Best outdoor security cameras UK no subscription: how to choose & top picks
With so many choices available, it can be difficult to choose the particular model of the camera that would best suit your requirements.
In this article, you will learn all the advantages of using no-subscription security cameras in the UK and a guide on how to choose the best outdoor security cameras with no subscription.
In addition, Reolink also recommends some of the best outdoor security cameras UK no subscription.
Why choose no subscription security cameras?
There are several key reasons you may want to opt for a security camera that doesn't require an ongoing monthly or annual fee:
Cost Savings: No-subscription cameras allow you to avoid monthly fees, which can add up over time. This makes them more budget-friendly, especially if you need multiple cameras.
Ease of Use: No subscription cameras are plug-and-play. Once set up, you don't need to manage a subscription or renewals.
Remote Access & Control: Most no-subscription cameras offer apps and remote viewing. You can check in anytime from your smartphone without a recurring fee.
Local Storage: Footage is stored locally on an SD card or hard drive rather than in the cloud. This allows you to retain control over your data.
How to select the best outdoor security cameras in the UK with no subscription
When choosing an outdoor security camera without a subscription, some key features exist to evaluate. Here is how to select the best outdoor security cameras without a subscription in the UK:
Weather Resistance
Since outdoor cameras will be exposed to the elements, selecting a camera rated for all-weather use is crucial. Look for an IP rating higher than IP65, which indicates the camera is dust-tight and can withstand rain and snow. Units with an operating temperature range of -4°F/-20°C will ensure continuous performance in cold UK winters.
Power supply and connectivity
Outdoor cameras need a constant power source. Wired options like PoE (Power over Ethernet) cameras connect to your home router and draw power through the ethernet cable. Wireless cameras may rely on rechargeable batteries charged via solar panels or by periodically plugging them into an outlet.
For wireless cameras, WiFi and LTE connectivity options affect placement flexibility and range from your WiFi router. WiFi cameras typically work within 30-50 feet of your home router. At the same time, LTE connectivity lets you install cameras anywhere with cellular service.
Local storage
Since no-subscription cameras don't rely on cloud storage, an SD card slot or built-in hard drive is required to save and access recorded video footage. Local storage capacity varies widely from 16GB to 512 GB. Select a camera with ample onboard storage for your needs or the ability to add an external hard drive.
Field of view and range
The camera's field of view determines how much area it can cover from its installed position. A wide 140°+ FOV provides an expansive surveillance area.
Longer-range night vision is also important for capturing details in low light. Cameras with 100-foot night vision or more are ideal for most outdoor spaces.
Smart features
AI person and vehicle detection, motion zones, and real-time alerts will help focus recordings on important events. Opting for a camera with robust smart features will also save you time reviewing footage.
Best outdoor wireless security cameras UK no subscription
Wireless security cameras are ideal if running ethernet cables isn't practical. Here are two top-rated wireless outdoor cameras that don't need a subscription:
Best Battery-Powered Outdoor Security Camera No Subscription - Reolink Argus 4 Pro
The Reolink Argus 4 Pro is a versatile 100% wire-free 4K outdoor security camera powered by a large 5000mAh rechargeable battery that has an extended lifespan. It features a 180-degree field of view with no blind spots, ensuring complete coverage of the surveillance area. The 4K HD video resolution and colour night vision provide sharp imagery day and night. The camera has a weatherproof IP65-rated housing designed to withstand dust, rain, and temperature extremes.
Pros:
4K UHD image quality with 180-degree field of view
Full color night vision without relying on visible spotlights
Extended battery life and solar panel for charging
Ease of installation and setup
Cons:
Non-removable battery
No black-and-white night vision
Best wireless solar battery outdoor camera with pan and tilt - Reolink Argus PT
The Reolink Argus PT is a 100% wire-free 5MP security camera powered solely by an integrated solar panel and rechargeable battery. Its flexible placement requires no electrical outlet. The camera can pan a full 355 degrees and tilt 140 degrees with auto-tracking to keep subjects in the frame. The 5MP camera captures super HD 2K+ resolution video for crisp image quality. The patented solar panel technology provides continuous power even on cloudy days in the UK.
Pros:
Excellent 2K+ 5MP video resolution
Local storage directly onto 128GB SD card
Infrared night vision with 6 IR LEDs
Cons:
Built-in siren and speaker not loud enough
Best Outdoor Wired Security Cameras UK No Subscription
Wired PoE security cameras offer reliable performance and easy installation. Here are two top-rated subscription-free wired outdoor cameras for UK homes:
Best wired PoE outdoor security camera system - Reolink RLK8-800B4
The Reolink RLK8-800B4 is a 4K PoE security camera system ideal for large homes. It includes four weatherproof cameras with ultra HD 4K video for sharp imagery day and night. The advanced AI detection recognises people, cars, and pets to reduce false alerts. Ample 2TB onboard storage saves footage from all cameras with no subscription needed. The 8-channel NVR allows centralized management of the eight cameras.
Pros:
4K UHD video quality
Affordable price tag without extra costs
Easy to expand with Reolink PoE or wireless cameras
Cons:
Limited smart home compatibility
Best PTZ camera without subscription for outdoor - Reolink TrackMix PoE
The Reolink TrackMix PoE security camera is perfect for monitoring driveways and yards. It features a versatile dual-lens system with wide-angle and optical zoom views. The advanced AI auto-tracking locks onto and follows moving objects detected in the frame. The camera captures highly detailed 4K video and has a weatherproof IP66 housing.
Pros:
Convenient pan & tilt preset points
6X optical zoom for more details
Robust and waterproof body
Accurate motion detection and auto-tracking
Cons:
Limited PTZ control on PC client
Installation and Setup Tips for Outdoor Security Cameras without Subscription
Installing outdoor security cameras on your own is straightforward when following some essential tips:
- Mount cameras 7-10 ft off the ground, pointing down at a slight angle for optimal surveillance coverage area
- For wired cameras, drill small holes to route ethernet cables into your attic or crawl space, where they will connect to your router.
- Use outdoor-rated CAT5e or CAT6 ethernet cables and waterproof cable connectors.
- Seal cable holes with silicone caulk to prevent water intrusion and insect entry.
- Adjust camera angle and field of view using the app during setup; pan, tilt, and zoom cameras make aiming easy.
- Enable notifications and customise motion detection zones and smart alerts only to get notified when needed.
Taking time to optimise the camera position and settings during initial installation will ensure you capture relevant security events without sorting through excessive footage.
FAQs
Which security cameras do not require a monthly subscription?
Reolink offers a wide range of wired and wireless subscription-free security cameras for indoor and outdoor use. Always confirm subscription requirements before purchasing any security camera system from top brands.
What are the best security cameras for outside the UK?
Top-rated outdoor cameras from Reolink are ideal for the UK. Reolink cameras offer key features including weatherproofing, long-range night vision, extended battery life, and local storage options. Advanced motion and person detection features also make these cameras perfect for outdoor use.
Are security cameras worth it in the UK?
Absolutely - security cameras are one of the best ways to deter crime and protect your home. No-subscription cameras offer affordable, upfront costs with no recurring fees. Plus, features like motion alerts, real-time video access, and two-way audio let you remotely monitor your property for added peace of mind.
Conclusion
Outdoor security cameras are among the best security measures that you can adopt to improve security around your compound. Tech attributes to look for when choosing outdoor cameras are weatherproof, power source, storage, resolution, and intelligence.
Regarding features, Reolink offers PoE and wireless no-subscription security cameras that do not require subscriptions for use, long-lasting battery life, 4K ultra HD resolution, and AI person/vehicle detection options. This allows you to monitor outside your home effectively, even with a camera from a reputable manufacturer, without paying for continuing services.