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Smart doorbells without subscription
Our Take
“I’m looking for a video doorbell that doesn’t require a monthly subscription. I just want to be able to see who’s at the door and review clips when needed without another ongoing bill.”
This sentiment, echoed across forums like Reddit and Quora, perfectly captures a growing frustration with the smart home industry. For years, the market has been dominated by brands that lock essential features—like video history and advanced motion detection—behind expensive, recurring subscriptions. People often ask if it’s worth upgrading to a new smart doorbell only to get hit with a hidden cost that adds up over time.
Fortunately, the landscape has changed. A new generation of smart doorbells without subscription fees has emerged, offering robust local storage options that put you back in control of your data and your wallet. This guide is for anyone who wants a powerful video doorbell without the financial tether of a monthly plan. We’ve sifted through the noise to find the best options that provide peace of mind without a surprise bill at the end of the month.
Quick Comparison: Best No-Subscription Doorbells
| Smart Doorbell | Resolution | Storage | Power | Notable Feature | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eufy Video Doorbell E340 | 2K (2048×1536) | Local storage via HomeBase (16GB built-in) | Battery or Wired | Dual-camera system, AI motion detection | Best overall subscription-free doorbell | Mid ($150–$180) |
| Lorex 2K Wired Doorbell | 2K (2560×1920) | microSD (up to 256GB), NVR compatibility | Wired (hardwired) | Color night vision, HDR, 164° FOV | Best for wired, high-quality video | Mid ($110–$140) |
| Aqara Smart Doorbell G4 | 1080p Full HD | microSD, NAS, or iCloud (optional) | Battery or Wired | Apple HomeKit Secure Video integration | Best for Apple HomeKit users | Mid ($120–$160) |
| Reolink Video Doorbell (WiFi/PoE) | 2K+ (5MP, 2560×1920) | microSD (up to 256GB), NVR/NAS options | Wired (PoE) or WiFi | 24/7 continuous recording, RTSP support | Best for tech-savvy users & NVR setups | Mid ($110–$140) |
| TP-Link Tapo D225 | 2K (2304×1296) | microSD (up to 512GB), NVR support | Battery or Wired | Affordable, 180° ultra-wide FOV | Best budget smart doorbell | Budget ($80–$100) |
Best Smart Doorbells Without Subscription
1.Eufy Video Doorbell E340: Best Overall Subscription-Free Option
The Eufy Video Doorbell E340 is an excellent example of a high-end smart doorbell with no subscription fees. Eufy established its reputation on the no-hidden-charges promise, and the E340 does exactly that with a specification list that puts the competition from companies such as Ring and Nest in the same league. The reason behind its popularity is that the product is based on local storage system, which can be a microSD card on the device itself or an optional Eufy HomeBase. The model is among the favorites when long-term use and high-quality solution is desired.
Features & Specs
Dual-Camera System: A standout feature is its two-camera setup—one a standard 2K camera and a second, downward-facing camera to monitor packages on your doorstep.
Local Storage: Comes with 8GB of built-in storage, allowing you to store video clips directly on the device. An optional HomeBase can expand this storage and integrate with other Eufy devices.
Power Options: It can be used as a battery-powered unit or wired to existing doorbell connections for continuous power.
AI Detection: Built-in AI provides intelligent alerts for people and packages without a subscription.
Included Chime: A battery-powered chime is included in the box.
Pros & Cons
Pros
No subscription fees
dual-camera system
good video quality
local storage
easy to install
battery or wired options
Cons
Some users report a slight delay in alerts
the battery is not easily swappable
a third-party smart home integration can be limited without the HomeBase.
Who Should Buy:
This is the ideal choice for homeowners who want the most comprehensive view of their doorstep and are committed to avoiding monthly fees. It’s a great fit for those with a Eufy security ecosystem or anyone starting from scratch.
Features & Specs
2K QHD Resolution: Provides a superior level of detail with 2K Quad HD resolution.
Local Storage: Records directly to a microSD card (up to 256GB, sold separately), eliminating cloud storage fees.
Color Night Vision: Uses a spotlight to provide full-color video even in low-light conditions.
Wired-Only Power: This is a wired-only device, which means it gets continuous power and provides a more reliable connection than battery-powered models.
Pros & Cons
Pros
No subscription fees
dual-camera system
good video quality
local storage
easy to install
battery or wired options
Cons
Some users report a slight delay in alerts
the battery is not easily swappable
a third-party smart home integration can be limited without the HomeBase
Who Should Buy:
This is the ideal choice for homeowners who want the most comprehensive view of their doorstep and are committed to avoiding monthly fees. It’s a great fit for those with a Eufy security ecosystem or anyone starting from scratch.
