Unlike all security cameras, blink cams also need storage to collect all recorded videos. Here, you get two options: local or USB drive and cloud storage. Users can save their recorded events for free using the thumb drive. However, the functionality and features are limited in this case.
So here comes the Blink subscription plan that supports cloud storage and other add-on services. This Blink Plus plan supports sync modules to connect and run smoothly. On the other hand, USB drives only work with sync module 2 to store data.
Indeed, free local storage options come with limitations, while the Blink subscription model offers complete features of the security cameras. This guide explains the details of the Blink subscription plan and compares it with the free option. That’s how you can make informed decisions about their paid storage.
Does Blink Require a Subscription?
Generally, Blink cameras don’t need a subscription plan to run and save data. You can use these devices for free. You need a USB drive connected to the sync module 2 to collect recorded events. However, the features are limited with this option. Users only get live view, two-way audio, Alexa compatibility and motion alert features from the security cam.
On the opposite blink, the subscription plan comes with more options, including activity zones, privacy zones, extended live view, etc.
Once you newly install and register to the Blink camera, you get a 30-day free blink plus subscription. Here, you can enjoy all the paid features of the Blink app. Once the trial expires, you can pay for their plus plan or use the free local storage option. It is helpful if you don’t need extra features and are willing to save a few bucks on storage.
Features and Benefits of Blink Subscription Plan
Blink offers two subscription models for users: a basic plan and a premium plan. The key differences between these plans are the number of connected devices, extended features and prices. You can register one camera with the app with a basic Blink subscription. However, you can connect multiple devices with different basic plans in a single blink app.
On the other hand, premium plans offer unlimited paired options for blink systems. Additionally, you get bonus facilities including extended warranty, discount and others.
Basic plans cost nearly $3 per month or $30 per year on each device. In contrast, premium subscriptions cost $10 per month and nearly 100 bucks per year with unlimited camera access. You also get lifetime device coverage and a 10% discount on additional accessory purchases from Amazon.
After a subscription plan, you can delete multiple recorded events from the cloud storage. Paid accounts also enable auto local storage backup by integrating with the USB drive.
Basic Features Without Blink Subscription Plan
You can use Blink camera without a subscription, but the features are limited. Firstly, you get live video watch for up to five minutes at a time. Secondly, you get two-way audio or talk with outside visitors using the Blink Home monitor app. Thirdly, you receive a notification when the camera detects motion.
To record and save the live events, you need a USB drive that is only comfortable with sync module 2. You can also access this data in the Blink app for up to 60 days. With a Basic plan, you can delete one video clip at a time from the blink app.
You should always monitor the available storage in your USB. With the basic plan, the Blink app won’t send storage alerts or unlimited access to the data.
Blink Subscription Pricing
There is a basic and premium Blink subscription plan. Both plans offer cloud storage, and common security features include motion detection, alerts, video recording, and live view. The basic plan costs $3 per month, while the plus plan costs around $100 annually.
However, you can enjoy other benefits with premium plans like discounts, extended live view, bonus features, etc. Below is a quick comparison between Blink Basic and Premium Plus subscriptions.
Features |
Blink basic |
Blink plus |
Monthly cost |
$3 |
$10 |
Yearly cost |
$30 |
$100 |
Cloud video recording |
Yes |
Yes |
Cloud storage |
Yes |
Yes |
Motion activated video recording |
Yes |
Yes |
live view recording |
Yes |
Yes |
live view streaming |
Yes |
Extended up to 90 minutes |
local storage backup |
Yes |
Yes |
camera compatibility |
One at a time |
Unlimited |
Warranty |
One year warranty |
Lifetime on subscription |
Discounts |
No |
10% on blink accessory purchases from amazon |
Activity zones |
No |
Yes |
Privacy zones |
No |
Yes |
In short, blink plus plan offers complete features and benefits of blink security cams. Additionally you get extended warranty, discount and bonus facilities. Generally speaking, the plus plan is much better for users with multiple blink cameras.
FAQs
Below are the most asked questions related to the topic. Drop down to get your quick answers.
Is Blink Useless Without a Subscription?
No blink security cameras can work without a subscription. Here, you can enjoy general security features like live view, two-way audio, motion alerts, etc. To record and review the events, you need paid plans.
How Long is Blink Free Subscription?
Blink offers a 30-day free trial for their plus plan subscription. This free trial starts once you set up the cam and purchase from Amazon. Once it expires, you can choose the paid plan or the free version.
What is in the Blink Subscription Plus Plan?
Blink subscription plus plan offers complete access to Blink cameras and its app. Users can connect all Blink models from a single Blink Plus account. Additionally, the bonus and facilities are higher in this subscription model.
What Happens When the Blink Free Trial Ends?
Once the 30-day free trial expires, all recorded events start deleting from your cloud storage. Generally, the videos last for 60 days before it’s gone.
Is Blink Hard to Cancel?
You can easily cancel your Blink membership through mail or in person. You can also cancel the plan online through the members portal.
What Happens When My Blink Subscription Ends?
Once your paid subscription plan expires, all existing recordings will be deleted from your cloud storage. After a while, you won’t get access to this data.
Conclusion
So, above is a detailed guide about Blink subscription plans, their features and their benefits. We hope you get detailed answers related to the topic. Remember, Blink has two subscription models for users: basic and premium. Both offer almost similar benefits except for the add-on facilities and costs. Users with multiple blink cameras should go for a plus plan, where they get unlimited access to their blink system. On the other hand, basic plans are suitable for a single-blink system and budget buyers. Talking about overall cost, a premium Blink subscription is best.
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