Luckily, putting together a security system has become more affordable than ever, with many of them costing under $100. So, why have several people not installed a security camera in their homes, offices, or businesses?

They are scared of doling out the big bucks to pay monthly subscriptions. The thought of that money piling up can turn people off from installing a security camera. However, specific security cameras do not require a subscription before you use them. These cameras allow you to access live footage and recordings that are stored either on free cloud storage or local storage without a monthly fee. 

What Do I Consider When Picking The Best Security Camera Without Subscription?

Storage – Even though some of the listed security cameras might not have access to cloud storage, you can access your recordings on local video storage. Local storage means the data gets stored either on a memory card — which you might have to buy separately — or the storage base that comes with the device. 

Smart AI – Some of these cameras are AI-enabled, meaning they can recognize small animals or people walking past. This limits them from sending you unnecessary alerts.

Live Video Streaming – If you want to see what your pet, nanny, house cleaner, or even loved ones are doing while you are away, you can check in with the live stream via a phone.  The deal is sweeter if your camera has two-way communication that allows you to interact with whoever.

Let’s get into the best security cameras you can use without paying a subscription.

This indoor surveillance camera can be placed anywhere within the home or office. Although small and lightweight, it has excellent video quality, night vision, pan and tilt movement, two-way audio, and a mobile app. 

Google Nest Cam Battery:

Google packed this camera with great features that do not require a subscription. The Nest Cam recognizes people, vehicles, and animals with the sharp video quality. 

The wireless camera can be placed anywhere, and Google estimates the battery to last between 1.5 to seven months, depending on camera settings, temperature, and activity. 

Unfortunately, the Nest Cam lacks an optical zoom. You can only zoom in by pinching the Google Home — if you own it — live view repeatedly.

Wyze Cam v3:

The Wyze Cam v3 is an indoor/outdoor security camera that packs many features such as color night vision, a built-in siren, intelligent motion detection, and local video storage.

While this camera works well with Google Assistant and Alexa voice commands, it has a 12-second limit on free recordings. 

Eufy SoloCam E40:

The Eufy SoloCam E40 is reliable, flexible, and easy-to-install. This intelligent security camera works with both Alexa and Google Assistant.

It is waterproof and wireless so that it can be placed in the great outdoors or indoors. It also locally stores two months’ worth of footage and does not alert you when people or small animals are near the camera.

Other pros include long-lasting battery life, 8GB of internal storage, and sharp imagery.

This wireless video doorbell is a solid deal if you are on a budget. It is easy to install, has a long battery life, and works on wired or battery power.

It also has local video storage and crystal clear two-way communication. 

Arlo Ultra 2:

Although this camera is a bit pricey, it makes up for its features. From offering superior 4K video quality, to voice command integration with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit, it has it all.

It also has an intelligent feature that helps you limit false alerts, a six-month battery life, and a wide-angle option. 

To avoid paying a monthly fee, you’ll have to connect to an Arlo SmartHub which gives you access to local storage.

Kasa Smart 2K Security Camera:

This moderately priced camera has excellent video quality and is integrated with both Alexa and Google Assistant.

The cloud service is optional, so you can use an SD card and save the recordings locally. It also has night vision and two-way audio that allows you to talk with the person on the other side.

Google Nest Doorbell:

If you are a Google loyalist, you must check out this security camera. With its 3:4 video aspect ratio, you can see most parts of your front porch. 

It also has intelligent AI that recognizes people, animals, and vehicles. The Nest Doorbell can either run on batteries or be wired to an existing doorbell, so you do not stress about changing batteries often.

Conclusion

While it is almost impossible to find security systems that do not charge monthly fees, the above are considered the cream of the crop.

So, go ahead, make a choice and purchase that camera today.