While most popular security brands (like Ring, Blink, and Wyze) will charge you to access their cloud, some brands allow you to view cloud recordings for free for a shorter period of time, usually up to seven days. Cloud storage saves your video data online and since someone else has to “host” this storage, it usually requires a subscription fee - but not always. (In other words, if something happens while you’re not staring at the app on your phone, you’re out of luck.) The best outdoor security cameras without a subscription, on the other hand, allow you to access recordings without a monthly fee, either via free cloud storage or local storage.Īs you shop, first consider if a cloud and local storage option is better for you. While some popular security cameras don’t require you to sign up for a subscription, that usually means you can only access the live footage.
