Should you use a security camera with local storage?

Home security cameras with local storage give homeowners a variety of benefits. One of the biggest perks is the freedom to maintain control of your video footage. Your clips aren’t uploaded to the cloud. Instead, they’re saved directly on the surveillance camera or on another device in your home. Continue reading to weigh your options and find where to find the best surveillance systems in St. Paul.

What’s best for your St. Paul home? Comparing local and cloud storage

Explore the differences between local and cloud storage to choose the best video cameras for your St. Paul home. Here is a quick comparison:

Local storage security cameras

• Recordings are saved on the camera or an on-site storage device, so you’re always in complete control. 
• You won’t have to stress about off-site servers and third-party access.
• Cameras can still record even if Wi-Fi or internet cuts off.
• You don’t have to deal with monthly subscription costs.
• Keep footage as long as you need (within storage limits).
• Vandalism of cameras could cause you to lose footage.
• MicroSD cards inside cameras and hard drives might come at an extra cost.

Cameras with cloud-based storage

• Footage is sent to cloud servers and secured by a third party.
• Video files are still available if cameras are vandalized.
• Simple to scale to meet changing needs.
• No on-site hardware needed.
• Typically includes a monthly subscription.
• Video won’t upload to the cloud if you lose internet service.
• Downloading and uploading video requires a good amount of bandwidth.

If you want total control over your footage, no subscription expenses, and the freedom to record without internet access, local storage is better. Just remember that cloud-based systems can sometimes access videos faster when you’re off site. 

Many residents choose a hybrid system that lets them send local video to the cloud. If the internet drops, you may still record locally. If your system is stolen or damaged, you can still find your footage in the cloud.

Why Vivint is the smart choice for St. Paul surveillance systems

Vivint’s state-of-the-art surveillance cameras provide a wealth of possibilities with both cloud and local storage available. Flexibility is the name of the game, and you’ll enjoy it from the leader in St. Paul smart homes. You may even opt for a hybrid installation with cameras hardwired to your home’s electrical system and wirelessly bridged to your smart security. You enjoy a constant power source and the freedom to mount cameras anywhere you want without running wires all over your house.

Count on flexibility and strong security with outdoor cameras that proactively deter theft by using audible and visible alerts. You’ll also get wide-angle viewing, night vision, and 4K imaging with zoom capabilities. Vivint’s cameras are easy to access in the Vivint app and work seamlessly with other smart home sensors.

Design your St. Paul smart home with Vivint’s modern surveillance cameras

Call (651) 240-6686 today to customize your new Vivint smart home in St. Paul. Our helpful representatives can answer any questions you have about cloud-based and local camera storage. We’ll help you design a system that provides unbeatable security and peace of mind.