Lorex U-Series 8-Channel 2K+ Dome vs Lorex U-Series 8-Channel NVR 5: Spec Comparison

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When comparing the lorex u series 8 channel 2k dome vs u series 8 channel nvr 5, you will find two nearly identical security systems. Both use the same Lorex U-Series 8-channel NVR with a 2TB hard drive and PoE connectivity. They share the same 2K+ video resolution and color night vision capabilities. The main difference lies in the number of included cameras. One system comes with three dome cameras, while the other includes five. This changes the coverage area significantly for your property.

Included Cameras

3 dome cameras

5 dome cameras

NVR Dimensions

9.06 x 1.77 x 9.84 inches

7.57 x 1.91 x 12.2 inches

Model Number

AZN201A-3CN21ATW

AZN201A-5CN201ATW

Choose the first if

• You need coverage for a smaller property or fewer entry points
• You prefer a more compact NVR footprint for your installation space
• You plan to add additional cameras to the system later

Choose the second if

• You want to cover more areas of your property immediately
• You need to monitor more entrances or corners without extra purchases
• You prefer a wider field of view from the included hardware

Verdict

Choose the three-camera system if you have a smaller area to secure or want to keep initial hardware costs lower. The five-camera system is better for larger properties where you need more simultaneous coverage right away. Both systems offer the same recording quality and smart features.

U-Series Dome vs NVR 5 Specs

Included Camera Count

Edge: Lorex U-Series 8-Channel NVR with 5 2K+ Dome Cameras

The Lorex U-Series 8-Channel 2K+ Dome Camera System includes three dome cameras. The Lorex U-Series 8-Channel NVR with 5 2K+ Dome Cameras comes with five dome cameras. Both systems support up to eight compatible U-Series IP cameras via a single PoE cable each. This means you have room to add more units later if needed. The main difference is the starting coverage. Five cameras provide wider area monitoring right out of the box compared to three. You get more immediate surveillance points with the five-camera setup. The three-camera system offers less initial coverage but leaves more channel capacity for future expansion.

Video Resolution

Edge: Tie

Both systems record at 2K+ resolution for the camera feeds. The NVR unit itself supports 4K output. This means you can view the footage on a high-resolution monitor or TV in 4K, even though the cameras capture at 2K+. The image quality remains consistent across both packages. You get clear details for identifying faces or vehicles in both setups. The resolution capability does not change based on the number of included cameras. Both systems deliver the same level of clarity for your security needs. The viewing experience is identical regardless of whether you choose the three or five camera option.

Night Vision Capability

Edge: Tie

Both systems feature color night vision. This allows you to see details in low-light conditions without switching to black and white mode. The color night vision works effectively to maintain visibility during evening hours. You can identify clothing colors or vehicle paint in dim environments. This feature is standard across both the three-camera and five-camera packages. The performance does not vary between the two models. You get the same low-light clarity for monitoring your property after dark. The color night vision adds value by providing more informative footage than standard infrared modes.

Storage Capacity

Edge: Tie

Each system includes a pre-installed 2TB hard drive for local storage. You can expand the total storage capacity up to 10TB as needed. This allows for longer recording retention periods. The storage limits are identical for both the three-camera and five-camera setups. You do not lose any recording time capacity by choosing the model with more cameras. The NVR manages the storage space efficiently for both configurations. You have the same flexibility to upgrade the drive later if your retention needs grow. The local storage approach keeps your data under your control.

Smart AI Detection

Edge: Tie

Both systems use Smart AI detection to recognize faces and identify people and vehicles. This focuses alerts on key events rather than generic motion. Smart Search helps you filter recordings by motion type, color, numbers, and more. This saves time when reviewing footage. The AI features are built into the NVR, so they work with any compatible U-Series camera. You get the same intelligent filtering capabilities in both packages. The detection accuracy and search tools do not depend on the number of cameras. Both systems help you spend less time scrolling and more time focusing on relevant events.

Physical Dimensions

Edge: Lorex U-Series 8-Channel 2K+ Dome Camera System

The NVR units have different physical dimensions. The three-camera system NVR measures 9.06 inches wide, 1.77 inches high, and 9.84 inches long. The five-camera system NVR measures 7.57 inches wide, 1.91 inches high, and 12.2 inches long. The five-camera model is narrower but taller and longer. This affects how you place the recorder in your entertainment center or cabinet. The three-camera unit is wider but shorter and less deep. You should check your available space carefully. The size difference is noticeable, so plan your installation location accordingly for the specific model you choose.

Which Lorex U-Series System Fits You

Small property owners needing minimal coverage

Our pick: Lorex U-Series 8-Channel 2K+ Dome Camera System

You need fewer cameras for a compact area. This system includes three 2K+ dome cameras with color night vision. The 8-channel NVR allows future expansion, but the included three units suit smaller homes. You get the same AI detection and local 2TB storage without the extra hardware.

Larger properties requiring wider coverage

Our pick: Lorex U-Series 8-Channel NVR with 5 2K+ Dome Cameras

You need more cameras to cover a larger perimeter. This bundle includes five 2K+ dome cameras, giving you extra angles without buying separately. You retain the same 8-channel NVR, PoE connectivity, and 2TB storage. The additional cameras provide broader surveillance for bigger yards or multiple entry points.

Users prioritizing system quietness and design

Our pick: Lorex U-Series 8-Channel 2K+ Dome Camera System

You value a quiet, fanless NVR design that fits in living spaces. Both units share this feature, but this option has a slightly smaller recorder footprint. You still get smart AI alerts, color night vision, and expandable storage. The three cameras reduce cable clutter while maintaining reliable PoE performance.

Specifications side by side

Spec	Lorex U-Series 8-Channel 2K+ Dome Camera System	Lorex U-Series 8-Channel NVR with 5 2K+ Dome Cameras
Video Resolution	2K+	2K+
Camera Count	3	5
Channel Count	8CH	8CH
Storage Capacity	2TB	2TB
Connectivity	PoE	PoE
Recorder Type	NVR	NVR
Power Source	PoE	PoE
Night Vision Type	Color Night Vision	Color Night Vision
Resolution	4K	4K
Camera Style	Dome	Dome
Night Vision	Night Vision, Color Night Vision	Night Vision, Color Night Vision
Dimensions	9.84 × 9.06 × 1.77 inches	12.2 × 7.57 × 1.91 inches
Size	Small	Small
Color	White	White
Model	AZN201A-3CN21ATW	AZN201A-5CN201ATW

Frequently asked questions

Which Lorex system includes more cameras?

The Lorex U-Series 8-Channel NVR with 5 2K+ Dome Cameras includes five cameras. The Lorex U-Series 8-Channel 2K+ Dome Camera System comes with only three dome cameras. Both units support up to eight channels, allowing you to add more compatible U-Series IP cameras later if needed.

Do both systems use PoE power?

Yes, both systems use Power over Ethernet (PoE) for power. This means each camera connects directly to the NVR using a single cable for both data and electricity. You do not need separate power adapters for the cameras, which simplifies installation around your property.

What is the video resolution for these systems?

Both systems record at 4K resolution. The first system uses 2K+ dome cameras, while the second uses 2K+ dome cameras as well. The NVR handles the 4K output, ensuring you get high-definition footage from all connected cameras regardless of the specific camera sensor resolution.

Is night vision included on both models?

Yes, both systems feature standard night vision and color night vision. This allows you to see clear, full-color footage even in low-light conditions. You do not need to switch to black-and-white infrared mode when the sun goes down, providing better detail for identification.

How much local storage do these NVRs have?

Both the Lorex U-Series 8-Channel 2K+ Dome Camera System and the NVR with 5 cameras come with a 2TB HDD. This internal hard drive stores your recorded video locally. You can manage and view this footage directly from the NVR without relying on cloud subscriptions.

Are these systems expandable?

Yes, both systems are based on an 8-channel NVR. This means you can connect up to eight compatible U-Series IP cameras to each unit. If you start with the three-camera or five-camera setup, you can purchase additional cameras later to cover more areas of your home.

Do these cameras work indoors or outdoors?

The Lorex U-Series 8-Channel 2K+ Dome Camera System is best for quiet indoor monitoring. The NVR with 5 cameras is a solid choice for general PoE setups. Both use dome-style cameras, which are typically designed for discreet surveillance in various environments, including indoor spaces.

See also

• lorex u series 8 channel 2k dome vs u series 8 channel 4k nvr
• lorex u series 8 channel 4k nvr vs u series 8 channel nvr 5
• lorex u series 8 channel nvr 5 review
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