United States · USD · data checked 2026-10-27
Outdoor cameras with local storage, no subscription
28 outdoor cameras in our catalog match, 28 of them recording without a plan. The cheapest recorded United States listings are TP-Link Tapo C120 ($39.99), Wyze Cam v4 ($44.98) and Reolink Argus MagiCam ($64.99); 7 others have no recorded United States price yet. 3-year cost ranges from $40 to $250: hardware plus 36 months of the cheapest plan that records.
Models with an explicit no-subscription recording entry and a local-storage entry, including the wireless battery and solar models. The 3-year cost is the hardware price because no plan is needed to save video.
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| Model | Power | Local storage | Lens · resolution | Cloud plan | Price | 3-year cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TP-Link Tapo C120 | Plugs into an outdoor outlet | microSD up to 512 GB | 103° · 2K | None | $39.99 | $40 |
| Wyze Cam v4 | Plugs into an outdoor outlet | microSD up to 256 GB, 24/7 local recording | 98.5° · 2.5K | None | $44.98 | $45 |
| Reolink Argus MagiCam | Rechargeable battery | microSD up to 256 GB | 113.3° · 1080p | None | $64.99 | $65 |
| TP-Link Tapo C425 KIT | Solar + battery | microSD up to 512 GB or Tapo H200 hub | 122° · 2K | None | $69.99 | $70 |
| Wyze Solar Cam Pan 2K | Solar + battery | microSD up to 512 GB | 108° · 2K | None | $79.98 | $80 |
| TP-Link Tapo C460 | Rechargeable battery | microSD up to 512 GB or Tapo H200 hub | 113° · 4K | None | $84.99 | $85 |
| eufy Solar Wall Light Cam S120 | Solar + battery | 8 GB built in | — | None | $99.99 | $100 |
| Reolink RLC-820A PoE Bullet | PoE | records to a Reolink NVR (or microSD on models that have a slot) | 87° · 4K | None | $99.99 | $100 |
| SwitchBot Outdoor Spotlight Cam 2K | Rechargeable battery | microSD up to 256 GB | — · 2K | None | $99.99 | $100 |
| eufy SoloCam E42 | Solar + battery | microSD up to 128 GB; HomeBase optional | 130° · 4K | None | $119.99 | $120 |
| TP-Link Tapo C325WB ColorPro | PoE | microSD up to 512 GB | 106° · 2K | None | $119.99 | $120 |
| Reolink Solar Floodlight Cam | Solar + battery | microSD up to 512 GB | 124.5° · 2K | None | $128.99 | $129 |
| eufy eufyCam C37 4K | Solar + battery | microSD up to 256 GB; HomeBase optional | 135° · 4K | None | $129.99 | $130 |
| Reolink Argus Eco Ultra | Solar + battery | microSD up to 512 GB; Home Hub optional | 105° · 4K | None | $139.99 | $140 |
| Wyze Cam Floodlight Pro | Hardwired to an existing light fixture | microSD up to 256 GB | 180° · 2.5K | None | $149.98 | $150 |
| Reolink E1 Outdoor Pro | Plugs into an outdoor outlet | microSD up to 512 GB; FTP/NAS, Home Hub or NVR | 94° · 4K | None | $149.99 | $150 |
| Reolink Argus 4 Pro | Solar + battery | microSD up to 512 GB; Home Hub optional | 180° · 4K | None | $179.99 | $180 |
| eufy SoloCam S340 | Solar + battery | 8 GB built in; HomeBase S380 optional | 135° · 3K | None | $199.99 | $200 |
| eufy Floodlight Camera E340 | Hardwired to an existing light fixture | microSD up to 128 GB; HomeBase S380 optional | 135° · 3K | None | $219.99 | $220 |
| Reolink Altas PT Ultra | Rechargeable battery | microSD up to 512 GB | — · 4K | None | $219.99 | $220 |
| Reolink Elite Floodlight WiFi | Hardwired to an existing light fixture | microSD up to 512 GB; Home Hub or NVR optional | 180° · 4K | None | $249.99 | $250 |
| Amcrest SmartHome ASH22 Outdoor Wi-Fi Bullet | Plugs into an outdoor outlet | microSD up to 256 GB | 102° · 1080p | None | Not published | |
| Amcrest SmartHome ASH26 Wi-Fi Floodlight Camera | Hardwired to an existing light fixture | microSD up to 256 GB | 114° · 1080p | None | Not published | |
| Aqara Camera G100 | Plugs into an outdoor outlet | microSD up to 512 GB | — · 2K | None | Not published | |
| Lorex 4K Spotlight Battery Wi-Fi Camera (F861ASD) | Rechargeable battery | microSD up to 256 GB | 111° · 4K | None | Not published | |
| TP-Link Tapo C425 KIT V2 | Solar + battery | Up to 512 GB; card sold separately. H500 connection supported for C425 V1/V2. | — · 2K | None | Not published | |
| TP-Link Tapo C675D KIT | Solar + battery | Up to 512 GB microSD; card sold separately. H500 or H200 hub connection supported. | 140.8° · Dual | None | Not published | |
| Wyze Battery Cam Pro | Rechargeable battery / Solar + battery | microSD up to 256 GB | 108° · 2.5K | None | Not published |
Prices are recorded USD offers with a checked date, not live quotes. Missing local prices or plan fees stay unpriced; no currency conversion or other-region fallback. Manufacturer specs, not our tests; a blank lens or storage cell means the maker did not publish it.
Read before you choose
What you give up without a plan, and what storage you still need
Sources & checks
Specifications come from each maker's page, checked on the date shown; prices are the recorded store listings on each model page. How we compute the 3-year cost.
- TP-Link Tapo C120: manufacturer specifications · checked 2026-09-15
- Wyze Cam v4: manufacturer specifications · checked 2026-09-15
- Reolink Argus MagiCam: manufacturer specifications · checked 2026-09-15
- TP-Link Tapo C425 KIT: manufacturer specifications · checked 2026-09-15
- Wyze Solar Cam Pan 2K: manufacturer specifications · checked 2026-10-27
- TP-Link Tapo C460: manufacturer specifications · checked 2026-09-15
- eufy Solar Wall Light Cam S120: manufacturer specifications · checked 2026-09-15
- Reolink RLC-820A PoE Bullet: manufacturer specifications · checked 2026-09-15
- SwitchBot Outdoor Spotlight Cam 2K: manufacturer specifications · checked 2026-09-15
- eufy SoloCam E42: manufacturer specifications · checked 2026-09-15
- TP-Link Tapo C325WB ColorPro: manufacturer specifications · checked 2026-09-15
- Reolink Solar Floodlight Cam: manufacturer specifications · checked 2026-09-15
- eufy eufyCam C37 4K: manufacturer specifications · checked 2026-09-15
- Reolink Argus Eco Ultra: manufacturer specifications · checked 2026-09-15
- Wyze Cam Floodlight Pro: manufacturer specifications · checked 2026-09-15
- Reolink E1 Outdoor Pro: manufacturer specifications · checked 2026-09-15
- Reolink Argus 4 Pro: manufacturer specifications · checked 2026-10-27
- eufy SoloCam S340: manufacturer specifications · checked 2026-10-27
- eufy Floodlight Camera E340: manufacturer specifications · checked 2026-09-15
- Reolink Altas PT Ultra: manufacturer specifications · checked 2026-09-15
- Reolink Elite Floodlight WiFi: manufacturer specifications · checked 2026-09-15
- Amcrest SmartHome ASH22 Outdoor Wi-Fi Bullet: manufacturer specifications · checked 2026-09-15
- Amcrest SmartHome ASH26 Wi-Fi Floodlight Camera: manufacturer specifications · checked 2026-09-15
- Aqara Camera G100: manufacturer specifications · checked 2026-09-15
- Lorex 4K Spotlight Battery Wi-Fi Camera (F861ASD): manufacturer specifications · checked 2026-09-15
- TP-Link Tapo C425 KIT V2: manufacturer specifications · checked 2026-09-16
- TP-Link Tapo C675D KIT: manufacturer specifications · checked 2026-09-16
- Wyze Battery Cam Pro: manufacturer specifications · checked 2026-09-15
Reviewed recording configurations
9 exact US configurations, checked against official documentation (latest review: 2026-09-29). These are documentation reviews, not hardware tests. The Planner uses these same facts to show storage allowances, 3/5-year costs and what remains without a paid recording plan.
A local-storage label does not establish continuous recording, smart alerts, offline operation or cloud retention. “Not verified” means this review has not established that feature. Prices keep their own recorded offer dates.
eufy SoloCam S340 · solar · Built-in storage
- 8 GB built-in storage; HomeBase 3 features and shared-storage limits are outside this reviewed route.
- Solar charging and event frequency affect battery endurance.
| Without a paid plan | Status | Conditions & evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Local recording | Available | Local video is stored on the device without a recording subscription.Official source |
| Local playback | Not verified | This review does not establish this feature after a paid plan ends. |
| Continuous video | Unavailable | The model FAQ explicitly excludes 24/7 recording, including with HomeBase 3.Official source |
| Smart detection | Available | Human and vehicle detection run locally. Face recognition is a separate HomeBase 3 capability.Official source |
| Paid cloud video history | Not verified | This review does not establish this feature after a paid plan ends. |
Source sections: Local Storage; FAQ: local AI and 24/7 recording. Review: HowManyCameras editorial process — AI-assisted review of official documentation; no hardware testing.
TP-Link Tapo C120 · plug in · Camera microSD recording
- US product documentation; verify the hardware revision at purchase.
- microSD card up to 512 GB, purchased separately; use the camera card slot in this configuration.
| Without a paid plan | Status | Conditions & evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Local recording | Conditional | Local video does not require a recording subscription; install and configure a compatible microSD card.Official source |
| Local playback | Not verified | This review does not establish this feature after a paid plan ends. |
| Continuous video | Not verified | This review does not establish this feature after a paid plan ends. |
| Smart detection | Available | On-device smart detection is listed without a subscription. Detection categories differ by model.Official source |
| Paid cloud video history | Unavailable | Tapo Care cloud video history requires the paid service; local storage is separate.Official source |
Source sections: Local/cloud storage; free AI detection; recording-mode footnotes. Review: HowManyCameras editorial process — AI-assisted review of official documentation; no hardware testing.
TP-Link Tapo C425 KIT · solar kit · Camera microSD recording
- US product documentation; verify the hardware revision at purchase.
- microSD card up to 512 GB, purchased separately; use the camera card slot in this configuration.
| Without a paid plan | Status | Conditions & evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Local recording | Conditional | Local video does not require a recording subscription; install and configure a compatible microSD card.Official source |
| Local playback | Not verified | This review does not establish this feature after a paid plan ends. |
| Continuous video | Not verified | This review does not establish this feature after a paid plan ends. |
| Smart detection | Available | On-device smart detection is listed without a subscription. Detection categories differ by model.Official source |
| Paid cloud video history | Unavailable | Tapo Care cloud video history requires the paid service; local storage is separate.Official source |
Source sections: Local/cloud storage; free AI detection; recording-mode footnotes. Review: HowManyCameras editorial process — AI-assisted review of official documentation; no hardware testing.
TP-Link Tapo C460 · battery · Camera microSD recording
- US product documentation; verify the hardware revision at purchase.
- microSD card up to 512 GB, purchased separately; use the camera card slot in this configuration.
| Without a paid plan | Status | Conditions & evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Local recording | Conditional | Local video does not require a recording subscription; install and configure a compatible microSD card.Official source |
| Local playback | Not verified | This review does not establish this feature after a paid plan ends. |
| Continuous video | Conditional | Continuous Capture uses interval images when no object is detected, then switches to standard recording on detection. It is not a full-frame continuous video timeline.Official source |
| Smart detection | Available | On-device smart detection is listed without a subscription. Detection categories differ by model.Official source |
| Paid cloud video history | Unavailable | Tapo Care cloud video history requires the paid service; local storage is separate.Official source |
Source sections: Local/cloud storage; free AI detection; recording-mode footnotes. Review: HowManyCameras editorial process — AI-assisted review of official documentation; no hardware testing.
Reolink Argus 4 Pro · with Solar Panel 2 · Camera microSD recording
- microSD up to 512 GB. This configuration uses camera storage, not a Home Hub.
- Select the camera + Solar Panel 2 kit at the retailer.
| Without a paid plan | Status | Conditions & evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Local recording | Conditional | Local video does not require a recording subscription; install and configure a compatible microSD card.Official source |
| Local playback | Not verified | This review does not establish this feature after a paid plan ends. |
| Continuous video | Not verified | This review does not establish this feature after a paid plan ends. |
| Smart detection | Not verified | This review does not establish this feature after a paid plan ends. |
| Paid cloud video history | Not verified | This review does not establish this feature after a paid plan ends. |
Source sections: Diverse Local Storage, No Monthly Fees; technical specifications. Review: HowManyCameras editorial process — AI-assisted review of official documentation; no hardware testing.
Reolink Altas PT Ultra · battery · Camera microSD recording
- microSD up to 512 GB; solar panel is optional in this battery configuration.
- Continuous recording endurance depends on settings, charge and available energy.
| Without a paid plan | Status | Conditions & evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Local recording | Conditional | Local video does not require a recording subscription; install and configure a compatible microSD card.Official source |
| Local playback | Not verified | This review does not establish this feature after a paid plan ends. |
| Continuous video | Conditional | Continuous recording is supported, but endurance depends on energy supply. The solar claim assumes Solar Panel 2 and the stated direct-sun conditions; that panel is not in this configuration.Official source |
| Smart detection | Not verified | This review does not establish this feature after a paid plan ends. |
| Paid cloud video history | Not verified | This review does not establish this feature after a paid plan ends. |
Source sections: Pre-recording; local storage; solar/recording footnote. Review: HowManyCameras editorial process — AI-assisted review of official documentation; no hardware testing.
Reolink E1 Outdoor Pro · plug in · Camera microSD recording
- microSD up to 512 GB; provide continuous plug-in power.
- NVR, FTP and Home Hub routes are outside this reviewed camera-card configuration.
| Without a paid plan | Status | Conditions & evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Local recording | Conditional | Local video does not require a recording subscription; install and configure a compatible microSD card.Official source |
| Local playback | Available | Saved local video can be replayed and filtered in the Reolink playback interface.Official source |
| Continuous video | Conditional | 24/7 recording is a listed recording mode; sufficient card storage and continuous power are required.Official source |
| Smart detection | Not verified | This review does not establish this feature after a paid plan ends. |
| Paid cloud video history | Not verified | This review does not establish this feature after a paid plan ends. |
Source sections: FAQ: subscription; Easy & Smart Playback; Recording Modes. Review: HowManyCameras editorial process — AI-assisted review of official documentation; no hardware testing.
Wyze Cam v4 · plug in · Camera microSD recording
- The page lists 256 GB in the recording/specification sections and 512 GB in an accessory FAQ. Confirm current card compatibility; no 512 GB guarantee is made here.
- Outdoor use requires the separately sold Wyze Outdoor Power Adapter.
- Additional purchase to budget: Outdoor Power Adapter for outdoor installation.
| Without a paid plan | Status | Conditions & evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Local recording | Conditional | Local video does not require a recording subscription; install and configure a compatible microSD card.Official source |
| Local playback | Not verified | This review does not establish this feature after a paid plan ends. |
| Continuous video | Conditional | 24/7 local recording requires a microSD card and continuous power. Outdoor power protection is an additional purchase.Official source |
| Smart detection | Unavailable | The reviewed page places advanced AI alerts in Cam Plus. Basic motion detection is a different feature.Official source |
| Paid cloud video history | Unavailable | Cloud video backup is provided through Cam Plus, separate from local card recording.Official source |
Source sections: 24/7 Recording with MicroSD Card; specifications; outdoor-adapter footnote; accessory FAQ. Review: HowManyCameras editorial process — AI-assisted review of official documentation; no hardware testing.
Wyze Battery Cam Pro · Battery · Camera microSD recording
- microSD up to 256 GB tested in the official guide.
- Without Cam Plus, Events Only local clips are about 12 seconds with a recording cooldown.
- For continuous recording Wyze recommends 5V 2A AC power; battery or solar-only power is not recommended.
| Without a paid plan | Status | Conditions & evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Local recording | Conditional | Card recording remains available. Without Cam Plus, Events Only clips are about 12 seconds with a cooldown; continuous mode has separate power requirements.Official source |
| Local playback | Conditional | Use SD Card Playback on the configured Wi-Fi network, or eject the card and read its MP4 files on a computer.Official source |
| Continuous video | Conditional | Continuous card recording needs adequate power. Wyze recommends a 5V 2A AC source and warns of rapid battery drain; it is not recommended on battery/solar alone.Official source |
| Smart detection | Unavailable | AI alerts are a Cam Plus feature on the reviewed page; basic motion-triggered events remain distinct.Official source |
| Paid cloud video history | Unavailable | Cam Plus cloud video storage is separate from microSD recording and needs the paid service.Official source |
Source sections: Using MicroSD Cards With Battery Cam: Continuous and Events Only Recording. Review: HowManyCameras editorial process — AI-assisted review of official documentation; no hardware testing.
Cost method and evidence limits · No-subscription buying guide