Swann 8 Channel 4K Ultra HD DVR Security System Review

Learn more about Swann 8 Channel Security System features and pricing, see what customers have to say, get ratings, and answers to common questions.

Updated on September 19th, 2023

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The Swann 8 Channel 4K Ultra HD DVR Security System allows you to connect up to eight security cameras both indoors and out for a comprehensive security solution. Swann offers a range of security camera systems, each with different functions.

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Swann 8 Channel Security Camera

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90 degree viewing angle.

130 ft. night vision.

Mobile viewing.

Pricing:

Camera Type

List Price

4 Camera 8 Channel 4K Ultra HD DVR Security System (2 TB HDD)

$399.99

Review:

Swann's 8 channel 4K Ultra HD DVR system offers a great set of features with cameras that are suitable for indoor and outdoor use and offer high image quality. Managing surveillance is made very easy and convenient by the mobile app and integrations with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. This system offers great value for money and is ideal for medium-sized premises, such as office buildings.

Pros:

Users can stream video and manage security via Chromecast, Google Home Hub, or devices with a screen, such as Echo Spot, Echo Show, or 4K Fire TV. The system also works with Google Assistant and Alexa and users can easily upload still images and footage to their Dropbox account.

The True Detect heat and motion detection feature triggers auto recording, push notifications, and sensor lights.

Cons:

The camera's color night vision capabilities are rather limited as they can only record color images up to 32 ft. in ambient lighting.

While Swann offers great analytics features for improved relevance, such as line crossing detection, these can only be used on one camera at a time.

Reputation:

The majority of Amazon customer reviews of the Swann 8 Channel 4k DVR systems are positive. Some users thought the software and night vision capabilities could be better.

At a Glance:

Type of recorder

DVR

Resolution

3840 x 2160 pixels

Night vision

Infrared night vision (130 ft.) and color night vision (32 ft.)

Field of View

90°

Storage

2 TB local storage

Remote viewing

Yes

Operating Temperatures

-22°F to 122°F

Suitable for

Indoor/Outdoor

Alerts/Notifications

Yes

Tech Support

24/7 Phone & Live Chat

Swann vs. Lorex
Swann vs. Lorex:

Between the Lorex 8 Channel 4K DVR system and Swann's 4K DVR system, Lorex is the more expensive option, but also offers a greater night vision range of 150 ft. compared to 130 ft. On all other accounts, the two systems are very similar, with only slight variances in their operating temperature range and field of view.

Swann vs. Night Owl
Swann vs. Night Owl:

Night Owl's Extreme HD 8 Channel DVR system with 5MP cameras comes with only 1 TB local storage, has no zoom functionality, and has a shorter night vision range than Swann's 8 Channel 4K DVR System, but also costs less. If you are on a budget Night Owl is a great option, but if you are more interested in advanced features, Swann is the better option.

Key Features:

Feature

Description

Image Resolution

3840 x 2160 pixels

View Field

90°

Minimum Operating Temperature

-22°F

Maximum Operating Temperature

122°F

Placement

Indoor/Outdoor

Storage

2 TB HDD

Number of Cameras Supported

8

Power

Cord

Video Outouts

VGA, HDMI

Night Vision

Yes

Night Vision Distance

130 ft.

Zoom

Yes

Remote Monitoring Capabilities

Yes

Motion Detection

Yes

Other Features

Smart Search, Intrusion Detection, Camera Tampering Detection, Line Crossing Detection

Buy Now

Swann 8 Channel Security Camera

Buy on Amazon

90 degree viewing angle.

130 ft. night vision.

Mobile viewing.

Swann Small Business Security Solutions:

Wireless Security.

Swann offers a selection of WiFi security cameras (including wire-free, battery-powered cameras) and systems. Wireless security solutions generally only offer image resolutions up to 1080p and are best suited for home security.

Security Systems.

Swann offers a range of 4, 8, and 16 channel DVR and NVR camera security systems, many of which work with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.

The 4 channel systems are a good option for single-family homes or small offices.

4 Channel System Features:

Type of Recorder

DVR or NVR

Resolution

1080p (2MP), 4K (8MP)

Number of Cameras Supported

Up to 4 cameras

Night Vision Distance

100 ft., 115 ft., 130 ft., 150 ft., 200 ft.

Storage

16 GB SD Card, 32 GB SD Card, or 1 TB HDD

Price Range

$199.99 - $479.99

The 8 channel systems are ideal for medium-sized properties and office buildings.

8 Channel System Features:

Type of Recorder

DVR or NVR

Resolution

1080p (2MP), 5MP, 4K (8MP)

Number of Cameras Supported

Up to 8 cameras

Night Vision Distance

100 ft., 115 ft., 130 ft., 150 ft., 200 ft.

Storage

1 TB HDD, 2 TB HDD

Price Range

$279.99 - $1,299.99

Swann's 16 channel DVR and NVR systems are suitable for large properties, including farms, warehouses, and factories.

16 Channel System Features:

Type of Recorder

DVR or NVR

Resolution

1080p (2MP), 5MP, 4K (8MP)

Number of Cameras Supported

Up to 16 cameras

Night Vision Distance

100 ft., 115 ft., 130 ft., 150 ft., 200 ft.

Storage

1 TB HDD, 2 TB HDD

Price Range

$579.99 - $2,399.99

Security Cameras.

Swann offers a wide range of security cameras, including dome, bullet, Wifi, IP, outdoor, and doorbell cameras, that are suitable for different uses, such as for indoor or outdoor use and intended as a visible deterrent or for discrete surveillance.

Security Camera Features:

Operating Temperatures

Within a range of -22°F to 131°F

Audio

None, one-way, 2-way

Image Resolution

1080p (2MP), 5MP, 4K (8MP)

Night Vision Distance

32 ft., 50 ft., 100 ft., 115 ft., 131 ft., 150 ft.

Viewing Angle

70°, 82°, 90°, 93°, 110°

Price Range

$17.99 - $399.99

Accessories.

Swann offers a selection of security and system accessories, including BNC extension cables for DVR backed systems (50 ft., 100 ft., and 200 ft.) and crime deterrence products, such as real looking dummy bullet and dome cameras, security stickers, and a yard stake warning sign.

Swann also offers a battery-operated home doorbell kit, a wireless, battery-operated driveway alert kit with motion detection, and a garage parking sensor. These items are, however, suited for residential homes rather than business premises.

FAQs:

Where can I buy the Swann DVR Security Camera System?

You can buy the Swann 8 Channel Security System directly through Swann or from Amazon.

How much does the Swann 8 Channel Security System cost?

The Swann Security Camera System's pricing ranges from $199.99 to $2,399.99, depending on the type of recorder, number of channels and number of cameras you need.

What features does the Swann 8 Channel Security System have?

  • 5MP Super HD video.
  • 4 x 5MP cameras included.
  • Night vision.
  • IP66-certified weatherproof.
  • HomeSafe View App.
  • 2TB hard drive.
  • Works with Google Assistant.
  • Expandable (up to 8 cameras).

Where can I find Swann 8 Channel Security System reviews?

The Swann DVR system has been reviewed on Amazon over 50 times and gets 3.4 out of 5.0 stars.

Are there any other Swann CCTV Recorder options?

Yes. You can get the Swann 8 Channel 1080p Full HD Security System, which comes with eight heat-sensing cameras. The Swann 8 Channel 1080p TVI DVR Security System has a slightly lower resolution compared to the Super HD Swann DVR system. The Swann 8 Channel 4K Ultra HD NVR system is currently unavailable.

What is the difference between the Swann 8 Channel NVR and the Swann 8 Channel DVR?

A network video recorder (NVR) records videos directly from the network and pairs with internet protocol (IP) cameras, while a digital video recorder (DVR) works with analog cameras.

Can the Swann HD security system operate in all conditions?

Yes. The Swann HD security system is waterproof and can operate in high or low temperatures.

Can I use my phone to access the Swann 8 Security Camera System?

Yes. You can install the free SwannView Plus app to watch live footage or play back recordings on your smartphone.