Should you use a security camera with local storage?

Surveillance cameras with local storage give families many benefits. One important perk is the chance to maintain control of your video. Your recordings aren’t sent to the cloud. Instead, they’re kept right on the surveillance camera or on a standalone device in your home. Take a minute to weigh your options and find where to get the best surveillance systems in Chicago.

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

Explore the key differences between local and cloud storage to determine the ideal security cameras for your Chicago home. Here is a quick comparison:

Cameras with local storage

• Clips are saved on the camera or an on-site storage device, so you’re always in full control. 
• You don’t have to worry about a third-party keeping your video secure on remote servers.
• Cameras can still record even if Wi-Fi or internet service goes down.
• You don’t have to pay monthly subscription charges.
• Save footage as long as you like (within storage limits).
• Damage to cameras could result in lost footage.
• MicroSD cards included with cameras and hard drives might come at an extra cost.

Cameras with cloud-based storage

• Video is kept on cloud servers and secured by a third party.
• Video clips are still available if cameras are damaged.
• Easy to scale to accommodate different needs.
• Extra storage hardware not needed.
• Generally comes with a monthly subscription.
• Video won’t upload to the cloud if you lose internet.
• Uploading and downloading video requires plenty of bandwidth.

If you’re looking for tight control over your recordings, no subscription expenses, and the ability to record without an internet connection, local storage is best. Just remember that cloud-based systems can often access clips quicker when you’re not at home. 

Many families opt for a hybrid system that allows them to back up recordings to the cloud. If the internet drops, you can still record locally. If your system is damaged, you can still retrieve your recordings in the cloud.

Why Vivint is the top choice for Chicago surveillance

Vivint’s state-of-the-art surveillance cameras give you many possibilities with both cloud and local storage available. What you want is flexibility, and you’ll enjoy it from the respected name in Chicago smart homes. You may even get a hybrid installation with cameras wired into your home’s electrical panel and wirelessly connected to your smart security. You benefit from a reliable power source and the freedom to place cameras wherever you need them without running wires throughout your house.

Count on flexibility and strong security with outdoor cameras that proactively deter prowlers via light and sound. You’ll also get wide-angle viewing, night vision, and 4K video with zoom capabilities. Vivint’s cameras are easily accessible in the Vivint app and integrate seamlessly with other smart home components.

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

Contact (312) 626-4802 today to customize your new Vivint smart home in Chicago. Our skilled agents are pleased to address any questions you have regarding cloud-based and local camera storage. We’ll help you design a system that offers unbeatable security and convenience.