Storage issues are one of the most pivotal ones in any kind of security device.
Security cameras are utterly disappointing if they are not good at storing the recorded videos.
How would you check on the happenings? It will be like everything and nothing at a same time.
A security camera relies on its three main features and one should never compromise on these, they are
- Lens quality/picture quality
- Battery/ power source
- Motion detection
- Storage
If your security cameras not good at providing these basic features then it is not worth buying.
Here in this guide we will try to explore different security cameras that work with SD card storage.
We will look into various distinct features that would be enhancing the storage capacity of the cameras.
My Best Pick
Here is the Ultimate Winner that me and my expert staff recommends you to go for.
Types of security cameras that work with SD card
In market there are a number of security cameras, you might get confused.
Generally, security cameras are divided in the following categories regarding working with SD card as storage option. You can consider them in some more classes.
- Wired security cameras that work with SD card
- Wireless security cameras that work with SD card
- Cellular security camera that work with SD card
Both Wired and wireless security cameras can work with SD card. There is usually an application through which you will be controlling and getting the recorded video.
Comparison table of the top 5 SD/memory card security cameras
In a hurry?
If you quickly want to make a final decision for yourself regarding the 5 best ever security cameras that work with sd card or memory cards as their storage, then below we have compared our top 5 picks which are also reviewed in the later sections below.
For a more wise decision and proper knowledge,
Keep reading…!
Options for Security cameras regarding Storage
Storage is crucial for the efficient working of a security camera that is why we should make sure that the type of storage option is suitable for our need.
These are the most common type of security camera storage option.
- Cloud Storage
- Sd Card storage
In this blog we will only focus on the SD card before starting let us check what are the pros and cons of having a SD card compatible security camera for outdoor and indoor surveillance.
Advantages of using SD card as storage for Security cameras
Below are the major benefits when you sue Surveillance system that works with Sd card or memory cards as their storage option.
Safe recording
In local storage there is not a single chance of hacking. Your data will be secured, the data in SD cards can not be traced through internet.
Thus, these are more reliable and efficient as compared to Cloud storage.
I believe that for museums, offices and banks where there is a high risk of hacking. Hacked data can be used and erased.
If you are opting for local storage the intruders cannot alter the data in any way.
Cost effective
SD cards are not as much expensive as inbuilt storage or cloud storage, we all know that devices with internal storage are costly.
You can get as much memory cards as you need. The price of SD cards might vary depending on the capacity of the card.
You can buy SD cards according to your need, unlike cloud storage you are not bound to pay for an extra storage.
This makes it cost effective, you will not be worried about money and the price you will be paying for an SD card. Moreover, many security cameras come with SD cards.
Works without internet
Local storage does not rely on Wi-fi connection, does not matter if you have weak or no internet connection, your device will still record without any interruption, you can download and copy the data in your PC and laptops.
In case your security camera is not doing loop recording, you can use as much cards as you like or if you have got a single card you can erase or cut the data from the SD card and use the same card again for storing the data of your security camera.
Requires little power supply
If you are using local storage for securing your data then it can be the most efficient one.
For the local storage such as SD cards does not need extra power supply, on the other hand the cloud storage needs extra battery for working.
SD cards are a good option for battery powered security camera.
Removable and portable storage
Memory cards can be carried anywhere. You can take out the memory card and use it for sharing data whenever you want.
Although cloud storage can also be used as a portable storage option, but it will not work without the mobile phone application or the internet connection.
You can store as much SD cards for future use as you want there can be no limit.
SD cards are very tiny in size, they are approximately the size of your thumbnail. This means that they are every easy to carry, unlike the hard drives etc.
Down sides of SD cards as storage option for your Surveillance systems
Sd card storage are best for areas where there is no internet connection, there a number of limitations of local storage that can affect the usage and efficiency of the security cameras but these cons can be compensated if used with care and smartness.
Limited storage
The very first and the most prominent disadvantage of using Sd or memory card is the limited storage, a single memory card can record up to a limit.
You will have to change the card or you will have to erase the data.
A new technology has been taking up security cameras and that is loop recording, in case your camera does not have that feature then the Sd card can be a very awful experience for you.
Another thing you can do to solve this matter is storing the data in your hard drives that can be done through copying the data from your memory card.
Can be broken
Memory cards are not abstract, they are concrete objects and like any other material object there is a risk of breakage.
A simple scratch can sometimes lead to a very severe damage to the recorded data. Just as it was for compact disks and floppy disks.
Or if the Sd cards gets corrupted, the whole data will be vanished in seconds.
You will have to call a computer expert for getting your data back or it can be permanently lost.
Factors to look for while buying an SD card security camera
When you are looking for an Sd card security camera you must make sure that it is the best available product according to your budget.
Here, I have tried to concisely present the factors that will affect your choice while buying any kind of security camera having an Sd card storage.
Loop recording
The very first thing to look about the storage aspect is the format of recording.
Many a times, buyers get confused after knowing that the camera is compatible with a 128 Gb storage.
Many of us think that this storage would be enough and it is generally thought that a 128 Gb SD card will store in loop recording format.
Loop recording means that the previous data will be erased for accommodating the next recordings.
Loop recording is an alternative for unlimited recording. You can record as much as you can if your camera has got this feature.
Easy to install Sd cards
When we talk about easy installation we mean that every part of the camera will be fixed and installed with absolute ease.
Memory cards are the most crucial part while buying make sure that the inserting bracket for the memory card is suitable for normal SD cards.
This is important because if you will buy a security camera having a memory card jacket only designed for some specific SD cards then in case of emergency you will not be able to use your device.
A camera with maximum compatibility is the best camera.
Best quality videos and pictures
Security cameras are nearly useless if they do not capture high definition videos.
While purchasing any kind of security camera, try to make sure that the picture quality is beyond exceptional.
Blurry and unclear images can confuse you and it can be very risky for your security. This is why you must never ever compromise it.
Motion detection alerts
Next, a camera which will not inform you about the specific movements in the monitored area is a useless device.
You have to assure yourself about the motion detection aspect of your virtual security guard. Otherwise you can be in great danger.
Most of the Sd card spy cameras are designed to save the sections of recordings where there is some motion detection.
This is only possible when the motion detection sensors such as PIR sensors are highly sensitive and customizable.
While purchasing, try to get a camera which van be controlled through mobile application.
Power source
Power sources are the back bone and the support bank of the security camera.
If you are buying a security camera which works on battery power you must check the battery life.
It is advisable to get a battery powered Sd card cctv camera with a battery life of more than a week.
Otherwise, you will feel utterly annoyed by the frequent recharging of batteries.
In case you are sure that there will be no electricity outage you can opt for a wired security camera.
I suggest having a wired security camera only for indoor use.
Using a wired security camera can be risky because Rodents and other animals can break the wired connection.
Secondly, they are comparatively expensive.
Top 5 best Sd card security cameras
In this section we will see which are the most useful type of security cameras for this category, and which will provide the best storage option to its users in respect to SD cards.
It can be a time consuming read, but trust me it is worth it. In case you have not got much time you can just check on the table provided here.
Arlo Go Security camera
Speciality: Security cameras that works with 3G/4G LTE.
Many of us need to travel and change places. Specially, if you are living on rent and likely to change your house every year.
You can use this camera as it has got strong batteries with longer life and storage with backup systems.
You can just install it with in minutes. No need for calling an electrician as it would be installed just by following the guidelines given in the package.
Only thing you might be needing for installing this camera is the 4G/3G Sim that would be available at different franchises of telecommunication networks.
The best thing about this camera is it super flexible, you do not have to rely on electricity and Wi-fi connection either.
Your internet connection will rely on the batteries, and guess what this camera can be connected to a solar panel as well you can have that through amazon.
Motion detection feature is highly reliable because you can customize the recordings according to your needs.
It works with a micro SD card with 128 GB storage.
You can also use the cloud storage which will be free for the first few months, after that you will have to buy the subscription.
It is completely up to you, but if you would buy the cloud storage there is a high chance that it will cost you more that the local storage.
Moreover, it will be a risky affair if you have not got a private storage.
Lastly, the loop recording is the most reliable and cherished type of recording. If you do not know what is loop recording you can read from the start of this blog.
You can control and configure through the application, this means that you can have the updates and a complete control form anywhere where there is an internet connection.
Having motion detection alerts on your mobile phone is the most coolest thing regarding security cameras.
Features:
- Motion detection
On a slightest change of positions, your Arlo go will send alerts to your associated device, which can be your android.
This will be possible because of the motion detection sensors.
- 25ft night vision
Importance of night vision in a security camera can not be denied. It has got special sensors with 850nm lights for night vision.
You can clearly observe the ongoing events. So, if is it day or night you can totally rely on the security camera.
- 128GB Storage
As mentioned above, storage is most crucial. 120 GB is enough for storing more than 250 mins.
HD recordings can be viewed anywhere and anytime.
Another option is the cloud storage users can switch to cloud storage whenever needed, if you have not got any SD card available then you can subscribe to the cloud storage.
- Weather resistant
This feature makes it best for both outdoor and indoor use.
You do not have to worry about the rain and storms your camera is not just water proof it is resistant to heavy storms as well. The picture quality will not be distorted a bit.
- Loop storage
Loop storage is an essential feature. This is a source of unlimited storage. You do not have to worry about the storage once you have inserted a sd card in the camera.
PROS:
- Nice Motion detection.
- Quick Notification alerts.
- Easily works with ALEXA.
- Weather resistant.
- Two way audio.
- 4g/3g LTE connection.
- Lithium ion batteries.
CONS:
- Delay in notification sending.
Pyle outdoor security camera
Speciality: HD quality pictures and videos for perfect surveillance.
This device works with a super cool serene viewer app you will just have to download the application in your mobile phone, it works for both mobile systems.
It has got CMOS sensors which means that the image quality will be far beyond than exceptional.
You can have a clear and vivid video recording, record and configure videos. Store them or download them.
In case you do not want to get notifications when you are at home. You will just simply change the settings to auto record when ever you will be away.
You will not have to turn the video recording on, only thing that you would be doing is setting the time frame for auto record.
Not only with mobile phones, it will also work with PC and MAC as well. It is light weight, easy to install and mount. It is a wireless system so no need to call a technician for fixing up your camera.
The storage is quite reliable, loop recording with a 16 GB SD card is exceptional. There will be no interruption. You will have a full control in downloading and sharing the recorded video.
Automatic night vision feature is the most efficient feature you will read about today among these security cameras. Automatic night vision is heaven for people like me, who are in a bad habit of forgetting things.
Anyways, when it will be dark, the illuminator sensors for infrared vision will immediately start working so that the surveillance system must work 24/7.
The 720p HD video quality is for having a clear and vivid view of the monitored areas. with 30 frames per second there is not a slightest risk of missing anything coming under that super efficient camera.
The packaging is so satisfying as it has got every reliable and required accessory for mounting up the cameras, the power and ethernet cable.
It is a PoE surveillance camera which means a single wire will serve the purpose of both internet and power.
Features:
- 720p HD quality
The CMOS sensors and 30fms feature provides the best image and video quality that you can never resist.
Image quality is one of the most important feature and this PoE IP security camera can be one of the best surveillance system in regard of picture and video quality.
- Weather resistant
It has got the marine grade weather resistance.
- Loop recording and 16Gb storage
Loop recording is an alternative form of unlimited storage. It is more reliable and safe than cloud storage.
- Night vision up to 32ft
Your surveillance camera can look up to 32ft at night with the help of excellent light vision sensors, that will automatically illuminate the image and videos at night.
This means that you will not have to worry about the control of this exceptional feature, it is surely going to make your life easy.
- Weatherproof
There can be times when you will want to change the location of your security camera, you might need it in an open space, here the weather resistant feature will make your surveillance system a pro.
PROS:
- Easy to install.
- Works well with application.
- Reliable storage.
- Good Backup options.
- Can be used both Outdoors/indoors.
- Notification alerts.
- Automatic night vision.
- Vivid videos.
- Selected and configurable video recordings.
CONS:
- Ethernet cable can make it a restricted system.
Wansview outdoor/indoor security camera
Speciality: Works with a base station that can handle up to four cameras simultaneously.
Now this is the wireless security camera that will be working along with its base station.
Many of us do not know what is a base station, so to cut it short just imagine that base station is another modem that will control your camera and will handle the affairs of communication such as network connection etc.
This base station will connect the camera to a Wi-fi connection, you can store data even if there is no Wi-fi connection but at that time there will be no updates at your cell phone.
You can check the recorded videos later, like cloud storage that only works while there is an internet connection.
I installed this camera for my sister’s friend and the most amazing thing we found out that there are no subscription charges for the application, you can use the amazing features for play back and back up whenever you want to without paying a single penny.
The customer care service is so nice and supportive.
Although it is very easy to install but many users will have trouble in connecting the camera with the base station or the base station with the Wi-fi connection.
So, in case you are looking up to call a technician go for the customer support service and you will be able to mount the camera on your won.
Lastly, the night vision is exceptional, you will not miss a single detail during night.
The only problem will be of turning it on during night, the weather proof technology makes it an exceptional choice for an outdoor camera.
This means that you can use it for your office and house surveillance or for both.
Features:
- Motion detection
The PIR sensors are exceptional and very sensitive. A single motion will not be missed and your camera will tell you about each and every moment.
There will be alerts that will instantly inform you.
- 25ft Night vision
The infrared sensors make it quite a spy camera, that will help you check your surroundings even in dark.
So, whether it is late at night a burglar would not dare to enter our place without you getting a notification.
- Two rechargeable batteries
The long battery life is another perk of the exceptional camera. They are built in, you can connect and use more powerful batteries.
With a longer battery life your camera can work for 8 months without any kind of interruption. Power outages will not be a problem now.
- Two way audio
The two audio is the most needed feature specially if you are mounting a camera at your home, or in your office.
Many people can use this feature for giving instruction to their kids, workers and employees.
- Water proof
It has got the IP66 technology which makes it water and weather proof. It can stand rain and storms as well.
This means you can use it as an outdoor surveillance system without any problem.
- Clear view
You can have a crystal clear video quality through this excellent outdoor/indoor security camera.
It has got 110 wide angle lens, which will make sure that your camera is capturing each and everything with vivid picture and video quality.
PROS:
- Easy installation.
- Compatible with applications.
- Weather resistant.
- Wireless camera.
- HD quality.
- Long battery life.
- Unlimited storage.
- Loop storage.
- Two way power, batter/ electricity.
CONS:
- App upgradation might annoy.
Soliom solar powered Sd card security camera
Speciality: Two types of storage options, both SD card and cloud storage.
The motion detection feature is exceptional. It can detect motion faster than the usual cameras available in the market.
Whenever there will be some motion the camera will instantly send notification to your mobile phone.
The amazing part is you can adjust the sensitivity according to your need. Like I don’t want to get a 1000 notifications a day when I am at home so I change the settings from highly sensitive to low sensitivity.
This camera is super easy to install.
Why so?
The because the package has got all the necessary tools with it. All you have to do is to select an area where you want to fix your security camera, read the instruction given in the guide.
While installing make sure that you are not installing your camera away from your Wi-fi modem, so that your camera might receive high potential internet connection, another thing to look out is the height of the camera, place it 8ft above the ground. This is for maximum absorption of sunlight.
Here is another perk, the camera has got its own inbuilt batteries but for longer battery life this solar panel is more than exceptional.
Also, as it is a solar powered security camera, the solar panel will charge up to 150mh per hour, this means that there will be an unlimited power supply to your surveillance system. During rainy day or cloudy weather, the charge efficiency can be reduced to 100 mAh.
The picture quality is excellent, 160 degrees wide angle lens will ensure that your camera is performing as a pro.
You are getting a clear view of the area. The objects are vivid and noticeable, blurry scenes can be a problem when you are having a camera for surveillance system.
Similarly, night vision is very reliable. It can check up to 42ft, which means your entire neighborhood will be under your observation even during night.
Features:
- Motion detection
With two types of sensors it provides the best motion detection feature. You can change the sensitivity whenever you want, the alerts and notifications will keep you updated 24/7.
- Night vision up to 42ft
The excellent and efficient infrared lights will provide the best night vision. You can for 42ft. It means that night surveillance is not an issue.
A clear and vivid picture quality is all what users need for a security system.
- 1080p HD resolution
Crystal clear video quality, with 160 degrees wide angle lens, will make sure that the users are not missing anything.
The motion detection feature completely relies on the image and video quality. Otherwise the camera will not be able to detect any kind of motion.
- 4000 mAh battery with solar panels
the batteries are rechargeable, and the attached solar panels are for unlimited power supply, this means that once you have installed the camera you do not have to worry about recharging.
The solar panel can charge up to 150 mAh on daily basis.
- Weather resistant
The entire system is weather proof, you can use it even in rainy days without any kind of issues, the performance will not be distorted.
The picture quality because of the IP65 weather resistant technology.
- Unlimited storage
There are two options for storage, you can either insert micro SD card or you can opt for cloud storage. This means that the space will be unlimited and highly reliable.
PROS:
- Easy to install.
- Unlimited battery life.
- Outdoor/indoor cam.
- Cloud and SD card storage.
- Clear pictures and videos.
- Configurable control.
- Application compatible.
- Wireless system.
CONS:
- Requires strong Wi-fi connection.
ANRAN security cameras
Speciality: 64 GB TF card storage with NVR systems.
There is a multiple range of storage option in this security camera. You can either have the TF systems, the NVR or the micro SD card of up to 128 GB.
It is a bit tricky to use this camera, you will get a 9 inches LED for configuring and controlling your security cameras.
You will have a clear picture with excellent and the most sensitive PIR sensors that would detect every extra motion happening in the monitored area.
The 110 degrees wide lens is an guarantee of capturing each detail, the 2D display will not miss any object, the proportion of objects in the video and the picture will be satisfying.
I myself I have tried this set for an office use and found it very reliable and user friendly.
It is a completely wireless system, thus it is very easy to install. The battery powered cameras are very reliable in terms of power supply, the batteries can work for almost more than a week.
They are rechargeable and you can change them every weekend as there are two of them in a single package for each camera.
The NVR system is for supporting the huge bulk of data, if you do not want to hold the huge NVR system you can simply switch to micro SD or TF cards for storing videos and pictures. It has got 8 IR lights to ensure 25ft night vision.
So, anybody can rely on it without any fear of missing out any slightest motion.
Many people confuse the screen with the application compatible feature, here is another twist.
You can sue this camera through your mobile application as well, LED is only for better surveillance and security.
Like other smartphone application compatible security cameras, after installing the camera you will have to download the application and scan the QR code of the cam.
The two way audio is exceptional, you can send your messages through your mobile application, may be it can be an alternative of whatsapp or messenger when your kids do not have any mobile device with them.
Features:
- NVR LCD monitor
You can check the ongoing events with greater picture quality with exceptional NVR screen, you can operate and configure the security camera through the LCD.
This is not instant control but the quality will be more clear and vivid than the mobile applications.
- Night vision
The 8 IR lights, which can detect any kind of motion in dark. This system is highly suitable for outdoor surveillance with 25 ft night vision you can check up to the third house neighboring you, and that is enough for a house surveillance.
- PIR Sensors
PIR sensors work with great sensitivity, the motion detection even of a pet can send notification alerts to you.
In case you do not like the mobile notification alerts you can change the settings to email notification.
- 128 GB storage
You can store as much data as you can because there are many alternative options for storing the videos.
It can support a 128Gb micro sd card and a 64 GB TF card as well. Choosing the best option for your security camera is totally up to the user.
- HD view and wide angle
With a 110 degrees wide angle, clear picture and video is a permanent thing by these two cameras.
You do not have to worry about picture quality once the camera is installed there is no chance of blurred and dark pictures or videos.
- 8600 mAh battery
The batteries are rechargeable and a single battery can work for almost 2 weeks, you will not have to worry about the power supply, the best part is you can change the battery size according to your need but you will have to buy some separately.
PROS:
- Weather resistant.
- Longer battery life.
- Crystal clear view.
- Sensitive motion detection.
- Unlimited storage.
- Clear surveillance.
- Good Night vision.
CONS:
- NVR works manually it will not connect automatically.
Last words
In this blog you came across the advantages and limitations of memory cards for security cameras, you find out that how to format a memory card, in this section I will just give a few advices the buyers must keep in mind while purchasing a security camera with a SD card.
These are that the camera must have loop recording. It must have a warranty of 1 year or more. Its battery must work for more than a week.
Check more of our recommended amazing SD card surveillance cameras below
- Ideal for dash cams and home monitoring systems
- Designed for high endurance so you can record for up to 20,000 hours with no worries (Actual hours of video saved less; Up to 20,000 hours for 256GB; 10,000 hours for 128GB; 5,000 hours for 64GB; and 2,500 hours for 32GB)
- [Full HD] Read/Write up to 90/30 MB/s. Full HD video displaying/recording, Share your beautiful memories in high resolution images.
- [Memory Secured] Come with a SD adapter and mini case. Capture, cherish and well-store all the best moments.
- OUTDOOR SECURITY CAMERA: The PhoenixM2 wireless outdoor security camera combines ease of use with a professional-quality video to secure your home.
- NIGHT-VISION SECURITY CAMERA: These cameras are equipped with long-range, automatic infrared night vision.
- [4K Ultra HD] Read/Write up to 95/40 MB/s. 4K Ultra HD video displaying/recording
- [Compatibility] Storage for Camera, Security Camera, Action Camera, Sports Camera, Laptop, Tablet, PC, Smartphones.
The picture quality must be HD and the motion detection feature must be supported with highly sensitive sensors.
If these four points are being matched, you must buy that security camera. Secondly, there are lot of people who would prefer low price over quality.
I am no one to tell them what should they do but in case of security cameras you ought to buy high quality cameras otherwise your own life can be on a great risk.
Happy shopping!
Last update on 2022-06-20 at 22:46