The Blink Outdoor Camera, in particular, offers advanced features to ensure the safety of your property. But the question that often arises is whether Blink requires a subscription for its services. Let’s dive into the details and find out.
Key Takeaways:
- Blink’s Outdoor Camera does not technically require a subscription for basic features like motion detection, two-way audio, and live feeds.
- Without a subscription, users cannot save video clips, which limits their ability to review footage and provide evidence if needed.
- Blink offers subscription plans starting at $3 per month, providing additional features like extended video storage, person detection, and video sharing.
- Users can also opt for local storage using the Sync Module 2 hub and a USB drive for an alternative to cloud storage.
- Subscribing to Blink camera plans offers benefits such as motion-activated notifications, rapid video access, live streaming, extended video history, and more.
Features of the Blink Outdoor Camera without a Subscription
When it comes to the Blink Outdoor Camera, users can still enjoy a range of impressive features even without a subscription. While certain functionalities are limited, the camera offers essential capabilities that enhance home security. Let’s take a closer look at the features available without a subscription:
Motion Alerts
The Blink Outdoor Camera provides motion alerts, allowing users to receive notifications when activity is detected in specific areas. This feature provides real-time updates and helps users stay informed about potential security concerns.
Two-Way Audio
With the two-way audio feature, users can communicate with visitors or potential intruders through the camera’s built-in speaker and microphone. This feature adds an extra layer of convenience and security by enabling remote conversations.
Live Feeds
The Blink Outdoor Camera offers live feeds that allow users to monitor their property in real-time from anywhere. With just a few taps on the Blink app, users can access the camera’s live video stream and keep an eye on their surroundings.
While motion alerts, two-way audio, and live feeds provide valuable functionality, it’s important to note that certain features are not available without a subscription. Without a subscription, users are unable to save video clips, which may limit their ability to review footage and provide evidence if needed.
Additionally, without a subscription, users are limited to five-minute Live View sessions. This means that continuous monitoring for extended periods might not be possible without a subscription.
Furthermore, key features such as Person Detection and video sharing are exclusive to subscription plans and are not accessible without an active subscription.
How Video Storage Works with the Blink Outdoor Cam
When it comes to video storage, the Blink Outdoor Cam offers convenient options through its subscription plans. Let’s take a closer look at how these plans work and what they have to offer.
Blink Outdoor Cam Subscription Plans
With the Blink Outdoor Cam, users have access to two subscription plans: the Basic Plan and the Plus Plan. These plans provide different levels of video storage and additional benefits to enhance your security experience.
| Plan | Cost | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Plan | $3 per month | Active video recording for one device |
| 60-day cloud storage for video clips | ||
| Option to back up eligible clips to a USB drive using the Sync Module 2 hub | ||
| Plus Plan | $10 per month | All features of the Basic Plan |
| Support for unlimited devices | ||
| Additional benefits like custom snooze and a device discount |
With the Basic Plan, you can enjoy active video recording for one device and store video clips in the cloud for up to 60 days. This ensures that you have access to past recordings whenever you need them. Additionally, the Sync Module 2 hub allows you to back up eligible clips to a USB drive, providing an extra layer of security and peace of mind.
If you require support for multiple devices or want to take advantage of additional features like custom snooze and a device discount, the Plus Plan is the perfect choice. This plan offers all the benefits of the Basic Plan plus support for unlimited devices, giving you the flexibility to expand your Blink system as needed.
Whether you choose the Basic Plan or the Plus Plan, you can have confidence in knowing that your Blink Outdoor Cam videos are securely stored and easily accessible whenever you need them.
Local Storage Option for the Blink Outdoor Camera
The Blink Outdoor Camera offers a convenient local storage option for users through the Sync Module 2 hub. With the Sync Module 2, users can take advantage of local storage without the need for a subscription. This allows for greater control over their video footage and an alternative to relying solely on cloud storage.
To access local storage, users can follow these simple steps:
- Purchase the Sync Module 2 for a one-time fee of $35.
- Configure the Sync Module 2 with your Blink app and Outdoor Camera.
- Insert a USB drive into the module.
By inserting a USB drive into the Sync Module 2, users can store their recorded video footage without any additional costs or subscriptions. This gives them the ability to save and manage their videos directly through the Blink app.
Having local storage ensures that users have complete control over their video recordings without relying on an internet connection. This is especially useful in cases where the internet may be unstable or unavailable, enabling users to access their footage at any time.
The Sync Module 2 and local storage option provide an added layer of flexibility and peace of mind for Blink Outdoor Camera users. Whether you prefer cloud storage or the convenience of storing footage locally, Blink offers a solution that fits your needs.
Using the Blink Outdoor Cam with Local Storage
For users who prefer local storage over cloud-based options, the Blink Outdoor Cam offers the flexibility to store recorded video footage directly on a USB drive. To set up local storage, follow these steps:
- Purchase the Sync Module 2 which acts as a hub for connecting your Blink app and Outdoor Camera.
- Connect the Sync Module 2 with your Blink app and Outdoor Camera using the provided instructions.
- Insert a configured USB drive into the Sync Module 2 to enable local storage.
Once the local storage is configured, the Blink app provides an intuitive interface to monitor and manage all your recorded videos. It allows easy access to view, download, and delete specific footage as needed. Ensure that you keep your Outdoor Camera and Sync Module 2 updated through the Blink app for optimal functionality.
Take a look at the diagram below for a visual representation of setting up and using the Blink Outdoor Cam with local storage:
| Steps | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Purchase the Sync Module 2 |
| 2 | Connect the Sync Module 2 with the Blink app and Outdoor Camera |
| 3 | Insert a USB drive into the Sync Module 2 for local storage |
| 4 | Manage recorded videos through the Blink app |
Note: The Sync Module 2 and USB drive must be purchased separately from the Blink Outdoor Cam.
Can Blink and SimpliSafe be used together in a home security system?
Yes, SimpliSafe and Google Home integration allows for the use of Blink and SimpliSafe together in a home security system. With this integration, homeowners can enjoy the benefits of both systems working together seamlessly to provide comprehensive security coverage for their homes.
Benefits of Subscribing to Blink Camera Plans
Subscribing to Blink camera plans provides users with a range of valuable benefits that enhance both functionality and security. With a Blink camera plan, users can enjoy motion-activated notifications, ensuring that they never miss any important activity around their home. It allows for rapid video access, providing immediate visibility into recorded footage whenever needed.
Live streaming is another advantage of Blink camera plans, enabling users to monitor their property in real-time from anywhere, using their smartphone or computer. The extended video history feature allows for the storage of recorded video clips in the cloud, ensuring that users can access and review footage even after an extended period of time.
In addition to these features, subscribing to a Blink camera plan offers video sharing capabilities, which allows users to easily share important video clips with family, friends, or law enforcement if needed. Furthermore, subscribers can enjoy a device discount, making it more affordable to expand their Blink camera system. Finally, with a subscription, users also receive an extended warranty, providing added peace of mind and protection for their Blink devices.