If you own a Ring doorbell and want to save your videos without subscribing to a paid plan, we have good news for you.
In this article, we will share alternative methods to help you store your Ring doorbell videos without the need for a subscription.
Ring doorbells have become a popular choice for smart home security, but the subscription-based video recording feature can be costly.
We understand that not everyone wants to commit to a monthly or yearly fee to save their doorbell videos, and that’s why we’re here to help.
Keep reading to discover the best ways to store your Ring doorbell videos without spending a dime on subscriptions.
How Does a Ring Doorbell Work?
Ring doorbells are an innovative smart home security solution that offers a range of features to enhance your doorbell experience.
Understanding how a Ring doorbell works will help you make the most of this modern technology.
When someone approaches your door, the motion sensor integrated into the Ring doorbell detects the movement.
This triggers an alert that is sent to your smartphone, allowing you to view a live feed of your front door.
With a clear video feed, you can see and interact with the person at your door, even if you’re not at home.
Installing a Ring doorbell is a straightforward process, and the device is designed to be user-friendly.
You can easily connect it to your existing doorbell wiring or use it with a rechargeable battery.
Once installed, you can customize the settings to suit your preferences, such as adjusting the motion sensitivity or setting up motion zones.
Smart Doorbell Features
- Live video feed: Get a real-time view of your doorstep from anywhere.
- Two-way communication: Speak to visitors through the doorbell’s built-in microphone and speaker.
- Motion detection: Receive instant alerts when someone approaches your door.
- Night vision: Ensure clear visibility, even in low-light conditions.
- Video recording: Record and review footage of any detected motion.
- Cloud storage: Store recorded videos in the Ring cloud for later viewing.
Table: Comparison of Ring Doorbell Models
| Model | Video Resolution | Field of View | Power Options | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ring Video Doorbell | 720p HD | 180 degrees | Battery or hardwired | $99.99 |
| Ring Video Doorbell 2 | 1080p HD | 160 degrees | Removable battery pack or hardwired | $169.99 |
| Ring Video Doorbell 3 | 1080p HD | 160 degrees | Removable battery pack or hardwired | $199.99 |
Each Ring doorbell model offers its own set of unique features and price points, allowing you to choose the one that best fits your needs and budget.
Whether you’re looking for basic functionality or advanced capabilities, Ring doorbells provide a convenient and effective way to monitor and secure your front door.
Ring Doorbell Video Recording with Subscription
By default, Ring doorbells record videos when motion is detected or the doorbell is rung.
However, to access and save these recorded videos, a Ring Protect subscription is required.
The subscription allows you to store videos in the cloud for a certain period of time, depending on your plan.
Without a subscription, you can only access the live view of your doorbell.
With a Ring Protect subscription, you can choose from different plans that offer video storage for 30 days, 60 days, or even 365 days.
This ensures that you have access to your recorded videos for an extended period.
The subscription also provides additional benefits like advanced motion detection, custom motion zones, and the ability to share videos with friends and family.
If you decide to subscribe to Ring Protect, you can easily manage your subscription through the Ring app or website.
The cost of the subscription starts at $3 per month for a single device and goes up to $10 per month for unlimited devices.
You can also opt for an annual subscription to save even more.
Table: Ring Protect Subscription Plans
| Plan | Number of Devices | Video Storage Duration | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic | 1 | 30 days | $3 |
| Plus | 1 | 60 days | $10 |
| Unlimited | Unlimited | 60 days | $10 |
Having a Ring Protect subscription gives you peace of mind, knowing that your recorded videos are securely stored in the cloud.
However, if you prefer not to pay for a subscription, there are alternative methods to save your Ring doorbell videos without a subscription.
These methods include using the 30-day free trial of Ring Protect, screen recording on your phone, or using a computer to record the screen.
You can also explore video doorbell alternatives that don’t require a subscription, providing you with cost-effective options for video storage.
How Long Does Ring Doorbell Save Videos without Subscription?
Without a subscription, you can access the live view of your Ring doorbell, but the videos are not stored for long-term playback.
The duration of video storage without a subscription varies depending on the location.
In the UK, it defaults to 30 days, while in the US, it defaults to 60 days.
To have longer-term storage of Ring doorbell videos, a Ring Protect subscription is required.
Video Storage Duration without Subscription by Region
| Region | Default Video Storage Duration |
|---|---|
| United Kingdom | 30 days |
| United States | 60 days |
While the default storage duration is limited without a subscription, it’s important to note that Ring doorbell videos can be manually downloaded and saved to external devices during this period.
This allows you to retain important footage for a longer period, even without a subscription.
For those who require extended video storage and prefer not to subscribe to a paid plan, alternative methods such as screen recording on your phone or using a computer to record the screen can be utilized.
These methods allow you to save the videos locally without relying on Ring’s cloud storage. However, it’s essential to have sufficient storage space on your device or computer to accommodate the recorded videos.
Pros and Cons of Saving Ring Doorbell Videos without Subscription
- Pros:
- Access to live view without a subscription
- Ability to manually download and save videos during the default storage duration
- Cost-effective alternative to paid subscription plans
- Cons:
- Limited default storage duration (30 days in the UK, 60 days in the US)
- Requires manual effort to download and save videos
- Potential need for additional storage space on devices or computers
Using the 30-Day Free Trial of Ring Protect
If you’re hesitant about committing to a Ring Protect subscription, you’ll be pleased to know that Ring offers a 30-day free trial of Ring Protect.
This allows you to fully experience all the features of a premium subscription plan without any cost.
During the trial period, you can save your Ring doorbell videos in the cloud for up to 180 days, giving you ample time to explore the benefits of long-term video storage.
This is an excellent opportunity to test the product and determine if you need to store your doorbell recordings in the long run.
The 30-day free trial of Ring Protect is a great way to get a taste of the premium features and decide if a subscription is necessary for your needs.
It’s a risk-free option that allows you to save your Ring doorbell videos without a subscription, giving you peace of mind and the ability to make an informed decision.
Table: Comparison of Ring Protect Plans
| Features | Free Plan | Basic Plan ($3/month) | Plus Plan ($10/month) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Video Doorbell | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Video History | – | 60 days | 60 days |
| Video Saving & Sharing | – | ✓ | ✓ |
| Professional Alarm Monitoring | – | – | ✓ |
| Extended Warranty | – | – | ✓ |
The table above provides a quick comparison of the features included in each Ring Protect plan.
While the free plan allows you to access the live view of your doorbell and receive notifications, the Basic and Plus plans offer additional benefits such as longer video history and the ability to save and share videos.
Keep in mind that after the 30-day free trial, you’ll need to choose a subscription plan if you decide to continue using Ring Protect.
Take advantage of this trial period to explore the features and decide on the plan that best fits your needs and budget for saving your Ring doorbell videos without a subscription.
Screen Recording on Your Phone
When it comes to saving your Ring doorbell videos without a subscription, one option is screen recording on your phone.
Many newer smartphones, such as Samsung models, come equipped with a built-in screen recording feature.
This allows you to record your Ring doorbell videos when you receive an alert, giving you the ability to save them for future reference.
To use this method, simply enable the screen recording feature on your phone and make sure it’s set to record audio as well.
When you receive a notification from your Ring doorbell, start the screen recording.
You’ll be able to capture the video feed and any audio, giving you a complete recording of the event.
It’s important to note that screen recording requires you to actively see the alert on your phone and initiate the recording.
If you miss the notification, you won’t be able to save the video.
However, this method is free and doesn’t require any additional equipment or subscriptions, making it a cost-effective DIY solution for saving your Ring doorbell videos.
Recording Ring Doorbell Videos on Your Computer
If you prefer not to rely on a subscription or screen recording on your phone, you can use your computer to record your Ring doorbell videos.
This method allows you to capture all the videos without relying on your phone’s alerts. Here’s how you can do it:
Step 1: Log in to the Ring website
Open your preferred web browser on your computer and navigate to the Ring website. Log in to your Ring account using your registered email address and password.
Step 2: Access the live feed
Once you’re logged in, you’ll be able to access the live feed from your Ring doorbell camera. Click on the appropriate camera device to view the live video feed.
Step 3: Start recording
Using a free screen recording tool on your computer, start recording the screen while the live video feed is playing.
You can find various screen recording software options available for both Windows and Mac computers.
By recording the screen, you can save the entire video footage from your Ring doorbell.
However, keep in mind that this method can be time-consuming to review the footage and requires sufficient disk space on your computer.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Allows you to store Ring doorbell videos locally | Requires screen recording software and sufficient disk space |
| Records the entire footage without relying on phone alerts | It can be time-consuming to review the recorded videos |
| Provides a backup option for your Ring doorbell videos | May not be as convenient as cloud storage options |
Using your computer to record Ring doorbell videos provides a reliable method to store the footage locally.
However, keep in mind the potential drawbacks, such as the need for screen recording software, sufficient disk space, and the time required to review the recorded videos.
Evaluate these factors before deciding if this method is suitable for your specific needs and preferences.
Ring Doorbell Video Storage Alternatives
If you prefer not to rely on a subscription or screen recording, there are alternative video doorbell options available.
These options provide a cost-effective way to store your Ring doorbell videos without a subscription.
Below is a comparison table of some popular video doorbell cameras that offer local video storage:
| Video Doorbell | Storage Option | Monthly Fees | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cree Lighting | Local storage via microSD card | No monthly fees | 1080p HD video, night vision, two-way audio |
| Eufy | Local storage via HomeBase | No monthly fees | 2K resolution, AI facial recognition, and motion detection |
| Lorex | Local storage via DVR/NVR | No monthly fees | 4K resolution, weatherproof design, remote viewing |
| Netatmo | Local storage via built-in microSD card | No monthly fees | Smart AI detection, customizable alerts, and person detection |
| TP-Link | Local storage via microSD card | No monthly fees | Crystal clear video, two-way audio, and motion detection |
| Google Nest | Local storage via Nest Hub Max | No monthly fees | Smart display integration, facial recognition, and voice control |
These video doorbells offer various storage options, including local storage via microSD cards or centralized systems like HomeBase, DVR/NVR, or built-in storage.
The best option for you depends on your specific requirements and preferences.
By choosing one of these alternatives, you can save your Ring doorbell videos without the need for a subscription.
These cameras provide reliable video storage and allow you to access your recordings whenever you need them.
Benefits of No Subscription Ring Doorbell Video Storage:
- No monthly fees: By opting for a video doorbell with local storage, you eliminate the need for recurring subscription fees.
- Privacy: Storing your videos locally ensures that your footage is not stored on cloud servers, providing added privacy and security.
- Convenience: With local storage, you can access your videos directly from the device or system without relying on an internet connection.
- Long-term storage: Many of these alternative options offer ample storage capacity, allowing you to retain video recordings for extended periods.
- No reliance on the Internet: By storing videos locally, you are not dependent on a stable internet connection for accessing or storing your footage.
Consider these alternative video doorbell options to save your Ring doorbell videos without a subscription. Assess the features and specifications of each camera to find the one that best suits your needs and provides the desired level of video storage.
Conclusion
When it comes to saving your Ring doorbell videos without a subscription, you have several options to choose from.
While a Ring Protect subscription offers convenient video storage, there are alternative methods available.
First, you can take advantage of the 30-day free trial of Ring Protect.
This trial allows you to test the service and save your videos for a limited period, giving you a chance to evaluate if the subscription is necessary for your needs.
If you prefer a DIY approach, you can use your phone’s screen recording feature to capture and save your Ring doorbell videos.
This method is free but requires you to actively initiate the recording when you receive an alert on your phone.
Another option is to record your Ring doorbell videos on your computer using a free screen recording tool.
This lets you capture all the videos without relying on your phone’s alerts.
However, it’s important to note that this method can be time-consuming to review the footage and requires sufficient disk space.
Lastly, if you’d rather not rely on a subscription or screen recording, there are video doorbell alternatives available that don’t require ongoing fees.
Companies like Cree Lighting, Eufy, Lorex, Netatmo, TP-Link, and some newer Google Nest models offer video doorbell cameras that record video locally, providing a cost-effective way to store your Ring doorbell videos without a subscription.
Choose the method that best fits your needs and budget for saving your Ring doorbell videos without a subscription.
Whether it’s through a free trial, screen recording, computer recording, or exploring alternative video doorbell options, you can still enjoy the benefits of saving your videos without the added cost of a subscription.
