Which Is The Best Video Doorbell Without Subscription?

When it comes to doorbells that work well without a subscription, there are many excellent options out there in the market. With this post, I want to simplify your search by sharing my experience using some of the best smart doorbells that don’t need a subscription. Let’s dive right in!

Which is the Best Wired Video Doorbell Without Subscription?

I have found the Eufy Security Video Doorbell to be the best wired doorbell that doesn’t require a subscription. It offers crisp and clear footage, pocket-friendly local storage option, and advanced features like AI detection that not only make your home security reliable but also smarter.

Top Wired Video Doorbells Without Any Subscription 

If you are looking for the best wired video doorbell without subscription, the following could be some amazing options. 

1. Eufy Wired Doorbell Dual

After testing lots of smart home security doorbells, the Eufy Security Video Doorbell is easily one of my top picks. For starters, it offers exceptional video quality – showing clear and crisp visuals whether it’s day or night.

On top of that, the AI person detection smartly differentiates between a person and something like a passing car. This significantly reduced the unnecessary alerts.

What really sealed the deal for me was the local storage capability. Being able to store my recordings without shelling out for a subscription felt like a breath of fresh air. It fits perfectly with my preference for a more autonomous and self-reliant security system.

Its reasonable price further helped me save on ongoing costs while still enjoying high-level security and convenience.

However, the limited options for cloud storage were a slight letdown. While I’m a fan of local storage, having the option for more cloud space could be handy for backup. Moreover, to really unlock all its features, you might find yourself needing additional Eufy equipment, which could add to the overall cost and effort.

In a nutshell, my experience with the Eufy Security Video Doorbell has been very positive– thanks to its exceptional video quality, advanced AI detection, and the cost-saving aspect of no required subscriptions.

Pros and Cons

💰 Price: It’s competitively priced, making it an excellent choice for those looking to avoid monthly fees.

2. Blink Video Doorbell

I have found the Blink Video Doorbell to be another great choice for anyone who doesn’t want to deal with monthly subscription fees. But there’s more to it:

Firstly, setting it up was easy, especially since it worked with the doorbell wires I already had. This meant I didn’t have to worry about changing batteries. The video quality, both day and night, was really clear, so I could always see who was at my door. Plus, being able to talk to visitors through my phone was super handy.

The best part is that you don’t have to pay extra to access your video recordings. Unlike other doorbells that charge you every month, this one lets you keep your videos without any extra cost. This was a big plus for me.

However, there are a couple of things to keep in mind. If your Wi-Fi isn’t strong, the doorbell might not work as well. Also, getting it set up just right might take a little bit of time and patience.

But overall, the Blink Video Doorbell is a solid choice. It’s affordable, doesn’t come with hidden fees, and does what you need it to do.

Pros and Cons

💰Price: Very affordable, making it an excellent option for those looking to avoid monthly subscriptions and save money in the long run.

3. Wyze Camera Doorbell

The Wyze Camera Doorbell is another option to consider if you prefer not to get tangled in subscription fees.

From the get-go, the Wyze Doorbell was a breeze to install. It’s wired, which means you don’t have to stress about battery life, and it integrates smoothly with your existing doorbell setup. 

The video quality is impressive, delivering clear images so you can easily see who’s at the door, even in low-light conditions. Plus, the two-way audio feature is a big help, allowing you to communicate directly with visitors from anywhere.

What really makes the Wyze Doorbell shine is its no-subscription model. You get access to 14 days of rolling cloud storage for free, which is a rarity and a huge cost-saver. It’s a relief not to worry about additional monthly fees to review footage.

However, it’s not without its downsides. The field of view is somewhat limited compared to some competitors, which might miss some peripheral activity. Also, while the app is feature-rich, navigating it can be a bit overwhelming at first.

Pros and Cons

💰 Price: Very reasonable, especially considering the savings from no required subscriptions.

4. Arlo Wired Video Doorbell

The Arlo Wired Video Doorbell is another doorbell to consider if you don’t want to pay the high subscription charges. However, it’s not only excellent from an economical standpoint.

For starters, I found its installation straightforward, fitting seamlessly into my home’s existing doorbell system. However, I felt that it does require a certain degree of technical know-how, so you might want to call in a professional if you are not very confident.

And then, the video quality. The high-resolution footage, coupled with a wide viewing angle, meant I could see everything at my doorstep in crystal clear detail, day or night. 

The addition of direct-to-mobile video calls, whenever the doorbell was pressed, allowed me to interact with visitors instantly. It adds a layer of convenience I hadn’t experienced before.

However, it’s worth noting that to fully leverage the Arlo Doorbell’s potential, a subscription becomes almost necessary for extended video history and advanced detection features. This might be a drawback for those strictly against ongoing fees.

Still, if you can do with just the essential features, the Arlo Wired Video Doorbell makes for a reliable smart video doorbell without subscription charges.

Pros and Cons

💰 Price: Reasonable for the quality and features offered, especially for those looking to minimize recurring costs.

5. Amcrest Wired Doorbell

When I first tried the Amcrest Wired Doorbell, I was impressed by how many features it offers without a subscription. It impresses right out of the box with its straightforward installation process. It was a seamless fit into my existing doorbell system, requiring no additional wiring or complicated setup. 

The video quality is notably sharp, providing clear images that make identifying visitors a breeze, even in low-light conditions. The wide-angle lens offers a comprehensive view of my doorstep, ensuring I don’t miss any activity.

One of the most appealing features of this doorbell is its local storage capability. The ability to store footage directly on the device without needing a monthly subscription is a significant cost saver and offers peace of mind. 

Additionally, the motion detection alerts are spot-on. It sends notifications to my phone only when it matters, reducing unnecessary interruptions.

However, it’s not without its minor drawbacks. The initial configuration of settings to optimize motion detection and alerts can take a bit of tinkering. For those less tech-savvy, this might pose a slight challenge.

Having said all that, this Amrcrest Doorbell is still one of my favorite video doorbells, and the fact that it doesn’t really need a subscription makes it an even better deal.

Pros and Cons

💰 Price: Very reasonable, especially considering the long-term savings from no required subscriptions.

6. Netatmo’s HD Wired Doorbell

Being on the lookout for smart home gadgets that blend seamlessly into my life without adding extra hassle or cost, I stumbled upon Netatmo’s HD Wired Doorbell.

Right from the start, the Netatmo Doorbell impressed me with its HD video quality. Day or night, the images were crystal clear, making it easy to see who was at the door. 

I had no issues with installing the doorbell all by myself. What really sets it apart, though, is the fact that you don’t need a subscription to use its features. All the video footage is stored locally, which means no monthly fees and complete control over my data.

Another feature I appreciated was the real-time alerts sent directly to my phone. Whether I was at home or away, I could always know who was at my door and even talk to them thanks to the two-way audio. This level of convenience and security, without additional costs, is hard to beat.

However, similar to the Amcrest doorbell, the initial setup requires a bit of patience, especially when connecting to your home Wi-Fi network. Some might find this process a bit frustrating.

But if you can look beyond these minor drawbacks, Netatmo’s HD Wireless Doorbell is a very reliable video doorbell that doesn’t burn a hole in your pocket with subscription costs. 

Pros and Cons

💰 Price: Considering the features and the absence of subscription fees, the price point is very reasonable.

7. Nest Video Doorbell

The Nest Video Doorbell is one of the best video doorbells I have ever used in my house, not just for its cost-effectiveness but also for its advanced features and reliable home security.

Firstly, I love its its sleek design and the ease with which it integrated into my home’s existing wiring. The setup was a breeze, and before I knew it, I was enjoying crystal-clear HD video of my doorstep. 

The doorbell’s ability to distinguish between people, packages, animals, and vehicles, sending me precise alerts, was a game-changer. This intelligent differentiation meant I received notifications that actually mattered, reducing unnecessary interruptions.

Another feature that impressed me was the doorbell’s 24/7 live streaming capability. I could check in on my front door anytime from anywhere. It gave me peace of mind whether I was in the backyard or halfway around the world. The two-way audio was clear and reliable, allowing for easy communication with visitors.

However, though it doesn’t require a subscription for basic functionality, accessing the full suite of features, like familiar face recognition, does require a Nest Aware subscription. This can be a drawback for those strictly want to avoid additional fees.

So, if its basic suite of features can fulfill your home security needs, you should definitely give the Google Nest Video Doorbell a go and enjoy subscription free, reliable home security.

Pros and Cons

💰 Price: Given its advanced features and performance, the Nest Video Doorbell offers good value, especially for those keen on avoiding monthly subscriptions.

Tips to Buy the Best Video Doorbell Without Subscription

Keep this in mind when buying a video doorbell without subscription:

📹 Check Video Quality

The video quality of your doorbell camera is crucial. Look for cameras that offer at least 1080p resolution. This ensures that the footage is clear enough to identify faces and other important details. High-definition video can make a big difference in security situations.

👁️ Consider the Field of View

A wider field of view (FOV) means the camera can capture more of your doorstep and surroundings. A FOV between 160° to 180° is ideal as it covers a broad area, reducing blind spots.

🌙 Evaluate Night Vision Capabilities

Good night vision is essential for all security cameras, including doorbell cameras. Ensure the camera has infrared (IR) night vision to provide clear footage even in complete darkness.

🚶‍♂️ Look for Motion Detection Features

Motion detection alerts you when someone is at your door, even if they don’t ring the bell. Some doorbell cameras offer customizable motion zones, which allow you to specify which areas trigger an alert, reducing false alarms.

💾 Assess Storage Options

Since you’re looking for a doorbell camera without a subscription, local storage is key. Many models come with a slot for a microSD card or internal storage. This allows you to save video footage directly on the device without needing cloud storage.

🎙️ Check for Two-Way Audio

Two-way audio lets you communicate with whoever is at your door, from delivery people to unexpected guests. It’s a useful feature for giving instructions or asking for identification without opening the door.

🔋 Consider Power Options

Most doorbell cameras are either battery-powered or wired. While battery-powered options offer easier installation and flexibility in placement, wired models don’t require battery changes or recharging. Consider which option best fits your home setup and lifestyle.

🔧 Ease of Installation

Look for a doorbell camera that you can easily install yourself. Many models come with all the necessary tools and a step-by-step guide. If you’re not comfortable with DIY installation, consider a model that offers professional installation services.

☔ Weather Resistance

Make sure that the doorbell camera is built to withstand the weather conditions in your area. Look for an IP rating that guarantees protection against dust and water. This is crucial for the durability and longevity of your device.

🏠 Compatibility with Smart Home Systems

If you have a smart home system or plan to build one, check if the doorbell camera is compatible with your smart home ecosystem. This allows for seamless integration and control through a central platform.

The Final Call: Which Is The Best Wired Video Doorbell For You?

This was all about the best video doorbells without subscription. While Eufy Security Video Doorbell is my top pick in this category, what’s best for you is what works for you! For the rest, my buying guide will help you make the right choice.

For more on smart doorbells, check out these guides:

• Can You Put Tape Over A Ring Doorbell?
• Ring Doorbell Stopped Working After Rain? Here’s What To Do
• Your Ring Doorbell Missed Person? Here’s What To Do
• Will Ring Doorbell Work With Mobile Hotspot?
• Can Ring Doorbell Chime On Base Station?

Frequently Asked Questions