Are my choices okay, or can you recommend something better?

[Terminatez 0]

Hi, new to the forum. I too am losing my mind trying to find a system...

I use to do grunt IT work for about 5 years helping small business with their computer. I went a little into CCTV stuff by helping them set up software, using stuff like noip so that they can view it offsite etc...

I know how to wire them up and can manage on the software/hardware side of things.

 

So far, researching has gotten me no where and it seems like everything is cheap, glitchy, unreliable stuff.

I want something that I wire myself (cat5,6, w.e) with quality 720p or above. I want an 8CH system but can manage buying 4 cameras for the time being and upgrading later. Cameras will be outdoor in locations where direct rain will not constantly hit them, but occasional wind might blow rain towards it. For hard drive, I don't mind if it does or doesn't have it included, I have many 2tb-4tb reliable drives already that I can use.

 

So far, I have this in mind...but I don't know anything about CCTV brands.

https://www.lorextechnology.com/hd-ip-security-camera-system/hd-nvr-surveillance-system-with-4-full-1080p-hd-cameras/LNR84W-1-p

 

https://www.lorextechnology.com/site/LN10802-84W-1-p

 

I'm not sure what the difference between these 2 are..

 

I know for one, the cheaper priced one has slots for 2 drives. That's about it.

 

What would you guys recommended with a budget around <$700?

 

Is building a computer and buying cameras separately doable at <$700 with the same quality 720p+

 

 

 

Edit: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1327824-REG/hikvision_t7108q2ta_8_channel_2mp_ot_2_8mm.html

If that is going to lead me anywhere better than the other 2 in reliability, I can spit out a few more $

[mattaggie 0]

The first one you listed has 2mp cameras, the second has 3mp. And here is one that has 4MP cameras with color night vision

 

https://www.lorextechnology.com/hd-ip-security-camera-system/2k-resolution-4-channel-4-camera-home-security-system/HDIP84W-1-p

[GadgetAssistant 0]

Hello. The best video recorder in the world is useless unless you can navigate its user interface. If you have an opportunity to try each device's interface it may help you decide which is best.

[Terminatez 0]

I don't have the opportunity.

 

Now, for the 3 links above, is there anything equivalent that you would call more reliable? Or is 8ch with 4 cam system from lorex the best option at those prices?