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Do you hate spending hundreds on great security cameras only to find out you must pay monthly fees to use them? While thats a common theme among cameras, there are many security cameras without subscriptions to help you save money.

Good to know: security cameras can work as part of your smart home network. Learn how to set up an entire smart home for under $1000.

When selecting an outdoor security camera, you have many options to consider. Weve outlined the features, pros, and cons of these top subscription-free outdoor security cameras for you.

Price: $119.99

The Reolink Argus 3 Pro features a battery that lasts up to four months, but with the optional solar panel, youll never have to take it down to charge it. This camera includes everything from vehicle alerts to color night vision all without a subscription. Although you only get one week of cloud storage for free, you can store your video footage locally on an SD card (up to 128 GB).

Price: $129.99

The eufy Security SoloCam E40 makes the list of top security cameras without a subscription, thanks to the onboard storage and encryption. The 8 GB of local storage supports up to two months of recordings. The battery lasts for up to four months before needing to be charged. The best part is that you dont get false alerts, thanks to human and face detection.

If you want two cameras that work with eufys Homebase system, try the eufyCam 2C 2-Cam Kit that also includes a Homebase for $239.99. Its more expensive, but you get 16 GB of local storage and up to 180 days of battery per charge.

Also helpful: keep tabs on your home with one of these smart doorbells.

Price: $599.99

The Arlo Ultra 2 Spotlight Camera is an expensive option, but its an entire wireless security camera system. It comes with two cameras and the Arlo Smart Hub. The hub connects cameras to the network and local storage on an SD card. Crisp 4K video ensures that you dont miss any details. It also has an impressive 180-degree view.

Price: $79.99

The Zumimall Solar-Powered Outdoor Security Camera is the most budget-friendly outdoor camera on this list. Plus, it comes with a small solar panel to provide power 24/7/365. You can also recharge the battery manually if you prefer. If you dont need the solar panel, the cameras just $57.99. With color night vision and 2K video, its easy to see whats happening around you. Plus, you can set it to detect human motion to prevent false alerts.

FYI: when setting up your smart home, use wired or wireless devices.

You also have many considerations when choosing indoor security cameras. Weve outlined the pros and cons of the top subscription-free indoor camera options so that you can pick one that suits your needs.

Price: $75.99

The eufy Security Solo IndoorCam C24 is one of the best indoor security cameras without a subscription. The set comes with two cameras, making it incredibly affordable. You get 2K video and two-way audio, and its compatible with HomeKit. Everything is stored locally via SD cards, making your information more private.

Price: $34.99

The Kasa Indoor Pan/Tilt Smart Security Camera is a budget-friendly model that doesnt skimp on features. Its made for baby and pet monitoring, but the pan/tilt feature also makes it easy to check on broader areas of a room. Events are stored locally on an SD card (up to 128 GB) or premium cloud storage, which requires a subscription. However, all activity notifications are included for free.

If you need support for SD cards up to 256 GB, try the Kasa EC71. Its almost identical in features but supports larger SD cards.

Tip: you can use Arduino to program a DIY smart home.

Price: $42

The Wyze Cam v3 is a weatherproof indoor-outdoor security camera. While theres no free cloud storage, an SD card allows you to use the camera without a subscription. Enjoy both motion and sound alerts, along with full-color night vision. You can even adjust the angle (physically) to see more of what you need.

Price: $79.99

The Blink Indoor camera is entirely wireless. Batteries can last up to two years before you need to change them. Get alerted instantly whenever motion is detected. With up to 1080p HD video and night vision, youll never miss a thing. You will need the Blink Add-On Sync Module 2 to store videos locally and avoid a subscription. However, one module supports up to 10 Blink cameras.

If you dont need a battery-powered camera, try the cheaper Blink Mini.

Also helpful: with SmartThings and Google Home, you can create a hands-free smart home.

If you have an old phone you no longer use, turn it into an indoor security camera for free. The Alfred app is available for both iOS and Android devices. Install it on both your current and old phones. Set up your old phone wherever you want to monitor an area. Your current phone can check in at any time, just as you would with any other security camera.

While many features are accessible in the app, some are premium only. However, it works well without a subscription.

Unless youre installing your security camera in a hard-to-reach area, youll likely be able to install all of these independently. All outdoor cameras are battery-powered, so you dont have to run wires. The indoor cameras must be plugged in to an outlet, except for the Blink Indoor camera.

All of the security cameras on this list are wireless. As long as you have a Wi-Fi router, you can connect them by following the prompts in the cameras mobile app.

However, some cameras only work on 2.4 GHz networks, while others work on both 2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz. Ensure your router supports both to avoid any connection issues.

Most of the cameras on this list offer free and subscription options. The free option in some cameras doesnt allow you to customize the alerts. Instead of seeing humans, vehicles, or pets only, youll get notified for every motion instance. Its a trade-off to avoid a costly subscription to go along with the camera.

Image credit: Unsplash

Crystal Crowder has spent over 15 years working in the tech industry, first as an IT technician and then as a writer. She works to help teach others how to get the most from their devices, systems, and apps. She stays on top of the latest trends and is always finding solutions to common tech problems.

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Top 8 Security Cameras Without a Subscription - Make Tech Easier