5 Best Video Doorbell Cameras Without Subscriptions
Tired of paying monthly fees for your home security? You’re not alone. Many people are looking for a video doorbell that offers security and peace of mind without a costly subscription. The good news is, there are plenty of great options available.
In this guide, we’ll break down the best video doorbells that don’t require a monthly subscription. We’ll also help you understand the different types of storage options available so you can make the best choice for your home.
| Features | Kangaroo Video Doorbell + Chime | Eufy Video Doorbell E340 | Lorex 2K Wi-Fi Video Doorbell | Arlo Video Doorbell 2K | Blink Video Doorbell |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $69.99 | $179.99 | $149.99 | $129.99 | $59.99 |
| Video Quality | 1080p | 2K | 2K | 2K | 1080p |
| Installation | DIY | DIY or Professional | DIY or Professional | DIY or Professional | DIY |
| Storage | Cloud | Local | Local (+ Cloud opt.) | Local (+ Cloud opt.) | Cloud (+ Local opt.) |
| Audio | Two-way | Two-way | Two-way | Two-way | Two-way |
| Field of View | 160° | 160° (Dual) | 124° | 160° | 135° |
| Night Vision | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Power | Battery (+ Wired opt.) | Battery | Battery | Battery (+ Wired opt.) | Battery |
| Weather Protection | Weather & Water-proof | Weather-Resistant | Weather-Resistant | Weather-Resistant | Weather-Resistant |
| Warranty | 1 year | 1 year | 1 year | 1 year | 1 year |
| Subscription | None | None | None | None | None |
| 24/7 Monitoring | $99.99/year | Yes | $119.88/year | None | Yes |
| Upfront Cost | None | None | None | Homebase $149.99 | None |
| Ease of Install | Very Easy | Easy | Knowledgeable | Easy | Very Easy |
What Does "No Subscription" Really Mean?
When a video doorbell is advertised as "no subscription," it means you can use its basic features without paying a monthly fee. This typically includes live video streaming and motion alerts. However, how your video clips are stored varies. Here are the most common options:
Local Storage (SD Card): The doorbell has a slot for a microSD card, and all your video recordings are stored directly on the card. You can access the footage by removing the card or through the app.
Local Storage (Hub/Base Station): The doorbell connects to a hub or base station inside your home, which stores the video footage. This is generally more secure than an SD card in the doorbell itself.
Free Cloud Storage: Some companies offer a limited amount of free cloud storage. This might be a certain number of days (e.g., 7 days) or a certain amount of storage (e.g., 1 GB).
Optional Paid Plans: Many "no subscription" doorbells offer optional paid plans that give you more storage, advanced features like person detection, and longer video history.
Best Video Doorbells Without Subscriptions
This budget-friendly option offers essential features like motion detection, night vision, and two-way audio. Its simple DIY installation and wireless design make it perfect for renters and homeowners alike. With a 160-degree field of view and crisp 1080p video, you can clearly see who's at your door. Plus, it comes with a chime, so you won't miss any visitors.
Eufy's E340 doorbell boasts 2K resolution, a wide field of view, and clear night vision. It also offers local storage via a built-in microSD card, eliminating the need for cloud storage subscriptions. You can even expand its functionality with a smart lock or other Eufy Security devices.
The Lorex 2K doorbell provides crisp 2K video, a wide field of view, and person detection to minimize false alerts. It offers local storage with an optional cloud storage plan if you want additional backup.
Arlo's Essential doorbell offers clear 1080p video, a wide field of view, and direct-to-mobile alerts. It's a reliable option with good battery life and compatibility with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant
Blink's affordable video doorbell is known for its long battery life and easy installation. It offers basic features like motion detection and two-way audio, making it a great entry-level option for those seeking a simple and affordable solution.
A Detailed Buyer's Guide: Which No-Subscription Doorbell Is Right for You?
Choosing a doorbell isn't one-size-fits-all. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide based on your specific needs:
For the Renter or Apartment Dweller: You need something easy to install and remove without causing damage. Battery-powered options like the Kangaroo Doorbell Camera or Blink Video Doorbell are perfect. Their wire-free setup means you can be up and running in minutes.
For the New Homeowner: You want a reliable, set-it-and-forget-it solution. A wired model like the Lorex 2K ensures you never have to worry about charging batteries and often comes with more advanced features for a permanent installation.
For the Privacy-Focused Individual: If you want total control over your data, your best bet is a doorbell with dedicated local storage. The Eufy Video Doorbell stores everything on a secure hub inside your home, not in the cloud.
For the Smart, Budget-Conscious Shopper: You want essential security features without a high upfront cost or monthly fees. The Kangaroo Doorbell Camera is designed for you, offering fantastic value and a generous free cloud storage plan to get you started.
FAQs About Doorbell Cameras
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Yes, most video doorbells are compatible with existing doorbell chimes. Some models require hardwired installation using your existing doorbell wire, while others offer wireless options that connect to your chime wirelessly.
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A video doorbell camera offers several advantages over a traditional doorbell:
See who's at the door: You can see and speak to visitors even when you're not home, using your smartphone.
Enhanced security: Video doorbells act as a deterrent for potential intruders and provide valuable footage if an incident occurs.
Package detection: Many video doorbells can detect packages left at your door, sending you alerts and helping prevent theft.
Convenience: Answer the door from anywhere, whether you're in the backyard, at work, or on vacation.
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Motion detection alerts you whenever the doorbell camera senses movement in its field of view. This could be triggered by people, animals, or even swaying trees. Person detection uses more advanced technology to specifically identify human presence, reducing false alerts and providing more relevant notifications.
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Battery life varies depending on the model and usage. Typically, battery doorbells like the Ring Battery Doorbell or Blink Video Doorbell can last for several months on a single charge. Factors like frequency of use, video recording settings, and climate can affect battery life.
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Yes, many video doorbells can integrate with smart locks
This allows you to remotely unlock your door for trusted visitors, such as delivery drivers or family members, directly from the video doorbell app.
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While a video doorbell enhances your home security, it might not be a complete solution on its own. For more comprehensive protection, consider integrating it with a full home security system that includes security cameras, sensors, and alarms.
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Both Ring Protect and Nest Aware are subscription services offered by their respective brands. Ring Protect Plan provides features like video recording history, extended warranties, and professional monitoring for Ring devices. Nest Aware offers similar features for Google Nest devices, including facial recognition and event video history.
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Yes, all modern video doorbells allow you to access live view and recorded footage remotely through their smartphone apps. This lets you monitor your doorstep from anywhere with an internet connection.
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For larger properties, consider video doorbells with a wide field of view, such as the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 or the Eufy S330. These models provide a broader perspective of your entrance and surrounding areas.
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Yes, most video doorbell apps allow you to share access with family members or trusted individuals. This enables multiple users to receive alerts, view live view, and access recorded footage.
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Yes, most of all video doorbells have night vision capabilities, allowing them to capture clear footage even in low-light or dark conditions. The quality of night vision varies between models, so consider this factor if you need optimal visibility at night.
The Bottom Line
Choosing the right video doorbell is all about finding the right mix of features, price, and ease of use. If you want a good and affordable option without paying a monthly fee, these five video doorbells are great for keeping your home safe.
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