Cameras installed in doorbells have quickly become one of the most popular forms of home surveillance technology. It’s easy to understand why. Doorbell cameras allow you to see who’s at your door without actually opening it, giving you peace of mind whether you’re at home or not.
In fact, the LAPD saw a 50% reduction in burglaries in neighborhoods with video doorbells compared to those without.
Unfortunately, most of the most popular brands of these gadgets need ongoing payments for access to cloud storage and other capabilities. Like me, you may feel a twinge of reluctance at the thought of adding yet another member to your already lengthy list.
Thankfully, several firms have entered the market and are providing extraordinary video doorbells that don’t require a membership or any other hidden costs.
In this article, I will discuss the top video doorbells that don’t require a monthly subscription in 2022-23. My knowledge and expertise in the field guided my selection of these devices, and I’ve established some ground rules that all surveillance cameras must follow (those are listed below).
Minimum Standards
In order to deliver just the finest, I have spent many hours studying and analyzing hundreds of doorbell cameras.
- High-Definition (1080p or 2k) video capture is required (5MP)
- If you want to keep an eye on your front entrance at night, you need a camera with night vision.
- Mobile App: Requires both iOS and Android compatibility and full functionality.
- Allows for a two-way conversation with site visitors
- Warnings from motion detectors require that you get alerts on your mobile device.
- In order to live stream footage from your doorbell, you must be able to do so.
- Capturing and playing back video is a required feature.
Quick View
Product | Best For | Price in US Dollars |
Eufy 2k Doorbell Camera | Overall Best Video Doorbell without a Subscription | Price: view availability on Amazon
Price at Walmart: $89.90 |
AOSU Video Doorbell | Runner up Best Doorbell Camera without a Monthly Fee | Price: view availability on Amazon
Price at Walmart: $107.90 |
Blink Video Doorbell + Sync Module 2 | Best Budget Video Doorbell Camera without Subscription Fees | Price: view availability on Amazon
Price at Walmart: $63.90 |
Amcrest AD410 | Best Video Doorbell for NVR Recording | Price: view availability on Amazon
Price at Walmart: $149.90 |
Here is the list of What is the Best Wireless Video Doorbells without a Subscription:
Eufy 2k Doorbell Camera
Overall Best Video Doorbell without a Subscription
- Price: view availability on Amazon
- Price at Walmart: $89.90
Main Features
The number of video doorbells available doesn’t seem to be slowing down anytime soon, but the Eufy 2k Doorbell Camera stands head and shoulders above the competition thanks to its wealth of capabilities.
Two different power sources are available, which is a nice touch for a doorbell. You may either hardwire it into your existing doorbell system or use batteries if you’d rather not deal with wiring. Choose battery power, and the USB-rechargeable internal battery can keep you going for up to six months.
The Eufy’s motion detection is state-of-the-art and packed with neat extras like:
With the help of AI, Smart Human Detection can tell if the captured motion was indeed from a human being or not. As a result, fewer accidental notifications, such as those from passing animals, will be issued.
Using “Activity Zones,” you may choose a certain region in which the camera will look for motion. An ideal solution for blocking out noisy streets and walkways.
Audio quality is just as high as visual quality. There is crystal clear two-way communication between the doorbell and the app; for example, you might program the app to say, “Hello, may I assist you?” or “Please leave the box in front of the door, thank you.”
To prevent your phone from going off at your next social event, you may snooze notifications for up to 12 hours.
Design-wise, it’s on par with other similar video doorbells. It comes in a sleek black style with a blue LED ring around the button. Eufy listens to its users and fixes issues quickly, and its customers tend to be satisfied.
Video & Playback Quality
When compared to competing for 2k video doorbells, the recordings from this high-res camera’s 2560 x 1920 resolution are noticeably clearer and sharper.
It boasts a 4:3 aspect ratio, superb night vision, and a 160-degree field of view, so you’ll never miss a visitor.
Data Storage and Usability
Unfortunately, this video doorbell is not compatible with any cloud services offered by Eufy. Instead, movies are stored on the HomeBase’s internal 16GB storage, which is encrypted using Military-grade AES-256 technology.
Approximately 60 hours of the film may be stored in 16GB, more than enough for most uses. However, it’s unfortunate that the HomeBase doesn’t provide more storage space.
There are a lot of video doorbells out there, and Eufy is one of them; however, it only connects to 2.4 GHz WI-Fi networks.
In conclusion, Eufy is a trustworthy company that produces one of the finest commercially available video doorbells that does not require a monthly membership.
What I Like / Dislike about the Eufy Security Video Doorbell
Reasons to Buy:
- 2K high-resolution camera
- Two power options
- 6-month battery life; internal rechargeable battery
- 16GB local encrypted storage
- Supports Alexa and Google Assistant
Reasons to Avoid:
- Memory can’t be expanded; stuck at only 16GB
- No dual-band Wi-Fi support; 2.4GHz only
2. AOSU Video Doorbell
Runner up Best Doorbell Camera without a Monthly Fee
- Price: view availability on Amazon
- Price at Walmart: $107.90
Main Features
The AOSU Doorbell Camera is up next, and it’s a fantastic, less costly alternative to the Eufy doorbell (the top doorbell on this list).
It may be either hardwired into your existing doorbell system or powered by its built-in rechargeable battery, which has a runtime of up to six months on a single charge. The doorbell may be easily removed for charging and plugged into the included USB charger. Indicators on the doorbell will sound if the power supply begins to fail.
In addition to being a doorbell, the internal base station may also serve as a chime, meaning it can be used in places where a doorbell isn’t already installed.
It contains a one-touch option that plays prerecorded messages like “Hello, may I assist you?” and a nifty function that alters your voice’s pitch while you speak, all of which serve to ensure that whoever is at your door cannot recognize you.
There are now two options for voice tones: “Uncle,” which makes you sound like a middle-aged guy, and “Clown,” which makes you seem frightening yet undetected. This function is not present on any other video doorbells that I am aware of.
Incorporates “smart detecting” technology that can distinguish between a person and an animal (such as a cat or dog). However, you may disable this feature if you prefer to be alerted regardless of what the camera detects.
The range at which the motion detector will activate is also customizable. You may also designate a certain region by making “motion zones.” When motion is detected in that area, the camera will activate.
Video & Playback Quality
The AOSU features a 4:3 aspect ratio and shoots at a sharp 5 megapixels (2k resolution); it also offers great night vision and a wide field of view.
With this camera, you won’t have to worry about missing a thing.
Data Storage and Usability
A stationary base station of this type may be installed anywhere inside your house, and its 8 GB of internal memory is enough to save around 30 minutes of video.
A monthly cloud-storage subscription is available in case you require extra capacity, however, AOSU does not offer extendable storage.
What I Like / Dislike about the AOSU
Reasons to Buy:
- 5MP UHD lens
- Alexa and Google Assistant support
- Excellent night vision
- Voice masking
- 180-day battery life; rechargeable battery
- Triple Motion Detection
- Dual-band Wi-Fi compatible (2.4GHz/5GHz)
Reasons to Avoid:
- Memory can’t be expanded; stuck at only 8GB
Blink Video Doorbell + Sync Module 2
Best Budget Video Doorbell Camera without Subscription Fees
- Price: view availability on Amazon
- Price at Walmart: $63.90
Main Features
The Blink 1080p + Sync Module 2 is the greatest subscription-free video doorbell for the money in my opinion.
The Blink is dual-powered, meaning it can run off of either the doorbell’s current cabling or two rechargeable AA batteries (which are included). It claims to have a two-year battery life, but your mileage may vary depending on usage and settings; a year at maximum quality is more realistic.
Your existing doorbell chime can be used with the Blink when it is hardwired. On the other hand, if you choose a wireless implementation, you’ll be limited to alerts via the companion mobile app. If you like, you can connect it to any Echo Dot or Show that has a chime skill on Amazon.
The Blink offers good sound quality for the budget and may be used for a wireless two-way conversation. It also has activity zones, so you can tell the camera not to pick up motion on certain streets or sidewalks.
The lack of a live video stream on the mobile app is a key shortcoming of this camera in the absence of motion.
Video & Playback Quality
The Blink 1080p + Sync Module 2 is the greatest subscription-free video doorbell for the money in my opinion.
The Blink is dual-powered, meaning it can run off of either the doorbell’s current cabling or two rechargeable AA batteries (which are included). It claims to have a two-year battery life, but your mileage may vary depending on usage and settings; a year at maximum quality is more realistic.
Your existing doorbell chime can be used with the Blink when it is hardwired. On the other hand, if you choose for a wireless implementation, you’ll be limited to alerts via the companion mobile app. If you like, you can connect it to any Echo Dot or Show that has a chime skill on Amazon.
The Blink offers good sound quality for the budget and may be used for wireless two-way conversation. It also has activity zones, so you can tell the camera not to pick up motion on certain streets or sidewalks.
The lack of a live video stream on the mobile app is a key shortcoming of this camera in the absence of motion.
Data Storage and Usability
Blink can record in full 1080p HD and includes decent infrared HD for use at night. See exactly who’s at your door, friend or foe, with the help of the webcam. It’s important to note that you won’t be able to see license plates or other signs with small print.
The Blink doorbell comes in two different configurations: with or without the Sync Module 2 (a detachable USB drive used to save footage locally).
The Blink XT is a better alternative if you require more than just a motion detector to record what’s occurring outside your door in real time.
Nonetheless, the Sync Module-containing package is required for video recording. You may find the cheaper base model here if you decide you don’t need the Sync Module, which is included in the version I’ve mentioned.
Cloud storage for video recording is optional with Blink, although Amazon offers it for $3 per month.
Blink, like other low-cost wireless doorbell cameras, cannot connect to a 5GHZ network.
In conclusion, this budget-friendly video doorbell has several useful functions and will keep your home safe.
What I Like / Dislike about the AOSU
Reasons to Buy:
- Cheap as dirt
- Alexa and Google Assistant
- Dual power options; Wired and battery-powered
- Easy integration with Amazon Alexa
- Long battery life
Reasons to Avoid:
- Lower resolution; 1080P
- No live view on battery power unless the motion is detected.
- No base station chime on battery power
- No dual-band Wi-Fi support; 2.4GHz only
Amcrest AD410
Best Video Doorbell for NVR Recording
- Price: view availability on Amazon
- Price at Walmart: $149.90
Main Features
The AD410 Amcrest video doorbell is the newest addition to Amcrest’s series of smart doorbells, which also includes a number of other devices designed to keep your house safe. Although it nearly displaced Lorex from the top rank, I ultimately decided against it since it does not work with Google Home.
Here are a few standout characteristics of Amcrest:
False alarms can be reduced using AI human detection since the system can tell the difference between human movement and that of a car, bird, or pet. This feature is switchable via the app.
Disable motion detection in some zones, such as a busy sidewalk or your neighbor’s driveway, from the convenience of your smartphone.
Real-Time Video and Conversation: Access lives video of visitors at your door and have a conversation with them using your smartphone. The sound quality of an Amcrest is superb.
Push Notifications in Mobile Applications: Alerts will sound when someone is nearing your door, and live view may be accessed with the touch of a button. In this respect, the Amcrest shines and is surprisingly quick.
Replies in a Hurry: Record and save messages, such as “GET OFF MY PORCH!!! “, that may be played at the touch of a button to guests.
It also has an LED light that can be used to brighten your entrance. The light may be turned on by motion sensing or set to remain on at specific times.
Video & Playback Quality
The Amcrest’s 4MP sensor provides a high resolution of 2560 x 1920 and a broad field of vision of 164 degrees, ensuring that you won’t miss a thing. It’s also possible to change to 1080p resolution within the app, which is a unique and interesting option.
The Wide Dynamic Range (WDR) function is excellent since it helps mitigate the problem of overexposed photographs on bright days.
Similarly, night vision is quite effective and does a great job at adjusting the brightness of footage shot at night.
In terms of picture quality, there are no issues.
Data Storage and Usability
The way in which footage is saved raises some doubts for me in regard to the reliability of this doorbell. The doorbell’s onboard memory.
If the doorbell is removed from the wall, all recorded activity will be lost.
However, the Amcrest uses a MicroSD card to record footage, and it can accommodate cards with up to 128GB of space.
Keep in mind the MicroSD card is not included; you will need to buy that separately for a low price if you want to use local storage. The Amcrest Smart Home Subscription is also available for those who would like to upload their videos to a remote server.
Neither Google Home nor Alexa may be used in a direct manner. Home Assistant, which acts as a bridge to both Google Home and Alexa, is compatible, though. It’s also compatible with any network video recorder, which isn’t something you see very often with video doorbells.
Finally, it’s one of the few of its kind that works with both 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi networks.
The Amcrest has all the features that make it a top-notch video doorbell. However, due to the fact that it requires wiring, it is not a practical option for homes or flats that already have a wired doorbell installed.
What I Like / Dislike about the Amcrest
Reasons to Buy:
- Feature-rich
- Compatible with dual-band Wi-Fi Networks
- Expandable memory; MicroSD card
- Compatible with Home Assistant and works with any NVR
Reasons to Avoid:
- Wired only; no battery-powered option
- No external base station; local storage is held on the doorbell
- No direct integration with Google Home or Amazon Alexa; but does work with home assistant
Tips for Choosing a Wi-Fi Smart Video Camera Doorbell
There are a few features and qualities to look for in a doorbell camera before making a purchase.
Having this knowledge will help you select the most suitable and efficient doorbell.
Comparison of Corded and Battery-Operated Systems
The first thing to think about is whether the doorbell will be powered by a permanent electrical connection or by batteries.
The availability of an existing doorbell system to connect to is a major factor in making this selection, as is the case in the vast majority of houses and apartments. I suggest getting a hardwired doorbell if you already have the wiring in place.
But if you’re renting or living in an apartment, you probably don’t have a wired doorbell system, so you’ll need a gadget that can work on batteries for a long period.
Tenants presumably also aren’t allowed to make any permanent modifications, such as drilling mounting holes or running wiring. In this instance, a battery-operated doorbell with adjustable mounting options is recommended. Peephole cameras, which may be installed on the inside of a door, are another option.
Video
A high-resolution camera raises the price of a gadget but produces clear images with proper lighting. The quality of a video may be judged on four different factors.
Resolution
More pixels, and hence more sharpness, are the result of a higher resolution.
Today’s most popular HD video doorbell resolutions are:
Full HD (1920 x 1080)
2560 × 1920 pixels; 2K; 5MP; five million pixels
To avoid footage that looks like Bigfoot films, I recommend 1080P or greater resolution.
Aspect ratio
The width and height of your film, known as its “aspect ratio,” greatly affects the visual experience. A 16:9 aspect ratio camera’s field of vision is larger and less vertical than a 4:3 or 3:2 camera’s. A 3:4 aspect ratio, on the other hand, displays more vertical space than horizontal.
A doorbell camera with a wider field of view can capture more of your entrance whether the aspect ratio is 1:1, 4:3, or 3:4.
Visibility Area
How much of the scene the camera can capture depends on this. You can see more of the entrance with a 180-degree field of vision than with a 160-degree one. I also think a wider field of view is better, and would recommend at least 120 degrees.
Seeing in the dark
Even if most break-ins take place during the day, you shouldn’t sleep soundly because of the possibility of supernatural occurrences. The quality of your camera’s night vision is crucial to your home’s safety. While there are a number of methods cameras may provide night vision, infrared often produces the best results.
Specifications of a Motion Detector
More and more modern doorbell cameras can distinguish between human movement and other types of motion, such as trees swaying in the wind, birds, and dogs.
All of the above-mentioned cameras incorporate human detection AI and activity zones, which are two of the most effective ways to prevent false alerts.
Sound and Conversational Back-and-Forth
One of the most useful aspects of doorbell cameras is the ability to speak to visitors from any location. A doorbell with a clear, sharp sound and a mobile app that alerts you to motion and allows you to swiftly communicate with visitors is ideal.
Storage
Video storage, including the amount of storage space required and the location of the storage, is a significant consideration for subscription-free doorbells.
Capacity for Storage
In most cases, 16 GB of storage space will be more than enough for a doorbell to capture video when motion is detected. Doorbells that employ SD cards for removable storage are one option, but you may also simply remove old recordings if you need more room.
Position of Local Storage
The placement of a camera’s local storage is crucial. It’s preferable to keep the recorded film inside your house, away from the doorbell. If your doorbell camera is installed in the door, the footage will be useless if it is stolen.
Connectivity
The vast majority of doorbell cameras only function on a 2.4GHz wifi network, while some dual-band options are available.
Think about getting a doorbell that works with your smart home services of choice, such as Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, or Home Assistant.
Durability
Furthermore, in extremely hot or cold areas, operating temperatures must be taken into account. Temperatures between 140 degrees Fahrenheit (60 degrees Celsius) and -22 degrees Fahrenheit (-30 degrees Celsius) are typically within the operating range of most high-quality video cameras (-20 C).
However, these temperatures are only the “rating” range, and exceeding them will not cause the camera to malfunction. A thought for those who have to deal with scorching summers or freezing winters.
Final Verdict
Cameras installed in doorbells are an additional safety measure. Protect the people and possessions you care about most against intruders by keeping an eye on who’s knocking on your door.
Ring doorbells are popular among smart doorbells, but their subscription model is unappealing, and newer, cheaper alternatives are appearing that provide similar functionality without the need for a contract.
The Eufy 2K was my top selection for the user question, what is the best wireless video doorbell without a subscription? It records high-quality 2K video with a wide-angle lens and works in the dark, has night vision, a responsive mobile app, 16GB of local storage, two-way speak, and two independent power sources. Very few issues have been reported, and the firm is well-known for its prompt bug patches and helpful customer support.
You might want to see this:
- How to Link Your Smart Display to Your Video Doorbell
- 5 Best Smart Video Doorbells Of 2021
- Ring chime vs chime pro: Which one is best for you?
- Smart Home Doorbells Now Have Open Support in Google Assistant
- Best Awarded Video Doorbell 2019
- Nest Doorbell Homekit
- Smart Home Wireless Video Doorbell
Frequently Asked Questions:
How does a video doorbell service work, exactly?
Subscription-based video doorbells, even though they aren’t required to have one, typically offer cloud-based doorbell video storage and occasionally improved performance. Enhanced functionality may include the ability to get alerts more quickly or to receive smarter notifications that can assist filter out irrelevant information.
Even though a video doorbell does not need a subscription, it may nevertheless provide a cloud storage plan of some type for storing footage as an alternative; however, you are under no obligation to purchase or use this plan
Is Wi-Fi required for video doorbells?
All of these gadgets are, in fact, versions of Wi-Fi video doorbells. In order to provide you with alerts and give you access to stored films, they connect to your home network and the internet through Wi-Fi. Although Wi-Fi video doorbells can be powered by standard doorbell wire, they may still rely on the Internet to conduct things like ring-associated chimes.