10 Of The Best Outdoor Security Cameras With No Monthly Subscription!

Being a homeowner often means taking on the more important demands of your property. For many, this could mean investing in functional pieces, such as a video doorbell or an automatic garage door. While all these are important to have, investing in an outdoor security camera could mean the world of a difference!

For one, an outdoor security camera is an added layer of protection, especially when you’re away from home. You’re essentially empowered to take action whenever necessary, as you have 24/7 surveillance from anywhere in the world.

Getting an outdoor security camera is easier said than done, though. Many homeowners don’t want to invest in recurring subscription fees, and you may be thinking the same. Don’t worry, though—we’ve combed through the best camera in the market and consolidated them here!

We’re here to make your purchase decision easy and fun, ensuring that you do not incur extra costs along the way. Home security doesn’t have to be expensive, so here are our top outdoor camera picks, along with some helpful information that can aid your purchase:

How To Get A Security Camera Without Paying A Monthly Subscription

The latest in security cameras connect with existing home automation systems, which allow you to know exactly when an intruder is in your premises. Simply put, you get notified through your mobile devices—but it comes at a cost.

Apart from the initial investment of the actual outdoor camera, you will need to subscribe to a monthly payment plan to enjoy recording and storage capabilities in the cloud. Thankfully, there are ways to navigate around these hefty prices, including investing in cameras that don’t require you subscriptions in the first place! You only need a local storage, for instance, such as a USB.

Things To Note Before Buying

Image Quality

One of the first aspects to consider before buying any security camera is the quality of videos and images it captures. Typically, a video resolution of 1080p or higher will allow you to get enough detail in the footage.

Storage

Some home security systems with no subscription allow you to store your footage on the cloud without a monthly fee. However, others will require local storage through memory cards or hard drives.

Connectivity

Many of the top-rated outdoor security cameras that don’t require a subscription can connect to Wi-Fi, allowing you to view footage remotely. Some even work well with smart home hubs like Google Home or Amazon Alexa for voice control.

Power Source

It’s best to think about the power source before buying a home camera system. Consider whether you would want a battery-operated camera or one that you can hardwire to your home for continuous operations.

Durability And Weather Resistance

Unlike indoor home security cameras, outdoor devices need to have a certain level of protection against the elements to be viable for use. You’ll have to buy ones that can resist rain and dust well.

Other Useful Features

Many top-rated home camera systems have a wealth of useful features that enhance convenience and protection. They may have motion sensors, IR night vision, two-way audio, lights, and more.

Top Quality Outdoor Security Camera With Long Battery Life

If you want to invest in longevity, the Blink Outdoor Camera is the best option for you. Apart from smart features, you’ll also enjoy a whopping 2-year battery life!

Blink Outdoor

  • Temperature Monitoring

  • Can Add Thumb Drive For Extra Local Storage

Image Quality

1080p HD

  Weatherproof?

Yes

Night Vision?

Yes

Power Source

2 AA Lithium Batteries

  Connectivity

Amazon Alexa, Mobile App

Storage

Free 30-Day Trial For Cloud Storage, Local Storage Through Blink Sync Module 2 Hub

PROS

  • Easy To Set Up

  • 2-Year Battery Life

  • Motion Detection With Alerts

  • 2-Way Audio

  • Operating Temperatures -4 To 113° F

  • Subscription After 30-Day Cloud Storage Trial Is Optional

  • No Hub RequiredNew List Item

CONS

  • You May Need To Buy 2 AA Batteries To Power This Device

  • Blink Sync Module 2 Hub Is Sold Separately And Is Necessary For Local Storage

Best No-Subscription Security Floodlight Camera

If you want a security floodlight camera, the Home Zone Security Floodlight Camera is for you. It comes with a siren and 2,600 Lumens output, keeping your loved ones safe during emergencies. 

Home Zone Security Floodlight Camera

  • Flood Light With 2,600 Lumens Output

  • 110dB Siren

  • In-App 911 Dialing Feature

Image Quality

1080p HD

  Weatherproof?

Yes

Night Vision?

Yes

Power Source

Hardwired

  Connectivity

Amazon Alexa, Mobile App

Storage

128GB MicroSD Card

PROS

  • 270° Motion Detection Angle

  • 150° Viewing Angle For Wide Coverage

  • 128GB Micro SD Card Included

  • Scheduling Functions

  • No Hub Required

CONS

  • Requires Junction Box (Not Included) And Hardwire Setup

  • Not Compatible With Samsung SmartThings

  • Some Customers Report That Motion Sensor Is Too Sensitive At Times

Best Outdoor Security Camera With Bright LED Light

Are you a fan of bright LED lights? The SENS8 Outdoor Camera is the best choice, as its powerful light feature can detect motion—and deter potential intruders. 

SENS8 Outdoor Camera with Light

  • Can Activate Strong Light When It Detects Motion To Deter Intruders

Image Quality

1080p HD

  Weatherproof?

Yes

Night Vision?

Yes

Power Source

  Plug-In Cord

  Connectivity

IFTTT, Mobile App

Storage

  8GB Built-In Memory, Cloud Storage To Google Drive Or Dropbox

PROS

  • 140° Viewing Angle

  • 95 dB Siren

  • Customizable Motion Detection To Reduce False Alarms

  • LED Light Has Adjustable Brightness

  • 2-Way Audio

  • Cloud Storage To Google Drive Or Dropbox

  • No Hub Required

CONS

  • Not Hardwired And Needs A Plug-In Outlet For Power

Best Solar WiFi Camera

If you’re looking for an environmentally-frienldy alternative, the Reolink Solar WiFi Camera is the best on the market. You’ll enjoy a built-in rechargeable battery and solar panel!

Solar WiFi Camera Security Outdoor

  • Has A Solar Panel For Continuous Power

Image Quality

1080p HD

  Weatherproof?

Yes

Night Vision?

Yes

Power Source

Built-In Rechargeable Battery And Solar Panel

  Connectivity

Amazon Alexa, Mobile App

Storage

128GB SD Card, 1GB Reolink Cloud Storage

PROS

  • CMOS Sensor For Increased Sensitivity At Night

  • 6X Digital Zoom

  • 100° Motion Detecting Angle

  • Easy-To-Use App Interface

  • No Need To Buy Batteries

  • No Hub Required

CONS

  • Lacks Support For Google Home

Best Security Camera For Guarding Multiple Areas

If you want an all-around device, the eufyCam 2 Wireless Home Security Camera System can cover all areas of your home. It’s also compatible with your home security system!

eufy Security

  • Comes In A Pack Of 4 Cameras

  • Human And Face Detection AI To Reduce False Alerts

  • Encrypted Footage For Data Security

Image Quality

1080p HD

  Weatherproof?

Yes

Night Vision?

Yes

Power Source

Built-In Rechargeable Battery

  Connectivity

Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, Mobile App

Storage

16GB Embedded Multi-Media Card (EMMC)

PROS

  • 1 Year Battery Life

  • Sony Sensor For Detailed Footage In Low-Light Settings

  • IP67 Weatherproof Rating, Resistant To Dust And Can Withstand Being 

  • Temporarily Submerged In Water

  • Compatible With Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant, And Amazon Alexa

  • 2-Way Audio

  • Optional Cloud Storage

CONS

  • Mount Could Use Improvements

  • Relatively Expensive

Best Wired Outdoor Security Camera

If you want a little more traditional camera, invest in the eufy Security Solo OutdoorCam C24. Although wired, you don’t have to sacrifice quality!

eufy Security Solo OutdoorCam C24

  • Magnetic Mount

  • 20-Foot Cable Included

  • Human And Face Detection AI To Reduce False Alerts

Image Quality

2K

  Weatherproof?

Yes

Night Vision?

Yes

Power Source

Hardwired

  Connectivity

Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, Mobile App

Storage

32GB MicroSD Card

PROS

  • Built-In Spotlight For Color Footage When It Detects Motion At Night

  • IP67 Weatherproof Rating, Resistant To Dust And Can Withstand Being Temporarily Submerged In Water

  • 2K Resolution For More Detailed Videos

  • Comes With 32GB MicroSD Card

  • 130° Field Of View

CONS

  • Lacks Support For Apple HomeKit

  • Wired Installation

Best 2-Pack Wireless Camera With Hub

If you’re looking for an outdoor camera with hub, the Home Zone Security Wireless Battery Camera offers the best. It also comes with 2x 2600 mAh lithium-ion batteries that will last you a long time. 

Home Zone Security Wireless Battery Camera

  • Comes In A Pack Of 2 Cameras

  • Comes With Its Own Hub

Image Quality

  1080p HD

  Weatherproof?

Yes

Night Vision?

Yes

Power Source

  2x 2600 mAh Lithium-Ion Batteries Per Camera

  Connectivity

Amazon Alexa, Mobile App

Storage

64GB MicroSD Card

PROS

  • 120° Field Of View

  • 64GB MicroSD Card Included

  • Hub Can Connect To Four Cameras Simultaneously

  • Motion Detection

  • Works Well Without Cloud Subscription

CONS

  • No Google Home Or Apple HomeKit Support

Best Security System With 1TB Storage

For good local storage, the XMARTO Wireless Home Security Camera System offers a 1TB hard drive. You never have to worry about running out of space!

XMARTO 8CH 2K HD

  • Comes With 1TB Hard Drive For Local Memory Storage

  • Comes In A Pack Of 4 Wireless Cameras

  • NVR Has Its Own Wi-Fi Router

Image Quality

2K

  Weatherproof?

Yes

Night Vision?

Yes

Power Source

Plug-In Cord

  Connectivity

Amazon Alexa, Mobile App

Storage

1TB Built-In Hard Drive

PROS

  • 2K Resolution For More Detailed Videos

  • App Is Available For iOS, Android, PC, Mac, And Amazon Alexa

  • Network Video Recorder (NVR) Can Connect Up To 8 Cameras

  • Works Without Internet

  • 2-Way Audio

  • Motion Detection With Alerts

CONS

  • NVR And Cameras Need To Be Plugged In For Power

  • Motion Detection May Be Too Sensitive

Best Wireless Outdoor Security Camera On A Budget

If you’re on a budget, consider ZEEPORTE Outdoor Security Camera. Cheaper doesn’t always mean lesser quality!

Security Camera Outdoor

  • Auto-Switches To Night Vision Mode In Low-Light Settings

Image Quality

1080p HD

  Weatherproof?

Yes

Night Vision?

Yes

Power Source

Built-In Rechargeable Battery

  Connectivity

Amazon Alexa, Mobile App

Storage

Up To 128GB MicroSD Card

PROS

  • 2-Way Audio

  • Motion Detection With Alerts

  • Operating Temperatures -4°F To 122°F

  • Up To 6 Months Battery Life

  • Relatively More Affordable Than Other Options

  • No Hub Required

CONS

  • MicroSD Card Not Included

  • No Google Home Or Apple HomeKit Support

Best Compact Security Camera

SOLIOM Outdoor Security Camera

Security Camera Outdoor Wireless

  • Optional Cloud Storage After 1 Month

Image Quality

1080p HD

  Weatherproof?

Yes

Night Vision?

Yes

Power Source

  2 Lithium Polymer Batteries

  Connectivity

Mobile App

Storage

Up To 128GB MicroSD Card, Cloud Storage For 1 Month

PROS

  • Scheduled Working Times

  • IP67 Weatherproof Rating, Resistant To Dust And Can Withstand Being 

  • Temporarily Submerged In Water

  • Up To 6 Months Battery Life

  • Motion Detection With Alerts

  • 2-Way Audio

  • Operating Temperatures -4 To 113 °F

  • No Hub Required

CONS

  • Does Not Work With Amazon Alexa, Google Home, And Other Smart Home Hubs

Google Home-Compatible Outdoor Security Camera

If you have Google Home, the best choice is always the TOUCAN Wireless Security Camera. It comes with an encrypted cloud storage, making sure that your files stay safe and sound.

TOUCAN Wireless Indoor/Outdoor Battery Powered Security Camera

  • Comes In A Pack Of 3 Cameras

  • Free Encrypted Cloud Storage

Image Quality

1080p HD

  Weatherproof?

Yes

Night Vision?

Yes

Power Source

Built-In Rechargeable 6500mAh Lithium Ion Battery

  Connectivity

Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Mobile App

Storage

Encrypted Cloud Storage

PROS

  • Tolerates Temperatures Between 14°F And 122°F

  • Motion Detection With Alerts

  • No Hub Required

  • 131° Field Of View

  • 2-Way Audio

  • Compatible With Android And iOS Smart Mobile Phones

CONS

  • No Options For Local Storage

In Depth Buyers Guide

Before you set your sights on any outdoor security camera systems, it is crucial to remember that these devices are often significant investments. Even though they may not require monthly payments, you may still have to spend hundreds of dollars for these gadgets. Because of this, you will have to consider a plethora of aspects before you make your purchase. Let’s dive into some of the essential factors you will have to think about.

Memory Storage

No matter how detailed your footage is or how many features your outdoor security camera has, these will not be worth it if you cannot reliably store your data. Memory storage is one of the most crucial aspects you will have to consider before you buy your device. Generally, 32GB and above is recommended for these gadgets — the higher, the better.

Local vs. Cloud Storage: Which One Is Better?

Aside from the memory space itself, you also have to think about where the videos and images will be stored. Will it be local storage (EMMC or SD cards), or will it be uploaded to the cloud? There are significant advantages to either of these options.

Outdoor security cameras that use local memory storage, such as EMMC, hard drives, or SD cards, are generally more secure because they store footage within the device only. As a result, hackers and other cybercriminals cannot access them unless they physically take those devices. If you are concerned about privacy and data security, then you may want to invest in gadgets that locally store the videos.

Although local storage may generally be better in terms of data privacy, that isn’t to say that cloud storage does not have its merits. An inconvenient aspect of local storage is that it can be a hassle to review your footage. Typically, you will have to take out the memory card and connect it to a computer to export your files. Cloud storage takes care of that issue.

Some home security cameras are more versatile, and they allow you to save your photos and videos both locally and on the cloud, whichever you prefer.

Can You Get Cloud Storage Without Cloud Subscription?

One of the reasons many homeowners choose to invest in home security camera systems with paid subscriptions is cloud storage. It allows you to view your footage anytime and anywhere because the data is stored on the internet. You can access your files remotely without manually removing the memory card and connecting it to your computer. 

In cloud storage, your files are secured on an internet platform, such as Google Drive, Dropbox, or a proprietary site. Usually, you’ll have to pay for these services, but some security camera systems allow you to save footage on the cloud even without a subscription! 

Motion Detectors

Modern outdoor security camera systems share some standard features because of their sheer importance, and one such aspect is motion detection. Almost all top-rated surveillance cameras nowadays have motion detectors built-in—but what makes this attribute essential, anyway?

Motion detectors are electronic components of a security camera that use sensors to detect movements. They are essential because they can tell you when there is unusual movement in your property. When this happens, your device can send an alert through your mobile app, text, or email so that you can take action right away. In some cases, they may even activate the lights or sound an alarm to deter would-be intruders.

Some home security camera models without subscriptions even offer advanced AI to reduce false alarms. They may have human and face detection algorithms that only send you alerts when the device detects a person. This means you will not be notified if the camera only senses a falling leaf or a flying insect.

Ease of Installation

An often-overlooked yet crucial aspect of security cameras is how easy they are to install. While this is usually not a feature that can make or break the quality of the product, it is still an important thing to consider because it will affect its convenience.

A lot of the best security cameras are no more difficult to install than a hanging portrait, and you can activate them right away after you set them up. They might include screws, magnetic mounts, or strong adhesives that you can use to anchor the devices to your walls. You can usually control their height and angles to ensure that you’re capturing the right areas on your property.

Should You Get Wired or Wireless Outdoor Security Cameras?

What does it mean when you get a wireless outdoor security camera? While it can sound confusing, a wireless camera essentially means you’re relying on Wi-Fi technology—or the internet, in general—for the camera to work. It doesn’t rely on physical wires to transmit data from one device to another. 

Wired security cameras, on the other hand, come with wires that can be a bit confusing to work with. You’ll likely need professional installation, as well as proper labeling to make sure the wires don’t get damaged overtime. 

Conclusion

Looking for the right outdoor security camera—especially one with no monthly subscription—can seem like a chore. But hopefully with this comprehensive guide, you now have a better sense of direction when adding an extra layer of security for your home. Make sure to remember the features we’ve listed above, and why each play a role in your purchase decision. 

On our end, the outdoor security cameras bring undeniable value, and especially so when you know how to invest in the right one. You gain not only value for money, but the peace of mind your family deserves.

If you are ready to enhance your home’s security and protection, here is a quick recap of our top picks for the best outdoor security cameras with no monthly subscription. Click on the links and buy the one that best suits your needs:

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