Skip to content
Vivint Authorized Retailer Amarillo
Smart Security Specialists -- Your Vivint Authorized Dealer Covering Amarillo & Surrounding Areas

Should you use a security camera with local storage?

September 28, 2026
Vivint Spotlight Camera Pro fastened to a home's exterior

Security cameras with local storage provide homeowners a variety of benefits. One major advantage is the chance to maintain control of your footage. Your recordings aren’t sent to the cloud. Rather, they’re stored directly on the camera or on a separate in-home device. Take a minute to compare your options and see where to get the top surveillance systems in Amarillo.

What’s the right choice for your Amarillo home? Explore how local and cloud storage differ

Check out the differences between local and cloud storage to determine the best security cameras for your Amarillo home. Here’s our quick breakdown:

Local storage cameras

  • Recordings are kept on the camera or local storage device, so you’re always in full control. 
  • You won’t have to stress about a third-party securing your video on remote servers.
  • Cameras can still record even if Wi-Fi or internet stops working.
  • There are no monthly subscription charges.
  • Save footage however long you need (depending on storage capacity).
  • Camera damage can result in loss of footage.
  • Hard drives and microSD cards incorporated into cameras may cost extra.

Cloud-based storage cameras

  • Footage is sent to cloud servers and safeguarded by a third party.
  • Video stay accessible if cameras are damaged.
  • Easy to scale to meet changing needs.
  • Extra storage hardware not necessary.
  • Typically comes with ongoing subscription costs.
  • Video can’t be uploaded to the cloud if you lose internet service.
  • Downloading and uploading video requires ample bandwidth.

If you want strict control over your video, no subscription fees, and the capability of recording without internet access, local storage is a good choice. Keep in mind that cloud-based systems can often retrieve videos faster when you’re not at home. 

Many families choose a hybrid plan that allows them to send local footage to the cloud. If the internet goes down, you may still record locally. If your system is damaged, you can still find your footage in the cloud.

Why Vivint is the smart choice for Amarillo surveillance systems

Vivint’s advanced surveillance cameras provide many possibilities with both local and cloud storage available. Flexibility is the name of the game, and you’ll enjoy it from the leader in Amarillo smart homes. You can even choose a hybrid configuration with cameras wired into your home’s electrical system and wirelessly linked to your security system. You enjoy a constant power source and the ability to mount cameras wherever you need them, without running wires all over your house.

You’ll have flexibility and robust security with outdoor cameras that proactively deter prowlers by using audible and visual warnings. You’ll also get wide viewing angles, night vision, and 4K video with zoom capabilities. Vivint’s cameras are simple to access in the Vivint app and work seamlessly with the rest of your smart home devices.

Equip your Amarillo smart home with Vivint’s industry-leading surveillance

Contact (806) 615-4222 today to customize your new Vivint smart home in Amarillo. Our helpful representatives are pleased to address any questions you have regarding cloud-based and local camera storage. We’ll help you determine a solution that offers unbeatable convenience and security.