10 Best Doorbell Cameras Without Subscription 2025 in the United States

The Arlo Video Doorbell 2K 2nd Gen offers a high-quality video experience with its 2K resolution, ensuring clear and detailed footage. Its 180-degree wide field of view allows you to see a comprehensive area around your doorway, including a head-to-toe perspective. This doorbell camera is versatile, as it can be used either wire-free or wired, catering to different installation preferences and power sources.

The built-in night vision feature ensures you can monitor your entryway even in low-light conditions. Integrated components such as two-way audio and a siren enhance its security capabilities, enabling you to communicate with visitors or deter intruders in real-time through the Arlo app. The fact that it is IP65 weather resistant makes it reliable for both indoor and outdoor use, standing up to various weather conditions.

While the Arlo Video Doorbell offers local storage options, maximizing its features like video sharing and extended storage requires an Arlo Secure Plan, which entails a subscription. This could be a drawback for those wanting to avoid additional costs. Additionally, the real-time notifications and live streaming provided by the Arlo app ensure you are always updated on any activity at your doorstep. The product comes with a variety of accessories for easy installation and is compatible with additional Arlo products like Chime 2 and Security Cameras, allowing for a more integrated home security system. The customer support options available via the Arlo app and website add another layer of user convenience. This doorbell camera is ideal for users seeking robust security features and high video quality without an initial need for a subscription, but who might be open to optional enhancements over time.

The AOSU Doorbell Camera Wireless is a solid option for those seeking a doorbell camera without a subscription. The 5MP Ultra HD video quality, enhanced by a 7-piece optical glass lens, ensures clear and detailed images even in varying light conditions. With a 166° field of view, you can see a wide area, including people from head to toe and packages on the ground, eliminating blind spots.

The triple motion detection system with radar, PIR sensors, and intelligent human detection minimizes false alerts by distinguishing between humans and animals. This doorbell camera offers 60 days of loop recording stored directly on the built-in 8GB HomeBase, removing the need for a monthly fee. Its battery life is impressive, with up to 180 days of coverage from a single charge, and the device can also be wired for power.

Additionally, it is compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, enhancing its smart home integration. However, its 8GB storage may be limiting for users who need to store a large amount of footage. This product is best suited for users looking for a reliable, no-subscription doorbell camera with good video quality and minimal maintenance.

The Google Nest Doorbell (Wired, 2nd Gen) is a robust choice for anyone looking for a wired doorbell camera without the need for a subscription. One of its standout features is its ability to differentiate between people, packages, animals, and vehicles, which helps users receive alerts tailored to their needs. With a wide 145-degree field of view, you can monitor your doorstep effectively, and the 720p HD video quality is decent for everyday surveillance. The doorbell also offers 3 hours of free event video history, allowing you to review important clips without any additional fees.

A major advantage of this wired model is that it doesn’t rely on batteries, eliminating the hassle of recharging. However, it does require a compatible chime and transformer, which can add to installation complexity if you don’t already have these components.

In terms of smart home compatibility, it works seamlessly with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, making it a great addition for users invested in those ecosystems. The two-way audio feature allows you to communicate with visitors, enhancing your home security. Plus, its eco-friendly design, made from 43% recycled materials, is a nice touch for environmentally conscious consumers. The Nest Doorbell’s video capture resolution is limited to 720p, which may not meet the expectations of users seeking higher resolution footage. Additionally, while the basic features are compelling, many of its more advanced functionalities (like familiar face detection and extended video history) require a Nest Aware subscription, which could be a drawback for users hoping to avoid any ongoing costs.

The Google Nest Doorbell (Wired, 2nd Gen) is a well-designed, efficient doorbell camera ideal for those who want reliable monitoring without a subscription. However, some may find the need for additional hardware and the limited video resolution a bit of a drawback.