Outdoor security cameras without subscription fees are a great option for improving home or business security without monthly costs. They provide remote monitoring, real-time alerts, and aid in crime prevention.
Here are key features to consider:
- Video Resolution: High-resolution cameras, usually 1080p or higher, ensure clear and detailed footage, making it easy to spot people or objects in the video.
- Field of View: The field of view, typically between 110° to 180°, shows how much area your camera can cover.
- Water Resistance: Ratings like IP65 or IP67 mean the camera is well-protected from rain and other weather conditions, ensuring durability and longevity.
You can also learn more about the important specifications of a security camera in our “Buying Guide” available right after our selection.
Best Outdoor Security Cameras Without Subscription Table
| Best Outdoor Security Cameras Without Subscription | Video Resolution | Field of View | Waterproof Rating | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| eufy Security Outdoor Cameras | 1080p FHD | 135° | IP67 | Check On Amazon |
| ieGeek Outdoor Security Cameras | 2K QHD | 130° | IP65 | Check On Amazon |
| GMK Outdoor Security Cameras | 1080p FHD | 110° | IP65 | Check On Amazon |
| Zmodo Outdoor Security Cameras | 1080p FHD | 96° | IP66 | Check On Amazon |
| AOSU Outdoor Security Cameras | 2K QHD | 166° | IP67 | Check On Amazon |
| WUUK Outdoor Security Cameras | 2K QHD | 135° | IP67 | Check On Amazon |
| EZVIZ Outdoor Security Cameras | 1080p FHD | 180° | IP67 | Check On Amazon |
Best Outdoor Security Cameras Without Subscription Reviews
1. eufy Security Outdoor Cameras
Home security and safety is an aspect that is not to be taken lightly in this era. Thus, you should always trust a brand like eufy which is one of the most trusted suppliers of home security solutions.
Securing the 1st position on our picks today is the eufyCam 2C Security Camera System which is a complete package for your home security and surveillance. The eufyCam 2C comes with 3 wireless cameras that can be easily installed and connected to your home network. You can live-stream and record footage in crystal clear 1080p HD, with a 135° diagonal field of view and a detailed night vision feature. One of the best features of this set is the half-year security from one charge. You don’t have to worry about frequent trips to charge the battery, as each camera can last up to 180 days on a single charge.
Another great feature of this set is the human detection technology that enables the camera to intelligently detect body shape and face patterns. This way, you only get notified when a person approaches your home. The outdoor cameras are also ready for any weather, with an IP67 waterproof rating. So, you can place the cameras anywhere you want, indoors or outdoors, and enjoy peace of mind. The smart hub on the other hand supports Amazon Alexa, which means that you can use voice commands to control the cameras.
Best Features
- The cameras have 1080p FHD resolution
- It offers 135 degrees of FOV
- It is backed by an IP67 water resistance rating
- Durable and reliable design
Pros
- Easy to install and use
- Clear and crisp video quality, day and night
- Long battery life and smart alerts
Cons
- Limited storage capacity and compatibility
2. ieGeek Outdoor Security Cameras
iGeek is yet another popular supplier for home security cameras which is especially famous for its surprisingly high quality products that are available at an extremely affordable price range.
Our 2nd choice for the best outdoor security camera is the ieGeek Security Camera set designed for smaller applications. Thus, you will get a single surveillance unit with this package at a minimal price point. Plus, it comes with a rechargeable battery and a wireless design, making it easy to install and use. The camera has a 5MP QHD video resolution and a 33 ft color night vision, giving you a clear and detailed view of your surroundings during the day as well as at night. It also has an AI and PIR motion detection and a real-time alarm notification, which can identify people and send you alerts when motion is detected.
The camera has an IP65 waterproof, meaning it can withstand rain and snow without any shortcomings. As for its running costs, most of the features of the camera as well as the supporting smartphone app are available for free, except for the AI function, which requires a subscription. It also offers free cloud storage along with a 2-year warranty period, giving you peace of mind and convenience.
Best Features
- The cameras have a 2K QHD resolution
- It offers 130 degrees of FOV
- It is backed by an IP65 water resistance rating
- Smart and reliable alerts and alarms
Pros
- Designed for smaller applications
- One of the affordable choices on this list
- Video capture resolution is higher than many other options
Cons
- AI functions require a subscription
3. GMK Outdoor Security Cameras
If you are planning to cover all slides of your property with security cameras, you must need 2 or more security cameras to get the job done. So, you should check out the following choice from GMK which offers a set of cameras for a significantly larger coverage area.
In the 3rd position, we are putting yet another set of budget-friendly security cameras which is the GMK Security Cameras. The GMK Security Cameras System is a set that lets you keep an eye on your home with high-quality video, smart alerts, and weather resistance. It comes with two wireless cameras that can be easily installed and connected to your home network in an instant. You can also live-stream and record footage in ultra-HD 1080p quality, with a 3.3mm focal length and a dual light source night vision feature. It is a 100% wireless security system with rechargeable battery cameras. So, you don’t have to deal with any wires, as each camera has a built-in premium rechargeable battery that can last for a long time.
Another great feature of this product is the smart PIR motion detection and instant alerts, which can detect human movements and send you notifications based on AI analysis. You also get the advantage of 2-way communication and an intelligent alarm feature, which allows you to communicate with your visitors or even trigger the alarm if required. You can easily check the live view via your phone and activate the flashing white lights and sirens if you feel threatened at any point. The product also has a free 3-day video history cloud storage and IP65 waterproof feature, which gives you convenience and protection. You can store your footage on a SD card or a cloud service, and enjoy a 30-day free trial of advanced features.
Best Features
- The cameras have 1080p FHD resolution
- It offers 110 degrees of FOV
- It is backed by an IP65 water resistance rating
- Clear and vivid video quality, day and night
Pros
- 2 cameras are included in the set
- AI Motion detection is available
- 2-way communication is provided
Cons
- Solar charging is not possible
4. Zmodo Outdoor Security Cameras
Zmodo is yet another highly affordable option that we have on this list for you today. In fact, the Zmodo cameras are available at the minimum effective price per unit as you are getting a set of 4 cameras.
If you think 1 or 2 cameras won’t be able to cover your property effectively, worry not. This security camera set from Zmodo offers a set of 4 cameras that you can install in different corners and at different angles so that there will be no blindspots in your vicinity. Also, the cameras can withstand a wide range of temperatures ranging between -10℃ to 50℃ and can be placed both indoors and outdoors to protect every inch of your home through every season. The cameras also work with Alexa, meaning you can use voice commands to control the cameras, view the live stream, or playback the recordings.
It also has an exclusive Smartz Eaze cloud recording feature with a 14-day free trial, which gives you extended convenience and security of the recorded footage. Instead of receiving just pictures, you’ll be notified with video clips in Smartz Eaze App when any noticeable motion is detected. Motion video clips are also automatically saved in the cloud server for your convenience. You can enjoy a free 14-day trial of Smartz Eaze cloud recording plan to see if the added services are as per your liking or not before you make the final choice.
Best Features
- The cameras have 1080p FHD resolution
- It offers 96 degrees of FOV
- It is backed by an IP66 water resistance rating
- Voice control and cloud recording features are available
Pros
- The effective price per camera is very low
- Night vision support is great to have
- The set includes 4 cameras
Cons
- The cameras are not wireless
5. AOSU Outdoor Security Cameras
A truly subscription-free security system is one that not only offers you security cameras but also a central hub for control and monitoring. Therefore, we are adding the following option from AOSU to our picks today.
The AOSU Security system comes with two wireless cameras that can be easily installed and connected to your home network for internet access. So, you can live-stream and record footage in true 2K HD quality, with a 166° ultra-wide view and a night vision feature that shows you who’s there even at night in superior clarity. One of the strong suits of these cameras is its strong battery backup. You don’t have to worry about frequent charging for outdoor security cameras, as each camera has a 9200 mAh large capacity battery that can last up to 240 days on one charge, depending on your usage and settings.
Another great feature of this product is the smart alerts, a quicker action feature, which sends you instant notifications for people coming, passing, or staying. There is no monthly fee for the service and works with Alexa, which gives you convenience and security. You can store your footage locally on a 32 GB memory that is built into the product, and all data will be encrypted for secure access. The product is also rated IP67 for weatherproofing and can withstand rain, snow, and shine for extended durability.
Best Features
- The cameras have a 2K QHD resolution
- It offers 166 degrees of FOV
- It is backed by an IP67 water resistance rating
- 7-piece lens for ultra-wide viewing angles
Pros
- High-resolution cameras
- Battery backup is very strong
- Voice-activated functions
Cons
- Memory capacity may not be sufficient for some users
6. WUUK Outdoor Security Cameras
WUUK is yet another brand that specializes in home security solutions with a wide range of options available for you. The following set from WUUK is one of its high-end models with no compromise in quality and performance.
The WUUK 2 Cameras Kit is a high-quality set of cameras that offers smart alerts along with many other essential features. On a single charge, the cameras can operate for about half a year. It is possible since the cameras are powered by a 9600 mAh battery that can last up to 180 days on one charge. You can also connect the cameras to WUUK solar panels for an unlimited free power supply. Another great feature of this product is the no monthly fee feature, which lets you enjoy all functions without a subscription. It also includes the base station, providing 32GB local storage, and all data will be encrypted and stored locally.
The cameras have powerful 2K resolution support and work with your smart home feature, which gives you clarity and convenience. The motion and human detection feature on the other hand can identify people and send you smart alerts based on the activity. The camera also has an integrated spotlight and a color night vision feature, which makes it clear at night. The product is also compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and IFTTT, which means that you can use voice commands or other smart home devices to control the cameras.
Best Features
- The cameras have a 2K QHD resolution
- It offers 135 degrees of FOV
- It is backed by an IP67 water resistance rating
- Extended support for smart home devices
Pros
- 32 GB storage capacity is available
- 9600 mAh battery capacity
- QHD camera resolution that captures all details
Cons
- Two-way audio and siren features are missing
7. EZVIZ Outdoor Security Cameras
EZVIZ is our final brand of choice for our list of the best outdoor security cameras today. Apart from security cameras, EZVIZ also offers a variety of other security products such as doorbell cameras and other necessary accessories for these systems.
Unlike most other options covered so far, EZVIZ Outdoor Security Camera offers dual-lens outdoor cameras so that there is no need for any supplemental lights. The camera uses dual lenses and infrared lights to render vivid and realistic colors, even in the darkest conditions. Another great feature of these cameras is the intelligent motion detection for active defense feature, which uses deep learning algorithms to identify human and vehicle shapes in real time and provide precise motion alerts.
The product is also customized for home security with voice alerts and Alexa and all-weather protection with a durable design, which gives you convenience and protection. You can record custom messages to greet visitors or deter potential trespassers, and store them on a micro SD card. However, the SD card needs to be purchased separately as it is not included in the package. You can also define specific zones in the EZVIZ App to protect your valued spaces. When detection occurs, the camera activates a powerful siren and strobe light, deterring intruders instantly.
Best Features
- The cameras have 1080p FHD resolution
- It offers 180 degrees of FOV
- It is backed by an IP67 water resistance rating
- Active light & siren alarm features included
Pros
- It covers a very wide area
- Dual lens cameras for better image clarity
- Designed to withstand all weather conditions
Cons
- Only a single camera is included in the set
Buying Guide For The Best Outdoor Security Cameras Without Subscription
When selecting the best outdoor security cameras without a subscription, it’s crucial to focus on features that ensure the security system meets your specific needs. Here, we have some critical aspects:
1. Video Resolution
Why it Matters: Video resolution is fundamental in determining the clarity and detail of the footage captured by your security camera. High-resolution cameras produce sharper images, making it easier to identify faces, license plates, and other critical details. This can be especially important in security scenarios where identifying an intruder or a vehicle is necessary for reporting and investigation purposes.
What to Look For
- 1080p Resolution: Considered the standard for good quality video footage. It offers a clear image that is sufficient for most residential security needs.
- 2K and 4K Resolutions: These provide even higher clarity and detail, beneficial for larger properties or areas where detailed surveillance is critical. Keep in mind, higher resolution cameras require more storage space and bandwidth for data transmission.
- Night Vision Capability: Ensure the camera has a strong night vision feature, as resolution drops in low-light conditions. Look for cameras with infrared (IR) night vision to provide clear video footage even in complete darkness.
2. Field of View
Why it Matters: The field of view (FOV) determines the extent of the area that your camera can capture. A wider FOV means your camera can monitor a larger area, potentially reducing the number of cameras you need to cover your property. However, it’s important to strike a balance, as a too wide FOV can lead to distorted edges and lower detail at the periphery of the footage.
What to Look For
- Ranges: Look for cameras offering a FOV between 110° to 180°. This range is ideal for covering wide areas without significant distortion.
- Adjustability: Some cameras offer the ability to adjust the FOV. This feature can be beneficial if you need to focus on specific areas or adjust the coverage based on changes to the monitored environment.
- Lens Quality: Ensure that the camera lens quality is high to avoid any compromise in image clarity, especially at the edges of the FOV.
3. Motion Detection
Why it Matters: Motion detection technology enables your camera to alert you to activity within its field of view, making it a critical component of a security system. This feature can save storage space and bandwidth by only recording when there is movement, and it can also alert you in real-time to potential security breaches.
What to Look For
- Adjustable Sensitivity: Look for cameras that allow you to adjust the sensitivity of the motion detection. This minimizes false alarms caused by pets, moving trees, or other non-threatening movements.
- Customizable Zones: Some cameras offer the ability to set specific zones for motion detection. This feature is invaluable for focusing on high-risk areas and ignoring zones where movement is expected or non-threatening.
- Advanced Detection Features: Consider cameras with person or vehicle detection capabilities. These can differentiate between objects, animals, and humans or vehicles, providing more relevant alerts and reducing false alarms.
4. Connectivity Options
Why it Matters: Connectivity options define how your security camera communicates with your home network and other devices. This impacts not just the ease of installation and setup, but also the reliability of the camera in streaming and uploading video footage. A robust connection ensures that you can access live footage and receive alerts without significant delays.
What to Look For
- Wi-Fi Connectivity: Most cameras use Wi-Fi for wireless connectivity, allowing for relatively easy installation. Look for cameras that support dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5GHz) to ensure a more stable connection and to avoid congestion in the Wi-Fi network.
- Wired Options: Consider cameras with Ethernet port options for a more stable and secure connection, especially in areas where Wi-Fi is unreliable.
- Range: Ensure the camera’s Wi-Fi range is sufficient to maintain a strong connection with your router or any Wi-Fi extender, especially if the camera is to be placed at the outskirts of your property.
5. Smart Features
Why it Matters: Smart features encompass the range of functionalities that allow the camera to interact intelligently with its environment and the user. These include integration with smart home ecosystems, artificial intelligence (AI) driven event detection, and automated responses to security events. These features can significantly enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of your home security system.
What to Look For
- Integration with Smart Home Systems: Look for compatibility with platforms like Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, or Apple HomeKit for seamless integration into your existing smart home ecosystem.
- AI-Powered Detection: Advanced motion detection capabilities that can distinguish between people, vehicles, and animals to reduce false alarms and provide more accurate alerts.
- Geofencing: This allows the camera to arm or disarm based on the location of your smartphone, adding an extra layer of convenience and energy efficiency.
6. Two-Way Audio
Why it Matters: Two-way audio functionality transforms your outdoor security camera from a mere surveillance device into an interactive tool. This feature allows you to listen to and communicate with people near the camera, providing a means to warn off intruders, greet visitors, or simply communicate with family members or pets outdoors.
What to Look For
- Clarity and Quality: Ensure that the audio quality is clear both ways, without significant lag or distortion. This is crucial for understanding and being understood by the person on the other side.
- Noise Cancellation: Look for cameras with noise cancellation features to reduce background noise and enhance voice clarity, especially in busy outdoor environments.
- Ease of Use: The ability to easily initiate two-way communication through a mobile app is essential. The interface should be intuitive, allowing for prompt communication when necessary.
7. Storage Options & Capacity
Why it Matters: Storage is a fundamental aspect of any security camera system, dictating how much video footage can be stored and for how long. Without a subscription, reliance on local storage solutions becomes paramount. The capacity and type of storage determine the extent of footage you can save and directly influence the management of your security recordings.
What to Look For
- Local Storage: Seek cameras that support microSD cards or have built-in internal storage. Consider the maximum storage capacity supported; cameras that accommodate at least 128GB are recommended for adequate video archival.
- Cloud Storage Options: While focusing on cameras without a subscription, some offer a limited free cloud storage option. Evaluate what’s available and whether it aligns with your needs for off-site backup.
- Storage Management Features: Look for features such as loop recording, which overwrites the oldest files when storage is full, and the ability to adjust video quality to manage space more efficiently.
8. Night Vision & Range
Why it Matters: The ability of a security camera to capture clear footage at night or in low-light conditions is critical for around-the-clock surveillance. The effectiveness of a camera’s night vision determines its reliability in identifying subjects and activities during the night.
What to Look For
- Infrared (IR) Night Vision: Most outdoor cameras use IR LEDs to illuminate the scene in front of the camera discreetly. Look for cameras with a substantial number of IR LEDs for better night vision clarity.
- Night Vision Range: The effective range of night vision varies widely among cameras. For comprehensive coverage, opt for models that offer at least 30 feet (approximately 9 meters) of clear night vision range, though some may offer up to 100 feet (approximately 30 meters) or more.
- Color Night Vision: Some advanced cameras offer color night vision, which can provide more detail than traditional black and white IR night vision. This feature can be particularly useful for identifying details like the color of a vehicle or clothing.
9. Water Resistance
Why it Matters: Outdoor security cameras are exposed to various weather conditions, from rain and snow to extreme heat and cold. Water resistance is crucial for ensuring that your cameras can operate effectively and last longer without being damaged by the elements.
What to Look For
- IP Rating: The Ingress Protection (IP) rating indicates a device’s level of protection against solids and liquids. Look for cameras with an IP rating of at least IP65, which means they are dust-tight and protected against water jets from any direction.
- Build Quality: Apart from the IP rating, consider the overall build quality and materials used in the camera. Durable materials can better withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
- Operating Temperature Range: Ensure the camera is rated to operate within the temperature extremes of your local climate. This is particularly important in areas with very cold winters or hot summers.
10. Power Source
Why it Matters: The power source of an outdoor security camera affects where you can install the camera and how stable its operation will be. Cameras can be powered by traditional wired connections, batteries, or even solar energy. Wired cameras generally offer continuous operation without the need to worry about battery life, but they require a power outlet and may need professional installation. Battery-powered and solar-powered cameras offer more flexibility in placement and are easier to install, but they have limitations based on battery life and solar panel efficiency.
What to Look For
- Wired Connections: If you prefer minimal maintenance and continuous operation, look for cameras that can be connected to a permanent power source. Ensure the camera comes with or supports the necessary cabling to reach your power source.
- Battery-Powered: For cameras that operate on batteries, consider the battery life under typical usage conditions. It’s also beneficial if the camera has a low battery alert feature.
- Solar-Powered Options: Some battery-powered cameras can be supplemented with solar panels. If choosing this route, ensure the solar panel is efficiently designed to charge the camera battery under the sunlight conditions typical for your location.
- Power Backup: Regardless of the primary power source, consider cameras with a backup power option to maintain surveillance during power outages.
11. Battery Life
Why it Matters: Battery life is a crucial factor for wireless outdoor security cameras. It determines how often you’ll need to recharge or replace batteries, which can significantly impact the convenience and continuous operation of your security system. Cameras with longer battery life reduce the frequency of maintenance and ensure that your property remains monitored without interruption.
What to Look For
- Battery Life Expectancy: Look for cameras that offer a long battery life, typically several months, under normal usage conditions. The actual battery life can vary based on factors such as the frequency of motion-triggered recordings, live streaming, and weather conditions.
- Rechargeable Batteries: Prefer cameras with rechargeable batteries to minimize the ongoing cost and environmental impact of disposable batteries. Some cameras feature easily removable batteries for convenient charging.
- Power Management Features: Cameras with adjustable motion sensitivity, recording length, and the ability to set active surveillance hours can help extend battery life by reducing unnecessary recording and alerts.
- Battery Status Alerts: Essential for keeping tabs on when it’s time to recharge or replace the battery, ensuring your camera remains operational and your property secure.
Outdoor Security Cameras Without Subscription – FAQs
Ans: Installing an outdoor security camera is not very difficult, but it depends on the type and model of the camera you have. The general procedure to install security cameras usually includes the following steps:
*Choose a location for the camera where it can capture a clear view of the area you want to monitor and where it is not easily accessible.
*Mount the camera on a solid surface using the screws and brackets provided with the camera. You may need to drill holes for the screws and the wires if the camera is wired.
*Connect the camera to a power source, either by plugging it into an outlet or using batteries or solar panels. Make sure the power source is reliable and consistent.
*Connect the camera to your network, either by using a Wi-Fi connection or an Ethernet cable. You may need to use an app or a web browser to set up the camera and adjust the settings.
*Test the camera and make sure it is working properly and recording the footage you want.
Ans: Security cameras without a subscription fee can turn out to be a good option for those who want to save money on the running costs of the system. However, there may also be some drawbacks compared to monthly premium options. Here are some pros and cons of choosing a camera without any subscription fees.
Pros
*You only pay for the equipment and installation, and you don’t have to worry about monthly or yearly fees.
*You store your footage locally on a microSD card or a hard drive, and you don’t have to share it with any service.
*You can choose the storage capacity you want and even create your network for storage and surveillance.
Cons
*You might miss out on some smart features that require cloud processing, such as person detection, face recognition, package detection, or activity zones.
*It is possible you can lose the footage if your local storage device gets damaged or corrupted. Also, *you need to manually backup your footage if you want to keep it for a long time.
*A lot of premium services offer unlimited cloud storage space and automatic deletion of old footage.
Ans: Security cameras without subscription fees may have a higher upfront cost than security cameras with subscription fees, depending on the brand and model. However, they may also save you money in the long run, as you don’t have to pay for cloud storage or other features every month or year. The total cost of ownership of a security camera depends on several factors such as the initial price, the installation cost, the maintenance cost, and the subscription fees which are different for different providers.
Ans: Wireless cameras do not necessarily require an internet connection to work, but they may lose some functionality without it. Wireless cameras can record and store their footage locally on a microSD card or a hard drive, and you can view it later. However, without an internet connection, you won’t be able to access your camera remotely, receive notifications, or use some smart features that require cloud processing.
Ans: Wireless security cameras can be a good option as a long-term choice as they offer a lot of advantages over wired security cameras. Wireless security cameras are easier to install and relocate as they don’t require drilling holes or running cables. They are also more resilient to power outages and can run on batteries or solar panels. You can also integrate with other smart devices and platforms, such as voice assistants, smart hubs, or smart alarms. However, you need to be sure about the build quality and reliability of the camera if you do not wish to repair or replace the cameras any time soon.
Conclusion
Outdoor security cameras are crucial for safety, but subscription models can be a hassle. Luckily, standalone options are available. Here are some top picks without monthly fees:
- ieGeek Outdoor Security Cameras: Affordable and high-quality, with 2K resolution, wide coverage, and features like two-way audio and night vision.
- eufy Security Outdoor Cameras: A complete solution with three cameras, HD recording, long battery life, and weather resistance.
- WUUK Outdoor Security Cameras: Premium quality with 2K resolution, digital zoom, and a base station with ample storage.
These options provide reliable security without ongoing costs.
