How to use this calculator
- Enter the number of cameras and average bitrate per camera.
- Set daily recording hours, retention and expected activity.
- Use the storage estimate to size the recorder, then add operational headroom.
Example
Eight 4 Mbps cameras recording continuously for 30 days need about 10.37 TB before filesystem overhead and reserve capacity.
How it works
Estimate CCTV storage in GB or TB by cameras, bitrate, recording hours, activity and retention days. Inputs are calculated directly in your browser and the result updates whenever a value changes.
Frequently asked questions
How much spare capacity should I allow?
A practical plan often adds 10–20% for filesystem overhead, bitrate variation and operational reserve.
Does H.265 always use half the storage of H.264?
Not always. Actual savings depend on scene complexity, resolution, frame rate and encoder settings. Use the measured average bitrate when available.