Yes, there are security cameras available that don't require a monthly fee for basic functionality. These cameras usually offer local storage options, such as an integrated SD card slot or the ability to connect to a network-attached storage device (NAS). With local storage, you can store images on the camera itself or on your own storage device without relying on a cloud service. Learn more in our full EufyCam 3 review.
One of the most interesting things about the Lorex 4K Spotlight is the multi-color intelligent security lighting, which you can program for different camera modes, such as warning or welcoming visitors. It's also ideal for adding a touch of personality to your security camera during the holidays. Lorex stands out for being the only brand on this list that doesn't offer a cloud storage plan. Never fear; you can still access Lorex cameras and video recordings from a mobile app.
In addition, Lorex is one of the only home security camera brands that includes a microSD card with each 32 GB camera in this case, and you won't need a separate purchase to use your camera to the fullest. But the best thing about Lorex is that its most recent cameras support microSD cards up to 256 GB. For comparison, many other brands exceed 128 GB, consolidating Lorex as the best option for people using this storage option. The Nest doorbell (battery) easily tops our list of the best video doorbells because it's easy to install and provides users with the best-in-class intelligent motion detection of Nest free form.
While the facial recognition feature still requires a paid plan, we're pleased that the other intelligent detection features for people, animals, packages and vehicles work without a subscription. The Reolink E1 Zoom is SafeWise's highest-performing security camera. No other security camera has given us the same flexibility to customize the settings we've seen with the E1 Zoom. Despite this, the E1 Zoom tends to go unnoticed compared to the rest of our best options, since we don't yet have a formal classification of indoor or panoramic cameras and tiltable.
It also often takes a back seat to Reolink Argus, which has weather protection to provide more flexible installation options. Still, we love the E1 Zoom for its exceptional video quality and optical zoom, which is the secret why videos look so sharp. Even with a 2K resolution, the E1 Zoom stands firm against the 4K giants of Arlo and Eufy, all for a fraction of the price. Check out our review of Reolink cameras to see how the E1 compares Zoom with other Reolink cameras.
Any brand on this list will work without needing a subscription, but the EufyCam 3 is an easy recommendation for anyone who wants maximum outdoor performance. The integrated solar panels keep it ready to catalog all the people, animals, vehicles and faces that cross its field of vision. It's certainly an expensive option, but the 4K video resolution, ease of installation, and excellent HomeBase 3 base station make the additional investment worth it. If it's too rich for you, it's likely that Eufy's huge selection of security cameras has a more affordable option for IT.
The Arlo Ultra 2 is the only Arlo camera that still needs a base station, making it the only ready-to-use solution for local storage in Arlo, although you'll need to provide a USB storage device. While you can upgrade other Arlo cameras with a SmartHub, this add-on adds a significant increase to the total price of Arlo cameras. In a nutshell, Google Nest offers the most effective intelligent motion detection features among home security cameras without the need to pay for a subscription, and only reserves facial recognition and hazard alarm detection for paid cloud storage plans. Plus, if you're on a budget, you might also consider checking out my guide to the most affordable home security systems.
We love that Tapo works with Alexa and Google Home, making it a great option for people starting a smart home from scratch, especially when using the company's smart lighting, sockets and security sensors. They revolutionized the home security market with their Ring Doorbell cameras and continue to innovate in this area. If you're looking for a home security system that covers all the bases, SimpliSafe should definitely be on your favorites list. Installing an Arlo home security system doesn't involve much, since it's really just two different devices.
These packages are probably the best starting point for people looking to develop their home security systems. That said, a security system without a subscription is still better than having no security system at all, especially if you're on a tight budget. This is a worrying trend considering that two major home security manufacturers have increased the prices of their services consecutively for two consecutive years. As soon as the security sensors placed in your home are activated, they send a signal to the base station.
