Should you use a security camera with local storage?

Security cameras with local storage give homeowners an array of benefits. One important advantage is the chance to maintain total control of your video footage. Your recordings aren’t sent to the cloud. Instead, they’re stored straight on the camera or on a standalone on-site storage device. Keep reading to compare your options and find where to find the top surveillance systems in Washington DC.

What’s the right choice for your Washington DC home? Explore how local and cloud storage differ

Explore the main differences between local and cloud storage to choose the right security cameras for your Washington DC home. Here’s our quick breakdown:

Local storage cameras

• Recordings are kept on the camera or an on-site storage system, putting you in total control. 
• You won’t have to stress about third-party access and remote servers.
• Cameras can still record even if Wi-Fi or internet goes down.
• You don’t have to deal with monthly subscription fees.
• Save footage as long as you need (contingent on storage capacity).
• Damage to cameras might result in loss of footage.
• MicroSD cards included with cameras and hard drives may be an added expense.

Cameras with cloud-based storage

• Video is kept on remote servers and safeguarded by a third party.
• Video files remain accessible if cameras are damaged.
• Simple to scale to meet evolving needs.
• Additional storage hardware not required.
• Usually includes a subscription fee.
• Video can’t be uploaded to the cloud if you lose internet.
• Downloading and uploading video requires a good amount of bandwidth.

If you’re looking for strict control over your footage, no monthly expenses, and the freedom to record without an internet connection, local storage is a good choice. Note that if you expect to regularly view footage away from home, cloud-based systems may be quicker. 

Many families go with a hybrid plan that permits them to send local video to the cloud. If the internet cuts out, you can still keep recordings locally. If your system is damaged, you can still retrieve your clips in the cloud.

Why Vivint is the right choice for Washington DC surveillance

Vivint’s cutting-edge surveillance cameras provide many possibilities with both local and cloud storage options available. What you want is flexibility, and you’ll get it from the respected name in Washington DC smart homes. You may even opt for a hybrid installation with cameras wired into your home’s electricity and wirelessly connected to your security system. You enjoy a constant power source and the ability to situate cameras anywhere you want, without running wires across your house.

You’ll have 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 images with zoom capabilities. Vivint’s cameras are easily accessible through the Vivint app and work in harmony with your other smart home components.

Design your Washington DC smart home with Vivint’s advanced surveillance cameras

Call (202) 780-3214 today to build your new Vivint smart home in Washington DC. Our skilled staff can answer any questions you have about cloud-based and local camera storage. We’ll help you design a solution that delivers unbeatable security and peace of mind.