Frigate NVR
lastmod 2026-02-27created 2026-02-271 edits
Frigate NVR is an open-source NVR specialized in AI-based real-time object detection. It is deployed as a Docker container, and its biggest strength is tight integration with Home Assistant. It provides efficient AI processing through dedicated hardware acceleration such as the Google Coral TPU.
Pricing details
- Frigate (base): completely free (MIT license)
- Frigate+: monthly subscription — provides custom AI models
- More accurate object detection/classification models
- Supports development of open-source Frigate
Key features
- Real-time AI object detection (people/vehicles/animals/packages, etc.)
- Hardware acceleration support for Google Coral TPU, OpenVINO, etc.
- Full Home Assistant integration (native add-on)
- Docker-based deployment (docker-compose)
- RTSP stream support
- Event-based recording (24/7 continuous recording also possible)
- Object tracking and zone configuration
- MQTT integration
- Substream use — separate streams for detection and recording to optimize resources
Pros
- Free + real-time AI object detection
- Ideal for the Home Assistant ecosystem
- Lightweight/efficient (minimal CPU load when using a Coral TPU)
- Active development community
- Docker-based — clean deployment/updates
Cons
- Requires technical setup (Docker, YAML configuration)
- Lacks enterprise features (alarm management, video wall, etc.)
- High dependency on Home Assistant
- Dedicated AI hardware (Coral TPU) recommended — extra cost
- Limited GUI-based management features
System requirements
- Linux host capable of running Docker
- Debian-based distribution recommended (easier hardware access)
- Google Coral TPU strongly recommended (USB or PCIe)
- For 16 cameras: at least 6th-gen i5+, preferably the latest generation
Best suited for
Home automation users, Home Assistant users, DIY AI object detection, technically capable users