Looking for a home security camera that doesn’t require a monthly subscription? Nowadays it is difficult to find one. Security brands are set to receive subscription fees, and even today’s self-monitoring plans typically require a monthly fee to use important storage for your videos (required to watch and use videos later) and other useful features.
So where does that leave you? You can either look for an increasingly rare security cam that offers cloud storage without a subscription, or you can look for a security cam that enables local storage, usually via an SD card slot, so that they automatically load footage to the card and you can test it later. Can and can delete it if necessary. The problem is that security cams are not always interested in advertising their local storage capacity. We’ve made everything a lot easier with our list of the best outdoor security cameras that don’t require a subscription.
Nest doorbell (battery)
Save up to 3 hours of video without a subscription
Professional
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Fantastic minimalist design
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Intelligent caution
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Video history does not require a subscription
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Useful quick response
Cons
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The subtle video details are on the soft side
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Inconsistent capture rate
If you’re not interested in subscription fees, Google’s Nest brand offers one of the best deals possible for video doorbells. Video doorbells are often triggered by passersby, etc., so they can use up a lot of video storage space. Nest Doorbell doesn’t just have AI technology to dispose of cars and identify packages (a fee is required for other identification), but it does offer a three-hour event video history stored in the cloud that can be saved if needed, giving you time to work.
We have chosen the battery model for this list because it is easy to install and set up and a good charge lasts three months. However a wired version of this cam is available if you want to avoid the battery. The Nest Aware subscription adds more storage options if you ever decide that you need more security.
Nest doorbell (battery)
Save up to 3 hours of video without a subscription
Reolink Go Plus with solar panels
Subscription, no. Data plan, yes
Professional
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7 days cloud video storage is free
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Solar energy to charge the battery automatically
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2K resolution
Cons
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A data plan is required to use
Reolink is another of the few brands that offers online cloud storage without the need for a subscription. This 4G cam offers night vision up to 33 feet and 2K resolution plus the ability to identify individuals and vehicles, along with two-way audio options such as many smart cams these days. But the real value lies in the optional SD card location storage options, combined with seven days of free cloud storage that does not require a subscription plan.
This model also has a solar panel, which is great for keeping the battery charged when installed properly and gives you more options for installation. Remember it’s a data-driven camera, so you’ll need a data plan with a compatible carrier like your T-Mobile. The advantage of this option is that you don’t have to worry about being too far away from your Wi-Fi and it is more resistant to local blackouts.
Reolink Go Plus with solar panels
Subscription, no. Data plan, yes
Wyze Cam v3
Save the video to an SD card
Professional
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Very affordable
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Works both inside and out
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More details including colorful night vision
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Tons safety control
Wyze has become one of the best brands for affordable security products, and the extra-affordable Cam v3 is no exception. Despite the compact size of this friendly camera, it still includes an SD card slot for local storage, so you don’t need a “Cam Plus” plan to record video.
The dilapidated design will not let you think that it is an indoor-only cam: this model is designed for indoor or outdoor use and can be mounted without fear of weather conditions. It plays important features like night vision and two-way audio – just remember you will probably want an outdoor power adapter (sold separately).
Wyze Cam v3
Save the video to an SD card
EufyCam 2C
16GB internal storage for capturing footage
Professional
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Hub with built-in local storage
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Two cams
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Great battery life
Cons
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The hub-based system takes up extra room
Although local storage can sometimes be more difficult to manage, this UFI security system was designed with this in mind. Those who prefer to avoid online video storage completely will like the results. The system works for Hub, which provides 16GB of internal storage without the need to purchase additional cards. UFI says about three months of storage, depending on how often the cams are triggered.
Speaking of cams, you’ll find two of these, both ready for outdoor use and equipped with night vision and two-way audio, as well as built-in spotlights that can also be triggered by speed. The video has been saved using AES-128 data encryption, so it won’t be easy for anyone to interrupt.
EufyCam 2C
16GB internal storage for capturing footage
Defender Phoenix M2
32GB SD card and no internet connection
Professional
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No internet required
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Two camera systems with LCD monitoring screen
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SD card included
Cons
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A display requires personal observation
If you really want to turn off the grid, this camera doesn’t need any data or Wi-Fi connection, and it doesn’t use the Internet at all. Instead, it sends data directly to the included 7-inch LCD monitor. The camera is rigidly designed with night vision and two-way audio. The system comes with two cameras to install, as well as a 32GB SD card to store the video you’re watching. Note that these are wired cameras, so they must be connected to a power source.
Defender Phoenix M2
32GB SD card and no internet connection
Frequently Asked Questions
Can security cameras be installed without internet?
Your other primary option is to use a data connection through a cell tower like your phone, but it can be expensive. Even so, most home security cams are now designed to connect to your Wi-Fi for app access. Our Defend Peak is one of the few home-friendly systems that does not require Internet or data connection.
No Arlo Camera Subscription Required?
Technically, you don’t need a subscription to use an Arlo cam. But then you will completely lose the ability to store videos online and Arlo’s SD cards are Designed to be a backup option, Are not served as primary storage. That is why there is no one in our list at present.
Does Wyze Camera work without a subscription?
Yes, as long as you have an SD card that you can insert into the camera Wise cams are notable for being one of the most affordable home security camera options.
Will I lose any feature other than subscription?
It depends on the brand. Sometimes, you’ll lose certain AI features, certain types of notifications, integration with other smart devices, emergency response options, and more. It really varies based on the plan. However, video storage is of primary concern because it is very important for legal reasons and for general utility. You don’t just want to get stuck with live streaming.
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