Harley Sutherland
Video doorbells are now a core component of home security and can be really convenient. However, some video doorbells require a subscription to access certain features, such as saving recordings and receiving person alerts. The fees for these subscriptions can add up, sometimes costing more than the doorbell itself after just a few years.
If you're looking for a video doorbell without a subscription, there are several options available on the market. These doorbells typically store footage locally, usually on a microSD card or internal memory, which can keep your recordings private and save you money.
- Aqara Smart Video Doorbell G4
- Eufy Video Doorbell C210
- Eufy Video Doorbell E340
- Lorex 2K QHD B451AJD-E
- TP-Link Kasa Smart KD110
- Blink Video Doorbell
- XTU Doorbell Camera Wireless
- AOSU Doorbell Camera Wireless
- eufy Security Battery Video Doorbell C210 Kit
- REOLINK Doorbell WiFi Camera
- MUBVIEW Wireless Doorbell Camera with Chime
- Arlo Essential Wired Video Doorbell
- WUUK 2K Doorbell Camera
- Google Nest Doorbell 2nd gen (battery)
- Eufy Security Video Doorbell S330
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Brand | Aqara, Energizer, Eufy, Lorex, TP-Link, Blink, XTU, AOSU, ieGeek, Reolink, MUBVIEW, WUUK, Ankway, Allesin, Hiseeu, BOIFUN, Arlo, Google Nest, Ring, BondFree, Dzees, eufy security |
| Subscription | No subscription required |
| Video Quality | HD, 1080p, 2K, 5MP Ultra HD |
| Power Source | Wired, Battery-powered, Wired/wireless |
| Smart Home Compatibility | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple Home/Siri, Apple HomeKit |
| Storage | Local storage, Cloud storage, microSD card, internal memory |
| AI Recognition | Package detection, Person detection, Face recognition, Vehicle detection, Animal detection |
| Alerts | Motion detection, Instant alerts, Smart alerts |
| Two-Way Audio | Yes |
| Night Vision | Yes |
What You'll Learn
Video doorbells with no subscription and local storage
Video doorbells are a great way to monitor your home's security and keep an eye on your packages. While many video doorbells store footage in the cloud, which often requires a subscription, there are several options that offer local storage, keeping your recordings private and saving you money. Here are some of the best video doorbells with no subscription and local storage:
Eufy Video Doorbell:
Eufy offers a range of video doorbells that provide local storage. Here are some of their popular models:
- Eufy Video Doorbell C210: This doorbell offers impressive video quality and fast response time at a low price. It includes local video storage when you plug a microSD card into the doorbell chime.
- Eufy Video Doorbell E340: This dual-camera doorbell has speedy response times and strong data security. It offers 8 GB of internal memory for local storage and also provides the option of cloud video storage subscriptions.
- Eufy Video Doorbell S330: Another dual-camera doorbell from Eufy, the S330 has 8 GB of built-in memory for local storage. It also offers cloud video storage subscriptions as an alternative.
Aqara Smart Video Doorbell G4:
The Aqara Smart Video Doorbell G4 is an excellent choice if you want both power and storage options. It offers local storage of up to 512 GB via a microSD card and also provides free seven-day cloud storage. You can power it with batteries or hardwire it to your existing doorbell wiring. It offers local AI-enabled facial recognition and excellent night vision.
Blink Video Doorbell:
The Blink Video Doorbell is a budget-friendly option that offers local storage. It works with the Sync Module 2 for local storage, and you can use a USB flash drive to store footage continuously. It has a 1080p video resolution and is compatible with Alexa. However, it lacks smart AI features and requires a subscription for cloud storage.
Kasa Smart Video Doorbell KD110:
The Kasa Smart Video Doorbell is a wired option that offers local storage via a microSD card of up to 128 GB. It has a high 3MP resolution and includes people and motion detection. It also comes with a wireless chime, but some smart notifications can be unreliable.
Lorex 2K Wired Video Doorbell:
The Lorex 2K Wired Video Doorbell is an excellent choice if you prefer local storage. It includes a 32 GB microSD card and supports up to a 256 GB card for expanded storage. It offers two-way audio, night vision, and quick reply messages. It also has AI detection for objects like vehicles, packages, and animals without any extra fees.
These video doorbells provide excellent features and local storage options, allowing you to monitor your home's security without the need for a subscription.
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Video doorbells with no subscription and cloud storage
There are a variety of video doorbells available that do not require a subscription and offer local storage of footage.
Aqara Smart Video Doorbell G4
The Aqara Smart Video Doorbell G4 is a highly rated video doorbell that stores footage locally. It can be powered by six AA batteries or connected to low-voltage doorbell wiring. It comes with a wireless plug-in chime, where you can plug in the microSD card to store footage. Aqara also offers free seven-day cloud video storage, and Apple users can opt for Apple HomeKit Secure Video to store footage in iCloud with end-to-end encryption.
Eufy Video Doorbell C210
The Eufy Video Doorbell C210 is a battery-powered video doorbell that offers local video storage when you plug a microSD card into the doorbell chime. It also features monitoring zones, person detection, geofencing, and voice and app control via Amazon Alexa and Google Home/Assistant.
Energizer Connect Video Doorbell
The Energizer Connect Video Doorbell is a wired video doorbell that stores footage locally using a microSD card (sold separately). It offers monitoring zones, voice/app control via Amazon Alexa and Google Home/Assistant, and can ring your home's existing doorbell chime.
Kasa Smart Video Doorbell KD110
The Kasa Smart Video Doorbell KD110 is a wired video doorbell that stores footage on a microSD card (sold separately). It features monitoring zones, voice and app control via Amazon Alexa and Google Home/Assistant, and person detection. However, it cannot ring your home's existing chime and instead comes with a wireless plug-in chime.
Lorex 2K QHD B451AJD-E WiFi Video Doorbell
The Lorex 2K QHD B451AJD-E WiFi Video Doorbell is a wired video doorbell that stores footage locally on a microSD card (32GB card included). It offers monitoring zones, person detection, geofencing, colour night vision, and voice and app control via Amazon Alexa and Google Home/Assistant. It can also ring your home's existing doorbell chime.
Blink Video Doorbell
The Blink Video Doorbell offers local storage of footage when used with the Sync Module 2 (sold separately). It can be powered by batteries or connected to existing doorbell wiring. It is compatible with Alexa and offers features such as custom motion zones and two-way talk.
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Wired vs wireless video doorbells
There are two main types of doorbells: wired and wireless. Wired doorbells are traditional doorbells that involve complex wiring systems and often require professional help to install. They can be more affordable than wireless doorbells but may be more expensive in the long run, as they tend to malfunction and need replacing several times a year. Wired doorbells can also be challenging to install, maintain, and replace, requiring regular checks by a professional.
Wireless doorbells, on the other hand, are battery-operated or electric-powered and do not need wiring. They are easy to install and can be placed almost anywhere in the house, including the basement or attic. Wireless doorbells transmit signals easily from the door to the receiver inside the house, and some models can work with multiple receivers. They also boost the security level of a home with features like night vision, video cameras, and WiFi connectivity, allowing you to see, hear, and talk to guests before opening the door. Wireless doorbells are also beneficial for hearing-impaired individuals, as they often include flashing LED lights to indicate a visitor. Additionally, wireless doorbells have a more appealing look, as they do not require chime boxes.
However, wireless doorbells have fewer designer options, mostly offering functional plain white or beige components with a few more elaborate styles. Wired doorbells, on the other hand, offer a larger selection of decorative styles, including retro brushed steel, antique metallic scroll designs, and sleek, polished wood covers. Wired doorbells also have more traditional chimes, with classic doorbell tones and rich symphonic sounds.
When choosing between a wired and wireless doorbell, consider your priorities in terms of features, flexibility, design, and convenience. If you value versatility, ease of installation, security features, and a sleek look, a wireless doorbell may be the best choice. If you prefer a wider range of decorative styles and traditional chimes, a wired doorbell might be more suitable.
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Video doorbells with smart home integration
Video doorbells are now a core component of home security. They can be integrated with smart home systems and voice assistants like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit.
Eufy Video Doorbell Dual
This video doorbell has two cameras, so you can clearly see when there is a package at your door. It also has no subscription fees for extra features like package detection. It works with Alexa and Google Home.
Ecobee Smart Doorbell Camera
The Ecobee Smart Doorbell Camera is one of the few video doorbells that work with Apple's HomeKit. It also offers a great view of your front porch area and has person and package detection. It integrates with Alexa and HomeKit (Google support is in the works).
Arlo Video Doorbell 2K
The Arlo Video Doorbell 2K works with Alexa, Google Assistant, and HomeKit. It has a higher-than-average resolution of 2K and a diagonal field of view of 180 degrees. It also supports hardwired and battery installation.
Aqara Smart Video Doorbell G4
The Aqara Smart Video Doorbell G4 can be battery-powered or connected to low-voltage doorbell wiring for power. It offers local (and free) facial recognition and has multiple options for video storage. It can also be integrated with Apple HomeKit Secure Video to store footage in iCloud with end-to-end encryption.
Eufy Video Doorbell C210
The Eufy Video Doorbell C210 is battery-powered and offers impressive video quality and fast response time at a low price. It comes with a plug-in doorbell chime and features monitoring zones, person detection, geofencing, and voice and app control via Alexa and Google Home/Assistant.
Eufy Video Doorbell E340
The Eufy Video Doorbell E340 is a dual-camera doorbell with one camera aimed at visitors and the other at packages. It has colour night vision, person detection, package detection, facial recognition, monitoring zones, and voice and app control via Alexa and Google Home/Assistant. It can be battery-powered or wired and includes 8GB of memory for video storage.
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Video doorbells with two-way audio
Blink Video Doorbell
The Blink Video Doorbell is a wired or wire-free option that offers two-way audio, HD video, motion detection, and chime app alerts. It is also Alexa-enabled and has been a popular choice, with over 10K bought in the past month on Amazon.
XTU Doorbell Camera Wireless
The XTU Doorbell Camera is a wireless option with no subscription required. It features 2K video, two-way audio, instant alerts, human detection, and night vision. It is battery-powered and suitable for apartment, indoor, or outdoor security.
AOSU Doorbell Camera Wireless
The AOSU Doorbell Camera is another wireless option with no monthly fees. It offers a 166-degree ultra-wide-angle view, 180-day battery life, AI detection, and compatibility with Alexa and Google Assistant.
Eufy Security Battery Video Doorbell C210 Kit
The eufy Security Battery Video Doorbell C210 is a battery-powered, Wi-Fi-enabled option with no subscription required. It offers 1080p video, AI detection, two-way audio, and remote monitoring. It also boasts an impressive 120-day battery life.
REOLINK Doorbell WiFi Camera
The REOLINK Doorbell WiFi Camera is a wired 5MP outdoor video doorbell with no subscription required. It offers smart detection, local storage, and a customized chime. It is compatible with 5G and 2.4G Wi-Fi and includes a microSD card for local storage.
Ring Video Doorbell
The Ring Video Doorbell is a battery-operated option that enables two-way talk via iPhone, Android smartphone, tablet, or Amazon Alexa device. It offers customizable privacy and audio privacy zones and a quick-release rechargeable battery for wire-free installation. It can also be connected to existing doorbell wiring for a non-stop power supply.
Eufy Two-Way Audio Video Doorbell
The eufy Two-Way Audio Video Doorbell is a wired video doorbell that only detects a human's body shape and face pattern with its advanced AI algorithm. It offers 2K resolution, which is clearer than most video doorbells on the market, and includes local storage to save motion-triggered videos for later playback. There are no monthly fees for cloud storage.
These options provide a range of features and compatibility to suit your needs, and all offer the convenience of two-way audio without the additional cost of a monthly subscription.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, there are several camera doorbells available that don't require a monthly subscription. Some options include the Aqara Smart Video Doorbell G4, Eufy Video Doorbell C210, and Google Nest Doorbell (2nd Gen).
Camera doorbells without a subscription typically store footage locally, either on a microSD card or internal memory. This provides more control over your recordings and can save you money.
Camera doorbells without monthly fees give you more control over your data and can save you money in the long run. You also avoid the hassle of managing subscriptions and additional costs.
Not necessarily. While some features like intelligent object recognition may be limited or absent, many of these doorbells still offer person detection, motion detection, and other smart features.
When choosing a camera doorbell, consider factors such as video quality, storage options, smart home compatibility, privacy and security, and audio quality. Compare different products and select the one that best suits your needs and preferences.
