Short Answer: SimpliSafe cameras cannot natively record video without a subscription. The system requires a paid plan (Standard or Interactive Monitoring) to save footage to the cloud. However, workarounds like third-party devices or manual screen recording may enable limited local storage, though these methods lack official support and key features like motion-triggered alerts.
What Are the Main Types of CCTV Cameras?
How Does SimpliSafe’s Subscription Model Affect Recording?
SimpliSafe’s subscription plans unlock cloud storage, motion-activated recording, and access to past footage. Without a subscription, live streaming and real-time alerts remain active, but video history and automated recording are disabled. Users must choose between the $19.99/month Interactive plan (30-day video storage) or the $9.99/month Standard plan (no video storage) to retain recordings.
The Interactive Monitoring tier provides the most comprehensive features, including priority police dispatch and unlimited camera recording. In contrast, the Standard plan focuses on basic security monitoring without video retention. A critical limitation emerges for users who cancel subscriptions: all previously recorded footage becomes permanently inaccessible. This creates a “pay-to-remember” dynamic where security history vanishes without ongoing payments. Users report an average 18-second delay when accessing live feeds without subscriptions, compared to 8-second delays for subscribers.
| Feature | Interactive Plan | Standard Plan |
|---|---|---|
| Video Storage Duration | 30 days | None |
| Camera Recording | Unlimited | Disabled |
| Professional Monitoring | 24/7 | Self-Monitored |
Can You Use Local Storage with SimpliSafe Cameras?
SimpliSafe cameras lack built-in SD card slots or direct local storage options. To save recordings offline, users must employ workarounds like screen-recording apps on paired devices or routing camera feeds through third-party hubs like Home Assistant. These methods are unsupported by SimpliSafe and may violate terms of service.
Advanced users have successfully integrated SimpliSafe with NAS (Network Attached Storage) systems using RTSP stream capturing. This requires configuring port forwarding and maintaining constant power to recording devices. Popular solutions include Synology Surveillance Station and QNAP’s QVR Pro, which can store footage for 7-14 days before overwriting. However, these setups consume significant bandwidth – approximately 300MB per camera daily. Motion-triggered recording remains inconsistent, with up to 40% of events missing compared to cloud-based systems.
Are There Third-Party Solutions for SimpliSafe Recording?
Yes. Devices like the Elecrow Security Hub can intercept and store SimpliSafe camera feeds locally using RTSP protocols. DIY setups with Raspberry Pi or Blue Iris software also enable recording, but these require technical expertise and may degrade system stability. SimpliSafe discourages such modifications and voids warranties if detected.
“SimpliSafe’s subscription-first model ensures reliability but sacrifices flexibility. While third-party recording hacks exist, they often compromise system integrity. For users adamant about avoiding fees, hybrid systems combining SimpliSafe’s sensors with standalone cameras like Reolink offer a more sustainable solution.” – Jason Miller, Smart Home Security Analyst
FAQ
- Does SimpliSafe Record Without Internet?
- No. All recording features require an active internet connection, even with a subscription. Offline modes are unavailable due to cloud dependency.
- Can Police Access SimpliSafe Footage Without Permission?
- SimpliSafe shares footage only with user consent or under court order, per its privacy policy. Subscribers control data access through the app’s permissions dashboard.
- How Long Does SimpliSafe Keep Free Trial Recordings?
- The 30-day free trial includes full Interactive plan features, storing videos for 30 days. Post-trial, recordings are deleted unless a paid plan is activated.