Should you use a security camera with local storage?

Security cameras with local storage give homeowners a variety of benefits. One of the most notable perks is the chance to maintain complete control of your footage. Your clips aren’t sent to the cloud. Instead, they’re stored directly on the camera or on a separate device in your home. Take a moment to weigh your options and see where to get the leading surveillance systems in Grand Rapids.
What’s better for your Grand Rapids home? Comparing local and cloud storage
Check out the main differences between local and cloud storage to choose the right security cameras for your Grand Rapids home. Here’s our quick breakdown:
Cameras with local storage
- Recordings are stored on the camera or a local storage device, keeping you in total control.
- You won’t have to stress about third-party access and off-site servers.
- Cameras keep recording even if Wi-Fi or internet service stops working.
- You don’t have to pay monthly subscription charges.
- Hold on to footage as long as you like (contingent on storage capacity).
- Camera damage could mean lost footage.
- Hard drives and microSD cards added to cameras might come at an extra cost.
Cameras with cloud-based storage
- Recordings are sent to remote servers and secured by a third party.
- Video files stay accessible if cameras are vandalized.
- Easy to scale to meet evolving needs.
- No on-site hardware required.
- Generally comes with ongoing subscription costs.
- Video can’t be uploaded to the cloud if your internet drops.
- Uploads and downloads require ample bandwidth.
If you prefer total control over your footage, no subscription fees, and the freedom to record without being online, local storage is a good choice. Just remember that if you expect to regularly view footage away from home, cloud-based systems might be quicker.
Many homeowners choose a hybrid plan that allows them to send video to the cloud. If the internet cuts out, you may still save locally. If your system is stolen or damaged, you can still access your footage in the cloud.
Why Vivint is the right choice for Grand Rapids surveillance
Vivint’s cutting-edge surveillance cameras offer a hybrid approach with both local and cloud storage available. Flexibility is important, and you’ll find it from the trusted name in Grand Rapids smart homes. You may even opt for a hybrid installation with cameras hardwired to your home’s electrical panel and wirelessly bridged to your security system. You benefit from a constant power source and the opportunity to situate cameras anywhere you need them without running wires across your house.
You get flexibility and powerful security with outdoor cameras that proactively deter crime via sound and light. You’ll also get wide viewing angles, night vision, and 4K video with zoom capabilities. Vivint’s cameras are easy to access through the Vivint app and work seamlessly with your other smart home components.
Equip your Grand Rapids smart home with Vivint’s advanced surveillance cameras
Call (616) 747-8419 today to build your new Vivint smart home in Grand Rapids. Our knowledgeable representatives can answer any questions you have about local and cloud-based camera storage. We’ll help you determine a system that offers unbeatable security and peace of mind.