Categories: Outdoor

The 8 Best Wireless Security Cameras Without Subscription of 2023

Published by
James marcus

Researching wireless security cameras without subscription quickly reveals that actually finding a camera without subscription is a difficult task.

Most options keep features behind paywalls, including wireless security cameras from Google, Ring, and Arlo.

We’ve rounded up some of the best subscription free security camera options below.

The 8 Best Subscription-Free Wireless Cameras | No Monthly Fees

  • Best indoor security camera without subscription – AlfredCam
  • Best wireless outdoor security camera with no subscription – eufy SoloCam E40
  • Cheapest security camera without subscription – AlfredCamera (app)
  • Best Wi-Fi security camera without subscription – Blink Outdoor
  • Best design security camera no subscription – Abode iota
  • Best doorbell camera without subscription – eufy Video Doorbell
  • Best floodlight security camera without subscription – eufy Floodlight Camera 2
  • Best security camera for small business without subscription – Reolink 4K Ultra HD Security System

AlfredCam

Best indoor security camera without subscription

Available on AlfredCamera and Amazon. From $29.99.

Pros

  • Extremely affordable
  • Strong color night vision
  • microSD card support

Cons

  • No third party voice assistant support
  • Not weatherproof
  • AI-based person detection requires subscription

AlfredCam perfects the basics—great color night vision, up to 1080p HD video, and super responsive motion detection notifications are all available right out of the box. It’s lightweight, small and chic, allowing it to slip into interiors seamlessly.

Not to toot our own horn, but we’re loving AlfredCam. Read the full overview where we share the unboxing & onboarding experience, or visit our product page to learn more about it.

Continuous recording is possible thanks to the inclusion of microSD support. Setup is simple, and it works great alongside existing AlfredCamera devices.

Key Specifications

  • 1080p HD video
  • 130-degree field of view
  • Two-way audio
  • MicroSD card support
  • Powered by USB
  • Infrared night vision
  • Built-in siren
  • 7 days cloud storage
  • Person detection (Premium)

How much is AlfredCamera a month?AlfredCamera Premium is $5.99 a month or $29.99 a year (equivalent to$2.49 a month). While AlfredCamera and AlfredCam can be used without a subscription, Premium adds Supreme quality, zooming, person detection, ad-removal, and more. Download today to get peace of mind now.

eufy SoloCam E40

Best wireless outdoor security camera with no subscription

Available on eufy, Amazon, and Walmart. From $129.99.

Image via eufy

Pros

  • Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility
  • Recharges via a USB
  • IP65 weatherproof

Cons

  • No floodlight
  • Assigning motion detection zones can be finicky
  • No expandable physical storage

eufy’s SoloCam E40 is a Wi-Fi enabled security camera perfect for outdoors. Supporting up to 2K resolution, infrared night vision and person detection, the SoloCam E40 is a fantastic and reasonably-priced choice for those looking to monitor outside the home without monthly fees.

Cloud storage is an option, but the SoloCam E40 comes with 8GB of onboard storage, which will be more than sufficient for most uses so long as unwanted footage is deleted occasionally.

There’s no flashlight, but that’s nothing a motion detecting light can’t solve.

Key Specifications

  • 2K HD video
  • 130-degree field of view
  • Two-way audio
  • 8GB onboard storage
  • Wire-free
  • Infrared night vision
  • Built-in siren
  • IP65 weatherproof
  • Person detection

Cloud subscriptions for outdoor cameras—Should you do it?Sometimes, outdoor security cameras fail to maintain a wireless signal no matter where they are placed. When connection drop-outs are a recurring issue, local or microSD storage is a necessity. Cloud storage won’t cut it if the device can’t maintain a stable internet connection, so be sure that the Wi-Fi is able to reach the area where the device would be.

AlfredCamera (app)

Cheapest security camera without subscription

Available on Google Play Store and the App store. Free, with the option for premium.

Pros

  • Free, with the option for affordable Premium upgrades
  • No hardware required
  • Motion detection, two-way talk, and continuous recording

Cons

  • Requires a spare smart device
  • Functionality will depend on the phone itself
  • Mounting the device may require additional accessories

For those on a strict budget, nothing is better than free. AlfredCamera turns old smartphones into robust security cameras. 24/7 live streaming, motion detection, and two-way talk are all included for the low price of absolutely nothing.

Can I use AlfredCamera without a subscription?Yes, AlfredCamera can be used as a long-term surveillance solution without a subscription.Alfred Premium, available from $2.49 a month, provides users with additional features, including Supreme quality, enhanced digital zoom, and personalized motion detection settings.Free security? Say no more! Download AlfredCamera for free on Android and iOS devices now, or learn more about what Alfred Premium can do for you.

Premium adds additional features like person detection, but all the essential features are available as soon as you install the app. While the quality and functionality will depend partially on the phone model, it’s a wise option for those prioritizing budget that still want to feel secure.

Key Specifications

  • Live feeds
  • Motion detection
  • Continuous recording
  • Push notifications
  • Low-light mode
  • Two-way audio
  • 7-day free cloud storage

Pro TipAfter experimenting with AlfredCamera on old phones and other devices, users can consider adding an AlfredCam indoor security camera. Users can add as many devices as they want to their account without having to fork out additional fees, making it easy to create a reliable home security system.

Blink Outdoor

Best Wi-Fi security camera without subscription

Available on Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart. RRP $99.99.

Image via Amazon

Pros

  • Supports up to 265GB flash drive storage with the Sync Module 2
  • Two-year battery life
  • IP65 weatherproof

Cons

  • No two-way audio
  • Recordings are short

The streamlined Blink Outdoor is a Wi-Fi-enabled camera. It records in up to 1080p HD, supports USB drive local storage (you have to buy an add-on peripheral but the camera itself is on the more affordable side), and it boasts infrared motion detection.

Unusually, the camera is powered by AA batteries, making it a truly wire-free system. As its name suggests, it’s also weatherproof. Though there is a microphone on it, there’s no option for two-way audio.

Key Specifications

  • 1080p HD video
  • 110-degree field of view
  • USB storage via add-on
  • Wire-free (uses disposable AA batteries)
  • Infrared night vision
  • Motion detection
  • IP65 weatherproof

Abode iota

Best design security camera no subscription

Available on abode and Amazon. From $245.

Image via Amazon

Pros

  • Attractive design
  • Super cross-compatible with Google, Alexa, Siri, and many other automated devices
  • SD card storage

Cons

  • No facial recognition or person detection
  • Expensive
  • No multi-factor authentication required for its apps

Abode has come up with a solution for those that are both more aesthetically inclined and averse to subscription fees.

Google Assistant, Alexa, and Siri compatible, the iota system records at 1080p HD and has infrared night vision. Catch up with burglars via two-way audio or scare them off with the built-in siren.

All of this can be controlled with a sleek fob, while footage can be saved to an SD card. Cloud storage is an option, but not necessary.

Key Specifications

  • 1080p HD video
  • 157-degree field of view
  • Plug-in + x 4 AA batteries
  • microSD card support
  • Motion detection
  • Infrared night vision
  • Two-way audio
  • Built-in siren

eufy Video Doorbell

Best doorbell camera without subscription

Available on eufy, Best Buy, and Amazon. From $199.99.

Image via Amazon

Pros

  • High quality (2K) and fast
  • No subscription fees
  • Easy setup

Cons

  • Expensive upfront cost
  • Sacrifices an ethernet port for the HomeBase
  • 2K video will quickly consume local storage

The majority of video doorbells require monthly fees to run. eufy’s doorbell can instead interface with a ‘HomeBase’ that plugs into your Wi-Fi router. It’s actually the doorbell chime and a 16GB hard drive that stores what the camera records.

Recommended reading: Do I Need a Router for Security Cameras?

High quality can be expected thanks to the speedy HomeBase, with the camera capable of up to 2K video. It records in a 4:3 ratio, which makes it easier to catch facial details in doorways.

It’s rechargeable, with battery life lasting up to 180 days. Let the mailman know where to leave a package with two-way audio and preset messages.

Key Specifications

  • 2k video
  • 160-degree field of view
  • Rechargeable battery
  • Local storage via a HomeBase (sold separately)
  • Smart detection
  • Infrared night vision
  • Two-way audio
  • Built-in siren
  • IP65 weatherproof

eufy Floodlight Camera 2

Best floodlight camera without subscription

Available onWalmart, Amazon, andBestBuy. From $145.99.

Image via Amazon

Pros

  • Subscription-free
  • 2,500 lumen LED floodlights
  • Easy connection with Alexa and Google Assistant

Cons

  • Motion activated events only
  • Voice control is limited (can’t control lights)
  • No expandable internal memory

eufy’s line of security cameras has gained a great reception among users for quality, prices, and a lack of monthly fees.

Floodlight cameras are purpose-built for the outdoors, making them essential for monitoring poorly lit exteriors. This 1080p, 2,500 lumen floodlight camera with built-in smart siren is truly a one time purchase.

Key Specifications

  • 1080p HD video
  • 130-degree field of view
  • Wired
  • 4GB local storage
  • Smart detection
  • 2,500 lumen floodlight
  • Two-way audio
  • Built-in siren
  • IP65 weatherproof

Looking to shine a light on a backyard, porch, or parking area? Check out more floodlight camera choices.

Reolink 4K Ultra HD Security System

Best security camera for small business without subscription

Available on Amazon. From $559.99.

Image via Amazon

Pros

  • Plenty of storage, with option for additional external hard-drive up to 6TB
  • High quality 4K footage
  • Inexpensive option for small businesses

Cons

  • Doesn’t support PoE switches (meaning it has to be directly connected to the NVR using cables)
  • No two-way audio

Business places have different security requirements to homes. They need multiple cameras to effectively monitor the area and significantly more storage for 24/7 recording. Subscription fees for that could wind up very expensive for a small business owner.

Reolink’s inexpensive 4K Ultra HD Security System comes with four different cameras and a HDD with a massive 2TB of onboard storage. There’s also the option to install up to 6TB of additional storage for backup.

Key Specifications

  • 4K video
  • 87-degree field of view
  • Wired
  • 2TB hard drive, with up to 6TB add-on
  • Motion detection
  • Infrared night vision
  • IP66 weatherproof

Operating a new business? Security is paramount to safety and success. Discover business security solutions for different types of business.

Credit: Security.org

What are Security Camera Subscriptions For?

Most security cameras on the market have subscription services available as an optional add-on. Subscriptions are paid monthly or annually.

What are the security camera features that require subscriptions?

1. Cloud Storage

The feature most likely to be obtained from paying a subscription is cloud storage. Security cameras without cloud subscription are few and far between.

There’s also plenty of benefits to using cloud storage—losing or breaking the physical device will never jeopardize the footage, and it’s a more practical way to save high quality footage.

Can I use a security camera without a subscription?Yes, some security cameras can be used without a subscription. Cameras that don’t require subscriptions for long-term use usually have some form of physical storage, like microSD card support (as is the case with AlfredCam).Subscriptions come with plenty of benefits, the most common of which is increased cloud storage.

2. Advanced Motion Detection

It’s common to find motion detection in security cameras straight out of the box. Less common is advanced software features like person detection, animal detection, and object detection.

Advanced motion detection features greatly reduce the number of unwanted notifications. This is particularly useful for cameras at the front door that are frequently triggered.

Being able to spot packages is also super handy in this context, encouraging users to communicate with the delivery person through two-way audio.

The Most Advanced Motion Detection Features YetThe latest feature coming to AlfredCamera later this year will be its biggest ever. Premium users, get excited for Advanced Detection. The update will consist of three innovative new motion detection featuresPerson Lingering – Get notified if people are lingering in the frame for a certain amount of time, the duration of which is chosen by you. This is an unparalleled way to accurately detect suspicious activity in and around your property. · People Absent – The ‘yin’ to Person Lingering’s ‘yang’: get notified if people are absent from the frame for a certain amount of time, the duration of which is chosen by you. There’s plenty of different uses for this, like making childminding much easier and safer.· Motion Stopped – While it’s common for cameras to be triggered by the onset of motion, Alfred Premium users will be able to get notified when motion stops during a set period of time. In places where there’s ordinarily constant movement, like storefronts or warehouses, you’ll be able to react more swiftly. Curious about what Premium could do for you? Find out more about an Alfred Premium subscription.

3. Monitoring Services

A less common feature of security camera subscriptions is real-time emergency monitoring. Some IP security camera brands, including Arlo, Ring, and Wyze, have begun to implement this option.

Professional monitoring forms a major part of the services provided by larger scale security solution providers, like ADT.

The user’s security cameras and alarms are linked to a monitoring center, and if something is flagged as a major security breach, the team on the other end will contact emergency services to be dispatched to the address.

FAQ

What security cameras do not require a subscription?

Security cameras that don’t require a subscription include AlfredCam, Abode iota, and Reolink E1 Pro.

Which security system doesn’t require a subscription?

Security systems almost always require a subscription in addition to a one time fee that covers the devices and installation. However, you can DIY a subscription-free home security system using AlfredCamera.

Since phones, tablets, webcams, and the AlfredCam hardware camera all work alongside the AlfredCamera app, you can easily assemble a network of unlimited devices that is as cost effective as it needs to be.

Do wireless security cameras require a subscription?

Many wireless security cameras have features that can only be accessed via a subscription. Some security cameras require subscribing just to access footage, in effect meaning you have to pay fees in addition to the upfront cost of the product

All the picks in our list above work effectively without paying additional fees.

For the most part, subscriptions allow access to Cloud storage and AI features.

How much data does a security camera use per month?

The amount of data a security camera consumes per month depends on:

1) If it is used continuously or with motion detection enabled.2) The quality settings the user chooses.

A security camera could easily use as much as 90 GB of data per month if it records 24/7 at high quality. Use motion detection and reduced quality settings to significantly reduce the amount of data a security camera uses in a month.

Do AlfredCamera cameras record all the time?

AlfredCamera cameras can record all the time by activating Continuous Recording. This records footage in 8-hour loops by using the storage on the device. It writes over itself once 8 hours has passed, or once the device’s storage has maxed out. Find out more about how Alfred can be used to record all the time here.

AlfredCam also supports microSD card storage, so footage can be recorded continuously and saved to it if the user chooses to do so.

How do I permanently save AlfredCamera videos?

Users can ‘permanently save’ AlfredCamera videos by downloading them. Events are motion-enabled clips which can be downloaded to the viewing device (free users are limited to one at a time, while Premium users can download up to 10).

Moments are manually recorded by the user, and can also be permanently saved by downloading them.

Full 8 hour continuous recording loops can’t be downloaded, but if motion detection is enabled, the motion-enabled events it captures can be downloaded.

Conclusion

Wi-Fi enabled security cameras without subscription are available on the market—and are just as great security options.

AlfredCamera gives users more choice in how they do security, allowing them to create DIY home security systems that go easy on the wallet.

Recommended reading: The Best Wireless Security Cameras of 2023How Far Away Can a Wireless Security Camera Work? How Often Do You Have to Charge Wireless Security Cameras?Why Do My Wireless Cameras Keep Disconnecting? | 5 Quick FixesHow to Install Wireless Security Cameras Indoors in 8 Easy Steps (with Pictures)

This post was last modified on 11/10/2023 15:52

James marcus

Garden Courte is a blog written by [James Marcus], a passionate gardener and writer. She has been gardening for over 20 years and has a deep understanding of plants and how to care for them. In her blog, she shares her knowledge and experience with others, providing tips and advice on gardening, plant care, and more.

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Published by
James marcus

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