Video doorbell cameras let you watch your doorstep live, giving you peace of mind by sending video and motion alerts to your phone. Now, there are options available without monthly recurring fees. They’re great for people who travel a lot or want to watch their home from a distance, offering both security and cost-effectiveness.
When choosing a video doorbell camera, consider these key factors:
- Storage: Pick cameras with SD card slots for private storage and easy access to footage.
- Video Quality: Select cameras with high resolution, like 2K or 4K, for clear images. Also, prioritize cameras with High Dynamic Range (HDR) and at least 1080p resolution.
- Field of View: Choose cameras with broad viewing angles, like 160 degrees horizontally and 90 degrees vertically. This reduces blind spots around your property and provides better coverage.
Refer to this comprehensive “Buying Guide” to make an informed decision when purchasing a video doorbell camera without a subscription.
Best Video Doorbell Without Subscription Table
| Video Doorbell | Storage | Video Quality | Field of View | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| XTU Video Doorbell Without Subscription | up to 128G Micro SD | 1080P HD | 166° | Check On Amazon |
| ieGeek Video Doorbell Without Subscription | support 2GB-128 GB | 2K | 130° | Check On Amazon |
| eufy Video Doorbell Without Subscription | - | 2K | - | Check On Amazon |
| AOSU Video Doorbell Without Subscription | built-in 8G memory | 2K | 166° | Check On Amazon |
| MUBVIEW Video Doorbell Without Subscription | up to 128G Micro SD | 2K | 145° | Check On Amazon |
| WUUK Video Doorbell Without Subscription | 32G Local | 2K | 133° | Check On Amazon |
| REOLINK Video Doorbell Without Subscription | Up to 256GB microSD Card Slot | 5MP HD | 180º | Check On Amazon |
Best Video Doorbell Without Subscription Reviews
1. XTU Video Doorbell Without Subscription
If you are planning to increase the security levels in your home, you are better off with a product that thousands of users have installed in their home. For that, this video doorbell from XTU will be a perfect choice.
The XTU WiFi Video Doorbell Camera is our 1st pick for the best video doorbell unit that comes without a subscription fee. This is a 100% wireless video doorbell device with FHD 1080p camera to capture high-quality footage and offers clear 2-way communication thanks to an external speaker shipped in the package. You can easily connect the XTU WiFi Video Doorbell Camera with your 2.4 GHz wireless network and rely on its real-time update feature that pushes notifications directly to your smartphone.
Apart from one of the most popular options, the XTU WiFi Video Doorbell Camera is also a highly reliable choice as you will get an unconditional lifetime warranty on the kit. And to avoid problems caused by environmental factors, the XTU WiFi Video Doorbell Camera offers IP65 weather resistance. The outdoor unit also has a PIR sensor along with a camera for motion detection to save battery. The camera itself offers up to 188 degrees of field of view to cover a wide area so that there are no blind spots in front of your door.
Best Features
- It has wireless connectivity option
- Up to 166 degrees camera field of view
- Most reliable option for a video doorbell
- External speaker included for better 2-way communication
Pros
- Most popular option for a video doorbell camera
- Night vision and motion sensors are available
- Unconditional lifetime warranty
Cons
- Camera quality is better with other options
2. ieGeek Video Doorbell Without Subscription
We are bringing a rather well-known brand option to our list called ieGeek which is famous for security-focused home appliances. This video doorbell camera from ieGeek is actually an upgraded version of a previous design with some added features.
The ieGeek Wireless Doorbell Camera is yet another budget choice available on our list of the best video doorbell service that works without a subscription plan. It features a standard FHD 1080p camera for high-quality video recording and offers up to 166 degrees wide viewing angles. It also has built-in light sensors that can detect change in environmental light and automatically enable night mode. The night mode, on the other hand, is powered by IR technology for decent night vision performance.
For motion sensors, the ieGeek Wireless Doorbell Camera brings PIR motion sensing feature so that you only get notifications when there is actually someone present at your door. It also ships with an external speaker that you can keep in your living room and get high-fidelity 2-way communication from the video doorbell. There are 2 built-in rechargeable batteries present inside the ieGeek Wireless Doorbell Camera for a reliable battery backup. It also ships with a 32 GB SD card so that you can locally store the recorded footage.
Best Features
- It has wireless connectivity option
- Up to 166 degrees camera field of view
- 100% wireless installation is possible
- 2 built-in batteries for a longer performance
Pros
- Up to 120 days of battery backup is available
- PIR motion sensors to prevent false alerts
- Ships with 32 GB of onboard storage
Cons
- Night vision range is limited to 16 feet
3. eufy Video Doorbell Without Subscription
eufy is also one of the brands on the market that has a variety of options available for smart home appliances. This brand develops floodlight cameras, battery cameras, and video doorbells.
The eufy Security video doorbell is yet another option available on the market that features a great set of features for a reasonable price. And unlike many other video doorbell cameras, it has a very compact form factor, and it pushes the video feed directly to the main unit and with that, to your smartphone. The camera of the eufy Security video doorbell has 2k 1440p resolution, and you will get up to 180 days of battery backup on this video doorbell.
All of these features of the eufy Security video doorbell are available at no additional cost apart from what you are paying for the device itself. If you are not interested in a completely wireless power supply, you can also connect a power cable to the device and stop worrying about battery replacements. The camera captures the footage in 4:3 aspect ratio and offers up to 106 degrees of field of view. The motion sensors of the eufy Security video doorbell also have advanced motion detection technology that ensures notification only if a human figure is detected.
Best Features
- It has wired/wireless connectivity option
- Up to 106 degrees camera field of view
- Advanced motion detection to avoid false alarms
- Up to 180 days of battery backup
Pros
- It has built-in storage capacity of 16 GB
- Long battery life with alternative wired connectivity option
- Comact design and supports smart speaker implementation
Cons
- Slightly more expensive than other options
4. AOSU Video Doorbell Without Subscription
The one feature that most video doorbells lack is the high capture quality, or a high-quality camera lens. However, this option from AOSU makes sure that you get the best possible image quality from your video doorbell camera.
The AOSU Doorbell Camera Wireless is one of the premium options that we have for you today that brings almost all of the features of a subscription-based video doorbell to a subscription-free option. First of all, it houses a 5 MP UHD camera, offering 4K video capture quality delivered directly to your smartphone. It makes the capture quality nearly 40% better than its alternatives. With such high resolution, you will get a detailed view from the camera in well-lit as well as dark conditions.
On top of that, the AOSU Doorbell Camera Wireless also features a triple motion detection feature that completely eliminates the possibility of false alerts. It is possible with the advanced radar and PIR motion sensors installed inside the unit. Coming to the storage capacity, the AOSU Doorbell Camera Wireless stores up to 60 days of data with the loop recording feature. With that, it will automatically rewrite 60 days old data with the latest footage.
Best Features
- It has wireless connectivity option
- Up to 166 degrees camera field of view
- Offers up to 180 days of battery life on a single charge
- Compatible with multiple smart home ecosystems
Pros
- Battery capacity is pretty good
- Up to 60 days of footage is stored
- Advanced radar and PIR motion sensors
Cons
- Slightly more expensive than other options
5. MUBVIEW Video Doorbell Without Subscription
MUBVIEW is bringing yet another highly efficient video doorbell to your list that makes it possible to have an actual conversation with the visitor without having to open the door. MUBVIEW also has a few other options for security cameras as well as doorbell cameras.
The MUBVIEW Wireless Doorbell Camera is yet another option from our list that has a built-in rechargeable battery and offers the advantage of low power consumption to extend the battery life. As for connectivity, you can directly pair the device to your 2.4 GHz wireless network and you are good to go. Similar to our last pick, the MUBVIEW Wireless Doorbell Camera also features PIR motion detection feature so that it would only pick up motion from a human figure and avoid false alarms.
As for 2-way communication, this is one of the few options that ships with an external speaker that provides clarity of audio transmission and enables you to have a communication without any flaws. You can also record up to 10 seconds long messages that will be played to the visitor in case you are not able to answer the door. As for the quality of the camera, the MUBVIEW Wireless Doorbell Camera offers 2K resolution capture and covers up to 145 degrees area in front of the lens.
Best Features
- It has wireless connectivity option
- Up to 145 degrees camera field of view
- 2K capture resolution
- Super night vision feature with 33 feet range
Pros
- Best option for night vision functionality
- High-quality CMOS camera sensor
- Allows up to 10 seconds long pre-recorded message playback
Cons
- Battery life is comparatively shorter than other video doorbells
6. WUUK Video Doorbell Without Subscription
WUUK, a leading brand in smart home security, offers a 2K Doorbell Camera, simplifying your home’s safety.
This nifty gadget provides excellent coverage for your house. Its Homebase has 32GB of memory, allowing it to support up to 8 WUUK cameras seamlessly. And you don’t have to pay extra for storing your videos because everything stays safe right at home.
Make your home extra safe with the WUUK 2K Doorbell Camera. It’s got smart sensors that can tell if someone’s coming near your door and it’ll let you know right away. You can power it with batteries that last for 6 months or just plug it in. Setting it up is no big deal, and you can connect it to your other smart home gadgets like Alexa or Google.
Best Features
- Complete coverage with Homebase support
- Advanced radar and PIR motion sensors
- Dual power options for flexibility
- Extensive 133.4 degrees viewing angle
- Reliable night vision up to 32.8 feet
- Customizable motion detection zones
- Time-coded events playback for convenience
Pros
- Easy installation process.
- Reliable human detection capabilities.
- Compatible with major smart home platforms.
Cons
- Some users experienced connectivity issues.
7. REOLINK Video Doorbell Without Subscription
Reolink is a well-known brand for its smart home devices like floodlight cameras, battery cameras, and video doorbells.
The Reolink Doorbell WiFi Camera is a great choice in the market, offering many features at an affordable price. It’s compact and sends video directly to your phone. With a high-quality camera, it gives clear images, and its battery lasts a long time.
One cool thing about the Reolink Doorbell WiFi Camera is that it’s cost-effective – you don’t pay extra for all these features. And if you prefer, you can connect it to power instead of using batteries. The camera captures footage in a square shape and has a wide view. Plus, it only sends notifications when it sees a person, not just anything moving.
Best Features
- Crystal clear 5MP Super HD resolution
- Waterproof design for all weather conditions
- Expansive 180° wide viewing angle
- Convenient chime included for alerts
- Two-way audio for easy communication
- Person detection for accurate alerts
- Local storage options for added security
- Easy setup with wall mounting
- Customizable motion detection zones
- Privacy protection with encrypted data
Pros
- Exceptional video quality even in low light.
- Reliable dual-band WiFi connectivity.
- Wide viewing angle for comprehensive coverage.
- Easy installation with included accessories.
Cons
- Chime volume may be inconsistent for some users.
Key Features to Look Out for When buying video doorbell cameras without subscription
When venturing into the realm of video doorbell cameras without subscription, several key features stand out as essential considerations. Each feature plays a crucial role in ensuring your security setup meets your needs without recurring fees. Let’s delve into each feature to understand its significance and what to look for when making your purchase:
1. Local Storage Capability
Why it Matters: Local storage provides autonomy from cloud subscriptions, ensuring your footage remains accessible without monthly fees.
What to Look For: Opt for models with SD card slots, allowing you to save recordings locally. Ensure compatibility with sufficient storage capacity for your needs.
2. Video Quality
Why it Matters: High-resolution video ensures clear, detailed footage, crucial for identifying individuals and incidents.
What to Look For: Seek cameras with 2k or 4k resolution, or at least 1080p HD, to capture crisp images. Pay attention to aspects like color accuracy and clarity in varying lighting conditions.
3. Field of View
Why it Matters: A wider field of view increases coverage, reducing blind spots and enhancing surveillance effectiveness.
What to Look For: Look for cameras with wide horizontal and vertical angles, providing comprehensive coverage of your entryway. A minimum of 160 degrees horizontally is recommended.
4. Motion Detection and Alerts
Why it Matters: Motion detection triggers alerts for potential intruders or visitors, enhancing security and convenience.
What to Look For: Prioritize cameras with customizable motion detection zones and sensitivity levels to reduce false alarms. Ensure timely notifications via email, push notifications, or SMS.
5. Night Vision
Why it Matters: Night vision enables surveillance even in low-light or nighttime conditions, extending security coverage around the clock.
What to Look For: Choose cameras with infrared LEDs or other advanced night vision technology for clear footage in complete darkness. Verify the effective range and clarity of night vision capabilities.
6. Audio Features
Why it Matters: Two-way audio allows communication with visitors or deterrence of potential intruders, enhancing security and convenience.
What to Look For: Select cameras with built-in microphones and speakers for clear, distortion-free audio transmission. Consider echo cancellation and noise reduction features for optimal communication clarity.
7. Smart Home Integration and Remote Access
Why it Matters: Integration with smart home ecosystems and remote access via mobile devices offer convenience and seamless integration into existing setups.
What to Look For: Ensure compatibility with popular smart home platforms like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit for streamlined control. Opt for intuitive mobile apps with user-friendly interfaces for remote monitoring and management.
8. App Support
Why it Matters: A well-designed mobile app facilitates easy setup, configuration, and access to camera feeds and settings.
What to Look For: Prioritize cameras with dedicated apps that offer robust features, such as live streaming, playback, and settings customization. Check user reviews for app reliability and performance across various devices.
9. Weatherproof Rating
Why it Matters: Outdoor cameras must withstand harsh weather conditions to ensure long-term durability and reliable performance.
What to Look For: Look for cameras with an IP65 or IP66 weatherproof rating, indicating resistance to dust, water, and extreme temperatures. Verify operating temperature ranges for compatibility with your climate.
10. Connectivity Technology
Why it Matters: Stable and secure connectivity is essential for seamless operation and remote access to camera feeds.
What to Look For: Choose cameras with reliable Wi-Fi connectivity, preferably supporting dual-band (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) for optimal performance. Consider models with Ethernet ports for wired connections, enhancing stability in areas with weak Wi-Fi signals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ans: There are a lot of video doorbell options available out there that do not come with secured housing and can easily be stolen. But, there aren’t enough cases of a stolen video doorbell to consider it a possibility. In fact, installing a video doorbell has proven to actually reduce stealing incidents such as theft of shipments left at your doorstep. And in any case, the doorbell will surely capture the footage of the culprit before the doorbell is disconnected from the system and you will be alerted.
Ans: Onboard storage service used to be an exclusive feature for video doorbell services that offered a premium subscription plan. But now, you will get the same with even those options that do not require a subscription. As for the length of footage saved on the memory, it depends upon the total memory capacity of the device. Some devices also offer an SD card slot so that you can increase the stored video footage length. But, keep in mind that most devices offer limitations on the capacity of the Sd card that you are putting in for storage.
Ans: Unlike before, there aren’t many differences left between a video doorbell service with or without a subscription. You will get almost the same set of features, equally good camera quality, and a high-resolution display unit. However, video doorbells that need a subscription plan tend to be a bit cheaper, reducing the initial cost. Some options also offer dedicated cloud storage services to store the recorded footage without needing a dedicated local media storage device for safekeeping.
Conclusion
While many video doorbells offer security, they often come with monthly subscription fees. Here are three top choices that deliver peace of mind without the ongoing cost:
- eufy Video Doorbell Without Subscription: This doorbell boasts an impressive 180-day battery life and utilizes local storage on a built-in drive, eliminating cloud storage fees. Its 2K resolution ensures clear footage, and motion-activated alerts keep you informed.
- WUUK Video Doorbell Without Subscription: Featuring local storage on a 32GB SD card, this doorbell empowers you to manage your recordings without relying on cloud services. With human detection and compatibility with smart assistants like Alexa, it provides a feature-rich experience minus the subscription burden.
These are just a few of the subscription-free video doorbells available. Consider your budget, desired features, and storage preferences when making your choice.
