The hard disk size of a CCTV recorder decides how many days of footage you keep. Use the calculator below, then read how each setting affects the result.
CCTV storage calculator
Estimate for continuous recording. Actual usage depends on camera model, scene and settings.
How the calculation works
Storage per camera per day = bitrate (Mbps) × 3,600 seconds × recording hours ÷ 8 (to convert bits to bytes). Multiply by the number of cameras and the number of days you need to keep.
For example, one camera at 4 Mbps recording 24 hours uses about 43 GB a day. Sixteen such cameras kept for 30 days need about 21 TB.
What changes the bitrate
- Resolution: higher resolution needs a higher bitrate.
- Compression: H.265 usually needs much less storage than H.264 for similar quality.
- Scene activity: busy scenes and night noise increase bitrate.
- Frame rate: fewer frames per second lowers storage.
Ways to save storage
- Use H.265 or smart codecs where your cameras and recorder support them.
- Record on motion for low-activity areas.
- Use a lower frame rate where smooth motion is not needed.
These figures are estimates. Real usage depends on camera models and scenes. We size storage exactly during the design stage.
Our engineers can visit your site and recommend the right option. Call +91 97119 00801 or request a quote.
