| Image Quality | Low resolution, degradation | High resolution: 720x480, 640x480 or 320x240 |
| Record mode | Continuous only without multiplexer, Event and sequential when connected with multiplexer | Continuous, Event, Sequential |
| Information search | Time consuming for viewing all tapings | Instant by any criteria such as location, time, date, event, transaction, etc. |
| Record while viewing | No! | Absolutely! |
| Recording medium | VCR tapes | Hard disk |
| Networking capability | No | Yes, any number of DVR's may be networked |
| Upgradeable | No | Easy with both software and/or hardware |
| Maintenance | Human error, costly | None required |