High quality hard drives, specifically tested for use with Hikvision, Dahua, Uniview, Hilook, Vivotek, Axis, Hanwha NVRs / DVRs.
1. Capacity Options
- WD Purple: Offers a wide range of capacities, from 1TB up to 22TB (depending on model and availability).
- Seagate SkyHawk: Offers capacities from 1TB to 20TB, with some models like SkyHawk AI designed specifically for AI-enhanced surveillance systems.
2. Optimised for Surveillance
- WD Purple: Uses AllFrame technology, which improves the recording accuracy by reducing frame loss and supports up to 64 HD cameras. It’s optimized for continuous 24/7 operation.
- Seagate SkyHawk: Includes ImagePerfect firmware to ensure smooth, continuous recording without frame drops and also supports up to 64 HD cameras.
3. Reliability and Durability
- WD Purple: Designed for long-term reliability, with a Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF) of up to 1 million hours and a 3-year warranty.
- Seagate SkyHawk: Has a similar MTBF rating of 1 million hours and a 3-year warranty for most models. SkyHawk AI models offer advanced durability with better support for AI workloads.
4. Workload Rating
- WD Purple: Designed for up to 180 TB/year workload, meaning it can handle high amounts of data writes from surveillance systems.
- Seagate SkyHawk: Designed for up to 180 TB/year workload, similar to WD Purple in this regard.
FAQs
What is a 2TB surveillance hard drive?
A 2TB surveillance hard drive is a hard drive made for CCTV systems that record all the time. It is designed for DVRs and NVRs, not general desktop use.
Can I use this 2TB HDD in a DVR or NVR?
Yes, this type of hard drive is designed for CCTV recorders such as DVRs and NVRs. It is commonly used in systems from brands like Hikvision and Dahua.
Is a surveillance hard drive different from a normal desktop hard drive?
Yes. A surveillance HDD is designed for 24/7 video recording. Desktop hard drives are usually made for lighter, less constant workloads. WD specifically says desktop drives are not built for the harsh always-on surveillance environment.
Is 2TB enough for my CCTV system?
Sometimes yes, sometimes no. It depends on the number of cameras, resolution, frame rate, compression and how many days of footage you want to keep. The best way to check is with the CCTV Storage Calculator.
How Much Storage Do You Need?
Use this quick guide to estimate how much storage you may need for 6MP and 8MP CCTV cameras using H.265 compression.
| Number of Cameras |
14 Days Recording |
30 Days Recording |
| 2 Cameras |
2TB – 4TB |
4TB – 6TB |
| 4 Cameras |
4TB – 6TB |
8TB – 10TB |
| 6 Cameras |
6TB – 8TB |
12TB – 16TB |
| 8 Cameras |
8TB – 10TB |
16TB+ |
These estimates assume 6MP to 8MP cameras recording at around 15fps using H.265 or H.265+. Actual storage time depends on bitrate, motion levels, scene activity, and recording settings.
Need a more accurate answer?
Use our CCTV Storage Calculator to estimate storage based on your exact camera count, resolution, frame rate and recording quality.
How many days will 2TB store?
There is no single answer. A small system with a few cameras may get a good amount of retention, while a larger high-resolution system may fill 2TB much faster. Your storage calculator is the best tool for an accurate estimate because it supports mixed camera groups and real-world settings.
Which is better, WD Purple or Seagate SkyHawk?
Both are well-known surveillance hard drive ranges. WD Purple is known for AllFrame technology and surveillance-focused design. Seagate SkyHawk is also made for always-on surveillance workloads. For most buyers, either is a solid choice.
Can this hard drive be used for Hikvision recorders?
Yes, surveillance hard drives like these are commonly used in Hikvision recorders, and your current product page states they are specifically tested for Hikvision and Dahua DVRs.
Can this hard drive be used for Dahua recorders?
Yes. Surveillance HDDs like WD Purple and Seagate SkyHawk are commonly used in Dahua recorders, and your current page says they are specifically tested for Dahua DVRs as well.
Can you install the hard drive before shipping?
If the hard drive is ordered with a recorder, Security Wholesalers currently states that additional drives can be installed and formatted prior to dispatch.
Will I lose footage if I use a normal hard drive?
Not always, but a normal desktop drive is not the right tool for a 24/7 CCTV recorder. A surveillance HDD is the safer and more suitable option for continuous recording. WD explicitly distinguishes surveillance use from normal desktop drive use.
Is this hard drive good for home CCTV?
Yes. A 2TB surveillance hard drive is a common choice for home security systems where the customer wants reliable recording without stepping up to a larger capacity.
Is this hard drive good for business CCTV?
Yes. It is suitable for business CCTV as well, especially for smaller systems or as a replacement drive. Larger systems with more cameras may need more storage.
