording performance and storage.
AUREY had available stock of the three models below when checked on 22 October 2026. The listed prices are for the recorders. Cameras, a monitor, hard drive, cabling and installation are not included unless the product page expressly states otherwise.
Compare the three recorder options
| Model | Analogue BNC inputs | Recorder price | Consider it when |
|---|---|---|---|
| DS-7104HGHI-M1 | 4 | R730 | You need up to four analogue camera connections |
| DS-7108HGHI-M1 | 8 | R950 | You need five to eight connections or room to expand a smaller installation |
| DS-7116HGHI-M1 | 16 | R1 650 | Your planned layout needs more than eight analogue camera positions |
Check the linked product pages for current prices and availability. The channel counts above refer to analogue BNC inputs; any additional IP-camera capacity depends on the exact recorder and configuration.
When a 4-channel DVR is enough
The DS-7104HGHI-M1 is a starting point for a small analogue installation. For example, you might plan cameras for a front entrance, driveway, rear access and indoor stock area. Four connections can cover that plan if the viewing angles and cable routes are suitable.
If you expect to add two more cameras later, compare an 8-channel recorder before committing to a unit with no spare analogue inputs.
When to move to eight channels
The DS-7108HGHI-M1 is worth comparing for a home or small business with more camera positions, or a four-camera installation with a clear expansion plan. Spare channels allow additional analogue cameras to be connected later within the recorder's supported specifications.
More connections do not improve the image from each camera by themselves. Lens choice, lighting, camera placement and recording settings still matter.
When sixteen channels are useful
The DS-7116HGHI-M1 is an option for a larger planned layout, such as multiple entrances, a shop floor, a stockroom and a surrounding yard. Draw the camera positions first so the channel count follows the areas that need coverage.
Plan the cable lengths, power distribution and recorder location along with the camera count. More recorded streams also affect the storage required for a given retention period.
Check recording resolution, not only input resolution
These HGHI-M1 listings specify recording up to 1080p Lite. A recorder accepting a 1080p camera signal does not automatically store full-resolution 1080p footage at the camera's maximum frame rate. Ask AUREY to check the exact recording modes if you have a specific evidence or detail requirement.
Confirm the full model suffix and hardware version, especially when upgrading an existing system. Similar names across a product family can have different capabilities.
Budget for storage and the rest of the installation
- Hard drive: confirm a compatible surveillance drive and the supported capacity for the exact recorder version.
- Retention: specify how many days of footage you want; camera count, bitrate and recording schedule affect storage use.
- Camera compatibility: match video format, resolution and any audio requirements.
- Local display: check the display connections and whether you need a monitor.
- Remote viewing: plan the recorder's network connection and app setup.
A simple way to choose
List the cameras needed today, add the positions you realistically plan next, and select a recorder with enough analogue inputs. Then verify recording quality, storage, power and network needs before placing the order.
Read our Hikvision camera buying guide to compare currently offered camera options. If you are upgrading, send AUREY the existing DVR model and camera model numbers so we can check the proposed combination.
Manufacturer references: DS-7108HGHI-M1 datasheet and DS-7116HGHI-M1 datasheet. Features and drive support should be checked against the hardware version supplied.
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