There's no denying that doorbell cameras are becoming one of the most popular home security features in recent years. And it's not hard to see why. Doorbell cameras offer a great way to see who's at your door without having to open it and can provide peace of mind whether you're home or away.
In fact, the LAPD saw a 50% reduction in burglaries in neighborhoods with video doorbells compared to those without.
But a sad reality of these devices is most popular brands require monthly subscriptions for cloud storage and other features. If you're anything like me, adding another service to your list of subscriptions makes you cringe.
Fortunately for us, some companies have stepped into the arena, offering some phenomenal video doorbells without any subscription or additional fees.
This guide will reveal what I consider to be the best video doorbells without a subscription—updated for 2023! These devices have been hand-selected based on my own experience in the security industry, and I've created some minimum standards that each video camera must meet (those are listed below).
But if you want the quick and dirty answer.
The best doorbell camera without a monthly subscription fee is the Eufy 2K Video Doorbell. This wireless doorbell records in 2k resolution, has a 160-degree wide-angle lens, excellent night vision, two power options (hardwired or battery-powered), is compatible with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, has a ton of smart motion detector features, and comes with an external HomeBase with 16GB of encrypted local storage.
While the Eufy 2k is the best overall choice, there are some other excellent options for those on a budget or looking for unique features.
What are the Best Video Doorbells Without Subscriptions?
Here are the best doorbell cameras with no monthly fees to use this year!
Minimum Standards
I’ve spent hours upon hours researching and reviewing dozens of doorbell cameras, and to provide only the best, there had to be some standards to make this list.
- HD Video Quality: Must have high-resolution video cameras at either 1080p or 2k (5MP)
- Night Vision: Must have night viewing functionality to patrol your doorway at night.
- Mobile Application: Must have functional mobile device apps that work with iOS and Andriod
- Two-Way Communication: Must be able to communicate with visitors through the app
- Motion Detector Alerts: Must provide push notifications to your mobile device when motion is detected
- Live Doorbell Footage: Must be able to live stream your doorway
- Video Playback: Must be able to record and playback video footage
1. Eufy 2k Doorbell Camera
Overall Best Video Doorbell Without a Subscription
Main Features
There are a growing number of video doorbells on the market today, but none quite match the rich features of the Eufy 2k Doorbell Camera, which easily takes the cake for the best overall video doorbell without a subscription!
A pleasant feature of this doorbell is that it provides two power options. It can be directly wired into your old doorbell system, or you can run battery-powered if don't want to mess with wires or don't have an old doorbell at all. If you choose to go batteried-powered, the internal battery is USB rechargeable and can last up to 6 months between charges.
The motion detection on the Eufy is also next-level and includes some pretty cool features, such as:
- Smart Human Detection: Uses AI to determine whether the captured motion was human or not. This helps reduce false alerts, such as those caused by passing animals.
- Activity Zones: This allows you to set a specific area in which motion can be detected. Perfect for excluding busy sidewalks or streets from detection!
In addition to crisp video, the audio is also top-tier. Two-way communication between the doorbell and the app is crystal clear, and you can even create quick responses such as "Hello, can I help you?" or even "Please leave the package in front of the door, thank you!"
You can also snooze alerts for up to 12 hours, so your phone doesn't blow up during your next party.
Design-wise it looks like every other video doorbell. It has a sleek black design, and the button is surrounded by a blue LED ring. Eufy is responsive to customer feedback and bugs, and most speak highly of their customer service.
Video & Playback Quality
This high-res camera records in 2k resolution (2560 x 1920) and produces incredibly clean and crisp videos compared to many other 2k video doorbells.
It also has a 160-degree field of view, 4:3 aspect ratio, and fantastic night vision, so there is no mistaking who is at your door—day or night!
Data Storage and Usability:
Eufy doesn't provide any cloud storage services for this video doorbell. Rather videos are kept on a 16GB internal storage on the included HomeBase protected by Military-grade AES-256 data encryption.
16GB gives you about 60 hours of footage, which is ample time for most applications. That being said, the HomeBase does not feature expandable storage, which is a true shame.
Like many video doorbells, Eufy only works with 2.4GHz Wifi and won't connect to 5GHz networks.
Overall, Eufy is an iron-clad brand that, hands down, makes one of the best subscription-free video doorbells you can buy!
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 wifi support; 2.4GHz only
2. AOSU Video Doorbell
Runner Up Best Doorbell Camera Without a Monthly Fee
Main Features
Next up is the AOSU Doorbell Camera, which is an excellent and affordable alternative to the more expensive Eufy doorbell (the top doorbell on this list).
It has two power options; it can be hard-wired into your old doorbell system or run off a rechargeable internal battery which can last up to six months on a single charge. To charge, remove the doorbell and plug it into the included USB charger. The doorbell will alert you when the battery is getting low.
The internal base station can also work as the doorbell chime, so you don't need an existing doorbell and can use it in other situations other than your front door.
It has a quick reply button that will speak out pre-recorded messages such as "Hello, can I help you?" and even has a cool feature that can change the tone of your voice while talking so that whoever is at the door can not identify you.
At the moment, they have two tones available; Uncle, which makes you sound like a middle-aged man, or clown, which makes you sound creepy but undetectable. I'm not aware of any other video doorbells that offer this unique feature.
Has a "smart detection" that can tell the difference between a human and an animal (such as a cat or dog). However, you can turn this off so it will alert you no matter what the camera thinks it is.
You can also adjust the distance in which the motion detection will be triggered. You can also create "motion zones" in which you can define a specific area. The camera will only trigger when movent is sensed in that zone.
Video & Playback Quality
The AOSU shoots at a crisp 5MP (2k resolution), and in addition to using a 4:3 aspect ratio, it has excellent night vision and an impressive 166-degree field of view.
You won't worry about missing anything with this camera!
Data Storage and Usability:
This model uses a base station that sits inside your home and includes 8 GB of internal memory—about 30 minutes of footage.
AOSU does not offer expandable storage, but they do offer a cloud-storage monthly subscription just in case you need more space!
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 wifi compatible (2.4GHz/5GHz)
Reasons to Avoid:
- Memory can't be expanded; stuck at only 8GB
3. Blink Video Doorbell + Sync Module 2
Best Budget Video Doorbell Camera Without Subscription Fees
Main Features
My pick for the best budget-friendly subscription-free video doorbell is the Blink 1080p + Sync Module 2.
Like most doorbell cameras, the Blink is dual-powered; it can use the existing doorbell wiring or be powered using two rechargeable AA batteries (which are included). It’s touted to have a two years battery life, but that will depend upon use and settings, so realistically expect about a year at top-quality settings.
When hardwired, the Blink can utilize your current doorbell chime. However, if you decide to run it wirelessly, you will have to rely solely on mobile app notifications. Alternatively, it can be linked up to any Amazon Alexa that can function as a chime.
For the price, the Blink has decent audio and is capable of two-way wireless communication. It also includes activity zones so you can specify where you want the camera to pick up motion; great for excluding busy streets or sidewalks.
One major drawback of this camera is that you can't access a live video feed on the app unless motion is detected.
Video & Playback Quality
Blink provides 1080p HD video and has adequate infrared HD night vision. The camera allows you to clearly recognize who is standing at your front door—whether they be friends or foes. However, you won't be able to read any type of small lettering, such as license plates or signs.
If you are looking for a sharp image, I recommend spending a little more on one of the 2k cameras on this list. The camera has 135-degree field-of-view coverage.
Data Storage and Usability:
There are two versions of the Blink doorbell; one includes the Sync Module 2 (which uses a removable USB drive to store video locally), while the other provides just the doorbell.
If you only need a motion detector to capture what is happening outside your door and give you real-time footage, the base Blink model is a good option.
However, if you want the ability to record video, you’ll want to get the bundle that includes the Sync Module. The version I’ve listed includes the Sync Module, if you decided that you don't need it, you can find the cheaper base model here.
While Blink doesn't require a subscription plan, Amazon does offer cloud storage for $3 a month if you decide you want cloud storage for video recording.
Like most cheaper wireless doorbell cameras, Blink requires a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network and will not work on 5GHZ.
Overall this low-cost video doorbell offers great features and will guard your door without breaking the bank.
What I Like / Dislike about the Blink
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 motion is detected.
- No base station chime on battery power
- No dual-band wifi support; 2.4GHz only
4. Eufy Dual Smart Doorbell Camera
Best Dual Camera Video Doorbell With No Fees
Main Features
The Eufy Dual doorbell camera is a premium video doorbell with various unique features that you won’t find on any other doorbell camera, so buckle up!
First off, this doorbell has two cameras. It has one front-facing camera to watch visitors and another on the bottom of the device to keep an eye on packages at your door—making it the ultimate addition to your home security!
Like most smart doorbells, the Eufy can be hardwired to your existing doorbell wires for continuous power and can use the existing doorbell chime in your home.
Alternatively, it can run off the included battery for up to six months. Charging the Eufy is also simple; just remove it from the wall mount and plug a micro USB into the hidden port on the back.
Other cool and unique features include:
- Package Detection: The bottom camera will alert you when packages are delivered, and the mobile app provides a video recording and timestamp of the delivery
- Delivery Guard: Will play a custom audio message like “DON'T TOUCH THAT!” if someone attempts to tamper with your package.
- Package Reminders: This will alert you if you forget to bring in a package. No more leaving packages out overnight!
- Facial Recognition: Upload or take a photo of a family member or friend in the mobile app, and if that individual approaches your door, it will alert you. You can also set up customized responses that will automatically be voiced to your visitor. Perfect for telling those pesky inlaws to go away!
- Motion Detection Zones: Allows you to select what areas of the camera can detect motion.
While some of these features are unique and innovative, there are some caveats. For example, package detection only works if the package is placed directly under the doorbell.
This model also uses two motion detection technologies—infrared (PIR) and radar—that help reduce false alarms by distinguishing people from other moving objects like trees blowing in the wind or your cat.
The two-way communication and audio are loud and crisp, and you can record custom “quick responses” up to 10 seconds long.
Video & Playback Quality
Eufy Dual's front camera is impressively powerful, with 2k Full HD resolution and HDR for clear, sharp images. It also has a wide 160-degree viewing angle, making it easy to see what's going on around your doorstep.
And if you need to check in at night, no problem – the camera has excellent night vision. Plus, the live view in the app is quick and responsive, so you won't miss a thing.
Data Storage and Usability:
All Eufy security products are one-time purchases; no additional fees! The included HomeBase offers 16GB of local storage, which sadly can’t be expanded. The doorbell footage is also encrypted before being sent to the HomeBase.
Overall if you are looking for a video doorbell that goes above and beyond, the Eufy Dual is a unique piece of technology with a lot going for it. It has a few software bugs to iron out, but Eufy is always deploying updates, and the core functionality are excellent!
What I Like / Dislike about the Eufy Dual Camera
Reasons to Buy:
- Dual cameras to eliminate blind spots; 2k lens on the front
- Dual infrared and radar motion sensors; fewer false alarms
- Dual-powered; hardwired to existing doorbell wires or battery-powered
- Lots of unique features including delivery guard, facial recognition, automated custom messages, package reminders
- 16GB local storage and AES-256 bit video encryption
Reasons to Avoid:
- Six-month battery life; but can be hardwired
- HDR isn't the greatest and can sometimes overexpose the image
- Local storage can’t be expanded
5. Lorex 2K Wired Video Doorbell
Best Smart Home Doorbell Camera
Main Features
If you’re new to the home security realm and are looking for a doorbell that can be linked up to an entire ecosystem of security cameras and window sensors, the Lorex 2K doorbell camera is your huckleberry!
This doorbell is a part of Lorex’s Fusion Collection. If you have any other Lorex security equipment, this doorbell will integrate into their smart home ecosystem. Even if you don’t have other Lorex products, this is an excellent product by itself.
The Lorex is a wired-only doorbell with no battery alternative. It requires a 16-24VAC or 12-24VDC wired connection to operate, so it won't work for an apartment or any other location that doesn't have existing doorbell wires.
It also includes many common features such as:
- Two-Way Communication
- Custom Messages
- Quick Responses
- Mobile App Notification
- AI Person Detection
- Remote-Activated Siren
Video & Playback Quality
The video quality of the Lorex is unmatched, possessing a 2K lens and even high-res colored night vision. Blindspots are also non-existent with a 164-degree viewing angle and a 4:3 aspect ratio.
It also has high-quality HDR (High Dynamic Range) that helps stabilize bright and dark areas to give you a more balanced and rich image; no overexposure.
Data Storage and Usability:
The Lorex uses a microSD card for video storage and even comes stock with a 32 GB MicroSD card.
However, one major shortcoming is the video is stored locally on the doorbell. If detached and stolen, not only do you lose your doorbell, but you lose the footage of who stole it. I believe this flaw can be offset by using their Fusion ecosystem, but at the time of writing this, I’m not sure. (I’ll update this point when I find out.)
This doorbell supports dual-band wifi (2.4GHz and 5GHz) which is rare and is Google Home or Amazon Alexa compatible
Overall the LOREX 2k is an excellently priced video doorbell that can be integrated into a powerful home security ecosystem.
What I Like / Dislike about the Lorex
Reasons to Buy:
- Colored night vision
- A part of the Lorex Fusion Collection (smart home ecosystem)
- Included 32 GB microSD card
- Colored night vision
- Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa are compatible
- Dual-band wifi compatible (2.4GHz/5GHz)
Reasons to Avoid:
- Wired only; no battery-powered option
- Video is stored on the doorbell
6. Eufy 1080p Wifi Video Doorbell
Best 1080P Wireless Video Doorbell
Main Features
Making our list once again is Eufy with their 1080p video doorbell, a great budget-friendly alternative for those that don't need 2K high-resolution.
This doorbell is a little unique as it’s strictly battery-powered—you can’t hook it up to your wired doorbell system. However, it does come with an external wifi hub that sits in your home and acts as the chime.
It also has many of the same key features as other Eufy doorbells, including:
- Advanced AI Detection: Helps analyze detected motion to determine if it was caused by a human; helps reduce false alarms.
- Activity Zones: Draw out zones to tell the motion sensor where to look and where to ignore.
- Real-Time Video: Get alerts and check your doorbell video in real-time using the mobile app.
- Two-Way Audio: Respond and communicate to visitors in real time.
This model also has an internal rechargeable battery with a 120-day run time. It can be easily recharged using the hidden micro USB port on the back of the device.
Video & Playback Quality
This model has a high-definition 1080p front-facing camera and shoots with a 4:3 aspect ratio (1600x1200 resolution), giving you a great head-to-toe vertical view.
Night vision is a little fuzzy compared to the other doorbells on this list; that being said, it’s still crisp enough to distinguish the facial features of individuals standing at your door.
Data Storage and Usability:
Like all Eufy’s security camera products, this doorbell has no monthly fees, although they do offer cloud storage subscriptions if the need ever arises.
Video is stored locally on the external base station using MicroSD and utilizes AES 256-bit encryption to protect your doorbell video.
To use the local storage, you will have to purchase a MicroSD card; but they are quite inexpensive and give you a significant amount more storage than other doorbells with internal memory (for example, 512GB vs. 16GB).
Personally, I love the approach they take on this 1080p model over their more expensive doorbells that don’t allow you to expand the storage. I hope to see more doorbells utilize USB flash drives and MicroSD cards in the coming years.
Overall, this low-cost Eufy model is by far the best 1080p doorbell you can get and may even outclass the original Ring doorbell.
What I Like / Dislike about the Eufy 1080p
Reasons to Buy:
- Budget-friendly
- Compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assitant
- Expandable memory using a MicroSD card
- Rechargeable battery and long battery life; 120-days
Reasons to Avoid:
- Battery-powered only; can’t be hooked up to doorbell wires
- Lower resolution; 1080P
7. Amcrest 4MP Subscription Free Video Doorbell
Alternative Subscription-Free Video Doorbell
Main Features
The Amcrest Wired Video Doorbell is another great option if you are looking for a doorbell camera that does not require a monthly subscription.
This is a hard-wired only doorbell and uses your current doorbell wires (16V-24V). There is no battery-powered option. It also utilizes your existing mechanical or digital chime.
Some key features of the Amcrest include:
- AI Human Detection: Reduce false alarms by using AI to determine if the sensed motion was human or another object, such as a car, bird, or pet. Can be enabled/disabled in the app.
- Motion Detection Zones: Using the mobile app, you can exclude motion detection from specific areas to reduce false alerts, such as a busy sidewalk or your neighbor's driveway.
- Live View and Two-Way Audio: See who is at your door in real-time and communicate with them wirelessly through the mobile app. Amcrest audio is loud and clear.
- Mobile App Notifications: Get quick alerts as someone is approaching your door, and with the push of a button, access live-view. The Amcrest is impressive and snappy in this regard.
- Quick Responses: Pre-record messages like “GET OFF MY PORCH!!!” that can be quickly played to visitors with the push of a button.
Video & Playback Quality
The Amcrest has a 4MP sensor which gives you a 2560x 1920 resolution and a wide 164-degree field of view, so you won't miss a thing. You can also swap the resolution to 1080p in the app, which is uncommon—but a cool—feature.
It has WDR (Wide Dynamix Range), which can help reduce overexposed images on sunny days; this feature is impressive!
Nightvision also works fantastic and manages the exposure of nighttime video extraordinarily well.
In regards to video quality, there are no complaints!
Data Storage and Usability:
Something that gives me a slight pause about this doorbell is the manner in which the video is stored. The local storage on the doorbell.
All someone needs to do is tear the doorbell off the wall, and you lose all of your footage.
That being said, the Amcrest utilizes a MicroSD card to store video and is compatible with up to 128GB of storage—which is a lot for a doorbell.
Note the MicroSD card is not included; to use local storage, you will have to make that additional but inexpensive purchase. They also offer Amcrest Smart Home Subscription if you ever desire to move your video storage to the cloud.
There is no direct integration with Google Home or Amazon Alexa. However, it does work with Home Assistant, which can bridge to Google Home and Alexa. It also works with any NVR (network video recorder), which is extremely rare among video doorbells.
Finally, it’s compatible with dual-band Wi-Fi Networks (2.4GHz and 5GHz), which is rare among these types of devices.
Overall, the Amcrest ticks all the boxes of a good video doorbell. However, because it is wired-only, this is not a good choice for apartments or homes with a current doorbell system.
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 Assitant 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
Things to Consider when Buying a Smart Doorbell
When buying a doorbell camera, there are a few features and characteristics that you should consider before buying.
Understanding the following can ensure you get the best and most effective doorbell for you.
Battery-Powered vs. Wired
The first consideration is how to power your doorbell; will you hardwire it for continuous power or run it off batteries?
Most often, this decision will come down to whether or not you have an existing doorbell system to wire into—which most homes and condos do. If you have the wires, I’d recommend buying a doorbell that can be hardwired.
However, if you’re in an apartment or renting, you likely won’t have a doorbell system to wire into, in which case you’ll want a battery-powered device with a long run-time.
Additionally, renters probably can’t drill any mounting holes or add wires. In this case, you should consider a doorbell with a battery and alternative mounting hardware. You can check our guide of the best wireless video doorbells. Alternatively, you can consider looking into peephole cameras that mount on the inside of your door.
Video
A quality camera will provide you with a crisp image and good exposure, but it can also add to the cost of the device. There are four video characteristics to consider.
Resolution
Higher resolutions provide more pixels and generally a sharper image.
There are two common HD resolutions used on video doorbells today:
- 1080p: 1920 x 1080 pixels
- 2K/5MP: 2560 x 1920 pixels
I highly recommend getting 1080P or higher; anything lower will provide you with footage similar to bigfoot videos.
Aspect Ratio
The aspect ratio determines the width and height of your footage, which plays a critical role in what you can see. A camera with an aspect ratio of 16:9 will have a wider view and be less vertical. However, a more balanced aspect ratio of 3:4 will show more vertical space than horizontal.
In regards to doorbell cameras, a more balanced aspect ratio (such as 1:1, 4:3, 3:4) is ideal and shows more of your doorway.
Field of View
This determines how wide the camera can see. A 180-degree field of view can see more of your doorway than a 160-degree field of view. A higher field of view is also preferable, and I recommend 120 degrees or higher.
Night Vision
Most burglaries occur during the day, but that doesn't mean things don’t go bump in the night. Having good night vision on your camera is critical to protecting your home. There are various ways cameras can offer night vision, but infrared usually gives the best results.
Motion Detector Features
Modern doorbell cameras are improving at filtering out motion that isn't human—such as trees blowing in the wind, birds, and pets.
If you want to reduce as many false alarms as possible, I recommend getting a device that at least has human detection AI and activity zones; all of the cameras listed above have these features.
Audio and Two-Way Communication
The ability to communicate with those at your door, wherever you are in the world, is one of the most important features of doorbell cameras. Ideally, you want a doorbell that provides loud and crisp audio, as well as a functional and responsive mobile app that notifies when motion is detected and lets you quickly talk with those outside your door.
Storage
In the realm of subscription-less doorbells, video storage is an important point to consider —both storage space and where it is stored.
Storage Capacity
Doorbells typically store recorded video when motion is detected, and generally, 16 GB will be more than enough. You can always delete recordings to free up space or consider a doorbell with swappable/expandable storage, such as those that use SD cards.
Local Storage Location
When storing video camera footage locally, location means everything. Ideally, you want the footage to remain separate from the doorbell and in a safe location—such as in your home. If somebody steals your doorbell camera, the footage won’t do you much good if it's integrated into the door.
Connectivity
Most doorbell cameras are only compatible with a 2.4GHz wifi network, though some do support dual-band.
Additionally, if you have any smart home devices—such as Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, or Home Assistant—consider a doorbell that can integrate with your preferred service.
Durability
Another factor to truly consider is operation temperatures in extreme climates. Most video-quality cameras can withstand temperatures as high as 140 F (60C) and as low as -22 F (-20 C).
That being said, this is a "rating" range, and it doesn't mean that the camera will suddenly stop working if these temperatures are passed. Just a consideration if you live in an area of extreme temperatures.
I recommend looking for a device with an IP 65 rating or higher.
Final Thoughts
The best home security is one that is layered. Doors, locks, dogs, and security cameras are but obstacles, and like any good defense—the more obstacles and the more formidable they are, the better.
Doorbell cameras offer an extra layer of security designed to protect your home. By being able to see who is at your door, you can deter potential burglars, scare away porch pirates, and keep the things and people you value most safer.
Although Ring doorbells are one of the most sought-after smart doorbells, subscriptions suck, and there are honestly better products hitting the market that offer many of the features without paying the monthly fees!
My pick for the best doorbell camera without a monthly fee was the Eufy 2K. It offers excellent 2k video with a wide angle lens, night vision, a responsive mobile app live feed, 16GB of local storage, two-way talk, and is dual powered. It has few drawbacks and is from a company known for its excellent customer service and quick bug fixes.
I hope this guide helped you choose a video doorbell that is right for your home. They're an outstanding investment, and I’m sure you will enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing who is at your door.
Thanks for reading!
