Should you use a security camera with local storage?

Home security cameras with local storage provide homeowners a variety of benefits. One important perk is the ability to maintain total control of your video footage. Your clips aren’t uploaded to the cloud. Rather, they’re stored straight on the video camera or on another device in your home. Take a minute to evaluate your options and find where to find the best surveillance systems in Columbia.

What’s the right choice for your Columbia home? Compare the differences between local and cloud storage

Explore the key differences between local and cloud storage to find the ideal security cameras for your Columbia home. Review our quick comparison:

Local storage security cameras

• Footage is saved on the camera or a local storage system, putting you in full control. 
• You won’t have to stress about a third-party securing your video on remote servers.
• Cameras can still record even if internet or Wi-Fi cuts off.
• There are no monthly subscription fees.
• Hold on to footage for as long as you want (depending on storage capacity).
• Vandalism of cameras could result in loss of footage.
• Hard drives and microSD cards inside cameras might cost extra.

Cloud-based storage cameras

• Footage is sent to cloud servers and safeguarded by a third party.
• Video clips stay accessible if cameras are damaged.
• Simple to scale to match evolving needs.
• No on-site hardware required.
• Usually comes with ongoing subscription costs.
• Video can’t be uploaded to the cloud if you lose internet service.
• Downloading and uploading video requires plenty of bandwidth.

If you’re looking for strict control over your video, no recurring fees, and the capability of recording without being online, local storage is better. Keep in mind that if you expect to regularly watch footage away from home, cloud-based systems might be faster. 

Many families opt for a hybrid approach that allows them to upload local footage to the cloud. If the internet goes down, you may still record locally. If your system is stolen or damaged, you can still access your recordings in the cloud.

Why Vivint is the top choice for Columbia surveillance systems

Vivint’s advanced video cameras provide many possibilities with both local and cloud storage available. Flexibility is important, and you’ll get it from the trusted name in Columbia smart homes. You may even opt for a hybrid configuration with cameras wired into your home’s electricity and wirelessly connected to your security system. You benefit from a constant power source and the freedom to place cameras wherever you want, without running wires throughout your house.

You get flexibility and strong security with outdoor cameras that proactively deter theft via audible and visible warnings. You’ll also enjoy broad viewing angles, night vision, and 4K images with zoom functionality. Vivint’s cameras are simple to access on the Vivint app and integrate in harmony with other smart home sensors.

Design your Columbia smart home with Vivint’s advanced video cameras

Call (803) 921-0946 today to build your new Vivint smart home in Columbia. Our helpful agents can answer any questions you have about cloud-based and local camera storage. We’ll help you determine a system that offers outstanding security and convenience.