In an age where security is more crucial than ever, smart home devices like Ring cameras have become a common fixture in households. These devices not only provide peace of mind but also enable homeowners to monitor their property remotely. However, many users find themselves wondering: How long does Ring camera keep video footage? This article aims to uncover the answer to this question while also diving into various factors that influence video storage and retention duration.
The Basics Of Ring Video Storage
Ring cameras operate under a subscription model, which directly impacts how long the video footage is stored. When you acquire a Ring device, it typically includes a free trial of the Ring Protect Plan, allowing you to access video recording features. However, after the trial period, you will need to subscribe to a plan to continue using these features.
Ring Protect Plans: Understanding Their Importance
Ring offers different subscription options that determine how long your videos are kept. The two primary plans are:
- Basic Plan: This plan is tailored for a single camera. It includes video storage for up to 60 days, giving you ample time to review any recorded footage.
- Plus Plan: This is designed for multiple devices. It provides video storage for a maximum of 60 days across all your connected Ring devices.
Without a subscription, you will not be able to store or review video footage. Instead, you will only have live view capabilities.
Factors Influencing Video Retention
While the Ring Protect Plans provide a clear guideline for video retention, several factors can affect how long your footage is available.
Subscription Level
As previously mentioned, the storage duration is predominantly determined by the subscription plan you select. If you only pursue a Basic Plan for a single camera, your footage will still only be retained for up to 60 days. On the other hand, opting for the Plus Plan allows for multiple camera connections within the same time frame.
Camera Settings And Usage
The settings you configure on your Ring camera can also influence how often videos are generated. For example:
Motion Detection Settings
The motion detection settings determine when your cameras begin capturing video. If you have motion detection set to ‘high,’ your cameras may record more frequently, leading to an increased amount of video stored over the same period. Conversely, if you restrict the camera’s sensitivity or disable motion alerts altogether, you may find fewer clips retained.
Live View Usage
Regular use of the Live View feature can lead to longer video clips being stored, thereby consuming your available storage space more rapidly. If you frequently engage with this option, be mindful that it may affect how much recorded footage you have left at the end of the retention period.
How To Download And Manage Recorded Videos
If you wish to keep footage beyond the 60-day limit, you can download videos from your Ring account. Here’s how to manage your recordings:
Downloading Recorded Videos
To ensure you do not lose important data, follow these steps to download your videos:
- Open the Ring App or go to the Ring website.
- Select the device from which you want to download the video.
- Choose the video clip you wish to download, then click on the download icon.
- The video will be saved to your device for future reference.
Managing Storage Space
Being proactive about managing your stored footage can help you make the most out of your subscription:
- Regularly check and delete unnecessary videos.
- Prioritize essential footage for downloading.
Setting up alerts for significant events can further streamline this process, allowing you to focus on what matters most.
Comparing Ring To Other Security Cameras
While Ring cameras have established themselves as reliable home security devices, it is essential to recognize how they compare to other brands regarding video storage.
Other Popular Security Cameras
Numerous alternatives exist, each with its unique features and video storage capabilities. Some noteworthy options include:
| Brand | Video Retention Duration | Subscription Plans |
|---|---|---|
| Arlo | Up to 60 days | Basic, Premier, and Elite plans |
| Nest Cam | Up to 30 days | Aware subscription plans |
| Wyze Cam | Up to 14 days (with optional cloud storage) | Cam Plus subscription |
When choosing the right camera, it’s crucial to consider not only video retention time but also overall value, including features and customer service.
Best Practices For Utilizing Your Ring Camera
To maximize the effectiveness of your Ring camera, here are some tips and best practices:
Optimize Camera Placement
Strategic placement of your camera can significantly enhance its performance. Consider the following:
- Position the camera at eye-level for optimal footage quality.
- Ensure the camera has a clear view of the monitored area without obstructive objects.
Regularly Update Your Settings
Keep your camera’s software updated for improved functionality and security. Adjust your motion sensitivity levels based on seasonality, such as increased activity during holidays.
Conclusion
In summary, Ring cameras typically keep video footage for up to 60 days under their Protect Plans. However, this duration can vary based on your subscription level, camera settings, and usage patterns. By understanding how video storage works, effectively managing your recordings, and utilizing your device optimally, you can make the most out of your Ring camera.
Investing in security is not just about purchasing a device; it’s about making informed choices for your unique circumstances. Embrace the peace of mind that comes with knowing your home is monitored effectively while having control over your recorded footage.
How Long Does Ring Keep Video Footage For Free Users?
The length of time that Ring keeps video footage for free users is typically limited to a rolling 60-day window. This means that any video recordings older than 60 days will automatically be deleted to accommodate new footage. Free users rely on the basic functionality of the device without the additional cloud storage that paid subscription plans offer.
Free users can still access live streaming and receive instant notifications when motion is detected. However, without a subscription, they won’t be able to save videos for longer durations or download important clips. For those who require access to video history beyond 60 days, considering a subscription plan may be beneficial.
What Are The Storage Options For Ring Camera Footage?
Ring offers two main storage options for its camera footage: a free plan and a subscription service. The free plan allows users to access live feeds and basic notification features, but video footage is deleted after 60 days. This option may be suitable for those who only need brief access to their recordings without long-term storage.
The subscription service, known as Ring Protect, allows for longer storage periods, enabling users to save videos for up to 180 days. Users on this plan also have the ability to share clips, download footage, and create custom alerts. It’s an excellent choice for individuals who want to maintain an organized video library over an extended period.
Can I Download My Ring Camera Footage?
Yes, users can download their Ring camera footage if they are subscribed to the Ring Protect plan. This feature is advantageous because it allows individuals to save specific recordings for their personal records or to share with law enforcement if needed. The downloadable footage can also be useful for reviewing events in detail or for home security assessments.
To download footage, users can access their recordings from the Ring app or website, select the desired video, and choose the download option. A simple video file will then be saved to their device. However, users should keep in mind that downloaded videos are not stored in the Ring cloud, so it’s essential to keep backups on their local devices.
What Happens To My Footage If I Cancel My Ring Protect Subscription?
If you decide to cancel your Ring Protect subscription, you will lose access to any stored video footage beyond the 60-day limit for free users. Although you can still access live view capabilities and receive motion alerts, all your saved videos that exceed the free storage period will be deleted. It’s crucial to download any important recordings before canceling to avoid unintended loss.
Furthermore, without the subscription, subsequent recordings will also be deleted after 60 days. If you find value in having longer access and the ability to manage your video footage effectively, it could be beneficial to reconsider keeping the subscription active to enjoy the additional benefits it provides.
Does Ring Camera Footage Get Saved Locally?
No, Ring camera footage does not get saved locally on the device itself. All video recordings are stored in the cloud, which allows users to access them from any device with the Ring app or through a web browser. This cloud-storage approach ensures that users can retrieve their footage from various locations and devices, providing a highly flexible solution for security monitoring.
However, for users concerned about privacy or those who want offline access, there are methods to download and back up important footage manually from the cloud. These downloaded videos can then be stored on local devices, ensuring that they have a copy of critical recordings outside of the Ring ecosystem.
How Can I Extend The Storage For My Ring Camera Footage?
To extend the storage for your Ring camera footage, the most effective way is to subscribe to the Ring Protect plan. This subscription service enhances your storage capabilities, allowing you to keep recordings for up to 180 days compared to the standard 60-day window available to free users. The plan also provides additional benefits like advanced features and shared access for other users.
Besides subscribing, another effective method to manage video footage is to regularly download important clips and save them on an external hard drive or cloud storage service. This practice ensures that critical videos are preserved without relying solely on Ring’s cloud storage and extends your archival options.