
Dahua model names tell you most of what you need: the series (entry, Lite, Pro, AI), the channel count, whether it has built-in PoE ports, the maximum resolution and the case size. Read them before comparing prices so you compare like with like.
Key takeaways
- The last digits before the letters are usually the channel count (…04, …08, …16).
- -P or -8P means built-in PoE ports.
- 4K / -4KS2 / -4KS3 indicates 4K support and H.265.
- HS means a compact 1U case.
- WizSense / AI models filter alerts to people and vehicles.
01Reading a Dahua model name
| Part | Example | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Series | NVR1… / NVR2… / NVR4… / NVR5… | Rising from entry level to more powerful Pro and AI models |
| Channels | NVR4108 | 8 camera channels |
| Case | HS | Compact 1U case |
| PoE | -8P | 8 built-in PoE ports |
| Resolution / codec | -4KS2 | 4K-capable, H.265 |
| AI | WizSense / -I | Human and vehicle detection |
02Features worth paying for
- Built-in PoE: one cable per camera, no separate switch
- Two disk bays: more recording days and room to grow
- AI search: find people or vehicles in recordings in seconds
- Enough incoming bandwidth for your cameras' resolution
See current Dahua NVR and DVR prices and compare with Hikvision recorders.
03Frequently asked questions
Which Dahua NVR is best for a home?
A compact 4 or 8 channel model with built-in PoE suits most homes.
What does 4KS2 mean on a Dahua NVR?
It indicates a 4K-capable model in that generation, supporting H.265 compression.
Do I need a PoE NVR?
It simplifies installation: each camera gets power and data over one network cable from the recorder.


