ADT® Authorized Dealer Serving Scottsdale & The Surrounding Area
Homeowner watching surveillance streams on a tablet
May 18, 2026

What's Better: Local Or Cloud-Based Security Camera Storage?

Security cameras are a smart way to prevent intrusions, watch out for packages, and keep tabs on everything going on around your Scottsdale house. If you’re considering a home security plan with cameras, you will want to know about video storage. There are generally two choices: local and cloud storage. Learn about the benefits and downsides of each to find what’s best for your household.

What Is Local And Cloud Storage For Security Cameras?

Saving footage to the cloud means storing it on a secure remote server, usually in a facility operated by the camera manufacturer. Videos are protected by encryption and can only be retrieved through a password-protected account. Video is stored either as clips (10- to 30-second event-based clips) or in a longer recording.

Local storage means that video clips or extended recordings are saved to physical storage components within your home or directly to the camera. Like cloud options, video will be encrypted and accessed through the proper credentials.

What Home Security Camera Storage Option Is Best For Your Scottsdale Home? 

While many companies are shifting to cloud-based home security camera storage, the choice is yours. Review benefits and drawbacks of each.

Benefits Of Cloud-Based Storage

  • If something happens to your camera, the video is still available online.
  • Recordings are usually quick to retrieve and accessible from any location through a mobile app.
  • More affordable at the onset as you don’t need additional hardware.
  • Easy to adjust as storage needs evolve.

Cons Of Cloud-Based Storage

  • It usually requires a subscription.
  • If you lose internet access, the video can’t save to the cloud.
  • You are depending on third-party security measures.
  • Video downloads and uploads require sufficient bandwidth.

Pros Of Local Camera Storage

  • You retain total control of your video.
  • No monthly subscription costs.
  • Video can record when the internet is down.
  • Save recordings and clips as long as you want (depending on storage capacity).

Drawbacks Of Local Storage

  • Retrieving clips is frequently slower, specifically from remote locations.
  • Storage limits can be surprisingly low. Confirm before you buy.
  • Storage devices like hard drives and memory cards usually come at an extra cost.
  • There is a higher likelihood of losing footage if the camera is broken or stolen.

Google Nest Cameras With ADT Security In Scottsdale Is An Ideal Choice

If you’re interested in working with industry leaders and accessing your video quickly from wherever you are, look into an ADT plan with Google Nest cameras. When opting for a Google Nest video doorbell and outdoor cameras, you’ll receive a Nest Aware subscription at no added cost. This gives you 30 days of event-based cloud video storage. Step up to Nest Aware Plus and enjoy 60 days of event-based video history and 10 days of round-the-clock continuous recordings. Check with your installer for the latest pricing and available features. 

A standout feature of Google Nest outdoor cameras is how they can save an hour of footage locally during an internet outage. When you’re back online, video will save to the cloud.

Bolster Your Home Defense: Get An ADT Package With Video Cameras In Scottsdale

Effectively deter crime and access video footage from wherever you are with ADT home security in Scottsdale from Secure24 Alarm Systems. As your trusted ADT dealer, we connect you to the top surveillance options, including Google Nest cameras with secure cloud storage. Place a call to (480) 608-0061 today or complete our contact form to begin.

Try the Home Security Quote Quiz to Receive Personalized ADT Package Options