HiWatch DVR-204Q-K1 is a surveillance DVR for four-channel recording that accepts multiple analogue formats and up to two 4MP IP cameras. Long cable runs and an included 1TB HDD make installation and retention feel more secure. Does multi-format compatibility, H.265+ compression and long-distance transmission meet retrofit and small-site needs?
⚡ At a Glance
- • Recording Quality: Up to 4MP-lite recording for analogue inputs, plus support for two 4MP IP channels
- • Best for: Small businesses and homes needing mixed analogue and IP camera setups
- • Not ideal for: Large enterprise systems requiring more than four local channels
Multi-format analogue inputs accept HDTVI, HDCVI, AHD and CVBS signals. H.265+ encoding reduces storage use while a 1TB HDD handles local retention.
Flexible Camera Compatibility – thanks to self-adaptive HDTVI/HDCVI/AHD/CVBS input
Self-adaptive signal input recognises multiple analogue formats and negotiates the correct protocol automatically for each camera feed. Up to four analogue channels can be recorded alongside IP inputs.
Where older analogue cameras remain in place, mixing brands and formats is straightforward. Saves rewiring costs and simplifies gradual upgrades to IP cameras.
Efficient Storage Use – with H.265+ compression
H.265+ and H.265 main-stream compression reduce bitrate compared with H.264 standards, lowering storage consumption for recorded footage. Sub-streams for analogue cameras support H.265 and H.264 as appropriate.
Longer retention from the included 1TB HDD without frequent overwrite cycles. Useful for sites that need extended evidence retention without continuous off-site archiving.
Long-range Camera Placement – thanks to extended UTP and coaxial transmission support
Design supports long-distance transmission over UTP and coaxial cable, with stated ranges up to 800m for 1080p HDTVI and 1200m for 720p HDTVI signals. Signal integrity is maintained for typical surveillance cable installations.
Cameras can be sited far from the recorder without additional boosters for many installations. Ideal for larger properties or buildings where cable runs would otherwise be limiting.
✨ The 4 Key Reasons for HiWatch DVR-204Q-K1
- Multi-format input – Keep existing analogue cameras and mix brands seamlessly
- H.265+ compression – Reduce storage needs and extend retention times significantly
- Long-distance transmission – Place 1080p cameras up to 800m over coaxial cable
- Dual 4MP IP support – Add two 4MP IP cameras for wider coverage
📋 Technical Details at a Glance
- Category: Electronics (DVR Recorder)
- Model: DVR-204Q-K1
- Brand: HiWatch
- Channels: 4
- Supported Signal Inputs: HDTVI/HDCVI/AHD/CVBS
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does the recorder handle 4MP cameras?
A: Yes, analogue recording is supported up to a 4MP-lite resolution and up to two 4MP IP cameras can be connected.
Q: Can existing analogue cameras be reused?
A: Yes, self-adaptive HDTVI, HDCVI, AHD and CVBS inputs allow integration of many analogue cameras without format conversion.
Q: How far can cameras be sited from the recorder?
A: Long-distance transmission supports up to 800m for 1080p HDTVI and up to 1200m for 720p HDTVI over UTP or coaxial cable.
🏆 Our Verdict
Four-channel recording and multi-format analogue inputs suit small businesses and homes needing flexible, expandable surveillance. Efficient H.265+ compression paired with a preinstalled 1TB HDD reduces storage demands while allowing two 4MP IP cameras for broader coverage. Given the focus on compatibility and long-range cabling, the setup delivers strong long-term value for retrofit and mixed systems.
