Home The Best Security Camera Without Subscription in 2022
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A security camera is a must-have if you want to keep an eye on your house and yard at all times. Some consumers, however, find this option inconvenient, as most outdoor security cameras require a monthly cloud storage subscription.
Additionally, it’s no secret that exterior security cameras can get pricey. Because cloud-based backup requires a monthly subscription, the price might be significantly more than planned if you’re not careful.
A self-monitored security system is an ideal solution for those who don’t want to be tied to a monthly or annual contract, and there are many options that don’t require monthly subscriptions or cloud storage.
The only drawback is that they don’t offer free automated monitoring. However, they usually offer a free trial for a short period.
To make your search for the best security camera without a subscription easier, we’ve compiled a list of the top ones on the market.
Because it performs almost as well as high-end security cameras on the market for a fraction of the price, the Argus 3 Pro is an obvious pick for our list. Local storage is a significant benefit for Reolink, which has a microSD card slot. You can store videos from your Reolink camera even if you don’t have a subscription. As a solar-powered security camera, it’s also a great pick for reducing your carbon footprint. For $30, you can get a Reolink solar panel. Because it uses a rechargeable battery or solar power, this camera gives you a wide range of options for camera positioning. The camera’s Wi-Fi usage, which drains the battery, is reduced by the use of local storage. This improves overall performance in return. It’s also compatible with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, two of the most popular smart home systems. The camera comes into its own during the night; clear shots from up to 33 feet can be taken using the camera’s brilliant night vision feature.
AffordableSuperior video qualityBright nightlightMicroSD memory card for video storageReduced Wi-Fi usageSolar-powered
No detachable battery.No movement zones.
The Wyze Cam v3 provides outdoor capabilities, a built-in siren, enhanced night vision, and a faster frame rate for smoother footage than its predecessor. Despite its slight price increase, the v3 wireless camera is still a very budget-friendly option. Using a starlight sensor and two different types of infrared LEDs, Wyze Cam v3 produces color video in the dark. It is the first Wyze camera to record at 20 frames per second (fps) throughout the day, offering a smoother video playback and live watching experience than Wyze’s prior cameras. Wyze offers free cloud storage, which allows you to save up to 14 days’ worth of 12-second clips. Those who don’t want to get a microSD card can use the Wyze Cam Plus paid cloud storage service to capture full-length video clips. Additionally, it’s one of the most affordable security camera solutions on the market, costing just $2 a month or $15 per year. However, you don’t need a subscription if you decide to do the monitoring on your own.
Very affordableColor night visionIndoor and outdoor capabilitiesIntegrated sirenMicroSD space
Corded power supply
The Google Nest Cam delivers incredible picture, video, and audio quality. Additionally, it makes most of its smart alerts available to customers without the need for a Nest Aware subscription. It also includes a long-lasting battery and built-in video storage, which allows the camera to capture up to a week’s worth of footage if the internet connection fails. There is also free cloud storage available, making Nest far more affordable for those on a budget. Although it only keeps three hours of video footage, this is an improvement on the complete absence of free storage available on other cameras. Among the free smart alerts available are the detection of people, animals, vehicles, and motion zones. The fact that so many functions are available without requiring a monthly membership is a huge benefit. You must still pay to utilize facial recognition, which is a little disappointing. However, the fact that you do not need to pay a separate price for each camera in your house certainly makes up for this.
Excellent video qualityLocal backup storageBattery-poweredExcellent aesthetic and design
ExpensiveFacial recognition requires a subscription
Abode primarily focuses on specialty cameras. While Abode’s cameras have some innovative technology, it is dispersed throughout all three of the company’s cameras rather than merged into one great camera. The Iota is great for smart home security and is especially beneficial for renters, while the Exterior Smart Cam is intended for outdoor surveillance. The only Abode camera that can be mounted on your ceiling is the yet-to-be-released Cam 2. To get the complete experience, you’ll almost certainly want to purchase all three Abode cameras. While you’ll need to pay for a monthly plan to use the most advanced features, Abode’s pricing is among the cheapest in the business. However, a subscription isn’t required to use the basic camera features.
Can be self-contained camerasAffordably priced surveillance planCompatibility with smart homesSharp 1080p cameraWorks with numerous third-party devicesAlexa, Google Assistant, HomeKit, and IFTTT support
Must be plugged inA subscription is necessary to get the full functionalitySub-par video quality
YI’s dome camera is a cute and reliable way to keep in touch with kids and pets when you can’t be at home. An anti-noise filter makes it easy to hear your baby cry or talk to your kids about homework after school. The biggest upgrade from the original YI dome camera is a physical shutter that can be closed. This means you can prevent the camera from recording when privacy is needed. Another great addition to this wireless security camera is its unlimited free cloud storage. However, be careful if you are an Android user as there are several reports of Android compatibility issues.
Privacy shutterFree cloud storage optionsPeople and sound detection
Limited free cloud storageHigh price cloud storage
Arlo offers some of the most popular indoor and outdoor cameras. They are completely wireless and don’t usually require a monthly subscription. Videos are recorded continuously. However, if you want professional monitoring, you’ll need a subscription. The Essential Spotlight Camera has a similar design to most Arlo outdoor cameras. It is 3.0 x 2.0 x 3.5 inches (HWD) and features an IP65 weather-resistant exterior with a black faceplate. There are two infrared LEDs for black and white night vision in addition to the camera and a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi radio. It also includes a motion sensor and an LED spotlight. When on, the spotlight will shine brightly, allowing you to see in color even at night. In addition to its 130-degree field of vision and 12X digital zoom, the camera records 1080p video. When motion is detected, push and email notifications are sent and video is recorded. However, to see the footage, you must subscribe to an Arlo Smart Plan. The camera also includes wall mounts, chimes, and a spotlight; however, there are no standalone motion detectors, which might be a dealbreaker for some people.
Continuous recordingDoorbell cameraWireless HDRIndoor/outdoor cameraCost-effective file storageRemote video access
Add-ons can be a more on the expansive sideNon-removable battery
Blink is a wonderful indoor security camera owned by Amazon. It is on the cheaper side as Amazon focuses on creating high-quality cameras for a small price. The most significant selling point is its long battery life, which can last up to two years. This is made possible by recording short videos and turning off Wi-Fi when the camera is not used. It’s also very compatible with third-party apps and systems. You can easily connect it to Alexa and Fire TV devices, and you have the option to follow a live view on Alexa smart displays. All of the Blink cameras are very small and, therefore, very discreet, making it convenient to hide in your house without anyone noticing. Additionally, these pocket-sized cameras are super easy to install. Simply follow the on-screen instructions on the app, and it will take less than 10 minutes to set up. However, the Blink application doesn’t walk you through the steps of physically installing the camera. The little manual that comes with the cameras doesn’t explain it either. Still, you won’t need a professional if you’re inexperienced; you might just need a little more time and a couple of Google searches. If you want your videos to be saved, you’ll have to have a subscription. However, this makes it possible to save up only two hours of relatively little footage.
IFTTT integrationLow priceGood for renters and small spaces
No pro monitoringLimited field of view
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